Combined Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Rwanda.

Introduction

A combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is one of the most exciting safaris in Africa. It gives you a chance to see Rwanda’s amazing wildlife and meet the famous mountain gorillas in their natural home. On this adventure, you will explore two of Rwanda’s most beautiful national parks — Akagera National Park for wildlife viewing and Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking. A combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda lets you enjoy game drives, stunning landscapes, and a close encounter with the gentle giants of the forest.

With Wagatil Safaris, this journey is well-planned and stress-free. Our expert guides ensure that every part of your safari is enjoyable, safe, and unforgettable. Whether you are a wildlife lover, a nature photographer, or an adventurer seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is perfect for you.

Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and through this combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, you will experience its beauty, culture, and wildlife in the best way possible.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – The Heart of Rwanda

Your safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital city. On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a professional guide from Wagatil Safaris. After a short briefing about your safari, you will check into your hotel and relax.

If time allows, you can take an optional city tour. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and craft centers to learn about Rwanda’s history and culture. Kigali’s friendly people and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most welcoming cities in Africa.

Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel in Kigali.

Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park – Rwanda’s Wildlife Paradise

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up for a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda near the border with Tanzania. The journey takes about two and a half hours, passing through beautiful hills, farmlands, and small villages.

When you arrive, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch with a view of the rolling savannah. In the afternoon, set out for your first game drive in Akagera National Park. This park is home to the Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes — along with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles.

Your experienced Wagatil Safaris guide will help you spot these animals and share interesting facts about them. The sunset over the savannah is magical, making for beautiful photographs and memories.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge in Akagera.

Accommodation options:

Luxury: Magashi Camp

Mid-range: Akagera Game Lodge

Budget: Dereva Hotel

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

Start your day early with a morning game drive when the animals are most active. You may spot lions hunting, elephants moving in herds, or antelopes grazing peacefully. The cool morning air and golden light create perfect conditions for wildlife photography.

After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and some rest. In the afternoon, go for a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, one of the park’s highlights. The lake is filled with hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.

This peaceful boat ride gives you a different perspective of the park and a chance to see animals along the shores. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Day 4: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Home of the Gorillas

After breakfast, say goodbye to Akagera and begin your drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern part of Rwanda. The journey takes about five hours but is filled with stunning views of green hills, tea plantations, and beautiful countryside.

Arrive in the town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri) in time for lunch and check in at your lodge. The park lies at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes, a chain of ancient volcanoes shared between Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the afternoon, you can relax at your lodge or visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will experience Rwanda’s traditional music, dance, and community life. It’s a great way to connect with local culture before your big trekking adventure.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Accommodation options:

Luxury: Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

This is the most exciting day of your combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters in Kinigi for a briefing. The park rangers will explain the rules of gorilla trekking and assign you to a specific gorilla family.

You will then begin your trek through the dense forest, guided by experienced trackers. The hike may take between one and six hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Along the way, enjoy the sounds of birds, fresh mountain air, and the thrill of being deep in the jungle.

When you finally meet the mountain gorillas, you will spend up to one unforgettable hour observing them. Watch as they feed, play, and care for their young. The experience of standing just a few meters away from these gentle giants is emotional and deeply rewarding.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. You can spend the evening reflecting on your incredible encounter or enjoying the peaceful mountain views.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking or Nature Walk and Return to Kigali

After breakfast, you can choose between a golden monkey trek or a nature walk around Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are beautiful and playful primates that live in the bamboo forests. Trekking them is shorter and easier than gorilla trekking, but just as enjoyable.

Alternatively, you can take a nature walk to visit the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, known for their beautiful scenery and birdlife.

Later, begin your drive back to Kigali with Wagatil Safaris, enjoying the scenic countryside views along the way. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport for your departure, marking the end of your combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda.

Why Choose Wagatil Safaris?

Wagatil Safaris is your trusted travel partner for unforgettable wildlife and gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda. Our professional team ensures that every detail of your safari is well-organized and comfortable. We believe that a safari should be both exciting and educational, which is why our guides share deep knowledge about Rwanda’s wildlife, culture, and conservation.

When you travel with Wagatil Safaris, you enjoy:

Experienced and friendly local guides

Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles

Quality accommodation and meals

Custom itineraries based on your preferences

Excellent customer service from start to finish

By booking with us, you also support local communities and conservation projects that protect Rwanda’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Best Time to visit

The best time for a combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are easier to walk, and the weather is pleasant for both game drives and trekking.

However, Rwanda’s parks are open all year, and trekking can also be enjoyed during the rainy season when the forests are greener and less crowded. Wagatil Safaris offers flexible tour dates to suit your schedule.

What to Pack

Here are some essential items to bring for your combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda:

Strong hiking boots

Long-sleeved shirts and trousers

Rain jacket or poncho

Garden gloves for trekking

insect repellent and sunscreen

Binoculars and camera

A small backpack and bottled water

Having the right gear ensures comfort and a great safari experience.

Conclusion

A combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda gives you the best of both worlds — thrilling wildlife encounters and unforgettable gorilla experiences. From the open savannahs of Akagera National Park to the misty volcanoes of Volcanoes National Park, every moment is filled with beauty and excitement.

With Wagatil Safaris, your safari is more than just a trip — it’s a journey of discovery, connection, and conservation. Our experienced team is dedicated to giving you the best experience possible while supporting Rwanda’s efforts to protect its precious wildlife.

Book your combined wildlife and gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda today with Wagatil Safaris and create memories that will stay with you forever.