Embark on an unforgettable 3 day journey into the heart of Rwanda’s wild beauty. A luxury helicopter safari designed for those who want to explore the country’s most iconic destination in the most exclusive and time-efficient way. Flying over the legendary “Land of a Thousand Hills,” you will witness breathtaking landscapes from the air, trek through lush rainforests in search of endangered mountain gorillas, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural wonders of Volcanoes National Park.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Scenic Helicopter Flight to Volcanoes National Park
Your luxury adventure begins as you arrive at Kigali International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your private safari driver guide. After a short briefing, you will transfer to Akagera Aviation heliport to board your scenic helicopter flight to Volcanoes National Park.
The flight lasts approximately 25 to 30 minutes, replacing a 2.5-hour road journey with a breathtaking aerial experience. Depending on availability, your helicopter may be one of the following aircraft:
- Agusta 109 or Agusta 139 – Fast, twin-engine helicopters seating 5–6 passengers, offering panoramic windows and luxurious interiors.
- Robinson R44 – A nimble, 3-passenger option ideal for couples or small groups seeking a more intimate experience.
As you soar above Rwanda’s rolling green hills, patchwork farmlands, sparkling lakes, and volcanic peaks, your pilot will provide fascinating commentary about the geography and history of the region. This is a photographer’s dream, an unmatched perspective of Rwanda’s natural beauty.
Upon arrival at the Musanze airstrip, you will be met by a lodge representative and transferred to your luxury accommodation, such as Bisate Lodge or Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the lodge’s world-class amenities, take a guided nature walk, or simply relax with a glass of wine as you take in views of the dramatic Virunga volcano range.
Overnight: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Volcanoes National Park
Today marks the highlight of your journey — an encounter with the magnificent mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for a detailed briefing with expert rangers. Here, visitors are organized into small groups of eight and assigned a specific gorilla family to track.
The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but the experience is well worth the effort. As you move through the misty bamboo forests and dense vegetation, your guide will interpret the forest’s secrets — from identifying plants to pointing out bird species and other wildlife.
Once you find the gorilla family, you are granted a precious hour to observe them in their natural habitat. Watch the dominant silverback’s powerful presence, mothers tenderly caring for their young, playful juveniles tumbling through the undergrowth, and the subtle social interactions within the group. Few wildlife experiences on Earth can match the intimacy and emotional power of this encounter.
After your trek, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening, you may choose to join an optional cultural visit to a nearby village to learn about traditional Rwandan life — from banana beer brewing and basket weaving to dancing and storytelling.
Overnight: Bisate Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Scenic Helicopter Flight Back to Kigali and Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a final view of the Virunga Mountains before transferring to the helipad for your return flight to Kigali. Your 25-minute scenic flight offers one last aerial perspective of Rwanda’s spectacular landscapes from the misty rainforests of the volcano slopes to the shimmering waters of Lake Ruhondo and Burera.
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will have time for a city tour or shopping for handcrafted souvenirs at Kimironko Market before being transferred to the airport for your international flight home with your heart and camera full of unforgettable memories.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
- Return helicopter flights between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park
- Airport transfers and ground transport in a luxury 4×4 vehicle
- Two nights’ luxury accommodation at Bisate Lodge (or similar)
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Gorilla trekking permit (secured and paid in advance)
- Services of professional English-speaking guides and rangers
- International flights and visas
- Tips, drinks, and personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary