9-Day Rwanda Big 3 Safari – Volcanoes, Nyungwe & Akagera

Overview

Discover Rwanda’s renowned “Big 3” on this exciting 9-day safari. Experience mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest, and classic Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park. This itinerary perfectly blends thrilling wildlife encounters with immersive cultural experiences, showcasing Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems and rich heritage.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes NP

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking or Cultural Visit – Transfer to Kigali

Day 4: Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Day 6: Canopy Walk & Nature Trails

Day 7: Transfer to Akagera National Park

Day 8: Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Day 9: Return to Kigali – City Tour & Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes NP

 

  • Arrival and warm welcome at Kigali International Airport
  • Scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park with lunch en route
  • Check-in at your lodge and briefing for upcoming activities

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

 

  • Early morning briefing followed by gorilla trekking expedition
  • Spend a magical hour with the mountain gorilla families
  • Return to lodge for relaxation or optional cultural visits

Day 3: Golden Monkey Trek or Cultural Visit – Transfer to Kigali

 

  • Morning golden monkey trek or visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
  • Afternoon drive back to Kigali for overnight stay at a boutique hotel

Day 4: Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park

 

  • Depart Kigali for Nyungwe Forest National Park
  • Arrive and check-in at your forest lodge
  • Evening at leisure to enjoy forest sounds and surroundings

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

 

  • Early morning chimpanzee trekking experience
  • Return to lodge for lunch and rest
  • Optional nature walk or community visit in the afternoon

Day 6: Canopy Walk & Nature Trails

 

  • Morning walk on the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walkway

  • Afternoon guided hikes to nearby waterfalls and primate spotting

  • Evening cultural performance at the lodge

Day 7: Transfer to Akagera National Park

 

  • Morning drive to Akagera National Park, known for savannah landscapes and Big Five

  • Afternoon game drive en route to your lodge overlooking wetlands

Day 8: Full Day Game Drives in Akagera National Park

 

  • Early morning and afternoon game drives to spot lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and hippos

  • Sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema to view waterbirds and hippos

  • Return to lodge for dinner and overnight

Day 9: Return to Kigali – City Tour & Departure

 

  • Drive back to Kigali with a visit to the Genocide Memorial and local markets

  • Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight

 

 

 

Includes

⦁ Gorilla, chimpanzee, and golden monkey permits

⦁ Park fees and guided game drives

⦁ Accommodation on full board basis

⦁ Private transportation and professional driver-guide

⦁ Bottled water during activities

 

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