Travel advice for a wildlife safari to Rwanda

Travel advice for a wildlife safari in Rwanda

Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills, offers travelers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Africa. With its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and captivating wildlife, Rwanda is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Rwanda offers more significant opportunities to spot primates in the wilderness on a primate safari experience, reason being it is one of the countries that harbour the world’s remaining population of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. You can do a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, though it does not have gorilla habituation experience.

Most popular safaris

3 day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

5 Days Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

3 day Rwanda Gorilla tracking safari

3 day Gorilla habituation experience safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari (Luxury)

4 Days Ultimate Fly-in Gorilla Experience (Mid-Range)

3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari To Bwindi (Luxury)

9 Days Ugandan Experience! Game, Chimps, and Gorillas (Luxury)

Where to go on a safari in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is found in the far northwest part of Rwanda and the most accessible national park in Rwanda from Kigali International Airport. The park is a home of the endangered mountain gorillas and at the moment, fifteen (15) gorilla families are available for adventure, giving you an opportunity for the gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda. The park also harbours other primate species that is to say golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys to mention but a few.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is commonly known for Chimpanzee tracking/ trekking (Rwanda Chimpanzee safari destination) and it is known as the main tourism activity taking place in the park. To take part in this activity, you must obtain a chimpanzee trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board first.

The park is known for 13 primate species including the famous chimpanzees, the largest troop of the black and white colobus monkeys

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is one of the biggest parks in Rwanda where travelers can have amazing wildlife safari tours. it is blessed with amazing wildlife species that is to say; lions, zebras, hippos and giraffes.

Boat cruise is one of the activities done in the park due to the existence of the fascinating lake ihema, game drives, birdwatching and communities tours are other major activities done in the park.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is made of two separate forests- the larger Gishwati and the small Mukura. Gishwati is home to a group of 20 chimpanzees which live alongside golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s and Blue Monkeys. Birds are well represented too, 232 species have been seen at Gishwati and 163 at Mukura, among them Albertine Rift Endemic species and forest specialists. Activities in the park started in 2019 and these include guided nature hikes, guided chimp and monkey tracking, bird watching and a visit to the waterfalls.

Essential travel advice to make the most of your wildlife safari in Rwanda

Planning Your Safari:

Choose the Right Time: Rwanda’s dry season, from June to September and December to February is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. However, the wet season, from March to May, offers lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.

Obtain Necessary Permits: To visit Rwanda’s national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorillas, you’ll need to obtain permits in advance. These permits often sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book them well in advance.

Select Accommodation: From luxury lodges to budget-friendly options, Rwanda offers a range of accommodation to suit every traveler’s preference. Choose a lodge that provides easy access to the national parks and offers guided safari experiences.

Getting There:

Fly into Kigali: Most international travelers arrive in Rwanda via Kigali International Airport. From there, you can either drive or take a domestic flight to your chosen safari destination.

Arrange Transportation: If you’re planning a self-drive safari, consider renting a 4×4 vehicle equipped for off-road adventures. Alternatively, many tour operators offer guided safari tours with experienced drivers.

Wildlife Encounters:

Gorilla Trekking: A highlight of any safari in Rwanda is trekking to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a camera with extra batteries.

Game Drives: In Akagera National Park, embark on thrilling game drives to spot iconic African wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Guided game drives offer expert insights into the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Birdwatching: Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 700 bird species. Keep your binoculars handy and explore the varied habitats of Rwanda’s national parks to spot colorful avian species.

Cultural Experiences:

Explore Kigali: Take some time to explore Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, Kigali. Visit the Genocide Memorial Center to learn about Rwanda’s tragic history and immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Community Visits: Engage with local communities and gain insights into Rwandan culture and traditions through immersive village visits and cultural experiences. Participate in traditional dance performances, craft workshops, and culinary tours.