5 Days Rwanda Big Five and Primates Safari

The 5-Day Rwanda Big Five and Primates Safari offers a perfect blend of wildlife adventure and deep cultural exploration across the country. Travelers will witness the legendary Big Five mammals roaming the vast savannahs and meet endangered mountain gorillas within lush forests. This journey connects the rolling plains of the east with the misty volcanic peaks located in the northern region. Each day provides unique opportunities to photograph rare animals and enjoy the peaceful landscapes of the land of a thousand hills. From scenic boat rides to emotional historical visits, this safari captures the very heart of Rwanda. Professional guides ensure every moment remains safe, educational, and deeply moving for every single visitor.

Tour Cost Includes

Gorilla Permits
Accommodations
Meals
Transportation
Activities
Guides

Tour Cost Excludes

Airfare
Additional Meals
Optional Activities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrival and Transfer to Akagera National Park

Your professional driver guide greets you warmly upon your arrival at the busy Kigali International Airport. You begin the scenic three hour drive toward the beautiful Akagera National Park in the eastern region. This park takes its name from the famous Akagera River which flows along the rugged eastern border. You will find a stunning network of lakes including the massive Lake Ihema during your first visit. The group checks into the comfortable Akagera Transit Lodge for a relaxing dinner and a quiet night.

Accommodation: Akagera Transit Lodge

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 02 : Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Ride

The morning starts with an exciting game drive to find nocturnal animals like leopards and striped jackals. You explore the wide plains with a ranger to see graceful zebras, topis, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, rhinos, lions, leopards and bushbucks. The group returns to the lodge to enjoy a hot lunch before the next part of the trip. You will board a boat on Lake Ihema to watch large hippos and very many hungry crocodiles. This lake provides a wonderful home for African fish eagles, colorful kingfishers, and many other bird species.

Accommodation: Akagera Transit Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 03 : Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

You eat a healthy breakfast before leaving Akagera for the long drive to the famous Volcanoes National Park. This park sits within the Virunga mountain range and provides a safe home for rare mountain gorillas. You check into the Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge to enjoy a peaceful lunch and some well-deserved rest. The afternoon features a visit to the nearby crater lakes for amazing views and great wildlife photography. You will see beautiful birds while looking at the massive peaks of the surrounding ancient volcanic mountains.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 04 : Gorilla Tracking

Everyone eats an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a very important safety briefing. You start the challenging hike up the steep volcanic slopes to find a family of mountain gorillas. Finding these gentle giants makes the difficult climb feel very rewarding for every member of the group. You spend one full hour watching the gorillas play and eat in their natural forest home. The evening includes a visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo for more scenic views.

Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 05 : Return to Kigali and City Tour

You travel back to Kigali on a smooth two hour drive after finishing a final safari breakfast. Your city tour includes a trip up Mount Kigali to see the entire city from above. You will walk through the vibrant local market to see how the friendly people of Rwanda live. The guide leads a solemn visit to the Genocide Memorial Site to honor the history of the nation. Your driver takes you to the airport or your hotel to conclude this wonderful five day adventure.

Accommodation: End of Tour

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

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