Discover Rwanda’s untamed beauty with Facile Safaris on an 8-day wildlife safari, immersing you in the diverse ecosystems of Akagera National Park’s savanna and Nyungwe National Park’s ancient rainforest. This tour offers thrilling game drives to spot the Big Five in Akagera, chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks in Nyungwe, and cultural experiences in Kigali and along Lake Kivu’s shores, blending adventure with Rwanda’s warm hospitality. With expert naturalist guides, comfortable mid-range lodges, and seamless transfers, Rwanda wildlife tours by Facile Safaris deliver an unforgettable journey through the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” celebrating its biodiversity and conservation success.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Rwanda’s Vibrant Gateway
Your wildlife adventure begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport, where a Facile Safaris guide welcomes you and transfers you to the stylish Kigali Serena Hotel in Rwanda’s bustling capital. After settling in, join a guided afternoon walk through Kigali’s green spaces, visiting the Nyarutarama Lake trail to spot birds like the grey-crowned crane and learn about Rwanda’s urban biodiversity. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Rwandan dishes like ugali and goat stew, relaxing in the hotel’s serene ambiance as you prepare for the safari ahead.
Day 2: Kigali to Akagera – Savanna Safari Begins
After breakfast, travel by private vehicle to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier savanna reserve known for its Big Five and diverse birdlife. Check into the comfortable Akagera Game Lodge, offering scenic views and a pool. 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 efforts. Savor a sunset dinner at the lodge, with the savanna’s tranquility setting a thrilling tone for your wildlife journey.
Day 3: Akagera – Big Five and Lake Adventures
Rise early for a morning game drive in Akagera, seeking lions, elephants, and buffalo, with your expert guide maximizing sightings of the Big Five. After a bush breakfast, enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ihema, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds like the African fish eagle, offering a unique perspective on Akagera’s ecosystem. Return to Akagera Game Lodge for lunch, followed by a relaxed afternoon or an optional birding walk to spot species like the Ross’s turaco. Enjoy a communal dinner, sharing stories of the day’s wildlife encounters under the stars.
Day 4: Akagera to Nyungwe – Forest Wilderness
Travel south to Nyungwe National Park, a pristine rainforest renowned for its primates and biodiversity. Check into the eco-friendly Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, offering cozy rooms with forest views. In the afternoon, join a guided forest walk along the Kamiranzovu Trail, spotting birds like the great blue turaco and learning about Nyungwe’s ancient ecosystem from your naturalist guide. Savor a hearty dinner at the hotel, featuring Rwandan specialties like isombe, with the forest’s nocturnal sounds creating an immersive backdrop.
Day 5: Nyungwe – Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk
Start the day with a thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe, guided by expert trackers through dense forest trails to observe chimps swinging through the canopy. Spot primates like Angolan colobus monkeys and birds like the red-throated alethe along the way. After a picnic lunch, experience Nyungwe’s iconic canopy walk, crossing a 70-meter-high suspension bridge for panoramic forest views. Return to Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel for a relaxing afternoon, perhaps enjoying the lodge’s terrace. Enjoy a fireside dinner, reflecting on your primate and forest adventures.
Day 6: Nyungwe – Primate Diversity and Waterfalls
After breakfast, join a guided trek to track grey-cheeked mangabey or L’Hoest’s monkeys, diving deeper into Nyungwe’s primate diversity, with your guide highlighting their behaviors. Visit the Gisakura Tea Estate for a guided tour, learning about Rwanda’s tea production and tasting fresh brews amidst scenic plantations. In the afternoon, hike to the serene Isumo Waterfall, a hidden gem in Nyungwe’s forest, perfect for nature lovers. Return to the hotel for a gourmet dinner, featuring organic Rwandan ingredients, celebrating the day’s discoveries.
Day 7: Nyungwe to Lake Kivu – Lakeside Cultural Stop
Journey to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu, a tranquil destination with vibrant local culture. Check into the luxurious Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, offering elegant rooms with lake views. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby fishing village, engaging with locals to learn about traditional net-making and sharing a coffee-tasting session, fostering cultural connections. Take a guided walk along the lakefront, spotting birds like the pied kingfisher. Enjoy a lakeside dinner featuring fresh tilapia, with the lake’s gentle waves enhancing the evening’s serenity.
Day 8: Lake Kivu to Kigali – Farewell to Rwanda
Wake to Lake Kivu’s peaceful beauty and enjoy breakfast overlooking the water. Join a morning activity, such as a guided kayak ride to explore the lake’s coves, spotting herons and otters. After a light lunch, travel back to Kigali, stopping at a roadside market to browse handmade souvenirs like imigongo paintings. Arrive in Kigali for a farewell dinner at a scenic restaurant, reflecting on your wildlife adventures in Akagera and Nyungwe. A Facile Safaris representative transfers you to Kigali International Airport, leaving you with memories of Rwanda’s wild heart, courtesy of Facile Safaris Rwanda.
Estimated Price for 2 People Sharing
The estimated cost for this 8-day wildlife safari with Facile Safaris is $5,600 for two people sharing, based on double occupancy. This includes mid-range accommodations (Kigali Serena Hotel, Akagera Game Lodge, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel), daily breakfast, select lunches and dinners, all ground transfers, park fees, one chimpanzee trekking permit per person, guided game drives, boat trips, canopy walks, 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.
