While Rwanda is world-famous for gorilla trekking, our 7-Day Wildlife & Culture Safari reveals the nation’s incredible diversity. This journey is crafted for those who want to see it all, from the vibrant urban renewal of Kigali to the “Big Five” savannas of Akagera National Park and the serene, beach-like shores of Lake Kivu. You will trace Rwanda’s complex history, search for lions and rhinos on thrilling game drives, and unwind by the tranquil waters of one of Africa’s Great Lakes.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Trip Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” showcasing its resilient people, thriving wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It’s a perfect standalone journey or an amazing extension to your primate safari in Volcanoes National Park. Let Rwanda Gorilla Quest introduce you to the other side of Rwanda, where savanna wildlife and lakeside leisure create unforgettable memories.

Trip Highlight

Two nights at a premium safari lodge in Akagera National Park
Full-day and morning game drives to seek out the "Big Five"
A thrilling boat cruise on Lake Ihema, home to hippos, Nile crocodiles, and rich birdlife
An in-depth, guided Kigali city tour visiting the Genocide Memorial, Kandt House, and CND Museum
Adventure and stunning views at Fazenda Sengha on Mount Kigali
Relaxation and exploration on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi (Rubavu)
All-inclusive 4x4 safari vehicle with an expert Rwanda Gorilla Quest driver-guide

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kigali

Welcome to Rwanda! Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport (KGL), your professional Rwanda Gorilla Quest driver-guide will greet you with a warm welcome to the "Land of a Thousand Hills." You will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and a well-deserved rest. Depending on your arrival time, your guide will provide a briefing on the incredible 7-day safari ahead of you. (Overnight: Hotel des Mille Collines / Lemigo Hotel) (Meals: Dinner)

Day 2 :

Kigali City Tour & Mount Kigali Adventure

After breakfast, you'll embark on a full-day exploration of Kigali, a city that stands as a testament to Rwanda's resilience. You'll start with a moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful tribute to the victims and a profound educational experience. Next, you'll trace the city's history at the Kandt House Museum (Richard Kandt's former home) and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum (CND). After lunch, you will head to Mount Kigali for adventure and panoramic views at Fazenda Sengha. Here, you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, zip-lining, or archery while overlooking the entire city. (Overnight: Hotel des Mille Collines / Lemigo Hotel) (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3 :

Transfer to Akagera NP & Lake Ihema Boat Cruise

Enjoy an early breakfast before heading east on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only "Big Five" savanna reserve. After checking into your lodge, you'll have lunch and a brief rest before embarking on an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema. This is a spectacular opportunity to spot large pods of hippos, giant Nile crocodiles basking on the shores, and a stunning variety of water birds, from cormorants and fish eagles to the iconic African darter. You'll return to your lodge for dinner as the sun sets over the savanna. (Overnight: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge) (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4 :

Full-Day "Big Five" Game Drive in Akagera

Today is dedicated to a full-day game drive, exploring Akagera's diverse landscapes. You will drive from the park's south, with its lakes and forests, to the sweeping northern plains. Your guide will help you search for the "Big Five": lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and (if you're lucky) the elusive leopard. The park is also home to giraffes, zebras, roan antelope, warthogs, and hundreds of bird species. You'll enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views before continuing your safari, returning to your lodge in the late afternoon. (Overnight: Akagera Game Lodge / Ruzizi Tented Lodge) (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5 :

Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)

You'll start with one final morning game drive to catch the savanna wildlife at its most active. After, you'll exit the park and begin the scenic cross-country journey to Rubavu (formerly Gisenyi), a beautiful town on the northern shore of Lake Kivu. This 5-6 hour drive showcases the "thousand hills" of Rwanda, passing through villages and lush agricultural areas. You will arrive in the late afternoon, check into your lakeside hotel, and have the evening free to relax and enjoy the peaceful breeze. (Overnight: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel / Paradise Malahide) (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6 :

Lake Kivu Exploration & Return to Kigali

Wake up to stunning views of Lake Kivu. This morning is for relaxation and exploration. You can visit the natural Nyamyumba Hot Springs, believed to have therapeutic properties, or see the unique sight of traditional fishing boats lined up on the shore. You'll also see the "border" with Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a bustling and vibrant crossing. After an early lunch, you will begin the scenic 3-4 hour drive back to Kigali, where you will check into your hotel for your final evening. (Overnight: Hotel des Mille Collines / Lemigo Hotel) (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7 :

Kimironko Market & Departure

Enjoy a final Rwandan breakfast at your hotel. If time permits before your flight, your guide will take you to Kimironko Market, Kigali's largest and most vibrant market. This is the perfect place to shop for local crafts, colorful fabrics, and handmade souvenirs to remember your journey. Afterward, your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport (KGL) in time for your departure, filled with incredible memories of your Rwandan wildlife and cultural safari. (Meals: Breakfast)