5 Days Rwanda Golden monkeys and Big 5 Safari

5 Days Rwanda Golden monkeys and Big 5 Safari is journey to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll have the incredible opportunity to track Golden monkeys. Experience the thrill of a boat cruise on the picturesque Lake Ihema and witness the majestic Big 5 along with the elusive Big Cats at Akagera National Park. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda at the Iby’lwacu Cultural Village, and be captivated by the beauty of the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Additionally, pay your respects at the poignant genocide memorial site in Kigali. This tour promises a truly diverse and meaningful exploration of Rwanda’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks.

• 01

  Day 1: Journey from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

  Your adventure begins at 8:30 am when our guide/driver picks you up from your Kigali hotel. First, you’ll visit the genocide memorial site for a meaningful experience. Then, enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive to Musanze, Rwanda’s second-largest town, surrounded by the impressive Virunga volcanic mountains. Explore the beautiful Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, known for birdwatching. The Rugezi swamp is a peaceful spot and a recognized birding area. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Iby’lwacu cultural village, where you can learn about Rwandan culture.

  Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner.

  Accommodation: La Palme Hotel (Budget) | Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-Range)

• 02

  Day 2: Golden Monkey Trek and Local Banana Beer Crafting

  Enjoy a hearty breakfast and head to Volcanoes National Park for a special encounter with endangered golden monkeys. The trek, lasting 1-2 hours, promises an accessible wildlife experience. Later, visit the Red Rocks Intercultural Exchange Center to learn about crafting banana-based local beer from brew masters. Dive into the brewing process, extract banana juice, and witness its transformation into alcohol. Explore cultural activities like basket weaving, supporting local families. Return to The Garden Place Hotel for a satisfying dinner and overnight stay.

  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

  Accommodation: Same as Day 1

• 03

  Day 3: Transition to Akagera National Park – Lake Ihema Boat Excursion

  Following breakfast, your journey leads from Volcanoes National Park to Akagera National Park, with a captivating stop in Kigali. Upon arrival at the park, settle into your accommodation before indulging in a delightful lunch. The highlight of the day awaits with a captivating boat excursion on Lake Ihema, providing opportunities to observe the graceful presence of hippos and crocodiles in their aquatic habitat.

  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  Accommodation: Rutete Eco Lodge (Budget) | Akagera Game Lodge (Mid-Range)

• 04

  Day 4: Immersive Game Drives in Akagera National Park

  Embrace an early morning start with a hearty breakfast, preparing you for an immersive day of game drives in an open-roofed vehicle. The expansive landscapes of Akagera National Park offer an array of wildlife sightings, including elephants, buffalos, lions, hippos, Masai giraffes, impalas, baboons, and an array of other captivating species. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before embarking on another exhilarating game drive in the afternoon. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a delectable dinner.

  Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  Accommodation: Same as Day 3

• 05

  Day 5: Homeward Bound – Akagera National Park to Kigali

  Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before embarking on a final morning game drive, capturing any last wildlife encounters. Subsequently, return to Kigali, where you will be comfortably settled at your lodge or, if required, transported to the airport for your onward journey.

  Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

  Accommodation: None unless requested