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Home » Rwanda National Parks – National Parks in Rwanda

Rwanda National Parks – National Parks in Rwanda

In need of a perfect paradise to explore in Africa?! Rwanda National Parks and Wildlife Reserves in the different corners of the country are the perfect and ultimate paradise and treasure trove for adventure enthusiasts to explore in the African continent in a single trip.

There are only four Rwanda national parks overseen by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), a government agency. They are renowned for their breathtaking natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and abundant fauna, including birds, among all African national parks in the world.

These parks are dedicated to the conservation of endangered fauna and play a vital role in promoting the country's tourism industry as they offer perfect opportunities for tourists to see the wild game.

The country, officially the Republic of Rwanda, is a small yet vibrant landlocked country with a total area of approximately 26,338 square kilometers (10,169 square miles) almost the size of the USA state of Vermont nestled in East Africa region, sharing borders with Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

This nation is also referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” because most of the land and country's breathtaking scenery is covered with rolling hills.

These parks also offer one a chance to partake in several activities like gorilla trekking at Volcano Park, tree canopy walks, and chimp safaris in Nyungwe forest, etc.

The most famous national parks in Rwanda that are visited all year round are listed below.

Stunning Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts amongst Rwanda National Parks. It features five dormant Virunga volcanoes in the Virunga massif ranges, rugged slopes, lush vegetation, and stunning summits that act as habitats for vast mammals and bird types.

This is the only park with Mountain gorillas in the country therefore, it is the perfect spot for gorilla safaris.

Where is Volcanoes National Park located?

This park, situated in northwestern Rwanda’s Musanze district, covers 62 square miles (160 sq km) and is a top tourist attraction that the government plans to expand further, offering breathtaking scenery and exciting safari experiences.

The gorilla park is bordered by two neighboring parks: Virunga Mountains Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.

Volcanoes National Park: History

Volcano Park, established in 1925, was one of Africa’s first national parks, created to protect critically endangered mountain gorillas.

The park’s borders were expanded in 1929 to form Albert National Park, covering 8,090 km2. However, some areas were later cleared for human settlement and pyrethrum production.

Renowned primatologist Dian Fossey worked tirelessly to protect mountain gorillas from 1967 until she died in 1985. The Rwandan government is currently planning to expand the park’s area.

Top Tourist Attractions in The Volcanoes Park;

mountain gorilla of volcanoes national park

  1. Endangered Mountain Gorillas
  2. Other primates and game life such as several big cats, blue monkeys, black-fronted duikers, L’Hoest’s monkeys, bush pigs, golden monkeys, forest elephants, African golden cats, spotted hyenas, etc.
  3. Musanze Caves
  4. Buhanga Eco Park
  5. Dian Fossey Grave
  6. Karisoke Research Centre
  7. Virunga Volcano Summits
  8. Twin Lakes
  9. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
  10. Birds (over 180 types with 17 being native to the Albertine Rift and 13 natives to the Virunga Mountain ranges)

Please note the bird checklist for Bird enthusiasts on Rwanda trips to spot in the park includes, the Red-faced woodland warbler, Handsome francolin, African long-eared owl, Baglafecht weaver, Ruwenzori turaco, Dusky turtle dove, Scarlet-tufted sunbird, Common stonechat, and Ruwenzori Batis etc.

Interesting Tourist Activities Done in This Park;

  • Mountain Gorilla Trekking safaris
  • Gorilla Habituation Experiences
  • Golden Monkey Trekking
  • Volcano Climbing and Hiking
  • Twin Lakes Exploration
  • Cultural Village Tours
  • Birdwatching safaris
  • Photography
  • Paying tribute at Dian Fossey’s grave
  • Guided Nature Walks
  • Adventure Sports

Please note that some of these activities can only be taken after acquiring the necessary permits from the Rwanda Development Board a government agency, through tour operators or park authorities while on Rwandan Safaris.

Rwanda Volcanoes National Park Safari Lodges

Travelers on Rwanda safari holidays in this park can stay at some of the lodging options located in, out, and near the park including; Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Volcanoes Hotel, Mountain Gorilla Nest Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.

Others are Da Vinci Lodge, Buffalo Mountain Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Villa Gorilla Hotel, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Hotel Muhabura, One and Only Gorilla’s Nest, Amakoro Songa Lodge, and Kinigi Guest House, among others.

Tourists can book these in advance to avoid disappointments through licensed tour companies.

When to Visit Rwanda Volcanoes National Park

Open all year round, but Volcano Park is best visited during the dry seasons of December to March and June to September, which are the peak seasons characterized by good weather conditions ideal for most tourism outdoor activities such as mountain gorilla trekking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. done on wild safaris in the nation.

Volcano Park in Rwanda has a cold and wet climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C during the day to 7°C at night.

Tourists should pack essential items such as waterproof hiking shoes, warm clothing, garden gloves, rain gear, insect repellent, and energy-rich snacks to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable safari.

Please note that for travelers interested in low-budget tours, the wet season is the best time to explore following the guidance of a reputable tour company or park guides.

The uniqueness of Rwanda Volcanoes National Park

Some of the things that make this park unique from other Rwanda national parks are the presence of,

  1. The large Mountain gorilla population (10 habituated mountain gorilla families)
  2. Volcanic landscapes (it is home to five dormant volcanoes Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, Sabyinyo, and Karisimbi)
  3. Diverse game life and avian life (home to Africa’s big seven, Rwenzori turaco and the Rwenzori Apalis)
  4. The highest peak in the country the Virunga Mountain range Karisimbi is found in this park (peak of 14,787 ft above sea level)
  5. A unique diverse ecosystem with varied vegetation (bamboo, tropical montane, thickets, meadows, wetlands, grasslands, and dense rainforests) that is a natural habitat for several faunas.
  6. Cultural significance as it is home to the Batwa people
  7. Conservation efforts spearheaded by former poachers
  8. Research opportunities (the biggest gorilla research facility is found in the park, Karisoke Research Centre)

Contact Prime Safaris and Tour Ltd for an unforgettable safari adventure and witness the majestic mountain gorillas up close. Book now for a treasure of a lifetime!

Amazing Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, one of the largest national parks in Rwanda and the biggest protected areas created in 1934 spans 1,122 sq km with altitudes of approximately 1,200 to 1,800 meters (3,937 to 5,906 feet) above sea level and features a diverse range of landscapes, providing natural habitats for a wide variety of wildlife and bird types.

It derives its beautiful name from the great Akagera River running through the park, and an affluent of Lake Victoria in Uganda.

This savannah Park is positioned in eastern Rwanda, sharing a border with Tanzania, and spans three districts Ngoma (formerly Kibungo), Rwamagana, and Kayonza.

Of all the national parks in the nation, this is the only one wholly covered by the savannah ecosystem and the only park housing the Big Five.

Famous for its conservation success story of reintroducing black rhinos and lions with the support of the APN, Rwanda Development Board, and local villages, it has set a standard for game safari destinations.

Where is Akagera National Park located?

Akagera Park is located in the Kibungu district, situated in the northeastern part of Rwanda, near the border with Tanzania. The park is accessible by car, with a three-hour drive from Kigali city, or by charter plane, which offers a convenient and scenic alternative for tourists.

What is the history of Akagera National Park?

Akagera Park was designated a national park in 1934, but poaching led to a significant decline in wildlife populations.

Conservation efforts and a 20-year management agreement in 2009 between Akagera management company, RDB, and the African park network, have contributed to a steady increase in game life populations.

Although the park lost its wild dog population to an epidemic and black rhinos to poaching, reintroduction efforts from 2015 to 2021 have brought back lions, white and eastern black rhinos, and other breeds.

As a result, Akagera Park has experienced a remarkable resurgence in-game life populations and a growth in tourist visits, making it a thriving destination for Rwanda safari trips.

The Most Fascinating Tourist Attractions in Akagera Park;

akagera-national-park
These are things to see while on a wilderness safari in Rwanda’s Akagera Park,

  1. The Big Five (Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Cape Buffalos, and Rhinoceros)
  2. Other animals like Antelopes (Impala, Kudu, Bushbuck, Oribi, and Duiker), Reticulated Giraffes, Zebras, Rhinos, Big cats, serval cats, bush babies, giant genets, hyenas, etc.
  3. Aquatic life (Hippopotamus, Nile Crocodiles)
  4. Avian life (approximately 480 species, including 100 exclusives to the park, such as the African fish eagle, Caspian plover, Martial Eagle, Western reef heron, and other unique species like the Double-toothed barbet, Blue-shouldered robin chat, Red-winged francolin, White-browed coucal, and Black-headed gonolek, Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, Saddle-billed Stork)
  5. Water sources (Lake Ihema, Lake Rwanyakazinga, Lake Shakani)
  6. Mount Mutumba (highest point in the park)
  7. Akagera River (that empties in Lake Victoria in Uganda)
  8. Muyaga Falls
  9. Vegetation such as the Akagera Forest, savannah plains, etc.

Some of the things to do when visiting the park;

  • Wildlife spotting
  • Game drives
  • Boat cruises
  • Fishing
  • Birding safaris
  • Cultural experiences
  • Hiking and climbing

Please note that some of these activities can only be taken after acquiring the necessary permits from the RDB through tour operators or park authorities and paying activity fees.

Akagera National Park Accommodation

Tourists visiting Akagera NP can stay at some of these accommodation options that offer the best amenities and scenic views of surrounding landscapes of hills, Lake Kivu, etc. such as Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, Lemigo Hotel, Lake Shakani Campsite, Karenge Bush Camp, Shakani Akagera campsite, Dereva Hotel, Muyumba Campsite, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, and Magashi Safari Camp among others.

It is important to consult the Rwanda tour operator for the best and most affordable options to be booked in advance as costs vary.

The best time to Visit Akagera National Park

This can be visited all year round but the best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry seasons (June-August and December-February) for perfect weather and outdoor activities done on Rwanda wildlife safaris.

Travelers are advised to avoid wet seasons, if possible, but guided visits are still possible with precautions and guidance from park authorities or tour operators.

The uniqueness of Akagera National Park

This park is considered one of the unique tourist places in Rwanda because;

  1. Diverse landscapes and habitats (savannah grasslands, papyrus swamps, montane thickets, and one of the largest protected wetlands)
  2. Wildlife (including the Big Five, olive baboons, monkeys, bush babies, etc.)
  3. Waterways (Lake Ihema, L. Rwanyakazinga, Akagera River)
  4. Avian life (Senegal lapwings, eagles, long toed lapwing, giant kingfisher, African darter, Vieillot’s black weavers, pied crow, etc.)
  5. Recognition as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International makes it a tourism hotspot
  6. Successful conservation efforts and reintroduction programs (of endangered animals such as the black rhinos, lions, and rare birds like rare Shoebill stock) and is part of the International Gorilla Conservation Program.
  7. It’s worth noting that Akagera imported seven lions from South Africa to reintroduce them in the nation.
  8. Status as Rwanda’s only savanna national park also makes it unique
  9. Strategic location (it is part of the East African Rift Valley)
  10. Easy Accessibility (it is accessed from Kigali and through taking a chartered flight from Akagera Aviation Company and Airstrip)
  11. This park is also known for having seven major lakes i.e. Lake Ihema, Lake Shakani, Lake Hago, Lake Mahindi, Lake Kivimba, Lake Rwanyakazinga, and Lake Murambi, each offering unique opportunities for exploration and safaris.

Book your next vacation with us Prime Safaris and Tour Ltd and enjoy this must-see adventure gem during safari holidays in the country!

Nyungwe Forest National Park (The Canopy Walk Paradise)

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s largest and oldest protected areas. Established in 1903, it covers 1,000 square kilometers in the southwest region of the country.

In this space, this biodiversity hotspot packs approximately 1068 plant varieties, 13 monkey breeds, and over 300 bird species.

The park’s elevation ranges from 1600 to 2950 meters, with Mount Bigugu being the highest point.

As a significant source of the Nile River, Nyungwe offers unique hiking, bush walks, and biking trails, including the renowned Congo-Nile trail, making it a premier destination for chimp tours and hiking in East and Central Africa.

The park is home to Nyungwe forest which is one of the most ancient tropical rainforests in Africa, with roots stretching back an astonishing 8 million years and the last of remaining alpine forests in the African continent.

It is comprised of thick canopies, huge trees, and cloud thickets among other flora which act as natural habitats for a huge range of fauna.

Where is Nyungwe Forest National Park located?

Nyungwe Park is situated in the southwestern part of Rwanda, in the Rusizi region, specifically in the town of Cyangugu, near the border with Burundi and south of Lake Kivu.

History of Nyungwe Park

Nyungwe NP evolved from a national reserve (1933) to a national park (2004) and was later managed by African Parks (2020) and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2023), ensuring its conservation and protection.

Attractions in Nyungwe Forest National Park;

Uganda Rwanda Safaris

  1. Nyungwe and Cyamudongo Forests (tropical rainforest, cloud thickets, bamboo, swamp, mushroom, primary and secondary forests)
  2. Diverse Bird Species (such as hornbills, endangered Ruwenzori apalis, Yellow-eyed Black flycatchers, Rockefeller’s sunbird, Stripe-breasted tit, Red-collared babbler, Bar-tailed trogon, Albertine owlet, Regal Sunbird, Mountain masked apalis, Purple-breasted sunbird, and African hill babbler, among others)
  3. Other Primates (large population of Chimps, golden monkeys, L’hoest monkeys, colobus monkeys, mangabeys, owl-faced monkeys, Rwenzori colobus, olive baboons, grey-chipped mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, silver monkeys, Dent’s Mona monkeys, vervet monkeys)
  4. Other animals like big cats, spotted hyenas, etc.
  5. Waterfalls (Kamiranzovu Waterfall)
  6. Rivers (Nyungwe River, Kagitumba River, Gisakura River, Kagera River which pour in Lake Victoria)
  7. Picturesque Views of Rolling hills and landscapes

Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park;

  1. Nyungwe Canopy Walk (popular tourist activity)
  2. Hiking and trekking tours
  3. Birdwatching safaris
  4. Primate tracking safaris (chimpanzee, colobus monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys)
  5. Waterfall hikes
  6. Cultural tours
  7. Photography
  8. Woodland Ecology studies and conservation efforts

Please note that some of these activities can only be taken after paying activity fees or acquiring the necessary permits from the Rwanda Development Board through tour operators or park authorities while on Rwanda tours.

Accommodation and Hotels in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Tourists visiting this park can stay at some of these hotels or accommodation options that include, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Uwinka Visitor Center, Nyungwe Top View Hotel, Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel, Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge, Kitabi Eco-Center, Gisakura guest house, Gisakura Eco-Lodge, One and Only Nyungwe Resort, Chimpanzee Lodge, Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort, Gisakura Family Hostel, Camping sites, etc.

These also offer stunning views of beautiful landscapes such as L. Kivu, rolling hills, etc.

Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons through licensed tour companies is highly recommended.

The Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park

This park can be visited all year round but the best time is during the dry season (June to September and December to February) for clearer views and perfect weather conditions for birding safaris, golden monkey tracking, chimpanzee safaris, etc.

Rain falling in this park is very common so you are encouraged to pack essential items such as waterproof hiking shoes, long-sleeved clothes, rain jackets, garden gloves, and plenty of drinking water.

Visitors interested in visiting during the rainy season need to consult the park authorities, or reputable tour operators for guidance.

The uniqueness of Nyungwe National Park

Some of the unique features that set this place apart from other parks of Rwanda are;

  1. It has one of the oldest alpine rainforests in Africa covering over 1,000 square kilometers.
  2. The park is home to a huge array of flora, including over 200 types of huge trees and canopies that act as natural habitats for faunas
  3. It is home to several fauna such as birds (hornbills, turacos, and sunbirds), over 100 breeds of mammals and other primates (chimps, silver monkeys, colobus monkeys, mangabeys), butterflies, etc.
  4. Nyungwe National Park is the best and largest habitat for over 500 chimpanzees and 25% of the monkey population in Africa.
  5. The park features a unique combination of geological formations such as granite and sandstone rocks among others, that create distinctive landscapes.
  6. It is home to several beautiful waterfalls and rivers, including the Kamiranzovu Waterfall and the Nyungwe River
  7. Nyungwe National Park stands out as an ADA-accessible park of all the national parks, boasting wheelchair-friendly trails, walkways, restrooms, and ramps near accommodation facilities, ensuring an inclusive experience for visitors with disabilities.
  8. The park is invested in conservation and has hired former poachers to spearhead these efforts

For adventure seekers, Nyungwe Park is the ultimate wilderness safari destination. Book your next vacation now with Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd.

Gishwati Mukura National Park

This Park is the fourth and newest conservation area opened in 2020 and is one of the top four national parks in the nation, which covers a total area of 34.4 sq km (13.3 sq mi), divided into a smaller Mukura and larger Gishwati forest.

The Park was established to focus on conservation and community development as locals even have cooperative groups aimed at promoting local tourism.

The Park is famous for its diverse plants or flora (bamboo and mixed woodlands), supporting vast fauna and local communities through sustainable tourism and eco-friendly initiatives.

Gishwati Park is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, featuring 126 bird types, 14 Albertine endemics, and 250 plant varieties.

Location of Gishwati

Located in the western province, the stunning park is situated near Karongi and Rubavu, approximately 85 kilometers west of Kigali city, making it an easily accessible travel destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Attractions Found in Gishwati-Mukura Park;

Giswati mukura national park rwanda

  1. Primates (eastern chimpanzees, Golden monkeys, L’hoest Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys, Olive Baboons, mountain monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Black and White colobus monkeys)
  2. Avian Species (endangered grey crowned crane, Red-winged Francolin, Ruwenzori Turaco, Weaver birds, Sunbirds, Hoopoe, purple-breasted sunbird, martial eagle, francolin, dusky crimson wing, and Archer’s ground robin)
  3. Hiking and trekking trails (Gishwati Trail)
  4. Waterfalls (Gishwati Waterfall)
  5. Rehabilitation and conservation efforts
  6. Gishwati and Mukura tree canopies
  7. Game animals (African civet, serval, side-stripped jackal, and servaline genet)

Tourism Activities in this Park;

  1. Chimpanzee trekking
  2. Golden monkey trekking
  3. Waterfall hike
  4. Birdwatching safaris
  5. Nature walks
  6. Game viewing
  7. Community Visits
  8. Adventure Sports eg Biking

Accommodation in And Near This Park

Visitors exploring this national park can stay at Gishwati Lodge the only lodge inside the park or book lodgings outside and near the park such as Hill View Hotel, Gishwati Lodge, Golden Monkey Hotel, Peace Guest Hotel, Rushel Kivu Resort, the Palm Beach Resort, Emeraude Kivu Resort, Nyungwe Top View Hotel, Cormoran Lodge among others with stunning views of surrounding landscapes such as lake Kivu and other rolling hills.

Travelers are encouraged to book these in advance to avoid disappointment as the lodging options near the park and inside are very limited.

The Best Time to Visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park

This national park can be visited throughout the year in both the wet and dry seasons but the best time to visit to partake in most outdoor activities is during the drier months of June to September and December to February as they offer clear views of the blue skies, cool temperatures perfect for tourism.

Additionally, it can also be visited during the wet season for some specific activities such as birding but under the guidance of tour operators or park authorities as the trails can be muddy and slippery.

Unique Aspects Related to Mukura Park

This new national park has several unique aspects that make it stand out from the rest of Rwanda’s national parks and these are;

  • Successful rehabilitation and conservation efforts following its previous degradation and deforestation status
  • It is a popular Chimpanzee habitat with trekking and tracking opportunities
  • Diverse vegetation comprising bamboo, wood, endemic plants, and rare montane plus sub-montane forests such as the Rwanda Waterfall Tree, Gishwati Mukura Waterfall Tree, Scarce Spider-Plant, etc.
  • It is home to major water bodies important to local communities and wildlife (Sebeya and Muvumba rivers)
  • Biodiversity hotspot with many endemic and threatened bird species in the Albertine Rift such as Handsome Francolin, Strange Weaver, African grey parrots, endangered Shelley’s Crimsonwing, and Papyrus Gonolek among others
  • It is a natural habitat for fauna such as endangered chimpanzees, golden monkeys, Black and White Colobus Monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, among others
  • Ecotourism activities are offered in this park like hiking, birdwatching, and chimpanzee trekking which make it unique
  • The park is involved in Carbon offsetting initiatives which involve extracting dangerous gases like methane gas into energy aimed at mitigating climate change.
  • It has Research and monitoring programs at the Shinehouse Gishwati Research Station aimed at promoting the conservation of endangered species.

This hidden gem offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure and is a must-see for tourists visiting the country!

Other Tourist Places and Attractions in Rwanda

Besides the national parks in this nation, there are other tourist places that travelers explore while on safari holidays such as:

  1. Kigali City (the capital city of Rwanda home to interesting places)
  2. Genocide Memorials (such as Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Ntarama Genocide Memorial Site, Nyamata Genocide Memorial Site, etc.)
  3. Water sources (such as Lake Kivu that are used for water sports, fishing, and relaxation)
  4. Volcanoes and Mountains (Virunga Mountains i.e. Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, etc.)
  5. Cultural Villages (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Agashya Cultural Village, etc.)
  6. Museums (the National Museum of Rwanda, King’s Palace Museum, the Rwandan Art Museum, etc.)
  7. Vibrant Markets (such as Kimironko Market)
  8. Hot Springs (natural hot springs of Nyungwe i.e. Gisakura Hot Springs, Nyungwe Hot Springs, Uwinka Hot Springs, and those in Kivu Belt)
  9. Coffee and Tea Plantations (Kivu Coffee and Pfunda Tea Estate, Gisakura Tea Plantation, Gisovu Tea Plantation and Estate, etc.)

Travelers can explore these places and attractions while on Rwanda safaris in the parks of the country.

What To Wear for Safaris in Rwanda Parks? /Clothing

These are some of the attires and clothing visitors are strongly encouraged to carry;

  • Hiking boots/sturdy shoes
  • Warm clothes (linen or moisture-wicking but not colored)
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Insulating layers (fleece, wool, scarfs or neck gaiter)
  • Long trousers and water-resistant pants
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Warm hat and gloves (gardening gloves)
  • Quick-drying socks
  • Extra underwear

Activity Gears

Tourists sure of partaking in tourist activities ought to carry gear often used in Rwanda activities such as

  • Waterproof Backpack
  • Water bottle
  • Lunch box
  • Walking stick or hiking stick (optional)
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Camera and charger or extra batteries (optional)
  • Reusable bag for carrying essentials

What To Pack for Rwanda Park Safaris? /Personal Essentials

For personal essentials and utilities, visitors are advised to carry some of these items for seamless trips;

  • Passport and copies with visas
  • Travel insurance documents
  • First-aid kit
  • Medications and prescriptions from recommended doctors
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent creams
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc.)
  • Contact lenses/glasses (if applicable)
  • Extra cash (preferably the Rwandan francs used for tipping and buying crafts, and souvenirs) and credit cards that are Visa enabled used for bigger purchases
  1. d)    Other Items

These are optional things a visitor may pack or not, such as;

  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, biscuits, etc.)
  • Reading material or a novel
  • Map or GPS tool
  • Portable charger for phone/camera
  • Travel pillow and eye mask (optional)

Travelers are strongly recommended to check with their Rwanda tour company or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations before embarking on this trip to avoid carrying excess luggage.

Rwanda Tour Operators

Start planning for your Rwanda safari with the best tour companies offering hassle-free and tailor-made safari packages.

  1. Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
  2. Wild Gorilla Safaris
  3. Gorilla Safari Rwanda
  4. Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
  5. Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
  6. Africa Safaris Tours

These have the best reviews online, affordable packages, and customized itineraries to the different national parks in the nation and those stretching across the Burundian border, the democratic republic of Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and other countries in East Africa, Central Africa, and the world.

Rwanda National Parks FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1.    How many national parks are in Rwanda? /How many parks are in Rwanda? /Which game park is found in Rwanda?

Rwanda has four national parks namely:

  • Volcanoes National Park (known for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys)
  • Nyungwe National Park (popular for chimpanzee trekking and tree canopy walks)
  • Akagera National Park (home to the Big Five and ideal for birding safaris)
  • Gishwati-Mukura National Park (the newest park, established in 2015, and home to endangered chimpanzees)

2.    What is the most visited park in Rwanda?

The most visited park in the nation is Volcanoes National in the Virunga Massif ranges near Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda which is home to endangered mountain gorillas.

3.    What is the largest park in Rwanda? /What is the largest national park in Rwanda?

The largest national park in Rwanda is Akagera National Park, covering an area of approximately 1,122 square kilometers (433 square miles) defined by a vast savannah ecosystem located close to the Tanzania border.

4.    What are the problems facing Rwanda National Parks?

The most known problems are habitat loss especially for mountain gorillas, climate change, poaching, human-animal conflict, funding constraints, and infrastructure development, among others.

5.    What is the new national park in Rwanda?

The newest national park in Rwanda is Gishwati Mukura Park, which was established in 2015 and opened in 2020 with the sole purpose of safeguarding the critically endangered chimpanzees inhabiting the Gishwati and Mukura forests within the park that can now be seen when on Rwanda chimpanzee safaris.

  1. What are the problems facing national parks in Rwanda?

Rwanda’s national parks, despite their importance, face several problems and significant threats such as poaching, habitat encroachment, human-wildlife conflict, deforestation, human activities like agricultural expansion, illegal mining, etc. which the Rwandan government is working hard to resolve and eradicate.

  1.     Which Park is home to Africa’s Big Five?

Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s sole savannah park, is the only one that offers a unique chance to see the Big Five and diverse game animals, which makes it a premier safari destination for birdwatching safaris, animal drives, etc.

Book your next Rwanda Vacation with Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd today and explore Rwanda’s national parks and other unique spots like Lake Kivu for a memorable and unwinding safari experience!