12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari: An Unforgettable Adventure

Welcome to an extraordinary 12-day Rwanda and Kenya safari, crafted for travelers seeking a unique blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. This mid-range safari promises an immersive journey through two of East Africa’s most iconic destinations. From the lush hills of Rwanda, where the majestic mountain gorillas roam, to the expansive savannahs of Kenya, teeming with the renowned Big Five, this adventure is designed to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

The 12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari begins in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, where you will gain insight into the country’s poignant history at the Genocide Memorial before venturing into Akagera National Park for thrilling wildlife sightings. As we travel through the stunning Volcanoes National Park, you will trek alongside the gentle giants of the forest—the mountain gorillas—and experience the cultural richness of Rwanda through visits to local communities.

In Kenya, you will explore the picturesque Lake Naivasha, experience the rugged beauty of Hell’s Gate National Park, and embark on unforgettable game drives in the Maasai Mara, where the annual wildebeest migration takes center stage. With carefully curated activities and accommodations, this safari is designed to cater to diverse interests, ensuring a fulfilling adventure for all.

Join us on this remarkable 12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari journey, where every day offers new opportunities to connect with nature, wildlife, and local cultures. Let the beauty of Africa unfold before your eyes!

12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda | Genocide Memorial Visit | Travel to Akagera National Park
• Day 2: Morning Game Drive in Akagera National Park | Travel Back to Kigali
• Day 3: Travel to Volcanoes National Park | Visit the Dian Fossey Center | Iby’iwacu Cultural Village Tour
• Day 4: Gorilla Trekking | Relax at Your Hotel
• Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking | Drive to Lake Kivu
• Day 6: Optional Activities (Kayaking or Boat Ride) | Drive to Nyungwe National Park
• Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking | Drive to Kigali | Flight to Kenya
• Day 8: Travel to Lake Naivasha National Park | Boat Ride
• Day 9: Travel to Hell’s Gate National Park for Biking | Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park
• Day 10: Morning Game Drive | Travel to Maasai Mara National Park | Evening Game Drive
• Day 11: Full Day Game Drive | Maasai Village Visit
• Day 12: Final Day | Flight Back Home

Detailed 12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Rwanda | Genocide Memorial Visit | Travel to Akagera National Park

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, a representative from Renai Adventures will warmly welcome you with a personalized sign. You’ll embark on a short city tour of Kigali, which includes a visit to the Genocide Memorial. This site is a powerful testament to Rwanda’s history, providing insights into the resilience of the Rwandan people and their journey toward healing and unity.

After this poignant visit, you will journey to Akagera National Park, a beautiful reserve spanning 1,200 square kilometers, characterized by savannah, wetlands, and lakes. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, Akagera is one of the best places to see Africa’s Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.

You will arrive at your accommodation in time for lunch before setting off on an exciting evening game drive. The park hosts various big mammals, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and many bird species, with over 500 recorded in the park. This diverse ecosystem offers a perfect opportunity for stunning photography.

Dinner and overnight at Dereva Hotel.
Main Destination: Akagera National Park (Rwanda)

 

Day 2: Morning Game Drive in Akagera National Park | Travel Back to Kigali

Awaken early for a morning game drive, where the soft light of dawn illuminates the savannah. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants and buffaloes, often seen roaming in herds. The park’s varied landscapes provide excellent habitats for wildlife, including antelope species and the recently reintroduced lions and rhinos.

After a rewarding morning in the wild, return to your lodge for breakfast before heading back to Kigali. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a scenic drive, with picturesque views of Rwanda’s rolling hills. Stop for lunch along the way before checking into your hotel in Kigali.

Dinner and overnight at Kigali Holiday Hotel.
Main Destination: Kigali
Accommodation: Kigali Holiday Hotel

Day 3: Travel to Volcanoes National Park | Visit the Dian Fossey Center | Iby’iwacu Cultural Village Tour

Following breakfast, set off for Volcanoes National Park, home to the iconic mountain gorillas. On arrival in Musanze, visit the Dian Fossey Center, dedicated to the conservation of gorillas and their habitat. Here, you will learn about the life of the famous primatologist Dian Fossey and her groundbreaking work in gorilla conservation.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village. Engage with community members, experience traditional dance performances, and learn about Rwandan customs. This cultural interaction adds a unique dimension to your 12 Days Rwanda Kenya Mid-Range Safari experience, offering a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Dinner and overnight at Garden Palace Hotel.
Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)

 

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking | Relax at Your Hotel

After an early breakfast, gather at the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Armed with your trekking gear and packed lunch, embark on an unforgettable journey into the forest to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Volcanoes National Park is home to twelve fully habituated gorilla families, each with its own unique dynamics. Trekking through the dense forest is an adventure in itself, leading to breathtaking encounters with these gentle giants. As you observe them interacting, feeding, and playing, you will understand why this experience is so transformative.

After an exhilarating day, return to your hotel to unwind and reflect on your experience.

Dinner and overnight at Garden Palace Hotel.
Main Destination: Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
Accommodation: Garden Palace Hotel

 

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trekking | Drive to Lake Kivu

After breakfast, set off to track the vibrant golden monkeys, another of Rwanda’s endemic primates. These playful creatures can be seen leaping through the trees, providing excellent photographic opportunities. Their playful nature and the beauty of the surrounding forest make this a delightful experience.

Post-lunch, depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, nestled between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Upon arrival, settle into your lakeside accommodation and enjoy the stunning views as the sun sets over the water.

Dinner and overnight at Cyimbili Guest House.
Main Destination: Lake Kivu (Rwanda)
Accommodation: Cyimbili Guest House

 

Day 6: Optional Activities (Kayaking or Boat Ride) | Drive to Nyungwe National Park

This morning, indulge in optional activities on Lake Kivu. Choose between kayaking along the serene shores or taking a boat ride to explore the lake’s beauty and surrounding islands. After a refreshing morning, begin your journey to Nyungwe National Park, which boasts the largest block of montane forest in East and Central Africa.

On your way, you will stop for lunch before reaching the park. Upon arrival, experience the exhilarating canopy walk, suspended 50 meters above the ground, offering stunning views of the forest canopy and the chance to spot birds and monkeys at eye level.

Dinner and overnight at Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge.
Main Destination: Nyungwe National Park (Chimps)
Accommodation: Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge

Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking | Drive to Kigali | Flight to Kenya

Awake early for breakfast before heading to Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking. This biodiverse park is home to both bonobos and common chimpanzees, and the thrill of encountering these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is unparalleled.

Following your trek, return to the lodge for lunch before driving back to Kigali for your evening flight to Kenya. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a Renai Adventures representative will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Nairobi.

Dinner and overnight at Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel.
Main Destination: Nairobi (City, Kenya)
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel

 

Day 8: Travel to Lake Naivasha National Park | Boat Ride

After an early breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before heading out for an evening boat ride. This is a perfect opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including hippos basking in the water and various bird species adorning the shores.

The tranquil setting of Lake Naivasha, combined with the stunning scenery, offers a serene escape and a chance to unwind.

Dinner and overnight at Burch Resort.
Main Destination: Lake Naivasha (Kenya)
Accommodation: Burch Resort

 

Day 9: Travel to Hell’s Gate National Park for Biking | Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park

Start your day with breakfast before heading to Hell’s Gate National Park for an exhilarating biking adventure. Cycle through the stunning landscapes characterized by cliffs, gorges, and geothermal activity. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pedal through this unique park, known for its scenic beauty and diverse fauna.

After an adventurous morning, travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its flamingos and other bird species, along with a variety of wildlife. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation before embarking on an evening game drive to explore the park.

Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Lodge.
Main Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park (Kenya)
Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge

 

Day 10: Morning Game Drive | Travel to Maasai Mara National Park | Evening Game Drive

Following an early breakfast, set out for a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park. The park is renowned for its large populations of rhinos and lions, as well as its breathtaking views from the surrounding hills. After an exciting morning, return to your lodge for lunch before departing for Maasai Mara National Park.

Upon arrival in the Maasai Mara, check into your lodge and embark on an evening game drive, where you will have the chance to see the park’s famous wildlife, including elephants, cheetahs, and lions, against the backdrop of the stunning African sunset.

Dinner and overnight at Mara Ashnil Lodge.
Main Destination: Maasai Mara National Park (Kenya)
Accommodation: Mara Ashnil Lodge

 

Day 11: Full Day Game Drive | Maasai Village Visit

Prepare for an exhilarating full-day game drive in the Maasai Mara, home to some of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth. Depending on the season, you may witness the famous wildebeest migration or the big cats in action. Your guide will ensure you spot the Big Five and much more, sharing insights into the behaviors and habits of these magnificent animals.

In the afternoon, visit a local Maasai village to learn about the culture and traditions of the Maasai people. This cultural experience enriches your safari adventure, offering insights into the local way of life.

Dinner and overnight at Mara Ashnil Lodge.
Main Destination: Maasai Mara National Park (Kenya)

Day 12: Final Day | Flight Back Home

On your last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for your final game drive in the Maasai Mara. This is your last chance to soak in the beauty of the savannah and spot any wildlife you may have missed. Return to your lodge for a delicious lunch before checking out.

After lunch, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your international departure flight, concluding your unforgettable 12-day safari adventure.

 

Conclusion

This 12-day Rwanda-Kenya mid-range safari offers a unique blend of wildlife experiences, cultural interactions, and stunning landscapes. From the thrilling encounters with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Rwanda to the awe-inspiring wildlife in the Maasai Mara, this journey is designed to create lasting memories for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Join us for a truly unforgettable experience!