6 Days Rwanda Big Five and Gorilla Safari

Akagera Nationa park and Volcanoes National Park

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Rwanda Big Five & Gorilla Trekking Safari

This safari is designed for travelers who want to experience both savannah wildlife and mountain gorillas in one country. It combines Akagera National Park’s Big Five ecosystem with the famous gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park.

The itinerary provides a complete Rwanda wildlife journey, moving from open grasslands and lakes to volcanic mountain forests while maintaining efficient travel times and premium safari experiences.

What You Actually Experience

Akagera Big Five Safari

  • Lion sightings
  • Elephants and buffalo
  • Giraffes and antelope species
  • Savannah game drives

Lake Ihema Boat Safari

  • Hippos
  • Nile crocodiles
  • Water birds
  • Scenic lake landscapes

Volcanoes National Park

  • Guided gorilla trekking
  • Mountain rainforest
  • Volcanic terrain
  • One hour gorilla encounter with lots of photography momemnts

Scenic Rwanda

  • Rolling hills
  • Countryside drives
  • Volcano views
  • Cultural landscapes

Why Travelers Book This Safari

Complete Rwanda Wildlife Experience

Combine Big Five wildlife viewing and mountain gorilla trekking in one itinerary.

Two Distinct Ecosystems

Experience both savannah and rainforest habitats during one safari.

Time Efficient

See Rwanda's most important wildlife destinations within a single journey.

Less Crowded Routes

Enjoy quieter safari experiences compared to many larger African circuits.

Route Structure

Kigali
Akagera National Park
Volcanoes National Park
Kigali

Day By Day Safari Flow

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Arrival in Kigali and transfer to the Akagera National Park region for overnight stay.
Day 2: Akagera Game Drives
Full day safari searching for lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelope species across Rwanda's largest savannah ecosystem.
Day 3: Boat Safari & Game Drive
Morning boat safari on Lake Ihema followed by an afternoon wildlife drive through Akagera National Park.
Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Travel through Rwanda's scenic countryside toward the volcanic region surrounding Volcanoes National Park.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Experience
Guided mountain gorilla trekking experience with one hour spent observing a habituated gorilla family.
Day 6: Return to Kigali
Transfer back to Kigali for departure or onward travel arrangements.

Safari Reality

Akagera's Recovery

Akagera is a restored Big Five ecosystem with steadily increasing wildlife populations.

Physical Trekking

Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness and can be physically demanding.

Travel Time

Transfers between parks are scenic but involve several hours on the road.

Different Wildlife Density

Savannah and rainforest ecosystems offer completely different wildlife viewing experiences.

Where You Stay

Mid Range

Safari lodges in Akagera and Musanze.

Luxury

Premium lodges with wildlife and mountain views.

High End

Exclusive luxury camps and private safari retreats.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Akagera park fees
  • Boat safari fees
  • Full board accommodation
  • Private 4x4 transport
  • Professional guide

Excluded

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Optional activities

Price Per Person

Mid Range

$3,200 - $4,800 pp

Luxury

$5,500 - $8,000 pp

High End

$8,500 - $12,500+ pp

Start Planning Your Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari

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