This is Rwanda’s complete circuit: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking and the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest, and a genuine Big Five safari in Akagera National Park — all three of the country’s major parks in one unhurried eight-day trip.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Kigali
Arrival and transfer to your hotel, evening at leisure.
Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
Short drive to Kinigi, evening trekking briefing.
Gorilla Trekking
Briefing, family assignment, the trek, one hour with the family.
As above
Transfer to Nyungwe Forest
A longer drive south through Rwanda’s terraced hills to Nyungwe, arriving in the afternoon.
Chimpanzee Tracking and Canopy Walk
Morning chimpanzee tracking through Nyungwe’s montane rainforest, afternoon on Africa’s highest canopy walkway, roughly 70 metres above the forest floor.
As above
Transfer to Akagera National Park
A long transfer across the country to Akagera in the east, arriving with time for an evening game drive.
Full Day Big Five Game Viewing
A full day for lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino, plus a boat trip on Lake Ihema.
As above
Return to Kigali, Departure
Drive back to Kigali, timed against your onward international flight.
Permits & Costs
| Gorilla trekking permit | $1,500 per person |
| Chimpanzee tracking permit (Nyungwe) | ~$100 per person |
| Akagera park entry & boat trip | Included in tour price |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers wanting to see everything Rwanda offers in one unhurried trip — gorillas, chimpanzees, and classic Big Five game viewing.
Tour Includes
- Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking permits
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Canopy walk, park fees & boat trip
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Rwanda’s Compact Geography in Practice
Even the longest transfers on this itinerary — crossing from the volcanic north to Nyungwe’s rainforest in the southwest, then east to Akagera’s savannah — stay well under a full day’s drive, a genuine advantage of Rwanda’s small size compared to covering equivalent ground in Uganda or Tanzania.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking boots for both primate treks, comfortable layered clothing for Akagera’s game drives, sun protection, and a light rain jacket.
Is 8 days enough to see all three parks properly?
Yes — each park gets at least one dedicated full day beyond the transfer itself, avoiding the rushed feeling a tighter version of this route might have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a lot of driving for 8 days?
Rwanda’s compact size keeps even the longest transfers here well under a full day, considerably shorter than the equivalent distances in Uganda or Tanzania.
Is Nyungwe’s chimpanzee tracking as good as Uganda’s Kibale?
Both are genuinely strong; Nyungwe’s higher elevation makes the trek somewhat more demanding, while its canopy walkway offers something Kibale doesn’t.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm permits and lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.