HIGHLIGHTS OF
RWANDA
Overview
Known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills”, Rwanda supports impressive diversity and endemism which is conserved by its national parks, including Volcanoes and Akagera national parks. This luxury Rwanda gorilla safari itinerary encompasses bucket list gorilla trekking in the legendary Virunga Mountains to the north of the country and exploring the “little piece of heaven ” that is the savannah and wetland wonderland of Akagera in the country’s northeast.
KIGALI
Rwanda’s capital and biggest city stretches across undulating lush hills surrounded by towering mountains, the largest of which is Mount Kigali, rising 1850 metres above sea level. Kigali is the country’s financial, commercial and cultural hub, served by an international airport and featuring a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants and points of interest, including the Kigali Genocide Centre, an atmospheric market and numerous craft shops. With its interesting architecture, busy streets, meandering boulevards, and green hillsides, Kigali is said to be one of the most attractive cities in Africa and is definitely worth a visit.
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Bordering Tanzania in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last refuge for savannah-adapted species in the country. Stretching across a vast expanse of low-lying mountains and savannah plains, the park takes in the rolling highlands woodlands, swamp-fringed lakes, and wetlands of the Kagera River along the way. Crocodiles and hippos wallow in the park’s watery basins, predators prowl through its acacia groves, and elephant, zebra, giraffe, buffalo and other animals roam across its grassy plains. Bursting with a rich biodiversity, the park features a variety of rare species, as well as a plentitude of mammals and hundreds of bird species.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park is best known as a sanctuary for the region’s rare mountain gorillas. Visitors flock here to experience a face to face encounter with these intriguing creatures. The park is set high on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Highly regulated treks through the reserve allow visitors to spend an hour at a time with these incredible primates in their natural habitat. While the gorilla’s are without a doubt the main drawcard, visitors can also look forward to exploring a network of scenic hiking trails, visiting the tomb of the world-famous Dian Fossey and the Karisoke Research Centre, and enjoying a beautiful day hike to the crater lake on Mount Bisoke.
2 NIGHTS
THE RETREAT BY HEAVEN
KIGALI
Town & Country and The New York Times called The Retreat in Rwanda one of the top new hotels in the world in 2019. The American owners of Heaven Restaurant created The Retreat, an 11-room luxury boutique hotel located on a tree-lined street steps from Kigali City Center and 20 minutes from the airport. Here we will stay two nights in a Luxury Pool Villa.
3 NIGHTS
MAGASHI
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Magashi Camp is situated in the productive and phenomenally diverse north-eastern corner of Akagera National Park, overlooking scenic Lake Rwanyakazinga. Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera also boasts a healthy population of lion which were introduced by African Parks in 2015 after a 20-year absence; black rhino were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard.
3 NIGHTS
BISATE LODGE
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bisate Lodge is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone and has dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes Bisoke and Karisimbi rearing up through the Afro-alpine forests of nearby Volcanoes National Park. Six luxurious en-suite villas maximise comfort and views while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of rural Rwanda. Each guest contributes to Bisate’s biodiversity conservation and local community projects – making a far-reaching impact on an iconic Critically Endangered species: the mountain gorilla.
KIGALI
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Located just outside of Kigali City Centre in the Gasabo district, Kigali Genocide Memorial & Museum was created by a joint partnership of the Kigali City Council and the UK-based Aegis Trust. The centre is an extremely moving, challenging, educational and ultimately inspiring as well as a great place to understand the cause, tragedy and successful rebuilding post-genocide.
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
ALL INCLUDED ACTIVITIES AT MAGASHI
Morning Game Drive
Explore the area in an open 4×4 vehicle with each vehicle able to accommodate a maximum of seven guests, allowing each individual an outside seat.
Boating
Magashi offers boating in eight-seater swamp cruisers. This is an excellent way to view the water birds and many other aquatic animals seen around Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Birding
Akagera is renowned as one of the best birding areas in the world with more than 500 species recorded at the park.
Guided walks
Year-round walking safaris are offered in limited areas, weather permitting.
Fishing
Fishing on Lake Rwanyakazinga is available on a catch-and-release basis all year round. Magashi Camp has a small stock of basic rods and reels, however, do note no netting is allowed.
Night game drives
Magashi is in the only private access area in Akagera so exclusive night game drives in open 4×4 vehicles are offered.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes National Park offers visitors the unique opportunity of discovering the 10 families of gorillas that live within the national park. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee before the trek starts and will be separated into groups of 8 depending on their physical abilities. Each group is guided by a guide and two scouts who are well trained in emergency situations. The amount of time set aside per trek is different depending on where the gorilla family is situated. Some trips may take as little as half an hour and some taking the better part of the day.
Golden monkeys trekking
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers Golden monkeys trekking. This unique experience allows guests in groups of up to eight to look for and discover golden monkeys within their natural habitat.
The monkeys are incredibly active and enjoy showing off for tourists and researchers that they encounter daily. The monkeys can be found closer to the base of the volcano and enjoy eating the bamboo vegetation in the area.
Elephant Encounter
The Elephant Encounter affords guests the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa, in a pristine wilderness environment overflowing with raw natural beauty. Guests spend time and connect with elephants in the most positive and natural way possible.
National Park tour and Dian Fossey Tomb
Volcano National Park Dian Fossey Tomb Tour is located in Rwanda, Africa. The historic location was the home and research facility of primatologist Dian Fossey. Visitors can trek through the forest to reach the location, taking in the spectacular views. The trekking tour is about 1.5 hours long and visitors will see wildlife such as birds, forest hogs, forest elephants and a variety of primates.
PREMIER AFRICA HOST (OPTIONAL)
On request, a Premier Africa host can accompany you on this journey assisting with every arrangement as we move from one destination to the next. Available to you 24/7 and there to accommodate your interests and special requests.
DESTINATION GUIDES
During your time in Kigali and Bisate, guests will be accompanied by a private guide who share their extensive knowledge of the incredible destinations you will be visiting.
PRIVATE GUIDES & SAFARI RANGERS
Volcanoes National Park Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking:
Each group is guided by a guide and two scouts who are well trained in emergency situations.
Safari Game Drives at Magashi:
Highly trained and experienced rangers ensure a world class safari experience.
DEDICATED TRAVEL PLANNER
Our attention to detail and meticulous planning ensures a seemless travel experience. A dedicated travel designer is assigned to each of our guests to identify your interests, needs and personal preferences too. With our extensive knowledge of destinations, travel routes and the relationships we have in place with venues, we are able to build an itinerary around your desires.
INCLUDES
ACCOMMODATION
2 night at The Retreat by Heaven in Kigali in a luxury pool villa
3 nights at Magashi Camp in the Akagera National Park
3 nights at Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park
MEALS
Kigali: All Breakfasts & lunches, 2 hosted dinners including house wines and beverages
Magashi: All meals and local drinks
Bisate: All meals and local drinks
TRANSFERS
Private transfer from Kigali airport to The Retreat by Heaven.
Private transfer from Kigali to Magashi.
Helicopter transfer from Magashi to Bisate Lodge.
4 days vehicle and driver while at Bisate and return by road to Kigali.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Kigali: City tour of Kigali and visit to the Genocide Memorial
Magashi: Twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, conservation levies
Bisate: Lodge activities as listed in the itinerary
Gorilla trakking including permit
Golden Monkey trakking including permit
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Premier Africa traveling hosts and guides taking care of every detail along the way
Premier Africa pre and post trip planning and travel services
VIP meet & assist upon arrival and departure at Kigali International Airport
Emergency evacuation insurance
All luggage movement and assistance
Personalized travel itinerary
Premier Africa safari duffel bag
Premier Africa 5-star travel service and assistance throughout
EXCLUDES
International flights
Any optional activities & entrance fees
Visas and Passports
Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Airport and departure taxes
Premium imported brand drinks and champagne
Gratuities
Curio purchases and any other items of a personal nature
Duration
9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS
Destinations
2 NIGHTS IN KIGALI
3 NIGHTS AT AKAGERA
3 NIGHTS AT VOLCANOES
Availability
LIMITED TO 6 COUPLES
Pricing from
US$ 15,900
per person sharing
Speak to our travel designers
We can assist with your reservation, flights, travel insurance and advice
OVERVIEW
Known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills”, Rwanda supports impressive diversity and endemism which is conserved by its national parks, including Volcanoes and Akagera national parks. This luxury Rwanda gorilla safari itinerary encompasses bucket list gorilla trekking in the legendary Virunga Mountains to the north of the country and exploring the “little piece of heaven ” that is the savannah and wetland wonderland of Akagera in the country’s northeast.
DESTINATIONS
KIGALI
Rwanda’s capital and biggest city stretches across undulating lush hills surrounded by towering mountains, the largest of which is Mount Kigali, rising 1850 metres above sea level. Kigali is the country’s financial, commercial and cultural hub, served by an international airport and featuring a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants and points of interest, including the Kigali Genocide Centre, an atmospheric market and numerous craft shops. With its interesting architecture, busy streets, meandering boulevards, and green hillsides, Kigali is said to be one of the most attractive cities in Africa and is definitely worth a visit.
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Bordering Tanzania in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last refuge for savannah-adapted species in the country. Stretching across a vast expanse of low-lying mountains and savannah plains, the park takes in the rolling highlands woodlands, swamp-fringed lakes, and wetlands of the Kagera River along the way. Crocodiles and hippos wallow in the park’s watery basins, predators prowl through its acacia groves, and elephant, zebra, giraffe, buffalo and other animals roam across its grassy plains. Bursting with a rich biodiversity, the park features a variety of rare species, as well as a plentitude of mammals and hundreds of bird species.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park is best known as a sanctuary for the region’s rare mountain gorillas. Visitors flock here to experience a face-to-face encounter with these intriguing creatures. The park is set high on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Highly regulated treks through the reserve allow visitors to spend an hour at a time with these incredible primates in their natural habitat. While the gorillas are without a doubt the main drawcard, visitors can also look forward to exploring a network of scenic hiking trails, visiting the tomb of the world-famous Dian Fossey and the Karisoke Research Centre, and enjoying a beautiful day hike to the crater Lake on Mount Bisoke.
ACCOMMODATION
2 NIGHT
THE RETREAT BY HEAVEN
KIGALI
Town & Country and The New York Times call The Retreat in Rwanda one of the top new hotels in the world in 2019. The American owners of Heaven Restaurant created The Retreat, an 11-room luxury boutique hotel located on a tree-lined street steps from Kigali City Center and 20 minutes from the airport.
3 NIGHTS
MAGASHI
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
Magashi Camp is situated in the productive and phenomenally diverse north-eastern corner of Akagera National Park, overlooking scenic Lake Rwanyakazinga. Akagera comprises some of the most scenic savannah in East Africa – open plains, woodlands, lakes, swamp, and grassy low mountains – and is home to one of Africa’s highest hippo densities, large crocodiles as well as the rare sitatunga and more than 520 bird species. Teeming with plains game, Akagera also boasts a healthy population of lion which were introduced by African Parks in 2015 after a 20-year absence; black rhino were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard.
3 NIGHTS
BISATE LODGE
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Bisate Lodge is located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone and has dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes Bisoke and Karisimbi rearing up through the Afro-alpine forests of nearby Volcanoes National Park. Six luxurious en-suite villas maximise comfort and views while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of rural Rwanda. Each guest contributes to Bisate’s biodiversity conservation and local community projects – making a far-reaching impact on an iconic Critically Endangered species: the mountain gorilla.
ACTIVITIES
KIGALI
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Located just outside of Kigali City Centre in the Gasabo district, Kigali Genocide Memorial & Museum was created by a joint partnership of the Kigali City Council and the UK-based Aegis Trust. The centre is an extremely moving, challenging, educational and ultimately inspiring as well as a great place to understand the cause, tragedy and successful rebuilding post-genocide.
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
ALL INCLUDED ACTIVITIES AT MAGASHI
Morning Game Drive
Explore the area in an open 4×4 vehicle with each vehicle able to accommodate a maximum of seven guests, allowing each individual an outside seat.
Boating
Magashi offers boating in eight-seater swamp cruisers. This is an excellent way to view the water birds and many other aquatic animals seen around Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Birding
Akagera is renowned as one of the best birding areas in the world with more than 500 species recorded at the park.
Guided walks
Year-round walking safaris are offered in limited areas, weather permitting.
Fishing
Fishing on Lake Rwanyakazinga is available on a catch-and-release basis all year round. Magashi Camp has a small stock of basic rods and reels, however, do note no netting is allowed.
Night game drives
Magashi is in the only private access area in Akagera so exclusive night game drives in open 4×4 vehicles are offered.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking in the Volcanoes National Park offers visitors the unique opportunity of discovering the 10 families of gorillas that live within the national park. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee before the trek starts and will be separated into groups of 8 depending on their physical abilities. Each group is guided by a guide and two scouts who are well trained in emergency situations. The amount of time set aside per trek is different depending on where the gorilla family is situated. Some trips may take as little as half an hour and some taking the better part of the day.
Golden monkeys trekking
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers Golden monkeys trekking. This unique experience allows guests in groups of up to eight to look for and discover golden monkeys within their natural habitat.
The monkeys are incredibly active and enjoy showing off for tourists and researchers that they encounter daily. The monkeys can be found closer to the base of the volcano and enjoy eating the bamboo vegetation in the area.
Elephant Encounter
The Elephant Encounter affords guests the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa, in a pristine wilderness environment overflowing with raw natural beauty. Guests spend time and connect with elephants in the most positive and natural way possible.
National Park tour and Dian Fossey Tomb
Volcano National Park Dian Fossey Tomb Tour is located in Rwanda, Africa. The historic location was the home and research facility of primatologist Dian Fossey. Visitors can trek through the forest to reach the location, taking in the spectacular views. The trekking tour is about 1.5 hours long and visitors will see wildlife such as birds, forest hogs, forest elephants and a variety of primates.
HOSTS & GUIDES
PREMIER AFRICA HOST (OPTIONAL)
On request, a Premier Africa host can accompany you on this journey assisting with every arrangement as we move from one destination to the next. Available to you 24/7 and there to accommodate your interests and special requests.
DESTINATION GUIDES
During your time in Kigali and Bisate, guests will be accompanied by a private guide who share their extensive knowledge of the incredible destinations you will be visiting.
PRIVATE GUIDES & SAFARI RANGERS
Volcanoes National Park Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking:
Each group is guided by a guide and two scouts who are well trained in emergency situations.
Safari Game Drives at Magashi:
Highly trained and experienced rangers ensure a world class safari experience.
DEDICATED TRAVEL PLANNER
Our attention to detail and meticulous planning ensures a seemless travel experience. A dedicated travel designer is assigned to each of our guests to identify your interests, needs and personal preferences too. With our extensive knowledge of destinations, travel routes and the relationships we have in place with venues, we are able to build an itinerary around your desires.
INCLUDES
ACCOMMODATION
2 nights at The Retreat by Heaven in Kigali
3 nights at Magashi Camp in the Akagera National Park
3 nights at Bisate Lodge, Volancanoes National Park
MEALS
Kigali: All Breakfasts & lunches, 2 hosted dinners including house wines and beverages
Magashi: All meals and local drinks
Bisate: All meals and local drinks
TRANSFERS
Private transfer from Kigali airport to The Retreat by Heaven.
Private transfer from Kigali to Magashi.
Helicopter transfer from Magashi to Bisate Lodge.
4 days vehicle and driver while at Bisate and return by road to Kigali.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Kigali: City tour of Kigali and visit to the Genocide Memorial
Magashi: Twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, conservation levies
Bisate: Lodge activities as listed in the itinerary
Gorilla trakking including permit
Golden Monkey trakking including permit
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Premier Africa traveling hosts and guides taking care of every detail along the way
Premier Africa pre and post trip planning and travel services
VIP meet & assist upon arrival and departure at Kigali International Airport
Emergency evacuation insurance
All luggage movement and assistance
Personalized travel itinerary
Premier Africa safari duffel bag
Premier Africa 5-star travel service and assistance throughout
EXCLUDES
International flights
Any optional activities & entrance fees
Visas and Passports
Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Airport and departure taxes
Premium imported brand drinks and champagne
Gratuities
Curio purchases and any other items of a personal nature
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
2 NIGHT
KIGALI
THE RETREAT BY HEAVEN
Day 1
VIP Meet and greet on arrival at Kigali International Airport.
Private transfer to The Retreat by Heaven.
Check in assistance at The Retreat by Heaven for your 2-nights stay.
Day 2
Breakfast at The Retreat by Heaven.
Private tour of Kigali including the Genocide memorial.
Lunch.
Dinner at leisure.
3 NIGHTS
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK
MAGASHI
Day 3
Breakfast at The Retreat by Heaven.
Check-out assistance.
Travel to Akagera National Park by road.
Check-in assistance at Magashi Camp.
Camp activities.
Dinner at Magashi Camp.
Day 4 - 5
Breakfast at Magashi Camp.
Morning game drive.
Camp activities including – Bird watching, boating and guided walks.
Lunch.
Evening game drive before returning to the camp in the early evening for dinner.
3 NIGHTS
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
BISATE LODGE
Day 6
Breakfast at Magashi Camp.
Check-out assistance.
Helicopter transfer to Bisate Camp.
Check-in assistance at Bisate Camp.
Lunch at Bisate Camp.
Camp activities.
Dinner at Bisate Camp.
Day 7 - 8
Breakfast at Bisate Lodge.
Gorilla trekking experience.
Golden Monkey trekking experience.
On-site lodge activities.
Lodge activities off property – visits to Bisate reforestation site, guided walks of the surrounding communities.
Sundowner drinks.
Dinner at Bisate Lodge.
Day 9
Breakfast at Bisate Lodge.
Check-out assistance.
Transfer by road to Kigali International Airport.
Departure assistance at Kigali International Airport.
DAY-BY-DAY JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
2 NIGHTS
THE RETREAT BY HEAVEN
Day 1
VIP Meet and greet on arrival at Kigali International Airport.
Private transfer from airport to hotel.
Check in assistance at The Retreat by Heaven for your overnight stay.
Day 2
Breakfast at The Retreat by Heaven.
Private tour of Kigali including the Genocide memorial.
Lunch.
Dinner at leisure.
3 NIGHT
MAGASHI
Day 3
Breakfast at The Retreat by Heaven.
Check-out assistance.
Travel to Akagera National Park by road.
Check-in assistance at Magashi Camp.
Camp activities.
Dinner at Magashi Camp.
Day 4 - 5
Breakfast at Magashi Camp.
Morning game drive.
Camp activities including – Bird watching, boating and guided walks.
Lunch.
Evening game drive before returning to the camp in the early evening for dinner.
3 NIGHTS
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Day 6
Breakfast at Magashi Camp.
Check-out assistance.
Helicopter transfer to Bisate Camp.
Check-in assistance at Bisate Camp.
Lunch at Bisate Camp.
Camp activities.
Dinner at Bisate Camp.
Day 7 - 8
Breakfast at Bisate Lodge.
Gorilla trekking experience.
Golden Monkey trekking experience.
On-site lodge activities.
Lodge activities off property – visits to Bisate reforestation site, guided walks of the surrounding communities.
Sundowner drinks.
Dinner at Bisate Lodge.
Day 9
Breakfast at Bisate Lodge.
Check-out assistance.
Transfer by road to Kigali International Airport.
Departure assistance at Kigali International Airport.
MEDIA
View the day-by-day itinerary, frequently asked questions or get in touch with our travel designers
ASSISTANCE
MEDIA
View the day-by-day itinerary, frequently asked questions or get in touch with our travel designers
