Rwanda Safari: Gorillas, Wildlife Safaris in Rwanda & Tour Vacations

Rwanda safaris predominantly consist of gorilla safaris in Rwanda, providing an incredible opportunity of trekking gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. However, tourists that visit Rwanda can also enjoy other unforgettable safari in Rwanda experiences in this beautiful, hilly country, famously known as the Land of a Thousand Hills. The country boosts an amazing chain of Rwanda safari attractions, activities in her destinations.

Typical safaris in Rwanda often include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, an exciting canopy walk, scenic viewing, and cultural visits to local communities. Rwanda safari packages also feature wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park, where you can enjoy memorable game drives, a boat cruise, and stunning scenery.

Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park is another highlight of Rwanda safari tours. These magnificent primates are a must-see. A trip to Rwanda will also offer you unforgettable bird-watching tours in Nyungwe Forest, Volcanoes National Park, Akagera savannah, Giswati Mukula Forest, and more.

Expect a once-in-a-lifetime vacation on a Rwanda trip. An adventure in Rwanda will also allow you to explore numerous genocide memorial sites, Kigali city, and cultural encounters at Ibyiwacu Cultural Center, which are often included in popular Rwanda tour packages.

We are your experienced(Rwanda tour operator((Rwanda safari company(), ready to arrange budget or Rwanda luxury safarisfor individuals, small groups, families, and solo travelers. Contact our expert Rwanda safaris team to organize a remarkable, tailor-made Rwanda vacation

Amazing Categories of Rwanda Safaris & Tours

There are numerous amazing safaris in Rwanda and among these are:

1. Rwanda Safari Gorilla: Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda 

One of the fascinating reasons tourists visit Rwanda is for the amazing Rwanda gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park, which offer a memorable Rwanda safari encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla Trekking Tours in Rwanda

Rwanda gorilla trekking tours begin at 7 am with a briefing and usually last between 2 and 8 hours, depending on the movement of the endangered mountain gorilla group. Upon encountering the allocated Mountain Gorilla family, you’ll have a rewarding experience observing these gentle giants in their misty environment, learning about their human-like behaviors and feeding patterns.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking

For a successful Rwanda gorilla trekking experience, it’s essential to pack appropriately. The best packing list should include:

• A pair of sturdy walking boots
• A rain jacket

Costs of a 1 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Permits

Rwanda gorilla permits cost $1500, which includes the park entry fees. A 1-day gorilla tour in Rwanda costs about $1,700 per person, covering the Mountain Gorilla trekking permit, transport, and accommodation.

2. Chimpanzee Trekking Safaris in Rwanda

For a rewarding experience on your Rwanda tour, you shouldn’t miss a chimpanzee tracking tour. Rwanda chimpanzee safari expeditions offer a golden opportunity to spot chimpanzees in their spectacular natural habitat.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe National Park

During a chimpanzee tour in Nyungwe, you’ll also encounter other primates, such as L’hoest’s monkeys and red-tailed monkeys. Additionally, lovely bird species are commonly seen during the trek. Tracking chimpanzees in Nyungwe Park takes about 2–5 hours, with the highlight being an encounter with these intelligent apes, often spotted in small groups.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking

You can embark on a chimpanzee trekking safari in Nyungwe Park any time of the year, but the dry months are recommended for the best experience.

3. Golden Monkey Trekking Safaris in Rwanda

For a memorable holiday in Rwanda, a golden monkey trekking tour is often added to your mountain gorilla trekking experience.

This amazing adventure allows you to visit these gorgeous, fast-moving monkeys in their fascinating habitats. Watching the shimmering, reddish-gold-backed monkeys that dwell mostly in golden bamboo zones is a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. Visitors often spot them in large groups of over 30 individuals.

In Volcanoes National Park, there are two habituated groups of golden monkeys. Another excellent location for tracking golden monkeys is Uganda’s Mgahinga Park.

Bird-Watching Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda birding tours are gaining popularity among both locals and tourists. The country boasts over 703 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics, forest birds, and savannah species. Approximately 29 of these are Albertine endemics.

Classic bird-watching tours in Rwanda typically take place in Nyungwe National Park, but Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park are also excellent sites. Lake Kivu is ideal for spotting water birds. Some top bird species to look for include the Red-faced Woodland Warbler and the Rwenzori Turaco. Other notable species on Rwanda bird-watching tours are Red-chested Bee-eaters, Regal Sunbirds, and Red-collared Babblers.

5. Wildlife Safaris in Rwanda

Frequently, travelers coming for Rwanda wildlife safaris add a wildlife trip to their mountain gorilla trekking vacation.

Wildlife Safaris in Akagera National Park

Wildlife enthusiasts on a Rwanda wildlife safari in Akagera National Park will encounter a great number of wildlife species, including the Big Five. During wildlife tours in Akagera, you can spot lions, leopards, buffalo herds, and elephants. Black rhinos, giraffes, and zebra herds are also common sights. An afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema offers the chance to see giant Nile crocodiles and hippos submerged in the water. Wildlife tours in Akagera Park are typically conducted on a game drive.

6. Boat Cruise Rwanda Safari Tours

Boat trips are a serene way to explore Rwanda’s beautiful scenery and wildlife that can’t easily be spotted on land. Popular boat cruises take place on Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park, where large hippos and giant Nile crocodiles are common. Tourists can also take a boat trip on Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, which is a wonderful site to visit after mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

7. Rwanda Adventure Safaris

Rwanda is one of the best countries in the East African region for adventure trips. Some of the top adventure experiences include:

• Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Canopy walking in Nyungwe National Park is a cherished adventure experience worth undertaking on Rwanda holiday trips. The Nyungwe canopy walk is a 60-meter-long and 70-meter-high suspension bridge above Nyungwe Park. During this 2-hour walk, expect breathtaking views of the park and Lake Kivu, as well as sightings of beautiful primate species, bird species, and butterflies.

• Mountain Hiking Safaris in Rwanda

Volcano climbing is another memorable adventure ideal for travelers on Rwanda tours. Known as the Country of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda offers a range of hiking options. Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m) in Volcanoes National Park provides the best hiking experience. Other hiking options include Mount Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura, all part of the Virunga Mountains. A hike to the summit of Bisoke Volcano will reward you with a view of a beautiful crater lake.

8. Community & Cultural Tours in Rwanda

On top of your Rwanda vacation, undertaking a cultural tour allows you to explore the rich and unique culture of Rwanda.

8. Rwanda’s Cultural Encounters

Rwanda’s cultural encounters offer an amazing close-up experience with the lovely local people. You’ll enjoy learning about the fascinating traditions, beliefs, and cultural practices of the Rwandese.

A visit to the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village is a highlight, where you’ll enjoy vibrant traditional dances from the locals and can join in for a memorable experience.

Other cultural experiences in Rwanda include:

• Guided community walks in Batwa communities
• Visiting the King’s Palace in Nyanza
• Exploring the National Museum of Rwanda in the Huye district

9. Kigali City Tours

Many travelers add a Kigali tour to their Mountain Gorilla trekking trips in Rwanda. Kigali is one of the most organized and cleanest cities in Africa, offering a golden opportunity to explore its beauty.

A private tour is possible, with key attractions including:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial Site
• The Presidential Museum
• Wonderful craft centers
• Hotel Des Mille Collines
• Local, vibrant markets
• Nyamata Church

10. Fishing Safaris in Rwanda

Although sport fishing in Rwanda is not highly developed, anglers can still have a good time. Sport fishing is recreational, often for pleasure or competition.

Rwanda fishing safaris usually take place in Akagera National Park on lakes like Ihema and Shakani. Tilapia and Catfish are commonly caught. These fishing safaris are often done in addition to wildlife tours in Akagera Park.

11. Luxury Rwanda Safaris

Luxury Rwanda safari holidays allow you to enjoy a comfortable stay. Popular options include luxury gorilla safaris in Volcanoes National Park and luxury wildlife safaris in Akagera Park.

Travelers on luxury tours are typically transported in 4×4 safari Land Cruisers and stay in high-end lodges such as Bisate Lodge.

Best Rwanda Safari Destinations to Visit on Vacation

1. Volcanoes National Park

The lush green rainforest of Volcanoes National Park spans the Virunga region, protecting endangered Mountain Gorillas. Dian Fossey, a renowned primatologist and conservationist, studied these gorillas at the Karisoke Research Center from 1967 until her death in 1985. Her work greatly boosted Rwanda’s tourism by making these gentle giants famous worldwide.

The Karisoke Research Centre helped protect these primates and prevented poaching. Despite the challenges during the 1994 conflicts, Rwandan authorities took strict measures to restore and protect the wildlife. Today, over 300 mountain gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park, with 14 habituated gorilla family groups available for trekking.

Located in the north-western part of the country, the park features ancient volcanoes like Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabyinyo. Hiking Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke is popular, while hiking Mount Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo is best done from Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Besides Mountain Gorillas, the park is home to other wildlife such as Golden Monkeys, Hyenas, Elephants, Buffaloes, Bushbucks, and over 180 bird species.

2. Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park in Eastern Rwanda is the largest national park in the country, covering 1,122 square kilometers. Established in 1934, it features savannahs, woodlands, lakes, swamps, and montane forests. Key water bodies include the Akagera River, Lake Ihema, and Lake Shakani.

The park faced significant challenges during the Rwanda Genocide, losing many wild animals and even having over 300 lions poisoned by settlers. Despite these challenges, Akagera now protects a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five, various antelopes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 425 bird species.

3. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe National Park preserves one of Africa’s oldest, most diverse rainforests. Designated a national park in 2004, it offers stunning views of Lake Kivu and features diverse vegetation, including bamboo trees, bogs, and grasslands. It is ideal for chimpanzee tracking tours and birding safaris.

Nyungwe is home to several primate species such as chimpanzees, baboons, red-tailed monkeys, golden monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black and white colobus monkeys, silver monkeys, vervet monkeys, Angola colobus, Dent’s mona monkeys, and Hamlyn’s monkeys. The park also hosts over 280 bird species and 85 mammal species.

4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park was created by merging the Gishwati and Mukura Forests and was gazetted in 2015. The park was established to protect the forests from extinction and preserve the few remaining chimpanzees, L’hoest monkeys, blue monkeys, and golden monkeys. It is a great destination for chimpanzee tracking and other primate safaris, as well as bird-watching.

5. Kigali City

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is one of the most beautiful, clean, and organized cities in East Africa. It offers friendly culture and lovely people. A city tour includes visiting the Kigali Cultural Village, where you can discover the work of various artisans and vendors.

Lush Forests in Rwanda

Most of these forests in Rwanda boast numerous beautiful birds, primate species, and reptiles.

Commonly visited forests of Rwanda include Nyungwe, home to chimpanzees and several birds. Gishwati-Mukura can be visited also on your Rwanda safari tour

Cultural and Historical Sites in Rwanda

The most captivating cultural sites worth visiting on Rwanda holiday tours include:

• Ibyiwacu Cultural Village
• Genocide commemorative centers in Rwanda
• Nyamata church
• King’s Palace and
• The National Museum of Rwanda, etc.

Top Rwanda Safari Attractions to See on a Safari in Rwanda

Rwanda boasts several amazing attractions worth exploring during your visit.

Among the best attractions in Rwanda are:

• Lovely Primate Species in Rwanda

Rwanda is home to over 15 primate species, with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park being the most sought-after. Other primates to look for during tracking include Golden monkeys, White colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.

• Game Animals of Rwanda

Rwanda hosts a variety of game animals that attract many visitors on African safaris. Most wild animals can be spotted during a game drive or boat cruise in Akagera National Park. Notable game animals to see include Elephants, Lions, Leopards, herds of Buffalos, Zebras, Black Rhinos, and Giraffes.

• Beautiful Birds in Rwanda

Rwanda is home to approximately 703 bird species, including over 29 Albertine endemics, Lake Victoria biome species, and savannah birds. Most of these birds can be seen in Nyungwe Park.

• Stunning Volcanic Mountains

Popular volcanoes in Rwanda include Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, both part of the eight massifs of the Virunga Mountains.

• Ibyiwacu Cultural Village – The Gorilla Guardian Village

Ibyiwacu, meaning “the treasures of our home & heritage” in the Kinyarwanda dialect, is a cultural gem in Musanze. This village offers visitors an immersive experience into Rwanda’s rich cultural traditions. Enjoy traditional performances and attire, and try your hand at mat weaving and carpentry, making it a memorable addition to your itinerary.

• Nyamata Church

Located 30km south of Kigali, Nyamata Church is a poignant site that commemorates the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Over 50,000 victims are buried here, making it a significant place for reflection and remembrance. While there are several genocide memorials in Rwanda, including the frequently visited Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamata provides a deeply moving experience.

• National Museum of Rwanda

Also known as the Ethnographic Museum, this museum in Butare is a popular stopover en route to Nyungwe Park. Opened in 1989 with the support of the Belgian government, it offers a comprehensive look into Rwanda’s pre-colonial history, culture, and religion. Notably, it is also the site where Queen Dowager Rosalie Gicanda and many others were tragically murdered during the genocide.

• The King’s Palace Museum

Located in the Nyanza area, the King’s Palace Museum, designed in the shape of a beehive, provides fascinating insights into Rwanda’s traditional monarchy and cultural heritage. This museum is a testament to the country’s royal past and its enduring cultural legacy.

Rwanda Safari Activities to Do in Rwanda, Africa

In East Africa, Rwanda is among the countries offering notable safari activities worth undertaking on your African safaris!

Below are the top safari activities in Rwanda:

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is the highlight of safaris in Rwanda. It’s a remarkable adventure, giving you a chance to encountering the endangered Mountain gorillas in Rwanda.

Rwanda gorilla trekking expeditions cost $1500 but they’re worth the money. This rare adventure globally takes place in only 3 countries: Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda! Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest holds almost 50% of the wild Mountain gorillas on Earth.

In the East African region, Rwanda gorilla trekking adventures are considered to be the nearest! However, this gorilla trek can be perplexing for some people. Ensure that you raise your body’s fitness level.

Gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda specifically take place in Volcanoes park, home to over 12 habituated gorilla families and a few for research.

The 12 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park include:

Susa, Igisha, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Amahoro, Agashya, Kwitonda, Umubano, Hirwa, Bwenge, Ugyenda and

2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda

This is also one of the outstanding safari activities worth undertaking on your Mountain gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda. It’s a great adventure, giving you a chance to visit chimpanzees!

According to research, Chimpanzees have over 98–99% of man’s DNA. These intelligent apes live in groups, with a dominant alpha male in charge of each group.

3. Birdwatching in Rwanda

Although Rwanda is known for Mountain gorillas, this country is one of the bird-watching havens you must not miss on your birding trip in Africa. It’s home to over 703 birds, counting about 29 Albertine endemics.

Most of the birding tours in Rwanda are done in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera park, and around Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes.

Common birds to look for in Rwanda include Lilac-Breasted Roller, the Great Blue Turaco, etc.

4. Game Viewing in Rwanda

Taking a Rwanda wildlife safari trip on your vacation in Rwanda is the only way to explore the amazing wildlife of Rwanda. Rwanda wildlife safaris are done specifically in Akagera Park, home to the Big Five, among other animals and birds.

5. Cultural Experiences in Rwanda

Notable cultural encounters in Rwanda include visiting Iby’iwachu Village to enjoy various fascinating cultural performances. Community visits to Pygmies and the Batwa can also be arranged.

6. Visiting Rwanda Genocide Memorial Sites 

Kigali Genocide Memorial Center or Nyamata Church, a site where over 50,000 people were slaughtered in the 1994 genocide, is popularly explored. It’s usually a day trip.

7. Mountain Hiking

Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke Volcano offer the best hiking experience in Rwanda. On reaching the summit of Mount Bisoke, you’ll enjoy the appealing views of Bisoke Crater Lake.

8. Kigali City Tours

On your safari in Rwanda, exploring Kigali city allows you to tour Rwanda’s capital city. Its dazzling beauty is incomparable to that of most cities on the African continent.

9. Visiting the Grave of Dian Fossey

The late Dian Fossey is a prominent primatologist who conserved gorillas. Unluckily, she was attacked in her cabin in 1985 and butchered with machetes. You can also explore her Karisoke Research Center.

This lady gave rise to Mountain gorilla trekking tourism in the world and the Dian Fossey gorilla fund.

Packing List for Rwanda Safari Tour: What to Pack for Rwanda Safaris

While planning to undertake safaris in Rwanda, there are some essential things you shouldn’t miss out on your packing list!

Below is the Rwanda packing list for a safari:

1. Safari camera
2. Comfortable hiking shoes
3. A rain jacket is ideal on most prime tracking tours
4. Insect repellents
5. Sun protection gear
6. Long trousers & long-sleeved shirts
7. Hardy cloves
8. A backpack
9. Toiletries
10. Masks
11. A simple medical kit
12. Documents, including a yellow fever vaccination certificate, travel insurance, and a passport, are key among travel documents needed to enter Rwanda

Clothes For a Safari in Rwanda: What to Wear on a Safari in Rwanda?

Travelers on safaris in Rwanda are advised to always put on eco-friendly clothes. These clothes easily dwell in the environment! They include Khaki, brown, and grey clothes.

Also note that:       

• Clothes with black colors absorb heat
• Blue color draws Tsetse flies
• Clothes with bright colors irritate animals, especially Gorillas in Rwanda.
• Camouflaging clothes are not recommended; they are for military personnel mostly!

Rwanda Safari Lodges & Accommodations for Your Stay

Rwanda is one of the countries in the East African region with a variety of accommodation classes. These range from 5-star hotels to budget lodges.

Below are the:

1. Recommended Luxury Safari Lodges (Hotels) in Rwanda

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Bisate Lodge Volcanoes
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

1. Popular Midrange Safari Lodges in Rwanda

• La Palme Hotel
• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and
• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

1. Best Budget Safari Lodges in Rwanda

• Kinigi Guesthouse and
• Hotel Muhabura

Rwanda Safari Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda? Gorillas: When to Visit Rwanda? 

Gorilla safaris in Rwanda can be done all year round; however, the best time to go to Rwanda is during the dry season. Usually, June–August and December–February are recommended as there are minimum rainfall inconveniences.

Undertaking a gorilla trekking tour in wet months is a blessing in disguise! In these months, gentle giants (a gorilla family) hardly move in higher altitudes due to plenty of food in the jungle.

How to Get to and Around Rwanda for a Safari?

Normally, Kigali International Airport is the entry point for most travelers who come to Rwanda. Since Rwanda is a compact country, most of your transportation within this country is done using a vehicle, air transfers are minimal.

Visitors from Uganda coming for Rwanda trips transfer by road mostly.

If you plan to undertake a Uganda-Rwandan safari vacation, apply for an East African Tourist Visa.

Why Visit Rwanda on Your African Safari Vacation?

Most travelers on African safaris explore Rwanda to enjoy gorilla trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes NP. There are also a number of other safari expeditions in Rwanda, such as wildlife viewing tours chimpanzee adventures, etc.

Lastly, Rwanda safari holidays are relatively affordable compared to other African safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. A minimum of 5-7 days is ideal to explore Rwanda safari destinations.

Is Rwanda safe to visit? Is it safe to travel to Rwanda?

All tourists, including American citizens, are safe to safari in Rwanda. In Africa, Rwanda is regarded as one of the safest countries to travel to for a vacation. Every year, thousands of tourists undertake Rwanda safaris and leave the country safely.  The country (Rwanda) warmly welcomes tourists!

Book with us an affordable Rwanda safari holiday for a memorable experience!