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Destination guide

Rwanda Safaris & Tours

Rwanda, officially known as the Republic of Rwanda, is a breathtaking landlocked country in Central Africa along the Great Rift Valley.

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About Rwanda

Rwanda, officially known as the Republic of Rwanda, is a breathtaking landlocked country in Central Africa along the Great Rift Valley. Often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” it is celebrated for its rolling landscapes, rich biodiversity, and remarkable conservation success.

Bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda offers a diverse mix of mountain scenery, savannah plains, and pristine lakes. Its equatorial location ensures a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal safari destination.

Why Choose Rwanda for Your Safari?

Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s top luxury and eco-tourism destinations, offering a unique blend of rare wildlife encounters and scenic beauty:

  • Mountain gorilla trekking (once-in-a-lifetime experience)
  • Chimpanzee tracking in ancient rainforests
  • Big Five safaris in savannah landscapes
  • Spectacular hills, lakes, and volcanoes
  • Rich cultural heritage and history

Top Safari Destinations in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

The highlight of any Rwanda safari, located in the Virunga Mountains:

  • Mountain gorilla trekking
  • Golden monkey tracking
  • Volcano hiking

The park gained global recognition through the film Gorillas in the Mist, inspired by the work of Dian Fossey.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

One of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot:

  • Home to over 500 chimpanzees
  • 13 primate species
  • Famous canopy walk experience
  • Birdwatching paradise (300+ species)

Akagera National Park

Rwanda’s only savannah park for classic wildlife safaris:

  • Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino
  • Morning, evening, and night game drives
  • Boat safaris on Lake Ihema

Lake Kivu

A perfect relaxation destination:

  • Safe swimming (no hippos or crocodiles)
  • Kayaking and boat trips
  • Stunning views of the Virunga Mountains

Kigali

One of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities:

  • Cultural tours and museums
  • Kigali Genocide Memorial
  • Vibrant markets like Kimironko

Top Safari Activities

Gorilla Trekking

A life-changing experience in Volcanoes National Park:

  • Minimum age: 15 years
  • Permit cost: approx. $1,500
  • 1 hour with gorillas
  • Small groups (max 8 people)

Chimpanzee Trekking

Best in Nyungwe Forest:

  • Guided tracking in dense rainforest
  • Observe feeding, grooming, and social behavior
  • Chance to see other primates

Game Drives

Explore Akagera National Park:

  • Morning & evening drives for best sightings
  • Night drives for nocturnal animals
  • Spot lions, leopards, elephants, and more

Golden Monkey Trekking

In Volcanoes National Park:

  • Rare and endangered species
  • Playful behavior and striking golden fur

Hiking & Volcano Climbing

In the Virunga Mountains:

  • Mount Bisoke (1-day hike)
  • Mount Karisimbi (2-day trek)

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

  • Dry Season (June – September): Best for trekking and wildlife viewing
  • Wet Season: Lush scenery and fewer crowds

Rwanda’s temperatures remain stable year-round due to its equatorial climate.

Cost of Rwanda Safaris

Costs vary depending on travel style:

  • Budget: ~$200 per person/day
  • Mid-range: ~$400–$800 per person/day
  • Luxury: $2,000+ per person/day

Why Rwanda Stands Out

  • Easy access to gorilla trekking (close to Kigali)
  • World-class luxury safari lodges
  • Strong conservation efforts
  • Safe, clean, and well-organized tourism

Final Thoughts

A Rwanda safari is more than just a trip—it’s an immersive journey into one of Africa’s most inspiring destinations. From the misty mountains of gorilla country to the golden savannah plains, Rwanda offers a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Rwanda Travel FAQs

Why visit Rwanda?

Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s top luxury and eco-tourism destinations, offering a unique blend of rare wildlife encounters and scenic beauty:

  • Mountain gorilla trekking (once-in-a-lifetime experience)
  • Chimpanzee tracking in ancient rainforests
  • Big Five safaris in savannah landscapes
  • Spectacular hills, lakes, and volcanoes
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
When is the best time to visit Rwanda?
  • Dry Season (June – September): Best for trekking and wildlife viewing
  • Wet Season: Lush scenery and fewer crowds

Rwanda’s temperatures remain stable year-round due to its equatorial climate.

How much does a Rwanda safari cost?

Costs vary depending on travel style:

  • Budget: ~$200 per person/day
  • Mid-range: ~$400–$800 per person/day
  • Luxury: $2,000+ per person/day
How many Rwanda tours do you offer?

We currently offer 7 day by day itineraries in Rwanda, from 3 to 10 days, covering gorilla & primate trekking, wildlife safari.

Can I customise a Rwanda itinerary?

Yes. Every trip can be shortened, extended, combined with another country or moved to a different lodge tier. Tell us what you would change and we rebuild the itinerary around your dates.

Can I combine Rwanda with other countries?

Yes. We plan multi-country journeys across sixteen African destinations, and several of our itineraries already cross borders. Tell us where else you would like to go and we will suggest a route.

How do I get a price for a Rwanda trip?

Prices depend on your dates, group size and the lodge tier you choose. Send a quote request and our Kampala team replies within 48 hours with a day by day itinerary and a fixed price.

What is usually not included in Rwanda trips?

Unless an itinerary says otherwise, international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, tips and personal expenses are not included. The accommodation, transfers and activities listed in the itinerary are planned into your quote.

Do you run private trips for solo travellers and couples?

Yes. Trips run as private departures for solo travellers, couples, families and small groups, and are priced for the number of people travelling.

Rwanda Tour Itineraries

7 day by day trips, from 3 to 10 days. Every one can be shortened, extended or combined with another country.

From The Journal

Rwanda Travel Reading

Guides, stories and planning advice from our team.

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