The 10 Day Ultimate Rwanda Experience

The Kigali City Tour offers a rich blend of history and modernity. Starting at the Kandt

House Museum, it explores Rwanda’s colonial past, followed by a panoramic view from Juru Park. Visitors enjoy a vibrant food tour in Nyamirambo, art at the Inema Art Center, and reflect at the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial. The Nyamirambo Women’s Center highlights efforts for gender equality, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial promotes reconciliation. The tour concludes with a drive through Kigali’s modern districts and a visit to a lively local market, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s evolution, culture, and resilience.

Hotel: Park Inn by Radisson Blue

Today, journey south to Nyanza, the heart of Rwanda's ancient monarchy. Here, you'll explore the meticulously reconstructed King's Palace (Rukari Palace Museum), which offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional Rwandan way of life and royal history. Then, continue to Huye to visit the Ethnographic Museum, one of Africa’s finest museums, which houses an extensive collection of traditional artifacts, providing deep insights into Rwandan cultural heritage, customs, and pre-colonial life. Proceed to Nyungwe National Park for an overnight stay.

Hotel: Ken Barham 

Start your day early with breakfast and prepare for an exciting adventure in Nyungwe Forest. After the briefing at Uwinka Reception, you’ll embark on one of two chimpanzee trekking trails: either the Uwinka or Cyamudongo trail. Chimpanzees, sharing 98% of our DNA, are highly intelligent and social, often visible in the treetops. Expect to observe their grooming, playing, and feeding behaviors as you track them through the dense forest. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chances are 89%. Along the way, you may spot other primates, like olive baboons, as well as various bird species, such as the Rwenzori Turaco. After the trek, enjoy lunch before heading out for a nature walk. The popular Waterfall Trail offers stunning views of Ndambarare Waterfall, taking about 3 hours to complete. You’ll also experience the thrilling Canopy Walk, providing a bird’s-eye view of the forest’s rich biodiversity.

Hotel: Cormoran Lodge

Relax and unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. After breakfast, we head to Kibuye, where you’ll witness Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, earning its nickname as the "Country of a Thousand Hills." Along the way, feel free to ask the guide for a stop to capture breathtaking views. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk through the luxury hotel zone with spectacular lake views, followed by lunch at Kivu Resort. Experience a coffee plantation and a boat ride to Napoleon Island, where a 1.6 km hike offers panoramic views. Swim and relax at Peace Island, encountering velvet monkeys and the chance to spot the swimming cows. Optional BBQ fish adds a tasty touch to this serene day by the lake.

Hotel: Cormoran Lodge

After a leisurely morning by Lake Kivu, enjoy a short, scenic drive to Musanze, the vibrant town at the base of the Virunga Mountains and the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting golden monkey trekking adventure within the park. These playful and active primates, with their striking golden coats, offer a delightful trekking experience as they forage and play in the bamboo forests. Later, immerse yourself in local Rwandan life with a visit to a nearby community or a walk through Musanze town, observing daily activities.

Hotel: Davinci Lodge

An early start for the highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience! After a comprehensive briefing by park rangers, you'll trek through the misty mountain forests in search of one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek itself is an adventure, varying in duration and challenge, adding to the anticipation. The reward is an unforgettable hour spent observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat – a truly awe-inspiring and often deeply emotional encounter. In the afternoon, immerse yourself further in Rwandan culture at the Gorilla Guardians Village (formerly Iby'iwacu Cultural Village), where you'll enjoy traditional dances, drumming, storytelling, and gain insights into Rwandan rural life.

Hotel: Davinci Lodge

Enjoy a final breakfast amidst the volcanic landscapes before embarking on a scenic drive east towards Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only savannah protected area. This journey showcases a dramatic shift in landscapes. Upon arrival, step into an evening game drive. As the sun begins to set, the park comes alive. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, zebras, giraffes, various antelope species, and a plethora of birdlife as you traverse the open plains and acacia woodlands and later camp on the highest peak.

Mutumba camp site

Dedicate a full day to an extensive safari adventure within Akagera National Park. Explore different sectors of the park on morning and afternoon game drives, maximizing your chances of spotting a wide array of wildlife, including potentially the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo), which have been successfully reintroduced. The diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem. In the late afternoon, enjoy a serene boat safari on Lake Ihema. This offers a unique perspective for wildlife viewing, providing close encounters with hippos and crocodiles, alongside excellent birdwatching opportunities along the shoreline. Hotel: Akagera Game Lodge

Day 9: Return to Kigali – Nyandungu Eco-Park & Craft Shopping 

After a final breakfast in Akagera, begin your journey back to Kigali. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in a different kind of green space at Nyandungu Eco-Park, a recently developed urban wetland park offering boardwalks, walking trails, and a chance to observe various bird species and learn about wetland conservation. The afternoon is dedicated to craft shopping. Explore local markets like Kimironko Market or other artisan shops for last-minute souvenirs, textiles, and unique Rwandan crafts, allowing you to take a piece of Rwanda home with you.

Hotel: Eagle View Lodge

Dedicate your last full day to Kigali’s hidden gems. Begin with the Presidential Palace Museum to understand Rwanda’s political evolution, then stroll through the Car-Free Zone, observing local life and street art installations. After lunch at a café renowned for singleorigin Rwandan coffee, choose between a culinary workshop at a community center or a visit to the Campaign Against Genocide Museum for deeper context. Conclude with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city before transferring to Kigali International Airport for your evening flight home or Your prefered Location in Kigali.