How to Plan the Perfect Rwanda Itinerary: 3- 5- & 7-Day Options
Planning a trip to Rwanda and not sure how much time you need or how to structure the perfect Rwanda itinerary? Whether you have 3 days, 5 days, or 7 days, Rwanda offers a seamless blend of wildlife, culture, adventure and breathtaking landscapes. Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations, famous for gorilla trekking, conservation success stories, pristine national parks and some of the continent’s cleanest, safest cities.
How to Plan the Perfect Rwanda Itinerary: 3- 5- & 7-Day Options
This comprehensive guide breaks down:
- The best time to visit Rwanda
- Essential travel tips for planning your Rwanda itinerary
- An optimised 3-day Rwanda itinerary
- A balanced 5-day Rwanda itinerary
- A full 7-day Rwanda itinerary for those wanting to experience everything
- Optional add-ons and customisations
Let us dive in and help you build the perfect Rwanda itinerary tailored to your travel style and the time you have.
Why Visit Rwanda?
Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last few decades, becoming one of Africa’s most stable and forward-thinking nations. Today, travellers come for:
- Gorilla Trekking
Volcanoes National Park is one of the only places on earth to trek critically endangered mountain gorillas.
- Big Five Game Viewing
Akagera National Park is a restored savannah ecosystem with lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo and leopards.
- Pristine Rainforests
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers chimp trekking, canopy walks and incredible biodiversity.
- A Vibrant, Safe Capital
Kigali is clean, modern and rich in culture and gastronomy.
- Unforgettable Landscapes
From terraced hills to Lake Kivu’s serene shores, Rwanda’s scenery is as much a draw as its wildlife.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda?
Rwanda is a year-round destination, but your Rwanda itinerary may vary depending on the season.
Dry seasons (BEST time for trekking & wildlife)
June to September and December to February
Gorilla and chimp trekking is easier in dry conditions and wildlife viewing in Akagera is at its peak.
Wet seasons (lush, fewer tourists, lower prices)
March to May and October to November
Rainforest activities can be muddier and more challenging, but the landscapes are at their greenest.
Essential Tips for Planning Your Rwanda Itinerary
- Book Gorilla Permits Early
Gorilla trekking permits cost $1500 USD per person and often sell out months ahead. Your Rwanda itinerary should be planned around your trekking date.
- Plan Your Distances
Rwanda is small and most destinations are 2–5 hours apart, making it easy to combine parks even on shorter itineraries.
- Prioritise Experiences
If you have limited time, choose between:
Gorilla trekking, Chimp trekking, Big Five safari, Relaxation at Lake Kivu
Trying to do all in 3 days is impossible; 7 days is ideal.
- Pack for Microclimates
Rwanda’s altitude varies dramatically. Always pack layers, waterproof clothing for rainforests and comfortable trekking shoes.
Rwanda Itinerary Options
Below you will find detailed Rwanda itinerary 3 days, 5-day Rwanda itinerary and 7-day Rwanda itinerary options, each optimised for different travel goals. Choose the one that best fits your timeline or mix and match to create your own Rwanda trip.
3-Day Rwanda Itinerary: Volcanoes & Kigali (Perfect for Gorilla Trekking)
A short Rwanda itinerary for 3 days focuses on the essentials: gorilla trekking and cultural highlights. This is ideal for travellers with limited time who still want a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali plus a City Tour
Morning/Afternoon
- Arrive in Kigali (one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities)
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for essential historical context
- Walk through Nyamirambo, Kigali’s most colourful neighbourhood
- Explore local galleries or enjoy a specialty coffee café
Evening
- Dinner at Heaven Restaurant, Khana Khazana, or The Hut
Overnight: Kigali or transfer to Musanze (2.5 hours)
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Early Morning
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
7:00 AM: Gorilla trekking briefing
Begin trek (1–5 hours depending on gorilla family location)
This will likely be the highlight of your entire Rwanda itinerary. Spending one magical hour with a gorilla family is an unforgettable, emotionally powerful experience.
Afternoon
Lunch at your lodge
Optional visit: IbyIwacu Cultural Village
Overnight: Musanze
Day 3: Golden Monkeys or Canoe Tour + Return to Kigali
Choose one morning activity:
Option A: Golden Monkey Trekking
A fun, light and scenic trek perfect if gorilla trekking was strenuous.
Option B: Twin Lakes Canoe Tour
Enjoy Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera with local fishermen.
Option C: Diane Fossey Hike
For those wanting more trekking and primate history.
Afternoon
Return to Kigali, Shopping or relax before departure
End of 3-day Rwanda itinerary
5-Day Rwanda Itinerary: Gorillas, Kigali & Lake Kivu or Big Five Safari
A 5-day Rwanda itinerary gives you time to combine gorilla trekking with either relaxation or a classic safari. Choose between two styles:
Option A: Volcanoes + Lake Kivu (relaxed, scenic, cultural)
Option B: Volcanoes + Akagera (wildlife-focused Big Five safari)
Option A: 5-Day Rwanda Itinerary (Volcanoes + Lake Kivu)
Day 1: Kigali
As above city highlights, museums and cultural immersion.
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Scenic drive through terraced hills
Visit the Musanze Caves or local markets
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking
Your core Rwanda itinerary experience.
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)
2-hour drive, Relax by the lake, Optional: boat rides, hot springs, coffee tours
Overnight: Gisenyi
Day 5: Kigali Return & Departure
Morning lake view stroll, Transfer to Kigali (3 hours), Final meals or shopping
Option B: 5-Day Rwanda Itinerary (Volcanoes + Akagera National Park)
Day 1: Kigali
Explore the capital.
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Relax at your lodge.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking
The crown jewel of your Rwanda trip.
Day 4: Drive to Akagera National Park (5 hours)
Afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema
Expect hippos, crocodiles and beautiful birdlife.
Day 5: Full Game Drive + Return to Kigali
Morning Big Five safari
Afternoon return to Kigali for your evening flight
A perfect mix of primates and savannah wildlife.
7-Day Rwanda Itinerary: The Ultimate Rwanda Experience
A 7-day Rwanda itinerary allows you to experience all major national parks: Volcanoes, Nyungwe and Akagera. This is the best itinerary for travellers who want a deep and complete Rwanda travel adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Explore the city at a relaxed pace.
Activities
Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, Caplaki Artisan Village
Overnight: Kigali
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Drive through rolling tea plantations and scenic valleys.
Highlights
Visit the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, Stop at Huye Ethnographic Museum, Arrive in Nyungwe by evening
Overnight: Nyungwe
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking + Canopy Walk
Wake before dawn to track chimpanzees in Cyamudongo or Nyungwe’s main forest. The experience is fast-paced, exciting and different from gorilla trekking.
Afternoon
Do the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, suspended above ancient rainforest
Overnight: Nyungwe
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu
A relaxed driving day with breathtaking views.
Activities
Visit tea plantations, Boat ride or kayaking on Lake Kivu
Overnight: Lake Kivu (Karongi or Gisenyi)
Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a leisurely morning, Drive to Volcanoes (2–3 hours), Optional: visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Overnight: Volcanoes National Park
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking
Your most iconic Rwanda itinerary experience.
Optional afternoon
Golden monkeys, Community visit, Relax at your lodge
Day 7: Drive to Akagera National Park
Sunrise transfer (4–5 hours), Afternoon safari or boat cruise on Lake Ihema
You can end your trip here with overnight or return to Kigali depending on your departure schedule.
Possible 7-Day Variation: Prioritising Wildlife
If you would rather have more Big Five encounters, restructure the itinerary as:
- Kigali
- Akagera – game drive
- Akagera – full safari
- Transfer to Volcanoes
- Gorillas
- Lake Kivu
- Kigali + departure
Add-Ons and Customisations for Any Rwanda Itinerary
- Add Golden Monkeys
A fun, light wildlife trek perfect after gorillas.
- Mgahinga or Bwindi (Uganda Extension)
If you want a cheaper second gorilla trek.
- Congo Nile Trail
A multi-day hike or cycling adventure along Lake Kivu.
- Cultural Experiences
Including:
Banana beer brewing, Basket weaving, Local cooking classes
- Luxury Lodge Upgrades
Rwanda has some of Africa’s finest safari lodges.
Where to Stay: Recommended Lodges for Your Rwanda Itinerary
Kigali
The Retreat, Marriott Kigali, Radisson Blu
Volcanoes National Park
Bisate Lodge (luxury), Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (mid-luxury), Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (mid-range)
Nyungwe
One & Only Nyungwe House (luxury), Gisakura Guesthouse (budget)
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Kivu Lodge
Akagera
Magashi Camp (luxury), Ruzizi Tented Lodge (mid-range)
Cost Breakdown for a Rwanda Itinerary
Your Rwanda itinerary cost will vary based on lodging and activities, but here’s a general idea:
Key permit fees
Gorilla trekking: $1500
Chimp trekking: $100
Golden monkeys: $100
Akagera park fees: $100+
Lodging
Budget: $50–150 per night
Mid-range: $150–350 per night
Luxury: $500–2000+ per night
Transport
Private 4×4 with driver: $150–250 per day
Domestic transfers: lower cost if shared
Final Tips for Building the Perfect Rwanda Itinerary
Book permits early, use a 4×4 vehicle, Pack layers and waterproof clothing, Be prepared for altitude, Respect wildlife rules, Leave room for relaxation
Conclusion: Which Rwanda Itinerary Is Best for You?
Choose the 3-Day Rwanda Itinerary if:
You want a quick but unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure with Kigali highlights.
Choose the 5-Day Rwanda Itinerary if:
You want to add either Lake Kivu relaxation or a Big Five safari in Akagera.
Choose the 7-Day Rwanda Itinerary if:
You want a complete Rwanda trip combining gorillas, chimps, safaris and lakeside scenery.
No matter how many days you choose, Rwanda delivers a life-changing travel experience. With efficient travel routes, breathtaking landscapes and world-class wildlife encounters, your Rwanda itinerary will be one of the most memorable journeys you have ever taken.
Maseke Adventure is an expert in Uganda, Rwanda Gorilla & Wildlife Safaris!
