Discover Rwanda, an enchanting African jewel, through an 8-day journey weaving together poignant historical tours, intimate wildlife encounters, and serene natural landscapes.

Plan a Rwanda itinerary that allows you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Kigali’s Genocide Memorial, trek alongside chimpanzees in the ancient Nyungwe Forest, and glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu. Embrace the tea traditions at Pfunda and stand where Dian Fossey fought for gorilla conservation in the misty Virunga Mountains. Explore Musanze’s regal caves and witness the rebirth of Akagera National Park, a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and natural splendor.

This transformative voyage not only showcases Rwanda’s rich tapestry of experiences but also invites you to become part of its riveting story of revival and hope.

As we outline this 8-day itinerary for Rwanda, it becomes clear why this country is not just a destination but an emotive adventure that beckons the soul of the modern traveler.

Related read: Things to do in Rwanda

Here’s an overview:

8 Days in Rwanda Itinerary

Ready to explore Rwanda? Here’s our guide to planning the best Rwanda itinerary featuring all the must-see spots.

Rwandan Rendezvous: The First Encounter

As the dawn of your first day in Rwanda breaks, you will be met at the Kigali International Airport by a company driver guide who will welcome you with the warm hospitality Rwanda is famous for.

Your first day will be a poignant one, with a tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a solemn homage to the victims of the 1994 genocide.

Following this reflective visit, revel in the panoramic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, stopping en route at the historic Nyanza Kingdom Palace.

The day concludes at Nyungwenziza Eco Lodge, your serene retreat amongst the ancient forest.

Chimps and Shores: The Heart of Rwanda’s Wilderness

The following morning, excitement builds as you venture into Nyungwe Forest National Park for an intimate encounter with our closest living relatives during chimp trekking.

This private trek not only promises an audience with the chimpanzees but also an opportunity to spot endangered bird species and rare orchids.

Later, unwind on the enchanting shores of Lake Kivu at Ruzizi for a peaceful evening at Peace Guest House, where dinner awaits.

Related read: A Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda

Lake Kivu’s Serenity and Splendor

After a leisurely breakfast around 10 am, you’ll embark on a delightful boat trip along Lake Kivu in western Rwanda.

Nestled on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu is a vibrant gem, the largest of Rwanda’s scenic lakes and one of Africa’s smallest Great Lakes in terms of size. Despite its size, it boasts impressive depth, with the deepest point plunging around 485m.

For lunch, you’ll have the option to dine at Peace Guest House for your second night’s stay.

The lake and its surroundings exude a unique charm, akin to an inland freshwater sea. Dotted with volcanic islands, framed by picturesque beaches, terraced hills, and quaint fishing villages, Lake Kivu offers a truly dramatic setting.

Tea and Tranquility: A Sip of the Verdant Landscape

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic 5 to 6-hour drive to Musanze Province, passing by the charming Pfunda Tea Factory along the way.

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush green tea fields of Pfunda and witness the fascinating process of tea production in Rwanda, from picking and drying to fermenting, packing, and savoring.

The Pfunda Tea Tour kicks off at the Cooperative office, where a knowledgeable guide will delve into the cooperative’s history and Rwanda’s rich tea-making heritage. Hop on one of the Tea Cooperative’s trucks and journey with the tea workers through the sprawling tea plantations. Learn about the growth and life cycle of tea bushes in Rwanda, try your hand at tea picking, and gain a newfound appreciation for the manual labor that goes into each cup of tea.

After a rewarding day of harvesting, hop back on the truck and head to the Pfunda Tea Factory, a prominent player in Rwanda’s tea industry. Explore the factory, witness the various tea processing techniques, and cap off the tour with a delightful tea tasting session.

Finally, retreat to the cozy Isange Paradise Resort for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay.

Tracking the Legacy of Dian Fossey

Hiking up Mt. Karisoke to visit the research center is an incredible experience.

In the late 1960s, Rwanda’s Virunga mountains became the home of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey. Inspired by a friend’s tales and photos of Africa, Fossey embarked on her journey in 1963, forever changing her life and the fate of Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas.

She established the Karisoke Research Center deep in the remote rainforests of northwest Rwanda, where she dedicated two decades to studying and living with eight gorilla groups. Her groundbreaking work was detailed in the 1983 book “Gorillas in the Mist“, which later inspired a film of the same name in 1988.

Despite her tragic murder in 1985, Fossey’s legacy lives on through the conservation efforts of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. Visitors can now pay their respects by visiting her tomb, located near her beloved gorilla Digit at the research center.

The hike to the tomb can take up to 2 hours uphill, offering a chance to spot mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and a variety of wildlife along the way.

After the hike, enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight stay at Isunga Paradise Resort.

Caverns and Conservation: Musanze’s Historical Heart

Morning adventure to the Musanze Caves and Dian Fossey Memorial!

Start your day by visiting the Dian Fossey memorial, then explore the Musanze caves – not just your average caves, but rich in history and culture. These caves were once where new kings were crowned and provided refuge to thousands during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Step into the Musanze caves and be amazed by the lush vegetation surrounding you.

From here, take in the stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, including Mount Gahinga, Karisimbi, and Muhabura. Inside the caves, you’ll discover numerous tunnels and thousands of bats hanging on the walls. The cold, quiet interior features streams of water trickling from the ceiling, creating a unique atmosphere.

These caves, formed 65 million years ago, are a fascinating result of volcanic activity in the region. With a length of about 2 km, the Musanze caves are the most explored in Rwanda.

After your adventure, unwind with dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Isange Paradise Resort.

Akagera National Park: A Story of Rebirth

Head to Akagera National Park in the morning, which is a scenic 5 to 7-hour drive away.

You’ll be staying at the fantastic Akagera Rhino Lodge for the night. Upon arrival, your lunch will await you as you check in.

After a delicious meal, take it easy and unwind in the evening, getting ready for an exciting morning game drive in the park the next day.

The Big Game Finale

Your eighth day on your Rwanda itinerary is dedicated to a game drive through Akagera National Park, where you may encounter the iconic wildlife that symbolizes Africa’s untamed beauty.

The Akagera National Park looks completely different now than it did over 20 years ago when it was facing serious degradation. The impact of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi had a devastating effect on the environment, making the park’s journey to recovery even more impressive.

In 2010, African Parks teamed up with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to take over the management of Akagera National Park, changing its course to one of success and optimism. Right from the start, there was a shared vision: In addition to being a sanctuary for wildlife, the park’s support for local community businesses has flourished, bringing in nearly US$1 million in economic activity through revenue-sharing initiatives.

When visiting Akagera National Park, you’ll be thrilled to discover a wide array of fascinating attractions waiting for you to explore. The park is home to an impressive 8,000 large animals, including Cape Buffalos, African Bush Elephants, Black Eastern Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, Rothschild Giraffes, Hippopotamuses, Bruchell’s Zebras, antelopes, waterbucks, impalas, and many more.

In addition to the diverse wildlife, visitors have the opportunity to encounter various primate species such as vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, silver monkeys, and blue monkeys within the park.

With over 500 bird species calling Akagera National Park home, bird enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. Keep an eye out for the Suaza Shrike, Raptors, the rare Shoebill stork, and the majestic sniper bird among the park’s avian residents.

Explore the park’s 10 picturesque lakes, including popular spots like Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani, to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Akagera National Park.

Post the game drive experience, reflect on the transformative adventures you’ve had as you are transferred back to Kigali International Airport, taking home not just memories but a piece of Rwanda’s enduring spirit.

From the moment you touch down in Rwanda to the last glance back, this eight-day itinerary promises not just a vacation but a voyage of discovery.

Good to Know

When you book a trip like this, you can expect everything to be covered – from exciting activities and expert guides to comfy accommodations with meals included. Your package should also include a top-notch English-speaking tour guide, a snazzy 4×4 vehicle, refreshing drinking water in the car for the transfers, and permits to see the chimpanzees.

Just a heads up—your visa, airfare tickets, boozy beverages, extra activities, and shopping sprees aren’t included in these packages.

Rwanda truly is a must-see destination for any adventurous traveler seeking a blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty. From the moving Genocide Memorial in Kigali to the lush forests of Nyungwe and the majestic Virunga Mountains, this 8-day journey offers a glimpse into the heart of this enchanting African jewel.

Go on this transformative voyage as you explore Rwanda’s vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and inspiring conservation efforts. Let’s not just visit Rwanda but become part of its story of resilience and hope.

Are you ready to embark on this emotive adventure? Pack your bags and let Rwanda weave its magic on you. Get in touch with…