Rwanda’s Plains, Rainforests and Volcanoes: An 11-Day Safari with Purpose

Rwanda is one of Africa’s most remarkable success stories. Once defined by tragedy, it is now a beacon of conservation, community and resilience. This 11-day journey takes you across its most extraordinary landscapes, from the rolling hills of Kigali to the vast plains of Akagera, the dense rainforests of Nyungwe and finally the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park.

It is a journey that captures everything special about Rwanda: wildlife, wilderness, culture and an unshakable spirit of renewal.

Days 1–3: Kigali

Stay: The Retreat by Heaven

Your journey begins in Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest, safest and most forward-thinking cities. It is the perfect introduction to Rwanda’s culture, cuisine and creativity.

Spend a full day exploring the capital with a private guide, from the vibrant local markets and artisan studios to the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial. Between stops, pause for Rwandan coffee or lunch at Heaven Restaurant, one of the city’s best-loved spots.

The Retreat by Heaven is a peaceful base surrounded by tropical gardens, just minutes from the city centre. Known for its eco-friendly design and warm hospitality, it is an ideal place to rest after your flight before the adventure ahead.

Days 3–5: Akagera National Park

Stay: Wilderness Magashi Camp

Leaving Kigali behind, you travel east to Akagera National Park, a landscape of rolling savannah, shimmering lakes and acacia-dotted plains. Once heavily poached, the park has been restored by African Parks and is now home to the Big Five, thriving populations of hippo and crocodile, and over 500 bird species.

Magashi Camp sits on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga and is one of Rwanda’s most exclusive safari lodges. With just six luxury tents, it offers private game drives, boat safaris and night drives, all led by expert guides. It is a rare chance to experience a traditional safari setting within Rwanda’s borders and a meaningful contrast to the country’s rainforest regions.

Days 5–8: Nyungwe National Park

Stay: One&Only Nyungwe House

Next, you take to the skies on a scenic helicopter transfer to Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s last remaining mountain rainforests. This vast, ancient ecosystem shelters over a quarter of the continent’s primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and mangabeys.

Base yourself at One&Only Nyungwe House, set among tea plantations on the forest’s edge. Days here revolve around primate treks, forest hikes and moments of stillness on the treetop canopy walkway. You might wake to the sound of chimpanzees calling through the mist or spend your afternoon watching colobus monkeys swinging through the branches.

Back at the lodge, enjoy spa treatments, yoga and farm-to-table dining, a reminder that even in the wildest corners of Rwanda, comfort is never far away.

Days 8–11: Volcanoes National Park

Stay: Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Your final stop is Volcanoes National Park, home to the legendary mountain gorillas. The drive north winds through emerald farmland and terraced hills before reaching the foot of the Virunga volcanoes, where Singita Kwitonda Lodge blends seamlessly into the landscape.

Kwitonda’s design reflects its surroundings, using volcanic stone, terracotta brick and thatched rooftops framed by views of Mount Sabyinyo. Each suite has a private plunge pool, open fireplace and floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the rainforest.

Over two unforgettable days, you will have the opportunity to trek through the forest to see both the golden monkeys and the critically endangered mountain gorillas. These encounters are highly regulated, deeply moving and directly support conservation in the region.

It is a fitting finale to an extraordinary journey that brings you face to face with the wildlife that defines Rwanda’s story.

This itinerary showcases the best of Rwanda in a seamless flow of experiences, from urban culture to classic safari, rainforest exploration and gorilla trekking. Every lodge and activity supports local communities and conservation efforts, ensuring your journey leaves a positive impact long after you return home.

This itinerary costs around $25,000 to $30,000 per person, including accommodation on a full board basis, all transfers and private guiding. Activities such as helicopter transfers, spa treatments and additional excursions are optional and can be tailored to your preferences. Final pricing will depend on the time of year and the details of your trip.