5 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Big Five Safari

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide. After a short briefing, depart Kigali and enjoy a scenic drive north through Rwanda’s lush countryside, earning its name as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Arrive in Volcanoes National Park, check in to your lodge, and spend the afternoon at leisure. Optional activities include a cultural village visit or a relaxed nature walk around the lodge as you prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Overnight: Near Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Today is the highlight of your Rwanda safari—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, transfer to park headquarters for a briefing by Rwanda Development Board rangers before heading into the forest to track a habituated gorilla family.

The trek can take between 1–6 hours depending on gorilla movements, but the reward is extraordinary: one magical hour spent observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Witness their social interactions, playful juveniles, and commanding silverbacks in an intimate, life-changing encounter.

Return to the lodge for relaxation and reflection after this unforgettable experience.

Overnight: Near Volcanoes National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, depart Volcanoes National Park and drive eastwards across Rwanda to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier Big Five destination. This scenic journey highlights the country’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic highlands to rolling savannah.

Arrive in Akagera in time for an afternoon game drive, where you may encounter elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species. Lions and rhinos are also present, marking Akagera’s successful conservation revival.

Overnight: Akagera National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin the day with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators such as lions and leopards as they return from nocturnal hunts. Explore different habitats including open plains, woodlands, and wetlands.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema, home to hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. This water-based safari offers a peaceful contrast to game drives and excellent photography opportunities.

Overnight: Akagera National Park
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checking out and driving back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, optional activities can include a Kigali Genocide Memorial visit or last-minute souvenir shopping.

You will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your 4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkey Safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast