Norrsken House, 1 KN 78 St, Kigali, Rwanda +250 781 445 000 info@vazqueztours.com

6-Day Rwanda Big Five Safari & Gorilla Trekking Expedition

Kigali → Akagera National Park → Volcanoes National Park → Kigali, Rwanda

Price

USD 7,918

Per person (based on two people)

Duration

6 Days

Destination

Rwanda

Akagera & Volcanoes National Parks

Journey Overview

Embark on an extraordinary six-day journey through Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife destinations, where a thrilling Big Five safari and unforgettable mountain gorilla encounter combine for the ultimate African adventure. Your journey begins in Kigali before continuing to the wild savannah plains of Akagera National Park, where shimmering lakes and diverse ecosystems set the stage for game drives in search of elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. From there, travel to the mist-covered slopes of Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas of the Virunga Mountains, for one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife encounters. Along the way, discover Rwanda’s rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, from exhilarating game drives and boat safaris to an intimate primate trekking experience, in a carefully crafted journey that offers memories to last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Big Five Game Drives in Akagera National Park – Track lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, across Rwanda’s premier savannah reserve, home to shimmering lakes and sweeping plains teeming with wildlife.

  • Boat Cruise Safari on Lake Ihema – Glide across Akagera’s largest lake for close-up sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of waterbirds, a serene contrast to the game drives on land.

  • Face-to-Face with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park – Trek through the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains for an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of the world’s most endangered primates.

  • Kigali City Tour & Genocide Memorial – Explore Rwanda’s vibrant capital and pay respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, gaining insight into the nation’s history and remarkable journey of resilience.

  • Rwanda’s Diverse Landscapes, Start to Fish – Journey from Kigali’s vibrant capital through savannah plains to volcanic rainforest, experiencing the country’s rich biodiversity and warm hospitality along the way.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Warm Welcome to Rwanda

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional safari team and transferred to the elegant Mövenpick Kigali for the beginning of your 6-Day Rwanda Big Five & Gorilla Trekking Expedition. Surrounded by serene gardens and refined ambiance, the hotel offers the perfect setting to relax and recover after your international journey while experiencing Rwanda’s renowned hospitality.

After a smooth check-in, unwind and settle into your accommodation before enjoying a refined dining experience featuring a blend of local and international cuisine. Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing and preparing for the exceptional safari and primate experiences that lie ahead.

Accommodation (Luxury): Mövenpick Hotel Kigali – Standard Room

Meal Plan: Dinner served with a selection of non-alcoholic beverages

Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Game Drive & Boat Cruise Safari

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before checking out and departing for Akagera National Park by 9:00 AM. The transfer takes approximately 2.5 hours, taking your through Rwanda’s stunning countryside and rolling landscapes. Upon arrival at the park reception, your driver guide will assist with registration, after which you’ll begin winding through Akagera’s ecosystem en route to your lodge. Check in at the Ruzizi Tented Lodge and enjoy lunch as you settle into your surroundings.

In the afternoon, set out on a short game drive before boarding a boat cruise safari on Lake Ihema, offering close-up sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of waterbirds, a serene contrast to the game drives on land. Afterward, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, resting up for a full day of game drives ahead.

Accommodation (Mid-range): Ruzizi Tented Lodge – Safari Tent

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages.

Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive & Night Safari at Karenge Bush Camp

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out and picking up your packed lunch. Bid farewell to the attentive lodge team and set off on a full-day game drive, tracking from the southern to the northern part of Akagera in search of the Big Five and other remarkable species, including rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, zebras, and various antelope that call this park home. Enjoy a picnic lunch out in the park as the day’s adventure continues, before checking in at Karenge Bush Camp, your base for the night’s excitement.

Later in the afternoon, embark on a night game drive from 5:30 PM to 8:30 AM abord a park safari vehicle, accompanied by a park guide, for a rare opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife in action. After this incredible experience, return to Karenge Bush Camp for dinner and an overnight stay beneath the African sky.

Accommodation (Mid-range): Karenge Bush Camp – Safari Tent

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages.

Day 4: Transfer from Akagera to Volcanoes National Park

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Karenge Bush Camp before checking out and departing Akagera National Park. Journey northward across Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, taking in rolling hills, terraced farmland, and shifting landscapes as you make your way toward Musanze, gateway to Volcanoes National Park. Along the route, stop for lunch as you continue the scenic transfer, soaking in the changing scenery from savannah to the volcanic highlands ahead.

Upon arrival in Musanze, check in at the charming Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, your base for the gorilla trekking adventure to come. Spend the evening at leisure, enjoying dinner and the hotel’s mountain ambiance as you rest and prepare for tomorrow’s unforgettable trek into the Virunga Mountains.

Accommodation (Mid-range): Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel – Deluxe Room

Meal Plan: Each guest receives one bottle of house wine upon check-in. All meals are served on a full-board basis, with a selection of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages included.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Conservation Insights at Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

After an early, hearty breakfast at your hotel, set out for the highlight of your journey, a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by expert trackers and guides, venture into the lush volcanic rainforest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. observing these remarkable primates in their natural habitat is a truly profound and awe-inspiring wildlife encounter, offering an unforgettable connection with one of the world’s most iconic species.

After the trek, return to the hotel for a relaxing lunch and time to unwind in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where you will gain deep insight into gorilla conservation efforts and the enduring legacy of Dian Fossey. Conclude your day with a refined dinner at the hotel, followed by a peaceful overnight stay as you reflect on this extraordinary encounter with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Accommodation (Mid-range): Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel – Deluxe Room

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served with a selection of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages.

Day 6: Farewell Rwanda – Kigali Cultural Experience & Departure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your Hotel before check-out, taking in the final peaceful moments of your 6-Day Rwanda Big Five Safari & Gorilla Trekking Expedition. Depart for Kigali, enjoying a scenic drive through Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes while reflecting on your unforgettable journey in the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Upon arrival, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial site for a meaningful and insightful experience that offers a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history, resilience, and journey of healing. Enjoy a refined gourmet lunch at Kigali Serena Hotel, before your final transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, making the end of a truly exceptional safari experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and lunch, served with a selection of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion of your unforgettable journey!

Tour Pricing (Year 2026 - 2027)

Low seasons run from 1st March to 31st May, and from 1st November to 21st December

Accommodation (Luxury & Mid-range): Mövenpick Kigali, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp & Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.

______

High Season Low Season

  • A solo traveler on a private vehicle will pay US$ 9,545 US$ 8,457

  • Based on 2 people sharing twin/double room each will pay US$ 6,838 US$ 6,212

  • Based on 4 people sharing twin/double room each will pay US$ 6,397 US$ 5,785

  • Based on 6 people sharing twin/double room each will pay US$ 5,974 US$ 5,376

  • Meet & Greet – Warm welcome at Kigali International Airport upon arrival and departure.

  • Private 4x4 Vehicle – Enjoy exclusive use of a comfortable 4x4 vehicle throughout your adventure.

  • Professional Driver-Guide – Guided by an experienced, professional, English-speaking driver-guide for a personalized experience.

  • Accommodation – Stay in hand-picked, charming accommodations on a half & full-board basis, as outlined in the itinerary.

  • Meals – All meals as mentioned in the program to delight your taste buds with local & international flavors.

  • Akagera National Park Activities – Includes entrance fees, game drives, and boat safaris.

  • Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permit – One Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permit ($1,500 per person). Permits must be prepaid in full and are non-refundable.

  • Personal Porter – Dedicated porter assistance throughout your trek for added comfort and convenience.

  • Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Visit – Entry to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

  • Audio Guide – Personalized audio-guide for your visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

  • Mineral Water – Refreshing bottled water provided in the vehicle during tours.

  • Government Taxes & Assistance – All government taxes are included, along with our dedicated support.

  • International Flights & Entry Visa fees – Travel arrangements and visa costs are not included.

  • Tips & Gratuities – Optional tips for driver, guides and staff, at your discretion.

  • Personal Expenses – Such as calls, additional drinks, mini-bar charges, and travel insurance.

Talk to Your Adventure Planner