7-Day Rwanda's Ultimate Luxury – Big Five Safari & Gorilla Trekking

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

7-Day Rwanda's Ultimate Luxury – Big Five Safari & Gorilla Trekking

Rwanda offers one of Africa’s most exclusive safari experiences, combining the thrill of Big Five game viewing with the profound encounter of gorilla trekking. This 7-Day Rwanda’s Ultimate Luxury journey takes you to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only Big Five destination, where you’ll stay at Wilderness Magashi, an ultra-luxurious camp overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga. Then, a scenic helicopter transfer carries you over the “Land of a Thousand Hills” to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll trek through misty forests to spend an unforgettable hour with mountain gorillas. From conservation-focused lodges to personalized service, this is luxury at its most meaningful.

This 7-Day Rwanda’s Ultimate Luxury includes private airport transfers, 6 nights’ accommodation at Rwanda’s finest lodges, all meals, game drives, and gorilla trekking permits. You’ll enjoy exclusive wildlife encounters in Akagera’s private-access area, including night drives and boat safaris on Lake Rwanyakazinga. The helicopter transfer between camps offers breathtaking views and cuts a 5-hour drive to just 30 minutes. With expert guides, conservation-focused experiences, and exceptional service, this itinerary delivers the ultimate Rwandan adventure.

Highlights

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Stay at Kigali Serena Hotel
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Wilderness Magashi
Day 3: Full Day in Akagera – Big Five Safari
Day 4: Scenic Helicopter Transfer – Volcanoes National Park
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 6: Second Gorilla Trekking or Reforestation Experience
Day 7: Return to Kigali – Departure

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kigali – Stay at Kigali Serena Hotel

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport. You'll be transferred to the Kigali Serena Hotel, a comfortable stopover in the heart of Rwanda's vibrant capital. Depending on your arrival time, explore Kigali's thriving arts scene at the Inema Arts Centre or visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a profound understanding of the country's history and resilience. The hotel offers an 18-metre swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and excellent dining options. Overnight at Kigali Serena Hotel. Meals: Dinner.

Day 02 :

Transfer to Akagera National Park – Wilderness Magashi

After breakfast, begin the scenic 5-6 hour drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda's only Big Five destination. The park features stunning savannah plains, woodlands, lakes, and swamps, home to lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and over 480 bird species. Arrive at Wilderness Magashi, an ultra-luxurious camp on Lake Rwanyakazinga's shores. The camp features just six tented rooms with open-sided designs offering uninterrupted lake views. Settle in and enjoy the spectacular vistas. In the late afternoon, embark on your first game drive to experience Akagera's wildlife. Overnight at Wilderness Magashi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 03 :

Full Day in Akagera – Big Five Safari

Rise early for a sunrise game drive to spot predators in action, including lions, hyenas, and leopards. Explore Akagera's diverse landscapes, from savannah plains to wetlands, searching for the Big Five animals. Return to the lodge for brunch and relaxation by the pool. In the afternoon, embark on a luxury pontoon boat safari on Lake Rwanyakazinga to see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants or buffalo at the water's edge. Alternatively, enjoy catch-and-release fishing or a sunset cocktail cruise. As night falls, head out for a night drive to spot nocturnal species including leopard, civet, bush babies, and hyenas. Overnight at Wilderness Magashi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 04 :

Scenic Helicopter Transfer – Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, board a scenic helicopter for a breathtaking 30-minute transfer to Volcanoes National Park, cutting a 5-hour road journey. The flight offers spectacular views over the "Land of a Thousand Hills" and the Virunga Mountains. Arrive at Wilderness Bisate, perched on the forest's edge, featuring elegant accommodation inspired by the King's Palace in Butare. Settle in, enjoy a gourmet lunch, and relax in your luxurious suite. In the afternoon, take a gentle walk to see golden monkeys or visit the scenic twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. Indulge in a restorative spa treatment, yoga session, or simply soak in the stunning volcano views. Overnight at Wilderness Bisate. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 05 :

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kinigi Park headquarters for registration and a briefing with park rangers. You'll be assigned to one of the park's 12 habituated gorilla families based on your fitness level and group size. Enter the mist-shrouded forest with expert trackers who know the terrain intimately. The trek can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas' location. Once located, you'll spend one magical hour observing the gorilla family, watching the silverback lead his group, mothers nurse their infants, and juveniles play. After your encounter, return to the lodge for a well-earned rest and a gourmet dinner. Overnight at Wilderness Bisate. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 06 :

Second Gorilla Trekking or Reforestation Experience

Today offers a choice of activities. You may choose a second gorilla trekking experience with a different gorilla family (subject to permit availability, extra cost). Alternatively, participate in Wilderness Bisate's reforestation project by planting an indigenous tree from the lodge nursery. Visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village to learn about traditional Batwa culture, music, and dance. Enjoy a guided walk to see golden monkeys, hike to Dian Fossey's grave, or visit the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. Return to the lodge for a final indulgent spa treatment or yoga session. Overnight at Wilderness Bisate. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 07 :

Return to Kigali – Departure

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast overlooking the volcanoes. Check out and begin your return journey to Kigali by road (approximately 2-3 hours) or helicopter (optional, extra cost). If time permits, visit the local markets for last-minute souvenirs or explore Kigali's craft village. Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave, you'll carry with you the extraordinary memories of Rwanda's ultimate luxury experience, from the Big Five to the gentle giants of the Virunga Mountains. Meal Plan: Breakfast.