9-Day Rwanda Safari | Akagera, Volcanoes, Nyungwe & Lake Kivu

A 9-day Rwanda safari is a comprehensive adventure covering gorillas, chimps, and wildlife, usually starting in Kigali and covering Akagera National Park (savannah), Nyungwe Forest National Park (chimps), Lake Kivu (relaxation), and Volcanoes National Park (gorillas). Expect gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, canopy walks, and city tours.

A 9-day Rwanda self-drive safari typically covers the country’s premier wildlife and primate destinations, including Volcanoes National Park (gorillas), Nyungwe National Park (chimpanzees/canopy walk), and Akagera National Park (savannah wildlife). These itineraries often include a Kigali city tour, genocide memorial visit, golden monkey trekking, and rich cultural experiences, balancing adventure with scenery.

A Detailed 9-Day Rwanda Safari Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kigali. Welcome by tour representative, hotel transfer, and briefing.
  • Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Akagera. Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamirambo Women’s Center, then transfer to Akagera National Park.
  • Day 3: Game Drive & Boat Trip in Akagera. Morning game drive for big game, followed by a boat trip on Lake Ihema to see hippos and crocodiles.
  • Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Scenic drive to southern Rwanda, stopping at the Butare museum.
  • Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk. Trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and enjoy an afternoon canopy walk over the forest floor.
  • Day 6: Colobus Monkey Tracking & Transfer. Morning monkey tracking or nature walk, followed by a transfer toward Lake Kivu.
  • Day 7: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park. Scenic drive to the home of mountain gorillas.
  • Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Tracking. Trek to see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, followed by an afternoon cultural experience.
  • Day 9: Golden Monkey Trekking & Departure. Morning trek for endangered golden monkeys, hike to the Dian Fossey site, or visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus before departing for Kigali.

9-Day Rwanda Self-Drive Safari Details

  • Highlights: Mountain gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey tracking, Akagera wildlife, canopy walk, Lake Kivu.
  • Activities: Wildlife viewing, trekking, bird watching, hiking, cultural tours.
  • Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (mid-December to early February, or June to September) for easier trekking.
  • Permits: Requires Gorilla permit ($1,500), Chimp permit, and Golden Monkey permit, usually arranged by tour operators.
  • Transport: Private 4×4 safari jeep with a guide.