Combining Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Akagera National Parks

By combining visits to Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Akagera National Parks, you embark on a journey that captures the full spectrum of Rwanda’s natural wonders. Each park offers a distinct experience: Akagera showcases classic African savannah wildlife, Volcanoes immerses you in the misty highlands with endangered mountain gorillas, and Nyungwe reveals an ancient rainforest teeming with primates. Together, they create a comprehensive adventure of game drives across open plains, intimate encounters with primates in dense forests, and awe-inspiring landscapes that range from serene lakes to towering volcanic peaks. Best of all, the short travel distances between parks make exploring Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems convenient and rewarding.

Akagera National Park: Rwanda’s Savannah Wilderness

Location and Landscape

Akagera National Park stretches across northeastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border. It is the country’s only savannah ecosystem, offering visitors a chance to experience classic East African plains wildlife without leaving Rwanda.

Wildlife Highlights

Akagera is home to the Big Five lions, leopards, rhinoceros, buffalo, and elephants making it a top wildlife destination. The park also hosts diverse antelope species, including impala, topi, bushbuck, and eland, as well as zebras, giraffes, and olive baboons roaming its grasslands. Hippos dominate the lakes, crocodiles bask along the shores, and birdwatchers enjoy spotting hundreds of species across wetland, savannah, and woodland habitats.

Activities in Akagera

• Game Drives: Expert guides take you through the park’s tracks, maximizing wildlife sightings, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.
• Boat Safaris: Lake Ihema offers spectacular boat excursions, bringing you close to hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, with stunning sunset views across the water.
• Birding Expeditions: Akagera attracts passionate birdwatchers with its rich avian diversity.
• Community Visits: Nearby villages welcome visitors eager to learn about traditional Rwandan culture and conservation efforts.

Accommodation Options

Lodging in Akagera caters to all preferences. Budget travelers may choose Akagera Transit Lodge or Karenge Bush Camp. Mid-range options include Mantis Akagera Game Lodge and Akagera Rhino Lodge. Luxury seekers can indulge at Magashi Bush Camp or Ruzizi Tented Lodge for a premium safari experience.

Volcanoes National Park: Home of Mountain Gorillas

Location and Setting

Nestled in the northwestern part of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park occupies the dramatic Virunga mountain range. Its misty, volcanic landscapes provide a sanctuary for critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Key Attractions and Activities

• Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Spend a life-changing hour observing gorilla families as they feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat.
• Golden Monkey Tracking: Explore bamboo forests to witness these playful, endangered primates up close.
• Mountain Hiking: Trek the volcanic peaks for breathtaking views across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Dian Fossey Grave Site: Hike to the legendary primatologist’s grave and pay tribute to her conservation legacy.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit local communities to experience traditional Rwandan dance, drumming ceremonies, and daily life practices.

Accommodation Options

Budget travelers can stay at Hotel Muhabura or Isange Paradise Resort. Mid-range options include Le Bambou Lodge, Da Vinci Lodge, and Mountain Gorilla View Lodge. Luxury properties such as One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, and Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offer exceptional, world-class experiences.

Nyungwe Forest National Park: Ancient Rainforest Paradise

Location and Character

Western Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park protects one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. This pristine montane ecosystem is home to exceptional primate populations and numerous endemic species.

Activities and Experiences

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Set out at dawn to follow habituated chimpanzee communities, hearing their distinctive pant-hoots echoing through the forest.
• Canopy Walkway: Walk high above the forest floor on a suspended bridge, enjoying unparalleled views of the lush rainforest.
• Colobus Monkey Tracking: Observe large troops of Angolan colobus monkeys in spectacular settings.
• Nature Walks: Choose from a variety of trails, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes.
• Tea Plantation Visits: Explore Rwanda’s scenic tea estates and learn about this vital industry.

Accommodation Options

Nyungwe offers a range of lodges and eco-lodges, including One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Lodge, Gisakura Guest House, and Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge.

Suggested 8-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Culture Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Akagera National Park

Arrive at Kigali International Airport and transfer 2.5 hours east to Akagera National Park. Along the way, enjoy rolling hills and charming rural villages. Check into your lodge overlooking the park’s wetlands and grasslands, preparing for the wildlife adventure ahead.

Day 2: Akagera Game Drives & Boat Safari

Start early with a morning game drive, spotting lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. In the afternoon, head to Lake Ihema for a sunset boat safari, gliding past hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant waterbirds.

Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park & Cultural Visit

Drive northwest to Volcanoes National Park. Stop at Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, where former poachers turned conservationists demonstrate traditional dance, drumming, and local customs.

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Hike through bamboo groves and dense forests to encounter a gorilla family. Spend a memorable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Day 5: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Nyungwe

Begin the day tracking golden monkeys in the bamboo forests. Later, journey south to Nyungwe Forest, passing Rwanda’s iconic “thousand hills” and picturesque tea plantations.

Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk

Embark on an early morning trek to observe chimpanzees in their rainforest home. In the afternoon, experience the canopy walkway for stunning aerial views of the forest ecosystem.

Day 7: Return to Kigali

Drive back to Kigali for a night in the capital. Explore the Genocide Memorial, local markets, craft cooperatives, and the city’s modern districts.

Day 8: Departure

Conclude your journey with a final glimpse of Rwanda’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and warm hospitality as you depart from Kigali.