5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

Rwanda is one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, offering a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. For travelers with limited time who want to experience the very best of the country, the 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary is the ideal choice.

This carefully designed itinerary combines Big Five game viewing in Akagera National Park, mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and scenic drives through Rwanda’s stunning countryside. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning safari enthusiast, this journey delivers unforgettable moments in just five days.

Why Choose a 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary?

A 5-day safari offers the perfect balance between adventure and comfort. It allows travelers to:

• Experience Rwanda’s top national parks

• Trek endangered mountain gorillas

• Enjoy classic African game drives

• Discover Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes

• Experience rich culture and hospitality

• Maximize time without rushing

The 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary is ideal for couples, small groups, families, and luxury or mid-range travelers.

Overview of the 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

 Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
 Big Five safari in Akagera National Park
 Scenic drives through Rwanda’s countryside
 Professional English-speaking guide
 Comfortable safari lodges
 Cultural experiences along the way

This itinerary is designed for maximum wildlife encounters and smooth travel logistics.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – City Tour & Transfer to Akagera National Park

Your 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary begins with arrival in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital.

Activities:

• Meet & greet at Kigali International Airport

• Kigali City Tour

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial

  • Local markets

  • Craft centers

  • City viewpoints

• Scenic drive to Akagera National Park

Accommodation:

• Akagera Game Lodge

• Mantis Akagera Lodge

• Ruzizi Tented Camp

This day introduces you to Rwanda’s history, culture, and landscapes before heading into the wild.

Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Akagera National Park

Today is dedicated to a full wildlife experience in Rwanda’s only savannah park.

Activities:

• Early morning game drive

• Search for the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard)

• Spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and hippos

• Afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema

Akagera offers classic African safari scenery with lakes, savannahs, and rolling hills.

Highlights:

• Excellent wildlife photography

• Boat safari with hippos and crocodiles

• Birdwatching (500+ species)

Accommodation:

• Same lodge as previous night

Day 3: Akagera – Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, your journey continues north toward the famous Volcanoes National Park.

Activities:

• Scenic drive across Rwanda

• Stopover for lunch in Kigali or Musanze

• Optional cultural experience en route

• Arrival at Volcanoes National Park

This scenic transfer showcases Rwanda’s rolling hills, villages, and lush landscapes.

Accommodation Options:

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

• Tiloreza Eco Lodge

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

You will rest early in preparation for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park

This is the highlight of your 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary.

Activities:

• Early breakfast and park briefing

• Guided trek through bamboo forests

• Encounter with a habituated gorilla family

• One magical hour observing gorillas

• Return to lodge for relaxation

Gorilla Trekking Experience Includes:

• Professional ranger guide

• Gorilla permit

• Unforgettable wildlife interaction

• Photography opportunities

Gorilla trekking is a life-changing experience and the main reason travelers visit Rwanda.

Optional Afternoon Activities:

• Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

• Nature walk

• Local community visit

Day 5: Return to Kigali & Departure

On the final day of your 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary, you will return to Kigali.

Activities:

• Breakfast at the lodge

• Scenic drive back to Kigali

• Last-minute shopping

• Airport drop-off

This marks the end of an unforgettable safari adventure.

What’s Included in the 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

 Airport transfers
 Private 4×4 safari vehicle
 English-speaking driver-guide
 All park entrance fees
 Gorilla trekking permit
 Game drives & boat safari
 Accommodation & meals
 Bottled water during safari

What’s Not Included

 International flights
 Visa fees
 Travel insurance
 Personal expenses
 Tips & gratuities
 Optional activities

Best Time to Book the 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari

The safari runs year-round, but the best months are:

• June – September (Dry season, best trekking conditions)

• December – February (Great weather, fewer crowds)

Rainy months offer lush scenery and fewer tourists but slightly challenging trekking conditions.

Why Rwanda Is Perfect for a Short Safari

 Short travel distances
 Excellent road network
 Safe and clean country
 High-quality lodges
 Strong conservation efforts
 Friendly local communities

Rwanda offers one of the most efficient safari experiences in Africa.

Who Should Book This Safari?

This itinerary is perfect for:

• First-time safari travelers

• Gorilla trekking enthusiasts

• Couples & honeymooners

• Wildlife photographers

• Luxury and mid-range travelers

• Time-limited visitors

Final Thoughts: 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

The 5-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary is the ultimate short safari experience, combining thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural discovery.

From tracking mountain gorillas to spotting lions in Akagera, this journey offers everything Rwanda is famous for—within just five unforgettable days.

If you’re looking for a safari that blends adventure, comfort, and authenticity, this itinerary is the perfect choice.