Revel in Rwanda

Revel in Rwanda

Experience all of the beauty of Rwanda on a terrific two-week safari tour with game drives, gorilla tracking, and exploring the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Overview

Good things come in small packages. While Rwanda may be one of the smallest nations in the world, that doesn’t stop it from packing in the beauty. This is a terrific two-week Rwanda safari that lets you in on all of the secrets of Rwanda with game drives, gorilla tracking, and plenty of exploring of the Land of a Thousand Hills’ beautiful lakes, dense forests and towering volcanoes.

Trip Highlights

Information

Trip Info

Dry Season In Rwanda – June to September

The weather during these is typically characterized by warm and sunny days, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). These periods are considered excellent for visiting Rwanda’s national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, as the dry conditions offer better visibility and ease of exploration. July’s rainfall is the lowest at just 11mm (0.4”), with June (19mm / 0.7”) and August (31mm / 1.2”) just a touch higher.

Wet Season In Rwanda – October to May

The rainfall and temperature remain relatively constant in Rwanda due to its position on the equator. Rainfall averages at least 77mm (3”) a month during this period, with a high in April of 154mm (6.1”). Afternoon temperatures are usually around 27°C/81°F, though they drop in popular regions like Nyungwe (21°C/70°F) and Volcanoes National Park (16°C/61°F).

Best Times To Spot Wildlife in Rwanda

In Rwanda, game viewing in Volcanoes/Nyungwe is excellent December through March and June through October. It is good in November, and fair in April and May.

Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

Arrival in Kigali

Arrival in Kigali and transfer to your accommodation.

Kigali - Akagera National Park

Your tour starts after breakfast, with a drive to Akagera National Park. In the afternoon, we have our first game drive, where you can see elephants, cobs, hippos, giraffes, and, with luck, lions, and leopards.

We start the day with an early morning game drive, before breakfast, while the animals are still active in the cooler hours of the day. Your Akagera safari offers a variety of wildlife and scenery. In the afternoon you will enjoy a further game drive and a boat trip, during which you will see a variety of water birds.

Akagera National Park- Kigali

It is another early start today as another game drive awaits you.
At lunch time you will enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the park from the top of Mount Mutumba. Afterward, we return to Kigali for the night.

Butare

On the way to Nyungwe Forest we stop in the town of Butare (Huye) where we visit the National Museum of Rwanda which will give you an insight into the cultural heritage of this fascinating country.

Butare - Nyungwe Forest

In the morning you will be hiking through the forest, surrounded by spectacular biodiversity, in search of the chimpanzees. Once you track them down you will witness their engaging playfulness and human-like characteristics. Nyungwe is one of the largest forests in East Africa, harboring over 300 different species of birds, 75 species of mammals, including 13 monkey species, most of which are endemic.

Choose from one of the following activities: nature walk, bird watching, primate walk, canopy walk or waterfall trail. (One activity is included)

Nyungwe Forest - Kibuye (Lake Kivu)

Today you can enjoy a warm bath in the hot springs of Bugarama, the largest natural spring in Rwanda. Enjoy your lunch during the boat trip on River Rusizi. For our overnight stay, we drive to Kibuye town.

Kibuye (Lake Kivu) -Gisenyi (Lake Kivu)

Today is a relaxing day; the only planned activity is a drive to Gisenyi. Once we arrive you can relax at the lodge or enjoy a pleasant stroll along the shores of the beautiful Lake Kivu.

Gisenyi (Lake Kivu) -Volcanoes National Park

To start, we’ll drive to the home of the critically endangered mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park.

Along the way, our journey is all about Rwandese traditional culture as we participate in activities at the Ebyuwacu Cultural Centre.

The next morning you’ll wake up to a once-in-a-lifetime experience: Gorilla tracking! You will be face to face with one of the most fascinating creatures in the world, and you will have one precious hour in their awe-inspiring company, observing as they interact, eat and play. During the hike, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful Rwandan scenery and interesting wildlife.

For Day 12, we’ll head to Lake Ruhondo. Choose from one of the following activities (included in price): Nature walk – the best way to discover the variety of plant and animal species Track the endangered Golden Monkeys – this is a rare and enjoyable experience Climb the volcanoes to experience some of the most breath-taking views within Rwanda Hike to the tomb of the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey.

It may be possible to track gorillas again today, subject to the availability of permits (+ USD 1,500).

Lake Ruhondo - Kigali

Enjoy the scenic area with a drive around the lakes or take a nature walk. You can visit the Musangabo viewing point or the Rusumo Falls which had an important role in the history of Rwanda.

Kigali

After breakfast, we will return to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to tour the city and learn about the history of Rwanda through the tales told by its capital; get acquainted with pre-colonial and colonial Rwanda, the 1994 genocide and see the new developments in this growing city.

You will be dropped off at the airport in time for your scheduled flight.

Details

Trip Details

Inclusions

Exclusions

Prices

  • 2 pax based on a double room $10,048/person
  • 4 pax based on 2 double rooms $8,099/person
  • 6 pax based on 3 double rooms $7,449/person

Our tailor-made trips are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African safari experience a memorable one. As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs.

Please treat all pricing as a guide only, as customisations made to this itinerary, style of travel, and number of guests may raise or lower the overall cost. All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice. Single supplements may apply.

For the best, most current rates available, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

Warren Anwkasa,
Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Inquire About This Tour

All our itineraries can be adapted to suit your personal interests and preferences. 

Please feel free to discuss these with us so we can personalise your tour for your maximum enjoyment.

For the most current rates for your party, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

What Our Guests Say

Related Tours

Extraordinary East Africa

Extraordinary East Africa

Explore Rwanda and Uganda’s outstanding natural beauty, hospitality, and rare mountain gorillas on this expansive East African itinerary.

Overview

Known for their outstanding natural beauty, incredible hospitality, and the rare mountain gorillas, Rwanda and Uganda are two of the must-see countries in East Africa. Over this expansive  itinerary, you’ll see firsthand what makes them so special

Trip Highlights

Information

Trip Info

Dry Seasons in Uganda – December to February, June to August

During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F) during the day. The average rainfall per month ranges from 46mm (1.8”) to 86mm  (3.4”). It is an ideal time to visit for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking, as the drier conditions make it easier to navigate through the national parks.

Wet Seasons in Uganda – March to May, September to November

This period experiences relatively higher precipitation, with rainfalls ranging from 86mm (3.6”) from September to November to averages of around 147mm (5.8”) from March to May. The rainforest landscapes become lush and vibrant during this time, but it’s important to note that travel conditions can be more challenging due to occasional heavy rains and muddy trails. However, the rainy season also offers unique opportunities for birdwatching and witnessing the spectacular waterfalls at their fullest.

Best Times To Spot Wildlife in Uganda

In Uganda, game viewing in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park is excellent December through February and June through October. In November and March it is good, and it is fair in April and May. 

For Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda’s northernmost park, wildlife viewing is better from September through May – the area’s dry season – as animals head for reliable water sources. From April through August, there is still a decent amount of wildlife and it’s the best period of the year for birding.

Dry Season In Rwanda – June to September

The weather during these is typically characterized by warm and sunny days, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). These periods are considered excellent for visiting Rwanda’s national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, as the dry conditions offer better visibility and ease of exploration. July’s rainfall is the lowest at just 11mm (0.4”), with June (19mm / 0.7”) and August (31mm / 1.2”) just a touch higher.

Wet Season In Rwanda – October to May

The rainfall and temperature remain relatively constant in Rwanda due to its position on the equator. Rainfall averages at least 77mm (3”) a month during this period, with a high in April of 154mm (6.1”). Afternoon temperatures are usually around 27°C/81°F, though they drop in popular regions like Nyungwe (21°C/70°F) and Volcanoes National Park (16°C/61°F).

Best Times To Spot Wildlife in Rwanda

In Rwanda, game viewing in Volcanoes/Nyungwe is excellent December through March and June through October. It is good in November, and fair in April and May.

Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

Day 1-Arrival in Kigali

Arrival in Kigali and transfer to your accommodation.

Day 2-3 Kigali - Nyungwe Forest

On the way to Nyungwe Forest we will stop in the town of Butare (Huye) where we will visit the National Museum of Rwanda for an insight into the cultural heritage of this fascinating country. After breakfast, we visit a tea plantation including an opportunity to try your hand at picking tea. Afterwards, we visit the tea factory. Optional activities can be booked, such as primate walk and bird watching, as well as various walks. Nyungwe also has a community centre called “Banda Community Village”, where you can try different food, basket weaving and banana beer. If time does not allow this visit or if beer production is not taking place, similar activities can be carried out in Uganda.

Kibuye

This morning we drive to Kibuye and visit Nyange church, a new church built as a memorial to the 3,000 people killed here when the original church was destroyed during the genocide. In the afternoon we take a boat trip on Lake Kivu where we’ll see the huge colony of fruit bats that form great clouds in the sky, and Amahoro Island, the island of peace. For our second day, we visit the L’Esperance children’s orphanage and village. The whole day will be dedicated to this visit.

Gisenyi - Kibuye

After breakfast, we drive to Gisenyi. Visit a fishing village, enjoy a bath in the hot springs and visit the coffee island where you can see the whole coffee production process – and taste the coffee, of course! Later, there will be time to relax in the lodge or enjoy a walk along the shores of Lake Kivu.

Gisenyi -Volcanoes National Park

We will drive from Gisenyi to the home of the mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park. There is also the possibility of a visit to see banana & sorghum beer production in Musanze, on the way to the national park. Today you can climb a volcano or visit the tomb of Dian Fossey. There are several ways to enjoy Kinigi’s cultural entertainment.

Volcanoes National Park -Lake Mulehe (UG)

We say farewell to Rwanda and drive across the border to Lake Mutanda in Uganda. With the Virunga volcano as its backdrop, this is certainly a spot for some great scenic photos. A boat tour is possible. On your second day, we’ll have a very early breakfast, then go into Mgahinga National Park for Golden Monkey tracking, and you will be humbled by these primates of the Virunga Ranges. In the afternoon visit the indigenous Batwa people on a community walk

Lake Mulehe (UG) -Lake Bunyonyi

We’ll drive for a couple of hours to Lake Bunyonyi where you will have time to relax, take a nature walk, enjoy watching the abundant birdlife or maybe wander through the local market at Rutinda where many people still bring their produce by canoe. You could even try your hand at paddling a traditional dugout canoe or go swimming in the hippo, croc and bilharzia-free waters.

Lake Bunyonyi- -Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The wonder visit to Kiyebe village day! Today you will visit Kiyebe, the complete wonder village. This is perhaps one of the most remote, and traditional village in Uganda. It is the only village with no access through by road as its main rough mountainous road only stops at the small trading centre called mukyogo a name originating from the only community elephant pond in Uganda. You can plant your own tree, collect honey from the beehive and then if you want, enjoy local and national beers with the villagers. You will also have great local food that is fresh and organic and the dancing and singing of this community is nothing you can even imagine. It’s impossible to miss a visit to this village. On your next day, it’s time to put your boots on and grab a sturdy walking stick, today is a once in a lifetime experience: Gorilla tracking! It is one of the best Ugandan travel experiences you can have. You will be hiking up in the mountains which can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on how far the gorillas are.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Ishasha

After breakfast, we drive to Ishasha, one of the few regions in Africa where lions can be spotted climbing trees and lounging on branches. Therefore, make sure that during the game drive you are not only looking out over the savannah, but also have your eyes focused up in the trees!

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today we get up early and continue our search for the tree climbing lions. After breakfast, we drive to the northern part of the Queen Elizabeth National Park. If time permits, we can also visit Katwe Salt Lake. On our second day, you will go for the Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge. Hippos, buffalo, crocodiles and many species of birds can be spotted during the afternoon boat trip on the Kazinga Channel.

Queen Elizabeth National Park -Rwenzori Mountains - Fort Portal

After an early breakfast, we drive to the Ruwenzori Mountains for a one-day hike. On the Kilembe Trail you get an insight into the flora and fauna of this unique mountain range. After, we drive to Fort Portal for the night.

Fort Portal - Semuliki National Park - Kibale National Park

As we negotiate the twists and turns of the road, the landscape changes, eventually opening out into a magnificent view across Semuliki National Park. After visiting the park and the hot springs, we drive to Kibale National Park. The next day, you will be hiking off the beaten track, through the jungle in search of chimpanzees. Once you find them, it will be a fascinating experience as you watch them play, feed and swing through the trees, which is highly entertaining. Primate and bird watching will be the highlights of the afternoon walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

Kibale National Park - Murchison Falls National Park

We continue to Murchison National Park, home to buffalo and elephants as well as gentle, graceful giraffes. With a bit of luck, we’ll also see lions and leopards on our evening game drive.

Our next day here starts with an early morning game drive and a relaxing afternoon boat ride along the Victoria Nile River where you will encounter animals gathering on the riverbanks and an abundance of crocodiles and hippos. The boat will take you close to bottom of the thundering Murchison waterfall, where the powerful river Nile forces its way through a gap only 7 metres wide and over 43 metres high.

Then on our final morning, we’ll start the day with another boat trip, this time heading the other way to explore the Nile delta. Keep your eyes peeled for the prehistoric-looking Shoebill stork. An afternoon game drive follows.

Murchison Falls National Park - Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

We start the day with a morning game drive before heading to Ziwa Sanctuary for an afternoon walk with the rhinos or relaxation around the lodge.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Entebbe

After breakfast, we set out on a rhino tracking expedition. This special experience brings you very close to the rhinos, and you will be able to learn about the steps being taken to protect this endangered species. After, we head to Entebbe.

On your next day, we will drive to Mabamba swamp to search for the shy, prehistoric-looking shoebill. In the afternoon we will return to Entebbe and explore the birdlife along the shores of Lake Victoria.

For the last day of your Ugandan tour we’ll spend it in Entebbe and the surrounding area. After a farewell dinner (maybe some famous Lake Victoria grilled fish) and drinks, we will drop you at the airport for your flight home. As your plane takes off, we hope you are already starting to plan your next African safari adventure.

Details

Trip Details

Inclusions

Exclusions

Prices

  • 2 pax based on a double room $15,035/person
  • 4 pax based on 2 double rooms $11,167/person
  • 6 pax based on 3 double rooms $9,878/person

Our tailor-made trips are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African safari experience a memorable one. As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs.

Please treat all pricing as a guide only, as customisations made to this itinerary, style of travel, and number of guests may raise or lower the overall cost. All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice. Single supplements may apply.

For the best, most current rates available, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

Warren Anwkasa,
Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Inquire About This Tour

All our itineraries can be adapted to suit your personal interests and preferences. 

Please feel free to discuss these with us so we can personalise your tour for your maximum enjoyment.

For the most current rates for your party, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

What Our Guests Say

Related Tours

A Moment With The Mountain Gorillas

A Moment With The Mountain Gorillas

Follow Dian Fossey’s footsteps to meet the mountain gorillas on a 3-day Rwanda tour. A lifetime experience connecting with nature.

Overview

This is a chance many people wait their whole life for – to follow in the footsteps of Dian Fossey and meet the incredible mountain gorillas. This 3-day Rwanda tour is a lifetime experience you will never forget. During this encounter, time slows down as you get a moment to experience a connection with nature unlike any other.

Trip Highlights

Information

Trip Info

Dry Season In Rwanda – June to September

The weather during these is typically characterized by warm and sunny days, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). These periods are considered excellent for visiting Rwanda’s national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, as the dry conditions offer better visibility and ease of exploration. July’s rainfall is the lowest at just 11mm (0.4”), with June (19mm / 0.7”) and August (31mm / 1.2”) just a touch higher.

Wet Season In Rwanda – October to May

The rainfall and temperature remain relatively constant in Rwanda due to its position on the equator. Rainfall averages at least 77mm (3”) a month during this period, with a high in April of 154mm (6.1”). Afternoon temperatures are usually around 27°C/81°F, though they drop in popular regions like Nyungwe (21°C/70°F) and Volcanoes National Park (16°C/61°F).

Best Times To Spot Wildlife in Rwanda

In Rwanda, game viewing in Volcanoes/Nyungwe is excellent December through March and June through October. It is good in November, and fair in April and May.

Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Kigali

Arrive and transfer to your accommodation

Day 2 - Kigali - Volcanoes National Park

We will pick you up from your accommodation and drive to the Volcanoes national park. Put your boots on, today is a once-in-a-lifetime experience: Gorilla tracking! You will be face to face with one of the most fascinating creatures in the world, and you will have one precious hour in their awe-inspiring company, observing as they interact, eat and play. During the hike, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful Rwandan scenery and interesting wildlife. 

Day 3 - Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, we will return to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to tour the city and learn about the history of Rwanda through the tales told by its capital; get acquainted with pre-colonial and colonial Rwanda, the 1994 genocide and see the new developments in this growing city. You will be dropped off in Kigali city or at Kigali airport in time for your scheduled flight.

Details

Trip Details

Inclusions

Exclusions

Prices

  • 2 pax based on a double room $3,768/person
  • 4 pax based on 2 double rooms $3,285/person
  • 6 pax based on 3 double rooms $3,058/person

Our tailor-made trips are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African safari experience a memorable one. As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs.

Please treat all pricing as a guide only, as customisations made to this itinerary, style of travel, and number of guests may raise or lower the overall cost. All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice. Single supplements may apply.

For the best, most current rates available, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

Warren Anwkasa,
Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris

Inquire About This Tour

All our itineraries can be adapted to suit your personal interests and preferences. 

Please feel free to discuss these with us so we can personalise your tour for your maximum enjoyment.

For the most current rates for your party, request a quote or speak to one of Kikooko Africa Safari’s travel experts.

What Our Guests Say

Find More Like

Related Tours