8-Day Birds And Beasts Tour in Rwanda with Peter Wairasho
This immersive safari takes you through Rwanda’s most iconic landscapes, starting in Kigali and into the lush Nyungwe Forest National Park for exceptional birdwatching, canopy walks, and waterfall hikes. Continue to Volcanoes National Park for the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking, with a scenic…
About this tour
This immersive safari takes you through Rwanda’s most iconic landscapes, starting in Kigali and into the lush Nyungwe Forest National Park for exceptional birdwatching, canopy walks, and waterfall hikes. Continue to Volcanoes National Park for the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking, with a scenic stop at Lake Kivu along the way. The journey then explores the bird-rich Rugezi Swamp and the wildlife-filled Akagera National Park, combining birding with classic game drives. A perfect blend of primates, birds, and scenic beauty, this safari offers a complete Rwandan wildlife experience.
Highlights include Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park – a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, Exceptional Birdwatching across Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rugezi Swamp, and Akagera National Park, Canopy Walk Adventure above the rainforest in Nyungwe, Waterfall Hike to the scenic Kamiranzovu Waterfall and Primate Encounters including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.
Current departure availability and price are confirmed after inquiry. The program may be adapted to weather, access, bird activity and guest priorities. Wild bird and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Guides
Itinerary ▼
Arrival in Kigali Arrival in Kigali Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an optional city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial or explore local markets. Overnight in Kigali.
Kigali → Nyungwe Forest National Park Nyungwe Forest National Park After breakfast, depart for Nyungwe Forest National Park with scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon birding session along forest trails, where you may spot rare Albertine Rift species. Keep an eye out for primates such as colobus monkeys. Dinner and overnight at a lodge in Nyungwe.
Nyungwe Forest (Canopy Walk & Waterfall Hike) Nyungwe Forest (Canopy Walk & Waterfall Hike) Start the day with the famous canopy walk, a suspended bridge offering breathtaking views of the forest canopy and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Later, embark on a guided hike to the scenic Kamiranzovu Waterfall, spotting birds and enjoying the lush surroundings. Dinner and overnight in Nyungwe.
Nyungwe → Volcanoes National Park (via Lake Kivu) Volcanoes National Park (via Lake Kivu) After breakfast, drive to Volcanoes National Park with a scenic stop at Lake Kivu for relaxation and birding. Continue to the foothills of the Virunga Mountains, arriving in the evening. Dinner and overnight at a lodge near the park.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Today is the highlight of your safari. After an early briefing, set out for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Spend a magical hour observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, optional visit to a cultural village to experience traditional Rwandan life. Dinner and overnight near the park.
Volcanoes → Rugezi Swamp Volcanoes → Rugezi Swamp After breakfast, transfer to Rugezi Swamp, a haven for wetland bird species. Spend the day exploring the swamp and its surroundings, spotting rare birds such as papyrus specialists. Dinner and overnight near Rugezi.
Rugezi → Akagera National Park Rugezi → Akagera National Park Depart for Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive, where you may see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more, alongside diverse birdlife. Dinner and overnight in the park.
Akagera → Kigali (Departure) Akagera → Kigali (Departure) Enjoy a final morning game drive or birding session in Akagera National Park. Later, transfer back to Kigali for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda safari.
Locations & map
- Kigali - Rwanda (Conditions vary by habitat and season; current access and weather are confirmed before travel.)
- in Kigali in Kigali Upon at Kigali International Airport, you’ll be warmly… - Rwanda (Conditions vary by habitat and season; current access and weather are confirmed before travel.)
- Akagera → Kigali ( ) Akagera → Kigali ( ) Enjoy a final morning or … - Rwanda (Conditions vary by habitat and season; current access and weather are confirmed before travel.)
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Year-round, with the most suitable dates for the route and target birds confirmed after inquiry
Price: Price on request
Included
- Airport transfers and all ground transportation throughout the safari - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Accommodation for 7 nights in Kigali, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Rugezi Swamp, and Akagera National Park - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Meals as per itinerary (typically breakfast, lunch, and dinner while on safari) - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- All park entrance fees - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Nyungwe canopy walk experience - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Guided forest walks, waterfall hike, and birdwatching excursions - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
- Game drives in Akagera National Park - Subject to the confirmed proposal.
Not included
- International and domestic flights - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Visa fees and travel insurance - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Alcoholic drinks, tips, and personal expenses - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Optional activities (e.g., cultural village visit) - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Additional accommodation before/after the tour in Kigali - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Personal items (e.g., souvenirs, camera fees if applicable) - Not included unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Transport & stays
- Private safari vehicle and route-specific walking, Transport and field activities follow the confirmed itinerary. Vehicle type and any boat transfers are reconfirmed for the selected dates. | Meet: Airport or an agreed accommodation in Kigali | Pickup: Airport or accommodation pickup is arranged where included in the final proposal.
Accommodations
- Route accommodation (days 1-8) Confirmed for the selected dates
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
How are dates and price confirmed?
Send the preferred dates, group size and accommodation expectations through BirdWatch.info for a current proposal.
Can the birding program be customized?
The final route and target priorities can be adjusted to guest interests, season, access and local conditions.