5 DAYS AKAGERA AND VOLCANOES NP SAFARI

Safari Overview: An Unforgettable Adventure Through Rwanda’s Wonders

Welcome to the land of a thousand hills, where nature and adventure converge to offer an unforgettable safari experience. Over the course of five days, you will explore the incredible diversity of Rwanda, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. From the famous Big Five at Akagera National Park to the mighty gorillas in the mist of Volcanoes National Park, this safari is a journey through one of the most unique and ecologically rich regions in Africa.

This adventure will immerse you in thrilling game drives, boat cruises, cultural explorations, and, most importantly, encounters with the majestic mountain gorillas—humans’ closest cousins. Each day will be filled with a blend of exploration, education, and unforgettable moments that will leave you with lasting memories.

Day 1: Kigali City Tour and Transfer to Akagera National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide. After an introduction and a briefing on your itinerary, you’ll embark on a Kigali city tour. Your first stop will be the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you will learn about the tragic history of Rwanda, reflecting on the lives of over 25,000 victims of the 1994 genocide. This powerful and moving experience is both educational and commemorative, offering a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s past.

Next, visit the Kigali Convention Center, an iconic structure that represents Rwanda’s rise from the past and its aspirations for the future. The tour will also take you through bustling local markets where you can experience the lively culture of Rwanda’s capital. After a fascinating day in the city, you will be treated to an early lunch, before beginning your journey to Akagera National Park.

The drive will take approximately 3 to 5 hours, and as you approach the park, the scenic beauty of Rwanda will unfold before you. Akagera is the only savannah park in Rwanda, and its mix of rolling plains, lakes, and woodlands is stunning. After arriving at your lodge, check-in, enjoy a delicious dinner, and relax for the night, ready for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Akagera National Park

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge before setting off for a 3 to 4-hour game drive through Akagera National Park. This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and during your drive, you will have the opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic species, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Akagera is also home to a host of other animals such as zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, and a wide variety of antelopes.

Bird lovers will also be delighted, as the park is home to numerous bird species, including the rare papyrus gonolek and the shoebill stork. The excitement of the game drive will be followed by a relaxing boat cruise on the twin lakes—Lake Ruhondo and Lake Kivu—where you can enjoy stunning views, watch fishermen at work, and perhaps spot some of the park's aquatic life, including hippos and crocodiles.

After a delightful lunch and an afternoon enjoying the tranquil waters, you can engage with local fishermen to learn about their sustainable practices. As the day winds down, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening.

Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and Musaze Cave Exploration

After breakfast, depart from Akagera and begin your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, the home of the famous mountain gorillas. The drive will take you through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, offering views of lush plantations, rural homesteads, and the smiling faces of the Rwandan people.

Upon arriving at the park, check-in at your lodge, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. The evening is reserved for an exciting Musaze Cave exploration. The caves are home to a range of bat species, and as you explore the cool, damp chambers, you will marvel at the formations of stalactites and stalagmites. This brief yet adventurous activity will introduce you to another side of Rwanda’s natural beauty.

Return to your lodge for dinner and a well-earned night’s rest, as you prepare for the next day’s once-in-a-lifetime experience with the gorillas.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Nature Walk

Today is the day you’ve been waiting for—gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you will be provided with your trekking documents, including packed lunch and water. At Volcanoes National Park headquarters, you’ll receive a briefing from the ranger guides, who will explain the dos and don’ts of trekking and provide tips for a safe and respectful experience with these magnificent creatures.

Once the briefing is over, you will be assigned to a group of up to 8 people, and each group will track one of the park's gorilla families. The trek could take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on where the gorillas have been spotted. As you hike through the lush, misty forest, the anticipation builds. And then, you’ll come face-to-face with the mighty silverback gorilla and the rest of the family. The gorillas are gentle, curious, and surprisingly human-like, making this an unforgettable encounter. Spend an hour observing these incredible primates in their natural habitat, taking photos (without flash), and learning from the guides about their behavior, social structure, and conservation efforts.

After this life-changing experience, you’ll begin your trek back, observing the other inhabitants of the forest, including various bird species and plants. Upon returning to the lodge, enjoy lunch, and in the afternoon, take a nature walk through the park’s stunning landscapes, which are filled with dense bamboo forests, volcanic lakes, and rolling hills.

The day will end with a visit to the local community living on the borders of the park. You’ll have a chance to engage with the local people, learn about their culture, and discover how they live in harmony with the surrounding wildlife. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 5: Departure

On your final morning, you’ll have some free time to enjoy a delicious breakfast with a sunrise view of the park’s magnificent landscapes. Afterward, check out of the lodge for the drive back to Kigali. The journey will take 2-3 hours, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside, including lush plantations and traditional homesteads.

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your safari guide will assist you with your check-in and bid you farewell, ensuring that you have a smooth journey home.

End of Safari: A Journey to Remember

This 5-day adventure through Rwanda offers an unparalleled blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery. From the Big Five in Akagera to the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, this safari presents the best of Rwanda’s natural wonders. Whether you’re captivated by the game drives, enchanted by the gorillas, or inspired by the country’s rich cultural heritage, this trip will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.