8 Day Rwanda Wildlife & Heritage Safari

8 Days

7 Nights

Weekly Departures Available

Tour Cost
Prices on request

overview

This 8-days safari offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, cultural heritage, and scenic lake retreats. The adventure begins with a thrilling safari in Akagera National Park, where you’ll witness Rwanda’s Big Five and diverse landscapes. The journey continues with visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Murambi Genocide Memorial, offering a deep insight into Rwanda’s history. The final leg of the tour takes you to Lake Kivu, where you’ll unwind by the tranquil waters and explore the lakeside beauty.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park

Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your guide. After a warm welcome, begin your journey to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda, known for its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife. On your way, enjoy a relaxing drive through Rwanda’s lush countryside, offering stunning views of the rolling hills and rural villages. Upon arrival at your lodge near the park, settle in and prepare for the exciting wildlife encounters ahead. Enjoy dinner at the lodge and reflect on your first day in Rwanda.

Accommodation Options: Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, or Magashi Camp.

Day 2:
Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Start your day early with a morning game drive in Akagera National Park, which is home to Rwanda’s Big Five: elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The park also offers sightings of other wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and hippos, as well as over 500 bird species. As you drive through the park’s varied landscapes—from savannahs to wetlands—you will be immersed in the beauty and diversity of the park. After a lunch break, embark on an afternoon boat ride on Lake Ihema, where you can witness wildlife from the water, including crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species. The scenic beauty of the lake surrounded by the park’s wilderness is an experience to remember. Return to your lodge in the evening for a relaxing dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Accommodation Options: Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, or Magashi Camp.

Day 3:
Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Kigali

After an early breakfast, enjoy a final game drive through Akagera National Park. The early morning is an excellent time for wildlife sightings, as many animals are more active during the cooler hours. Following the game drive, begin your journey back to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and have some time to relax before the afternoon’s cultural exploration. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Kigali’s local restaurants, offering a variety of traditional Rwandan dishes.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali, or Hotel des Mille Collines.

Day 4:
Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial

Start the day with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving and educational site that honors the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The memorial provides a powerful and poignant insight into the tragic events of the past and Rwanda’s journey toward reconciliation and healing. Following your visit to the memorial, explore the city of Kigali with a guided tour, including the Kimironko Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local crafts and souvenirs. You may also visit Kigali’s Art Galleries to appreciate contemporary Rwandan art. After lunch, enjoy a relaxed afternoon, with the option to visit the Inema Art Center or explore Kigali’s vibrant culinary scene.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel Kigali, or Hotel des Mille Collines.

Day 5:
Visit to Murambi Genocide Memorial and Transfer to Lake Kivu

Today, take a half-day excursion to the Murambi Genocide Memorial, located in southern Rwanda. This memorial is one of the most significant sites for learning about the genocide and offers a detailed, respectful account of the events that unfolded. It’s an emotional visit, offering a chance to understand the depth of Rwanda’s history and the resilience of its people. After the visit, drive to Lake Kivu, a beautiful and serene destination located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The drive to the lake is scenic, with lush hills surrounding the calm waters. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside accommodation and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Paradis Malahide, or Kivu Lodge.

Day 6:
Relaxation and Boat Tour on Lake Kivu

Spend the day relaxing by the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most stunning and tranquil lakes. You can enjoy leisure activities such as kayaking, swimming, or simply unwinding on the beach. The surrounding hills and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation. In the afternoon, take a boat tour of Lake Kivu. The boat ride offers the opportunity to explore the lake’s islands, visit Napoleon Island, and observe the local fishing villages along the shore. It’s a fantastic way to see the lake’s beauty from a different perspective while learning about the local culture and communities. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner by the lake and a peaceful evening.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Paradis Malahide, or Kivu Lodge.

Day 7:
Exploring Lake Kivu’s Local Culture

After a leisurely breakfast, head out to explore the surrounding villages around Lake Kivu. You can visit a local fishing village, learn about the traditional fishing methods, or engage with the local community to gain insights into daily life in this serene part of Rwanda. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit Gisenyi, a lakeside town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture. You can relax by the water or enjoy a guided walk through the town. It’s an ideal opportunity to experience rural Rwandan life, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy your last evening at the lake, where you can reflect on the experiences of your safari.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Paradis Malahide, or Kivu Lodge.

Day 8:
Return to Kigali and Departure

On your final day, after breakfast, take a scenic drive back to Kigali. Depending on your departure time, you can stop at various viewpoints for a last look at Rwanda’s stunning landscapes. If time permits, visit the Kigali Craft Market for last-minute shopping or take in a farewell lunch at one of Kigali’s top restaurants before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight home.

SAFARI INCLUDES

✅ Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
✅ Professional English-speaking safari guide and driver
✅ Game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
✅ Boat cruise on the Chobe River and mokoro safari in the Okavango Delta
✅ Park entrance and conservation fees
✅ Cultural experience with San Bushmen
✅ Airport and road transfers

SAFARI EXCLUDES

❌ International flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Personal expenses and tips
❌ Optional activities not listed
❌ Visa fees

Getting There

This tour starts in Kigali , Rwanda’s Capital city.

We have local daily flights available on several airlines.

A transfer from and back to the airport is included

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost

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