Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park Access the chimps-rich habitat of Nyungwe Enjoy an exclusive use area of the park from Magashi Camp Experience unforgettable gorilla encounters at Volcanoes National Park

Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip All internal flights and transfers Chimpanzee and gorilla tracking permits Luxury, sustainable accommodation throughou

Best Of Rwandas National Parks

Welcome to Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” where vibrant landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a compelling cultural heritage converge to create an enchanting travel experience. Rwanda, nestled in the heart of East Africa, has emerged as a must-visit destination, offering a blend of natural wonders and historical significance.

1. Volcanoes National Park: Embark on a journey to the Volcanoes National Park, a haven for the endangered mountain gorillas. Trek through the misty forests to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat, forging a powerful and intimate connection with one of humanity’s closest relatives.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park: Explore the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe, a biodiversity hotspot that harbors an array of primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Canopy walks and hiking trails provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of this lush wilderness.

3. Lake Kivu: Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The lake’s shores offer serene landscapes, bustling fishing villages, and a range of water activities. Relax on the beaches, explore nearby islands, and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

4. Akagera National Park: Experience the savannah landscapes of Akagera National Park, where diverse ecosystems host a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Game drives and boat safaris along the Akagera River provide a glimpse into the natural splendor of this rejuvenated national park.

5. Kigali, the Capital City: Explore the vibrant capital city of Kigali, a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and progress. Discover the Kigali Genocide Memorial, visit local markets, and savor the city’s cultural and culinary offerings. Kigali’s clean and orderly streets reflect the nation’s commitment to sustainable development.

Rwanda’s top travel destinations invite you to witness the harmonious coexistence of nature and culture. Whether trekking through the misty mountains, encountering primates in dense forests, or exploring vibrant cities, Rwanda promises a journey filled with warmth, beauty, and a profound connection to its remarkable landscapes. Murakaza neza! (Welcome!) 🇷🇼✨

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

At a glance

On this expedition, you get to experience Rwanda‘s finest national parks. Of the many once-in-a-lifetime experiences on your itinerary, you will be able to come up close with endangered mountain gorillas, go chimpanzee trekking and stay in some of the region’s most luxurious lodges. Keep your binoculars in hand and discover one of Africa’s most genuine hidden gems!

You begin in Kigali – Rwanda’s capital city. Kigali is emerging as one of Africa’s hippest destinations with a thriving art scene. This is also where you get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle.

From here, you will enjoy a helicopter transfer to your next stop – Akagera National Park. On this exclusive experience, you get to witness Africa’s highest hippo density, large crocodiles, as well as a variety of bird species. Prepare for a scene that will blow you away as the reserve is also home to a healthy population of lions, as well as black rhino and leopards.

Board for your next adventure as you set foot in Nyungwe for even more incredible sights. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, the mountainous region also serves as an untamed habitat for chimpanzees, as well as other species of primates. You’ll also get to visit a tea plantation to learn about the world-class tea made here.

The final (and most awaited) stop – the thick jungles of Volcanoes National Park, where you go on treks in search of gorillas. You will also get to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Other outdoor activities include trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike.

This expedition to Rwanda’s national parks can be specially crafted to suit your interests, creating a memorable trip for everyone.

Example trip itinerary

DAYS 1-3: KIGALI
DAYS 3-6: AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
DAYS 6-8: NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK
DAYS 8-10: VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Day 1 :

Kigali City Tour Kigali City Tour

Flights & transfers Transfer Private transfer to your hotel in Kigali

Day 2 :

Day 3 :

Days in Akagera National Park

Flights & transfers Transfer Private transfer to Kigali airport Transfer Helicopter transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, some very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera now also boasts a healthy population of lion, which were reintroduced into the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhino which were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard.

Day 4 :

Day 5 :

Day 6 :

Days on safari at Nyungwe National Park

Flights & transfers Transfer Helicopter transfer from Akagera National Park to Nyungwe Spend your days here at Nyungwe National Park on exciting safari tours, discovering this lush, ancient land. Explore the famous forest canopy, East Africa's only canopy walk, getting up-close to the impressive birdlife and myriad of resident primates as you wander above the treetops for a bird's eye view of forest life. Visit a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here and go chimp trekking in nearby Cyamudongo Forest. Then, delve deep into Nyungwe forest on hiking trails to discover the numerous Albertine Rift endemics and the largest troop of Black and White Colobus found anywhere in Africa.

Day 7 :

Chimp Trekking Tour in Nyungwe

This morning you will be collected from your lodge early for your chimp trekking tour nearby Cyamudongo Forest. After approximately an hour's journey, you will arrive at this small forest which was historically connected to Nyungwe. Here you will meet the resident habituated chimpanzee group before visiting a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here.

Day 8 :

Days exploring Volcanoes National Park

Flights & transfers Transfer Helicopter transfer from Nyungwe National Park to Volcanoes National Park Spend your days here in the magnificent Volcanoes National Park tracking the rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas with expert guides and trackers. In Rwanda there are 10 habituated gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, with a maximum of 8 tracking permits per group per day. Other activities to enjoy whilst in this magical terrain are; trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike. Speak to your travel designer about how you wish to spend your time here.

Day 9 :

Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy close personal encounters with Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The forested slopes of the Virunga massif – a chain of ancient volcanoes – are home to over half the world’s 880 remaining gorillas. There are, in total, 10 habituated groups available for tracking by tourists in Volcanoes National Park, and each morning eight permit holders are allocated one group. You will hike to the spot where your gorilla family was last seen the previous day. All tracker guides are experienced in looking for signs of the gorillas’ location, for example, footprints, dung, chewed bamboo and celery stalks, as well as nightly abandoned nests. Once the gorillas are located, probably smelling them before seeing them, the group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with the family. You are likely to reach their location during their long midday rest and play period. At this time of day, the dominant male (usually a silverback) generally lounges on the ground or against a tree while youngsters roll in the vegetation and climb on trees, vines, and each other. Females nurse and play with their infants. It is entirely possible that you will find the gorillas quite quickly and be back at your hotel for lunch; or you could face a three or four hour hike (sometimes even longer) each way.

Day 10 :

Flights & transfers

Transfer Helicopter transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali