9 Days Rwanda Family Safari Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly received by a Gorilla Quest Africa representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a brief orientation drive around the clean and vibrant city of Kigali or simply relax and recover from your journey. The evening is reserved for rest at your luxury hotel where families can enjoy spacious suites, swimming pools, and fine dining. This first day sets the perfect tone for an incredible family adventure across Rwanda.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Kigali Marriott Hotel

Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Kigali City Tour

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a family-friendly tour of Kigali. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, presented in a way that offers an educational yet sensitive experience suitable for older children. Next, head to Kimironko Market where kids can enjoy the colorful displays of crafts, fabrics, and fresh produce. Families can also stop by the Nyamirambo Women’s Center for cultural activities such as cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and traditional dances. End the day with dinner at your hotel, reflecting on Rwanda’s inspiring story of resilience.

Accommodation Options: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Akagera National Park

After breakfast, set off for Akagera National Park, a scenic drive that offers families the chance to see Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your luxury lodge and enjoy lunch overlooking Lake Ihema. In the afternoon, embark on your first family game drive, where children can spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and elephants. Guides make the experience interactive, sharing fun facts about the animals. Return to your lodge in the evening for a relaxed family dinner under the stars.

Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Full Day Exploration in Akagera National Park

Spend the day enjoying Akagera with both morning and afternoon activities. Begin with an early game drive to search for lions, leopards, and other predators, as well as herds of buffalo and elephants. After a picnic-style lunch in the park, families can enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ihema where hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birdlife can be seen up close. Children particularly enjoy the excitement of spotting animals from both land and water. End the day with storytelling by the campfire back at your lodge.

Accommodation Options: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

After breakfast, depart Akagera and begin the scenic drive north toward Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, stop at viewpoints to take in Rwanda’s iconic landscapes and enjoy lunch en route. Arrive in Musanze and check into your luxury lodge nestled at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes. The evening is free for families to relax by the fireplace, take nature walks around the lodge, or enjoy child-friendly activities while anticipating tomorrow’s adventures in gorilla country.

Accommodation Options: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Family Activities and Optional Gorilla Trekking

While adults or older children may choose to participate in the iconic gorilla trekking experience (minimum age 15), families with younger children can enjoy a range of alternative activities. Options include guided nature walks, visits to the Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village, or exploring Musanze town. Everyone reunites at the lodge in the afternoon to share stories and enjoy leisure time. A luxury family dinner with mountain views provides the perfect ending to the day.

Accommodation Options: Bisate Lodge, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Virunga Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Transfer to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, drive to Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s most beautiful freshwater lake. On arrival, check into your luxury lakeside resort and enjoy lunch with panoramic water views. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxation and family fun. Swim, kayak, or take a boat trip to explore nearby islands. The sandy beaches and gentle waves make it safe and enjoyable for children. In the evening, enjoy fresh fish and international cuisine at your resort as the sun sets over the lake.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Paradise Kivu Resort

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Water Adventures and Lakeside Leisure

Spend the entire day enjoying the tranquility of Lake Kivu. Families can choose from exciting water sports such as paddle boarding and canoeing, or simply relax on the sandy shores with beach games for children. Boat trips offer bird watching opportunities and a chance to visit local fishing villages, giving the family insight into lakeside life. The resort provides plenty of activities for children, while adults can indulge in spa treatments or quiet relaxation. End the day with a farewell family dinner by the lake.

Accommodation Options: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Kivu Safari Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Return to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kigali. The scenic drive offers one last chance to enjoy Rwanda’s breathtaking countryside. Depending on your departure schedule, you may stop for souvenir shopping or enjoy a farewell lunch in Kigali. Your driver will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your 9 Days Rwanda Family Safari Adventure with Gorilla Quest Africa. This safari leaves your family with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s wildlife, landscapes, and culture.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 9 Days Rwanda Family Safari Adventure.