This 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the best of Rwanda’s wildlife and natural beauty. You will witness gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees in their natural habitats, while also encountering a diverse array of wildlife through game drives and birding in Akagera National Park. Designed to showcase all three of Rwanda’s national parks, this itinerary ensures a seamless and unforgettable adventure. For added convenience, the parks are connected via helicopter flights, allowing you to minimize travel time and maximize your exploration. Throughout the journey, you will savor the finest organic meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and indulge in world-renowned luxury accommodations. As you fly over Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort and personalized care. Experience adventure redefined, immerse yourself in the wonders of Rwanda, all in the lap of luxury.
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted through immigration and luggage collection. Once you exit the airport, our company guide will be waiting to greet you and be transferred to your reserved hotel, where you will receive a comprehensive briefing about your upcoming 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari. Your evening will conclude with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel, setting the stage for the incredible adventure ahead. Accommodation Options:
Meals: Dinner
After enjoying a relaxed buffet breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and our driver will transfer you for a rod transfer to Akagera National park, where you can admire Rwanda’s beauty. Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda along the Tanzania border, offers a classic savannah experience with abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, and an impressive variety of bird species. You shall do game drive and boat trip inside the National park. Accommodation Options:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After an early breakfast at 6:00 a.m., you’ll depart for a morning game drive in Akagera National Park, aiming to catch both the late-night hunters and early risers in action. During this drive, you’ll have the opportunity to spot some of the park’s largest mammals, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, various antelope species, and the recently reintroduced lions and rhinos. Akagera’s diverse habitats support a wealth of wildlife and over 500 bird species, making it a true paradise for bird enthusiasts. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the park’s stunning scenery. After lunch, continue with your game drive to seek out even more of the abundant wildlife within this remarkable park. Later in the day, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening. Accommodation Options:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today, you will will continue your 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari by catching up with your next flight to Nyungwe National Park, which is one of the tropical national parks, known as home to primates, harboring over 13 primate species including the great chimpanzees. You will be transferred to the airfield to board off, for Nyungwe, via Kigali airport en route to Nyungwe. On arrival, you will find your guide waiting for you, to transfer you to your booked accommodation. Accommodation Option:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today, after enjoying an early morning cup of African coffee, head to park office and upon arrival at the park, you will attend a briefing session before embarking on a thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventure. Once the chimpanzees are located, one hour observing them in their natural habitat will be provided. Following the trek, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge before proceeding to the canopy walk, a breathtaking experience on a 70-meter-high suspended metallic bridge. This walk provides a stunning aerial view of the Nyungwe Forest, and with a bit of luck, you may spot additional primates during the approximately 1.5 hour journey. Later in the day, you will return for dinner and an overnight stay. Accommodation Option:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After your buffet breakfast, you will fly to Volcanoes National Park, for an epic stay, and gorilla trekking on the next day. This is a 20-minute flight that will reward you with a great aerial view of Lake Kivu. You will be well received by your guides and transferred to the lodge. This is one of the most highly demanded luxuries lodges, with a personalized retreat. You will feel lost in nature, with a great view of the great Virunga volcanoes. Accommodation Options:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Finally, here comes the day, to get face-to-face with the gentle gorillas. After your breakfast, your guide, will be right there, to pick you up from your lodge, for briefing at the park headquarters’, and you will later set off, for the search in the jungle, to allocate the gorilla family. A minimal level of fitness is required as the activity is so hectic. In a short while of hiking, you will find the gorillas, and you will have an ample moment of interaction, one on one, eye to eye. An hour will be allocated for you, such that you’re able to stay calm in their presence, and take as many photos of your choices, and video clips as well. Later you will descend, and return to your lodge for lunch and dinner. Accommodation Options:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After enjoying a buffet breakfast, you will check out of the lodge and proceed to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing, which will prepare you for an exciting golden monkey trekking experience. During the trek, you will have the unique opportunity and spend an hour observing and interacting with the golden monkeys. After you will visit the Iby’Iwacu Gorilla Guardians’ Village for an enriching cultural experience. At the village where you will gain valuable insights into the traditions and heritage of the local community. Later, you will enjoy a leisurely lunch and, in the afternoon, continue your 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari with a road transfer to Kigali. Upon arrival in Kigali, our driver will take you to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Accommodation Options:
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After your morning breakfast, and depending on your flight schedule, our driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure. You will carry cherished memories of your time with us in Rwanda. We look forward to welcoming you again or to the friends and family you may recommend. We wish you a safe flight and a pleasant stay ahead. End of 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari
From $12,476 per person (2 pax)
Package includes:
This 9 Days journey is designed for travelers who want a well-paced, expertly coordinated experience in Rwanda. The schedule balances headline wildlife encounters with the practical travel time required between parks, towns, and lodges. Your final route is confirmed around permit availability, seasonal conditions, preferred accommodation level, and arrival or departure flights. Because every group travels differently, the published program should be treated as a strong foundation rather than a rigid timetable. Families, photographers, honeymooners, solo travelers, and private groups can all request adjustments. Early planning gives the widest choice of lodges and the best chance of securing limited gorilla or chimpanzee permits on the ideal date.
Your guide coordinates airport reception, road transfers, activity briefings, park entry, and lodge check-ins throughout the safari. Driving times in East Africa can vary because of weather, road works, wildlife sightings, and stops requested by guests. Scenic transfers are part of the experience, passing cultivated hills, busy trading centers, lakes, forests, and rural communities. Most days begin after breakfast, although trekking and game-drive days may start before sunrise. The itinerary includes sensible rest opportunities, meal breaks, and time to prepare equipment. Private transport allows the guide to adjust stops when practical, while still protecting confirmed permits and park schedules. Guests should share flight details and any mobility considerations before final confirmation.
Accommodation can be arranged in comfortable mid-range, premium, or luxury properties depending on budget and travel style. Selection is based on location, reliable service, cleanliness, responsible operations, and convenient access to the next activity. Rooms are normally offered on a sharing basis, with single rooms available at a supplement. Meal plans vary by destination; remote safari lodges commonly include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while city stays may include breakfast only. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, allergies, or medical restrictions should be provided in advance. Drinking water is carried in the safari vehicle, and guides can recommend safe restaurants or arrange packed meals when the day’s route requires them.
Wildlife experiences take place in natural ecosystems, so sightings and trek duration cannot be guaranteed. Expert guides use current park information, animal behavior, tracks, calls, and local knowledge to create the strongest possible experience without disturbing wildlife. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking may involve steep, muddy, or uneven forest trails. Game drives can include long periods of patient observation followed by sudden activity. Guests should approach every encounter quietly, follow ranger instructions, and avoid blocking an animal’s route. The quality of a safari is not measured only by a checklist of species; landscapes, smaller wildlife, birdlife, conservation stories, and time spent observing natural behavior are equally rewarding parts of the journey.
Primate permits and selected park activities have limited daily capacity and are confirmed only after payment and official issuance. Names and passport details must match the travel document used at the park entrance. Permit rules, prices, and availability are controlled by the relevant wildlife authority and may change. Once issued, permits often have strict amendment and cancellation conditions. The tour team coordinates the paperwork, advises on deadlines, and places each confirmed activity into the most efficient route. Travelers should not book non-refundable international flights until the essential permit dates have been checked. Carrying a passport or an approved copy on activity days is recommended, as rangers may verify identity during registration.
A reasonable level of mobility makes the safari more comfortable, particularly where forest trekking, steps, altitude, or long drives are involved. Training with regular walks before departure can improve stamina and confidence. Travelers should consult a qualified medical professional about vaccinations, malaria prevention, prescription medication, altitude concerns, and personal health needs. Essential medication belongs in hand luggage, ideally with a copy of the prescription. Travel insurance should cover medical treatment, evacuation, cancellation, and the specific activities included in the itinerary. Porters are strongly recommended on primate treks: they carry daypacks, offer steady support on difficult ground, and provide direct income to communities living near protected areas.
Pack light, practical layers rather than bulky outfits. Useful items include broken-in waterproof walking shoes, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, a breathable rain jacket, warm fleece, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, small daypack, gardening-style gloves for forest vegetation, and protective bags for electronics. Neutral colors are best for wildlife activities. Evenings at elevation can feel cool, while lower parks may be hot during the day. A compact first-aid kit, spare prescription glasses, charging cables, power bank, and universal adapter are helpful. Avoid bringing single-use plastic bags where restricted. Lodges generally offer laundry service, although undergarments may need to be washed personally.
A modern phone or camera can produce excellent safari images. Bring fully charged batteries, sufficient memory, and a protective cover against dust or rain. A moderate telephoto lens is useful for game drives, while a wider or standard lens often works better in dense forest where animals may be close. Flash photography is prohibited around primates and can disturb other wildlife. Rangers decide safe viewing positions, and guests must never step away from the group for a photograph. Photograph people only after asking permission. Binoculars add enormous value for birds, distant mammals, and landscape details. The best approach is to take a few careful photographs, then lower the camera and experience the encounter directly.
Protected areas depend on visitors following conservation rules. Maintain the required distance from wildlife, keep voices low, do not feed animals, and carry all waste out of parks. If a ranger asks the group to move, mask, stop photographing, or end an encounter, the instruction protects both guests and animals. Respectful cultural visits are based on conversation rather than performance: ask before taking photographs, listen to local hosts, and avoid promises or gifts that cannot be sustained. Buying locally made products and using community services can keep more tourism income in the destination. Water and energy should be used carefully, especially in remote lodges with limited infrastructure.
Carry a combination of bank cards and a modest amount of local currency for personal purchases, optional activities, drinks, souvenirs, and tips. ATMs are most reliable in larger towns, while remote lodges may have limited card connectivity. Notify your bank before travel and keep emergency funds separate from daily spending. Tipping is voluntary but customary when service has been good; suggested amounts can be provided for guides, rangers, porters, lodge teams, and activity staff. Mobile coverage is generally useful near towns but may be weak inside parks. Wi-Fi quality varies considerably. Download travel documents and important contacts before leaving the city rather than depending on constant internet access.
This itinerary can operate in different seasons, each with advantages. Drier months often provide firmer trails and easier road conditions, while greener months bring dramatic scenery, active birdlife, softer light, and fewer visitors. Tropical weather can change quickly, so rain protection is useful throughout the year. Park conditions may require changes to drive times, trail choices, or the order of activities. These operational adjustments do not reduce the value of the tour; they allow guides to respond safely to current conditions. Peak travel periods require earlier reservations and may carry higher lodge rates. Shoulder-season travel can offer greater availability and a quieter atmosphere for flexible guests.
The 9 Days Rwanda Luxury Flying Safari can be adapted with extra nights, upgraded lodges, domestic flights, private photography support, cultural activities, additional game drives, lake excursions, or time in neighboring destinations. Travelers arriving from a long international journey may benefit from an extra night before the first major activity. Extensions should be designed around geography rather than simply adding disconnected stops. Share your priorities, preferred room type, walking ability, dietary needs, celebration plans, and approximate budget at the enquiry stage. A thoughtful custom version protects the core highlights while making the journey feel personal. Final pricing depends on travel dates, group size, permit costs, lodge category, transport arrangements, and confirmed availability.
To request this tour, provide preferred dates, number of travelers, ages of children, room configuration, arrival plans, and the experiences that matter most. The team checks availability and returns a tailored proposal with inclusions, exclusions, payment terms, and cancellation conditions. Review names and dates carefully before paying a deposit. After confirmation, keep passports valid for the required period and check visa rules for every country on the route. Reconfirm flight details before departure and share any changes promptly. A final briefing covers meeting arrangements, emergency contacts, packing reminders, and the first day’s schedule. Clear communication before arrival allows the guide and operations team to deliver a smooth safari.
Yes. The package can be arranged as a private journey with a dedicated vehicle and guide, subject to the rules of shared park activities and ranger-led treks.
Family arrangements depend on ages, driving tolerance, lodge policies, and minimum-age rules for specific activities. Share children’s ages before booking so suitable alternatives can be planned.
The guide adjusts timing or sequence where possible. Safety, official permit times, park instructions, and road conditions take priority, while the team works to protect the main experiences.
The displayed figure is a starting price. A final quotation reflects exact dates, group size, room type, permit availability, accommodation level, and any requested customization.