6 Days Rwanda Safari

Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your incredible 6 Days Rwanda Safari begins the moment you arrive at Kigali International Airport. Upon disembarkation, you will be warmly welcomed by your experienced safari guide from Decisive Safaris Africa Tours Limited. After a short briefing about your upcoming adventure, you’ll set off on a scenic three-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, situated in the picturesque region of Kinigi. This drive winds through lush hills, banana plantations, and rural Rwandan landscapes, offering a taste of the country’s famed “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

As you approach Volcanoes National Park, the volcanic peaks begin to emerge in the distance, signaling your arrival into the heart of mountain gorilla territory. Once at your lodge—choose from luxurious accommodations such as Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Virunga Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, or Tiloreza Volcanoes Eco Lodge—you will have the rest of the day to unwind and acclimate to the higher altitude. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, sip on a warm Rwandan tea or coffee, and take in views of the volcanoes that form the backdrop of your gorilla trekking experience.

This first day of the 6 Days Rwanda Safari allows you to settle into your surroundings, prepare for the adventures ahead, and enjoy the comfort and hospitality that Rwandan lodges are known for.

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

The second day of your 6 Days Rwanda Safari is undoubtedly the highlight—a full day of gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the Kinigi Park Headquarters, where you’ll join other trekkers for a detailed briefing conducted by park rangers. You’ll be assigned to a specific gorilla group and guided through what to expect during your trek.

By 8:00 AM, you’ll set off into the forested slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. The trek can vary in length and difficulty depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family, ranging from 1 to 4 hours. As you traverse through bamboo forests and dense undergrowth, your guide will share insights about the ecology, behaviors, and conservation of these majestic primates.

Upon encountering the gorillas, you’ll spend a magical hour observing them as they feed, groom, and interact within their natural habitat. The silverback’s commanding presence and the playful antics of juveniles offer a deeply moving and humbling experience. This hour is strictly regulated to protect the health of the gorillas and ensure minimal disturbance.

In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll enjoy an engaging cultural performance and learn about the traditional lifestyles of the Rwandan people. Alternatively, take a serene nature walk to the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, ideal for photography and birdwatching.

The second day of your 6 Days Rwanda Safari concludes back at your lodge, where a delicious dinner and a cozy evening await.

Transfer to Nyungwe Forest via Lake Kivu and Kibuye

Day three of your 6 Days Rwanda Safari begins with a hearty breakfast and a scenic road transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Nyungwe Forest National Park. The drive, lasting approximately 7 hours, takes you through some of Rwanda’s most picturesque countryside. You’ll pass by the shimmering waters of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, and make a stop at the charming lakeside town of Kibuye.

The route offers captivating views of terraced hillsides, bustling roadside markets, and traditional homesteads. Enjoy optional photo stops and short refreshment breaks along the way. Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, you may choose to participate in the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, one of the forest’s signature activities. This suspended bridge, hanging over 60 meters above the forest floor, provides a thrilling perspective of the ancient rainforest and allows visitors to spot monkeys, birds, and unique flora from above.

Check-in to your accommodation at either One & Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, or Gisakura Guesthouse. Enjoy the evening at leisure—soak in the lush surroundings, take a guided walk near the lodge, or relax with a book as you prepare for the next day’s primate adventure.

This day of the 6 Days Rwanda Safari provides a well-rounded experience with both scenic drives and optional soft adventure activities, bridging the transition from the volcanic north to the rainforest south of Rwanda.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest and Transfer to Kigali

Rise early on day four of your 6 Days Rwanda Safari for an exciting encounter with one of our closest genetic relatives—the chimpanzee. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the park headquarters where you’ll meet your ranger guide and receive a briefing. Depending on the tracking location, you’ll either venture into Nyungwe’s main forest or head to the Cyamudongo Forest, an isolated patch rich in primate populations.

Chimpanzee tracking can be fast-paced, as these agile primates are often on the move. The experience of hearing their distant whoops, seeing them swing from branch to branch, and observing their social behaviors is exhilarating. You’ll have a full hour with the chimpanzees once located, and this provides ample opportunity for photography and behavioral observation.

After tracking, return to your lodge for an early lunch or packed meal before beginning the six-hour transfer back to Kigali. Upon arrival in Rwanda’s capital city, you’ll check into your hotel for an overnight stay. Choose from premier options such as Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali Marriott Hotel, or Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre. Take time to refresh and unwind. You may also choose to visit a local restaurant for dinner or enjoy a city night view if time permits.

Day four of the 6 Days Rwanda Safari offers a compelling mix of primate tracking and urban comfort, showcasing the biological diversity and modern vibrancy that define Rwanda.

Transfer to Akagera National Park and Afternoon Game Drive

Your 6 Days Rwanda Safari continues with an early morning departure from Kigali to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of the country. This drive takes approximately three hours and offers glimpses into the contrasting landscapes of Rwanda—from rolling hills to open savannahs.

Akagera is Rwanda’s premier savannah park and the only destination in the country where you can see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, and leopard. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your lodge—choose from the eco-friendly Ruzizi Tented Camp, the elevated comfort of Akagera Game Lodge, or other park-approved accommodations.

After settling in, embark on your first game drive at around 3:00 PM. This afternoon safari introduces you to Akagera’s diverse ecosystems—open plains, acacia woodlands, papyrus swamps, and lakes. Expect sightings of giraffes, zebras, antelopes, baboons, and hippos. The park’s birdlife is exceptional, with over 500 recorded species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Return to your lodge at sunset for dinner and an evening of storytelling under the stars. This fifth day of the 6 Days Rwanda Safari brings a fresh dimension to your journey, contrasting the dense rainforests with expansive savannah vistas.

Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Kigali

On the final day of your 6 Days Rwanda Safari, wake up early for a sunrise game drive starting at 7:00 AM. Early mornings are the best time to spot predators on the hunt and observe wildlife before the heat of the day sets in. With luck, you might encounter all members of the Big Five during this morning excursion.

By 11:00 AM, return to your lodge for check-out and an early lunch or packed meal. Begin your journey back to Kigali, with an estimated arrival in the afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide can facilitate a short city tour or a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre—a sobering yet important site that tells the story of Rwanda’s resilience.

You’ll then be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your international flight home, marking the end of your immersive 6 Days Rwanda Safari experience.