Adventure and Relaxation in Rwanda
Experience the best of Rwanda on this 5-day safari that combines the thrill of mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with the serene beauty and relaxation of Lake Kivu. After the physical exertion of tracking gorillas through mountain forests, unwind on the shores of Rwanda's largest lake, enjoying water activities, scenic walks, and cultural experiences. This perfectly balanced itinerary offers both adventure and rejuvenation in Africa's cleanest and most beautiful country.
Safari Highlights:
- Gorilla Trekking: One gorilla trekking permit included per person
- Lake Kivu Relaxation: 2 nights on the shores of Rwanda's largest lake
- Boat Cruise: Scenic boat trip on Lake Kivu with island visits
- Golden Monkeys: Optional golden monkey tracking (extra cost)
- Coffee Plantation Tour: Visit a local coffee plantation and learn about Rwanda's famous coffee
- Cycling/Walking: Explore the lake shores by bicycle or on foot
- Cultural Experiences: Visit local communities and fishing villages
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of volcanoes and lake landscapes
Detailed Safari Itinerary
DAY 1: KIGALI TO VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Morning Arrival: Pick up from your Kigali hotel or Kigali International Airport.
City Orientation: Brief tour of Kigali including the Genocide Memorial (optional but recommended).
Scenic Drive: Journey northwest through Rwanda's famous rolling hills to Volcanoes National Park.
Lunch en route: Stop at a local restaurant with panoramic views of the countryside.
Arrival in Musanze: Reach the town of Musanze at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Lodge Check-in: Arrive at your comfortable lodge with views of the volcanoes.
Gorilla Briefing: Detailed briefing about tomorrow's gorilla trekking experience.
Evening Relaxation: Time to relax and enjoy the lodge facilities.
Welcome Dinner: Dinner at the lodge with mountain views.
Preparation: Final preparation of gear for tomorrow's trek.
DAY 2: GORILLA TREKKING DAY
Early Breakfast: Hearty breakfast at the lodge before departure.
Transfer to Park Headquarters: Short drive to Kinigi Park Headquarters.
Registration & Briefing: Official registration and final briefing by park authorities.
Group Assignment: Assignment to gorilla family group based on fitness level.
Begin Trekking: Enter Volcanoes National Park and start your trek through beautiful montane forest.
The Trek: 1-4 hours of hiking depending on gorilla family location.
Gorilla Encounter: One magical hour with a mountain gorilla family.
Trek Back: Return hike to the starting point.
Certificate Presentation: Receive your gorilla trekking certificate.
Return to Lodge: Transfer back to your lodge for rest and relaxation.
Afternoon Options: Relax at lodge or optional activities:
- Visit to Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village
- Nature walk in surrounding area
- Relaxation and reflection on your gorilla experience
Celebration Dinner: Special dinner to celebrate your gorilla encounter.
DAY 3: TO LAKE KIVU VIA COFFEE PLANTATION
Leisurely Breakfast: Breakfast at the lodge with final views of the volcanoes.
Optional Morning Activity: Depending on departure time:
- Golden Monkey Tracking: Additional primate experience (extra cost)
- Dian Fossey Grave Visit: Trek to Karisoke Research Center (extra cost)
- Local Market Visit: Explore Musanze market for souvenirs
Check-out: Depart from your lodge after breakfast.
Scenic Drive: Journey to Lake Kivu through beautiful Rwandan countryside.
Coffee Plantation Tour: Stop at a working coffee plantation for a tour and tasting.
Lunch en route: Stop for lunch at a restaurant with lake views.
Arrival at Lake Kivu: Reach your lakeside accommodation in Gisenyi or Kibuye.
Lake Kivu Introduction: Brief orientation to the lake and area.
Lodge Check-in: Settle into your comfortable lakeside accommodation.
Evening Relaxation: Time to relax by the lake, take a swim, or walk along the shore.
Sundowner: Enjoy drinks as the sun sets over Lake Kivu.
Lakeside Dinner: Dinner at your accommodation with lake views.
DAY 4: LAKE KIVU EXPLORATION & RELAXATION
Leisurely Breakfast: Breakfast with beautiful lake views.
Morning Boat Cruise: Scenic boat trip on Lake Kivu visiting islands and coves.
Island Visit: Stop at Napoleon Island or another of Lake Kivu's beautiful islands.
Bird Watching: Opportunity to see water birds and island wildlife.
Swimming: Chance for a swim in the lake's safe, bilharzia-free waters.
Return to Shore: Return to your accommodation.
Lunch: Lunch at your lakeside accommodation or a local restaurant.
Afternoon Options: Choose from various activities:
- Cycling: Rent bicycles to explore the lakeside paths
- Walking Tour: Guided walk to local fishing villages
- Kayaking: Optional kayaking on the lake (extra cost)
- Spa Treatment: Relax with a massage or spa treatment (extra cost)
- Pure Relaxation: Simply relax by the pool or lake shore with a book
Cultural Experience: Visit a local community or craft market.
Sundowner Cruise: Optional evening boat trip for sunset viewing (extra cost).
Farewell Dinner: Special farewell dinner by the lake.
DAY 5: LAKE KIVU TO KIGALI DEPARTURE
Final Lakeside Breakfast: Enjoy one last breakfast with Lake Kivu views.
Morning Leisure Time: Final opportunity to enjoy the lake:
- Morning Swim: Take a final swim in the lake
- Lakeside Walk: Walk along the shore one last time
- Last-minute Souvenirs: Visit local craft shops
- Relaxation: Simply enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere
Check-out: Depart from your lakeside accommodation.
Return to Kigali: Scenic drive back to Kigali through the beautiful Rwandan countryside.
Lunch en route: Stop for lunch at a restaurant with panoramic views.
Optional Kigali Tour: Depending on departure time:
- City Tour: Additional Kigali sightseeing if time permits
- Craft Market: Visit Caplaki Craft Market for souvenirs
- Museum Visit: Visit the Rwanda Art Museum or other cultural sites
Final Transfer: Arrive in Kigali by mid-afternoon.
Departure:
- Transfer to Kigali International Airport for departure
- Drop-off at your Kigali hotel if extending your stay
Farewell: Bid farewell to your guide and driver.
Discover Lake Kivu - Rwanda's Inland Sea
Lake Kivu is one of Africa's Great Lakes, stretching 90km long and 50km wide at its widest point. It sits at an altitude of 1,460m, making it one of the highest lakes in Africa. The lake is shared between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Unlike many African lakes, Lake Kivu is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming. The lake's unique methane gas layers prevent the snails that carry bilharzia from surviving, making it one of the few African lakes where you can swim safely.
Lake Kivu contains approximately 55 billion cubic meters of dissolved methane gas, which is being harvested for electricity generation. This unique feature makes the lake both a natural wonder and an important energy resource for Rwanda.
The lake is dotted with beautiful islands, the most famous being Napoleon Island (home to a large fruit bat colony), Monkey Island (with vervet monkeys), and Amahoro Island (Peace Island). Boat trips to these islands are a highlight of any Lake Kivu visit.
Scenic boat trips to islands, fishing villages, and secluded coves
Explore lakeside trails and villages by bicycle
Paddle along the shoreline and explore hidden bays
Try your hand at catching tilapia or other lake fish
Guided walks to fishing villages and local communities
Visit coffee plantations and learn about Rwanda's famous coffee
Safe, bilharzia-free swimming in the lake's clear waters
Simply unwind and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere
Essential Information
For gorilla trekking: boots, waterproof jacket, gloves
For swimming in Lake Kivu
Light, comfortable clothes for lakeside relaxation
High SPF for lake activities
For gorillas and lake scenery
Personal medications and basic first aid
For bright lake conditions
For lakeside relaxation time
Dry Seasons (June-September, December-February): Best for gorilla trekking with less mud and better trail conditions. Lake activities are also more pleasant. Wet Seasons (March-May, October-November): Lush green scenery, fewer tourists, but gorilla trekking can be more challenging. Lake Kivu is beautiful year-round.
Tips for Your Gorilla & Lake Kivu Safari
Pacing: This safari is designed to balance physical activity with relaxation. The gorilla trekking is moderately strenuous, while the Lake Kivu portion is for rest and leisure. Clothing Strategy: Pack both hiking gear for the volcanoes and casual, light clothing for the lake. Mindset: Be prepared to shift from adventure mode to relaxation mode as you move from volcanoes to lake.
Water Safety: While Lake Kivu is bilharzia-free, always swim in designated safe areas and follow local advice. Boat Trips: Book boat trips through reputable operators and always wear life jackets. Island Visits: Some islands have specific visiting hours or requirements - check with your guide. Cultural Respect: When visiting fishing villages, be respectful of local customs and ask before taking photos.
Altitude: Both Volcanoes National Park (2,500-4,500m) and Lake Kivu (1,460m) are at altitude. Stay hydrated and allow time to acclimatize. Sun Protection: Higher altitude means stronger UV rays - use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Malaria: Prophylaxis is recommended for Rwanda, especially for lake areas. Travel Insurance: Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and adventure activities.
Dual Preparation: Your camera needs will vary from gorilla trekking (fast shutter, zoom lens) to lake scenery (wide angle, landscape settings). Water Protection: Bring waterproof bags or cases for your camera during boat trips. Charging: Ensure you have adequate charging opportunities between locations. Memory: Bring plenty of memory cards - you'll want photos of both gorillas and lake scenery.
Accommodation Options:
- Volcanoes Area: Range from comfortable lodges to luxury properties with volcano views
- Lake Kivu: Lakeside resorts, boutique hotels, and eco-lodges with lake views
- Budget Options: Comfortable guesthouses and mid-range hotels available
- Luxury Options: High-end lodges with premium amenities and services
- Seasonal Considerations: Book early for peak seasons (July-August, December)
Ready for Adventure & Relaxation?
Experience the perfect combination of wildlife adventure and lakeside relaxation in beautiful Rwanda. Limited gorilla permits available - book early to secure your spot.
Book This Gorilla & Lake Kivu SafariContact our Rwanda specialists to customize this safari with additional activities or extensions.