Discover the soul of Rwanda on this carefully crafted 5-day Rwanda safari tour that brings together vibrant city life, classic Big Five wildlife viewing, and an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. From Kigali’s powerful history and culture to the wide-open savannas of Akagera National Park and the misty volcanoes of the north, this journey offers a perfect balance of adventure, discovery, and comfort.
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be warmly welcomed by your Joe Wanderlust guide. After a short briefing, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills toward Akagera National Park, home to savannas, lakes, and abundant wildlife. Arrive in time to relax at your lodge and soak in the peaceful surroundings of the park.
📍Overnight: Akagera area lodge
Wake up early for a full-day game drive across Akagera’s diverse landscapes. With some luck, spot the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos - alongside giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and countless bird species.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema, gliding past hippos, crocodiles, and water birds as the sky turns golden.
📍Overnight: Akagera area lodge
After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive before departing Akagera. Travel north through scenic countryside toward Volcanoes National Park, passing local villages and lush landscapes.
Arrive near the park in the evening, where misty volcanoes set the scene for the next day’s extraordinary encounter.
📍Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area lodge
Today is the highlight of your journey, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early briefing by park rangers, trek through forested slopes to meet a habituated gorilla family.
Spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat — a deeply emotional, life-changing experience.
After the trek, return to Kigali for a well-deserved rest.
📍Overnight: Kigali hotel
After breakfast, explore Kigali City, one of Africa’s cleanest and most vibrant capitals. Visit key cultural and historical sites, including markets, art centers, and memorials that tell Rwanda’s powerful story of resilience and hope.
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
This Rwanda safari tour is available year-round, with June–September and December–February being especially popular for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking.
This itinerary can be customized to match your travel style, dates, and budget. Get in touch with Joe Wanderlust to start planning your Rwanda journey.
✔ Private airport pick-up & drop-off
✔ Private 4WD vehicle
✔ Professional local driver-guide
✔ All park entrance fees
✔ Gorilla trekking permit (USD $1,500)
✔ All game drives in Akagera National Park
✔ Sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema
✔ 4 Nights ccommodation - Mid-range
✔ All meals during the safari (full board)
✔ Bottled drinking water during the tour
✔ Kigali city tour with cultural highlights
✔ Government taxes & service charges
✖ International flights
✖ Visa fees
✖ Travel insurance
✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, tips)
✖ Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
✖ Alcoholic drinks
✖ Tips & gratuities
