6 Days Akagera Wildlife & Bwindi Gorilla Trek

Tour Overview

This 6 Days Akagera Wildlife & Bwindi Gorilla Trek safari takes you through the most iconic national parks of Rwanda and Uganda. The journey begins in the open savannah plains of Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only Big Five park, followed by an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

You will then return to Rwanda to track the playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park and conclude your safari in the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park, renowned for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, and scenic waterfall trails.

Safari Highlights

  • Game drive in Akagera National Park
  • Boat safari on Lake Ihema
  • Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi
  • Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes NP
  • Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest
  • Nyungwe Canopy Walk
  • Scenic waterfall hike

6 Days Akagera Wildlife & Bwindi Gorillas Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Akagera National Park

After breakfast, meet your safari guide and drive east to Akagera National Park (approx. 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a guided nature walk followed by lunch at the lodge.
In the afternoon, take a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds such as the African fish eagle and papyrus gonolek.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Rutete Eco Lodge
  • Mid-range: Akagera Transit Lodge / Akagera Rhino Lodge

Day 2: Morning Game Drive – Transfer to Bwindi (Uganda)

Set out early for a morning game drive in Akagera, searching for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, hippos, and various primates.
After the game drive, proceed to the Rwanda–Uganda border and continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Dinner and overnight near the park.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp /Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
  • Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge /Bakiga Lodge / Gorilla Mist Cap

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Transfer to Musanze

After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking guidelines.
Begin your trek through dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Trekking can take between 2 and 8 hours depending on gorilla movements. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Later, cross back into Rwanda and transfer to Musanze for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Amikus Hotel
  • Mid-range: Classic Lodge/Le Bambaou Gorilla Lodge

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking – Transfer to Nyungwe National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Kinigi Park Headquarters for briefing before starting the golden monkey trek in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Golden monkey tracking is relatively easy and highly rewarding, offering excellent photography opportunities.
After the trek and lunch, drive south to Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Ken Barham Guesthouse
  • Mid-range: Emeraude Kivu Resort / Chimpanzee Lodge

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk – Nyungwe

Depart very early for chimpanzee trekking briefing at Uwinka or Cyamudongo trail. Nyungwe Forest is home to 13 primate species, over 300 bird species, and exceptional plant diversity.
After the chimpanzee trek, relax or enjoy the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended high above the forest with breathtaking views.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 6: Waterfall Trail – Transfer to Kigali (Departure)

After breakfast, attend a briefing and begin the Waterfall Trail hike, leading to the scenic Umubasi Waterfall near Gisakura.
The trail offers rewarding views, forest streams, birdlife, and lush rainforest scenery.
Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

END

Safari Inclusions

  • Airport transfers (Day 1 & Day 6)
  • Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • English-speaking driver/guide
  • Full board accommodation
  • Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800)
  • Golden monkey trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Park entrance fees
  • Boat safari on Lake Ihema
  • Meals en route

Safari Exclusions

  • International & domestic flights
  • Accommodation before or after the tour
  • Personal expenses (visas, travel insurance, souvenirs)
  • Drinks and alcoholic beverages