Journey Details
- Start / End
- Kigali International Airport → Kigali, Rwanda
- Languages
- English, French, German (on request)
- Guide
- Expert Local Guide
- Group Size
- 2–12
- Accommodation
- Superior
About This Journey
Overview
Discover the remarkable diversity of Rwanda on a 6-day wildlife safari spanning three of the country’s most iconic national parks. From the open savannahs of Akagera National Park to the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, you’ll experience very different landscapes and wildlife habitats within one compact journey.
The adventure culminates in Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll trek through the Virunga Mountains in search of endangered mountain gorillas. With Big Five wildlife, chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking combined, this itinerary is an excellent choice for travellers wanting to experience Rwanda’s wildlife highlights in a single safari.
The Route Ahead
Every stop, stay and meal — laid out so you know exactly what each day holds.
Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Your wildlife safari begins as you arrive in Kigali, Rwanda. You'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kigali, where you can relax and prepare for the extraordinary days ahead.
Safari in Akagera National Park
Dive into the world of wildlife with a day of safari in Akagera National Park. Encounter the iconic big game of Africa, including lions, elephants, and buffaloes, as you explore the park's stunning landscapes.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Depart for Nyungwe Forest National Park, a haven for chimpanzees and other primates. Experience the thrill of chimpanzee tracking, where you'll witness these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Journey to Volcanoes National Park, known for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Check in at your lodge or campsite near the park, surrounded by the beauty of the area.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Prepare for an extraordinary day of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, an experience that will leave you in awe.
Return to Kigali, Rwanda - Departure
Bid farewell to Rwanda's wildlife wonders as you return to Kigali. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, carrying with you cherished memories of your wildlife safari.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Available on request — tell us your preferred dates and we'll tailor a departure around them.
What's Included
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation as specified
- Ground transportation for all transfers and activities
- Safari in Akagera National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
What's Excluded
- International flights to/from Kigali International Airport
- Visa fees (if required)
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
East Africa — including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania — welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year, and the overwhelming majority return home with wonderful memories and no safety issues.
The main tourist areas (national parks, gorilla trekking zones, established lodges, and well-travelled routes) are generally very safe when you travel with a reputable operator. Crime against tourists is relatively rare in these environments. Like any destination in the world, larger cities require normal urban awareness, especially after dark.
Safety can vary by country and by region, and the situation can change. For this reason we always recommend that you check the latest official travel advice from your own government’s embassy or foreign office before you book and again closer to your departure date. This is the most reliable and up-to-date source of information.
At Tuntu Safaris we take safety extremely seriously. We use experienced local guides, well-maintained vehicles, carefully selected lodges, and proven routes. Your wellbeing is our highest priority from the moment you arrive until you leave.
This is one of the best questions you can ask, and the answer depends on the kind of experience you want.
Uganda is ideal if you want exceptional variety in a single country. Here you can trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, and beautiful scenery — all without excessive travel days. It feels less commercial than some of its neighbours and offers outstanding value, especially for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda is perfect for a short, high-end, polished trip focused on mountain gorillas. The infrastructure and service standards are excellent, and the experience is very exclusive.
Kenya and Tanzania are the classic choices for big open savannahs, large numbers of the Big Five, and (in season) the Great Migration. They deliver the iconic “endless plains” safari experience many people picture when they think of Africa.
Many of our guests combine two countries. Uganda + Rwanda is a particularly popular pairing for primate lovers. We’re happy to help you decide based on the length of your trip, your interests, and your budget.
Uganda can be visited year-round, but conditions change with the seasons.
The two dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are generally considered the best times for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy and hiking is more comfortable. Wildlife viewing in the savannah parks is also excellent during these months as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer visitors, and sometimes better availability of gorilla permits and lodge rooms. Trekking is still very possible, though you should expect some mud and rain.
If your main goal is comfortable gorilla trekking, aim for the dry seasons. If you prefer quieter parks and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green seasons can be wonderfully rewarding.
A standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents. This allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
A gorilla habituation experience permit (which lets you spend up to four hours with a group still being habituated) costs USD 1,500.
Permits are limited and sell out quickly in peak season, so we recommend securing them as early as possible. We handle the entire permit booking process for our clients.
