Explore one of Africa’s most underrated destinations, Rwanda, on this 11-day luxury experience in June 2027.
You’ll soak up the warm African sun, marvel at magnificent mountain scenery, and experience the culture of Kigali.
If you prefer not to do the gorilla trek at Volcanoes National Park, that option is available in the booking section.
The Food
Rwandan cuisine is hearty, straightforward, and centered on fresh, locally grown ingredients. Staples include bananas, sweet potatoes, cassava, beans, corn, plantains, and potatoes, while grilled or stewed meats, particularly beef, goat, and chicken, are common.
Tilapia and other freshwater fish also feature in meals, especially around Lake Kivu. One of the country’s best-known dishes is isombe, cassava leaves cooked with ground peanuts and often served with meat or fish, while brochettes, skewers of grilled meat or goat, are a popular street food and restaurant staple.
Meals are often accompanied by fresh vegetables, avocado, or fried plantains, and Rwanda’s growing coffee and tea industries also play an important role in its food culture.
During this trip, you’ll sample various local foods and participate in a fantastic mix of cultural experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Benefits of attending the trip:
- explore an exciting destination
- have enriching social and cultural experiences
- taste local cuisine you won’t find at home
- break free from everyday routines
- create time for yourself
- enjoy quality time at an under-the-radar African destination
Itinerary Overview
May 28 – May 31, 2027 (Kigali)
May 28: Depart the US for Kigali, Rwanda. Kigali is Rwanda’s capital and largest city. It’s one of the cleanest and most modern cities in Africa. Visitors can explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, lively neighborhoods and markets, contemporary art and dining, and cultural experiences highlighting Rwandan traditions, entrepreneurship, and specialty coffee.
May 29: Arrive at Kigali International Airport and transfer to your hotel for three nights. Those in the group interested in spa treatment will have a relaxing massage, depending on your arrival time. The cost of the spa treatment is not included in the rates but can be scheduled in advance.
May 30: After breakfast, do a morning visit to Quest Coffee for a coffee masterclass. In the afternoon, head to Nyamirambo Women’s Center for a walking tour of the Nyamirambo neighborhood, the oldest and most vibrant district in Kigali. Meals: Breakfast
May 31: In the morning, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial with a private guide. In the afternoon, tour the Hôtel des Mille Collines, popularized by the film Hotel Rwanda. Meals: Breakfast
June 1 – June 3 (Volcanoes Region)
The Volcanoes Region in northwestern Rwanda has lush landscapes and Volcanoes National Park, best known for encounters with endangered mountain gorillas. Aside from gorilla trekking, visitors can experience golden monkey treks, conservation and cultural experiences, scenic hikes, and some of Rwanda’s most luxurious lodges.
June 1: Transfer by road to the Volcanoes Region for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure. Meals. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
June 2: Those who purchased the package with the mountain gorilla trek will have an all-day excursion. All others will do the Dian Fossey conservation experience. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
June 3: Participate in an experience at Azizi Life in Kinigi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
June 4 – June 6 (Lake Kivu)
Lake Kivu is a scenic freshwater lake stretching along Rwanda’s western border. It’s surrounded by lush hills and waterfront towns and offers a relaxing contrast to the country’s wildlife and cultural adventures. Visitors come for lakefront resorts, spa time, swimming, kayaking, boat cruises, and spectacular sunsets over the water.
June 4: Transfer via road to Lake Kivu for three nights. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
June 5: Enjoy a day of celebration, starting with a morning individual and group photo shoot with professional makeup application. In the early evening, enjoy a chef-led gourmet birthday dinner at the hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
June 6: Morning free at the hotel. Optional kayaking excursion on the lake (cost not included). In the evening, take a sunset cruise on Lake Kivu. Meals: Breakfast
June 7 – June 8
June 7: Transfer by road to Kigali for one night. Convene for one last dinner together during this trip (cost of dinner not included). Meals: Breakfast
June 8: Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your flight home. Meals: Breakfast
Vaccines and Visas
- Rwanda: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/rwanda
Links to visa applications
Visit these pages to complete your entry visas online.
- Rwanda: https://www.rwandainusa.gov.rw/services/service-details/visa-1usa
Payments and Cancellation Policy
Payments are non-refundable. Please review our Terms and Conditions.
Rates and Deposit Policy
Payments will be automatically billed each month and are non-refundable. If booking two people together, please replace “1” with “2” on the checkout page to ensure the proper booking for the retreat.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect your trip against unforeseen circumstances.
Double occupancy means that you will be sharing a room with another person. Single occupancy means that you will not share a room with anyone else.
Double occupancy rates:
- The price of the 11-day/10-night Rwanda trip with gorilla trek is $6,395 per person based on double occupancy.
- The price of the 11-day/10-night Rwanda trip without gorilla trek is $4,895 per person based on double occupancy.
Inclusions
- 10 nights in luxury accommodations
- Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners
- Private guides
- Activities as described
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Ground transportation
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Meals not described
- Tips and porterage
- Vaccinations
- Entry visas
- Incidental costs
- Travel insurance
Ready to book your spot? Select a package and payment plan below.
