5 Days Rwanda Safari-Kigali, Akagera and Volcanoes
A 5 Days Rwanda Safari combining Kigali, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park is an excellent way to experience Rwanda’s culture, wildlife, and spectacular mountain landscapes in one trip. This itinerary combines a city experience in Kigali, a classic wildlife safari in Akagera, and the opportunity to explore the Volcanoes region, making it ideal for first-time visitors with limited time.
5 Days Rwanda Safari at a Glance
| Day | Destination | Main Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kigali | Arrival, city tour & cultural experiences |
| Day 2 | Kigali – Akagera | Transfer & afternoon game drive |
| Day 3 | Akagera National Park | Full-day game drive & wildlife viewing |
| Day 4 | Akagera – Volcanoes | Scenic transfer & Volcanoes region |
| Day 5 | Volcanoes – Kigali | Mountain experience & return to Kigali |
Gorilla trekking can be added on Day 5 depending on your flight schedule, but this may require adjusting the itinerary or extending the trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and City Tour
Your 5 Days Rwanda Safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital. Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a short city tour and discover some of Kigali’s cultural and historical attractions.
You can also visit a local market, enjoy traditional Rwandan food, or simply relax at your hotel before beginning your safari.
Overnight: Kigali
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Kigali to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, depart Kigali and travel toward Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda.
The journey takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, with rolling hills, villages, farmland, and scenic landscapes along the way.
After arriving in the Akagera area, enjoy an afternoon game drive. Keep your eyes open for giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife.
Overnight: Akagera
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park
Spend a full day exploring Akagera National Park on a game drive.
The park features savannah plains, woodland, wetlands, and lakes, creating an excellent environment for wildlife viewing. Depending on the season and conditions, you may encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and numerous bird species.
A boat safari on Lake Ihema can also be added as an optional activity, offering a different perspective of the park and opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
Overnight: Akagera
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Akagera to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, leave Akagera and travel toward Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda.
This is one of the most scenic drives of the journey, taking you through Rwanda’s famous rolling hills and countryside.
Upon arrival in the Musanze area, check into your accommodation and relax. If time allows, you can explore the local area or enjoy views of the Virunga Mountains.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Volcanoes National Park to Kigali
Your final day can be planned according to your interests and departure time.
For travelers who have arranged a gorilla trekking permit, the morning can be dedicated to mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This is one of Rwanda’s most famous wildlife experiences and can be the highlight of your trip.
If gorilla trekking is not included, you can consider another activity such as golden monkey trekking, a cultural experience, or a scenic visit around the Volcanoes region.
Later, drive back to Kigali for your departure or onward journey.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Why Choose This 5 Days Rwanda Safari?
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience several sides of Rwanda within a short period.
You can enjoy:
- Kigali city and cultural experiences
- Wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park
- Big Five safari opportunities
- Scenic countryside
- Volcanoes and Virunga mountain landscapes
- Optional gorilla trekking
- Optional Lake Ihema boat safari
- A combination of city, wildlife, and mountain experiences
Best Time for This Rwanda Safari
The 5 Days Rwanda Safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. The drier periods are generally preferred for game drives and trekking because trails and roads can be easier to navigate.
However, Rwanda’s rainy seasons bring lush green landscapes and can also offer rewarding experiences for travelers who are comfortable with occasional rainfall.
Estimated Cost for a 5 Days Rwanda Safari
The total cost depends on your accommodation category, group size, transportation, activities, and whether gorilla trekking is included.
| Safari Style | Approx. Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Budget | US$750–1,100 |
| Mid-Range | US$1,100–1,700 |
| Luxury | US$2,000–3,500+ |
These are approximate planning ranges. Gorilla trekking permits, international flights, and some optional activities can significantly change the final price.
Book Your 5 Days Rwanda Safari with Kiriwe Travel
Ready to explore Rwanda in five days? Kiriwe Travel can organize a personalized 5 Days Rwanda Safari combining Kigali, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park.
Whether you want to focus on wildlife, add gorilla trekking, or enjoy a comfortable private safari, we can tailor the itinerary to your travel dates, budget, and interests.
Book your Rwanda Safari with Kiriwe Travel and experience the best of Kigali, Akagera, and the Volcanoes region in one unforgettable journey.



















