The perfect 7-day Rwanda travel itinerary
Aline Uwase · Trip planner, KigaliUpdated 3 Sep 2026 · 9 min read
Gorillas, chimpanzees and the Big Five in one week — the route we recommend to most first-time visitors, and how to adapt it.
The route at a glance
Seven days is enough to see Rwanda’s three great wildlife experiences without rushing. The drives are short and scenic, and every night is spent somewhere special.
| Days | Where | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kigali | Arrival, Genocide Memorial, Kimironko market |
| 2–3 | Volcanoes | Gorilla trekking and golden monkeys |
| 4–5 | Nyungwe | Chimpanzee tracking and the canopy walk |
| 6–7 | Akagera | Big Five game drives and Lake Ihema boat |
Day 1 · Kigali
Land in Kigali and spend the afternoon at the Kigali Genocide Memorial — essential for understanding the country — then browse Kimironko market before dinner.
Days 2–3 · Volcanoes National Park
Drive north in the morning. On day three, trek to a gorilla family; spend the afternoon at the Iby’Iwacu cultural village or simply by the fire at your lodge.
Recommended tourGorillas & the Big Five in one week · 6 daysFrom $3,420 ppDays 4–5 · Nyungwe Forest
A long but beautiful drive along the Congo-Nile road to Nyungwe. Track chimpanzees at dawn and walk the canopy bridge in the afternoon.
Days 6–7 · Akagera National Park
Short on time?
Drop Nyungwe and you have our 6-day Gorillas & Big Five route — the same highlights with less driving.
Cross the country to the savanna for game drives and a sunset boat among hippos, then return to Kigali for your flight home.
