Ultimate Guide to your Next Rwanda Safari
The “Land of a Thousand Hills”, Rwanda will captivate you with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture. From the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park to the serene shores of Lake Kivu, the country offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Rwanda is famous for its conservation efforts, particularly for protecting the endangered mountain gorillas, making it a prime destination for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Volcanoes National Park is the jewel in Rwanda’s crown, inviting you on an unforgettable gorilla trekking safari. Trek through the verdant bamboo forest and have a face to face encounter with the gentle giants in their natural habitat, looking eyes with mountain gorillas is an experience like no other.
Rwanda’s allure extends beyond its beautiful primates including chimpanzees and other12 primate species in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Explore Akagera National Park and its abundant wildlife, relax by the serene waters of Lake Kivu, and immerse yourself in Kigali’s charm as it pioneers the African Renaissance. A safari in Rwanda transcends the ordinary, awakening your senses and inviting you to discover a destination that speaks to your soul in unexpected and profound ways.
Why Visit Rwanda?
- Gorilla Trekking Haven – Volcanoes National Park offer unparalleled encounters with endangered mountain gorillas
- Biodiversity Beyond Gorillas – Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to chimpanzees and other rare primates, while Akagera National Park features savannah wildlife
- Scenic Beauty – The rolling green hills, volcanic peaks, and serene lakes define Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes
- Luxurious & Sustainable Tourism – High-end lodges provide an exclusive, eco-friendly experience.
- Safe & Welcoming – With its reputation as one of Africa’s safest and cleanest countries, Rwanda offers seamless travel experiences.
Where to Go in Rwanda
Explore Rwanda’s beautiful destinations, from the misty Volcanoes National Park to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu.
Akagera National Park
The only savannah park in Rwanda, Akagera National Park encompassing savannah, woodland and wetlands offers a classic safari adventure in Rwanda. Home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, cape buffaloes, elephants and rhinos and the scenic landscapes along the Akagera River, make Akagera a great destination for a Rwanda Safari.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Dubbed as the primate capital of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to 13 primate species including a huge population of chimpanzees. Delve in to the ancient forest of Nyungwe, a primate haven and exotic birds, and experience the thrilling canopy walk for breathtaking views.
Kigali
Known for its cleanliness, safety, and burgeoning culinary serene, Kigali – the capital of Rwanda is a modern and well-tended city that sprawls across a series of hills and valleys.
Lake Kivu
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Kivu, surrounded by rolling hills. Relax on the serene beaches, explore lakeside towns, and savor the unique culture along the largest lake in Rwanda. Lake Kivu provides a tranquil retreat with its crystal-clear waters, scenic shorelines, and opportunities for water-based activities.
Volcanoes National Park
Home to mountain gorillas and the location of the film “Gorillas in the Mist”, the iconic Volcanoes National Park is the most iconic destination in Rwanda, named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda
The verdant rainforests blanketing the land in Rwanda, beckons travelers to have the adventure of a lifetime tracking primates in their natural habitat. The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry season, when the trekking paths are easier to navigate.
Rwanda’s only savannah and Big Five park, Akagera National Park is also best visited when rainfall is low.
Best Time
January – February / June – September – (Dry conditions)
High Season
January / June to September – (Dry conditions; coincides with northern hemisphere summer holidays)
Low Season
April and November – (Rainy conditions but fewer crowds)
Best Weather
June – September – (Low rainfall, sunny conditions, and excellent trekking conditions)
Worst Weather
- March – May / October – November – (Long and short rainy seasons causing muddy trails)
Rwanda Safari Experiences
Prepare your soul to be enchanted by the Rwanda safari experiences, where every part of the country unveils a story of resilience, beauty, and cultural richness. From the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park, where mountain gorillas roam free, to the vibrant streets of Kigali pulsating with life.
Rwanda offers a wide range of experience waiting to be explored.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Embark on a transformative journey through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park, trekking to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This awe-inspiring experience allows for a deep connection with these majestic creatures, observing their behaviors and familial interactions in the Volcanoes National Park.
Game Safari in Akagera National Park
Nothing beats seeing the Big Five: elephants, Cape buffalo, Lions, Leopard and Rhinoceros. A game safari in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see some of Africa’s most famous animals and get close to some of the vibrant ecosystems.
Every game safari in Akagera National Park comes with an experience guide who knows the area and wildlife inside and out
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Trek through the forests of Nyungwe Forest National Park for an amazing chance to see these lively animals up close to the chimpanzees and see how they live, play, and even hunt. You will hear their calls and feel like you are part of their world for a little while.
A chimpanzee safari in Rwanda is perfect for anyone who loves animals and adventure.
Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema
Embark on a serene boat safari on Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park. Cruise along the tranquil waters, encountering hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of birdlife.
A boat cruise on Lake Ihema provides an intimate encounter with Rwanda’s diverse wildlife against the backdrop of the lake’s picturesque landscapes.
Cultural Encounters in Musanze
Engage with the local communities in Musanze, fostering a cultural immersion into Rwandan traditions. Explore the vibrant markets, share meals with locals, and witness traditional performances. This authentic experience in Musanze offers profound insights into Rwanda’s rich cultural tapestry.
Popular Safari Tours In Rwanda
Join our most popular safaris in Rwanda, featuring incredible gorilla trekking and picturesque landscapes.
- 7 Days Rwanda Safari
- 8 Days Rwanda Luxury Safari
- 6 Days Rwanda Primate Safari
- 10 Days Rwanda Adventure
Safari Lodges, Tented Camps and Villas in Rwanda
Wilderness Bisate – Rwanda Volcanoes National Park
Located in the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone and boasts dramatic views of the peaks of the volcanoes – Bisate and Karisoke, Wilderness Bisate has six luxurious en-suite Forest Villas maximizing comfort and views, while retaining environmental principles and reflecting the culture of rural Rwanda.
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge – Volcanoes National Park
Positioned on the foothills of the Virunga Volcano Range, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge boasts breathtaking views of Rwandan hills and the slopes of the Volcanoes National Park.
On your stay, you get to share the mountain gorilla’s family space, soak up the serenity found in nature and be a part of the private lives of the abundant primates in this magnificent country.
One & Only Nyungwe House – Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nestled on the edge of the vast and ancient Nyungwe Rainforest, within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation. One & Only Nyungwe House in Rwanda offers guests the opportunity to go where few have gone before, with once-in-a-lifetime experiences in one of the world’s most exceptional natural locations.
