10 Days Remarkable Rwanda
10 Days Remarkable Rwanda starts from Kigali – Akagera National Park – Volcanoes National Park – Nyungwe Forest National Park. This is the ultimate safari that you would love to experience giving you all the highlights of Rwanda in style. Staying in the best accommodation in the country, this safari includes three primate trekking opportunities as you seek out mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees. While in Akagera National Park you’ll seek out iconic African wildlife, such as lions, elephants, and giraffes. An option balloon safari flight here is readily available in case you wish to sight the animals from above and very close. Book your 10 Days Remarkable Rwanda now and have a good family time. BOOK NOW
Introduction
| Accommodation | Destination | Basis | Duration |
| The Retreat by Heaven (Luxury Pool Villa) |
Kigali | HB | 1 Night
|
| Magashi Camp-Camp Cottages | Akagera National Park | FB+ | 3 Nights |
| One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Forest King room |
Volcanoes National Park | FB | 3 Nights
|
| One&Only Nyungwe House Nyungwe King room |
Nyungwe Forest National Park | FB | 2 Nights
|
Day 1: The Retreat, Kigali
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.
Day Itinerary
- TBA: Arrival flight time.
- TBA: Arrival test at the Airport.
- TBA Pick up from Kigali International Airport for a 25 minutes transfer to Retreat.
- TBA: Check at your hotel for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Overnight: The Retreat by Heaven
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, a 12-room luxury boutique hotel located on a tree-lined street steps from Kigali City Center and 20 minutes from the airport. 8 new luxury pool villas are under construction and will be open by October 2020. The Retreat is Kigali’s first eco-friendly resort and features solar electricity, organic toiletries, locally-crafted furniture from a Tanzanian sustainable teak farm, outdoor showers, private terraces, a yoga and meditation room, spa, large heated saltwater swimming pool with jacuzzi and diving rocks, and an open-air fitness center. Fusion Restaurant and its Swahili-inspired bar, located at The Retreat, offer delicious farm-to-table international cuisine, while Heaven Restaurant (reached through the Retreat’s “Stairway to Heaven”) offers an innovative modern African menu. The Retreat is the perfect choice to host guests for 1 night or several days as it offers innovative, curated cultural experiences and exciting activities in and around Kigali. From public health to hospitality, co-owners Alissa & Josh Ruxin created Heaven Restaurant in 2008 to provide jobs and vocational training in hospitality, to date, Heaven and The Retreat have trained over 1000 Rwandans in hospitality skills.
Basis
Half Board – Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast- Luxury Pool Villa.
Basis
Half Board – Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast.
Day 2: Magashi, Akagera National Park Travel Time 2.5hrs
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 elephants, zebra, giraffe, buffalo, and other animals roam across its grassy plains. Bursting with rich biodiversity, the park features a variety of rare species, as well as a plentitude of mammals and hundreds of bird species.
Day Itinerary
- 0630: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0730: Transfer to Akagera National Park to the Northern gate.
- 1030: Arrival at the Akagera National Park.
- 1100: Get into Magashi Camp Game drive safari vehicles and be transferred to Magashi.
- 1200: Arrival at Magashi Camp and check-in.
- 1300: Lunch and afternoon activities by the lodge.
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at Magashi Camp.
Overnight: Magashi
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 almost 500 species of birds. Teeming with plains game, Akagera also boasts a healthy population of lions which were introduced by African Parks in 2015 after a 20-year absence; black rhinos were reintroduced in 2017. Magashi – the only exclusive-use area in Akagera – also harbors 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.
Basis
Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Activities.
Day 3: Magashi, Akagera National Park.
Day Itinerary
- 0630: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0700: Morning game drive in Akagera National Park and other days activities by the lodge.
- 1400: Boat safari in Akagera on Lake Rwanyakizinga.
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at Magashi Camp.
Activities
| Akagera National Park Game Drive |
| Akagera National Park Evening Boat Cruise |
Akagera National Park Game Drive
Lead by a guide, Akagera National Park Game Drive occurs early in the mornings and late in the afternoons. While driving along the park tracks in a 4WD Safari vehicle, passengers will have the chance to spot animals such as hyenas, elephants, various buffalo, and lions.
Akagera National Park Evening Boat Cruise
For a stress-free nature experience, tourists can embark on the Akagera National Park Evening Boat Cruise. The cruise will take visitors on an unforgettable journey as the sunsets. The lakes and surroundings offer views of wildlife such as cormorants, hippos, and crocodiles. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to answer any questions and point out points of interest along the cruise.
Basis
Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Activities.
Day 4: Magashi, Akagera National Park
Day Itinerary
- 0630: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0700: Day’s activities by the lodge.
- Proposed day to take COVID test –PCR to use for the gorilla trek.
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at Magashi Camp.
Basis
Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Activities.
Day 5: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Volcanoes National Park Travel Time +5hrs
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.
Day Itinerary
- 0630: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0700: Morning transfer from Akagera National Park back to Kigali.
- 11:00: Arriving in Kigali and be transferred to Musanze in Volcanoes N.P
- 1330: Arrival at Musanze at One &Only Gorillas Nest Lodge
- 1345: Lunch at the Lodge
- 1500: The rest of the afternoon is for relaxation around the lodge
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at the One &Only Gorillas Nest Lodge
Overnight: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
Located in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is an excellent option for a nature vacation. The surrounding area offers attractions and activities such as embarking on a safari in the National Park and gorilla spotting in their natural habitat. The hotel features a selection of comfortably furnished rooms and suites to ensure guests enjoy a relaxing and unforgettable stay.
The elegant suites and lodges are decorated in a modern African style and feature beautiful views of the natural surrounding as well as amenities such as minibars, internet access, TVs, dining areas and spacious bathrooms with nature views. At the Nest restaurant, guests can get a taste of delicious Rwandan cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Guests can also relax with a drink at the bar which serves a variety of beverages.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch
Day 6: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Volcanoes National Park
Day Itinerary
- 0600: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0630: Transfer to the park headquarters for gorilla trekking briefing.
- 0800: Start the gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- 1200: Estimated time of returning from the jungle.
- 1230: Transfer back to the Lodge.
- 1300: Lunch at the Lodge.
- 1500: Instead to do a complimentary activity at the Lodge
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at the One &Only Gorillas Nest Lodge.
Activities
| Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park |
| Complimentary activity at the Lodge. |
Gorilla Trekking Volcanoes National Park
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 take the better part of the day.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch
Day 7: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Volcanoes National Park
Day Itinerary
- 0600: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0630: Transfer to the park headquarters for the golden monkey trekking briefing.
- 0800: Start Golden monkey trek.
- 1130: Estimated time of returning from the jungle.
- 1200: Transfer back to the lodge.
- 1300: Lunch at the Lodge.
- 1500: Instead to do a complimentary activity at the Lodge
- 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at One &Only Gorillas Nest Lodge
Activities
| RDB Golden Monkey Tracking |
| Beyond The Gorillas Experience Authentic Village Walk |
RDB Golden Monkey Tracking
Located in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, RDB Golden Monkey Tracking offers visitors a unique experience of catching a glimpse of the endangered Golden Monkey. These striking primates with their bright orange fur contrasting the green rainforests of the Virunga Mountains is a photographer’s dream. The Golden Monkey can be found in very few places outside of Volcanoes National Park, and their vibrant colours, energetic demeanor, and sizeable troupes of up to 30 individuals are indeed a sight to behold.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch
Day 9: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Situated in southwestern Rwanda, the Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity and its wide range of endemic species. The park is composed of lush tracts of rainforest set high up on fertile mountain slopes. It is one of Africa’s most ancient forests and the home of Rwanda’s sole remaining chimpanzee population, as well as 85 additional mammal species, 43 reptile species, nearly 300 bird species, and over 1000 plant species. Visitors can enjoy spotting Colobus monkeys and chimpanzees hiding in the trees, hiking on a well-maintained network of trails passing through lush equatorial rainforest, and catching a glimpse of a beautiful array of colorful birdlife. Don’t miss the thrilling Canopy Walk, it is one of its kind in Africa and offers impressive views of the forest.
Day Itinerary
- 0800: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0830: Prepare for a transfer to Nyungwe Forests
- 1300: Estimated time to arrive at Nyungwe forests
- 1330:Take on an early lunch at the Lodge
- 1600: Take part in the Complimentary Lodge activities
- 1800: Overnight and dinner at One &Only Nyungwe Lodge
Overnight: One&Only Nyungwe House
One&Only Nyungwe House is set amongst the rich tea-plantations of Gisakura, In Southwest Rwanda, just south of Lake Kivu on the Burundi border. The property is set on the edge of the iconic Nyungwe National Park, which covers approximately 1020 square kilometers of rainforest, bamboo, and swamps. The accommodations at this lodge provide a sense of tranquillity with a fireplace and picturesque private deck. All rooms include breakfast, lunch, and dinner while featuring tea and coffee facilities and an en-suite bathroom with an indoor shower, wilderness-view shower, and stand-alone bath.
The One&Only Spa provides relaxing treatments, while the One&Only Gym allows guests space and equipment for a refreshing workout. Additionally, guests can relax in the infinity pool while having a snack and drink and enjoy a meal by the trees with a picnic or at the elegant restaurant.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch.
Day 9: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park
Day Itinerary
- 0500: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0530: Prepare for transfers to Park headquarters for Chimpanzee trek briefing
- 0530: Start the Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe forests.
- 1230: Estimated time to return from the jungle
- 1330: Lunch at the Lodge
- 1500: Start the Canopy walk experience in Nyungwe forests.
- 1800: Overnight and dinner at One &Only Nyungwe Lodge.
Activities
| Chimpanzee Trekking |
| Canopy Walks Nyungwe Forest |
Chimpanzee Trekking
Offered by the One&Only Nyungwe House, Chimpanzee Trekking is an exciting activity whereby guests will dash through the flora to encounter the chimpanzees playing in the wild within the Nyungwe National Park. With a maximum of 8 people per tour, Chimpanzee trekking is a popular and challenging adventure, but due to the authentic nature of the experience, chimpanzee viewing is not a guarantee.
Canopy Walks Nyungwe Forest
The canopy walk takes place four times a day (8 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 5 pm). The experience lasts around 2 hours total, with a 30-minute walk to the bridge, 1 hour on the bridge, and a walk back. The forest walkway bridge provides the ideal opportunity to spot Colobus Monkeys and birdlife. At its central point, the bridge reaches a height of around (90m).
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch
Day 10: Nyungwe Forest-Kigali OUT Travel Time 5hrs
Day Itinerary
- 0800: Begin the day with a morning breakfast.
- 0830: Prepare for a return transfer back to Kigali.
- 1330: Estimated time to arrive in Kigali ready for lunch at Retreat Fusion Restaurant.
- 1600: Proposed time to transfer to Kigali International Airport.
- 1630: Check-in for your outbound flight to your next destination.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast plus Lunch.
Key
HB: Half Board – Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast
B&B: Bed and Breakfast
FB: Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, and Lunch
FB+: Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch, and Activities.
Included 10 Days Remarkable Rwanda
- Meet and greet assistance on arrival
• Airport and inter-hotel transfers from day 1 to the last day
• Accommodation at The Retreat By Heaven is on Half board basis
• All activities as highlighted in the itinerary
• One & Only Nyungwe House includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, minibar, non-alcoholic beverages, alcoholic house beverages with meals, and two activities per person per day (as defined by the Resort and subject to change without notice).
• One & Only Gorillas Nest includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, minibar, non-alcoholic beverages, alcoholic house beverages with meals, and two activities per person per day (as defined by the Resort and subject to change without notice).
• Accommodation at Magashi Camp includes: – All meals, All local drinks (excludes premium imported brands and champagne), Laundry, Complimentary in-room welcome massage (**additional massages would be for guests own account), Wireless internet connection in room only, Local Government taxes. In the event of a change in local taxes or the introduction of additional taxes, these rates will be adjusted accordingly
• 1 Gorilla permit per person (this includes briefing at RDB offices, guide, trek – US$ 1500.-)
• 1 Chimp trek permit per person (this includes briefing at RDB offices, guide, trek – US$ 90.-)
• 1 Golden Monkey permit per person (this includes briefing at RDB offices, guide, trek – US$ 100.-)
• Canopy walk permit per person (this includes briefing at RDB offices, guide, trek – US$ 60.-)
• Exclusive use of a private safari land cruiser 4×4 with WI-FI in receptive areas
•Services of a professional, experienced English speaking driver-guide
•Bottled mineral water in the vehicle during the tour
•Emergency Medical Evacuation Services
•Our assistance
Excluded in 10 Days Remarkable Rwanda
- International and domestic airline tickets unless where indicated,
- All extra activities, visits, entrances, and extra meals/drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Entry visa fees,
- Optional extras whilst in Kigali
- Drinks throughout the trip,
- Tips and gratuities,
- Personal expenses such as telephone calls, mini bar, porter-age, travel insurance, etc.
- helicopter transfer fees for anticipated long journeys that may be considered using A119 OR A109
- Using A119- for 2 pax
Magashi- Volcanoes -US$ 4,800
Volcanoes -Nyungwe -US$ 5,250
Nyungwe Kigali -US$ 4,250 - Using A109 –for 2 pax
Magashi- Volcanoes -US$ 6,225
Volcanoes -Nyungwe -US$ 6,825
Nyungwe Kigali – US$ 5,525
The journeys above are between 5-6hrs of drive time
See helicopter descriptions.
Agusta (A109S)
The Agusta 109S Grand is a light six-seat twin-engine multi-purpose helicopter produced by the Italian manufacturer Agusta (today AgustaLeonaldo). This helicopter type is mostly operated for passenger transport (executive also) and emergency medical service (EMS) by civil operators. Pilots benefit from a full glass cockpit, which minimized crew workload, enhances situational awareness and excellent visibility. The aircraft features a spacious, rapidly reconfigurable, modular cabin for multirole versatility, cocoon-type, high strength airframe, and crash-resistant systems for passenger comfort and safety. The manufacture year is 2010.
Seats: 6 Max
Weight: 380kg (both body and luggage weight)
———————————————–
Agusta AW119
The Agusta 119 (A119MKII) is a high-performance single-engine helicopter configured for 6 passengers. With the latest technology, enhanced stability augmentation system, and state-of-the-art safety features. This helicopter type is mostly operated for passenger transport and emergency medical service (EMS) by civil operators. The manufacture year is 2017.
Seats: 6 Max
Weight: 380kg (both body and luggage weight)
