Safari Overview

Rwanda

Discover the Land of a Thousand Hills on this 6-day Remarkable Rwanda Safari. This premium journey balances the somber yet resilient history of Kigali with the breathtaking natural beauty of Volcanoes National Park. You will go beyond the standard tourist path to experience intimate encounters with two of the world’s most endangered primates: the majestic Mountain Gorillas and the playful Golden Monkeys.

From the luxury of One & Only Gorilla’s Nest to the poignant halls of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, this safari is an intricately crafted blend of luxury, culture, and high-impact conservation.

 

Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and immersion into Africa’s cleanest, most vibrant city.
• Day 2: Scenic transfer to the volcanic Virunga Mountains.
• Day 3: Once-in-a-lifetime Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking and an authentic Rwandan Cultural Village visit.
• Day 5: Return to Kigali for a comprehensive City & History Tour.
• Day 6: Final shopping at local craft markets and departure.

 

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – The Heart of Rwanda

Welcome to Rwanda! Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by our professional guide and transferred to your luxury hotel. Kigali is celebrated for its meandering boulevards and lush hillsides. Depending on your arrival time, you can begin soaking in the city’s atmosphere or relax at the Marriott or Serena.

• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury) / Onomo Hotel (Mid-range)
• Meal Plan: Half Board

 

Day 2: Scenic Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a brief tour of Kigali before embarking on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park.

Travel Note: This 2.5 to 3-hour journey takes you through spectacular winding roads with views of terraced farms and the towering Virunga Volcanoes. We include stops at local viewpoints to allow you to capture the Land of a Thousand Hills on camera.

• Accommodation: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest (Luxury) / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
• Meal Plan: Full Board

 

Day 3: The Gorilla Trekking Experience

The day begins at the RDB park headquarters with a traditional cup of Rwandan coffee and a briefing. You will be assigned a gorilla family based on your physical ability. The trek can last from 30 minutes to several hours. Once found, you will spend one hour observing these gentle giants. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to learn about banana brewing, traditional medicine, and Rwandan royalty.

• Accommodation: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest (Luxury) / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
• Meal Plan: Full Board

 

Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Bamboo Forests

Return to the forest today to track the Golden Monkeys. These striking primates are endemic to the Albertine Rift and live in the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes. They are incredibly active and provide excellent photography opportunities as they leap through the canopy. Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the world-class amenities of your lodge.

• Accommodation: One & Only Gorilla’s Nest (Luxury) / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range)
• Meal Plan: Full Board

 

Day 5: Return to Kigali & Cultural Immersion

Bid farewell to the mountains and drive back to Kigali. Upon arrival, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the victims of 1994 and a testament to the country’s peace and reconciliation. Spend the evening at a high-end restaurant like Choose Kigali to savor the flavors of modern Rwandan cuisine.

• Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel (Luxury) / Onomo Hotel (Mid-range)
• Meal Plan: Full Board

 

Day 6: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, visit local craft markets or the Kimironko market for souvenirs. Reflect on your journey over lunch before your guide transfers you to the airport for your departure flight.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

 

Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

Category	Inclusions (What is included)	Exclusions (What is NOT included)
Permits	Gorilla Permit ($1500) & Golden Monkey Permit ($100)	International & Domestic flights
Transport	Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with Wi-Fi	Rwanda Entry Visa fees
Staff	Professional English-speaking driver-guide	Tips and gratuities for guides/porters
Accommodation	5 Nights (Luxury/Mid-range) as specified	Premium/Top-shelf alcoholic drinks
Activities	Genocide Memorial & Cultural Village visit	Optional Kigali excursions
Meals	Full Board (Including house drinks at One & Only)	Personal expenses (Laundry, Phone)
Transfers	All airport and inter-hotel transfers	Travel & Medical Insurance

 

Quick Facts

• Destinations: Kigali & Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
• Key Species: Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys.
• Luxury Stay: Features the ultra-luxury One & Only Gorilla’s Nest.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June–September and December–February).
• Physical Level: Moderate (Gorilla trekking requires hiking on slopes).
• Insight: Rwanda is a leader in sustainable High-Value, Low-Volume tourism; permit fees directly support local community schools and hospitals.

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