Rwanda Safari Guide – Africa’s High End Gorilla Treks

A Rwanda safari is an experience in one of Africa’s premier gorilla trekking destinations. With dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, primates in the jungle and vibrant culture, Rwanda is the perfect place for those seeking unforgettable primate and wildlife safari experiences.

Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ Rwanda is home to a population of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, making it a top destination for seeing these endangered species in their natural habitat.

As one of Africa’s safest countries with strict law enforcement, effective policing, friendly people and strong community security efforts, there’s no worry about visiting Rwanda. This comprehensive Rwanda safari guide offers an overview of making the most of your vacation.

• Embark on year-round Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris.
• Encounter chimpanzees, golden monkeys and numerous forest birds.
• Gain insights into Dian Fossey’s life and work

Rwanda is a landlocked East-Central African nation located just south of the equator and bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west and Burundi to the south.

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda. It is located in the center of the country, and known for its cleanliness, safety, and rolling hills with a population of over 745,261—making it the most populous city in Rwanda and the best place to start any Rwanda safari.

Rwanda’s contrasting landscape features a volcanic mountain range in the northwest, undulating, green highlands, plateau and interlocking hills and valleys in the central, mountain rainforest in the southwest, savanna plains in the east, Lake Kivu in the west and river valleys and swamps in the east.

The rolling highlands, valleys, and mountains are the most dominant features resulting in the nickname, the “land of a thousand hills.”

Few would have thought that Rwanda could bounce back from the horrifying 1994 genocide, which saw an estimated 1 million people killed in cold-blood by Hutu extremists (an indigenous ethnic group). This unforgettable experience was one of the darkest days in modern African history, but thanks to the people of Rwanda, who longed for a peaceful society and coexistence through reconciliation.

Today, Rwanda is recognized for its progressive policies just as much as its regretful history. The country is a role model in gender equality (Rwanda’s government has had the highest percentage of female members throughout the 21st century) and conservation (notably enforcing a countrywide ban on plastic bags in 2008).

Similarly, it is a pioneer in ecotourism, which has seen the conversion of five wetlands into eco-friendly spaces, the introduction of city cycle lanes, and the provision of sustainable wildlife tours, the standout of which is seeing a family of habituated mountain gorillas in Volcanoes situated on the country’s northwestern border.

Dian Fossey, the American primatologist known for her groundbreaking research on mountain gorillas and their behavior and her passionate conservation efforts, spent her days in Volcanoes studying these endangered species before she was killed in 1985. She remains the world’s leading authority on mountain gorillas. The highly acclaimed ‘Gorillas in the Mist,’ which she published in 1983, was later made into a film.

Rwanda is known for its majestic mountain gorillas. On a typical Rwanda safari, visitors can expect intimate and front row gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes, which combine well with chimpanzee tracking in the primate-packed Nyungwe National Park.

Akagera delivers excellent Big 5 sightings in a diverse savannah setting on traditional safaris, while Kigali city tours offer a glimpse into Rwanda’s genocide history and rich cultural heritage, and finally relax in Lake Kivu on a beach escape to conclude your Rwanda safari vacation.

Rwanda’s climate is tropical marked by hilly landscape stretching from east to west. The country has four primary climatic regions: the eastern plains, the central plateau, the highlands, and the regions around Lake Kivu.

The mean annual temperature is 19.1 °C, with average monthly temperatures ranging between 18.5 °C in July and 19.5°C in September. Average annual precipitation is 1,170.2 mm.

Rwanda experiences four climactic seasons, represented by the long rainy season from March to May and the short rainy season from September to November, alternating with the long dry season from June to August and the short dry season from December to February.

Rainfall is experienced throughout the year, with the most significant rainfall occurring from March to May, with April typically being the wettest month. So, plan your safari in Rwanda accordingly—consider packing a raincoat and warm clothing.

While Rwanda is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to September (peak season) and December to February. There is little or no rainfall in these months, which creates favourable conditions for gorilla trekking and hiking in Volcanoes National Park, as the trails are usually dry and less slippery.

Expect better wildlife visibility due to thin vegetation, as they can gather around permanent water holes, making them easier to spot.

December to February typically offer the best birding opportunities. This period sees the influx of migratory birds from North Africa and Europe, and resident birds are in their breeding plumage.

The annual Kwita Izina Ceremony, where all baby gorillas born over the previous twelve months are named, occurs between July and September.

Those interested in fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodation can visit during the wet seasons from March to May and October to November. These are also best times for photography due to lush landscapes.

Located in the Virunga Mountain ranges, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s premier safari destination and home to the endangered mountain gorillas. It also supports a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems that embrace evergreen bamboo forest, open grassland, swamps, and heath. Daily gorilla trekking excursions typically start from the park headquarters in Kinigi at 7:00 AM, with visitors grouped into teams of eight and allocated a gorilla family.

Nyungwe National Park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, large primate population, and prolific birdlife, making it Rwanda’s premier chimpanzee trekking and bird watching destination. Visitors can explore the dense forest and encounter 12 other primate species, including colobus monkeys, and golden monkeys or embark on nature walks and canopy walk.

Akagera National Park, a largely open expanse of savannah plains and wetlands is ideal for prime, uninterrupted wildlife viewing. It is the best place to spot the Big Five and other plains game including zebra, giraffe and impala in Rwanda. The park is excellent for family getaways and offers activities including game drives and boat cruises.

Kigali is the capital and main gateway to Rwanda. All international flights land here, and it is where visitors often choose to overnight on arrival. The city is a logical and convenient place to start or finish any Rwanda safari. Kigali is clean, safe, and home to some great cultural and dining options.

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the flagship of Rwanda’s tourism and a highlight of any Rwanda safari. It offers the unique opportunity to encounter a family of habituated mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. There are about 1,063 mountain gorillas in the world and spending one precious hour watching them munch, play, contemplate and groom each other is an incredible privilege.

A typical gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person.

Rwanda is home to an incredible population of chimpanzees which can be found on trekking excursions in the vine-draped treetops of Nyungwe National Park. . These playful creatures live in extended communities and move around every day, foraging for food or occasionally hunting smaller mammals. You will be led by expert ranger guides into the forest jungle to have an up-close encounter with them.

Rwanda is one of the best destinations to experience all-year-round wildlife viewing without a swarm of tourist vehicles disrupting your wilderness moments. All the Big Five and plains game, including giraffes, impalas, zebras, and bushbucks, are present and can be spotted in Rwanda’s only savannah park—Akagera National Park.

A number of excursions are offered around the fascinating city of Kigali to experience its unique history, culture, and architecture. A walk through the bustling neighborhood allows you to get a taste of Kigali city life, and visiting key sites like the Genocide Memorial Center, the Presidential Museum, and the art gallery are equally rewarding.

Cultural safaris provide a glimpse into Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. Trips are offered to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where a group of ex-poachers turned their back on their former lifestyle and created a traditional dance group that performs for visitors on village tours. You can also take a cooking class to learn to prepare local Rwandan cuisine or learn about conservation efforts.

You will most likely fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s main point of entry and gateway for international travel. It is located in the outskirts of the capital Kigali, about 10 km from the city center.

A scenic road transfer to Kigali is approximately 15 minutes, to Volcanoes National Park is approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route, and to Nyungwe is approximately 4 to 5 hours. Airport or hotel pick-ups and transfers are typically arranged by your local tour operator as part of your Rwanda safari package.

There are regional flights operated by Rwandair with regular connections between Kigali and Entebbe, Kigali and Nairobi, Kigali and Kilimanjaro (near Arusha in Tanzania), and Kigali and Johannesburg. RwandAir also conducts domestic flights between Kigali and Kamembe Airport (KME) in Cyangugu (Rusizi).

A typical Rwanda safari package costs anywhere from $250–$400 per person per day for a budget trip, $400–$600 per person per day for a mid-range trip, and over $600 per person per day for a luxury experience. A Rwanda gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person per trek and is the main driver of the high safari costs, often making even a short safari package exceed $2,000 per person.

The final price is usually determined by the season of travel, duration of the safari, accommodation, and activities included.

Expect around $2,000 to $3,000 range for a shorter budget safari, $4,000 to $8,000 for mid-range packages and over $8,000 for luxury safaris. Below is a breakdown of the cost of a safari in Rwanda.

*Contact your African Safari Specialist at Exploits to request a quote with the best, most current rates available.

Rwanda offers a selection of high-end luxury resorts, mid-range lodges, and affordable guesthouses and bush camps in Kigali, and in parks and reserves like Volcanoes National Park. Here are our top picks for intimate and immersive experiences.

This rainforest-based lodge was the first in Rwanda to blend high-end luxury travel with immersive and unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Six sublime en-suite forest villas surrounded by expansive landscapes and thriving wildlife are designed to pay homage to Rwandan royalty. The property offers breathtaking views over the brooding Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno volcanoes.

Located only 10 km from Kigali International Airport, this 5-star luxury resort is a good option for starting or ending any Rwanda safari. It is set along one of Kigali’s most charming boulevards, offering a private and peaceful retreat with a mixture of modern amenities and traditional Rwandese art and culture.

Set on a ridge overlooking Lake Ihema, in the southern section of the Akagera National Park, this luxurious family-friendly property offers an idyllic retreat in nature’s untouched haven. It ensures the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure.

Indulge in exclusive once-in-a lifetime experiences while staying at One & Only Nyungwe House. It is a transformed, idyllic eco retreat set on the edge of the ancient Nyungwe Forest, where 5-star comfort, gourmet dining, and spa treatments meet adventure amidst the wild.

From unforgettable gorilla treks and thrilling wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, every trip is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Here is a selection of bespoke package itineraries to inspire your next adventure.

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