Travel Africa & More

Rwanda: Gorillas, Chimpanzees & Big Five Safari

Rwanda offers one of Africa’s most diverse wildlife experiences within a remarkably compact country. This journey combines Big Five safaris in Akagera, chimpanzee trekking and rainforest experiences in Nyungwe, and the unforgettable opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

DURATION
6 Nights
LOCATIONS
• Akagera National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Volcanoes National Park

Days 1-3

Begin your journey in Akagera, Central Africa’s only Big Five safari destination. Following extensive conservation efforts, the park is now home to lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. Open savannah, lakes, and wetlands create a diverse safari experience that feels very different from the rest of Rwanda.

Stay at camps such as Akagera Game Lodge / Karenge Bush Camp or similar.

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Days 3-5

Travel south into one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Nyungwe is known for its chimpanzees, exceptional birdlife, and the famous canopy walkway suspended above the forest floor. The contrast between classic safari and dense rainforest is one of Rwanda’s unique strengths.

Stay at lodges such as Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel / Gisakura Guest House or similar.

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Days 5-7

The final leg of the journey takes you to the foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Volcanoes National Park is one of the world’s most important mountain gorilla habitats and offers one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters.

Stay at lodges such as La Palme Hotel / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge or similar.

WHAT THIS REALLY MEANS

  • Rwanda’s three flagship wildlife destinations
  • Big Five safari combined with primate experiences
  • Comfortable accommodations
  • Strong value for travelers prioritizing permits and experiences
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Starting From (excluding gorilla & chimpanzee trekking permits)

  • Peak Season (June–September | Dec–Feb):
    USD $4,800 per person (6 Nights) (~ $800 PPPN)
  • Green Season (March–May | Oct–Nov):
    USD $3,900 per person (6 Nights) (~ $650 PPPN)
DURATION
6 Nights
LOCATIONS
• Akagera National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Volcanoes National Park

Days 1-3

Enjoy guided game drives through Rwanda’s only savannah national park, where conservation success stories have restored populations of key wildlife species. Boat safaris on Lake Ihema add another dimension to the experience.

Stay at camps such as Ruzizi Tented Lodge / Mantis Akagera Game Lodge (Premium Rooms) or similar.

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Days 3-5

Nyungwe’s rainforest environment supports numerous primate species, including habituated chimpanzee groups. Forest walks, birding opportunities, and canopy experiences create a highly varied wilderness experience.

Stay at lodges such as Nyungwe House / One&Only Nyungwe House or similar.

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Days 5-7

Spend two nights in Rwanda’s gorilla country, surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery and lush mountain forests. The area also offers golden monkey tracking and cultural experiences in addition to gorilla trekking.

Stay at lodges such as Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar.

WHAT THIS REALLY MEANS

  • Rwanda’s highlights with upgraded accommodation
  • Excellent balance between safari and primate experiences
  • More personalized guiding and logistics
  • Comfortable lodges in prime locations
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Starting From (excluding gorilla & chimpanzee trekking permits)

  • Peak Season (June–September | Dec–Feb) :
    USD $7,200 per person (6 Nights) (~ $1,200 PPPN)
  • Green Season (March–May | Oct–Nov):
    USD $6,000 per person (6 Nights) (~ $1,000 PPPN)
DURATION
6 Nights
LOCATIONS
• Akagera National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Volcanoes National Park

Days 1-3

Experience Akagera from some of the country’s finest safari accommodations, combining classic game drives with private guiding and scenic boat safaris. The park’s varied habitats support exceptional biodiversity and increasingly strong predator sightings.

Stay at camps such as Magashi Camp / Wilderness Magashi or similar.

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Days 3-5

Stay in Rwanda’s premier rainforest lodge while exploring one of Africa’s richest montane forests. Chimpanzee tracking, canopy walks, and guided forest experiences showcase the remarkable biodiversity of Nyungwe.

Stay at lodges such as One&Only Nyungwe House or similar.

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Days 5-7

Conclude your journey in one of Africa’s most exclusive gorilla trekking destinations. Luxury lodges here combine exceptional service, stunning volcano views, and privileged access to one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences.

Stay at lodges such as Bisate Lodge / Singita Kwitonda Lodge / One&Only Gorilla’s Nest or similar.

WHAT THIS REALLY MEANS

  • Rwanda’s finest safari and primate lodges
  • Seamless logistics and personalized service
  • Exceptional wildlife and conservation experiences
  • One of Africa’s most exclusive primate-focused journeys
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Starting From (excluding gorilla & chimpanzee permits)

  • Peak Season (June–September | Dec–Feb):
    USD $15,000 per person (6 Nights) (~ $2,500 PPPN)
  • Green Season (March–May | Oct–Nov):
    USD $12,000 per person (6 Nights) (~ $2,000 PPPN)

Seasons

June – September (Peak Season)

Generally dry conditions make gorilla and chimpanzee trekking easier, with firmer trails and comfortable temperatures. Wildlife viewing in Akagera is also at its strongest as animals gather around permanent water sources.

The landscape becomes greener and more vibrant. Rainfall is usually intermittent, and trekking remains excellent while photographic opportunities improve.

Another excellent period for gorilla trekking and safari. Conditions are generally dry, visibility is good, and wildlife viewing remains strong across the country.

Rwanda’s forests become especially lush and beautiful. Trekking can be more challenging due to muddy trails, but this period offers exceptional scenery and fewer visitors.

Important Note:- Gorilla trekking permits and chimpanzee trekking permits are not included in the starting prices above and are priced separately.

What's inside the package?

Inclusions
  • All meals as indicated (Fully Inclusive basis at camps)
  • Soft drinks, beer, house wines, and selected spirits at camps
  • Transfers and local flights
  • Shared game drives (day and night) and walking safaris
  • Park fees, conservation charges, and emergency support cover
  • Laundry services at camps
  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Premium spirits, champagne, and cellar wines
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Optional activities (e.g., Balloon Safaris)

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