10 Days Rwanda: Primates, Wildlife, Lakes & Cultural Discovery

Explore Rwanda in 10 unforgettable days, combining mountain gorilla trekking, Big Five wildlife safaris, chimpanzee encounters, scenic Lake Kivu, ancient rainforests and authentic cultural experiences. A private, tailor-made journey through Rwanda's most remarkable destinations.

Tour information

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Availability
Available on Request
Languages
English, French, Spanish
Difficulty
Moderate- Some walking, hiking and physical activity

Tour highlights

  • - Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Volcanoes National Park.
  • - Big Five Wildlife Safari: Explore Akagera National Park in search of lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses.
  • - Golden Monkey Tracking: Discover the playful golden monkeys of the Virunga Mountains.
  • - Exclusive Luxury Safari: Stay at Wilderness Magashi Camp, surrounded by Akagera's remarkable wildlife and landscapes.
  • - Luxury Volcano Retreat: Experience the exceptional hospitality and volcanic mountain views of Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
  • - Lake Kivu Escape: Enjoy spectacular lakeside scenery, optional private boat excursions and relaxing moments in Karongi.
  • - Chimpanzee Trekking: Explore Nyungwe's ancient rainforest in search of wild chimpanzees.
  • - Nyungwe Canopy Walkway: Experience elevated views across one of Africa's remarkable montane rainforests.
  • - Rwandan Cultural Discovery: Experience traditional music, dance, craftsmanship and local community heritage.
  • - Private Luxury Transportation: Travel across Rwanda in a comfortable private 4x4 vehicle with a professional driver-guide.
  • - Exceptional Accommodation: Enjoy nine nights in carefully selected luxury hotels, lodges and safari camps.
  • - Personalised Travel Experience: Benefit from a tailor-made itinerary with accommodation and experiences adapted to your preferences.

About this tour

10 Days Rwanda Safari – Primates, Wildlife, Lakes & Cultural Discovery

Experience the very best of Rwanda on an unforgettable 10 Days Rwanda Safari through some of East Africa’s most remarkable natural landscapes, wildlife destinations and cultural attractions.

Designed for travellers seeking an authentic and immersive African experience, this carefully curated journey takes you from the vibrant capital of Kigali to the wildlife-rich savannahs of Akagera National Park, the spectacular volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu and the ancient montane rainforest of Nyungwe National Park.

Your adventure in Kigali, where you will discover Rwanda’s welcoming atmosphere and contemporary African identity. Continue east to Akagera National Park for exciting wildlife safaris, with opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras and other remarkable wildlife.

In northern Rwanda, experience one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters: mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by authorised park guides and trackers, venture into the lush mountain forest to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitat. Explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains and the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.

The journey continues towards Lake Kivu, where picturesque landscapes, peaceful waters and lakeside experiences provide a welcome opportunity to relax. Travel onwards to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s most important rainforest ecosystems, for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience and a walk along the spectacular forest canopy walkway.

Throughout the journey, discover Rwanda beyond its famous attractions: its extraordinary scenery, conservation initiatives, cultural traditions, warm hospitality and the communities that make the country unique.

A Journey Designed Around You

This experience is offered as a private, tailor-made journey by CONTINENTAL TRAVEL AND TOURS LTD. Accommodation, travel arrangements, activities and additional experiences can be customised according to your preferred travel dates, group size, interests and comfort requirements.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, private group or individual explorer, our team is committed to creating a memorable Rwandan experience.

Discover Rwanda. Experience Africa. Travel Beyond Expectations.

Day by day itinerary

Print this itinerary
  1. Day 01

    Day 1 of 5

    ARRIVAL IN KIGALI: YOUR LUXURY RWANDAN WELCOME

    A Private Airport Welcome, Exclusive Accommodation & Introduction to Kigali

    • Transport Private Luxury SUV
    • Location Kigali, Rwanda.
    • Route Kigali International Airport → The Retreat Kigali
    • Distance 15 km
    • Travel time 40 Minutes
    • Start time According to international flight arrival.
    • Stay 1 night
    • Overnight The Retreat Kigali – Luxury Boutique Hotel.

    Included highlight Dinner

    Your Rwandan adventure begins with a personalised welcome at Kigali International Airport. Upon arrival, a representative of CONTINENTAL TRAVEL AND TOURS LTD will meet you, assist with your luggage and introduce you to your private driver-guide.

    Enjoy a comfortable transfer through Kigali's beautifully landscaped neighbourhoods to The Retreat Kigali, an exclusive boutique luxury property known for its personalised hospitality, elegant accommodation and peaceful atmosphere.

    After check-in, enjoy time to relax and recover from your international journey. Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, an optional introductory Kigali experience can be arranged, including a visit to selected art galleries, local lifestyle destinations or scenic city viewpoints.

    In the evening, enjoy a refined dining experience and a private safari briefing outlining the exciting journey ahead.

    10 days rwana safari
  2. Day 02

    Day 2 of 5

    AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK: INTO RWANDA'S WILDERNESS

    Scenic Countryside Journey, Luxury Safari Arrival & First Wildlife Encounters

    • Transport Private Luxury 4x4 safari
    • Experience duration Full Day
    • Location Eastern Rwanda – Akagera National Park.
    • Route The Retreat Kigali → Akagera National Park Southern Gate → Wilderness Magashi Camp.
    • Distance 110km
    • Travel time 5 Hours
    • Start time 07:00 AM
    • Stay 1 night
    • Overnight Wilderness Magashi Camp – Exclusive Luxury Safari Camp.

    After an early breakfast, depart Kigali and travel east towards Akagera National Park, Rwanda's spectacular savannah wilderness.

    The journey introduces you to a different side of Rwanda, characterised by open countryside, rolling hills, traditional settlements and expansive agricultural landscapes.

    Upon reaching the park, enter its diverse ecosystems of savannah plains, woodland, lakes and wetlands. Continue towards the exclusive northern section of the park, where Wilderness Magashi Camp is situated overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga.

    Depending on arrival time and wildlife movements, enjoy an introductory game-viewing experience before checking into your luxury tented accommodation.

    Spend the afternoon enjoying the camp's beautiful surroundings, followed by an evening dining experience and the sounds of the African wilderness.

    1. Start time 07:00 AM

      Private departure from Kigali.

    2. Start time 08:30 AM

      Scenic countryside stop and refreshments, subject to timing.

    3. Start time 10:00 AM

      Arrival at Akagera's southern entrance, subject to journey conditions.

    4. Start time 10:00 AM–01:00 PM

      Park entry and scenic wildlife transfer towards the northern concession.

    5. Start time 01:00 PM–03:00 PM

      Arrival, lunch and lodge check-in, subject to arrival time.

    6. Start time 03:30 PM–05:30 PM

      Optional introductory game drive.

    7. Start time 06:30 PM

      Sundowner and relaxation.

    8. Start time 07:30 PM

      Dinner at the camp.

    10 days rwanda safari
  3. Day 03

    Day 3 of 5

    AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK: THE BIG FIVE SAFARI EXPERIENCE

    Exclusive Game Drives, Lake Safari & Exceptional Wildlife Photography

    • Transport Open 4x4 Safari Vehicle
    • Location Akagera National Park, Eastern Rwanda.
    • Route Wilderness Magashi Camp → Akagera National Park safari circuits → Lake Rwanyakazinga → Wilderness Magashi Camp.
    • Distance Variable
    • Travel time Full day
    • Start time 06:00 AM
    • Stay 1
    • Overnight Wilderness Magashi Camp.

    Included highlight Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    Wake up to the sounds of the African wilderness and enjoy an early morning safari experience in Akagera National Park.

    Accompanied by an experienced safari guide, explore the park's remarkable habitats in search of its famous wildlife. Akagera is home to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses, alongside giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippos and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife.

    Return to camp for a relaxed breakfast or brunch, depending on the safari schedule.

    Later, enjoy a guided boat safari on Lake Rwanyakazinga, offering a different perspective of the park's aquatic ecosystem. Look out for hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and other wildlife along the shoreline.

    The afternoon can be devoted to additional wildlife exploration, birdwatching or photography before returning to camp for a memorable evening.

    1. Start time 06:00 AM

      Early morning coffee and refreshments.

    2. Start time 06:30 AM

      Morning game drive.

    3. Start time 09:30 AM

      Return to camp for breakfast or brunch.

    4. Start time 11:00 AM

      Relaxation and leisure time.

    5. Start time 02:00 PM

      Lake safari and wildlife observation, subject to scheduling.

    6. Start time 04:00 PM

      Afternoon game drive or guided wildlife photography.

    7. Start time 06:00 PM

      Sunset relaxation at the camp.

    8. Start time 07:30 PM

      Dinner and overnight experience.

    10 days rwanda safari
  4. Day 04

    Day 4 of 5

    JOURNEY TO THE VIRUNGA MOUNTAINS: A LANDSCAPE OF WONDER

    Cross-Country Luxury Drive to Rwanda's Mountain Gorilla Region

    • Transport Private luxury 4x4 SUV
    • Experience duration Full Day
    • Location Musanze and Kinigi, Northern Rwanda.
    • Route Wilderness Magashi Camp → Akagera National Park → Kigali corridor → Musanze → Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
    • Distance 200KM
    • Travel time 4/5 Hours
    • Start time 07:00 AM
    • Stay 1 night
    • Overnight Singita Kwitonda Lodge – Ultra-Luxury Wilderness Lodge.

    Following breakfast, depart Akagera and begin a scenic cross-country journey towards north-western Rwanda.

    As you travel, observe the dramatic transformation of the landscape, from the eastern savannah to Rwanda's characteristic rolling green hills, terraced countryside and volcanic mountain scenery.

    Arrive in the Musanze region, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park and one of Africa's most celebrated mountain gorilla destinations.

    Check into Singita Kwitonda Lodge, an exceptional luxury property set close to the national park and surrounded by beautiful volcanic landscapes.

    Spend the afternoon enjoying the lodge's facilities, private suite and spectacular mountain views. Depending on the arrangements, enjoy a personalised introduction to local conservation initiatives and the cultural heritage of the region.

    In the evening, enjoy a memorable dining experience and a preparatory briefing for the following day's gorilla trekking adventure.

    1. Start time 06:00 AM

      Breakfast and preparation.

    2. Start time 07:00 AM

      Departure from Magashi Camp.

    3. Start time 09:30 AM

      Scenic countryside stop.

    4. Start time 12:00 PM–01:00 PM

      Arrival in the Musanze region, depending on traffic and stops.

    5. Start time 01:00 PM

      Lunch and lodge check-in.

    6. Start time 03:00 PM

      Leisure time and optional lodge experiences.

    7. Start time 05:30 PM

      Gorilla trekking preparation briefing.

    8. Start time 07:30 PM

      Dinner and overnight stay.

    10 days rwanda safari
  5. Day 05

    Day 5 of 5

    MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING: AN EXTRAORDINARY ENCOUNTER

    An Intimate Wildlife Experience in the Mist-Covered Virunga Forest

    • Transport Private 4x4 vehicle for transfers; guided trekking on foot inside the forest.
    • Location Volcanoes National Park, Northern Rwanda.
    • Route Singita Kwitonda Lodge → Volcanoes National Park Headquarters, Kinigi → Designated Gorilla Trekking Trailhead → Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
    • Distance Short lodge-to-headquarters transfer; trekking distance varies according to the gorilla family allocated.
    • Travel time 15 Minutes
    • Start time 06:00 AM
    • Stay 1 night
    • Overnight Singita Kwitonda Lodge.

    Included highlight Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

    Today is dedicated to one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife encounters: mountain gorilla trekking.

    Following an early breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for the official briefing and allocation of your trekking group.

    Accompanied by authorised park guides and trackers, proceed towards the designated trailhead and enter the lush montane forest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.

    The trekking experience can involve walking through bamboo vegetation, steep slopes, muddy trails and dense forest terrain. The duration varies according to the location and movements of the gorillas.

    Once the gorilla family is located, enjoy the permitted observation period, generally one hour, while observing their natural behaviour, social interactions and family dynamics.

    This is a rare opportunity to appreciate the importance of wildlife conservation and Rwanda's internationally recognised gorilla protection initiatives.

    After returning from the forest, transfer back to the lodge for lunch, relaxation and wellness experiences.

    10 days rwanda safari

What to bring

  • CLOTHING
  • - Comfortable lightweight travel clothing.
  • - Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for forest trekking.
  • - Waterproof jacket or lightweight raincoat.
  • - Warm clothing for the cooler mountain evenings.
  • - Comfortable walking trousers.
  • - Casual and smart-casual outfits for luxury lodges and dinners.
  • TREKKING & FOOTWEAR
  • - Waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
  • - Comfortable walking shoes or trainers.
  • - Several pairs of comfortable trekking socks.
  • - Gardening or trekking gloves for vegetation protection.
  • - Gaiters, if available.
  • - A small daypack for forest excursions.
  • PERSONAL ACCESSORIES
  • - Sunglasses.
  • - Sun hat or cap.
  • - Sunscreen.
  • - Insect repellent.
  • - Reusable water bottle.
  • - Personal toiletries.
  • - Small travel towel, if preferred.
  • PHOTOGRAPHY & ELECTRONICS
  • - Camera or smartphone.
  • - Extra camera batteries.
  • - Memory cards.
  • - Binoculars for wildlife observation.
  • - Power bank.
  • - Appropriate charging adapters.
  • TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
  • - Valid passport.
  • - Appropriate Rwanda visa or entry documentation, where required.
  • - Travel insurance documents.
  • - Copies of important travel documents.
  • - Relevant medical information and personal medication.
  • ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
  • - Bring a waterproof bag or protective cover for electronic equipment.
  • - Pack lightweight clothing that can be layered.
  • - Keep essential medication in your hand luggage.
  • - Follow the park guides' instructions during all wildlife encounters.

Good to know

- Gorilla trekking: A valid permit is required. Permits are subject to availability and should be arranged well in advance. The minimum age is 15 years.
- Chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking: These activities involve walking through natural forest terrain. Duration and sightings depend on wildlife movements and weather conditions.
- Fitness: Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking may involve steep, muddy and uneven trails.
- Travel documents: All travellers must carry valid passports and comply with Rwanda's entry and immigration requirements.
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and emergency evacuation cover, is strongly recommended.
- Wildlife sightings: Animals roam freely, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
- Accommodation: The proposed luxury properties are subject to availability and final confirmation. Comparable alternatives may be offered where necessary.
- Weather: Rwanda's climate varies by region. Mountain and rainforest destinations can be cool, wet and misty.
- Itinerary flexibility: Activities and departure times may be adjusted due to weather, park regulations, road conditions or operational requirements.
- Final-day transfers: Please coordinate your international departure time with us. The drive from Nyungwe to Kigali takes approximately 5–6 hours, excluding stops.

What's included

Included

  • ACCOMMODATION
  • - Nine nights in selected luxury hotels, lodges and safari camps.
  • - One night at The Retreat Kigali.
  • - Two nights at Wilderness Magashi Camp, Akagera.
  • - Three nights at Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Volcanoes region.
  • - One night at Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Karongi.
  • - Two nights at One&Only Nyungwe House.
  • TRANSPORTATION & AIRPORT SERVICES
  • - Private airport arrival and departure transfers.
  • - Private luxury 4x4 vehicle throughout the scheduled road journey.
  • - Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
  • - Fuel, parking and applicable vehicle operating expenses.
  • - Luggage assistance during scheduled transfers.
  • - Drinking water during road journeys.
  • WILDLIFE & ADVENTURE EXPERIENCES
  • - Akagera National Park wildlife safari.
  • - Guided game drives.
  • - Lake Rwanyakazinga boat safari, subject to scheduling.
  • - Mountain gorilla trekking arrangements.
  • - Golden monkey trekking arrangements.
  • - Chimpanzee trekking arrangements in Nyungwe.
  • - Nyungwe Canopy Walkway experience.
  • - Selected guided nature and wildlife experiences.
  • CULTURAL & SCENIC EXPERIENCES
  • - Selected Rwandan cultural experiences.
  • - Twin Lakes scenic exploration.
  • - Lake Kivu sightseeing.
  • - Selected tea plantation experience, subject to arrangements.
  • - Selected countryside and photography stops.
  • MEALS & HOSPITALITY
  • - Daily breakfast throughout the journey.
  • - Lunches and dinners according to the selected accommodation packages and confirmed itinerary.
  • - Welcome refreshments upon arrival, where arranged.
  • - Pre-arrival travel coordination.
  • - On-ground guest assistance from CONTINENTAL TRAVEL AND TOURS LTD.
  • TRAVEL MANAGEMENT
  • - Personalised itinerary planning.
  • - Activity and accommodation coordination.
  • - Advance arrangements for applicable park permits.
  • - Assistance with travel information and departure coordination.

Not included

  • FLIGHTS & IMMIGRATION
  • - International flights to and from Rwanda.
  • - Regional or domestic flights not specified in the confirmed itinerary.
  • - Visa fees and immigration charges.
  • - Passport application or renewal expenses.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES
  • - Personal shopping and souvenirs.
  • - Laundry and dry-cleaning services.
  • - Additional beverages and refreshments outside the agreed meal plan.
  • - Spa treatments and personal wellness services.
  • - Telephone calls and personal internet expenses.
  • TRAVEL & MEDICAL
  • - International travel insurance.
  • - Personal medical expenses.
  • - Emergency medical evacuation insurance.
  • - Vaccinations and personal medication.
  • OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
  • - Helicopter transfers and scenic flights.
  • - Additional activities not specified in the confirmed itinerary.
  • - Private photography and specialist wildlife photography services.
  • - Additional excursions and experiences requested during the journey.
  • GRATUITIES & OTHER CHARGES
  • - Tips and gratuities.
  • - Additional accommodation arising from early arrivals or late departures.
  • - Costs resulting from itinerary changes requested by travellers.
  • - Any service not expressly stated in the final confirmed quotation.

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Send us your dates and we will confirm availability, the meeting point and the final price.

Ready to book this tour?

Minimum 6 travellers

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More details (optional)

Meeting point

  • Pick-up time: 08:00 AM
  • Kigali International Airport, Kigali, Rwanda.
  • Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, look for your CONTINENTAL TRAVEL AND TOURS LTD representative holding a personalised welcome sign. Your driver-guide will assist with your luggage and accompany you to your private vehicle.Please provide your flight number, arrival date and estimated landing time in advance. Travellers already in Kigali can arrange a convenient hotel or accommodation pick-up point.Our team will confirm the exact meeting arrangements before your journey begins.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in this 10 Days Rwanda Safari?

This 10 Days Rwanda Safari is designed as a private luxury experience, combining accommodation, private 4x4 transportation, professional driver-guide services, selected meals, wildlife activities and cultural experiences. The itinerary includes visits to Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park. Gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking permits and other activity costs will be clearly specified in your personalised quotation.

Does this Rwanda luxury tour include mountain gorilla trekking?

Yes. Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a key highlight of this 10-day Rwanda tour. You will join an authorised park-guided trekking experience to search for one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. A valid gorilla trekking permit is required and must be secured in advance, subject to availability.

Can I see the Big Five during the Akagera National Park safari?

Akagera National Park is home to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses. The itinerary includes a wildlife safari and an opportunity to explore the park's diverse habitats. Although all five species live in the park, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed because animals move freely in their natural environment.

Does the tour include chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking?

Yes. The itinerary features golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park and chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. Both experiences offer opportunities to observe Rwanda's remarkable primate diversity in natural forest habitats. Trekking duration and sightings depend on animal movements, weather and forest conditions.

What accommodation is provided during the 10-day Rwanda luxury safari?

The proposed luxury accommodation includes The Retreat Kigali, Wilderness Magashi Camp in Akagera, Singita Kwitonda Lodge near Volcanoes National Park, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel in Karongi and One&Only Nyungwe House near Nyungwe Forest. Accommodation is subject to availability and confirmation. Alternative properties of a comparable standard may be proposed where necessary.

What is the best time to take this Rwanda safari and gorilla trekking tour?

Rwanda can be visited throughout the year. The drier periods, generally from June to September and December to February, are often preferred for gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The rainy seasons can offer beautiful green landscapes, although forest trails may become muddy and more challenging. We can help you choose suitable travel dates based on your interests.

Is this 10-day Rwanda tour suitable for couples, families and private groups?

Yes. This is a private, tailor-made Rwanda tour suitable for couples, honeymooners, families with eligible children and small private groups. The itinerary, accommodation category, activities and transportation arrangements can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Please note that gorilla trekking has a minimum age requirement of 15 years.

How physically demanding is gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda?

The overall tour has a moderate difficulty level, but primate trekking can be physically demanding. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking may involve walking through steep, muddy and uneven forest terrain, sometimes for several hours. A reasonable level of fitness, suitable hiking boots and appropriate outdoor clothing are recommended. Trekking routes and durations vary depending on where the animals are located.

Does the tour include private transportation and an English-speaking guide?

Yes. The proposed package includes private 4x4 transportation throughout the scheduled road journey, accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver-guide. This allows you to explore Rwanda comfortably, enjoy scenic stops and travel at a flexible pace. Vehicle arrangements can be adapted to the size of your group and luggage requirements.

How much does the 10 Days Rwanda Luxury Safari cost, and how can I book?

The price is provided on request because this is a private luxury tour with costs depending on travel dates, group size, accommodation availability, trekking permits and selected services. Contact CONTINENTAL TRAVEL AND TOURS LTD with your preferred dates and number of travellers to receive a personalised itinerary and quotation. Early enquiries are recommended, particularly for gorilla trekking permits and premium lodge reservations.

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