10 Days Rwanda Safari-Gorillas, Wildlife and Nyungwe
A 10 Days Rwanda Safari combining gorilla trekking, wildlife, and Nyungwe National Park is an ideal way to explore Rwanda beyond its famous mountain gorillas. This itinerary takes you from the vibrant streets of Kigali to the savannahs of Akagera National Park, the volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, and the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe.
Over ten days, you can experience game drives, mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, forest walks, scenic landscapes, and Rwanda’s rich culture at a relaxed pace.
10 Days Rwanda Safari at a Glance
| Day | Destination | Main Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kigali | Arrival and Kigali city experience |
| Day 2 | Kigali – Akagera | Transfer and afternoon game drive |
| Day 3 | Akagera | Full-day wildlife safari |
| Day 4 | Akagera – Volcanoes | Scenic transfer to Musanze |
| Day 5 | Volcanoes | Gorilla trekking |
| Day 6 | Volcanoes | Golden monkeys, hiking or cultural experience |
| Day 7 | Volcanoes – Lake Kivu | Scenic drive and lakeside relaxation |
| Day 8 | Lake Kivu – Nyungwe | Scenic transfer and rainforest experience |
| Day 9 | Nyungwe | Chimpanzee trekking and forest activities |
| Day 10 | Nyungwe – Kigali | Return to Kigali and departure |
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Your 10 Days Rwanda Safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s lively capital.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed city tour and discover some of Kigali’s cultural attractions, local markets, art, and restaurants. You can also use the day to rest after your journey.
Overnight: Kigali
Day 2: Kigali to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, depart Kigali and drive toward Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda.
The journey takes you through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, with rolling hills, villages, farmland, and beautiful views. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park. Look out for giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife.
Overnight: Akagera
Day 3: Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Akagera
Spend a full day exploring Akagera National Park on a game drive.
Akagera offers a classic African safari experience with savannahs, woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. The park is home to elephants, lions, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and many other species. You can also add a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you may see hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and other wildlife around the shoreline.
Overnight: Akagera
Day 4: Akagera to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, leave Akagera and travel toward Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. The journey takes you across Rwanda’s beautiful countryside and gradually toward the Virunga Mountains.
After arriving in the Musanze area, check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. If time allows, you can explore the local surroundings or enjoy views of the volcanic mountains.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is one of the major highlights of your 10 Days Rwanda Safari. After an early breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park for your gorilla trekking experience. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, you will hike through the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, you will have a memorable opportunity to observe these remarkable animals in their natural environment.
After the trek, return to your lodge and relax.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area
Day 6: Explore the Volcanoes Region
Today gives you time to experience another side of the Volcanoes region. You can choose golden monkey trekking, a cultural experience, hiking, or another nature activity depending on your interests.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a relaxed day at your lodge and take in the spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains.
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park area
Day 7: Volcanoes to Lake Kivu
After breakfast, leave the Volcanoes region and travel toward Lake Kivu. The journey offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s famous hills and countryside. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy time beside the lake.
Depending on your interests, you can take a boat ride, enjoy a lakeside walk, explore the local area, or simply relax.
Overnight: Lake Kivu
Day 8: Lake Kivu to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, continue your journey toward Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda.
The drive along Lake Kivu and through the surrounding countryside offers spectacular scenery. As you approach Nyungwe, the landscape changes from rolling hills to dense rainforest. After arrival, enjoy a relaxed afternoon or take part in a short forest experience if time permits.
Overnight: Nyungwe area
Day 9: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe
Today is dedicated to exploring Nyungwe National Park, one of Rwanda’s most important rainforest destinations. Begin with an early morning chimpanzee trekking experience. Accompanied by experienced guides, you will walk through the forest in search of chimpanzees and other primates.
Nyungwe is also home to numerous bird species, butterflies, orchids, and other forest wildlife. Depending on your schedule, you can also enjoy the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway or another forest activity.
Overnight: Nyungwe area
Day 10: Nyungwe to Kigali
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kigali.
The drive allows you to enjoy more views of Rwanda’s beautiful countryside. Depending on your departure time, you can have a final meal in Kigali, do some shopping, or enjoy a short city experience before heading to the airport.
Your 10 Days Rwanda Safari ends in Kigali after an adventure covering Rwanda’s wildlife, gorillas, rainforest, mountains, and culture.
Why Choose This 10 Days Rwanda Safari?
This itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to Rwanda and combines several of the country’s most memorable experiences:
- Kigali city experience
- Akagera National Park
- Big Five wildlife viewing
- Full-day game drives
- Optional Lake Ihema boat safari
- Volcanoes National Park
- Mountain gorilla trekking
- Golden monkey trekking
- Lake Kivu
- Nyungwe National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Rainforest experiences
- Scenic countryside and mountain landscapes
Estimated Cost for a 10 Days Rwanda Safari
The cost of a 10 Days Rwanda Safari depends on accommodation, group size, travel season, transportation, and selected activities.
| Safari Style | Approx. Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Budget | US$1,800–2,600 |
| Mid-Range | US$2,600–4,000 |
| Luxury | US$4,500–7,000+ |
These are approximate planning ranges. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits, accommodation category, and other selected activities can significantly affect the final price.
Best Time for a 10 Days Rwanda Safari
A 10 Days Rwanda Safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. The drier months are generally preferred for game drives and trekking because trails and roads can be easier to navigate.
The wetter months can also be rewarding, especially for travelers who enjoy lush green scenery, photography, birdwatching, and quieter travel conditions.
Because the itinerary includes both savannah and rainforest environments, it is important to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Book Your 10 Days Rwanda Safari with Kiriwe Travel
Ready to explore Rwanda beyond the gorillas? Kiriwe Travel can organize a personalized 10 Days Rwanda Safari combining Akagera, Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, Nyungwe, and Kigali.
Whether you are interested in wildlife, gorilla trekking, chimpanzees, rainforest adventures, or scenic landscapes, we can tailor the itinerary to your travel dates, budget, and interests.
Book your Rwanda Safari with Kiriwe Travel and experience gorillas, wildlife, rainforest, mountains, and culture in one unforgettable journey
