A Safari in Rwanda: Gorillas, Big Five & Scenic Wonders
Safaris in Rwanda. When people think of African safaris, they often picture the vast plains of Kenya or Tanzania. But Rwanda offers something rare and deeply moving — a safari that takes you from misty volcanoes to sunlit savannahs, all within a few hours’ drive. Compact, clean, and biodiverse, Rwanda is one of the most rewarding safari destinations in Africa.
Whether you’re tracking gorillas through the jungle, watching elephants in the wild, or walking through ancient rainforests, a safari in Rwanda delivers nature at its most intimate and spectacular.
Why Choose a Safari in Rwanda?
Rwanda is not just about gorillas. The country has made remarkable strides in conservation, security, and infrastructure. Roads are well-maintained, parks are professionally managed, and local guides are highly trained.
A safari here blends classic game viewing with unique encounters in lush, dramatic settings. The experience is personal and powerful — without the large crowds you’ll find in some neighboring countries.
Top Safari Destinations in Rwanda
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Volcanoes National Park
This is Rwanda’s star attraction — home to about one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings you face-to-face with one of nature’s most majestic and gentle creatures.
Treks range from easy to challenging, depending on where the gorilla families are located that day. Each group of visitors spends one unforgettable hour in the company of these great apes.
Other experiences in Volcanoes include golden monkey tracking, hiking Mount Bisoke, or visiting the Dian Fossey tomb site.
Location: Northern Rwanda (2.5 hrs from Kigali)
Gorilla Permit: $1,500 per person
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Akagera National Park
If you’re looking for a traditional savannah safari, Akagera delivers. Located in the east, this park spans over 1,100 square kilometers of grassland, acacia woodland, wetlands, and lakes.
Akagera is home to the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes — along with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species. You can enjoy game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and even night safaris.
Akagera has rebounded from near-collapse in the 1990s to become a model of African conservation.
Location: Eastern Rwanda (2.5–3 hrs from Kigali)
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Nyungwe Forest National Park
In the southwest lies Nyungwe, a lush, ancient rainforest that offers something different: chimpanzee tracking. The forest is home to 13 primate species, including colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
Nyungwe is also a birder’s paradise and hosts East Africa’s only canopy walk, a suspended bridge high in the trees with sweeping forest views.
Location: Southern Rwanda (5–6 hrs from Kigali)
Best for: Primates, birding, hiking, and eco-tourism
Sample 7-Day Rwanda Safari Itinerary
Here’s how you could experience the best of Rwanda in one week:
Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, visit the Genocide Memorial, overnight in the city
2 day: Travel to Volcanoes National Park
3 day: Gorilla trekking
4 day: Drive to Akagera, overnight inside the park
5 day: Full-day game drive
6 day: Boat safari and transfer to Kigali
7 day: Fly home or extend to Nyungwe
This itinerary gives you mountain, savannah, and city — the full Rwandan safari experience.
When to Go on Safari in Rwanda
Rwanda offers year-round safari travel, but the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are best for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing.
- Gorilla trekking is possible any time, but dry trails are easier to navigate.
- Akagera’s game is more concentrated near water sources during the dry season.
- Birding is best from November to April, when migratory species are present.
What Makes Rwanda Unique?
- Ease of travel — Small country, short drives, great roads
- High safety standards — Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries
- Low visitor numbers — Intimate, crowd-free safari experiences
- Conservation impact — Gorilla permits directly fund community and wildlife projects
- Clean and green — Rwanda is famously clean, with strong eco-tourism policies
Cost of a Safari in Rwanda
Rwanda positions itself as a high-value, low-impact destination. Gorilla trekking permits are expensive, but worth every dollar in experience and conservation value. Safari options range from mid-range to luxury, depending on accommodation and itinerary.
A full week of safari, including gorilla permits, park fees, transport, and guides, generally ranges from $3,500 to $8,000+ per person.
Final Thoughts: Rwanda is a Safari Like No Other
A safari in Rwanda is a journey through diversity — not just in landscapes and wildlife, but in experiences. You’ll feel awe among gorillas, peace on a boat across Lake Ihema, and wonder in the deep green of Nyungwe.
Compact, pristine, and unforgettable — Rwanda offers Africa’s most elegant and emotional safari.
📌 Plan Your Safari in Rwanda Today
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