8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour – Ultimate Wildlife Adventure
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is an extraordinary African wildlife adventure combining mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and Big Five game viewing across Rwanda’s three most spectacular national parks. This expertly designed eight-day safari begins in Kigali before exploring the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, where chimpanzees and other fascinating primates inhabit beautiful tropical forests. The journey continues to Volcanoes National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas, before reaching the remarkable savannah wilderness of Akagera National Park for unforgettable wildlife game drives and a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ihema.
Your 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour offers one of Rwanda’s most rewarding combinations of primate encounters and traditional African wildlife experiences. In Nyungwe, follow experienced rangers through dense rainforest in search of wild chimpanzees, listening to their distinctive calls while exploring one of Africa’s most important montane forest ecosystems. Continue northwest through Rwanda’s spectacular hills towards the Virunga Mountains, where an extraordinary mountain gorilla trekking experience introduces you to a habituated gorilla family in its natural habitat. Travellers can observe the fascinating social behaviour of these magnificent primates while learning about conservation efforts protecting their remaining populations.
The adventure concludes in eastern Rwanda, where the beautiful grasslands, wetlands and lakes of Akagera National Park provide opportunities to search for Africa’s famous Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses. Enjoy guided wildlife game drives, photograph giraffes and zebras across the savannah, and experience a relaxing Lake Ihema boat cruise surrounded by hippos, crocodiles and remarkable birdlife. Designed for couples, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, families with eligible teenagers and travellers seeking exclusive Rwanda safari experiences, the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour combines private transportation, professional guiding, comfortable accommodation and carefully coordinated trekking permits.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary for the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali International Airport – Welcome to Rwanda
Your 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour begins upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, where a professional representative from Nextgen Safaris will welcome you to the Land of a Thousand Hills. After completing immigration formalities and collecting your luggage, meet your experienced English-speaking driver-guide for a private transfer to Kigali Serena Hotel. During the journey, receive an introduction to Rwanda’s remarkable conservation achievements, its beautiful landscapes and the exciting wildlife experiences awaiting you over the coming days.
Depending on your international arrival time, spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel or enjoy an optional introduction to Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Kigali is known for its scenic green hills, attractive neighbourhoods, cultural attractions and welcoming atmosphere. Travellers arriving early may request a short Kigali city tour, while those arriving later can relax after their journey. Your driver-guide will explain the safari programme, accommodation arrangements and the requirements for your upcoming chimpanzee and gorilla trekking experiences. Information about Rwanda gorilla trekking permits will also be reviewed so you understand the confirmed trekking date and park procedures.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner, depending on arrival time
Main Activities: Airport pickup, safari briefing and relaxation
Day 2: Kigali to Nyungwe National Park – Scenic Southern Rwanda Journey
After breakfast, depart Kigali for the scenic journey southwest towards Nyungwe National Park, one of Africa’s most remarkable tropical rainforest destinations. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, where rolling hills, cultivated terraces, rural communities and lush vegetation create picturesque landscapes. Depending on the travelling schedule, your driver-guide may arrange an appropriate stop around Huye for refreshments, lunch or a short cultural experience. The journey offers an excellent introduction to Rwanda’s rural landscapes and the geographical diversity that characterises this beautiful East African country.
As your 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour approaches Nyungwe, the surroundings become increasingly green, with tea plantations, forested mountains and mist-covered valleys dominating the landscape. Nyungwe protects a rich tropical forest ecosystem supporting chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, other primates and numerous bird species. Continue to Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, where you can relax while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding highlands and rainforest. Your driver-guide will explain the following morning’s chimpanzee trekking arrangements, including the designated briefing location, early departure time and suitable hiking equipment.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activities: Scenic transfer to Nyungwe National Park and relaxation
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest – Optional Canopy Walkway
Today brings the first major great-ape encounter of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour. Depart very early for the designated chimpanzee trekking briefing point in Nyungwe National Park. Professional park rangers and trackers will explain the trekking regulations, wildlife-viewing procedures and physical conditions before guiding you into the ancient tropical rainforest. As you explore the forest, listen for distant chimpanzee calls echoing through the valleys and observe the remarkable vegetation, colourful birds and other primates inhabiting this biodiverse ecosystem.
Chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding because the animals move freely through the forest and may travel considerable distances. Once your tracking group locates the chimpanzees, enjoy the permitted observation period while watching their feeding, grooming, climbing and social interactions. After returning from the forest, enjoy lunch and relaxation at your lodge. If the trekking excursion finishes sufficiently early and an appropriate activity slot is available, you may request an optional Nyungwe canopy walkway experience. This remarkable suspension walkway offers beautiful views over the rainforest canopy, forested valleys and surrounding mountains. The canopy walk is not guaranteed on the same day because chimpanzee tracking duration varies.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activity: Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Optional Activity: Nyungwe canopy walkway, subject to availability and trekking duration
Day 4: Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Western Rwanda
Following breakfast, begin the scenic journey northwest towards Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s famous mountain gorillas. Depending on the selected route and road conditions, the drive may pass through western Rwanda’s mountainous landscapes, picturesque communities and sections of the Lake Kivu corridor. The journey offers beautiful views of cultivated hillsides, valleys and distant mountains. Where timing permits, your driver-guide may arrange a brief scenic stop overlooking Lake Kivu, providing an opportunity to appreciate the country’s magnificent western landscapes. Travellers interested in spending additional time by the lake can explore Lake Kivu relaxation experiences when customising their itinerary.
This is one of the longer transfer days of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour, so an early departure is essential. As you approach Musanze and Kinigi, the impressive Virunga volcanoes begin dominating the horizon, introducing an entirely different natural environment from Nyungwe’s tropical rainforest. Continue to Sambora Kinigi, check into your accommodation and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Your guide will explain the mountain gorilla trekking procedures, including the official morning briefing, assigned trekking groups, hiking conditions and important wildlife conservation regulations. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay before tomorrow’s extraordinary gorilla encounter.
Accommodation: Sambora Kinigi
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activity: Scenic transfer from Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Today is one of the most anticipated experiences of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour. Following an early breakfast, travel to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters at Kinigi for registration and the official ranger briefing. Experienced park guides will explain the trekking regulations, responsible wildlife-viewing practices and safety procedures before assigning visitors to habituated mountain gorilla families. Accompanied by professional trackers, begin your guided trek through bamboo forests, dense vegetation and the magnificent volcanic landscapes of the Virunga Mountains. The trekking duration depends on the location of the gorillas, weather and terrain conditions.
Once your assigned gorilla family is located, visitors are normally permitted to spend up to one hour observing these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat. Watch the remarkable behaviour of silverbacks, mothers and young gorillas as they feed, groom, rest and interact within their family groups. This unforgettable encounter provides rare opportunities to appreciate the intelligence, social bonds and conservation importance of endangered mountain gorillas. Travellers can learn more about gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and the procedures for securing Rwanda gorilla trekking permits. Following the trek, return to Sambora Kinigi for lunch, relaxation and dinner.
Accommodation: Sambora Kinigi
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activity: Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 6: Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park – Enter Rwanda’s Savannah Wilderness
After breakfast, depart the Volcanoes region and begin the scenic journey southeast towards Akagera National Park through Kigali and eastern Rwanda. This stage of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour reveals the remarkable diversity of Rwanda’s landscapes, from cool volcanic highlands and agricultural terraces to warmer savannah countryside. Your driver-guide will arrange suitable comfort and lunch stops while introducing the conservation history of Akagera and the wildlife species that inhabit the park.
Upon reaching Akagera National Park, complete the entrance formalities before continuing to Ruzizi Tented Lodge, beautifully situated beside Lake Ihema. Depending on arrival time, road conditions and the selected lodge check-in arrangements, an introductory afternoon game drive may be possible. Akagera is Rwanda’s principal traditional wildlife safari destination and supports lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, rhinoceroses, giraffes, zebras and numerous antelope species. Spend the evening relaxing at Ruzizi Tented Lodge, enjoying its peaceful lakeside atmosphere and preparing for tomorrow’s dedicated Big Five wildlife safari.
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activities: Transfer to Akagera National Park and optional introductory game viewing
Day 7: Akagera Big Five Wildlife Game Drive and Lake Ihema Boat Cruise
Today is dedicated to the magnificent savannah wilderness of Akagera National Park, the only national park in Rwanda offering opportunities to encounter all five members of Africa’s famous Big Five. Begin with an early morning game drive through the park’s varied grasslands, woodland habitats and scenic valleys. Accompanied by your experienced driver-guide, search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses while observing giraffes, zebras, topis, impalas and other wildlife. The park’s diverse landscapes create exceptional opportunities for photography, and the early morning hours are particularly rewarding for observing animal activity.
Following the morning wildlife experience, return towards the Lake Ihema area for lunch and relaxation before enjoying a scheduled afternoon boat cruise. The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour becomes even more memorable as you explore the beautiful waters of Lake Ihema, where hippos, Nile crocodiles and numerous waterbirds inhabit the lake and its surrounding wetlands. Look out for African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons and other bird species while admiring the scenery. Elephants and other mammals may occasionally approach the shoreline. After the boat safari, return to Ruzizi Tented Lodge for your final safari dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Main Activities: Akagera Big Five wildlife game drive and Lake Ihema boat cruise
Day 8: Akagera National Park to Kigali – International Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking the peaceful surroundings of Akagera National Park before beginning your return journey towards Kigali. Depending on your international departure schedule, your driver-guide may arrange a short morning game drive while leaving the park, providing a final opportunity to observe the savannah wildlife. The drive from Akagera towards Kigali passes beautiful eastern Rwanda countryside, cultivated hills and traditional communities, offering a memorable conclusion to your journey.
As the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour approaches Kigali, reflect on the extraordinary experiences enjoyed across Rwanda’s three most remarkable national parks. From chimpanzee encounters in Nyungwe’s ancient rainforest and mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to Big Five wildlife viewing and Lake Ihema’s peaceful waterways, this safari reveals the country’s remarkable natural diversity. Your Nextgen Safaris driver-guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your onward international flight, marking the conclusion of an unforgettable Rwanda wildlife adventure.
Accommodation: End of Safari
Meal Plan: Breakfast; other meals according to departure arrangements
Main Activity: Scenic transfer from Akagera to Kigali International Airport
Recommended Flight: Afternoon or evening international departure
Why Choose This 8-Day Rwanda Gorilla, Chimpanzee and Big Five Safari?
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is designed for travellers seeking a comprehensive Rwanda wildlife experience within a carefully planned eight-day journey. Unlike itineraries that focus exclusively on mountain gorillas, this safari combines the country’s most important primate destinations with an exceptional traditional Big Five wildlife experience in Akagera National Park.
1. Encounter Endangered Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
Mountain gorilla trekking is among Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife adventures. Volcanoes National Park protects Rwanda’s section of the Virunga Mountains, where visitors can trek through spectacular bamboo forests and montane vegetation in search of habituated gorilla families. Observing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat creates unforgettable memories and provides insight into the conservation efforts protecting endangered mountain gorillas.
2. Track Wild Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Rainforest
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour includes a guided chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe National Park. The rainforest supports a fascinating collection of primates, birds and plant species, creating an entirely different wildlife experience from the volcanic forests of northern Rwanda. Chimpanzee tracking is particularly rewarding for visitors interested in primate behaviour, forest ecology and wildlife photography.
3. Experience Africa’s Big Five in Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park offers an exciting contrast to Rwanda’s rainforest destinations. Its beautiful savannah plains, wetlands and woodlands support lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses, alongside giraffes, zebras and numerous antelope species. Although sightings of all five animals cannot be guaranteed, the park provides excellent opportunities for traditional African wildlife viewing.
4. Enjoy a Scenic Boat Safari on Lake Ihema
A boat cruise on Lake Ihema is one of Akagera’s most memorable wildlife activities. Visitors enjoy beautiful lake scenery while observing hippos, crocodiles, wetland birds and occasional mammals along the shoreline. The experience complements the game drives by introducing a completely different perspective on Rwanda’s wildlife and natural ecosystems.
5. Explore Three National Parks With Private Guiding
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour combines Nyungwe, Volcanoes and Akagera in one professionally organised itinerary. Private transportation, experienced driver-guiding and carefully selected accommodation make it possible to enjoy Rwanda’s exceptional wildlife diversity while maintaining a comfortable travel experience. The safari can also be customised for couples, families with eligible teenagers, photographers and travellers seeking luxury Rwanda holidays.
Safari Highlights of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Guided chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park.
- Big Five wildlife game drives in Akagera National Park.
- Lake Ihema boat cruise with hippos, crocodiles and birdlife.
- Scenic journeys through Rwanda’s magnificent highlands.
- Opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
- Optional Nyungwe canopy walkway experience.
- Seven nights of carefully selected accommodation.
- Private safari transportation with professional driver-guiding.
- Personalised safari arrangements and trekking permit coordination.
Accommodation During the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Accommodation during the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is carefully selected to provide comfort, excellent hospitality and convenient access to Rwanda’s major national parks. The journey begins at Kigali Serena Hotel, a comfortable base for visitors arriving in the capital. In the Nyungwe region, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel offers attractive views of the surrounding rainforest, hills and tea plantations. Its location provides a practical base for early chimpanzee tracking and optional forest activities.
The safari continues to Sambora Kinigi near Volcanoes National Park, where guests spend two nights surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of the Virunga Mountains. Staying close to the park’s main trekking area allows visitors to prepare comfortably for the early morning gorilla trekking briefing. Sambora Kinigi provides an attractive setting for relaxing after the forest experience and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of northern Rwanda.
The final two nights of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour are spent at Ruzizi Tented Lodge inside Akagera National Park. Located beside Lake Ihema, this intimate eco-lodge offers comfortable tented accommodation and beautiful lakeside surroundings. Guests can enjoy the sounds of nature, relaxing evenings and convenient access to the park’s southern wildlife-viewing areas. All accommodation can be customised according to budget, travel dates, room preferences and availability.
What’s Included and Excluded in the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour?
Safari Cost Includes
- One standard Rwanda mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller.
- One standard Nyungwe chimpanzee tracking permit per eligible traveller.
- Seven nights of accommodation at the selected safari lodges and hotel.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the main safari days, as specified.
- Private safari vehicle with an experienced English-speaking driver-guide.
- Kigali International Airport pickup and departure transfer.
- Scheduled road transfers between Kigali, Nyungwe, Volcanoes and Akagera.
- Scheduled national park entrance fees.
- Professional ranger-guiding for the included trekking experiences.
- Akagera National Park wildlife game drives described in the itinerary.
- Scheduled Lake Ihema boat cruise.
- Drinking water in the safari vehicle.
- Vehicle fuel and driver-guide operational expenses for included services.
Safari Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Rwanda.
- Tips and gratuities for safari guides, park rangers and lodge staff.
- Rwanda visa fees, where applicable.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
Optional Nyungwe canopy walks, additional cultural excursions, porter assistance and other personal activities can be arranged separately unless included in the confirmed quotation.
How Much Does the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour Cost?
The price of the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour depends on accommodation category, number of travellers, travel season, trekking permit fees and any additional activities requested. Mountain gorilla trekking is one of the largest individual costs because the standard international Rwanda gorilla trekking permit is US$1,500 per person. Chimpanzee tracking, park entrance fees, private guiding, road transportation and seven nights of accommodation also contribute to the overall safari quotation.
Travellers choosing comfortable mid-range accommodation may have a lower total package cost than those selecting exclusive luxury lodges. However, permit charges remain important fixed costs for eligible travellers, regardless of accommodation category. Private couples and small groups may have different per-person prices because transportation and guiding costs are distributed across different numbers of guests. For the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour, Nextgen Safaris prepares personalised quotations showing the selected lodges, included activities, trekking arrangements and total price.
Travellers interested in premium accommodation can request suitable upgrades in Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe or Akagera. Those travelling with family members or friends can also enquire about private group arrangements, suitable room configurations and vehicle capacity. To receive accurate pricing, request a personalised Rwanda safari quotation with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and accommodation preferences.
Rwanda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Permits
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour includes two regulated primate trekking experiences requiring advance permits. Mountain gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park, while chimpanzee tracking takes place in Nyungwe National Park. Both activities are subject to availability, visitor requirements and the regulations established by the relevant park authorities.
Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permit
The standard Rwanda mountain gorilla trekking permit costs US$1,500 per international visitor for one authorised trekking experience. The permit allows participation in a guided trek to an assigned habituated gorilla family, with up to one hour of observation after the gorillas are located.
Visitors must be at least 15 years old, follow the official ranger briefing and comply with health and conservation regulations. Special visitor categories or qualifying promotional arrangements may have different charges, so eligibility must be confirmed before booking.
Travellers interested in securing their preferred trekking date can explore Rwanda gorilla trekking permits for more information about booking requirements, preparation and availability.
Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park requires a separate activity permit and applicable park entrance arrangements. The published 2025–2026 international visitor activity tariff lists chimpanzee tracking at US$150 per person, excluding the separate park entrance charge. Rates for 2027 and later departures should be reconfirmed before a final quotation is issued.
Chimpanzee tracking normally begins very early in the morning, and trekking conditions depend on the selected tracking sector and movement of the chimpanzees. Visitors should have reasonable fitness and be prepared for forest trails, steep sections and potentially wet conditions.
Nextgen Safaris arranges permit coordination as part of the proposed 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour package, subject to availability.
Best Time for the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour can be enjoyed throughout the year, although the relatively dry months of June to September and December to February are particularly popular. During these periods, trekking trails in Volcanoes and Nyungwe may be more manageable, while the savannah landscapes of Akagera provide rewarding opportunities for wildlife viewing. Dry conditions can also make road transfers and photography more comfortable.
Travelling during wetter months offers beautiful green landscapes, atmospheric mountain scenery and rewarding birdwatching opportunities. Nyungwe and Volcanoes receive rainfall throughout the year, meaning forest trails may still be muddy even during relatively dry periods. In Akagera, seasonal vegetation and water availability influence wildlife movements and viewing conditions.
The best time for this eight-day Rwanda safari should therefore be selected according to trekking permit availability, accommodation demand, budget and personal travel interests rather than focusing exclusively on weather conditions.
How Difficult Is Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda?
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour includes two physically active forest experiences. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park can involve walking along uneven trails, climbing volcanic slopes and navigating dense vegetation. The duration of the trek varies according to the location of the assigned gorilla family, weather and terrain conditions. Some treks may be relatively manageable, while others require several hours of hiking.
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe can also be physically challenging because the forest is mountainous and chimpanzees are highly mobile. Visitors may need to follow rangers across forested slopes and uneven ground before locating the chimpanzees. Reasonable fitness, comfortable hiking boots, suitable clothing and sufficient drinking water are recommended.
Travellers with mobility concerns should discuss their requirements before booking. Nextgen Safaris can advise on practical arrangements, porter assistance where available and appropriate accommodation. Participation in trekking activities remains subject to the applicable park regulations.
What to Pack for the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Travellers should pack for a combination of cool mountain conditions, humid tropical rainforest and warm savannah weather. Essential items include sturdy waterproof hiking boots, comfortable walking trousers, long-sleeved shirts, a lightweight rain jacket, warm layers for early mornings and suitable clothing for game drives.
Additional recommended items include insect repellent, sunscreen, a sun hat, binoculars, a small daypack, personal medication and a camera with spare batteries. Gardening-style gloves and gaiters may be useful during gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, particularly when walking through dense vegetation or muddy forest trails.
Wildlife photographers should prepare equipment suitable for both low-light rainforest conditions and open savannah environments. Flash photography is prohibited during gorilla encounters, and all visitors must follow the ranger’s instructions regarding responsible wildlife observation.
Private and Luxury Rwanda Safari Options
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is ideally operated as a private safari, providing greater flexibility with sightseeing, accommodation preferences, photography stops and daily travel arrangements. Travellers enjoy private transportation and professional driver-guiding throughout the road safari, while gorilla and chimpanzee trekking take place in official park-managed groups.
Couples and honeymooners may prefer exclusive accommodation in the Volcanoes region, while families with eligible teenagers can request suitable room arrangements and a comfortable private safari vehicle. Wildlife photographers may wish to extend their stay in Akagera or arrange an additional gorilla trekking permit to increase opportunities for observing and photographing their preferred subjects.
Nextgen Safaris can customise the package to suit different budgets, travel interests and departure dates. Travellers seeking a more extensive Rwanda holiday can also consider adding golden monkey trekking, extra wildlife game drives or a relaxing Lake Kivu extension.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
1. What is the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour?
The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is a comprehensive seven-night safari combining mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe and Big Five wildlife game drives in Akagera. The journey begins and ends in Kigali, with private transportation, professional guiding and selected accommodation throughout.
2. Which national parks are included in this Rwanda safari?
The safari covers three major national parks: Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee tracking, Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking and Akagera National Park for Big Five wildlife viewing. Each destination offers a different environment, allowing travellers to experience Rwanda’s tropical rainforest, volcanic mountains and savannah ecosystems.
3. Where does mountain gorilla trekking take place in Rwanda?
Mountain gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. Visitors participate in guided treks through the Virunga Mountains, accompanied by experienced park rangers and trackers. Once a habituated gorilla family is located, visitors can normally spend up to one hour observing the animals.
4. Where does chimpanzee tracking take place?
Chimpanzee tracking takes place in Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda. The forest protects a remarkable collection of primates and other wildlife. Visitors follow professional rangers into the rainforest in search of chimpanzees, learning about their social behaviour and natural environment.
5. Is the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit included in the safari?
Yes. The proposed 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour includes one standard Rwanda gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller. Permit availability must be confirmed before booking, and each person participating in gorilla trekking requires their own valid permit.
6. How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda?
The standard international Rwanda gorilla trekking permit costs US$1,500 per person for one trekking experience. Special visitor categories or promotional arrangements may have different rates. Travellers can review Rwanda gorilla permit information and confirm applicable charges before booking.
7. Is chimpanzee tracking included in the eight-day safari?
Yes. The itinerary includes one standard chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe National Park, with the applicable activity permit arranged as part of the proposed package. Park entrance fees and scheduled guiding services are also included according to the final confirmed quotation.
8. What is the minimum age for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking?
The minimum age for mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda is 15 years. Nyungwe chimpanzee tracking also has a minimum age requirement of 15 years. Families travelling with younger children should arrange appropriate alternative activities and supervision during the trekking experiences.
9. Can I see all the Big Five animals in Akagera National Park?
Akagera National Park supports lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses, making it Rwanda’s principal Big Five destination. However, wildlife moves freely throughout the park, so sightings of all five animals during a single safari cannot be guaranteed. An experienced guide will help identify suitable wildlife-viewing areas.
10. Are rhinoceroses found in Akagera National Park?
Yes. Rhinoceroses have been reintroduced to Akagera as part of the park’s wildlife restoration and conservation programmes. Travellers may encounter rhinos during guided game drives, although sightings depend on animal movements, road access and natural conditions.
11. Is the Lake Ihema boat cruise included?
Yes. The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour includes a scheduled Lake Ihema boat cruise in Akagera National Park. Visitors may observe hippos, Nile crocodiles, waterbirds and other wildlife along the shoreline. The boat excursion is subject to available departures and the park’s operational arrangements.
12. Can I do the Nyungwe canopy walk after chimpanzee tracking?
It may be possible to enjoy the canopy walkway after chimpanzee tracking if the morning trek finishes sufficiently early and an appropriate afternoon activity slot is available. Because chimpanzees move freely and tracking duration cannot be guaranteed, the canopy walk is offered as an optional experience rather than a confirmed same-day activity.
13. How many nights are included in this safari?
The package includes seven nights of accommodation: one night at Kigali Serena Hotel, two nights at Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, two nights at Sambora Kinigi and two nights at Ruzizi Tented Lodge. Alternative accommodation can be arranged according to budget and availability.
14. Is this Rwanda safari suitable for families?
Yes. Families with teenagers who meet the trekking age requirements can enjoy the complete primate and wildlife itinerary. Younger children may participate in suitable sightseeing and game-drive activities, but alternative arrangements are required during activities for which they do not meet the minimum age. Family accommodation and private vehicle arrangements can be customised.
15. What is the best time to visit Rwanda for gorillas, chimpanzees and Big Five wildlife?
The relatively dry months of June to September and December to February are popular for trekking and wildlife safaris. However, Rwanda can be visited throughout the year, with wetter months offering green landscapes and beautiful scenery. The best travel period depends on individual preferences and permit availability.
16. How much driving is involved in this eight-day Rwanda safari?
The itinerary includes several substantial transfers, particularly from Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park and from Volcanoes to Akagera via Kigali. These days are planned primarily for travel, allowing sufficient time for road conditions, scenic stops and lodge check-in. Private transportation makes the journey more flexible and comfortable.
17. Is the safari operated privately?
Yes. Nextgen Safaris recommends operating the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour as a private safari. Travellers have their own safari vehicle and experienced driver-guide for road transfers and scheduled game drives. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking remain organised activities conducted under official park regulations.
18. Can I upgrade the safari accommodation?
Absolutely. Accommodation can be upgraded according to preferred comfort level, travel dates and budget. Travellers interested in luxury Rwanda experiences may request exclusive lodges near Volcanoes National Park, premium Nyungwe accommodation and alternative luxury safari properties in Akagera. All changes remain subject to availability.
19. Can the itinerary be customised to include golden monkeys or Lake Kivu?
Yes. Travellers can customise the safari to include golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park or additional relaxation beside Lake Kivu. Such additions may require extra nights or adjustments to the existing activities to maintain realistic driving distances and a comfortable schedule.
20. How do I book the 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour?
Booking begins by sharing your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, accommodation preferences and any additional activities you would like included. Nextgen Safaris will prepare a personalised quotation and coordinate the necessary permits, lodges and safari arrangements. Our standard booking terms require a 50% deposit upon confirmation, with the remaining balance due 20 days before arrival, subject to the confirmed booking agreement.
Book Your 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour With Nextgen Safaris
Discover Rwanda’s remarkable natural diversity through an unforgettable journey combining endangered mountain gorillas, wild chimpanzees and Africa’s famous Big Five. The 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour takes you from the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe and the magnificent Virunga Mountains to the beautiful savannah wilderness of Akagera National Park.
Whether you are planning a private wildlife adventure, a romantic holiday, a photography safari or a family journey with eligible teenagers, Nextgen Safaris can customise your itinerary according to your preferred dates, accommodation category and travel interests.
Book Your 8 Days Rwanda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Contact Nextgen Safaris to receive a personalised quotation, confirm trekking permit availability and begin planning your remarkable Rwanda adventure.
