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Kigali - Akagera - Nyungwe - Lake Kivu - Volcanoes NP - Kigali
12 Days Complete Rwanda Safari
Introduction
The 12-Day Complete Rwanda Safari is Rwanda's premier savannah experience, combining the classic African game drive with the unique waterways of Lake Ihema. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive Big Five wildlife experience in one of Africa's most remarkable conservation success stories.
Akagera National Park is Rwanda's only savannah park and its largest protected wetland. Located in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border, this 1,200 sq km park has undergone an incredible revival in the last decade. Lions were reintroduced in 2015 and eastern black rhinos in 2017, proudly restoring its status as a Big Five destination. The park's stunning landscape of rolling hills, acacia woodlands, and sparkling lakes offers a uniquely Rwandan safari experience.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kigali through Rwanda's famous terraced hills. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into luxury lodges overlooking Lake Ihema. Activities include game drives across the Kilala plains, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and optional night game drives for the chance to see nocturnal predators.
Why This Safari?
Complete Rwanda Experience
Cover every ecosystem: savannah, rainforest, lakes, and volcanoes. No other tour offers such comprehensive coverage of Rwanda's natural wonders.
Gorilla & Chimp Trekking
Track both mountain gorillas in Volcanoes NP and chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest - the ultimate primate experience in East Africa.
Big Five in Akagera
Rwanda's only savannah park offers classic Big Five game drives including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.
Cultural Immersion
Visit the King's Palace in Nyanza, the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, the IbyIwacu Cultural Village, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Lake Kivu Relaxation
Enjoy boat cruises, coffee tours, and swimming on the serene shores of one of Africa's Great Lakes - a perfect mid-safari break.
Expert Local Guides
Our 100% locally owned company provides expert guides with deep knowledge of Rwanda's wildlife, history, and culture.
Tour Highlights
- Track Endangered Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes NP
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
- Big Five Game Drives in Akagera National Park
- Nyungwe Canopy Walkway - 70m Above the Forest
- Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Coffee Farm Tour
- Golden Monkey Tracking in Virunga Bamboo
- Kigali City Tour & Genocide Memorial
- King's Palace & Ethnographic Museum Cultural Tour
Detailed Itinerary
From the savannahs of Akagera to the rainforests of Nyungwe and the volcanoes of the Virungas - Rwanda's biodiversity is extraordinary.
Arrival in Kigali & City Exploration
Arrive at Kigali International Airport. Meet your guide. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for essential historical context. Explore local markets and the Inema Arts Center. Learn about Rwanda's remarkable transformation.
Transfer to Akagera National Park
Drive east to Akagera National Park through Rwanda's terraced hills. Afternoon game drive spotting zebra, giraffe, impala, and topaz. Check in at your lodge overlooking Lake Ihema.
Full Day Big Five Safari in Akagera
Full-day game drive exploring the Kilala plains for lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema - hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife including the shoebill stork.
Akagera to Kigali & Nyanza Cultural Tour
Morning game drive. Return to Kigali via the scenic terraced hills. Continue south to Nyanza to visit the King's Palace and the sacred Inyambo cattle. Overnight in Huye.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Enter the ancient Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking. Spend an hour observing our closest relatives in their natural habitat. Afternoon relaxation at the lodge.
Canopy Walkway & Waterfall Hike
Walk across the famous Canopy Walkway suspended 70m above the rainforest. Afternoon hike to the beautiful Isumo Waterfall through tea plantations and tree ferns.
Nyungwe to Lake Kivu
Scenic drive along the Congo-Nile Divide with dramatic views of Lake Kivu. Arrive in Rubavu (Gisenyi) for lakeside relaxation. Sunset on the beach.
Lake Kivu Boat Cruise & Coffee Tour
Morning boat trip on Lake Kivu visiting local islands and singing fishermen. Afternoon coffee farm tour - learn how some of the world's best coffee is grown.
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Drive north to Volcanoes National Park through Rwanda's dramatic landscapes. Afternoon briefing on gorilla trekking protocols. Prepare for the main event.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The pinnacle of your safari. Trek through bamboo forests to find a habituated gorilla family. Spend one magical hour with the mountain gorillas. Afternoon visit to IbyIwacu Cultural Village.
Golden Monkey Trekking & Karisoke
Trek to see the rare golden monkeys in the Virunga bamboo forests. Afternoon visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International Karisoke Research Center.
Return to Kigali & Departure
Final breakfast in the mountains. Scenic drive back to Kigali. Visit craft markets for souvenirs. Transfer to Kigali International Airport for departure.
Destinations You'll Explore
Akagera National Park
Rwanda's only savannah park and Big Five destination. Rolling plains, acacia woodlands, and Lake Ihema offer classic African safari experiences within Rwanda's borders.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
One of Africa's oldest rainforests, home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Famous for the Canopy Walkway suspended 70m above the forest floor.
Lake Kivu
One of Africa's Great Lakes with stunning beaches, resort towns, and volcanic backdrop. Enjoy boat cruises, coffee tours, and lakeside relaxation.
Volcanoes National Park
Home to the endangered mountain gorilla in the Virunga Mountains. This 160 sq km park of bamboo forests and montane rainforest offers the most profound wildlife encounter on Earth.
Rwanda's Wildlife & Natural Wonders
From the savannahs of Akagera to the rainforests of Nyungwe and the volcanoes of the Virungas - Rwanda's biodiversity is extraordinary.
- Primates: Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys
- Big Five: Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, black & white rhinos
- Mammals: Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, bushbucks, forest hogs
- Birds: Over 700 species including shoebill stork, Rwenzori turaco, great blue turaco
- Vegetation: Savannah plains, bamboo forests, montane rainforest, alpine vegetation
- Unique: One of the most biodiverse countries in Africa per square kilometer
Photo Gallery
Akagera Wilderness
Lion in Akagera
Elephant Herd
Lake Ihema Boat SafariGiraffe SightingsShoebill Stork
What's Included & Excluded
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Location
What Our Travelers Say
Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have experienced Rwanda's wilderness with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Akagera National Park a Big Five destination?
Yes! Akagera is Rwanda's only Big Five park. Lions were reintroduced in 2015, black rhinos in 2017, and the park is also home to leopards, elephants, and Cape buffalo. It is one of Africa's greatest conservation success stories.
When is the best time for this Akagera safari?
The dry season from June to September offers the best game viewing as animals gather around water sources. The green season (October to May) provides lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching, and fewer crowds.
What should I pack for this Akagera safari?
Pack lightweight neutral-coloured clothing, a warm fleece for early morning drives, a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Is this safari suitable for children?
Yes, Akagera is family-friendly. Game drives and boat safaris can be tailored for all ages. Please contact us for family-specific arrangements and age-appropriate activities.
Do I need a visa for Rwanda?
Yes, most visitors require a Rwanda visa. You can apply for an eVisa online or obtain one upon arrival. Visas are not included in the tour price.
What animals will I see in Nyerere?
Akagera is home to lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffalo, black and white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, topi, eland, and over 500 bird species including the shoebill stork.
What type of accommodation is included?
Luxury lodges and tented camps within the park including Akagera Game Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, and Magashi Camp with stunning views of Lake Ihema.
How do I get to Akagera from Kigali?
Akagera is a comfortable 2.5-hour drive east from Kigali on good roads. The tour includes private 4x4 transfer with your guide through Rwanda's beautiful terraced hills.
Is Akagera safe for tourists?
Yes, Akagera is a safe and well-managed park. Professional guides, secure lodges, and established safari protocols ensure your safety throughout the trip.
How much does this safari cost?
Please contact us for a personalised quote. Prices vary based on group size, accommodation level, and season. We offer luxury options to suit your preferences.
Ready for the Ultimate Rwanda Safari?
Book your 12-Day Complete Rwanda Safari. Rwanda's most spectacular savannah adventure awaits.