Travel Company: Dav Safaris Website: www.davsafaris.com Email: info@davsafaris.com Tel: +256757795781 or +256701412430 Are planning a 5-day trip to Rwanda, close your eyes and picture this: You're standing in a clearing, surrounded by lush green vegetation that seems to touch the sky. We've crafted the ultimate 5-day itinerary that will take you on a journey from the vibrant streets of Kigali to the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Why 5 Days is the Ideal Duration for a Rwanda Adventure You might be wondering, "Is five days really enough time to experience Rwanda?" The answer is a resounding yes! Here's why a 5-day itinerary is perfect for your Rwandan Safari: 1. Balancing Gorilla Trekking with Cultural Experiences: Five days gives you the perfect amount of time to experience the highlight of any Rwanda trip gorilla trekking while also immersing yourself in the country's rich culture and history. You'll have time to explore Kigali, visit local communities, and still have a full day dedicated to your gorilla encounter. 2. Acclimation to Altitude: Volcanoes National Park sits at an elevation of around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Spending a day or two in Kigali before heading to the mountains allows your body to adjust to the altitude, ensuring you're in top form for your gorilla trek. 3. Exploring Kigali and Learning About Rwanda's History: Rwanda's capital, Kigali, is a fascinating city that deserves at least a full day of exploration. From the sobering Genocide Memorial to the colorful markets and trendy cafes, Kigali offers insights into Rwanda's past, present, and future. 4. Perfect Length for Combination Trips: If you're planning to explore more of East Africa, a 5-day Rwanda itinerary fits perfectly into a larger trip. It's easy to combine with a safari in Tanzania or Uganda, or even a beach getaway in Kenya or Zanzibar. 5. Comprehensive Yet Comfortable Pace: Five days allows you to see and do a lot without feeling rushed. You'll have time for early morning activities, afternoon relaxation, and evening cultural experiences – all without exhausting yourself. Getting to Rwanda: Your Journey to the Heart of Africa International Flights: The main gateway to Rwanda is Kigali International Airport (KGL). As of 2024, the airport has seen significant upgrades and now welcomes flights from major airlines including RwandAir, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Brussels Airlines, and Qatar Airways. Direct flights are available from European cities like Brussels and Amsterdam, as well as from Dubai, Doha, and several African capitals. Pro tip: Consider flying with RwandAir, the national carrier. They often have competitive rates and their growing network makes it easier to reach Kigali from various international destinations. Visa Requirements: Rwanda has made it incredibly easy for tourists to visit. As of 2024, citizens of all countries can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online through the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration website. The process is straightforward: 1. Fill out the online application form 2. Pay the visa fee (usually around USD 50) 3. Receive your visa approval letter via email 4. Present the approval letter upon arrival in Kigali Transportation Within Rwanda: Once you've landed in Kigali, you have several options for getting around: Private Transfers: Dav Safaris include private transfers in their packages. This is the most comfortable and hassle-free option, especially when traveling to Volcanoes National Park. Domestic Flights: For those short on time, RwandAir offers domestic flights to key tourist destinations like Kamembe (near Nyungwe National Park). Border Crossings: If you're combining your Rwanda trip with visits to neighboring countries, here's what you need to know: 1. Uganda: The Gatuna/Katuna border is the most commonly used crossing for those combining gorilla trekking in both countries. 2. Tanzania: The Rusumo border is your best bet if you're heading to or from the Serengeti. 3. Democratic Republic of Congo: The Gisenyi/Goma border is open but check current security situations before planning a cross-border trip. Remember, you may need separate visas for each country, so plan accordingly. When to Visit: Timing Your Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure While June to September offers the most reliable weather for gorilla trekking, there's no bad time to visit Rwanda. Each season offers its own unique experiences and advantages. Contact Our Team for more information about the 5 Days Rwanda Tour.