Explore Rwanda Safari Tours: Costs, Top Activities & Must-See Attractions

Tiny Rwanda, also referred to as the land of a thousand hills and mountains is one of those African countries you should consider visiting at all costs for a gorilla trekking safari.

Rwanda is located in East Africa and is one of the smallest countries in the world.

The country is relatively small and has abundance in three national parks but what it has to offer is way bigger than this.

Despite its size, the country has a great diversity in the tourism industry. One of the oldest national parks in Africa – Volcanoes National Park (PNV) is found in Rwanda.

This is where you go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Nyungwe is one of the largest montane forests in East Africa where as Akagera features among those few national park that shelter the big five game animals.

The only canopy walk in East Africa is found in Nyungwe Forest.

The Gisenyi beaches offer one of the finest environments for relaxation.

These beaches are right at the shores of Lake Kivu – One of the deepest freshwater lakes in the world.

The Rwanda tours will let you explore and discover the true beauty of this hilly and mountainous nation.

Your safaris in Rwanda will be filled with ecstasy from the moment you set an eye on mountain gorillas to agony when you visit the respective genocide memorial monuments.

Rwanda Trip Cost

The Rwanda Tourism Industry

Since May 2017, Rwanda turned into a luxury gorilla tour destination when it doubled its permit prices from $750 to $1500 for all nationals.

The fee is now $800 and $1100 more than Uganda’s and Congo’s, respectively.

The edge Rwanda has over these countries is the short distance between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park and may be the good road network.

When you book Rwanda gorilla tours, you will only spend 2 hours on the road to Musanze and another 2 hours when returning to Kigali.

This distance is quite short compared to other countries.

Much as people refer to Rwanda as an expensive tour and travel destination, you can still enjoy affordable Rwanda safaris if only you plan your tour well.

The price might be a bit higher compared to what you would have spent in Uganda but it’s worth it.

Why Visit Rwanda?

Your main reason to go on a Rwanda safari should be primates and mountain gorilla trekking in particular.

Rwanda is one of the only three countries in the world with mountain gorillas.

This country is apparently where mountain gorilla conservation originated from.

Dian Fossey, an American zoologist and primatologist spent over three decades fighting for the conservation of gorillas in Rwanda.

This later spread to Uganda, Congo, and is still being exercised till today.

She is the main reason as to why you will go gorilla trekking in Rwanda today.

Rwanda is also a great place for game viewing. Akagera National Park has all the big five animals but unfortunately it’s the only Rwanda safari park you can visit for game viewing safaris.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a great place for chimpanzee trekking safaris and has the only canopy walk experience in East Africa.

The only downfall is, you have to be a bit lucky to see chimps here.

Most of the time you will only hear sounds of these primates and won’t exactly see them.

For a better chimpanzee trekking experience, you can visit Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park.

It’s easy to combine other countries with Rwanda safaris.

These include Uganda safaris, Congo safaris, Kenya safaris, Tanzania safaris and Zanzibar beach holidays.

You can also check out our combo gorilla trips.

Top Things to Do in Rwanda

• Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: Gorilla trekking is one of the main reasons tourists travel to the country. Volcanoes National Park offers an authentic gorilla trekking experience. Mountain gorillas are an endangered species of primates with fewer than 1200 individuals spread across four African national parks. You can trek one of the habituated mountain gorilla families in the park for a memorable lifetime experience with our closest relatives.
• Mountain Hiking in Rwanda: Rwanda has often been referred to as the ‘land of a thousand hills,’ and the country offers the best mountain climbing experience. Volcanoes National Park is home to 5 of the 8 Virunga massif volcanoes straddling across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Mount Karisimbi being the highest. The summits of these mountains offer superb views of the majestic countryside.

Gorilla safaris in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking Rwanda safaris take place from Volcanoes National Park; one of the oldest national parks in Africa. This Rwanda safari park in found in Musanze, a district located in the Northern province of the country.

This park is just 2 hours away from Kigali, the reason why so many clients prefer to trek gorillas in Rwanda compared to other countries.

No tourist would wish to travel for over 8 hours to get to a park with gorillas. When you choose to trek gorillas from Volcanoes National Park, you will save a lot of time. The only thing that might turn you away is the price of Rwanda gorilla permits.

These permits cost $1500 each in Rwanda, $800 each in Uganda, and $400 each in Congo.

Most clients that cannot afford gorilla trekking in Rwanda end up arriving from Kigali, trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and departing from Kigali. This way, they save both money and time.

We organize such kinds of trips. All you have to do is get in touch with us, and we shall send you a package with pricing.

How hard are Rwanda gorilla safaris?

Some clients might wish to have easier treks. If you are one of them, Rwanda is the place to go. The trek is not so hard like Uganda’s.

Most clients do not take long to locate gorillas in Rwanda. It’s only on minimal occasions where when clients take long without locating gorillas.

Most mountain gorilla families are easy to spot but all this depends on the mobility of gorillas. These apes are always on the move every other day, and if they climb up the mountain, then locating them can involve a hard trek.

Some families are naturally hard to locate, and you cannot choose the families to trek. The gorilla family allocation process is random, and you can only influence it if you have health issues or you are feeling unwell.

Even this requires proper documentation to convince the wardens. If you are old, you do not need any documentation. The wardens will assign for you an easy group to trek.

List of Rwanda National Parks & Things to See

Rwanda has abundance in four national parks and below are the three most visited parks in Rwanda.

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is the number one tourist destination in Rwanda.

It’s located in the northwestern part of the country, covering an area of 160 square kilometers.

Volcanoes National Park was first gazetted in 1925 as part of Albert National Park in Congo, covering only parts of Mount Karisimbi, Mount Mikeno, and Mount Bisoke.

The main aim was to protect the endangered mountain gorillas.

In 1929, the park was expanded into Belgian Congo and Rwanda, covering 8,090 square kilometers and run by the Belgian colonial government.

In 1958, 700 hectares of the park were cleared for human settlement, and another 1,050 hectares were cleared between 1969-1973 to grow pyrethrum.

The famous American primatologist, known as Dian Fossey, came to the park in 1967 to study and research mountain gorillas.

Dian Fossey worked tirelessly to study and protect mountain gorillas, which were almost extinct at that time.

She established the Karisoke Research Institute and put an end to poaching at Volcanoes National Park.

Unfortunately, she was murdered by unknown individuals in her cabin in 1985.

Volcanoes National Park headquarters was attacked in 1992, and most rangers and park staff were killed.

The park became a battlefield during the Rwandan genocide, leading to increased poaching, deforestation, bush burning, and other illegal activities.

The park was later reopened for tourism in 1999 and has since become safe to visit.

Volcanoes National Park is one of only four national parks where tourists can trek mountain gorillas in the world.

There are over 15 habituated mountain gorilla families you can visit while at the park.

A group of eight tourists is allowed to visit each mountain gorilla family daily.

Volcanoes National Park is also a birder’s paradise, boasting 180 species of recorded birds, with 16 of these species being Albertine Rift endemics.

Some examples of birds found in the park include Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Baglafecht Weaver, scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird, Rwenzori turaco, red-faced woodland warbler, Ladgden’s bush shrike, handsome francolin, Doherty’s bush shrike, brown-necked parrot, dusky crimson wing, African long-eared owl, and Archer’s Robin chat, among others.

Golden monkeys can also be tracked in Volcanoes National Park.

This unique species of monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Conservation Area in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

They live in troops of up to a hundred individuals in the lower slopes of the Virunga Mountains.

Read more about gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park here

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is the only Savannah national park in Rwanda, covering an area of 1,122 square kilometers.

The park derives its name from Kagera River, which flows within the park, bordering Tanzania.

The park is characterized by swamps, savannah grasslands, and montane areas.

It is the largest protected wetland in eastern-central Africa.

The park was established in 1934 by the colonial Belgian government and was also called “parc aux lycaons” because it hosted the highest population of African wild dogs.

Unfortunately, a disease broke out and killed all the African wild dogs, with the last one seen in 1984.

Black rhinos were introduced in the park in the 1950s from Tanzania, but all the rhinos were unfortunately poached, and the last one was seen in 2007.

In recent years, the park has made efforts to revive by reintroducing several animals and implementing conservation efforts.

Akagera National Park is home to various mammals, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

You can enjoy both day and night game drives in the park and see animals such as buffalos, elephants, zebras, duikers, bushbucks, Masai giraffes, klipspringer, defassa waterbucks, sitatungas, rhinos, lions, and many others.

Akagera National Park is the number one birding destination in Rwanda, with over 500 species of birds recorded.

Approximately 100 of those species can only be found in the park and not elsewhere in the country.

Some examples of birds found in the park are the short-tailed pipit, brown-chested lapwing, crested barbet, dimorphic egret, blue-shouldered Robin chat, Eleonora’s falcon, northern brown-throated weaver, amur falcon, and grasshopper buzzard, to name a few.

Akagera National Park offers three prescheduled boat cruises at the splendid Lake Ihema.

The boat cruises provide an opportunity to explore the lake’s flora and fauna, as well as spot water birds, crocodiles, and hippos up close.

Fishing at Akagera National Park can be done in designated areas of Lake Shakani.

The common species of fish caught are catfish and tilapia. You can enjoy your catch at your hotel for dinner, and fishing permits cost only $25 per day.

See Akagera safari tours here

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southeastern part of Rwanda, covering an area of 940 square kilometers.

Nyungwe is home to one of the oldest forests in Africa, boasting very rich biodiversity with 13 species of primates, 120 species of butterflies, 322 species of birds, 38 species of reptiles, 79 species of mammals, 1068 species of plants, 140 orchids, and much more.

Nyungwe Forest was almost extinct due to human activities such as wood cutting, bush fires, land clearing for settlement, and poaching.

In 1974, the last buffalo in Nyungwe Forest was killed.

The forest was later divided into areas allowing sustainable use and timber harvest by the government in 1984.

The Uwinka headquarters and several trails were set up in 1987 but were unfortunately destroyed during the Rwanda genocide of 1994.

Reconstruction and establishment started in 1995 but were not open to tourists.

The last elephant was killed by poachers in 1999, leading the government to establish Nyungwe as a national park in 2004 to protect primates and Afromontane rainforest.

Nyungwe Forest is the major water catchment area in Rwanda, supplying 70% of the country with water.

The canopy walkway is a must-see attraction in Nyungwe Forest.

The 200-meter-long trail, 50 meters above the forest cover, is the only one of its kind in East Africa.

The panoramic views of the last remaining Afromontane rainforest are breathtaking, and you can observe various primates and birdlife.

Chimpanzee trekking is the main activity in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

There are two habituated chimpanzee families for tourists to trek in the forest.

Chimpanzees are close relatives to humans, sharing 98% DNA with us.

You can book your permits in advance, and only a group of eight people is allowed to visit one family daily.

Nyungwe Forest National Park also hosts 310 species of birds, and there are various species you will spot.

Some of these include the white-headed wood hoopoe, Ross’s turaco, red-faced woodland warbler, paradise flycatcher, Rockefeller’s sunbird, Rwenzori turaco, mountain masked apalis, collared apalis, purple-breasted sunbird, great blue turaco, red-throated alethe, and gigantic forest hornbill, among others.

Hiking and nature-guided walks are popular activities in Nyungwe Forest.

There are 13 well-established trails, each leading to a superb destination.

Along the way, you will come across a variety of birds, plant species, and primates like owl-faced monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, and many more.

See Nyungwe forest tours here

Is Rwanda Safe to Visit?

Rwanda is generally a safe country to visit, but you should exercise caution when traveling to certain parts of the country, such as the borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Always check with security before traveling to such areas.

Although the country is safe, it’s advisable for all tourists to take safety measures as they would in their own country.

For example, avoid carrying and exposing large amounts of money, keep your valuable items secure and register them at the hotel where you’re staying.

Avoid using public transport and walking alone at night, and don’t leave valuables like passports inside the car.

The People & Culture of Rwanda

Compared to many African countries with diverse ethnic groups and cultures, Rwanda is home to three main groups of people: the Tutsi, the Hutu, and the Twa people, also known as Pygmies.

These three groups share a common language and cultural heritage.

The Rwandese people are famous for their Intore cultural dance, which is an integral part of their ceremonies, festivals, storytelling, and social gatherings.

Their cuisine consists of various staple foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, cassava, and more.

They also create traditional arts and crafts in most parts of the country.

See Rwanda cultural safaris here

Rwanda Visa & Entry Requirements

Nationals of all countries can obtain a Rwandan visa upon arrival at Kigali International Airport and all land borders.

Citizens of some countries that are members of certain international organizations will have their visa fees waived for a 30-day visit.

Citizens of East African Community member states shall be issued a free entry pass valid for 6 months.

Some countries will be granted a 90-day Visa free of charge.

Therefore, when applying or intending to travel to Rwanda, you need to first check which category of visa your country belongs to.

Visa applicants will need to fulfill certain requirements to complete the Rwandan application form.

These requirements include a valid passport or any other travel document, a yellow fever vaccination card, visa fees, financial requirements, two recent colored photographs with a white background, a business cover letter, a letter of invitation, and any other requirements that may be needed.

Best time to visit Rwanda

Rwanda can be visited all year round, but some months might be better if you’re visiting for specific activities like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, or game viewing.

If you’re planning to visit national parks for wildlife, then the best time is June to August and December to February when the weather is favorable for park activities.

The best time for birding is from November to April when migratory birds are present in the parks.

Where to Stay in Rwanda

When planning a visit to Rwanda, choosing the right place to stay is crucial for a memorable experience.

Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets.

In Kigali, the capital city, you can find luxurious hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels.

If you’re looking to be close to nature and wildlife, consider staying near the famous Volcanoes National Park, where you can find lodges and eco-friendly resorts.

Akagera National Park also offers comfortable safari lodges for those exploring the Savannah.

Nyungwe Forest National Park has charming lodges amidst lush greenery.

Rwanda’s accommodation options cater to every traveler, ensuring a pleasant stay while exploring this beautiful country.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rwanda Safari Tours

Here are popular frequently asked questions about Rwanda safaris and tours:

1. What is Rwanda known for in terms of tourism? Rwanda is famous for its gorilla trekking safaris, particularly in Volcanoes National Park.
2. Why is Rwanda called the ‘land of a thousand hills’? Rwanda is characterized by its mountainous and hilly terrain, hence the name ‘land of a thousand hills.’
3. What are the main national parks in Rwanda? Rwanda has three main national parks: Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park.
4. Where can I go gorilla trekking in Rwanda? Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is conducted in Volcanoes National Park.
5. How much does a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit cost? The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1500.
6. What other primates can be found in Rwanda besides gorillas? Rwanda is home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and golden monkeys, particularly in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
7. How long does it take to travel from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park? The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes about 2 hours.
8. What is unique about Nyungwe Forest National Park? Nyungwe Forest is home to East Africa’s only canopy walk and is one of the largest montane forests in East Africa.
9. Can I see the Big Five in Rwanda? Yes, Akagera National Park is home to the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos.
10. Is Rwanda expensive for safaris? While Rwanda is often considered a luxury destination, affordable safaris can be planned with proper budgeting.
11. What is the best time to visit Rwanda for a safari? The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February.
12. What other activities can I do in Rwanda besides gorilla trekking? Activities include hiking, canopy walks, chimpanzee trekking, and game drives in Akagera National Park.
13. What is the significance of Dian Fossey in Rwanda? Dian Fossey was a pioneering primatologist who worked to conserve Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.
14. Can I combine a Rwanda safari with trips to other countries? Yes, you can combine a Rwanda safari with trips to Uganda, Congo, Kenya, and Tanzania.
15. What animals can I see in Akagera National Park? Akagera is home to elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and many other wildlife species.
16. What is the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest? The canopy walk is a 200-meter-long trail suspended 50 meters above the ground, offering panoramic views of the forest.
17. How can I access Rwanda? Rwanda can be accessed via Kigali International Airport, and visas are available on arrival for most countries.
18. Is Rwanda safe for tourists? Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists.
19. How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda? Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is generally considered easier compared to Uganda, but it depends on the location of the gorilla families.
20. What are the best accommodations in Rwanda for a safari? Rwanda offers a range of accommodations, including luxury lodges near national parks and budget-friendly guesthouses in Kigali.
21. How many mountain gorillas are left in the world? There are fewer than 1200 mountain gorillas remaining, spread across Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.
22. What birds can be seen in Rwanda’s national parks? Rwanda is home to over 700 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and the red-faced woodland warbler.
23. What is the distance between Kigali and Akagera National Park? Akagera National Park is approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Kigali.
24. Can I see chimpanzees in Rwanda? Yes, chimpanzee trekking is available in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
25. What is the climate like in Rwanda? Rwanda has a temperate tropical climate, with a rainy season from March to May and October to November.
26. How can I save money on a Rwanda safari? You can save money by combining a Rwanda safari with gorilla trekking in Uganda or Congo, where permits are cheaper.
27. Are there beaches in Rwanda? Yes, Gisenyi offers beautiful beaches along the shores of Lake Kivu.
28. Can I track golden monkeys in Rwanda? Yes, golden monkeys can be tracked in Volcanoes National Park.
29. What cultural experiences can I enjoy in Rwanda? Visitors can experience Rwandan culture through traditional Intore dances and visits to local communities.
30. What are the entry requirements for Rwanda? A valid passport and a yellow fever vaccination card are required, and visas can be obtained on arrival for most nationalities.