Rwanda is not only home to mountain gorillas but also an exceptional destination for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. With more than 700 bird species, savannah game, and forest wildlife, Rwanda offers an unparalleled combination of biodiversity. This 6 Days Rwanda Wildlife and Bird Watching Tour by Wanderwort Safaris is designed for travelers who want to enjoy thrilling game drives in Akagera National Park, explore Nyungwe’s pristine rainforests, and spot rare bird species, all while staying in luxurious lodges that complement the natural surroundings.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
On arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Wanderwort Safaris representative and transferred to your luxury hotel in Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a brief city tour including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial or the Kimironko Market for a taste of local life. Relax and prepare for your adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park
After breakfast, depart for Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda, a scenic drive of about 2.5 hours. Akagera is a haven for both birdlife and wildlife, with over 500 bird species including the papyrus gonolek and the elusive shoebill stork. On arrival, check in to your luxury lodge and enjoy a late afternoon game drive to spot giraffes, zebras, elephants, and numerous bird species along the plains and lakeshores.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Full-Day Safari – Bird Watching in Akagera
Spend the day exploring Akagera on game drives. Traverse its varied landscapes of woodland, savannah, and wetlands, searching for lions, leopards, and buffalo alongside a wide array of bird species such as the African fish eagle, crowned cranes, and carmine bee-eaters. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Lake Ihema where you will see hippos, crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds including kingfishers and herons.
Accommodation: Magashi Camp, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 4: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, journey southwest to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a lush tropical rainforest that is a paradise for bird watchers with over 300 bird species including 27 Albertine Rift endemics. Along the drive, enjoy Rwanda’s rolling hills and scenic countryside. Arrive at your luxury lodge nestled at the edge of the forest and relax in the serene atmosphere.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 5: Bird Watching – Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
Begin your day with guided bird watching in Nyungwe Forest. Look out for the great blue turaco, Ruwenzori turaco, red-throated alethe, and other Albertine Rift endemics. After lunch, enjoy the famous canopy walk, a suspended bridge that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest and its wildlife. Return to your lodge in the evening for relaxation, fine dining, and breathtaking forest views.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guesthouse.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 6: Return to Kigali – Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning bird watching session or a forest walk before departing for Kigali. The drive offers scenic views and cultural insights into Rwanda’s countryside. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a farewell lunch in Kigali before being transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary.
- Transportation in a 4×4 Safari vehicle.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Bottled Water in the car.
- Tour guide allowances.
The tour cost excludes; International air fare, Visa fees, personal travel insurance, tips to local guides, souvenirs, personal shopping bills, laundry, alcoholic drinks and items not listed as included in the cost.