7‑Day Rwanda Wildlife & Nyungwe Chimps Safari
Book this safari with Katland Safaris for expertly planned trips led by experienced local guides. Each safari is personalised, responsibly run, and focused on authentic wildlife encounters. Seamless planning ensures a smooth and unforgettable journey.
Overview
The 7-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Nyungwe Chimpanzee Safari offers a rich exploration of Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems, blending classic wildlife viewing with immersive primate experiences. This itinerary combines the open savannahs of Akagera National Park with the ancient montane rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, home to one of East Africa’s most rewarding chimpanzee tracking experiences. The journey is complemented by Rwanda’s scenic landscapes, conservation success stories, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and transfer to Akagera National Park
- Day 2: Full-day wildlife game drives in Akagera National Park
- Day 3: Boat safari on Lake Ihema and transfer back to Kigali
- Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
- Day 5: Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Day 6: Canopy walk and forest exploration in Nyungwe
- Day 7: Return to Kigali and departure
Detailed Itinerary: 7‑Day Rwanda Wildlife & Nyungwe Chimps Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Akagera National Park
Your Rwanda safari begins with arrival in Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most welcoming capitals. After meeting your professional safari guide, you depart eastward toward Akagera National Park, passing through rolling hills and rural countryside that showcase Rwanda’s scenic beauty.
Upon arrival in Akagera, you enter a classic savannah ecosystem dotted with lakes and wetlands. After checking in at your lodge, you may enjoy a relaxed afternoon observing wildlife near the lodge before settling in for the evening.
Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Game Drives in Akagera National Park
A full day in Akagera National Park introduces you to Rwanda’s Big Five wildlife experience. Morning and afternoon game drives explore different sections of the park, offering opportunities to see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and predators such as lions and leopards.
Akagera’s open plains and lakeside scenery provide excellent wildlife viewing conditions and strong photographic opportunities. The day concludes with a return to the lodge to relax and reflect on the wildlife encounters.
Day 3: Boat Safari on Lake Ihema and Transfer Back to Kigali
The morning begins with a boat safari on Lake Ihema, one of Akagera’s most wildlife-rich water bodies. From the boat, you observe hippos, crocodiles, and abundant water birds along the shoreline, enjoying a peaceful contrast to the game drives.
After the boat safari, you depart Akagera and return to Kigali. The drive offers time to enjoy Rwanda’s countryside and prepare for the transition from savannah to rainforest landscapes.
Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
Today’s journey takes you southwest to Nyungwe National Park, home to one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The scenic drive passes through terraced hills, tea plantations, and rural villages, highlighting Rwanda’s strong connection between people and land.
Arrival in Nyungwe brings cooler temperatures and dense forest surroundings. You check in at your lodge near the park and spend the evening relaxing in preparation for chimpanzee tracking.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is the highlight of the primate experience. After an early morning briefing, you enter the forest with experienced guides, following vocalizations and movement through the canopy. Nyungwe’s large chimpanzee communities offer dynamic and energetic encounters.
Observing chimpanzees in this ancient forest provides insight into their social structure and intelligence. After the trek, you return to the lodge to rest and enjoy the tranquil forest environment.
Day 6: Canopy Walk and Forest Exploration in Nyungwe
This day focuses on exploring Nyungwe beyond chimpanzee tracking. A guided canopy walk takes you across a suspended bridge high above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of the rainforest and surrounding hills. The experience provides a unique perspective on the forest ecosystem.
Additional forest exploration allows you to appreciate Nyungwe’s biodiversity, including birdlife, butterflies, and unique plant species. The day is relaxed and immersive, ideal for nature lovers.
Day 7: Return to Kigali and Departure
The final day marks the conclusion of your 7-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Nyungwe Chimpanzee Safari. After breakfast, you begin the return journey to Kigali, traveling through Rwanda’s scenic countryside. Depending on your flight schedule, you may arrive in time for your international departure or enjoy a short city visit before departure.
This brings the safari to a close, leaving you with lasting memories of Rwanda’s wildlife, forests, and conservation success.
Safari Includes
- Safari Park fees
- All Tour activities
- All Tour accommodation
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation ( To & From )
- All Taxes/VAT
- Everyday Meals ( As specified )
- Drinking water ( On all days )
Safari Excludes
- International flights ( From / to home )
- Additional Accommodation
- Tips
- Personal items(Souvenirs
- etc.)
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Gov increase of taxes and/or park fees
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7‑Day Rwanda Wildlife & Nyungwe Chimps Safari
Choose Your Location & Safari Type
Decide where you want to go, how long you will stay, and the kind of safari you want, such as game drives or gorilla trekking. This helps define your budget, travel dates, and overall plan.
Confirm the Safari Itinerary
Select a trusted safari operator and review the itinerary, including parks, accommodation, activities, and what is included. Confirm availability for lodges and permits before proceeding.
Make Payment and Prepare to Travel
Pay the required deposit to secure your safari bookings and confirm all arrangements. After confirmation, review the travel advice provided and prepare for your safari trip.
First-Time Safari Guide To Get Ready For Your Holiday
This East Africa Safari 101 guide explains everything a first-time safari traveler needs to know, from wildlife and game drives to costs, safety, and the best time to visit. It helps beginners understand what to expect on safari and how to plan a smooth, rewarding experience in East Africa.
