Rwanda Animals Guide: Top Wildlife To See in Rwanda
Wildlife in Rwanda. Rwanda may be small, but its wildlife offerings are truly world-class. From mountain rainforests to wide savannahs, the country shelters rare primates, Big Five icons, and hundreds of birds. Whether you’re on a gorilla trek or a classic game drive, Rwanda’s wild side will take your breath away.
Mountain Gorillas
Mountain gorillas are Rwanda’s most iconic species. These endangered primates live in the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla trekking offers the rare chance to observe a family of gorillas in their natural habitat. You will hike through dense forest, guided by expert trackers, until you come face-to-face with a silverback and his group. Watching them play, groom, or feed is an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Golden Monkeys
Golden monkeys also call Volcanoes National Park home. They live in bamboo forests and move in large, energetic groups. Their bright orange fur makes them easy to spot as they leap between branches. Unlike the gorillas, golden monkeys are smaller, faster, and always in motion. They’re curious, playful, and highly photogenic, making the experience just as rewarding.
African Elephants
In Akagera National Park, you’ll find herds of African elephants roaming freely. These giants often gather near Lake Ihema or other water bodies. You can watch them drinking, spraying mud, or moving across the plains. Elephants in Rwanda are part of a thriving conservation story, with numbers steadily rising thanks to strong protection efforts.
Lions
Lions were once extinct in Rwanda, but Akagera National Park reintroduced them in 2015. Now, they roam the park confidently, hunting antelope and patrolling their territory. Lions usually sleep during the day, so early morning or evening drives offer the best chance to spot them. Hearing a lion roar in the wild is an unforgettable moment.
Leopards
Leopards also live in Akagera but prefer to stay hidden. They are shy, solitary cats that often rest in trees during the day. They hunt under the cover of night, relying on stealth. Spotting one requires patience, a skilled guide, and a bit of luck. But when you do, it’s one of the most rewarding sights in Africa.
Giraffes
Masai giraffes are among the tallest animals in Rwanda. They move gracefully across Akagera’s savannah, often stopping to feed on acacia trees. Giraffes travel in groups and are easy to spot against the open landscape. Their calm behavior and towering height make them a favorite for photographers.
Hippos and Crocodiles
Akagera’s many lakes, especially Lake Ihema, are home to large pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles. Hippos spend most of their time submerged in water but become more active at dusk. Crocodiles can be seen sunbathing on the banks. A boat safari offers close-up views of both and a different perspective of the park’s ecosystem.
Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees live in Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. These primates are highly intelligent and social. You’ll hear their loud calls long before you see them. Trekking to see chimpanzees is fast-paced and thrilling. They swing through the treetops and move quickly through the undergrowth, creating an active and immersive experience.
Birds
Rwanda is a paradise for bird lovers. With over 700 bird species, the country offers rich opportunities for birdwatching. Nyungwe, Akagera, and even Kigali’s wetlands host a wide variety of birds. Highlights include the Great Blue Turaco, the Shoebill Stork, and the Red-collared Mountain Babbler. Rwanda’s compact size allows birders to explore different habitats in a short time.
Antelope and Buffalo
Akagera is home to a wide variety of antelope species, including impalas, topis, elands, and bushbucks. These herbivores form the backbone of the savannah food chain. African buffaloes roam in herds, often grazing or cooling off in muddy pools. Seeing them in the wild gives you a deeper appreciation for the diversity and balance of Rwanda’s wildlife.
Plan Your Safari With Us
At Gecko Safaris Africa, we craft unforgettable journeys across Rwanda’s best national parks. Whether you are looking for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe, or Big Five safaris in Akagera, we’ll help you experience every wild moment. Travel with expert guides, stay in eco-lodges, and support conservation every step of the way.
