Rwanda
Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of the most breathtaking countries in East Africa. Despite its small size, Rwanda offers an impressive array of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, making it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a unique safari experience. Rwanda is perhaps most famous for its mountain gorillas, but the country also boasts stunning national parks, wildlife reserves, and scenic landscapes that make it an ideal destination for a variety of safari activities.
Trips to Inspire
Safari Activities in Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking
The most famous safari activity in Rwanda, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park provides an intimate and unforgettable experience with mountain gorillas. This activity is closely regulated to ensure the safety of both the gorillas and visitors, with only a limited number of permits available each day. Tracking these endangered creatures through the misty forest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it remains the top reason many travelers visit Rwanda.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Nyungwe Forest National Park is the premier destination for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda. Visitors have the chance to track and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural forest habitat. The forest is home to many other primates, but seeing a family of chimpanzees up close is a truly special experience.
Game Drives
Akagera National Park offers classic African safari game drives, where visitors can spot the Big Five and other wildlife, such as zebras, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are the best times for wildlife sightings, as animals are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
Birdwatching
Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 700 species recorded across the country. In particular, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, and the shores of Lake Kivu provide great birding opportunities. Rare species like the shoebill stork can also be found in some areas, attracting bird enthusiasts from all over the world.
Canopy Walks
In Nyungwe Forest National Park, visitors can take a thrilling canopy walk, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor. The walk offers incredible views of the forest and an opportunity to spot birds and other wildlife from a unique perspective.
Cultural Experiences
Rwanda’s cultural experiences offer a deeper understanding of the country’s history and traditions. Visitors can tour local villages, participate in traditional dances, and learn about the work being done to preserve Rwanda’s wildlife and environment. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial is also an important experience, offering profound insights into the country’s history and resilience.
Destinations To Visit in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, is one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations. It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and tracking these magnificent creatures is the primary safari activity here. The park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which stretches across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can embark on gorilla trekking expeditions to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park also offers spectacular views of volcanic peaks like Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and Mount Muhabura.
Aside from gorilla trekking, visitors can explore the park through golden monkey tracking, hiking to the Dian Fossey Tomb (a tribute to the late gorilla conservationist), and enjoying scenic walks around the park’s lakes and waterfalls.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park, situated in the eastern part of Rwanda, offers a completely different safari experience compared to the mountainous landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. This park is a vast savannah reserve home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos). Akagera is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 500 bird species, including the rare papyrus gonolek.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, walking safaris, and birdwatching in this remarkable park. The park’s picturesque lakes and wetlands add to the overall beauty of the landscape, offering a peaceful and immersive safari experience.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, and it’s a biodiversity hotspot that attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys, making it an excellent destination for primate safaris. The dense forest also hosts over 300 bird species and numerous plant species, some of which are endemic.
Nyungwe offers chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, birdwatching, and nature hikes through its lush forest. The canopy walk, a suspension bridge that offers panoramic views of the forest, is one of the park’s standout attractions.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
This relatively new national park, which was officially opened in 2015, lies in the western part of Rwanda and is part of the Gishwati-Mukura Forest Reserve. Known for its conservation efforts, this park is home to a range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and a variety of bird species. The forest provides a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to connect with nature.
Visitors can enjoy guided forest walks and wildlife sightings, with a focus on eco-tourism and conservation efforts in this newly protected area.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda
Rwanda can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your specific interests.
Gorilla Trekking:
- The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and trekking conditions are more comfortable. However, it is important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and rain showers can occur at any time of the year.
Wildlife Safaris:
- For game drives in Akagera National Park, the dry season from June to September is ideal, as animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The wet season, from October to May, sees lush vegetation and fewer tourists, but animals may be harder to find due to the thick foliage and abundance of food.
Chimpanzee Trekking and Birdwatching:
- November to April is a good time for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, as the forest is lush and green, and wildlife sightings are frequent. Birdwatchers may also want to visit during the wet season, as this is when migratory birds arrive in the country.
Rwanda is an exceptional safari destination that combines stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re trekking through mist-covered mountains to see endangered gorillas or enjoying a relaxing boat ride on Lake Kivu, Rwanda offers something for every type of traveler. Its well-preserved national parks and commitment to conservation make it one of the most rewarding and responsible safari destinations in Africa. With its welcoming people, pristine landscapes, and an array of safari activities, Rwanda truly deserves its place as one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations.