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5-Day Safari Trip to Rwanda and Gorillas

Days

5 days, 2 countries

Lodging

4 nights in Hotels, 1 nights in Special Stay

Meals

5 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

Transport

Pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle

Group Size

Average 38 people

Team

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

This safari trip to Akagera National Park will give you an amazing experience in the beautiful Akagera wilderness where you will see a variety of wild animals and birds in Rwanda. This safari also takes you through Kigali city to Mgahinga National Park for golden monkey trekking after an exciting border crossing trip from south western Uganda. Here you will engage yourself in another magnificent experience with gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

Trip Highlights

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4-Day Tails of Masai Mara

Days 4 days, 1 country Lodging nights in Hotels, 1 nights in Special Stay Meals 4 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners Transport Pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle Group

Route Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Transfer to Akagera, Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Safari

You will start your 2-day trip to Akagera at 7:00 am prompt. The tour driver shall pick you up from your hotel in Kigali and depart for Akagera National Park in the east of Rwanda. The travel time from Kigali to Akagera is about 2.5 hours. Prior to checking into your lodge, you shall do a short game drive to spot some animals and enjoy the amazing scenery. The southern part of Akagera National Park is mostly covered by acacia thickets and woodlands which is not a favorable habitat for most grazing animals. Expect to see some impalas, zebras, reedbucks, giraffes, baboons, and black-faced vervet monkeys among others. However, the most exciting prospect in the south of Akagera National Park is the rhino. After lunch, you shall go out for the boat safari on Lake Ihema at 3:00 pm. Lake Ihema is the largest lake in the park and the second-largest in Rwanda. The boat safari will provide among other sightings: hippos, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and plenty of water birds.

Main Destination:
Akagera National Park (Rwanda)
Akagera Rhino Lodge
  • Mid-range lodge located just outside Akagera NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2 Full Safari in Akagera and Transfer Back to Kigali

After early breakfast, check out of the lodge by 6.30 am and set off for the full-day safari in Akagera taking about 6 hours. Drive along the main game track, from the south of the park to the north and exit. You shall go through a range of habitats from acacia thickets, woodland, bushes, and savanna grassland, providing a variety of animals, wildlife and varied scenery. The most notable stop is the “hippo beach” where schools of hippos and groups of crocodiles can be found basking in the shallows of the swamps. Continuing on the main track, you will finally get to the Kilala plains in the north of the park. The Kilala plains have a high concentration of animals and are the main game-watching area of the park. Predators such as the lions are often found taking shelter from the afternoon heat under trees, satisfied from the successful morning hunt in the Kilala plains! After the game drive, have a picnic lunch, exit the park, and travel back to Kigali.

Main Destination:
Akagera National Park (Rwanda)
Accommodation:
Five to Five Hotel
  • Budget hotel located in or near Kigali
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3 Pick Up from Kigali and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On this day, the driver guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kigali and proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park located in southwestern Uganda. Drive via undulating and beautiful terraced hills showing a clear picture of the general landscape and altitude of Rwanda and Uganda. You will have a relaxed evening at the lodge as you get prepared for the next day’s adventure.

Main Destination:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Haven’s Lodge
  • Budget lodge located just outside Bwindi NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4 Do Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi

After the briefing, embark on the golden monkey tracking. The encounter starts at 7:00 am at the park headquarters where you’ll head to the forest in unlimited numbers in search of these endangered species. You will take about 4 hours on the Golden monkey tracking experience, inclusive of one hour encounter with them. You will see them roll themselves on the Bamboo stems and present themselves with not much shyness as it has been reduced through habituation, and enjoy the sights of their silver patch. You will then transfer to the gorilla land of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The drive takes you through different features including tropical rain forests and the undulating terraced hills of Kigezi, famously known as the Switzerland of East Africa. Drive to the lodge for relaxation as you wait for the next day’s adventure.

Main Destination:
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Gorillas)

Accomodation:

Rushaga Gorilla Haven’s Lodge
  • Budget lodge located just outside Bwindi NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5 Gorilla Tracking and Transfer to Kigali Airport

Have an early morning breakfast and proceed to the briefing point. Enjoy the highlight of your trip, gorilla trekking, which may last from 2 to 6 hours depending on the group you are visiting. We will trek through the rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes, accompanied by Uganda Wildlife Authority guide and other trackers, in search of a mountain gorilla family. The walking can sometimes be tough and long, but when you catch a glimpse of the magnificent silverback, any discomforts will be quickly forgotten. Due to the nature of the activity, you will have a packed lunch. After gorilla trekking, you will drive through the terraced hills to Kigali city. Then you will be dropped off at your point of call either at the hotel or the airport for your flight back home.

Main Destination:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

End of tour

  • Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
  • You’ll be dropped off at the airport.
Day 6 Lake Kivu Boat Cruise and Transfer to Kigali + Departure

After an early breakfast, you’ll venture out to Kinigi, at the foothills of the Virungas, in Parc National des Volcans where you’ll begin your trek. Your guide and tracker will lead you deep into the forest in search of your allocated gorilla family. Your trek could last from 30 minutes to eight hours depending on the exact location of the specific gorilla family which you’re tracking.

When you meet the gorillas you’ll have the chance to spend up to one magical hour quietly observing them. The gorillas are likely to be just a few meters away from you and they will continue to go about their daily lives, feeding and interacting with each other, under the watchful gaze of the silverback.

Late in the afternoon, you’ll be transferred back to your accommodation where you can spend the evening reflecting on your incredible encounter with the wild mountain gorillas of Rwanda.

*Accommodation upgrades are optional at an extra cost.

Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
Accommodation: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
  • Mid-range lodge located just outside Volcanoes NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

End of tour:

 
  • Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
  • You’ll be dropped off at the airport.

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General FAQs

What is the Rwenzori Mountain Range?

The Rwenzori Mountain Range is a stunning mountain range in Western Uganda that is home to the third-highest peak in Africa, Mount Stanley.

What is the best time of year to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?

The best time to hike the Rwenzori Mountains is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to August. During these months, the trails are more accessible, and the views are better

How long does it take to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?
  1. The length of a hike in the Rwenzori Mountains varies depending on the route and itinerary. However, most treks last between six and twelve days.
What are the physical requirements for hiking the Rwenzori Mountains?

Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains is a strenuous activity that requires a high level of physical fitness. It is recommended that you begin training several months before the trek and consult with a doctor to ensure you are fit for the hike.

What gear do I need to bring for a hike in the Rwenzori Mountains?

You will need to bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, and a backpack. It is also recommended that you bring your own sleeping bag.

Do I need a guide to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?

Yes, it is required to have a guide when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. Guides are trained to navigate the terrain and ensure your safety during the hike.

How much does it cost to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?

The cost of hiking the Rwenzori Mountains varies depending on the route and itinerary. However, most treks range from $1,500 to $2,500 per person.

Is altitude sickness a concern when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern when hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. It is important to take your time and acclimate to the altitude during the trek.

What is the accommodation like on the trek?

Accommodation during the trek is typically in mountain huts or tents. The huts and tents are basic and do not have electricity or running water.

Is it safe to hike the Rwenzori Mountains?

Yes, hiking the Rwenzori Mountains is generally safe. However, it is important to follow the guidance of your guide and take necessary safety precautions during the trek.

What to eat:
  • High energy and nutrient-dense foods are recommended for hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains.
  • Pack snacks such as nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
  • For meals, the lodges and camps on the mountain offer a range of options including rice, pasta, soups, stews, and grilled meats.
  • Vegetarians and vegans can also be accommodated with meals such as vegetable stir-fry and lentil curry.
  • It’s important to stay hydrated, so make sure to bring plenty of water or a water filtration system.
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything that hasn’t been properly sterilized or cooked, to reduce the risk of food poisoning or water-borne illnesses.