Rwanda 7 Day Itinerary

Rwanda 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

  • Arrival: Arrive at Kigali International Airport (KGL)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Kigali, such as the Hotel des Mille Collines or similar
  • Afternoon: Explore Kigali city, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, and walk around the Kimironko Market
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Rwandan cuisine and live music at a local restaurant

Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

  • Morning: Drive to Volcanoes National Park ( approx. 2 hours)
  • Afternoon: Go on a guided hike in the park, spotting monkeys and birds
  • Evening: Relax at your lodge, such as the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking

  • Morning: Embark on a Gorilla Trek, led by experienced guides and trackers (approx. 2-4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation
  • Evening: Enjoy a campfire and stargazing at the lodge

Day 4: Volcanoes National Park to Lake Kivu

  • Morning: Drive to Lake Kivu (approx. 4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour on the lake, visiting nearby islands and fishing villages
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, with stunning views of the lake

Day 5: Lake Kivu

  • Morning: Visit the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel for a relaxing morning by the pool or on the beach
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby town of Gisenyi, with its bustling markets and waterfront promenade
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake

Day 6: Lake Kivu to Kigali

  • Morning: Drive back to Kigali (approx. 4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Rwanda, showcasing the country’s history and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, with traditional music and dance performances

Day 7: Departure from Kigali

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Departure: Depart from Kigali International Airport (KGL)

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Rwanda offers a visa on arrival for most nationalities, valid for 30 days. Check with the Rwandan embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations, including yellow fever and Hepatitis A.
  • Currency: The Rwandan franc (RWF) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: Kinyarwanda is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

Transportation

  • Flights: Book flights to Kigali International Airport (KGL)
  • Car and Driver: Hire a car and driver for the duration of your trip, or use public transportation and taxis
  • Road Conditions: Roads in Rwanda are generally good, but may be rough in some areas

Other Things of Interest

  • Mountain Biking: Explore Rwanda’s scenic countryside on two wheels
  • Coffee Plantations: Visit a coffee plantation to learn about Rwanda’s famous coffee production
  • Community Tourism: Engage with local communities and support their development through tourism initiatives

Remember to stay safe, respect local customs and traditions, and enjoy your trip to Rwanda!