Rwanda Safari Tours, Best African Safaris in Rwanda, Vacation Packages

Rwanda safaris/Rwanda tours majorly comprise of community cultural visits, Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, and wildlife safaris in Rwanda to top Rwanda safari parks and nearby communities. Rwanda safari tour vacations/holidays have become popular African safaris due to the great effort of the government, marketing the country all over the world! Explore Rwanda, dabbed as the land of a thousand hills (due to its dazzling mountainous nature) offers a range of memorable safaris worth undertaking on your African safari holiday. Among the fascinating safaris in Rwanda include gorilla tours.

Gorilla tours in Rwanda take place in Volcanoes Park. This park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, home to over 604 Gorillas. This area spans Congo’s Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga. Apart from Rwanda gorilla trekking safari tours, there’re other fascinating holiday safaris in Rwanda worth undertaking. And among these include chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park and trekking Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a wildlife tour in Akagera National Park.

Adventure lovers on Rwanda safaris, endeavor to undertake a mountain hiking experience to Mount Karisimbi. Canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park is another notable encounter a must not miss! Bird-watching tours in Rwanda await bird lovers! Rwanda has a rich bird life totaling over 703 bird species, counting about 29 Albertine endemics like the African Green Broadbill. Other birds to look for on your bird-watching Rwanda safaris include water bird species, acacia as well as savannah bird species.

Other outstanding holiday tours in Rwanda include cultural encounters in Rwanda. You’ll visit Iby’iwachu Cultural Village and Batwa (Pygmy) people communities. On your Rwanda safaris holiday, you shouldn’t miss visiting genocide memorial sites. These areas commemorate over 800,000 victims that were brutally slaughtered during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Taking the Kigali tour/Kigali city tour (based on Kigali recent traveler reviews) on your visit to Rwanda is a must not miss experience! It will allow you to explore Kigali- one of the cleanest cities in Africa.

Please note that all Rwanda safaris tours are safe and visitors have a range of accommodation facilities to opt for. You’re advised to book your safari with a reliable tour operator for an amazing experience in Rwanda. Do you want to explore Rwanda tours and relevant Rwanda gorilla walking safari information, let’s continue!

Top Rwanda Safari Tours & Wildlife Packages

Types of Safaris in Rwanda | Types of African Rwanda Safaris & Tours

There are numerous amazing Rwanda safaris and among these are:

• Rwanda gorilla trekking safari tours
• Chimpanzee tracking tours in Rwanda
• Bird-watching safaris in Rwanda
• Wildlife safaris in Rwanda
• Golden monkey trekking tours in Rwanda
• Boat cruises in Rwanda safaris
• Adventure Rwanda safaris
• Cultural tours in Rwanda
• Kigali city tour
• Rwanda fishing safaris

Here is a detailed description of the amazing safari tours in Rwanda:

1. Rwanda Gorilla Safaris | Rwanda Gorilla Tours

This is one of the fascinating reasons why thousands of visitors visit Rwanda. gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda gives you a memorable encounter with Mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Rwanda gorilla trekking tours take place in the Great Volcanoes National Park. This scenic park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, that spans Congo’s Virunga National Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Park.

Note that this mighty conservation area is home to over 604 Mountain gorillas; however, Rwanda’s Volcano park holds the highest population.

During your gorilla tour in Rwanda, all the treks in search of gorillas in their natural habitat start from park headquarters. During the gorilla trek, expect to encounter several amazing wildlife species, such as colorful bird species like the red-chested Chested Sunbird.

On encountering the allocated gorilla family, you’ll have an amazing experience watching these gentle giants in their misty environment (natural habitat)! Expect to learn about their behaviors as well as feeding patterns!

On your gorilla Rwanda safaris or gorilla tour in Rwanda, don’t forget to come with a camera and rain jacket, as well as comfortable hiking shoes.

IS RWANDA KNOWN FOR GORILLAS?

Globally, Rwanda, “the land of a thousand hills,” is prominently known for its extraordinary gorilla trekking experience!

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

The 12 gorilla family groups in Volcanoes National Park include:

MOUNTAIN GORILLA TREKKING RWANDA: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO SEE GORILLAS IN RWANDA?

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

Undertaking a Rwanda gorilla tour in the wet months is a blessing in disguise! In these months (March–May and September–November), gentle giants (a gorilla family) hardly move at higher altitudes! This is due to the abundance of food in the jungle. Therefore, trekking these gorillas takes a shorter time.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA? | HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SEE GORILLAS IN RWANDA?

How much does it cost to trek gorillas in Rwanda? Rwanda gorilla trekking costs 1500 USD.

As you intend to have Rwanda safaris, note that there’re no discounted gorilla permits in Rwanda! Gorilla permits in Rwanda are controlled by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

Visitors are advised to book their gorilla permits in advance before their Rwanda safaris since these permits are limited.

IS GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA WORTH IT? | IS RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING WORTH IT?

Undeniably, gorilla-watching Rwanda safaris or a gorilla tour in Rwanda are worth the money! Please note that a huge percentage of the Rwanda gorilla trekking fee is used to:

• Pay park rangers, who play a vital role in protecting these endangered primate species in their environment.
• Conserve the threatened habitats for these endangered primate species, or mountain gorillas, in Rwanda.
• Develop communities adjacent to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park by constructing schools, health centers, and roads.
• Compensate farmers around in case these gentle giants in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park destroy their gardens.

GORILLA TREKKING RWANDA VS. UGANDA: IS IT BETTER TO SEE GORILLAS IN UGANDA OR RWANDA?

Is Uganda or Rwanda better to see gorillas? This is a common query for travelers planning to undertake gorilla adventures in Africa!

Below is a comparison between Rwanda gorilla trekking adventures and Uganda:

• Rwanda gorilla trekking sites are easily accessed, unlike those in Uganda!Therefore, a Rwanda gorilla holiday is ideal for time-poor travelers on safaris in Africa.
• Rwanda’s gorilla permit costs $1500, whereas that of Uganda costs 700 USD.
• Trekking with Gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is more strenuous than those in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This is because Volcanoes Park is more of a mountainous park!
• Uganda is home to almost 50% of Mountain gorillas living on Earth! It offers over 160 gorilla permits daily but Rwanda only offers 96 gorilla trekking permits.
• It’s only Uganda that offers a gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park globally. There’s no gorilla habituation experience in Rwanda.

HOW MUCH IS A GORILLA SAFARI IN RWANDA? | HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT THE GORILLAS IN RWANDA?

Also, this is a common question that travelers planning to visit Rwanda for gorilla trips ask! However, keep in mind that there is no set cost for a Rwanda gorilla safari because it depends on a number of factors.

Here are the factors that affect the cost of your gorilla safari in Rwanda:

• class of accommodation you decide to use on your holiday
• number of days of your vacation
• The kind of safari vehicle you use on your trip
• Group size you are traveling with
• Activities you wish to add to your gorilla holiday

HOW MUCH IS A 1 DAY GORILLA TREK IN RWANDA?

The 1-day Rwanda gorilla trek costs roughly 1700 USD per person. This price includes a gorilla trekking permit, an English-speaking guide, transport, and accommodation.

Note that from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, it’s about a 2–3 hour drive. A 1-day gorilla tour is only possible in Rwanda, not in Uganda.

HOW DIFFICULT IS GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA?

Unquestionably, trekking gorillas in Rwanda is somewhat challenging, but this depends on the individual’s level of fitness.

This rewarding adventure involves hiking in the misty, thick rainforest. Also, expect to go through a fairly challenging terrain of slippery trails and valleys.

Regardless of the above challenges, the experience of spotting the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda in their habitat is worth undertaking!

ARE RWANDA GORILLA TOURS SAFE? | IS GORILLA TREKKING SAFE IN RWANDA?

Can you visit the gorillas in Rwanda? All gorilla safaris in Rwanda are safe, and every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world travel to Rwanda for gorilla holidays, which end successively!

Below is how safe gorilla trekking is in Rwanda:

• During your safari in Volcanoes National Park to see the gorillas, armed rangers will accompany you. These ensure your safety.
• A gorilla tour in Rwanda only takes place with fully habituated gorilla families. Such gorillas are used to human presence; they can attack you!
• The gorilla trekking rules and regulations also help to ensure your safety. For example, keep a 7–10-meter distance from gentle giants (mountain gorillas) upon encountering them.
• Rangers patrol Volcanoes National Park daily to drive away poachers. Therefore, don’t imagine that poachers will attack you in the jungle.

2. Rwanda Chimpanzee Trekking Safaris | Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda Trips

For a fascinating experience on Rwanda safaris, you shouldn’t miss undertaking a Rwanda chimpanzee tracking tour! It’s one of the most exciting adventures, as it gives you a golden opportunity to spotting Chimpanzees in their spectacular natural habitat.

Chimpanzee tracking Rwanda safaris take place in the great Nyungwe National Park (the Primate Capital of Rwanda), home to over 13 primate species.

During your chimpanzee trekking inNyungwe National Park, expect to encounter numerous beautiful bird species as well as stunning primate species like:

• The rare L’hoest’s Monkeys
• Black and white Colobus Monkeys
• Red-tailed Monkeys
• Vervet Monkeys
• Dent’s Mona Monkeys,
• Olive Baboons and other primates.

When encountering Chimpanzees “man’s closest cousins”, you’re limited to one magical hour enjoying chimpanzees feeding, playing, and roaming the ground.

Chimpanzee trekking Rwanda safaris in Nyungwe National Park are best done during the dry months, when rainfall is minimal.

3. Golden Monkey Trekking Tours in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park | Golden Monkey Trekking Rwanda Safaris

For a memorable holiday on Rwanda safaris, a Golden Monkey trekking tour is normally supplemented on top of your gorilla tour.

It’s a wonderful experience giving you a chance to visit these gorgeous fast-moving monkeys in their interesting habitats.  These pretty monkeys have shimmering reddish-gold back that blends perfectly in their golden bamboo zone.

Also note that the endangered Golden Monkeys are social, living in amazing groups of 3–80 individuals. They’re so entertaining to watch as they swing in bamboo trees or chase each other in loops around you! Their feeding patterns in bamboo shoots are also worth watching.

Golden Monkey trekking adventures are done in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This mighty park boasts 2 habituated golden Monkey groups, with the largest family holding over 80–100 individuals.

4. Bird Watching Safaris in Rwanda | Birding Tours in Rwanda

If you’re a bird lover undertaking Rwanda safaris, you should endeavor to include a bird-watching tour on your trip!

The land of a thousand hills, “Rwanda,” boasts a rich bird checklist totaling over 703 bird species. This total includes about 29 Albertine endemic birds, Lake Victoria biome species, and forest as well as savannah bird species.

Usually, bird-watching tours in Rwanda are best done in Nyungwe National Park, home to over 322 bird species counting, including 29 Albertine endemics counting the Red-faced Woodland Warbler. However, birding is also possible in Akagera National Park, Volcanoes NP, and Lake Kivu for water bird species.

Akagera National Park is known for savannah bird species in Rwanda.

The top bird species to look for on your bird-watching trip in Rwanda include:

• Red-collared Babbler
• African Green Broadbill
• Red-chested Bee-eaters
• Handsome Francolin
• Rwenzori Turaco
• Regal Sunbirds
• Neumann’s Warbler
• Red-faced woodland Warbler
• Blue-headed and purple-breasted sunbirds
• Dusky Turtle love

On your bird-watching Rwanda safaris, don’t forget to come with binoculars, a camera, comfortable hiking boots, insect repellents, etc.

5. Wildlife Viewing Safaris in Rwanda | Rwanda Wildlife Safaris in Akagera National Park

Frequently, travelers coming for Rwanda wildlife tour adventures accompany a wildlife trip to Akagera National Park on top of their Rwanda gorilla safaris.

For wildlife enthusiasts, endeavor to undertake a wildlife safari in Rwanda! It’s a captivating adventure, giving you a chance to encounter a great number of wildlife species in Rwanda’s Akagera national park. Among these are the Big Five as well as other classic game animals in Africa.

Wildlife trips in Rwanda take place in Akagera National Park, found in eastern Rwanda. On this rewarding adventure in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, expect to encounter wild animal species such as:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Herds of Buffalos
• Elephants
• Black Rhinos
• Hers of Zebras
• Giraffes
• Giant Nile Crocodiles
• Antelope species such as Gazelles, Impalas, Bushbucks, Waterbucks, etc.
• Baboons and other primates.

Please note that the only way to explore wildlife species in Akagera National Park is by undertaking a game drive as well as a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Ihema.

6. Boat Cruise Safaris in Rwanda | Rwanda Safari Boat Tours

Undertaking boat trips on Rwanda safaris is a serene way of exploring Rwanda’s beautiful scenery and wildlife that can’t easily be spotted on land. Mainly, boat tours in Rwanda are done on lakes as well as Rivers.

Usually, boat cruise safaris in Rwanda are done on Lake Ihema within Akagera National Park. During this amazing boat cruise, expect to encounter large pods of Hippos and countless Crocs.

Also, several water bird species in Akagera National Park, like Egrets and colorful kingfishers, can be spotted on the Island in the middle of this picturesque lake.

Further, there’s a boat trip on Lake Kivu, the biggest lake in Rwanda. Often, this boat cruise is done after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP.

During this cruise, you’ll explore the dazzling Islands of Lake Kivu, like Napoleon Island, as well as Mini Island, home to the Blue Monkeys. Likewise, while on this ride, you’ll enjoy impressive views of Mount Nyiragongo as well as the other 4 volcanoes.

For bird lovers, don’t miss undertaking a boat trip in Rwanda! It’s the only way to explore water birds!

7. Rwanda Adventure Safaris | Rwanda Adventure Tours

In East Africa, Rwanda is one of the best countries offering adventure trips and among these are:

• A CANOPY WALK IN RWANDA’S NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Canopy walking in Nyungwe National Park is one of the cherished adventure experiences worth undertaking on safaris in Rwanda.

Nyungwe canopy walk is a 60-meter-long and 70-meter-high suspension bridge above the forest.

While on a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park, expect to have breathtaking views of different parts of Nyungwe forest national park and L. Kivu! Furthermore, several beautiful primate species, bird species, and butterflies are common along this 2-hour, lovely walk.

• MOUNTAIN HIKING Safari IN RWANDA

Also, this is another memorable adventure in Rwanda, ideal for travelers interested in mountain climbing.

Since Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills, the country offers a range of hiking options! However, Mount Karisimbi (4,507m high) in Volcanoes NP offers the best hiking experience.

Other incredible volcanoes in Rwanda worth hiking include Mount Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura Mountain. A hike to the summit of Bisoke Volcano will expose you to a beautiful crater lake.

Please note that all the above volcanoes are part of the Virunga Mountains.

8. Cultural Tours in Rwanda | Cultural Experiences in Rwanda

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

This memorable experience gives you an amazing, close encounter with the lovely local people of Rwanda. And thus, you’ll have a great time learning about the fascinating traditions, beliefs, and cultural practices of the Rwandese.

Usually, Iby’iwachu Cultural Village is visited on a cultural trip in Rwanda. While here, you’ll enjoy vibrant traditional dance from locals, and you’re free to join the group for a memorable experience.

Other amazing cultural experiences in Rwanda include guided community walks, for example, visiting Batwa communities. Also, you can visit the King’s Palace in Nyanza, as well as the National Museum of Rwanda in the Huye district, etc.

9. Kigali City Tours | Rwanda City Tour

Often, most travelers supplemented the Kigali tour on top of their Rwanda safaris!

Please note that Rwanda’s city (Kigali) ranks among the most organized and cleanest cities in Africa. Therefore, undertaking the Kigali tour gives you a golden opportunity to explore Kigali.

There’re numerous sites to visit during your Kigali tour in Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills. But this depends on your choice and budget.

Some of the sites to explore in Kigali include:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial Site: This is one of the numerous sites built to memorialize over 800,000 victims who were brutally slaughtered in 100 days in the 1994 genocide of Rwanda! At this memorial site (in Gisozi), over 2500 people were buried.
• Mount Kigali—a hill holding great views of Kigali city and numerous hills around! Here, you’ll get to know why Rwanda is called the land of a thousand hills.
• The Presidential Museum: While here, you’ll get to learn about the events that led to the 1994 Rwanda genocide.
• Craft centers to buy yourself a beautiful souvenir—Inema Art Center, Ivuka Arts, as well as Caplaki Craft Village—can be visited.
• Amazing city restaurants—to taste delicious cuisines in Rwanda
• Visiting local vibrant Markets in Kigali—for example, Kimironko Market.
• Nyamata Church is a great genocide cenotaph site among the many. In this church, over 50,000 people were slaughtered during the 1994 genocide.

On your visit, you can still see skulls, bones, and machetes that were used in the kill! Outside this church, there is a massive grave where most of the victims were buried.

• Hotel Des Mille Collines, Also known as Hotel Rwanda, might have played a vital role in the 1994 genocide! The hotel management hid over 10,000 people inside from the massive killings in the 1994 genocide.

10. Rwanda Fishing Safaris | Sport Fishing in Rwanda Safaris

Although sport fishing in Rwanda is not so developed, this doesn’t mean that anglers can’t have a good time! Please note that sport fishing is recreational fishing; it’s normally fishing for pleasure as well as competition.

Commonly, Rwanda fishing safaris take place in Akagera National Park on lakes like Ihema and Lake Shakani, etc. L. Kivu is mainly used for commercial fishing in Rwanda.

Tilapia and Catfish are normally caught during this expedition.

For a great experience on your fishing safari in Rwanda, you should include wildlife as well as a gorilla tour.

Top Tourist Attractions in Rwanda: What to See in Rwanda on a Safari

Rwanda boasts several amazing attractions worth exploring on your visit.

Among the top attractions in Rwanda worth visiting are:

1. Lovely Primate Species in Rwanda

Rwanda is home to over 15 primate species. But Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park and Chimpanzees in Nyungwe forest national park are the most sought-after.

Other primate species in Rwanda to look for include:

• The endangered Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park
• Olive Baboons
• Red-tailed Monkeys
• White Colobus Monkeys
• L’Hoest’s Monkeys
• Owl-faced Monkeys
• Dent’s Mona Monkeys and
• Blue Monkeys, etc.

2. Incredible Game Animals of Rwanda

Rwanda holds a variety of game animals, including those that most visitors are interested in while on safaris in East Africa. Normally, most wild animals in Rwanda are spotted on a game drive and a boat cruise in Akagera National Park.

Here is a list of the best animals to see in Rwanda on a safari:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Elephants
• Herds of Buffalos
• Black Rhinos
• Zebras
• Giraffes
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Numerous antelopes, like gazelles and impalas,.

3. Beautiful Birds in Rwanda

Rwanda is home to numerous bird species, totaling about 703 birds. These include over 29 Albertine endemics, Lake Victoria biome species, and savannah birds.

Most birds of Rwanda are spotted in Nyungwe forest national park, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park, as well as around L. Kivu.

The most sought-after birds in Rwanda to look for include:

• Red-chested Bee-eaters
• Rwenzori Turaco
• African Green Broadbill
• Neumann’s Warbler
• Handsome Francolin
• Regal Sunbirds
• Red-faced Barbet and
• Dusky Turtle Dove, etc.

Other Rwanda Safari Attractions Include:

1. Historical sites in Rwanda: For instance, Rwanda genocide memorial sites, etc.
2. Beautiful Volcanoes: For example, Mount Karisimbi, Bisoke, etc. These are part of the Virunga Mountains. 8 massifs make up Virunga Mountains.
3. Stunning lakes in Rwanda: For instance, Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s biggest lake.
4. Lush forests in Rwanda, Such as Nyungwe forest national Park.
5. Legendary Rivers of Rwanda: Like River Akagera in Akagera National Park.

Best Places to Visit in Rwanda | Destinations in Rwanda to Visit?

There are numerous places to visit in Rwanda during your safari holiday and among these are:

1. National Parks in Rwanda

National parks are among the most fascinating places to visit in Rwanda. This great country boasts 4 national parks, each holding unique tourist attractions.

The national parks in Rwanda include:

• Volcanoes National Park is Known for gorilla safaris in Rwanda as well as the endangered Golden Monkeys.
• Nyungwe National Park- is famous for chimpanzee trekking tours
• Akagera National Park is the only savannah park, ideal for Rwanda wildlife tours.
• Gishwati-Mukura NP- is the newest park in Rwanda, created in 2015. It’s also home to the endangered Golden Monkeys and other primate species like Blue Monkeys & Black and White Colobus Monkeys.

2. Lush Forests in Rwanda

There are numerous forests worth visiting on your Rwanda safari. Most of these forests in Rwanda have a unique and amazing biodiversity, as they boast numerous beautiful birds, primate species, and reptiles, among others.

Commonly visited forests of Rwanda include Rwanda’s Nyungwe forest national park, home to chimpanzees and several birds. You can also visit the Gishwati-Mukura Forest.

3. Amazing Volcanoes in Rwanda

Since Rwanda is dubbed as the land of a thousand hills, the country boasts numerous volcanoes worth visiting on your vacation.

The commonly visited volcanoes in Rwanda include Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Often, they’re visited on top of the Volcanoes National Park safari.

4. Cultural and Historical Sites in Rwanda

There are numerous captivating cultural sites worth visiting on Rwanda safaris. And among these are:

• Genocide memorial sites in Rwanda
• Iby’iwachu Cultural Village
• Nyamata church
• King’s Palace in Nyanza and
• The National Museum of Rwanda, etc.

Rwanda Safari Activities: What to Do in Rwanda, Africa?

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

Below are the top thrilling safari activities in Rwanda:

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is the top highlight of most Rwanda safaris. It’s a remarkable and unique adventure, giving you a chance to encountering the endangered Mountain gorillas in Rwanda in their natural habitat for example, bamboo trees.

Rwanda Gorilla tours take place in Volcanoes National Park.

Note that Mountain safaris globally take place in only 3 countries: Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda! Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest holds almost 50% of Mountain gorillas on earth.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda

This is also one of the outstanding safari activities worth undertaking on your safari in Rwanda tour. It’s a great adventure, giving you a chance to visit chimpanzees, man’s close cousins, in their wonderful natural habitat!

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.

Chimpanzee tracking tours in Rwanda take place in Nyungwe forest national park.

3. Birdwatching in Rwanda

Rwanda 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 and Lake Victoria biome bird species.

Most of the birding tours in Rwanda are done in Nyungwe forest national park, home to over 29 Albertine endemic birds. Bird watching in Rwanda is also possible in Akagera National Park and around Lake Kivu.

Birds to look for in Rwanda include Lilac-Breasted Roller, Red-chested Bee-eaters, Great Blue Turaco, African Fish Eagle, and Archer’s Ground Robin.

4. Game Viewing in Rwanda

Taking a wildlife viewing trip on your vacation in Rwanda is the only way to explore the amazing wildlife of Rwanda.

Rwanda wildlife tour holiday trips are done specifically in Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five, among other animals and birds.

During your game-viewing safari in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, you’ll look out for Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, Elephants, Buffalos, various antelope species, etc.

Other Amazing Tourist Activities in Rwanda: A Must Not Miss Include:

1. Cultural encounters in Rwanda include, for example, visiting Iby’iwachu Village. Community visits to Batwa (Pygmy) People can also be organized.
2. Visiting Rwanda genocide memorial sites, for instance, the Nyamata church, a site where over 50,000 people were slaughtered in the 1994 genocide.
3. Kigali tours: visiting the busy local markets for instance Kimironko Market, etc.
4. Mountain hiking—for example, hiking Mount Karisimbi and Bisoke Volcano. On reaching the summit of Mount Bisoke, you’ll have great views of Bisoke Crater Lake.
5. Visiting the grave of Dian Fossey, a prominent primatologist in conserving gorillas. You can continue to explore her Karisoke Research Center.

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

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

Below is the Rwanda packing list for a safari:

• Safari devices like a camera with extra batteries, binoculars, and a 3-pin UK-style adapter.
• Comfortable hiking shoes: These are ideal if you are to undertake a chimp or a gorilla trekking expedition, etc.
• Rain jacket: This is so helpful in case rainfall gets you in the jungle.
• Insect repellents: help protect you in case of any biting bugs, like Mosquitoes.
• Sun protection gear: These include sunscreens, sunglasses, and sunhats, especially in dry months.
• Long trousers, as well as long-sleeved shirts: help protect your skin from cuttings.
• Hardy cloves: Are so ideal while on a trek with gorillas in Rwanda.
• A backpack: helps keep all your daily essentials like camera, toiletries, binoculars, and sunscreen, safe.
• Toiletries: Such as toothpaste, toothbrush, wet wipes, and tampons for ladies.
• A simple medical kit if you can!
• Documents as well as other miscellaneous items: These include a yellow fever vaccination certificate, travel insurance, a passport, and your safari itinerary.

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

Travelers on Rwanda safaris are advised to always put on eco-friendly clothes!

These clothes easily dwell in the environment, and among them are Khaki, brown, and grey clothes.

Also note that: 

• Clothes with black colors absorb much heat, especially in the dry season.
• The blue color draws Tsetse flies. This is possible, usually in savannah parks like Akagera National Park. Therefore, they should be avoided.
• Clothes with bright colors, such as white and red, irritate animals, especially Gorillas in Rwanda.  Likewise, such clothes easily pick up dust.
• Camouflaging attires (clothes) is not recommended. They are considered to be for military personnel in most African countries.

Rwanda Safari Lodges: Rwanda Safari Hotels to Use During Your Safari Rwanda Tour

Rwanda is one of the countries with a variety of accommodation classes. Accommodation facilities in Rwanda range from 5-star hotels to midrange to budget, as seen below.

1. Recommended Luxury Safari Lodges (Hotels) in Rwanda

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Virunga Lodge
• Bisate Lodge Volcanoes
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

2. Popular Midrange Rwanda Safari Lodges

• La Palme Hotel
• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
• Garden Place Hotel and
• Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel, etc.

3. Best Budget Safari Lodges In Rwanda

• Kinigi Guesthouse
• Hotel Muhabura and
• Villa Gorilla, etc.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda: When Is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Safaris?

What is the best month to visit Rwanda? Rwanda safaris are possible at any time of the year. However, the best time to safari Rwanda is during the dry season in the months of June–August and December–February.

In these months, the trails are somewhat drier, and minimal rainfall inconveniences are expected. Therefore, it’s an ideal time for mountain climbing, birdwatching, and gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

How to Get to and Around Rwanda for a Safari?

Normally, Kigali International Airport (KGL) 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. The country’s speed limit is 60 km/hr throughout.

On the other hand, Akagera Aviation offers charter helicopter transfers to every place in the country.

Please note that:

• Most visitors in Rwanda commonly use native tour operators in Rwanda for airport pick-up and further safari transportation.
• Visitors can also travel to Rwanda from Uganda by road! Travelers who are interested in double gorilla trekking frequently do this. You just have to apply for an East African Tourist Visa if you’re going to have a Uganda-Rwanda cross-boundary safari.

Is Rwanda Good for Safari? | Why Visit Rwanda?

Is Rwanda good for tourists? There are various reasons why thousands and thousands of tourists travel to Rwanda every year!

Below are the reasons why numerous tourists come to Rwanda:

1. Rwanda is one of the few countries in Africa offering gorilla tours. For travelers interested in gorilla safaris, endeavor to include Rwanda among their destinations.
2. Also, Rwanda is a paradise for chimpanzee tracking tours. Chimpanzees in Rwanda are spotted in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
3. Rwanda is home to the Safari Big Five, all in one place! These include lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalos, and elephants. They are spotted in Rwanda’s great Akagera National Park.
4. Rwanda is a birders’ haven in Africa; therefore, it’s an ideal site for bird lovers. The country boats over 703 birds, counting about 29 Albertine endemics like the African Green Broadbill, Shelly’s Crimsonwing, and Neumann’s Warbler.
5. In Rwanda, you can combine a wildlife safari with a gorilla tour, unlike in other safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania! This offers you an amazing experience on your African safari.
6. Rwanda is one of the few destinations to spot the endangered golden monkeys in Africa. Please be aware that these monkeys only exist in the Virunga Mountains, which Congo’s Virunga Park and Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla NP share.
7. Among African countries, Rwanda holds unique, rich culture and history worth exploring. For example, consider the history of the 1994 Rwanda genocide, where over 800,000 people were pitilessly slaughtered.
8. Lastly, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa to travel to!

Is Rwanda Cheap to Travel to? | Is It Cheap to Visit Rwanda for A Safari?

Compared to other safari countries in Africa like South Africa, Namibia, Kenya and Tanzania, Rwanda is one of the relatively cheap destinations to travel to.

Rwanda welcomes every class of traveler! This is so because this lovely country boasts several classes of accommodation for example:

• Most mid-range hotels (lodges) charge: 50–80 USD per night
• Luxury lodges (hotels) charge: Around $150 per night.
• Budget facilities charge: 9–50 USD a night in Kigali.

How Much Does It Cost to Go on Safari in Rwanda? | How Much Is a Safari in Rwanda?

For effective budgeting, usually, most travelers intending to undertake safari holidays in Rwanda are so inquisitive about the safari price.

Please note that there is no fixed cost for a safari in Rwanda! This is due to the fact that, aside from the $1500 Rwanda gorilla permit, a number of factors determine this price.

Here are the determinants of your safari price in Rwanda:

1. The number of days you’re to spend on your Rwanda vacation: Longer trips are usually more expensive than short trips. This is because each day comes with its own expenses, like accommodation.
2. The kind of activities you wish to undertake on your safari: Some activities are more expensive than others. For example, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is more expensive than game drives in Akagera National Park.
3. Class of accommodation you opt to use: If you opt to use luxury facilities, expect your Rwanda safari price to be higher than a person who has opted for midrange or budget facilities.
4. The best type of safari vehicle to use is: In Rwanda, tourists typically use safari land cruisers and safari vans. But note that using a Safari Land Cruiser is relatively more expensive than a van. This is because these vehicles have different fuel consumption.
5. Group size on your vacation: Generally, safari cost rise with the number of people undertaking a trip. This is because each person comes with an expense.

However, many people on the other hand, allow you to save on your safari holiday in Rwanda. A large group can share costs like accommodation and transport.

How Many Days Should I Spend In Rwanda? | How Many Days Do You Need in Rwanda?

Though this is a common question among travelers planning to have Rwanda safaris, you should note that there are no fixed days to spend on your Rwanda holiday.

The duration of your Rwanda safari trip depends on your interests, budget, and the time you have.

There’re several Rwanda safari activities, for example, game viewing, chimpanzee trekking, and trekking with Gorillas, as well as cultural encounters. Also, golden monkey trekking, Nyungwe canopy walk, boat cruise on Lake Kivu, and Kigali tour are possible

Our senior reservations officer will always be there to guide you, based on your Rwanda safari interests, time, and budget.

What to Expect on A Safari in Rwanda?

Note that your Rwanda safari expectations should align with the kind of trip you’re going to undertake.

For instance, if you are going to undertake a wildlife and primate trekking safari in Rwanda, expect to encounter:

• Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda
• Chimpanzees
• Golden Monkeys
• Other amazing monkeys, like Red-tailed monkeys,.
• Numerous wildlife species exist, counting the incredible Big Five, etc.

Remember, these are wild animals; therefore, sometimes your expectations on Rwanda safaris might change!

How Safe Is Rwanda for Travelers? Is Rwanda safe for safari?

Can you do a 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!

Below is how safe Rwanda is for tourists:

• In the park, armed game rangers are always with tourists. For example, while on a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park,. This is done to ensure your safety.
• All accommodation facilities in Rwanda have well-trained guards.They help to make sure that tourists on Rwanda safaris and their properties are safe during their stay at the facility.
• A qualified driver’s guide will always transport you. This experienced staff will always ensure that all is well with you on Rwanda safaris!

Please note that:

Although Rwanda is safe, petty crime, especially pickpocketing in busy markets, as well as credit card scams,. Therefore, you’re advised to be vigilant during your Rwanda safaris.

What Are the Top Tour Companies in Rwanda to Travel With For Your Safari? Best Rwanda Safari Companies

Getting online a dependable tour operator to book your Rwanda tour is not always easy. This is because there are so many travel companies online, and some of them are not trustworthy!

Here are some of the best Rwanda safari companies to travel with on your vacation:

1. Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd

2. Wild Gorilla Safaris

3. Gorilla Safari Rwanda

4. Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris

6. Gorilla Tracking Rwanda

What Are the Best Rwanda Safari Packages You Should Not Miss During Your Holiday?

Here are some of the best Rwanda safari packages

• 1 Day Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
• 2 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trek Safari: a two-day gorilla trek.

In summary, as you intend to have a holiday safari in Africa, Rwanda shouldn’t miss your bucket list. The country boasts a range of unique holiday safari tours hardly found in other safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. And among these are gorilla tour adventures, chimpanzee tracking tours, and golden monkey trekking expeditions.

Other exciting Rwanda safari experiences include bird watching, cultural encounters, as well as Kigali city tours, etc.

Book with us an affordable Rwanda safari holiday for a memorable experience! For any inquiries about your Rwanda tour, please email our responsive.