Abundant Wildlife & Waterscapes
An abundant wildlife oasis and birder's paradise. This inland delta is a slice of Eden.
From USD 20,180 per person

Kigali, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Parc National des Volcans, Akagera National Park
destinations
Kigali, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Parc National des Volcans, Akagera National Park
This itinerary offers the ultimate way to explore Rwanda’s remarkable diversity. Visit chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Forest and track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park for an adventure unlike any other. End in Akagera National Park, where exclusivity and powerful conservation success stories take centre stage, and where you can enjoy guided game drives and a scenic boat safari on Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Minnie Kent
Travel Designer

Hemingways Retreat Kigali

Nyungwe Tea Forest Resort

Chimpanzee Trekking

Canopy Walk

Wilderness Bisate

Gorilla Trekking

Wilderness Magashi

Exploring Akagera National Park
Accommodation
| Days | Camps | Experiences |
|---|---|---|
| DAYS 1 - 21 - 2 | Kigali, Rwanda | |
| DAYS 2 - 42 - 4 | Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda | |
| DAYS 4 - 64 - 6 | Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda | |
| DAYS 6 - 86 - 8 | Akagera National Park, Rwanda |
Day 1
Kigali International AirportHemingways Retreat Kigali
Road • 00:30h
You will be met by a Wilderness Rwanda representative and transferred from Kigali International Airport to Hemingways Retreat Kigali by private vehicle.








Hemingways Retreat sits in a residential neighbourhood in Kigali, a boutique property that brings together an eco-conscious design ethos with genuine urban access. The city's markets, art galleries and the Kigali Genocide Memorial are within easy reach; the retreat's position in the hills gives it a quieter feel while keeping the centre close. The property runs on solar power and is designed around its gardens, with rooms opening to private decks, outdoor rain showers and saltwater plunge pools set among the tropical plants. A spa and fitness centre sit within the grounds, and a Fusion restaurant draws on Italian, Mauritian and Moroccan influences alongside local Rwandan produce, largely sourced from an onsite organic garden. Kigali rewards slow exploration; and the retreat’s location fits this pace of life. Neighbourhood walking tours, a visit to the Nyamirambo Women's Centre and horseback riding on Mount Kigali offer different ways into the city, while Volcanoes National Park is accessible as a day trip for gorilla trekking. Insider's Tip: The Nyamirambo Women's Centre visit is one of the most rewarding ways to spend a morning in Kigali, combining a neighbourhood walk with a direct look at the work the centre does within the community.
1 night • Luxury Pool Villa x 1
Day 2
Hemingways Retreat KigaliKigali International Airport
Road • 00:30h
You will be met by a Wilderness Rwanda representative and transferred from Hemingways Retreat Kigali to Kigali International Airport by private vehicle.
Kigali International AirportOne&Only Nyungwe House
Road • 05:00h
You will be met by a Wilderness Rwanda representative and transferred from Kigali International Airport to One&Only Nyungwe House by private vehicle.








The green rows of the Gisakura Tea Estate run right up to the edge of Nyungwe National Park, where one of Africa’s oldest mountain rainforests begins. Nyungwe Tea Forest Resort sits at altitude between the two, within a working tea plantation that has shaped this landscape for generations, and in one of the continent’s most biodiverse ecosystems. The Two-Bedroom Canopy Villa has room for four, with two ensuite bedrooms, a wood-burning stove for cool highland evenings, and a balcony where the forest reaches the rail. The Canopy Treehouse is built for two, held above the rainforest with a deep soaking tub and a treetop balcony. The Dining Room looks over the tea fields, and daily menus draw on the produce, herbs, and flavours of Rwanda. A forest-view spa offers revitalising treatments, outdoor fitness sessions make use of the same landscape. Guided bird-watching tours track colourful endemic species as they flit between the trees, and archery lets you try the bow with the resort’s Experience Hosts. Insider’s Tip: Book the archery session on the high ground above the tea fields; the Experience Hosts teach the weight and release of the bow, and the forest and hills stretch out below as you shoot.
2 nights • Double Queen Canopy Treehouse x 1
Chimpanzee Trekking






Wander through the enchanting Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests—on a once in a lifetime chimpanzee trekking excursion. Your adventure begins with a pre-dawn briefing at Park Headquarters. Rise early, savour a hearty breakfast, and embark on a thrilling journey to track the magical creatures. Feel your adrenaline pumping as you traverse the mountainous terrain. The forest is alive with wildlife, from blue monkeys to red-tailed monkeys, so keep your eyes peeled for the diverse creatures you'll encounter along the way. Expert trackers scout ahead, relaying the chimps' location to your guide. The trek can last up to six hours, as the creatures roam freely through the jungle, promising a day of suspense and excitement. Upon locating the chimps, spend an unforgettable hour observing their human-like behaviours—watch them groom, play, and interact. Be sure to capture these intimate moments with your camera before trekking back through the lush forest. Your driver will be ready to whisk you back to your lodge or next adventure, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.
Colobus Monkey Trekking
Venture deep into Nyungwe Forest, home to Africa's largest troops of Rwenzori black-and-white colobus monkeys. These striking primates, with their flowing white fur and agile leaps, typically remain hidden in the treetops—but here, sightings are almost guaranteed. This rare opportunity lets you step into their world, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. Your trek begins with a scenic drive through rolling tea plantations before reaching a secluded forest clearing. Accompanied by an expert guide and park ranger, you'll navigate gentle trails, keeping an eye out for the playful colobus monkeys as they forage and leap between branches. Once spotted, you'll have up to an hour to observe them in their natural habitat. The trek is moderate in difficulty, suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level. Don't forget binoculars and a camera—these photogenic primates and the misty rainforest backdrop make for unforgettable moments. The permit grants entry for one-day, with a minimum of two guests per booking.
Canopy Walk




Soar above the lush montane rainforest of Nyungwe National Park on the thrilling Nyungwe Canopy Walk. This 160-metre-long, 70-metre-high suspension bridge offers an unparalleled bird's-eye view of the forest's vibrant treetops. Voted the Best Canopy Walkway globally by Lonely Planet in 2019, this adventure showcases Nyungwe's remarkable biodiversity, including 13 primate species, and a dazzling array of birds and butterflies. Accessible via guided tours along the Igishigishigi Trail or while hiking the Imbaraga or Umuyove Trails, this sky-high safari is rich with wildlife encounters. Embark on an early morning walk for the best chance to witness the forest's most active inhabitants. Experience the magic and wonder of Nyungwe National Park from a breathtaking perspective, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your adventure through the treetops.
Day 4
One&Only Nyungwe HouseWilderness Bisate
Flight • 00:45h
Private helicopter transfer from One&Only Nyungwe House to Wilderness Bisate.








Wilderness Bisate 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 Forest 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 endangered species: the mountain gorilla. Aside from tracking one of the several habituated gorilla groups, activities include visiting nearby natural attractions, hiking to Dian Fossey’s burial site, and observing the Park’s group of endangered endemic golden monkey. Walks on Bisate’s property offer birding and participation in the reforestation programme. Insider's Tip: Wilderness Bisate is within easy driving distance of Volcanoes National Park Headquarters, from where gorilla treks depart daily.
2 nights • Forest Villa x 1
Gorilla Trekking
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Head out on an unforgettable journey through East Africa's stunning landscapes to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. Guided by expert trackers, explore the misty mountains and lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, home to these rare giants. As you search for the gorillas, you will be enthralled by the rich mosaic of the montane ecosystems, which embrace a diverse range of evergreen and bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath. The park's 200 species of colorful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey will keep you company as you track the mountain gorilla through the forest. Spotting the gorillas may take a few hours or a full day, but the moment you find them, you'll have an hour to observe their fascinating behavior up close. Then, return to camp with cherished memories and new friends, both human and gorilla alike.
Day 6
Wilderness BisateWilderness Magashi
Road • 05:00h
You will be driven by private transfer from Wilderness Chikwenya to Wilderness Little Makalolo.





Wilderness Magashi 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 boasting an impressive 520 species of birds. Teeming with plains game, Akagera now 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, and white rhino in 2021. Wilderness Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbours a good density of leopard. Insider's Tip: Our core Purpose in Akagera is to help conserve Rwanda’s last protected savannah ecosystem, and species like black rhino and the rare and elusive shoebill; furthermore, our presence here will contribute towards enabling it to become economically self-sufficient for the first time.
2 nights • Tented Room x 1
Exploring Akagera National Park
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Every day at Akagera National Park offers the chance to explore some of East Africa's most breathtaking landscapes, from expansive savannah and lush woodland to tranquil lakes and grassy rolling hills. Encounter Africa's wildlife up close, including the Big Five, high hippo densities and impressive crocodiles. Enjoy twice daily game drives through Akagera's diverse terrain, keeping a keen eye out for majestic lions and cantankerous black rhinos, which thrive in this exclusive-use area. And as the sun sets, head out on a night drive to witness the park's nocturnal wonders come to life. For a more intimate experience, join guided walking safaris and uncover the hidden treasures of Akagera, or glide across the serene lake on a boating safari, keeping an eye out for elephants or even a unique fishing leopard.
Day 8
Wilderness MagashiKigali International Airport
Road • 06:00h
You will be met by a Wilderness Rwanda representative and transferred from Wilderness Magashi to Kigali International Airport by private vehicle.
These experiences are just a glimpse of what’s possible. If you’d like to book this trip or shape a custom itinerary, we are here to help you plan your perfect safari.
GUEST EXPERIENCES
The hard work of our teams on the ground and the communities we work alongside has been recognised through numerous awards. And we couldn’t be prouder.
View all awards
Wilderness - Best Sustainability Community Partner

Wilderness Bisate Reserve - Best New Luxury Hotels

Wilderness Ruckomechi - Zimbabwe's Leading Safari Lodge

Wilderness DumaTau - #2 World Resorts