Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s breathtaking natural beauty with Facile Safaris on a 7-day journey crafted for nature lovers, showcasing the country’s pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes. This tour takes you through Volcanoes National Park for gorilla and golden monkey trekking, Nyungwe Forest’s iconic canopy walks and primate encounters, Akagera National Park’s vibrant savanna safaris, and Lake Kivu’s tranquil nature trails, offering a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. With expert naturalist guides, eco-friendly lodges, and seamless transfers, Rwanda nature tours by Facile Safaris deliver an unforgettable exploration of the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” celebrating its biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Gateway to Rwanda’s Nature
Your adventure begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a Facile Safaris guide welcomes you and transfers you to the comfortable Kigali Serena Hotel in Rwanda’s vibrant capital. After settling in, join a guided afternoon walk at the Nyarutarama Lake nature trail, spotting birds like the malachite kingfisher and learning about Kigali’s urban green spaces from your naturalist guide. Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring Rwandan specialties like isombe, soaking in the hotel’s serene ambiance as you prepare for the wild landscapes ahead.
Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park – Into the Virungas
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle to Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the Virunga Mountains, a haven for mountain gorillas and lush forests. Check into the eco-conscious Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, offering cozy cottages with volcanic views. In the afternoon, take a guided forest walk along the park’s edge, spotting birds like the cinnamon-chested bee-eater and learning about the region’s flora from your guide. Savor a hearty dinner at the lodge, with the crisp mountain air and anticipation of gorilla trekking setting a magical tone.
Day 3: Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Trekking
Rise early for a thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, a highlight for nature lovers. After a briefing, trek through dense forests with expert trackers to encounter a gorilla family, spending an hour observing their interactions amidst the misty slopes. Spot forest birds like the Rwenzori turaco along the trail. Return to Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge for a leisurely lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon to rest or explore the lodge’s gardens. Enjoy a fireside dinner, sharing stories of your gorilla encounter under the starry mountain sky.
Day 4: Volcanoes to Nyungwe – Golden Monkeys and Forest Journey
Start the day with a golden monkey trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, tracking these playful primates through bamboo groves, with your guide highlighting their unique behaviors. After a picnic breakfast, travel south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot with ancient rainforests. Check into the luxurious One&Only Nyungwe House, nestled in a tea plantation. In the evening, take a short guided night walk near the lodge, listening for nocturnal creatures like bushbabies. Savor a gourmet dinner, with the forest’s ambiance enhancing the experience.
Day 5: Nyungwe Forest – Canopy Walks and Primate Encounters
After breakfast, explore Nyungwe’s wonders with a guided canopy walk, crossing a 70-meter-high suspension bridge for panoramic forest views and sightings of birds like the great blue turaco. Continue with a primate trek to spot Angolan colobus monkeys, known for their striking black-and-white fur, guided by a naturalist. Return to One&Only Nyungwe House for a gourmet lunch, followed by an afternoon forest walk to Kamiranzovu Waterfall, a serene spot for nature lovers. Enjoy a fine-dining dinner, featuring organic Rwandan ingredients, reflecting on the day’s forest adventures.
Day 6: Nyungwe to Akagera – Savanna Wildlife Safari
Travel east to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savanna reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic lakes. Check into the eco-friendly Ruzizi Tented Lodge, set along Lake Ihema. In the afternoon, join a guided game drive through Akagera’s grasslands, spotting giraffes, zebras, and birds like the Lilac-breasted roller, with your guide sharing insights into the park’s conservation story. Enjoy a sunset boat trip on Lake Ihema, watching hippos and crocodiles. Savor a dinner under the acacia trees, with the savanna’s tranquility capping the day.
Day 7: Akagera to Kigali – Farewell to Rwanda’s Wilds
Rise early for a morning game drive in Akagera, seeking elephants, buffalo, and possibly lions, with your guide maximizing wildlife sightings. After a bush breakfast, travel back to Kigali, stopping at a local community to learn about Rwandan beekeeping and taste fresh honey, a fitting nature-focused activity. Arrive in Kigali for a farewell lunch at a scenic restaurant, reflecting on your forest walks and wildlife encounters. A Facile Safaris representative transfers you to Kigali International Airport, leaving you with memories of Rwanda’s natural splendor, courtesy of Facile Safaris Rwanda.
Estimated Price for 2 People Sharing
The estimated cost for this 7-day nature tour with Facile Safaris is $6,800 for two people sharing, based on double occupancy. This includes eco-luxury accommodations (Kigali Serena Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, One&Only Nyungwe House, Ruzizi Tented Lodge), daily breakfast, select lunches and dinners, all ground transfers, park fees, one gorilla trekking permit and one golden monkey trekking permit per person, guided forest walks, game drives, boat trips, and expert naturalist guides. Prices exclude international flights, additional meals, personal expenses, and optional activities. Rates are subject to availability and may vary by season; contact Facile Safaris for a tailored quote.