8 Days Rwanda Safari
8 Days Rwanda Safari
Ultimate Guide to an 8 Days Rwanda Safari: A Journey into the Heart of Africa
Embark on a transformative adventure across the lush hills, vibrant culture, and pristine wilderness of Rwanda with this expertly crafted 8-day safari itinerary. Renowned globally for its breathtaking gorilla treks, Rwanda offers so much more—from volcanic landscapes to diverse wildlife and rich traditions that echo through every valley.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to make the most of your Rwanda safari, with essential tips, destinations, activities, and must-know details. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned traveler.
Visit Turkana Wildlife Safaris to book your tailor-made Rwanda experience!
📍 Why Choose Rwanda for a Safari?
Rwanda stands out among African safari destinations for its well-preserved ecosystems, remarkable conservation efforts, and ease of access. Here’s why:
- Home to Mountain Gorillas: Track endangered gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
- Safe & Clean: Kigali is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities.
- Unspoiled Nature: Enjoy untouched forests, serene lakes, and volcanic backdrops.
- Cultural Richness: Experience Rwandan hospitality, history, and vibrant traditions.
🗺️ Day-by-Day Rwanda Safari Itinerary (8 Days)
Let’s dive into the detailed day-to-day Rwanda safari plan, with curated stops and activities for an immersive, world-class experience.
🦍 Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Gateway to Rwanda
- Airport pickup by an expert guide from Turkana Wildlife Safaris
- Check-in at a 4–5-star hotel in Kigali
- Take a city tour: Visit the Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, and vibrant Nyamirambo Quarter
- Optional: Explore local markets & cafés
Overnight: Hotel in Kigali
⛰️ Day 2: Kigali – Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Scenic drive to Musanze, home of Volcanoes National Park
- En route, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
- Learn about traditional music, dance, and Rwandan heritage
- Afternoon nature walk or local community immersion
Overnight: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park
🏞️ Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Highlight Experience ❤️
- Pre-trek briefing from Rwanda Development Board guides
- Trek through lush montane forest in search of a habituated gorilla family
- Spend one magical hour observing gorillas up close
- Afternoon leisure or optional cultural tours
📌 Learn more about gorilla trekking tours available at Turkana Wildlife Safaris.
Overnight: Lodge/camp near the park
🐒 Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking and Nature Walk
- Guided trek to observe elusive Golden Monkeys
- Discover native plant species, birds, and primates
- Optional visit to Twin Lakes (Burera & Ruhondo)
Overnight: Continue stay in Musanze
🌋 Day 5: Transfer to Lake Kivu – Gisenyi Town
- Drive to Gisenyi, a picturesque lakeside town on Lake Kivu
- Enjoy:
- Boat ride on the lake
- Beach relaxation
- Rwandan coffee tour
- Optional: Canoeing, Hot Springs, or Lakefront Dining
📌 Experience Lake Kivu adventures
Overnight: Beachside lodge in Gisenyi
🌿 Day 6: Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Early morning drive to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests
- Stopover at Nyanza King’s Palace and Ethnographic Museum
- Leisure evening or forest-edge excursion
Overnight: Nyungwe Lodge
🌳 Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk
- Early trek in search of chimpanzees in Nyungwe’s dense forest
- Post-lunch: Experience the Nyungwe canopy walk
- Elevated walkway 50m above ground among lush treetops
- Optional afternoon birdwatching or waterfall hike
Overnight: Lodge in Nyungwe
✈️ Day 8: Return to Kigali & Departure
- Scenic return drive via Huye
- Stop at local craft markets for souvenirs
- Drop-off at Kigali International Airport
🐾 Featured Safari Experiences
Explore top-rated highlights of an 8 Days Rwanda Safari with Turkana Wildlife Safaris:
🌟 Gorilla Trekking
- Up-close moments with a gorilla family
- Conservation in action
- UNESCO-protected ecosystem
🐒 Chimpanzee Tracking
- Fast-paced forest chase
- Rare primates in natural habitat
🦜 Birdwatching & Nature Trails
- Over 300 species across parks
- Ideal for eco-tourists & photographers
🛶 Lake & Cultural Tours
- Traditional boat rides
- Coffee and tea plantation tours
- Indigenous dances and storytelling
🏕️ Recommended Safari Packing List
Here’s a brief checklist designed for your comfort and safety:
✔️ Clothing
- Breathable layers (light + warm)
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots
- Long sleeves/pants (for forest treks)
✔️ Gear
- Binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Antibacterial wipes and sanitizer
- Daypack
- Power bank
✔️ Essentials
- Insect repellent
- Travel adapter
- Sunscreen and hat
- Valid travel documents & travel insurance
📌 For a complete checklist, visit Turkana Wildlife Safaris Packing Guide
⭐ Why Book with Turkana Wildlife Safaris?
✅ Licensed Guides & Custom Itineraries
✅ Ethical Wildlife Viewing
✅ Luxury & Budget Options
✅ Community-First Partnerships
✅ 24/7 Local Support
Traveling with Turkana means connecting deeply with nature, culture, and conservation.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is gorilla trekking safe in Rwanda?
Absolutely. Volcanoes National Park enforces strict rules for visitor and gorilla safety, and the treks are guided by expert professionals.
❓ When is the best time for an 8-day safari in Rwanda?
The dry seasons (June–September & December–February) offer:
- Easier trekking
- Clearer views
- Comfortable temperatures
📌 Book in advance with Turkana Wildlife Safaris during peak months.
❓ How much does a Rwanda gorilla permit cost?
As of 2026:
- USD $1,500 per person
- Limited daily availability
👉 You can secure permits here
❓ Can I combine Rwanda with Uganda or Kenya?
Yes! Turkana offers multi-country safaris including:
Check out East Africa safari packages
❓ What level of fitness is required?
- Moderate level for most treks
- Gorillas may require 2–6 hours of hiking
- Alternative tours available for Adults or children
📌 Learn more from Turkana experts about fitness for trekking