9 Days Rwanda Safari Experience

Arrival at Kigali Airport and Hotel Check-In

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, guests are warmly welcomed by Otter African Safaris’ safari representative. The first impressions of Rwanda are instantly captivating: lush green hillsides, terraced slopes, and the harmonious rhythm of a country celebrated as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” After a smooth airport pickup, travelers are transferred to Chez Lando Hotel, a comfortable and convenient base located near the heart of Kigali.

The remainder of the day is dedicated to relaxation. Depending on arrival time, guests may take a gentle stroll through the hotel gardens, enjoy an afternoon refreshment, or settle into their rooms for some much-needed rest. Kigali serves as the perfect starting point—it combines tranquility with accessibility and introduces visitors to Rwanda’s warm hospitality.

This first day also provides an opportunity to prepare mentally and physically for the days ahead. Guests can meet with their safari guide to review the itinerary, discuss important safari highlights, and ensure all essentials for gorilla trekking and other adventures are in order. A delicious dinner is served at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring a combination of Rwandan dishes and international cuisine.

The evening remains unhurried, offering a chance to unwind after the journey and anticipate the adventures awaiting in Akagera, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe. This initial night establishes a balance of comfort and excitement, ensuring guests are well-rested for the next day’s activities.

• Accommodation: Chez Lando Hotel
• Meal Plan: Half Board

Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Akagera National Park

The second day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, followed by a guided Kigali City tour. Kigali is a city that embodies resilience, growth, and harmony. Visitors explore landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where history is honored through education and remembrance. The vibrant Kimironko Market introduces daily life, fresh produce, and Rwandan craftsmanship, while the Kigali Convention Centre demonstrates Rwanda’s progress as a modern hub.

After the half-day city exploration, guests enjoy a freshly prepared lunch in Kigali before beginning the scenic drive to Akagera National Park. The landscape shifts dramatically as the road winds from rolling hills into expansive savannah plains. Akagera is Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—making it a thrilling complement to the forested parks that will follow.

Upon arrival, guests check into Akagera Rhino Lodge, nestled close to the park. The lodge offers sweeping views of the surrounding plains and provides a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere. In the evening, guests can relax on the terrace as the sun sets over Akagera, painting the skies in orange and gold.

Dinner at the lodge closes the day, accompanied by the distant sounds of nature, promising the wildlife-rich adventures to come.

• Accommodation: Akagera Rhino Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Game Drives, Nature Walks, and Sunset Boat Cruise in Akagera

Day three is dedicated to the wonders of Akagera National Park. After an early breakfast, guests set off on a morning game drive led by an experienced guide. The park’s ecosystem includes open plains, woodland, lakes, and swamps, creating habitats for diverse wildlife. Encounters may include herds of elephants grazing, prides of lions basking in the sun, giraffes gracefully moving across the savannah, and antelope species like impalas and topis.

The game drive continues through different park zones, each offering unique sightings. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate Akagera’s birdlife, with over 480 species recorded, including the elusive shoebill stork. Midday offers a pause for lunch and relaxation at the lodge, followed by optional guided nature walks for those interested in learning about smaller fauna, flora, and ecosystems.

In the late afternoon, the safari takes to the water with a boat cruise on Lake Ihema. This activity provides a different perspective on Akagera’s wildlife. Hippos wallow in groups, crocodiles patrol the shores, and elephants often come to drink. The waters are alive with birdlife, from African fish eagles to kingfishers. The sunset adds a magical touch, with reflections dancing on the lake’s surface.

Returning to the lodge, guests enjoy a warm dinner while reflecting on a day of adventure and discovery.

• Accommodation: Akagera Rhino Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Transfer to Volcanoes National Park via Kigali

After breakfast, guests bid farewell to Akagera and embark on a road transfer to Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. The journey passes back through Kigali, where guests stop for a leisurely lunch before continuing into the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. The scenery transitions from rolling countryside into steep, volcanic slopes dotted with traditional villages and terraced farms.

Volcanoes National Park, part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, is renowned as one of the last remaining sanctuaries for mountain gorillas. On arrival, guests check into Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, a charming eco-lodge offering comfort and breathtaking views of the volcanoes. The rest of the day is dedicated to relaxation, allowing guests to prepare for the highly anticipated gorilla trek.

The lodge offers cozy fireplaces, private cottages, and warm hospitality. Guests may choose to spend the evening enjoying the serene surroundings, reviewing trekking guidelines with their guide, or capturing photographs of the stunning mountain backdrop.

Dinner is served in the lodge’s restaurant, offering both international and local flavors. With excitement building for the gorilla encounter, guests retire for an early night, ready for the next day’s adventure.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Golden Monkey Tracking and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit

Day five begins with a hearty breakfast before guests set out for golden monkey tracking within Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates, endemic to the Virunga region, live in bamboo forests at the park’s base. Guided by park rangers, guests follow trails into the forest where troops of golden monkeys leap between trees, their golden-orange fur shimmering in the light. The experience offers close encounters and excellent photography opportunities.

After the morning activity, guests return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, the itinerary shifts focus to conservation with a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This research and conservation center honors the legacy of Dian Fossey, whose groundbreaking work helped save the endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors learn about ongoing efforts in gorilla conservation, anti-poaching strategies, and community involvement.

This day provides a balance between thrilling wildlife encounters and meaningful education about conservation. By evening, guests return to Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge for dinner and relaxation, with the excitement of gorilla trekking awaiting the next morning.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Gisenyi

Day six is the highlight of the safari: mountain gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, guests gather at the park headquarters for a briefing. Groups are assigned based on trekking ability and allocated to specific gorilla families. Accompanied by skilled trackers and rangers, guests set off into the forest. The trek can last between one and several hours, depending on the gorillas’ location.

The moment of encounter is unforgettable. Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat provides a deep emotional connection. Guests spend up to one hour with the gorillas, watching family interactions, playful juveniles, and the dominance of the silverback.

After trekking, guests return to the lodge for lunch before transferring to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. The journey takes about two hours, passing through lush landscapes and rural communities. In the evening, guests enjoy a sunset boat cruise on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The cruise offers panoramic views, local fishing activities, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Guests overnight at Paradise Marahide Hotel, a lakeside retreat that combines tranquility with beautiful vistas.

• Accommodation: Paradise Marahide Hotel
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Lake Kivu Exploration and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

The morning begins with an exploration of Lake Kivu’s shores. Guests may take a leisurely walk along the beaches, observe fishing villages, or enjoy a short canoe excursion. Lake Kivu’s calm waters and surrounding hills provide a serene contrast to the intensity of primate trekking.

By midday, guests depart for Nyungwe Forest National Park, a journey of several hours through southwestern Rwanda’s scenic landscapes. En route, rolling tea plantations, winding roads, and vibrant villages showcase Rwanda’s agricultural richness and cultural charm. Lunch is enjoyed along the way before arriving at Nyungwe Top Hill View Lodge.

The lodge, perched on a ridge, offers sweeping views of the forest and surrounding valleys. Upon arrival, guests check in and settle into the peaceful environment. The evening is reserved for relaxation and preparation for chimpanzee trekking. Dinner is served at the lodge, with local and international options to satisfy every palate.

This day marks the transition into one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot.

• Accommodation: Nyungwe Top Hill View Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk in Nyungwe

Day eight offers two unforgettable experiences within Nyungwe Forest National Park. The morning begins with chimpanzee tracking. Guests wake early for breakfast before heading into the forest with trained trackers. The trek leads through dense vegetation, alive with birdsong and the rustle of primates. Once the chimpanzees are located, guests spend time observing their behaviors—grooming, feeding, and moving through the trees. The experience highlights the intelligence and social dynamics of our closest relatives.

After returning to the lodge for lunch and rest, the afternoon brings the famous Nyungwe canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, the walkway offers panoramic views of the forest canopy and beyond. It is both thrilling and educational, revealing layers of biodiversity, from butterflies and orchids to monkeys and birds.

By evening, guests return to the lodge for dinner and a final night in Nyungwe. The day balances adventure, education, and awe, cementing Nyungwe as a unique highlight of the safari.

• Accommodation: Nyungwe Top Hill View Lodge
• Meal Plan: Full Board

Return to Kigali and Departure

On the final day, guests enjoy breakfast at the lodge before beginning the return journey to Kigali. The road winds through scenic hills, tea plantations, and charming villages. Depending on flight schedules, guests may enjoy a short city tour in Kigali, including artisan markets or craft centers for souvenir shopping.

The safari concludes with a drop-off at Kigali International Airport for departure. Guests leave Rwanda with a treasure of memories—game drives, boat safaris, gorilla encounters, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural experiences—all woven together by Otter African Safaris’ professional guidance and seamless planning.

• Accommodation: None
• Meal Plan: Half Board