Experience the highlights of Rwanda's safari scene in 10 days as you come up close with a bewildering array of species.
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
-
Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park
-
Access the chimps-rich habitat of Nyungwe
-
Enjoy an exclusive use area of the park from Magashi Camp
-
Experience unforgettable gorilla encounters at Volcanoes National Park
What's included
-
Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
-
All internal flights and transfers
-
Chimpanzee and gorilla tracking permits
-
Luxury, sustainable accommodation throughout
At a glance
On this expedition, you get to experience Rwanda‘s finest national parks. Of the many once-in-a-lifetime experiences on your itinerary, you will be able to come up close with endangered mountain gorillas, go chimpanzee trekking and stay in some of the region’s most luxurious lodges. Keep your binoculars in hand and discover one of Africa’s most genuine hidden gems!
You begin in Kigali – Rwanda’s capital city. Kigali is emerging as one of Africa’s hippest destinations with a thriving art scene. This is also where you get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle.
From here, you will enjoy a helicopter transfer to your next stop – Akagera National Park. On this exclusive experience, you get to witness Africa’s highest hippo density, large crocodiles, as well as a variety of bird species. Prepare for a scene that will blow you away as the reserve is also home to a healthy population of lions, as well as black rhino and leopards.
Board for your next adventure as you set foot in Nyungwe for even more incredible sights. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, the mountainous region also serves as an untamed habitat for chimpanzees, as well as other species of primates. You’ll also get to visit a tea plantation to learn about the world-class tea made here.
The final (and most awaited) stop – the thick jungles of Volcanoes National Park, where you go on treks in search of gorillas. You will also get to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Other outdoor activities include trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike.
This expedition to Rwanda’s national parks can be specially crafted to suit your interests, creating a memorable trip for everyone.
Example trip itinerary
Kigali
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Kigali
Kigali Serena Hotel
- 148 rooms (a/c, satellite TV, wifi)
- Restaurant
- Cafe and bar
- Lounge
- Swimming pool and deck
- Gardens
- Health club
A very comfortable business-style hotel in central Kigali and only ten kilometres from the city’s international airport, this is a good option for those passing through onto other destinations or to relax before your flight home.
A good and efficient level of facilities means you don’t have to go far for beverage, swim, stroll or meal and the staff are always very helpful here.

You will be met with your private guide and explore the city of Kigali, including the Genocide Museum.
Transfer
Private transfer to Kigali airport
Transfer
Helicopter transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park
Magashi Camp
- Six tents
- Lounge
- Dining and bar area
- Pool
- Deck and fire pit
- Boating excursions
- Game drives
- Night game drives
- Birdwatching
In the north-eastern section of Akagera National Park you’ll find Wilderness Magashi Camp overlooking the stunning Lake Rwanyakazinga. The camp is surrounded by some of East Africa’s most beautiful savannah, lakes, swamps and rolling grasslands.
The camp, with design and interiors inspired by traditional Rwandan culture, boasts six spacious tents with lake views. When you’re not enjoying the solitude of your airy tent, relax in the luxurious lounge, enjoy a meal in the dining and bar area. The pool is the ideal place to cool off after a busy day of game viewing and birdwatching, and evenings are best spent on the deck around the fire pit.
The region is also home to one of the continent’s largest hippo populations, as well as crocodiles. You’ll also find the rare sitatunga and other plains game here as well as over 520 different species of bird. After a 20-year absence, lions were reintroduced to the area in 2015, and the population today is thriving. Black rhino were reintroduced in 2017.

Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, some very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera now also boasts a healthy population of lion, which were reintroduced into the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhino which were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard.
Transfer
Helicopter transfer from Akagera National Park to Nyungwe
Nyungwe National Park
One&Only Nyungwe House
- Chimpanzee treks
- Mountain biking
- Cultural experiences
- Yoga
- Spa and fitness centre
- 22 rooms and suites
- Tea lounge, bar and restaurant
Low and wide amid the leaves of its very own tea plantation surrounded by ancient rainforest, Nyungwe House’s modern architecture is a wonderful contrast to its verdant setting.
There are 22 rooms and suites split between six wooden villas, with vast windows and private decks opening up into the forest. There are open fireplaces in each and every room and suite, with interiors and artwork inspired by the nature and traditions of Rwanda.
The main lodge building is home to lounge areas, bar and dining space where you can enjoy sun-rise breakfast (or, for late risers, all day à la carte brunches in your room) and mouth-watering, organic, garden-to-plate menus at dinner, with lunches usually enjoyed while out exploring.
Nyungwe Forest, an ancient place of majestic mahoganies, giant ferns and delicate orchids, is renowned for its wide diversity of animal species and the lodge has a variety of treks available for those wishing to see chimpanzees, white colobus, grey-cheeked, golden and rare Mangabey monkeys. You can also take to the heights of the nearby canopy walk, ride mountain bikes, take a day trip to the waters of Lake Kivu or immerse yourself in the local culture on a range of tailored experiences that will give you an insight into crafts, cuisine and more.

Spend your days here at Nyungwe National Park on exciting safari tours, discovering this lush, ancient land. Explore the famous forest canopy, East Africa's only canopy walk, getting up-close to the impressive birdlife and myriad of resident primates as you wander above the treetops for a bird's eye view of forest life. Visit a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here and go chimp trekking in nearby Cyamudongo Forest. Then, delve deep into Nyungwe forest on hiking trails to discover the numerous Albertine Rift endemics and the largest troop of Black and White Colobus found anywhere in Africa.

This morning you will be collected from your lodge early for your chimp trekking tour nearby Cyamudongo Forest. After approximately an hour's journey, you will arrive at this small forest which was historically connected to Nyungwe. Here you will meet the resident habituated chimpanzee group before visiting a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here.
Transfer
Helicopter transfer from Nyungwe National Park to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park
Bisate Lodge
- Six forest villas
- Dining area and bar
- Spa
- Tree nursery
- Gorilla treks
- Forest hikes and village walks
- Golden monkey treks
- Tree planting
- Visit Dian Fossey's research camp
Utterly unique in its design, six sumptuous forest villas are luxurious while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of the surrounding country. Each has a generous yet intimate combination of bedroom, reception space and bathroom, heated by a central fireplace and a private deck looking out to Mount Bisoke.
The spherical stone and thatch architecture, said to be inspired by the Royal Palace of traditional monarchs, continues through to the communal areas such as the dining room, bar and spa, detailed with a variety of woven materials, local crafts and more modern touches.
Wilderness Bisate is a short drive to the national park’s headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily, and you can also embark upon forest hikes to see rare Golden Monkeys and other wildlife. Visit the site of Dian Fossey’s research camp and grave, meet the community on guided village walks, plant a tree as part of the Wilderness Bisate’s reforestation project or perhaps tag along with the chef to the local market to buy ingredients for dinner.

Spend your days here in the magnificent Volcanoes National Park tracking the rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas with expert guides and trackers. In Rwanda there are 10 habituated gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, with a maximum of 8 tracking permits per group per day. Other activities to enjoy whilst in this magical terrain are; trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike. Speak to your travel designer about how you wish to spend your time here.

Rwanda is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy close personal encounters with Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The forested slopes of the Virunga massif – a chain of ancient volcanoes – are home to over half the world’s 880 remaining gorillas. There are, in total, 10 habituated groups available for tracking by tourists in Volcanoes National Park, and each morning eight permit holders are allocated one group.
You will hike to the spot where your gorilla family was last seen the previous day. All tracker guides are experienced in looking for signs of the gorillas’ location, for example, footprints, dung, chewed bamboo and celery stalks, as well as nightly abandoned nests.
Once the gorillas are located, probably smelling them before seeing them, the group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with the family. You are likely to reach their location during their long midday rest and play period. At this time of day, the dominant male (usually a silverback) generally lounges on the ground or against a tree while youngsters roll in the vegetation and climb on trees, vines, and each other. Females nurse and play with their infants. It is entirely possible that you will find the gorillas quite quickly and be back at your hotel for lunch; or you could face a three or four hour hike (sometimes even longer) each way.
Transfer
Helicopter transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Best of Rwanda's National Parks
How we work
On this expedition, you get to experience Rwanda‘s finest national parks. Of the many once-in-a-lifetime experiences on your itinerary, you will be able to come up close with endangered mountain gorillas, go chimpanzee trekking and stay in some of the region’s most luxurious lodges. Keep your binoculars in hand and discover one of Africa’s most genuine hidden gems! You begin in Kigali – Rwanda’s capital city. Kigali is emerging as one of Africa’s hippest destinations with a thriving art scene. This is also where you get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle. From here, you will enjoy a helicopter transfer to your next stop – Akagera National Park. On this exclusive experience, you get to witness Africa’s highest hippo density, large crocodiles, as well as a variety of bird species. Prepare for a scene that will blow you away as the reserve is also home to a healthy population of lions, as well as black rhino and leopards. Board for your next adventure as you set foot in Nyungwe for even more incredible sights. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, the mountainous region also serves as an untamed habitat for chimpanzees, as well as other species of primates. You’ll also get to visit a tea plantation to learn about the world-class tea made here. The final (and most awaited) stop – the thick jungles of Volcanoes National Park, where you go on treks in search of gorillas. You will also get to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Other outdoor activities include trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike. This expedition to Rwanda’s national parks can be specially crafted to suit your interests, creating a memorable trip for everyone.
| Whats included?
|
Days 1-3 |
Kigali |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Kigali |
|
Kigali Serena Hotel
•
Kigali Serena Hotel - $$$$$
A very comfortable business-style hotel in central Kigali and only ten kilometres from the...
|
|
Kigali City Tour You will be met with your private guide and explore the city of Kigali, including the Genocide Museum. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Kigali airport |
|
Helicopter transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park | |
Days 3-6 |
Akagera National Park |
Magashi Camp
•
Wilderness Magashi Camp - $$$$$
In the north-eastern section of Akagera National Park you’ll find Wilderness Magashi...
|
|
Days in Akagera National Park Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, some very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera now also boasts a healthy population of lion, which were reintroduced into the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhino which were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard. |
|
Flights & transfers
Helicopter transfer from Akagera National Park to Nyungwe |
|
Days 6-8 |
Nyungwe National Park |
One&Only Nyungwe House
•
One&Only Nyungwe House - $$$$$
Low and wide amid the leaves of its very own tea plantation surrounded by ancient rainforest,...
|
|
Days on safari at Nyungwe National Park Spend your days here at Nyungwe National Park on exciting safari tours, discovering this lush, ancient land. Explore the famous forest canopy, East Africa's only canopy walk, getting up-close to the impressive birdlife and myriad of resident primates as you wander above the treetops for a bird's eye view of forest life. Visit a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here and go chimp trekking in nearby Cyamudongo Forest. Then, delve deep into Nyungwe forest on hiking trails to discover the numerous Albertine Rift endemics and the largest troop of Black and White Colobus found anywhere in Africa. |
|
Chimp Trekking Tour in Nyungwe This morning you will be collected from your lodge early for your chimp trekking tour nearby Cyamudongo Forest. After approximately an hour's journey, you will arrive at this small forest which was historically connected to Nyungwe. Here you will meet the resident habituated chimpanzee group before visiting a tea plantation to learn about the world class tea made here. |
|
Flights & transfers
Helicopter transfer from Nyungwe National Park to Volcanoes National Park |
|
Days 8-10 |
Volcanoes National Park |
Bisate Lodge
•
Wilderness Bisate Lodge - $$$$$
The spectacular Wilderness Bisate Lodge is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded...
|
|
Days exploring Volcanoes National Park Spend your days here in the magnificent Volcanoes National Park tracking the rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas with expert guides and trackers. In Rwanda there are 10 habituated gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, with a maximum of 8 tracking permits per group per day. Other activities to enjoy whilst in this magical terrain are; trekking to volcano craters, tracking golden monkeys, cultural tours and the Dian Fossey Hike. Speak to your travel designer about how you wish to spend your time here. |
|
Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy close personal encounters with Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The forested slopes of the Virunga massif – a chain of ancient volcanoes – are home to over half the world’s 880 remaining gorillas. There are, in total, 10 habituated groups available for tracking by tourists in Volcanoes National Park, and each morning eight permit holders are allocated one group. You will hike to the spot where your gorilla family was last seen the previous day. All tracker guides are experienced in looking for signs of the gorillas’ location, for example, footprints, dung, chewed bamboo and celery stalks, as well as nightly abandoned nests. Once the gorillas are located, probably smelling them before seeing them, the group will be allowed a maximum of one hour with the family. You are likely to reach their location during their long midday rest and play period. At this time of day, the dominant male (usually a silverback) generally lounges on the ground or against a tree while youngsters roll in the vegetation and climb on trees, vines, and each other. Females nurse and play with their infants. It is entirely possible that you will find the gorillas quite quickly and be back at your hotel for lunch; or you could face a three or four hour hike (sometimes even longer) each way. |
|
Flights & transfers
Helicopter transfer from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali |