Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
Discover the natural highlights of Rwanda's national parks
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
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Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park
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Enjoy an exclusive use area of the park from Magashi Camp
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A full safari experience in Rwanda's stunning landscapes
What's included
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Gorilla trekking permit
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Four days in beautiful Akagera National Park
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Private transfers and luxury accommodation throughout
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Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
An epic trip including a full Rwandan safari and two days tracking mountain gorillas. Your adventure begins with a night in Kigali. Head out to explore or simply relax in comfort and prepare for the excitement of the next few days.
During your stay in Akagera National Park you can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants and even rhino. You’ll also have the opportunity to marvel at the open plains, woodlands and swampy areas and all the other animals that call these places home.
The park is the biggest protected wetland in Central Africa and has one of the highest densities of hippos as well as more than 520 bird species.
After that, it’s on to Volcanoes National Park and the iconic mountain gorillas. Trekking to spend time near these majestic animals makes for an incredibly memorable experience.
Example trip itinerary
Kigali
Transfer
Private transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Kigali
Accommodation in Kigali
- 11 rooms
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Gym
- Spa
The Retreat by Heaven is a charming and inviting small boutique hotel, recognised as Kigali’s first entirely solar-powered resort, as well as maintaining countless other eco-friendly credentials throughout its make up, including locally crafted sustainable teak wood furniture. The hotel enjoys a great location on a quiet and peaceful, tree-lined street in the Kiyovu neighbourhood of the city, and is just minutes from the city centre, ensuring it’s in a prime location for discovering Kigali.
At the centre of everything The Retreat does is its people, and support and development of the local community are important parts of its operation. Through various programmes they hope to help develop future leaders in Rwanda’s fast-growing hospitality industry.
Guests will have a choice of 11 expansive rooms, with features such as peaked ceilings, front and rear private patios, bathrooms with indoor and outdoor rain showers, and air conditioning. The interior of each room is light, airy and spacious, featuring plenty of wood for a natural vibe, as well as touches of local art and decoration to add an element of tradition.
There’s a fantastic on-site restaurant in which to indulge, known as Fusion. Blending international cuisine with local Rwandan and African flavours with a focus on quality local ingredients, the restaurant is set beside the hotel’s inviting saltwater swimming pool. Guests can find further relaxation in the shape of the hotel’s spa, giving them the chance to nurture themselves across a range of skincare or massage treatments, as well as relax in the Jacuzzi or sauna.
- 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.
Overnight in Kigali
Enjoy a night in Kigali, you'll have our list of recommended restaurants and attractions to make sure you make the most of your time here.
Transfer
Transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park
Accommodation in Akagera National Park
- 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.
Four days exploring 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.
Transfer
Transfer from Akagera National Park to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park
Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
- 8 guest cottages
- Main lodge with restaurant, bar & lounge
- In-room massage
- WiFi (in main lodge only)
- Gift Shop, Library
Seated in the foothills of the Virunga mountains there are three things to look forward to when staying at the Wilderness Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge: breath-taking views from every angle, warm and helpful staff, and seeing the captivating mountain gorillas in their wild natural habitat on your daily treks.
The eight spacious standalone cottages are decorated in a homely style and their seclusion really adds to the ample and individual privacy here. On the other hand the big fireplaces, appealing lounges, library, dining area and curio shop of the main lodge give the whole property a warm and convivial personality, and where guests can relax and talk excitedly over the exploits of their day.
Again, the staff do their utmost to assist you in whatever way they can and the food served at Sabyinyo is delicious and surprisingly elegant for its far-flung setting. On the whole Sabyinyo is a fantastically sophisticated and friendly base to explore this very poignant part of Africa.
- 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.
- 21 guest lodges and suites
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa and wellness centre
- Coffee tasting
- Guided nature walks
- Gorilla treks
Embraced by a warren of eucalyptus trees and resting at the base of the Virunga Volcano Range, this secluded pocket of exceptional bliss and natural beauty is set in the depths of a protected haven – one where the majestic mountain gorilla still resides.
An outstanding addition to One&Only’s collection, this cradle of meticulously curated design blends into the ethereal backcloth of mist-laden jungle and blue-hued peaks, presenting 21 lodges and suites. The luxurious accommodation, balanced on wooden poles above the botanical garden, places you in the midst of the Virunga rainforest, with sprawling viewing decks, outdoor tubs and floor-to-ceiling windows. Tasteful interiors draw on varied wooden features, warm colour schemes, patterned materials, and some options offer fire-pits and private pools.
Maintaining the same soothing theme and merging the peripheral environment with the internal, the on-site restaurant, Nest, draws on seasonal, local produce from the surrounding organic gardens to create Rwandan-inspired dishes. The connected bar features a charming lounge, looking out onto the grounds, complete with a fireplace for the cooler months.
Witnessing an endangered Rwandan mountain gorilla during your stay is the ultimate highlight, and Gorilla’s Nest can arrange permits and guided treks to see them amidst bamboo forests along with endemic golden monkeys and an affluence of bird species. Additionally, you can gain insight into the local culture, with visits to nearby villages, sample coffee from the region and dabble in a restoring treatment, yoga class or meditation session at the sublime spa and wellness centre.
- Eight suites
- Four-bedroom villa
- Main lodge
The much anticipated Kwitonda Lodge opened in August 2019, and is Singita’s first foray into Rwanda, bringing with it their celebrated philosophy of sustainable luxury.
Located in a prized 178-acre parcel of lush meadows and wetlands right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park with magnificent views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes, there are eight suites and a four-bedroom villa, Kataza House. Architects and interior designers are selecting locally sourced and produced materials while the local community has been engaged in building using traditional techniques. A light footprint is central to the project, embodying the gentleness and humility of the great silverback from which the lodge takes its name. Singita has a long-term approach to conservation, and part of the plan is to plant thousands of trees around the lodge.
As well as treks into the park to spend time with the gorillas, for which the Kwitonda Lodge is ideally located, you will be able explore the montane forests of Nyungwe National Park, see the rare Golden Monkey and visit the local community. Guests will also have the chance to expand the gorillas’ habitat by helping out with the lodge’s tree planting and habitat restoration project. And, with Tanzania’s Serengeti just a short hop across Lake Victoria to the east, Kwitonda Lodge brings the opportunity for a ‘Singita only’ safari experience combining gorillas and the astounding Grumeti Reserve.
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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
One gorilla permit and one golden monkey trek are included during your time at 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.
Transfer
Road transfer to Kigali airport
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.
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Complete Safari and Gorilla Adventure in Rwanda
How we work
An epic trip including a full Rwandan safari and two days tracking mountain gorillas. Your adventure begins with a night in Kigali. Head out to explore or simply relax in comfort and prepare for the excitement of the next few days. During your stay in Akagera National Park you can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants and even rhino. You’ll also have the opportunity to marvel at the open plains, woodlands and swampy areas and all the other animals that call these places home. The park is the biggest protected wetland in Central Africa and has one of the highest densities of hippos as well as more than 520 bird species. After that, it’s on to Volcanoes National Park and the iconic mountain gorillas. Trekking to spend time near these majestic animals makes for an incredibly memorable experience. | Whats included?
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Days 1-2 |
Kigali |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Kigali |
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Accommodation in Kigali
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The Retreat by Heaven - $$$$$
The Retreat by Heaven is a charming and inviting small boutique hotel, recognised as...
•
Kigali Serena Hotel - $$$$$
A very comfortable business-style hotel in central Kigali and only ten kilometres from the...
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| Overnight in Kigali Enjoy a night in Kigali, you'll have our list of recommended restaurants and attractions to make sure you make the most of your time here. |
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Flights & transfers
Transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park |
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Days 2-5 |
Akagera National Park |
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Accommodation in Akagera National Park
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Wilderness Magashi Camp - $$$$$
In the north-eastern section of Akagera National Park you’ll find Wilderness Magashi...
|
|
| Four days exploring Akagera National Park Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, some very large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera now also boasts a healthy population of lion, which were reintroduced into the park in 2015 after a 20-year absence, as well as black rhino which were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard. |
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Flights & transfers
Transfer from Akagera National Park to Volcanoes National Park |
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Days 5-8 |
Volcanoes National Park |
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Accommodation in Volcanoes National Park
•
Wilderness Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge - $$$$$
Seated in the foothills of the Virunga mountains there are three things to look forward to...
•
Wilderness Bisate Lodge - $$$$$
The spectacular Wilderness Bisate Lodge is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded...
•
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest - $$$$$
Embraced by a warren of eucalyptus trees and resting at the base of the Virunga Volcano Range,...
•
Singita Kwitonda Lodge - $$$$$
The much anticipated Kwitonda Lodge opened in August 2019, and is Singita’s first foray into...
|
|
| 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. |
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| Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park One gorilla permit and one golden monkey trek are included during your time at 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. |
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Flights & transfers
Road transfer to Kigali airport |
