When you dream of Rwanda, you’re dreaming of a silverback gorilla appearing through the rainforest mist. But the Land of a Thousand Hills is so much more than a single encounter, it’s a mosaic of savannah wildlife, dense montane forests, and vibrant culture.
Choosing the right trip is the first step. Our curated Rwanda safari packages are designed by local experts to blend the bucket-list gorilla trekking experience with authentic wildlife and cultural immersion.
This page is your definitive guide to finding the best Rwanda tour packages, from short luxury escapes to comprehensive, two-week adventures that reveal every corner of this incredible country.
The backbone of any quality Rwanda safari itinerary is variety. While the gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park is the main attraction, a truly unforgettable trip combines this experience with the Big Five wildlife in Akagera National Park and the chance to track chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Hope Tours Africa specializes in flexible, private Rwanda tour packages focused purely on the local, expert-led experience.
These itineraries are focused on the ultimate bucket-list activity: gorilla trekking. They are shorter, more luxurious, and centered around Volcanoes National Park (VNP). They are perfect for travelers with limited time or those combining Rwanda with a longer East African safari.
To truly appreciate the country, our mid-range Rwanda safari packages combine the gorillas with other major parks.
These premium itineraries dive deep into the country, offering more time in each park, private photographic safaris, and exclusive community experiences. They often include relaxation time on Lake Kivu.
We believe in upfront clarity, especially regarding the single biggest cost of your trip: the Gorilla Trekking Permit.
Note: The mandatory Rwanda Gorilla Permit costs $1,500 per person per trek. This fee is non-negotiable, non-refundable, and supports vital conservation efforts. Your package cost must factor this in.
| Package Type | Duration | Estimated Price Range (Excl. Intl. Flights) | Includes |
| Gorilla Trekking Package | 3-4 Days | $3,500 – $6,500+ p.p. | 1 Gorilla Permit, Luxury/Mid-range accommodation, Private 4×4, full board. |
| Comprehensive Rwanda Wildlife Safari | 5-7 Days | $5,500 – $8,500+ p.p. | 1 Gorilla Permit, Akagera/Nyungwe entry fees, Mid-range/Luxury lodging, all activities. |
| Grand Rwanda Tour | 8+ Days | $8,000 – $15,000+ p.p. | Multiple permits, Premium lodging, all parks, private guides, Lake Kivu stay. |
How Long Should I Spend on a Rwanda Safari?
For a gorilla-only trip, 3 days is the minimum. For a balanced experience that includes wildlife and chimpanzees, we strongly recommend a minimum of 7 days. The drives between Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, Nyungwe, and Akagera are beautiful, but they take time.
Best Time to Book Your Rwanda Tour Package
Rwanda is an excellent year-round destination. The best time is during the two dry seasons:
Long Dry Season: June to September (Peak Season—book permits 6+ months ahead).
Short Dry Season: December to February. The wetter seasons (March-May and October-November) offer beautiful green landscapes and easier permit availability.
Safety & Travel Tips from a Local Expert
Rwanda is renowned as one of Africa’s safest and most welcoming nations. The roads are excellent and the people are warm.
Safety: The country is incredibly stable. Our guides are trained in first aid and safe driving.
Tipping: Tipping guides, drivers, and porters is customary and much appreciated.
Permits: Book your permits first. As a local operator, we secure your gorilla trekking permits the moment you confirm your package.
Choosing a local Rwandan tour operator means your money directly supports the communities you visit. We don’t just sell Rwanda safari packages we deliver a deeply personal, responsible, and expert-led experience.
Unrivaled Local Knowledge: Our guides grew up near the parks. They know the animals, the history, and the people in a way no foreign operator can match.
Permit Guarantee: We handle the complex gorilla permit process for you, securing your spot in advance.
Ready to Track the Silverbacks Gorilla?
Your life-changing journey starts here. Whether you seek a short Rwanda gorilla tour package or a lengthy safari itinerary through all three national parks, we are ready to design your perfect trip.
What is the cost of a 7-day Rwanda safari package?
A mid-range 7-day Rwanda safari package that includes one gorilla trekking permit (a mandatory $1,500 cost) and visits to Akagera and Nyungwe typically costs between $5,500 and $8,500 per person, depending on your choice of accommodation and number of included activities.
Is Rwanda safe for tourists and gorilla trekking?
Yes, Rwanda is widely considered one of the safest countries in Africa. The government places a high priority on tourism security. Gorilla trekking itself is strictly regulated, and you will be accompanied by armed park rangers and expert guides at all times.
Can I do a Rwanda safari without gorilla trekking?
Absolutely. While the gorillas are the highlight, our Rwanda tour packages for Akagera National Park offer exceptional Big Five viewing (including lions and rhino), and Nyungwe Forest is perfect for chimpanzee tracking and the famous Canopy Walk.
How far in advance do I need to book my gorilla permit?
Due to high demand and the limited number of permits (only 96 are issued daily), you should book your Rwanda gorilla permit at least 4 to 6 months in advance, especially if traveling during the peak dry seasons (June to September).
What is the difference between a Rwanda Tour Package and a Rwanda Safari Package?
For Rwanda, the terms are largely interchangeable. A Rwanda safari package generally emphasizes wildlife viewing (gorillas, chimps, Big Five), while a Rwanda tour package may place more focus on cultural activities, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and city experiences. We blend both into our itineraries.