THE AUTHENTIC VISIT RWANDA SAFARIS -12 DAYS

After enjoying breakfast at 9:00 AM, a guide will be waiting for you at the hotel to start your Kigali City tour. You will begin by exploring the Kigali City Center, taking a leisurely walk through the car-free zone and admiring the Yellow-billed Storks in the trees at different viewpoints. After some time, you will drive to the next car-free zone in Biryogo, a popular spot for families and friends to enjoy food and drinks, especially the green tea and Chapati with beans. Next, you will visit Mount Kigali for a panoramic view of the city before heading to Africa Bite restaurant for a delicious lunch of local cuisine. In the afternoon, you will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about the tragic events that took place in Rwanda in 1994. Finally, you will explore Kimironko market, one of the few remaining local markets in Kigali, before returning to your hotel.
Activity: Kigali City tour
Overnight at Lemigo Hotel

Day 2 of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” is dedicated to exploring the wildlife and natural beauty of Akagera National Park. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Early Departure: You will be picked up from Lemigo Hotel early in the morning, likely around sunrise, to maximize your time in Akagera National Park.
• Travel to Akagera: The journey to Akagera National Park will take you through scenic landscapes, providing an opportunity to observe rural life and the changing scenery of Rwanda.

Daytime Activities:

• Game Drives: Upon arrival at Akagera National Park, you will embark on a thrilling game drive. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and various antelope species such as impala and topi.
• Exploration: You will start by exploring the southern part of the park. Your experienced guide will lead you through different habitats, pointing out wildlife and sharing insights into their behaviors and conservation efforts.
• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Akagera. This is a perfect time to relax and soak in the sights and sounds of the park.

Afternoon Activities:

• Northern Part Journey: After lunch, you will continue your game drive towards the northern part of Akagera National Park.
• Wildlife Spotting: The northern part of the park offers different landscapes and wildlife sightings. Keep your eyes peeled for more animal encounters and birdwatching opportunities.
• Arrival at Karenge Bush Camp: In the late afternoon, you will arrive at Karenge Bush Camp, your accommodation for the night. This camp offers a rustic yet comfortable experience, allowing you to connect more intimately with nature.

Evening:

• Dinner and Relaxation: After settling into Karenge Bush Camp, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients. Spend the evening relaxing around a campfire under the starry African sky, sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers and guides.

Accommodation: Karenge Bush Camp provides a unique bush experience, with comfortable tents or lodges that blend into the natural surroundings, offering a peaceful and immersive stay in the heart of Akagera National Park.

Day 2 of the tour not only offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities but also immerses you in the serene and untamed beauty of Rwanda’s national parks, setting the stage for the adventurous days ahead in this captivating country.

Day Three of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” continues the adventure with a transition from Akagera National Park to Musanze, a region known for its stunning landscapes and proximity to Volcanoes National Park. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Morning Game Drive: Begin your day with an early morning game drive in Akagera National Park. This is an optimal time to spot wildlife as they are most active during the cooler hours of the morning. Your guide will help you navigate through the park, ensuring you have the best chances to observe animals in their natural habitats.

Midday:

• Lunch: After the game drive, enjoy a delicious lunch in Akagera National Park or on the way to Musanze. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on the wildlife experiences of the morning.

Afternoon:

• Scenic Drive to Musanze: Depart from Akagera National Park and embark on a scenic drive to Musanze. Along the way, you will pass through picturesque landscapes, rural villages, and possibly stop at viewpoints to admire the beauty of Rwanda’s countryside.

Evening:

• Arrival at Five Volcanoes Hotel: Upon reaching Musanze, check into Five Volcanoes Hotel, your accommodation for the night. This hotel offers comfortable rooms and amenities, situated amidst the stunning backdrop of the Virunga Mountains.

Dinner and Relaxation: After settling in, enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring a variety of local and international dishes. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the exciting activities planned for the following days.

Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Hotel provides a cozy and tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and recharge after a day of exploration. The hotel’s location near Volcanoes National Park sets the stage for upcoming adventures, including gorilla trekking and cultural experiences.

Day Three sets the stage for further exploration of Rwanda’s natural wonders, offering a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and comfortable accommodations in preparation for the next chapters of your journey.

Day Four of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” is filled with immersive cultural experiences and scenic explorations around Musanze. Here’s a detailed itinerary for this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Five Volcanoes Hotel, preparing you for the day’s activities.

• Twin Lakes Tour: Depart from Musanze for a scenic 30-minute drive to the Twin Lakes region, consisting of Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. These twin lakes are surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offer stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes in the background.

• Community Village Walk: Upon arrival, embark on a leisurely 1.5-hour walk around a local community village. This walk provides insights into rural life in Rwanda, as well as opportunities to interact with locals and learn about their daily activities.

Midday:

• Lunch: After the village walk, enjoy lunch at a scenic spot overlooking Lake Burera or Lake Ruhondo. You can savor local cuisine while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the lakeside.

Afternoon:

• Boat Ride on Lake Ruhondo: Following lunch, embark on a boat ride on Lake Ruhondo. This relaxing excursion allows you to appreciate the serene beauty of the lake and its surroundings. You may spot local fishermen at work and enjoy views of the volcanic peaks reflected in the clear waters.

• Visit to the Power Plant: After the boat ride, visit the power plant located between Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. Learn about the local infrastructure and the role of hydroelectric power in the region’s development.

• Banana Beer Making Experience: In the afternoon, head to the Iby’iwacu cultural village for a unique cultural experience – learning about and participating in the traditional process of making banana beer. This alcoholic beverage is an integral part of Rwandan culture and is made from fermented bananas.

Evening:

• Dinner: Return to Five Volcanoes Hotel for dinner. Enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring a blend of Rwandan and international cuisines.

Accommodation: Spend another night at Five Volcanoes Hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s cultural encounters and natural beauty.

Day Four of the tour offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion and scenic exploration, allowing you to delve into Rwanda’s rich traditions while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the Twin Lakes region. This day sets the stage for further adventures in the days to come, including gorilla trekking and more wildlife encounters in Volcanoes National Park.

Day Five of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” is dedicated to exploring the legacy of Dian Fossey and the natural wonders of Volcanoes National Park. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Start your day with an early breakfast at Five Volcanoes Hotel, ensuring you are energized for the day’s activities.

• Visit to Dian Fossey’s Gravesite: Depart from the hotel and drive to the trailhead leading to Dian Fossey’s gravesite. Dian Fossey was a renowned primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Her gravesite is located in a serene and picturesque setting within Volcanoes National Park.

• Hike to Karisoke Research Center: Embark on a memorable outdoor adventure with a three-hour hike to the Karisoke Research Center. Named after the nearby Karisimbi and Bisoke volcanoes, this research center was established by Dian Fossey and now serves as a museum showcasing her incredible legacy and ongoing conservation efforts.

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Volcanoes National Park. This is an opportunity to rest and refuel surrounded by the lush forests and volcanic scenery.

Afternoon:

• Return to Five Volcanoes Hotel: After exploring Dian Fossey’s gravesite and the Karisoke Research Center, return to Five Volcanoes Hotel.

• Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel. You can take in the views of the Virunga Mountains, unwind with a book, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the hotel surroundings.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of dishes prepared with local ingredients.

Accommodation: Spend another night at Five Volcanoes Hotel, appreciating its comfortable accommodations and serene atmosphere.

Day Five offers a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, allowing you to connect with Rwanda’s conservation efforts and the remarkable legacy of Dian Fossey. This day prepares you for the thrilling experience of gorilla trekking in the coming days, where you will have the opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Day Six of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” focuses on the highlight of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Here’s what you can expect on this exciting day:

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Begin your day with an early breakfast at Five Volcanoes Hotel, typically starting around 6:00 AM. It’s important to have a hearty meal to prepare for the trek ahead.

• Transfer to Volcanoes National Park: After breakfast, you will drive to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. This is where you will meet with park rangers and receive a briefing about gorilla trekking procedures, safety guidelines, and the behavior of mountain gorillas.

• Group Assignment and Trekking Preparation: Groups of trekkers are assigned based on fitness levels and preferences. Each group is accompanied by an experienced guide who leads the trek through the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family.

Midday:

• Gorilla Trekking: The trek itself can vary in duration, typically lasting between three to four hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the hiking conditions. The trekking experience involves hiking through dense vegetation, sometimes steep terrain, and may require some physical exertion.

• Gorilla Encounter: Upon locating the gorilla family, you will spend a magical hour in their presence. Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience. You can observe their behaviors, interactions within the family, and even capture photos to cherish the moment.

Afternoon:

• Return to Five Volcanoes Hotel: After the gorilla trek, return to Five Volcanoes Hotel. You may choose to freshen up and relax after the trekking adventure.

• Lunch: Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, sharing stories and experiences from the gorilla trekking with fellow travelers.

Evening:

• Leisure Time: Spend the evening at leisure, reflecting on the incredible experience of encountering mountain gorillas up close. You can take a nature walk around the hotel grounds, engage in birdwatching, or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

• Dinner: Have dinner at the hotel, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine and unwind after an eventful day.

Accommodation: Spend another night at Five Volcanoes Hotel, appreciating its comfort and serene ambiance, surrounded by the beautiful Virunga Mountains.

Day Six is the pinnacle of wildlife encounters on the tour, offering an intimate and awe-inspiring experience with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s a day filled with adventure, conservation insights, and profound connections with Rwanda’s remarkable biodiversity

Day Seven of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” continues the exploration of Rwanda’s wildlife with a focus on  monkey trekking and a unique underground cave experience. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Five Volcanoes Hotel, typically beginning around 6:00 AM. Enjoy a hearty meal to fuel yourself for the day’s activities.

• Transfer to Volcanoes National Park: After breakfast, drive to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters once again. This morning, the focus shifts to golden monkey trekking.

• Golden Monkey Trekking: Upon arrival at the park headquarters, you will receive a briefing from the park rangers about golden monkey trekking. Golden monkeys are a unique and endangered primate species found in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. The trek to find them is generally easier compared to gorilla trekking and can take between one to two hours.

Midday:

• Lunch: After golden monkey trekking, return to Five Volcanoes Hotel for lunch. Enjoy a delicious meal and take some time to relax and unwind.

Afternoon:

• Visit to Underground Cave: In the afternoon, embark on a visit to an underground cave located near Musanze. This cave spans almost two kilometers and offers a fascinating exploration experience. You will learn about its geological formation and possibly encounter local myths and stories associated with the cave.

• Exploration and Relaxation: Spend time exploring the cave’s unique features and enjoying the cool ambiance inside. This visit provides a different perspective on Rwanda’s natural wonders beyond its lush landscapes and wildlife.

Evening:

• Return to Five Volcanoes Hotel: After the cave visit, return to Five Volcanoes Hotel. You have the evening to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of dishes and share stories from your golden monkey trekking and cave exploration experiences.

Accommodation: Spend your last night at Five Volcanoes Hotel, savoring the comfort and tranquility of the surroundings before continuing your journey through Rwanda.

Day Seven offers a blend of wildlife encounters and unique explorations, providing insights into Rwanda’s biodiversity and geological features. It’s a day filled with adventure and discovery, highlighting the diversity of experiences that Rwanda has to offer beyond its famous mountain gorillas.

Day Eight of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” introduces you to more cultural and natural wonders as you travel to the Kivu Belt region. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Begin your day with breakfast at Five Volcanoes Hotel, typically starting around 7:00 AM.

• Departure to Kivu Belt: Around 8:00 AM, embark on a scenic drive to the northwest part of Rwanda known as the Kivu Belt. This region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including Lake Kivu and the surrounding hills.

• Traditional Coffee Experience: As you travel through the Kivumu sector in Rutsiro District, stop for a traditional coffee experience. Learn about the process of preparing Rwandan coffee, from bean to cup, and savor the rich flavors of locally grown coffee.

Midday:

• Local Food Experience: After the coffee experience, indulge in a traditional Rwandan lunch featuring local dishes. This is an opportunity to taste authentic Rwandan cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culinary traditions.

Afternoon:

• Night Fishing Experience: Following lunch, continue your journey to Rushel Kivu Resort. In the afternoon, participate in a unique night fishing experience on Lake Kivu. Learn traditional fishing techniques from local fishermen and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake at dusk.

• Accommodation at Rushel Kivu Resort: After the night fishing experience, check into Rushel Kivu Resort for overnight accommodation. This resort offers comfortable lodging with scenic views of Lake Kivu, providing a tranquil setting to unwind after a day of cultural and natural exploration.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Rushel Kivu Resort’s restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and other local specialties. Relax and enjoy the evening by the lakeshore, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Lake Kivu.

Day Eight offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing you to experience Rwanda’s rich traditions and scenic landscapes in the Kivu Belt region. It’s a day filled with culinary delights, cultural encounters, and relaxation by the lakeside, setting the stage for further exploration in the days ahead.

Day Nine of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” is dedicated to exploring the natural marvels of Lake Kivu and its surroundings. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Rushel Kivu Resort, typically beginning around 7:00 AM. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options while overlooking the scenic views of Lake Kivu.

• Boat Ride on Lake Kivu: Around 9:00 AM, embark on a captivating boat ride on Lake Kivu. This excursion allows you to explore the beauty of the lake and its surroundings. Highlights of the boat ride include:

  • Lake Marvels: Enjoy views of the unique features of Lake Kivu, such as the Cow swimming, different islands including Napoleon Bonaparte hat Island, and Monkey Island.
  • Environmental Museum: Visit the Environmental Museum restaurant located near Lake Kivu in Karongi. This museum offers insights into the environmental aspects and cultural significance of the lake region.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Environmental Museum: After the boat ride, enjoy a delicious lunch at the Environmental Museum restaurant. Relish local cuisine while taking in panoramic views of Lake Kivu.
• Drive to Nyungwe Top View Hotel: Following lunch, embark on a scenic four-hour drive from Lake Kivu to Nyungwe Top View Hotel. This drive takes you through beautiful landscapes and rural communities, offering glimpses of Rwandan countryside life.

Evening:

• Arrival at Nyungwe Top View Hotel: Check into Nyungwe Top View Hotel, your accommodation for the night. This hotel provides a serene and comfortable atmosphere amidst the lush greenery of Nyungwe Forest.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where you can savor a variety of dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Accommodation: Spend the night at Nyungwe Top View Hotel, appreciating its scenic location and tranquil ambiance, as you prepare for further exploration of Nyungwe Forest in the coming days.

Day Nine offers a blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty around Lake Kivu, providing a refreshing experience before venturing into the next phase of your journey in Nyungwe Forest.

Day Ten of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” delves into the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe Forest with a focus on chimpanzee trekking and cultural experiences. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Start your day with an early breakfast at Nyungwe Top View Hotel, typically beginning around 6:00 AM. Fuel up for the day ahead with a variety of breakfast options.

• Transfer to Chimpanzee Trekking Starting Point: Around 7:00 AM, depart from Nyungwe Top View Hotel and drive to the starting point for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest. This drive may take about an hour, depending on the location of the starting point.

• Chimpanzee Trekking: Upon arrival at the trekking starting point, meet with experienced guides who will brief you on chimpanzee trekking procedures and safety guidelines. Nyungwe Forest is home to a population of habituated chimpanzees, and the trekking experience can vary in duration and difficulty based on their movements. Expect to walk through dense forest trails, listening for the calls and signs of chimpanzees.

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch in the Forest: During the trek, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural surroundings of Nyungwe Forest. This provides a chance to rest and refuel while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.

Afternoon:

• Community Cultural Dance: After chimpanzee trekking, return to Nyungwe Top View Hotel for a relaxing afternoon. Later in the day, participate in a community cultural dance performance. This cultural experience offers insights into Rwandan traditions, music, and dance, providing a lively and engaging interaction with local culture.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Nyungwe Top View Hotel, where you can savor a delicious meal prepared with local ingredients. Reflect on the day’s chimpanzee trekking and cultural experiences.

Accommodation: Spend another night at Nyungwe Top View Hotel, appreciating its serene environment and comfortable accommodations amidst the beautiful Nyungwe Forest.

Day Ten combines wildlife encounters with cultural immersion, offering a holistic experience of Rwanda’s natural and cultural heritage. It’s a day filled with adventure, learning, and memorable interactions that deepen your appreciation for Rwanda’s diverse offerings.

Day Eleven of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” invites you to delve deeper into Rwanda’s cultural and natural treasures, encompassing unique attractions and historical insights. Here’s a detailed itinerary for this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Nyungwe Top View Hotel, typically served from 7:00 AM onwards. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options to fuel up for the day.

• Canopy Walkway Experience: Around 9:00 AM, depart from the hotel and head to the Nyungwe Forest National Park headquarters. Here, you will embark on an exhilarating Canopy Walkway experience. Suspended high above the forest floor, the Canopy Walkway offers panoramic views of the forest canopy, providing a unique perspective on Nyungwe’s biodiversity. The walkway spans between ancient trees and is a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Midday:

• Lunch at kuw’Inka: After the Canopy Walkway, enjoy lunch at kuw’Inka, a restaurant located near Nyungwe Forest. Relish delicious cuisine while surrounded by the natural beauty of the forest.

Afternoon:

• Ethnographic Museum: Following lunch, visit the Ethnographic Museum to delve deeper into Rwandan culture and heritage. Located nearby, this museum showcases traditional artifacts, exhibits on Rwandan rituals, and insights into the country’s diverse cultural practices.

• King’s Palace Museum: After the Ethnographic Museum, drive approximately an hour to Nyanza to visit the King’s Palace Museum. This historical site offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s monarchy and traditions, featuring traditional architecture, royal artifacts, and cultural displays.

Evening:

• Accommodation at Heaven Hotel: After exploring the museums, continue your journey to Heaven Hotel for overnight accommodation. This hotel provides comfortable lodging and a tranquil atmosphere to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Heaven Hotel’s restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of dishes before retiring for the night.

Day Eleven offers a blend of cultural immersion and historical exploration, allowing you to connect with Rwanda’s vibrant traditions and significant landmarks. It’s a day filled with educational experiences, scenic beauty, and opportunities to deepen your understanding of Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.

Day Twelve of “The Real Rwanda Tour and Experiences” marks the final day of your journey, concluding with a visit to a significant historical site and departure preparations. Here’s what you can expect on this day:

Morning:

• Breakfast: Begin your day with breakfast at Heaven Hotel, typically served from 7:00 AM. Enjoy a final meal in Rwanda, savoring the flavors and reflecting on your experiences throughout the tour.

• Departure to Kigali International Airport: Around 8:00 AM, check out from Heaven Hotel and embark on a journey back to Kigali International Airport. The drive from Nyanza to the airport typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Midday:

• Arrival at Kigali International Airport: Arrive at Kigali International Airport in time for your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to relax at the airport or complete any last-minute shopping or souvenir purchases.

• Farewell to Rwanda: Bid farewell to Rwanda, its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Reflect on the memories created during your tour and the insights gained into Rwanda’s history, wildlife, and communities.

End of Tour: Your tour officially concludes upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, marking the end of our service.

This day serves as a transition from your exploration of Rwanda’s cultural and natural wonders to your return journey home. It’s a time to appreciate the journey and experiences, and perhaps begin planning your next adventure.