Welcome to the land of a thousand hills — Rwanda. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife, Rwanda is quickly becoming a sought-after destination for safari enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re in search of gorilla trekking, bird watching, or a glimpse of the Big Five, Rwanda has it all. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforests of the Virunga Mountains, witness the stunning beauty of Lake Kivu, and experience the vibrant culture of the Rwandan people. With its impressive conservation efforts and commitment to sustainable tourism, Rwanda offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience that is both awe-inspiring and transformative. So pack your bags, get your camera ready, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Africa.
1. Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is a popular safari destination located in northwestern Rwanda. Covering an area of approximately 160 square kilometers, the park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and offers visitors a chance to witness the gorillas in their natural habitat.
Landscape and Wildlife
The park features lush green forests that cover the steep slopes of the Virunga Mountains, which are also home to the famous Karisimbi, Bisoke, and Mikeno volcanoes. The park’s ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including the golden monkey, bushbuck, forest elephants, and over 200 bird species. However, the park’s main attraction is the mountain gorillas, which can only be found in the Virunga mountain range.
Safari Experience
Visitors can participate in gorilla tracking expeditions where they hike through the forest to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Trekking to see the gorillas can take anywhere from one to six hours, depending on their location. The park also offers other activities such as visiting the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Research Center and exploring the nearby Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the drier months of June to September and December to February, as the trekking conditions are much better during these months. Additionally, visitors should note that permits for gorilla trekking need to be obtained well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the unique ecosystem of the Virunga Mountains and seeing the magnificent mountain gorillas up close. The park offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat and participate in a variety of exciting activities that will make any safari experience unforgettable.
2. Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda and covers an area of 1,200 square kilometers. This park is named after the Akagera River, which flows through it, creating a beautiful landscape that attracts visitors from around the world. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species and offers an authentic African safari experience.
Landscape and Wildlife
The landscape of Akagera National Park is diverse, ranging from rolling hills to savannas and wetlands. The park is home to many species of animals, including the «Big Five» (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo), as well as giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and more than 500 species of birds. Visitors can also see the rare shoebill stork in the park’s wetlands.
Safari Experience
Akagera National Park offers a variety of safari experiences, including game drives, boat tours, and guided walks. Game drives are the most popular activity and are a great way to see the park’s diverse wildlife. Visitors can choose between morning and afternoon game drives and can hire a guide or bring their own vehicle.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the wildlife is easier to spot, as they congregate around water sources. The wet season, which runs from October to May, brings lush vegetation and baby animals, but the rain can make some areas of the park inaccessible.
Akagera National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in a true African safari experience. With its diverse landscape and abundant wildlife, visitors can enjoy a range of activities while getting up close and personal with some of Africa’s most iconic animals. Whether you choose to go on a game drive or a boat tour, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure in Akagera National Park.
3. Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda, covering an area of 1,020 km². It is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, with over 1,000 plant species and 13 primate species. The park is known for its pristine rainforest, high-altitude swamps, and scenic hiking trails.
Landscape and Wildlife
The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and thick forests that house a variety of wildlife. The rainforest is home to primates such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and the endangered golden monkey. Other animals that can be seen in the park include forest elephants, antelopes, and over 300 bird species. Visitors can also explore the park’s high-altitude swamps, which are a vital source of water for the surrounding communities.
Safari Experience
Nyungwe National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to experience its diverse wildlife and landscapes. Guided nature walks and hiking trails allow visitors to explore the rainforest and see primates, birds, and other animals up close. The park is also popular for chimpanzee trekking, where visitors can track and observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. For those seeking adventure, the park offers canopy walks that give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nyungwe National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife sightings are more common. The park is also less crowded during the dry season, providing visitors with a more peaceful and intimate safari experience.
Nyungwe National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing Rwanda’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty. With its pristine rainforest, high-altitude swamps, and range of activities, the park provides visitors with a unique and unforgettable safari experience.
4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a relatively new addition to Rwanda’s impressive list of safari destinations, having been established in 2016. Located in the western part of the country, this park covers an area of over 1,000 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Landscape and Wildlife
The park is characterized by its dense forests, rolling hills, and scenic waterfalls. The vegetation is mostly tropical rainforest, but there are also pockets of bamboo forests and grasslands. The park is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and baboons, as well as rare species such as the golden monkey and L’Hoest’s monkey. Other notable species include forest elephants, giant pangolins, and various species of antelope.
Safari Experience
Visitors to Gishwati-Mukura National Park can expect a unique safari experience that includes activities such as hiking, bird watching, and primate tracking. The park’s well-trained guides will take you through the forests to spot primates and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning scenery of the park and its waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the trails are less muddy, making it easier to navigate the park’s rugged terrain. Additionally, the dry season is an ideal time for wildlife viewing, as animals are more likely to gather around water sources.
In conclusion, Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers visitors a unique safari experience, with its dense forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a bird watcher, or simply looking for an adventure in the heart of Africa, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is definitely worth a visit.
5. Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a breathtaking body of water that sits on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an area of approximately 2,700 km², it is the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda and one of the largest in Africa. The lake has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its stunning scenery, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions.
Landscape and Wildlife
The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and towering mountains, including the Virunga Mountains, which are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The lake itself is home to over 50 species of fish, including the Nile tilapia and the sardine-like dagaa. Visitors can also spot a variety of bird species, such as the pied kingfisher, African fish eagle, and the swamp flycatcher.
Safari Experience
Lake Kivu offers a variety of activities, from relaxing on the beaches to adrenaline-pumping water sports. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to explore the small islands that dot its surface, visit local fishing villages, or enjoy swimming and kayaking. For those seeking adventure, the lake also offers water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Kivu is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that Rwanda’s climate is generally mild, so visitors can enjoy the lake and its surrounding areas throughout the year.
Lake Kivu is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Rwanda. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the lake offers something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and wide range of activities, it’s no wonder that Lake Kivu has become one of Rwanda’s top tourist attractions.
6. Rugezi Swamp
Rugezi Swamp is a hidden gem of Rwanda’s wilderness, located in the northern province of the country. Despite being one of the smaller parks in Rwanda, it has a lot to offer for nature enthusiasts and those who seek a unique safari experience.
Landscape and Wildlife
The swamp is surrounded by a stunning landscape of hills and valleys, and the swamp itself is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of bird species. The lush vegetation in and around the swamp creates an ideal habitat for these animals, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
Safari Experience
Rugezi Swamp offers a unique safari experience with guided nature walks, boat tours, and community cultural experiences that provide visitors with a chance to interact with the local community and learn about their way of life. The nature walks through the swamp allow visitors to get up close and personal with the wildlife and experience the beautiful landscape. The boat tours provide a different perspective of the swamp and its surroundings, while the cultural experiences offer a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the local people.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Rugezi Swamp is during the dry season from June to September, which is also the peak tourist season. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the swamp is easier to explore due to the lack of rain. However, the park is open year-round and can be visited at any time.
Rugezi Swamp is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience Rwanda’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and variety of activities, it is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a different and authentic safari experience.
7. Lake Burera
Located in the northern part of Rwanda, Lake Burera is a stunning freshwater lake and an idyllic spot for visitors looking to unwind in a serene natural setting. Spanning an area of approximately 39 square kilometers, this picturesque lake is one of the region’s lesser-known but equally captivating attractions. With its scenic surroundings and abundance of activities, Lake Burera is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil retreat.
Landscape and Wildlife
Surrounded by rolling hills, Lake Burera boasts breathtaking views of the Rwandan countryside. The lake’s pristine waters are home to a variety of aquatic life, including tilapia and Nile perch, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. On the shores of the lake, visitors can marvel at the lush green vegetation that characterizes the area, including tall grasses and trees such as eucalyptus and acacia. While there isn’t much big game in the area, visitors can spot a variety of bird species, such as weaverbirds, kingfishers, and herons.
Safari Experience
Lake Burera is a great place to enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the lake, which is an excellent way to experience the area’s serene beauty. For a more leisurely experience, visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy a stunning sunset or an early morning sunrise. On land, visitors can hike around the lake and explore the surrounding hills or even visit local villages for a taste of traditional Rwandan culture.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Burera is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The dry season is also the perfect time to take a boat ride on the lake, as the water is calm and the views are stunning. However, visitors should be aware that the weather can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it’s important to pack warm clothing.
Lake Burera is a hidden gem in Rwanda’s northern region that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its tranquil surroundings and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking a serene retreat. Whether you’re looking to fish, kayak, hike, or simply relax and take in the views, Lake Burera is a must-visit destination in Rwanda.
FAQ
When choosing a safari package in Rwanda, consider your budget, preferred destination, type of animals you want to see, accommodation options, and the reputation of the tour operator.
Budget camping safaris and self-drive safaris are not common in Rwanda, but gorilla trekking tours can be relatively affordable.
Some of the most luxurious safari options in Rwanda include high-end lodges and exclusive guided tours.
While Rwanda is not the most family-friendly destination, some lodges do offer family rooms and child-friendly activities.
For the most adventurous safari options in Rwanda, consider gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and volcano hikes.
Romantic safari options in Rwanda include private lodges and secluded dinners with a view of the volcanoes.
Yes, Rwanda is a great destination for safari, particularly for those interested in gorilla trekking and other primate sightings.
The best time to safari in Rwanda is during the dry season, from June to September or December to February, when the weather is mild, and wildlife is easier to spot due to the thinner vegetation.
The cost of a safari in Rwanda depends on several factors, such as the length of the safari, the type of accommodation, and the number of people in the group. On average, a 3-4 day safari can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 per person.
The cost of a gorilla safari in Rwanda depends on several factors, such as the number of people in the group, the duration of the trek, and the time of year. On average, a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person, while the total cost of a gorilla safari can range from $3,000 to $8,000 per person.
