10 Day Ultimate Rwanda Highlights: All-Inclusive Adventure

Arrival in Kigali and Kigali city tour

On arrival at Kigali International Airport, Musana tours and Travel Correspondent will welcome and transfer you to your hotel. Full-day tour of the capital city of Kigali, where you will enjoy a guided city tour and visit some interesting, historical sites.

Learn more about Rwanda's heart-rending history at the Genocide Memorial Centre, The free Rwigyema Museum, Richard Kandit Museum, and visit the Nyamata Church. You will also have the opportunity to stroll the colorful markets or buy traditional African handicrafts at the Craft Village.

Spend your evening at one of Rwanda's famous coffee shops for a relaxing sip of African-grown coffee and you look forward to the awaiting adventure in the land of 1000 hills.

Transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, we calmly transfer to the eastern part of the country, The transfer from Kigali to Akagera National Park is a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour journey through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, covering about 120 kilometers. As you leave Kigali’s clean, modern streets, the route unfolds with rolling hills, terraced farms, and bustling villages, offering glimpses of local culture. Upon arrival at Akagera’s southern entrance, you’re welcomed into a park renowned for its diverse ecosystems, from savannah to wetlands, teeming with wildlife. Optional stops for photos or local crafts add charm to this trip, setting the tone for an unforgettable wilderness adventure.

After checking in at your accommodation you will go for an afternoon game drive for a first introduction to Rwanda's wildlife, with chances to spot the big five, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and various bird species, all set against Akagera’s stunning landscapes of savannah, wetlands, and woodlands, After the game drive, return to your lodge located inside the park.

Unforgettable Game Drives & Wildlife Viewing

Early in the morning, we will follow the tracks to Immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of Akagera National Park with thrilling game drives that unveil the heart of Rwanda’s wilderness. Traverse vast savannahs, shimmering lakes, and lush woodlands in search of majestic elephants, towering giraffes, angry-looking Buffalos graceful antelopes, and elusive predators like lions and leopards. Marvel at the park’s vibrant birdlife, from regal fish eagles to colorful kingfishers. Return to the lodge for lunch and in the afternoon we will experience the park from a different perspective with a scenic boat trip along Lake Ihema.

You will float quietly past herds of hippos and huge crocodiles lying lazy on the shores. With every turn, Akagera offers unforgettable encounters and picture-perfect moments for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

Second Game drives in Akagera National Park and Transfer back to Kigali

Begin your day with a second game drive in Akagera National Park, diving deeper into its diverse landscapes and seeking more thrilling wildlife encounters.

As the morning unfolds, watch for lions prowling the savannah, herds of elephants by the lakeshores, or hippos basking in the water. Capture the beauty of zebras, giraffes, and a variety of birds under the soft morning light. After your wildlife adventure, embark on a scenic transfer back to Kigali, enjoying the rolling hills and charming countryside that make Rwanda truly unique. This journey leaves you with lasting memories of Akagera’s wonders and Rwanda’s natural beauty, Spend the late Afternoon at leisure, or utilize it to explore the city at your convenience.

Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park

After breakfast, we depart for the southern region of Rwanda, beginning a journey rich in culture and natural beauty. Our first stop is the Royal Palace Museum in Nyanza, an elegant reconstruction of the traditional monarch’s residence, offering insights into Rwanda’s regal heritage. Continuing to Butare, we visit the Rwanda National Museum, home to one of East Africa’s finest collections, showcasing artifacts, art, and exhibits that vividly depict the country’s history and culture. Here, we’ll also enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Rwandan cuisine.

In the afternoon, the journey takes us to the enchanting Nyungwe Forest, a sprawling, ancient rainforest known for its incredible biodiversity. A haven for bird enthusiasts, Nyungwe boasts over 300 bird species, along with its renowned primates, including colobus monkeys and chimpanzees. The scenic drive and lush surroundings set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of this natural paradise.

Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park is an exhilarating adventure that begins early in the morning. Guided by expert trackers, you’ll navigate the dense rainforest, listening for the distinct calls of chimpanzees. As you trek through the misty forest, you'll encounter a variety of wildlife and plants, heightening the excitement. When you finally spot a troop of chimpanzees, their lively antics and social interactions provide a captivating and intimate glimpse into their lives.

The adventure continues with the Canopy Walk, an iconic experience in Nyungwe. Suspended 60 meters above the forest floor, this 160-meter-long bridge offers breathtaking views of the lush rainforest and distant hills. As you walk across, you’ll be immersed in the canopy, surrounded by birds, butterflies, and epiphytic plants. This unique perspective reveals the forest's incredible biodiversity from above, making it a perfect complement to the ground-level tracking experience. Together, these activities showcase Nyungwe’s unmatched natural beauty and adventure.

return to the lodge tired and ready to rest.

Trasfer from Nyungwe Forest National Park to Lake Kivu

The transfer from Nyungwe Forest National Park to Lake Kivu is a scenic journey that showcases the beauty of Rwanda’s western region. Departing from the lush, biodiversity-rich rainforest of Nyungwe, the drive winds through picturesque tea plantations, rolling hills, and vibrant local villages, offering stunning views of the countryside.

As you approach Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, the scenery transitions to serene waters flanked by green hills. Upon arrival, you can relax by the lake’s tranquil shores, enjoy a refreshing swim, or explore the charming lakeside towns. Known for its pristine beauty, Lake Kivu provides a peaceful retreat after the adventures of the rainforest, with opportunities for boat rides, cultural experiences, or simply unwinding amidst the breathtaking landscapes.

Optional activities"

1. Night Fishing with locals

Experience a 3-hour night fishing adventure on Lake Kivu with local fishermen. Join them in traditional wooden boats as they sing, cast nets, and share their fishing techniques. Immerse yourself in their culture, learn their ways, and enjoy the tranquility of the lake under the starlit sky.

2. Sundowner boat on Lake Kivu,

Enjoy a relaxing sundowner boat cruise on Lake Kivu, where you can unwind as the sun sets over the serene waters. This 1.5 to 2-hour experience offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the tranquil lake. Sip on refreshing drinks, take in the golden hues of the evening sky, and embrace the peaceful atmosphere of one of Africa's most beautiful lakes.

Lake Kivu activities and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park and visit to Ibyiwacu cultural center

In the morning, you have the option to visit the nearby Bralirwa Hot Springs, renowned for its therapeutic qualities and peaceful ambiance. Alternatively, embark on a boat ride across the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, where you'll explore the lake’s small, picturesque islands. One highlight is Agriculture Island, where locals practice sustainable farming, growing crops on terraced slopes that offer spectacular views of the lake and surrounding hills. As you cruise, keep an eye out for the unique sight of swimming cows, which are often seen paddling between the islands. For the more adventurous, consider a hike on one of the islands, where you can walk through lush vegetation, enjoy panoramic views, and spot various bird species that call the islands home. This excursion offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, giving you an unforgettable experience on Lake Kivu. return to the lodge for lunch, After lunch, we will have a short drive to one of the most beautiful national parks of the country, Volcanoes National Park.

Gorilla tracking at volcanoes national park

On this unforgettable day, you will embark on a captivating journey to spend time with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. we will drive to the Starting point where we get the day's briefing about gorilla tracking and conservation efforts, and then Enjoy a scenic hike through the lush, verdant hills of the Virunga Volcanoes, where the beauty of the landscape enhances the adventure. Once you reach the gorillas, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these magnificent creatures up close, while your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights into the specific family’s dynamics and behavior.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Iby'Iwacu village, nestled in the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes. Here, former poachers now play a vital role in preserving Rwanda’s cultural heritage, offering you an immersive experience of traditional Rwandan life. This cultural excursion provides a deeper understanding of the community and their efforts to protect both the environment and wildlife.

From here we will drive back to the lodge for an evening relation dinner and overnight stay.

Volcanoes National Park and Kigali transfer

After your enriching experience at Volcanoes National Park, we will transfer back to Kigali, either to the city or Kigali International Airport, depending on your departure plans. The scenic drive offers a final opportunity to soak in the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, from the rolling hills to the lush valleys. As you travel, enjoy the peaceful rural scenery, with traditional villages and vibrant green fields. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you ample time to reflect on your memorable wildlife experiences, before you reach Kigali, ready for your next adventure or to catch your flight.

Optional activities:

Golden Monkey Tracking

Start your day with an exciting golden monkey tracking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. This early morning excursion takes you into the forest, where expert guides lead you to the lively golden monkeys, a species Endemic to the region. As you trek through the lush bamboo and montane forests, enjoy the opportunity to observe these playful primates in their natural habitat, jumping from tree to tree and interacting with each other. The hike typically lasts around 1 to 4 hours depending on your luck and mobility of the primates, offering an intimate wildlife experience before your transfer. After your golden monkey encounter, Return to the lodge to freshen up and get ready for your transfer back to Kigali, reflecting on this extraordinary experience.