Embark on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s most iconic national parks. This exclusive safari experience combines thrilling primate encounters in Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks with classic big game viewing in Akagera National Park. From lush rainforests to open savannahs, explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Land of a Thousand Hills.
9-Day Around Rwanda Primates Tracking & Big Five Safari
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s most iconic national parks. This exclusive safari experience combines thrilling primate encounters in Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks with classic big game viewing in Akagera National Park. From lush rainforests to open savannahs, explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Land of a Thousand Hills.
9-Day Around Rwanda Primates Tracking & Big Five Safari
- Nyungwe NP
- Volcanoes National Park
- Akagera National Park
9-Day Around Rwanda Primates Tracking & Big Five Safari
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s most iconic national parks. This exclusive safari experience combines thrilling primate encounters in Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks with classic big game viewing in Akagera National Park. From lush rainforests to open savannahs, explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for an introduction to Rwanda’s history and resilience. Overnight at Hotel Des Melli Collines or Similar.
Following a morning breakfast begin a scenic transfer to Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda’s southwest. En route, enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside and a stop at cultural or historical landmarks (Kings Palace Nyanza & Butare national museum). Overnight Nyungwe Top View Hills Hotel or similar.
After an early breakfast, set off into the dense rainforest for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. In the afternoon, take a guided canopy walk suspended above the forest, offering stunning views and the chance to spot birdlife and other primates. Overnight Nyungwe Top View Hills Hotel or similar.
This morning, enjoy a guided trek in search of the endangered Angolan colobus monkeys. Later, transfer north through scenic landscapes to the foothills of the Virunga Mountains, home of the mountain gorillas. Overnight Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar.
Today is the highlight of your journey — an extraordinary gorilla trekking expedition. Spend an awe-inspiring hour with a habituated gorilla family, guided by expert rangers. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers a deep connection with one of our closest relatives. Overnight Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar.
Track the rare and energetic golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Afterwards, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or the Gorilla Guardians Village before returning to Kigali.
Overnight Hôtel des Mille Collines or similar.
Following an early morning breakfast, Depart Kigali for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Upon arrival, enjoy a short game drive en route to the lodge which is located inside the park. Afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema. Overnight Akagera Game Lodge or similar.
Enjoy a full-day game drive across Akagera’s varied landscapes, home to the Big Five, giraffes, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species. Stop for a picnic lunch in the park before continuing your exploration. Overnight Akagera Game Lodge or similar.
After a leisurely breakfast and optional morning game drive, transfer back to Kigali for your international departure or onward travel arrangements. End of tour.
What is included and excluded?
The cost includes.
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- A professional driver/guide
- All accommodation
- All transportation
- Gorilla permits
- Chimp permits
- All activities
- Park fees
- Meals
- Drinks.
The cost excludes.
- Drinks
- International flights(From/to home)
- Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour.
Frequently asked questions
The best time for safari and gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February. Trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife is more visible.
Most visitors need a visa, but Rwanda offers visa-on-arrival for many nationalities and also an e-visa system. You can apply online or obtain one upon arrival at Kigali International Airport.
Rwanda is home to incredible wildlife, including:
- Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
- Chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in Nyungwe Forest
- Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos) in Akagera National Park
Gorilla trekking ranges from moderate to challenging, depending on your fitness level and the gorilla family’s location that day. Treks can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours.
Yes — Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest and cleanest countries. The parks are well-managed and secure, and local guides ensure visitors’ safety.
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes
- A rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Hiking boots for treks
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and reusable water bottle
A typical safari lasts 5–10 days, depending on what you want to experience. Many travelers combine gorilla trekking with wildlife viewing in Akagera and a cultural stop in Kigali.
Yes! Rwanda combines perfectly with Uganda, Kenya, or Tanzania, especially for guests flying into the region for extended East African adventures.
Absolutely. We offer private, tailor-made tours for individuals, families, and groups — designed around your schedule, interests, and budget.