Home » RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARIS, WILDLIFE SAFARIS IN RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARI PARKS
RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARIS, WILDLIFE SAFARIS IN RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARI PARKS
Rwanda wildlife safaris in Rwanda wildlife safari parks offer an exciting journey through the country’s diverse ecosystems for lasting memories.
Visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking to see the habituated gorilla families and golden monkey sightings, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, and Akagera National Park for game drives and boat cruises.
Rwanda’s rich biodiversity includes the Big 5 savanna mammals, over 700 bird species, and various other primate species, among other fauna species.
Combine wildlife exploration with cultural experiences, such as visiting the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village and genocide memorial sites/centers.
With its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, this land locked country is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Book your Rwanda safari now for an unforgettable experience!
Let’s delve into what wildlife safari tours in Rwanda wildlife safari parks entail!
Top-Tier Tourist Places in Rwanda to Visit for Ultimate Wildlife Safari Tours
For the ultimate Rwanda wildlife safari tours, tourists need to visit the four wildlife safari parks in the nation as well as some other outstanding tourist destinations, and these include.
Volcanoes National Park (A Gorilla Trekking Rwanda Hub)
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, the most visited national park in Rwanda, is a renowned destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers and is home to endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, other primate species, and various bird species, offering a unique experience for visitors on Rwanda wildlife tours.
The park spans approximately 160 square kilometers and is located in the Virunga Mountains, near Musanze town, with its headquarters based in Kinigi, making it easily accessible for tourists.
Volcanoes National Park is home to some of the top attractions in the land of a thousand hills, such as the critically endangered Mountain gorillas (400+ gentle giants in their natural habitat), 3,000+ Golden monkeys in the park’s bamboo forests, the late renowned primatologist Dian Fossey’s grave, the Karisoke Research Centre (a mountain gorilla research and conservation center), and Crater Lake-Lake Bisoke.
Other attractions in Volcanoes National Park include several bird species (178+) and other animals (forest elephants, leopards, olive baboons, 500+ White Colobus Monkeys), diverse landscapes (rainforests and bamboo forests), Musanze Caves, Buhanga Eco Park, twin lakes (Lake Burera and Lake Rubondo), Ibyiwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians’ Village), Virunga Mountains (Mount Bisoke (12,175 ft), Mount Gahinga (11,394 ft), Mount Sabyinyo (12,037 ft), Mount Muhabura (13,540 ft), and Mount Karisimbi (14,787 ft)), among other highlights.
Visitors to Volcanoes National Park can witness the grandeur of this wildlife safari park by taking part in safari activities like Gorilla trekking through the forest to find habituated gorilla groups or gorilla families (gorilla permits: $1,500 per person to see a gorilla family), Golden monkey trekking, game viewing, volcano climbing to conquer the summits of Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and other volcanoes, cultural tours to experience Rwandan culture and traditions.
Book your Rwanda safaris to Volcanoes National Park, a must-visit destination offering something for everyone, whether wildlife, adventure, or culture, amidst its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes for lasting memories!
Akagera National Park (Home of The Big Five)
Akagera National Park, established in 1934, is Rwanda’s only savannah national park, covering 1,122 sq km of grasslands, swamps, and woodlands, located in eastern Rwanda, and is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, which makes it a top tourist spot for Rwanda safari tours.
The park spans 1,122 square kilometers, situated in the eastern province of Rwanda, near the Tanzanian border, approximately 2.5 hours from Kigali.
Akagera National Park (Rwanda’s only savannah national park) boasts the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo), primate species (olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys, among other monkey species), over 480 bird species (the Shoebill Stork and African fish eagles, among other wildlife species), beautiful landscapes (rolling hills, valleys, and lakes-Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani), and historical sites, such as ancient caves and old colonial buildings.
Visitors to Akagera National Park can enjoy several safari activities, including 4×4 safari vehicle game drive (day and night), game viewing, boat cruise on Lake Ihema, birdwatching, sport fishing at Lake Shakani, guided nature walks, cultural tours, and behind-the-scenes tours.
With its unique blend of wildlife species, landscapes, and cultural experiences, Akagera National Park offers an unforgettable wildlife safari experience in Rwanda!
Nyungwe Forest National Park (A Chimpanzee Trekking Paradise)
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest national parks, renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty, located in western Rwanda, bordering Lake Kivu, Congo, and Burundi.
The park covers approximately 970-1020 square kilometers of rainforest, situated in the southern province of Rwanda, near the Burundi and DR Congo borders and packs a vast array of fauna, making it one of the best wildlife destinations to explore when on wildlife safari tours in Rwanda.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to attractions like 13 primate species (500+ chimpanzee species, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and other monkey species), over 300 bird species (Rwenzori turaco and crowned crane), Forest elephants, other large mammal species (e.g., bushpigs, duikers, and serval cats), unique plant species (e.g., the thick forest canopies suspended ~60 meters above the forest floor for the canopy walk), 6 stunning cascades of waterfalls (Kamiranzovu (60m) and Karambo (32m)).
Additionally, Nyungwe Forest National Park is also home to major lakes & rivers (L. Kivu (2,700 km²), Nyungwe River (100 km), Kagitumba River (60 km), Gisakura River (45 km), Tea and Coffee Plantations (Gisakura, Gisovu, Uwinka), Cyinzobe Area (1,115-hectare area with stunning views), Bigugu Mountain (~2,950 m-high peak with 360° views), Cyamudongo Forest (~500 hectares), and over 130 km of hiking trails (Igishigishigi Trail, Congo Nile Trail, Bigugu Trail)
Visitors to Nyungwe National Park can enjoy various safari activities like Chimpanzee trekking (permits: $60-$90 per person), Colobus monkey tracking ($60 per person), Nyungwe Forest canopy walk ($60 per person), Forest hiking (13 trails, $40 per person), Birding ($50 per person per day), Guided hikes to Isumo waterfalls and Congo Nile trail, and Camping in the forest, among others.
Explore Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park for the ultimate wildlife safari experience!
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s fourth national park, established in 2020 as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The park is a merger of Gishwati and Mukura forests, covering 34.4 square kilometers, located in western Rwanda, along the Albertine Rift.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park boasts epic primate species, including 20+ eastern chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys; over 84 bird species, including endangered species like the grey-crowned crane and white-headed wood hoopoe; other incredible plains game animals like African civets, servals, and red river hogs; a variety of tree canopies, including indigenous hardwoods and bamboo; and stunning waterfalls, such as the Gishwati Kazaneza Waterfall, among others.
Visitors to Gishwati-Mukura National Park can enjoy chimpanzee trekking, monkey trekking, waterfall hikes, birdwatching safaris, game viewing, nature walks, game viewing, community visits, and adventure sports like biking, etc.
With its unique blend of primates, birdlife, and scenic landscapes, Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers an immersive experience in Central Africa’s montane rainforests.
Visit Rwanda today and marvel at the beauty of its newest park when on a wildlife safari!
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest fresh water lake, situated on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, covering an area of over 2,600 km² and is one of Africa’s highest lakes, at 1,450m above sea level.
Lake Kivu is approximately 2,600 km² in size, located on the western border of Rwanda, shared with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is one of the best places on Rwanda tours for the best wildlife safari tours.
- Kivu boasts over 30 fish species, bird species (African Darter, African Wattled Lapwing, and Blue-cheeked Bee Eater), stunning beaches, green vegetation, Islands, fishing villages, and ports like Rubavu.
Visitors to Lake Kivu can enjoy hiking, bird watching, nature walks, chimpanzee tracking, sport fishing, Boat cruise, visiting coffee plantations on Nyamirundi Island, cultural experiences to learn about local culture on Nkombo Island, relaxation, and water sports
With its breathtaking scenery and diverse activities, Lake Kivu offers a unique experience for tourists visiting Rwanda.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Lake Kivu is a must-visit destination on Rwanda safaris!
Congo Nile Divide Trail
The Congo-Nile Trail is a 227-kilometer-long hiking and biking trail in western Rwanda, stretching from Gisenyi to Kamembe along the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, and is one of the best tourist spots to visit for a top-rated wildlife safari in Rwanda.
The trail spans approximately 227 kilometers, located in western Rwanda, along the shores of Lake Kivu.
The Congo-Nile Trail boasts stunning scenery (rolling hills, tea and coffee plantations, and waterfalls), scenic views of Lake Kivu and the distant DR Congo, local communities, and diverse fauna, making it a good tourist spot to explore on Rwanda tours.
Visitors exploring the Congo-Nile Trail offer opportunities to experience Rwandan culture and interact with local communities, visit local markets, shops, and villages, hike and bike along the trail, 4×4 drives, boat rides on Lake Kivu, etc.
The Congo-Nile Trail offers a unique adventure experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Rwanda’s natural beauty and culture.
With its scenic views and opportunities for cultural interaction, it’s a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts on wildlife Rwanda safaris!
Other Places to visit on Rwanda tours for a remarkable wildlife safari
These include.
| What To Visit in Rwanda | Attractions To Complement A Wildlife Safari in Rwanda |
| Kigali City | The Kigali Genocide Memorial Center, Camp Kigali, Umusambi Village, Nyamirambo Women’s Center, Caplaki craft village, Kimironko market, etc. |
| Genocide Memorial Centers | like Gisozi, Murambi, Nyamata, Bisesero, and Ntarama genocide memorial centers, to immerse yourself in the dark history of the Rwanda patriotic people. |
| Rwanda Mountains
| Karisimbi and Bisoke |
| Cultural Villages | Ibyiwacu cultural village, Humure refugee camp/village, Kitabi cultural village, Banda, etc. |
| Other Rwanda Cities | E.g., Cyangugu (home of Nyungwe National Park), Gisenyi (home of Lake Kivu), Rusumo (home of Rusumo waterfalls), Kayonza (home of Akagera National Park), Ruhengeri (home of Volcanoes National Park) |
Visit Rwanda and any of these tourist destinations for memorable wildlife trips!
Best Rwanda Hotels and Safari Lodges to Stay at On Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tours
Tourists on a wildlife safari in Rwanda wildlife safari parks can spend a night or two nights at any of these lodging options offering some of the best amenities and facilities, such as a swimming pool, breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, safari drives, etc. These include.
| Rwanda Luxury Lodges
| Mantis Akagera Game Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Virunga Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, One & Only Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Magashi Camp, One & Only Nyungwe House, and The Retreat, Kigali, among others. |
| Midrange Lodges
| Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge, Amakoro Songa Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Tiloreza Volcano Ecolodge, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Karenge Bush Camp, Home Inn, etc.
|
| Budget Lodges
| Kinigi Guesthouse, Gisakura Guesthouse, Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge, Akagera rhino lodge, Villa Gorilla Rwanda, Dereva hotel Rwamagana, Hotel Chez Lando, among many others
|
Book any of these accommodation options in advance for the best hassle-free wildlife tours in Rwanda!
Safari Prices For Rwanda Wildlife Tours
Rwanda safari prices vary depending on the type of tour and activities. These are some key costs to consider:
| Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park | Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit: $1,500 per person per trek, valid for one day |
| Discounted Rates | · Tourists staying over 3 days: $1,050 per person · Conference attendees: $1,275 per person |
| Porter Services | $10 per porter |
| Transportation | $50-$100 |
| Food | $10-$200 (depends on whether street food or fine dining) |
| Park Entrance Fee | · Rwandan/East African citizens: $7.50 · Foreign residents: $35 · International visitors: $50 |
| Vehicle Entrance Fee | · Rwandan/East African vehicles: $12-$24 · Foreign vehicles: $40-$100 |
| Guiding Fee | $25 (half-day) or $40 (full day) |
| Game Drive Fees | · Daytime safari drive: $180 (5 hours, max 7 people) · Night drive: $40 (adults), $25 (children) |
| Other Activities | · Monkey trekking ($100) · Safari drives ($30-$40) · Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest ($60) · Colobus monkey tracking ($60) · Nyungwe Forest canopy walkways ($60) |
Customized Safari Packages
Some tour operators offer customized safari packages that include accommodations, transportation, and activities. Prices vary depending on the package (luxury, budget, or midrange) and services included. Examples include:
- Ultra-Luxury Rwanda Safaris (4-8 days): from $7,710 for a private tour
- Showcasing Rwanda Safari (11 days): from $7,775
- Rwanda Gorillas, Lake & Chimpanzee Safari (9 days): from $7,005
- Best of Rwanda Safari (8 days): from $6,305
Prices may vary depending on the tour operator, time of year, and other factors; therefore, research and compare prices to find the best option for your needs and budget!
How To Get to Rwanda for A Wildlife Safari?
Getting to Rwanda for a wildlife safari is straightforward, with options to suit different preferences and budgets, and this is what traveling to Rwanda encompasses.
- Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL) from major cities like London, Brussels, and Nairobi.
- Alternatively, enter Rwanda via land borders from neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the DR Congo.
From Kigali to Wildlife Safari Parks
- Drive to Akagera National Park (2.5 hours), Volcanoes National Park (2 hours), or Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- Book a charter flight from Kigali International Airport to Akagera National Park with Akagera Aviation Company.
Domestic Travel Options (Getting Around)
- Car Rentals: Available at the airport and major cities for flexibility and convenience ($50-$100 per day).
- Motorbike Taxis (Motos): Affordable and fast for short distances, perfect for city exploration ($1-$5 per ride).
- Buses and Minibuses: Connect major towns and cities, a budget-friendly option for longer trips ($5-$20 per person).
- Private Transfers: Ideal for tourists and business travelers, offering a hassle-free experience ($50-$100 per trip).
- Rwanda Interlink Transport Company: For longer journeys, book for reliability and comfort ($100-$200 per trip).
Booking and Planning
- Contact a reputable Rwanda safari operator specializing in Rwanda Wildlife Safari tours or the Rwanda Development Board for assistance with tour packages, accommodation, and permits.
- Book customized safari packages, like the 18 Days Uganda Rwanda holiday – Game viewing, Mountain Gorillas & Mountain Climbing
- Choose from various lodges and camps, such as Magashi Safari Camp or Bisate Lodge.
Rwanda Travel Tips
- Ensure you meet the necessary entry requirements, including a valid passport and visa (available on arrival or online).
- Pack essentials like lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Take necessary health precautions, such as drinking bottled water and getting vaccinated for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid.
Visit Rwanda today and experience the best of what it offers on Rwanda tours!
Best Time to Visit Rwanda for A Wildlife Safari
Rwanda is a year-round destination for wildlife safari tours, but the best time to visit depends on your priorities. Please take a moment to review these options and suggestions.
| Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park | · June to September: Dry season with ideal conditions, less muddy trails, and better wildlife viewing opportunities. · December to February: Short dry season with pleasant weather, suitable for Rwanda gorilla trekking and outdoor activities. |
| Best Time for Bird Watching | · March to May: Wet season with lush green landscapes, ideal for spotting birdlife. · October to December: Short rainy period with quick, heavy bursts of rain, perfect for birding and photography. |
| Other Considerations | · Peak Tourist Season: July and August; book accommodations and permits in advance to avoid crowds. · Rainy Season: March to May, challenging for trekking, but landscapes are lush and green, and gorilla permits might be cheaper. · Shoulder Season: October to November, excellent for photography with dramatic thunderstorms and lush landscapes. |
NB
- Rwanda’s climate is generally temperate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C (50°F to 81°F) throughout the year.
- Pack accordingly, with layers for cooler mornings and evenings, and waterproof gear for unexpected rain showers.
- Don’t forget to book gorilla permits well in advance, especially during peak season.
Don’t miss an adventure of a lifetime; explore Rwanda tours now!
Safari Rwanda Packing List for A Wildlife Safari
Travelers on Rwanda safaris can pack and wear any of these essentials below.
| Clothing | Pack lightweight, breathable clothing; long-sleeved shirts and pants; sturdy hiking boots; and rain gear for a comfortable and safe wildlife safari experience in Rwanda. |
| Accessories | Don’t forget to pack essential accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a small backpack, and a first-aid kit for a safe and enjoyable safari experience. |
| Personal Essentials | Pack essentials like travel documents, personal toiletries, prescription medications, a power adapter, a headlamp or flashlight, snacks, and a water bottle to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Rwanda. |
| Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park | For gorilla trekking in Rwanda, wear gardening gloves, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and sturdy hiking boots, and consider bringing a walking stick for added protection and stability. |
| Miscellaneous | Pack miscellaneous items like malaria pills, warm clothing, lightweight quick-drying clothes, and local currency (Rwandan Franc) for a comfortable and convenient trip. |
Check with your travel agent for the most recommended items to suit your itinerary!
Best Rwanda Tour Companies
For remarkable Rwanda safaris, contact any of these professional tour operators to customize the best Rwanda tour packages for you, as well as tours to any other country, e.g., Congo tour packages, Kenya tour packages, etc.
- Gorilla Safari Rwanda
- Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd
- Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
- Wild Gorilla Safaris
- Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
These offer the best safari packages, such as.
- 7 days Uganda and Rwanda safari, Mount Karisimbi, Mountain Gorillas, Wildlife & Chimpanzees
- 8 Days Uganda Rwanda trip, Wildlife & Gorilla trek
- 9 Days Uganda and Rwanda Vacation
- 11 Days Uganda and Rwanda Vacation – game viewing, Mountain Gorillas, Mount Karisimbi, Chimpanzees & Golden Monkeys
- 12 Days Uganda Rwanda Tour—Mountain Gorillas, Wildlife, Chimpanzees & Golden Monkeys
- 16 Days Uganda Rwanda trip – Mount Karisimbi, Lake Kivu, Gorilla trek & Chimpanzees
- 18 Days Uganda Rwanda holiday – Game viewing, Mountain Gorillas & Mountain Climbing
Don’t hesitate; contact any of these tour companies for customized wildlife Rwanda safari packages!
Rwanda Wildlife Safaris FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is Rwanda Good for Safari?
Yes, the land of a thousand hills is good for safari as it offers an excellent safari experience with unique wildlife encounters, gorilla trekking to see a habituated gorilla group/gorilla family, and cultural experiences in a safe environment.
How Much Is a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda?
A gorilla trek to see a habituated gorilla group/gorilla family in Rwanda costs $1,500, covering the gorilla trekking permit costs, which can be obtained from the Rwanda Development Board.
- Are There Wild Animals in Rwanda?
Yes, there are wildlife species in Rwanda, and they include the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos), gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hyenas, jackals, olive baboons, and various bird species, found in national parks like Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, and Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- How Much Is a Gorilla Experience in Rwanda?
A gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda to see a habituated gorilla group/gorilla family costs $1,500 per person per day for a permit, plus additional costs for accommodation ($50-$5,500/night), transportation, food ($40/day), porters ($15), and tips.
The total estimated cost is around $1,700, and booking permits in advance through the Rwanda Development Board or a reputable tour operator is strongly recommended.
- Is Uganda or Rwanda Better for Gorilla Trekking?
Both countries in East Africa offer some of the best gorilla trekking safaris on the African continent, and therefore for which one is better depends on individual preferences. These are some of the key points to note before deciding on a better option.
Key Differences
| Cost | Uganda’s gorilla permits are cheaper ($800) compared to Rwanda’s ($1,500) |
| Terrain | Uganda’s Bwindi Forest is more rugged and dense, while Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers more open spaces |
| Luxury | Rwanda has more high-end accommodations and luxury private tour packages |
| Habituated Gorilla Families
| Uganda has more habituated gorilla families in its Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks than Rwanda, making it easier to spot gorillas in Uganda. |
| Activities | Uganda offers diverse landscapes and activities in its national parks, like chimpanzee tracking safaris, hiking, and white-water rafting, while Rwanda offers golden monkey trekking and visits to the Genocide Memorial centers |
Choose
- Uganda for a more affordable, adventurous experience with diverse wildlife and landscapes
- Rwanda for a more luxurious, convenient experience with stunning mountain views
Ultimately, both destinations offer incredible experiences, so consider your priorities and choose based on budget, physical ability, scenic views, and additional activities.
- Where Can I See Animals in Rwanda?
Rwanda’s top wildlife spots include Akagera National Park for the Big Five, Nyungwe Forest for primates, and Volcanoes National Park for gorillas.
Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, offers unforgettable wildlife experiences. From thrilling gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest and game drives in Akagera, Rwanda’s diverse landscapes and wildlife species make it a top destination for safari enthusiasts.
With its growing tourism industry and resilient spirit, Rwanda invites you to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and remarkable wildlife. Book your Rwanda wildlife safari today and create lifelong memories!
