RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARIS & TOURS IN TOP RWANDA WILDLIFE SAFARI PARKS

Rwanda wildlife safaris & tours in top Rwanda wildlife safari parks offer thrilling encounters with endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, forest elephants, and Big Five animals in the country’s iconic wildlife safari parks—Parc National des Volcans, Akagera, Nyungwe Forest, etc.—for lasting memories.

This landlocked nation in East Africa, known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, with a total population of about 11,262,564 people according to the 2015 population census, bordered by Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, boasts rich biodiversity, with diverse primate species, bird species, and other wildlife.

Rwanda features diverse geography, including savanna grasslands and fertile land, with about 46% classified as arable. The country is home to three main safari parks—Akagera, Nyungwe, and Volcanos—along with the recently opened Gishwati Forest Park, which began welcoming tourists in 2019.

From Rwanda gorilla trekking tours to game drives, canopy walks, boat cruises, and cultural tours, Rwanda safaris promise unforgettable experiences in its spectacular natural habitat and scenic landscapes.

Let us give you a detailed breakdown of what the Rwandan wildlife tours encompass!

World-Class Tourist Destinations in Rwanda to Explore for Remarkable Wildlife Safari Tours | Where Can I See Animals in Rwanda? 

Some of the fascinating places to visit in Rwanda for the best wildlife Rwanda trips include.

Volcanoes National Park (A Rwanda Gorilla Safari Hub) 

Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is the crown jewel of Rwandan wildlife safaris and the top gorilla safari destination in East Africa and Africa at large.

Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, this national park shelters 12 habituated gorilla families, over 3,000 golden monkeys, and various bird species.

Other attractions include the Karisoke Research Center, Crater Lake Bisoke, and Ibyiwacu Cultural Village.

Visitors can enjoy unforgettable gorilla tracking adventures, golden monkey trekking, birding tours, and volcano hikes in Rwanda.

Parc National des Volcans is easily accessible by road, with a scenic drive from Kigali City taking approximately two hours.

A Rwanda gorilla permit costs $1,500—an investment for a life-changing gorilla safari!

Akagera National Park (Home of the Big Five) 

Established in 1934, Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah national park, covering approximately 1,122 square kilometers, and the best place to see the Big Five on Rwandan wildlife safaris.

Located in the eastern province of Rwanda with a diverse ecosystem including savannah grasslands and lakes, this park hosts lions, 25 black eastern rhinos, 100 savannah elephant species, leopards, and buffalo, along with other wildlife species like Maasai giraffes, Burchell’s zebras, hippos, and ~480 bird species.

Land Activities in Akagera, a park that can be reached just around two and a half hours from Kigali City, include guided day and night game drives (costing USD 30 for day drives and USD 40 for night drives), boat cruise tours mainly on L. Ihema, birdwatching, guided nature walks to explore the flora & fauna, and cultural experiences.

It is worth noting that morning drives in Akagera NP found just 110 kilometers from Kigali city, offer great chances to see rhinos, buffalo, and the elephant, while evening drives are ideal for spotting predators like lions and leopards.

With open plains and lakes, Akagera is perfect for a classic wildlife safari experience in Rwanda.

Nyungwe Forest National Park (A Chimpanzee Trekking Paradise) 

Nyungwe Forest National Park, covering an area of about 1,020 square kilometers of rain forest, is a forest national park in southwest Rwanda, renowned for Rwanda chimp tracking tours and canopy walks.

It shelters 500+ chimpanzees, 13 primate species, forest elephants, rare bird species, and over 1,000 plant species worth seeing on a wildlife safari in Rwanda.

Enjoy thrilling nature walks on 130 km of hiking trails (lasting between 1 and 8 hours with costs at USD 40), spot white colobus monkeys, and take on the Nyungwe Forest canopy walk—200 meters above the forest floor and lasting for about 2 hours.

A Rwandan wildlife tour here offers unique encounters with other primate species and breathtaking biodiversity.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park 

Gishwati-Mukura is Rwanda’s newest safari park and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

This small yet rich forest national park is home to eastern chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, worth seeing on a wildlife safari in Rwanda.

Its location along the Albertine Rift adds to its appeal. Bird lovers can explore over 84 bird species, including the grey-crowned crane.

Waterfall hikes, monkey tracking, and cultural experiences are among the top activities.

Visit this park for a peaceful and immersive wildlife safari away from crowded trails.

Lake Kivu 

1. Kivu, Rwanda’s largest freshwater lake, offers serene beauty and thrilling adventures along the Congo-Nile divide.

Located on Rwanda’s western border, it supports bird species, fishing villages, and visits to the nearby forest safari parks like Nyungwe during wildlife excursions in Rwanda.

Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, birdwatching, nature walks, sport fishing, and visits to Nyamirundi Island coffee farms.

2. Kivu is ideal for relaxing after intense gorilla treks or chimp tracking tours in Rwanda.

Don’t miss this gem on your Rwanda tours for tranquil waterside safaris.

Congo Nile Divide Trail 

The Congo Nile Trail is a 227-km adventure route stretching along L. Kivu’s shores, ideal for hiking, biking, and cultural interaction on Rwandan wildlife safaris.

It links scenic towns like Gisenyi and Kamembe, passing through lush hills, tea plantations, and local villages.

Wildlife lovers can enjoy bird species, primate sightings near forest edges, and boat cruises on L. Kivu.

The trail blends nature with community tourism, making it a must-do for travelers wanting to explore Rwanda’s thousand hills on foot.

OTHER PLACES TO EXPLORE ON RWANDA TRIPS FOR A REMARKABLE WILDLIFE SAFARI

Enhance your Rwandan wildlife safari with visits to Kigali City attractions like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamirambo Women’s Center, and Kimironko Market.

Alternatively, explore powerful genocide memorial centers in Gisozi, Murambi, Nyamata, and more.

Hike scenic heights like Karisimbi and Bisoke, and engage with Rwanda’s rich traditions at cultural villages such as Ibyiwacu and Banda.

Discover vibrant cities including Gisenyi (L. Kivu), Ruhengeri (Parc National des Volcans), and Cyangugu (Nyungwe), each offering unique wildlife, history, and cultural experiences across Rwanda.

A safari in Rwanda to any of these destinations is always timeless!

Wildlife Species in Rwanda: Key Highlights of a Wildlife Tour in Rwanda | What Wildlife Is in Rwanda? 

Mountain Gorillas 

Mountain gorillas are Rwanda’s star attraction, drawing thousands for unforgettable gorilla watching in Parc National des Volcans.

These endangered primates live in the lush Virungas, often spotted in habituated family groups that comprise females, silverbacks, black backs, juveniles and sometimes a young gorilla (infants).

Gorilla watching in Rwanda offers intimate views of mountain gorillas in their home—an unmatched highlight of Rwandan wildlife safaris.

Chimpanzees 

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park offers thrilling encounters with Rwanda’s intelligent primates, the Chimpanzees.

With over 500 chimpanzees, this thick rainforest in western Rwanda is the best place to spot them.

Visitors enjoy guided walks through the forest, watching these lively primates in action—a key experience on any Rwandan wildlife excursion.

Golden Monkeys 

The Golden monkey species in Parc National des Volcans is a lively and colorful addition to Rwanda’s fauna seen during wildlife safaris.

These endangered, energetic primates are known for their striking golden-orange fur and social behavior.

Often found in bamboo forests, golden monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and add charm to every primate-focused Rwanda holiday.

The Big Five 

Akagera NP, Rwanda’s only savannah national park, is home to the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos that are worth seeing during a wildlife holiday in Rwanda.

These large mammals thrive in open grasslands and woodlands. Game drives here offer a classic African safari feel and make Akagera an essential stop on any Rwandan wildlife or safari tour.

Bird Species 

Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 700 recorded bird species across its safari parks.

1. Ihema, Nyungwe NP, and Akagera Park offer sightings of shoebills, papyrus gonoleks, and Albertine Rift endemics.

Birding tours in Rwanda are ideal year-round and complement both primate trekking and game drives in forest and savannah landscapes.

Other Wildlife Species

Beyond gorillas and the Big Five, Rwanda hosts giraffes, zebras, jackals, crocodiles, hippos, antelope species, hyenas, and forest elephants that you can not miss on any wildlife-focused vacation in Rwanda.

These animals thrive in Akagera NP, Parc National des Volcans, and Nyungwe NP.

Game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and nature walks provide up-close experiences of Rwanda’s diverse and thriving wildlife species.

Other Primates 

Rwanda shelters 13 primate species, including L’Hoest’s monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, olive baboons, and vervet monkeys.

Most primates are found in Nyungwe NP and Volcanoes National Park.

Rwandan wildlife excursions often combine chimp tracking with golden monkey trekking for a rich, forest-based primate experience in lush rainforest habitats.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS TO EXPLORE IN RWANDA BESIDES WILDLIFE DURING SAFARI EXCURSIONS

A Rwandan wildlife safari isn’t just about animals. On Rwanda tours, travelers can explore genocide memorial centers like Gisozi and Murambi to understand Rwanda’s patriotic history.

In Kigali City, visit the Genocide Memorial, Umusambi Village, and local craft markets.

Trek scenic Rwandan Virungas like Karisimbi and Bisoke, or engage in cultural experiences at Ibyiwacu Cultural Village and Banda.

Discover forest safari parks, beautiful landscapes, Lake Kivu’s boat cruises, and the Congo Nile Trail—all enriching your Rwanda safari experience.

Outstanding Things to Do in Rwanda for Ultimate Wildlife Safari Excursions 

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park 

Gorilla watching in Parc National des Volcans is the most iconic Rwandan wildlife safari experience. Visitors hike through the Virunga Mountains, encountering mountain gorillas in their natural park habitat.

Mountain Gorilla walking in Parc National des Volcans costs USD 1,500 per permit and is limited to visitors aged 15 and above.

The park is home to around 17 gorilla groups, though only 10 are available for tourism. Treks are conducted in small groups of up to eight people, who are allowed one hour with a gorilla troop/group.

The experience involves challenging hikes through dense forest and steep terrain.

This unforgettable adventure allows a close-up view of a gorilla family or gorilla group, making gorilla watching Rwanda’s top wildlife activity.

Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park 

Tracking endemic monkey species in Volcanoes National Park is a thrilling primate experience alongside gorilla treks, worth doing for the best wildlife trips in Rwanda.

These playful, endangered monkeys live in bamboo forests within the Virunga Mountains.

On your Rwandan wildlife safari, observe their vibrant golden-orange fur and acrobatic behavior in their natural habitat, ideal for wildlife photography and adventure.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park 

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park is a highlight for those exploring Rwanda’s rich forest habitats for the best wildlife holidays in Rwanda.

Track these intelligent primates in dense rain forest, and spot the other thirteen primate species, like L’hoest’s monkey and the owl-faced monkey.

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe NP costs USD 60 per individual. The activity starts at 8 a.m. from three main entry points: Uwinka, Kitabi, and Gisakura.

Chimp tracking also offers a chance to see rare birds and forest wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing and Game Drive Safaris 

Wildlife viewing and game drives in Akagera National Park let you explore Rwanda’s only savannah national park, home to the Big Five: the elephant, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

You’ll also see burchell’s zebra, giraffes, hippos, and more. Guided game viewing and drives offer the best way to witness these majestic animals and the wild landscapes of eastern Rwanda.

Birding Tours in Rwanda 

Rwanda is a paradise for birders. Birding tours in Nyungwe National Park, Volcanoes NP, and Akagera NP feature over 700 birds.

It is worth noting that in the central & southern regions, Nyungwe NP is one of Africa’s premier birdwatching destinations (top forest ornithological sites in Africa), rich in endemic species and offering a daily birding permit for USD 50 per individual per day.

The Rugezi Marsh hosts Rwanda’s largest breeding population of grey crowned cranes.

Meanwhile, Akagera NP is known for its diverse raptors, waterbirds, and savannah and woodland types, making Rwanda a top spot for bird enthusiasts.

Look out for Albertine Rift endemics like the Great Blue Turaco, Rwenzori Turaco, and Regal Sunbirds. Around L. Kivu and L. Ihema, spot aquatic birds on your Rwanda safari.

Community And Cultural Experiences 

Rwanda’s cultural experiences allow deeper connections with local communities as well as offer thrilling wildlife-spotting encounters.

At the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village, enjoy traditional dances and music by local women and villagers. Learn about local habitat conservation and the coexistence of people and wildlife.

These enriching activities enhance your wildlife safaris with cultural depth and personal encounters in the country.

 Touring Rwanda Genocide Memorial Sites

Visiting Rwanda genocide memorial centers like Gisozi, Nyamata, and Murambi provides historical context to your Rwanda vacation.

These solemn landmarks reflect the resilience of the country and its people. Many Rwandan wildlife safari itineraries respectfully include these memorials, offering a powerful balance of natural wonder and human history during your trip.

OTHER ACTIVITIES DURING RWANDAN WILDLIFE TOURS

Beyond safaris, visitors can hike volcanoes in the Virunga massif, take part in game viewing excursions, track monkeys in Volcanos NP (golden), or tour Karisoke Research Centre. Adventure lovers can climb Mount Karisimbi or enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Kivu.

Partake in any of these safari activities for unforgettable Rwandan wildlife safaris that blend wildlife, forest, and cultural diversity for every traveler.

Top-Rated Rwanda Hotels and Safari Lodges to Stay at During Wildlife Safari Excursions in Rwanda 

Whether you’re on a Rwandan wildlife safari in Volcanoes NP, Akagera National Park, or Nyungwe Forest, this country offers exceptional accommodation—luxury, midrange, and budget—that elevates every wildlife tour experience.

Rwanda Luxury Lodges & Hotels

Enjoy upscale comfort at Rwanda’s best luxury safari accommodations, like Bisate Lodge, Magashi Camp, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Rusizi Tented Lodge, and One&Only Nyungwe House, among others, ideal for gorilla watching, exploring safari parks, or Rwanda wildlife holidays.

Rwanda Midrange Lodges & Hotels 

Midrange safari accommodation, such as Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp, and Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, among many others, offers balanced comfort, perfect for Rwanda safaris near game park landscapes and forest trails.

Rwanda Budget Lodges & Hotels 

Budget travelers on Rwanda wildlife tours enjoy clean, cozy stays at Kinigi Guesthouse, Gisakura Guesthouse, and Akagera Rhino Lodge, offering access to park adventures, wildlife spotting, and local community interactions.

Liaise with a reputable tour operator to book any of these accommodation options for you in advance, especially during peak seasons!

Rwanda Wildlife Safari Prices 

Activity/Permit	Location / Park	Price (USD)
Gorilla Permit (grants 1 hour with gorillas)	Volcanos NP	$1,500 per person
Chimpanzee Trekking Permit	Nyungwe National Park	$60 per person
Golden Monkey Tracking (grants 1 hour of observation)	Parc National des Volcans	$100 per person
Game Drive (Day/Night)	Akagera NP	$30–$180
Boat Safari on L. Ihema	Akagera NP	$40–$60
Park Entry Fees	All Rwanda National Parks	$50–$100
Full Safari Package (3–10 days)	Rwanda Wildlife Safari (All Parks)	$6,000–$7,700+

For actual pricing, consult a reputable tour operator!

How To Get to Rwanda for A Wildlife Safari Holiday? 

Reaching Rwanda for a wildlife safari is very easy, with Kigali serving as the main entry point for most visitors traveling to this nation.

Fly into Kigali International Airport from major cities or cross borders from UG or TZ.

Access top national parks like Parc National des Volcans, Akagera NP, and Nyungwe National Park via road or charter flights operated by Akagera Aviation, among other operators.

Use car rentals, buses, or private transfers to explore.

Plan with a trusted wildlife safari operator or the Rwanda Development Board to book your gorilla watching, monkey trekking, and other unforgettable Rwanda adventures.

Best Time to Go to Rwanda for Wildlife Trips in Africa 

Wildlife safaris in the country are available year-round, but the dry season—June to September and December to February—is ideal for gorilla treks in Parc National des Volcans, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park, and game drives in Akagera NP, among other outdoor activities.

Trails are drier, animals gather near water, and sightings are frequent during this dry season.

For birders, the wet months (green season) offer lush scenery.

Book early with the Rwanda Development Board to secure your gorilla permit and enjoy the best of Rwanda tours.

What To Wear for A Safari in Rwanda to See Wildlife Species 

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers – For protection from insects and thorny bushes and trees.
• Sturdy hiking boots – Essential for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
• Gardening gloves—Useful when grabbing vegetation or trees during treks.
• Light waterproof jacket – For unexpected rain showers in the rainforests.
• Neutral-colored clothing – Helps avoid alarming wildlife.
• Sunhat or cap – Protects against direct sunlight on game drives.
• Warm layers—Needed for chilly mornings in the Volcanos and Nyungwe wildlife safari parks.
• Comfortable sandals – Great for relaxing at lodges or city walks.

What To Pack for A Safari in Rwanda to See Wild Fauna? 

• Insect repellent – To guard against bites in forested areas.
• Birding Binoculars and camera – For spotting wildlife and birds at a distance.
• Waterproof Day backpack – To carry essentials during treks and walks.
• Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated in the wild.
• Sunscreen and lip balm – UV protection, especially at high altitudes.
• Travel documents and Rwanda gorilla permits – Required for park entry and trekking.
• Personal medications and first-aid kit – For safety and health.
• Power bank and device chargers – For phones, cameras, and GPS.
• Local currency (Rwandan Franc)—Useful for tips and small purchases.
• Toiletries and hand sanitizer – For hygiene during your trip.

For the most recommended packing list that can even be used for extended trips to Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the DR Congo, contact your travel agent!

Top Rwanda Tour Operators to Reserve with Your Wildlife Safari 

The following tour companies offer the greatest Rwanda wildlife trips; reserve your Rwanda safari holiday with them:

1. Prime Safaris And Tours Ltd
2. Wild Gorilla Safaris
3. Gorilla Safari Rwanda
4. Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris
5. Gorilla Tracking Rwanda
6. Africa Safaris Tours

It is important to note Rwanda’s luxury safaris are led by expert guides, offering curated journeys that combine exclusive wildlife encounters with meaningful village interactions.

With the tourism industry rapidly expanding, interest in high-end safari experiences continues to grow.

These can also help tourists to book Rwanda tours as well as arrange tour packages to other destinations, e.g., Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the DR Congo tour packages!

The Best Rwanda Wildlife Tour Packages 

• 7-day Uganda and Rwanda safari, Mount Karisimbi, Mountain Gorillas, Wildlife & Chimpanzees
• 8-day Uganda-Rwanda trip, Wildlife & Gorilla trek
• 11 Days Uganda and Rwanda Vacation—game viewing, Mountain Gorillas, Mount Karisimbi, Chimpanzees & Golden Monkeys

Whether interested in short, long, group, or private safari trips, the Rwanda tour operators can help you out!

Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tours: Commonly Asked Questions 

1. Is Rwanda Good for A Safari? 

Yes! Rwanda is good for holidays, as it often offers unforgettable land experiences, from seeing mountain gorillas in Parc National des Volcans to spotting the Big Five in Akagera National Park and chimpanzees in Nyungwe NP forests. It’s one of Africa’s top safari destinations.

2. Why Choose a Wildlife Safari in Rwanda? 

A wildlife safari in Rwanda combines lush national parks, rich wildlife like golden monkeys and the elephant, and unforgettable gorilla trekking, enabling travelers to enjoy beautiful landscapes, luxury lodges, and cultural experiences in a safe, welcoming country in Africa.

3. How Much Is a Safari in Rwanda? 

Rwanda safari tours range from $1,000 to over $6,000. A gorilla trekking permit alone costs $1,500, set by the Rwanda Development Board. Prices depend on safari type, accommodation, and trip length in the country.

4. What Is the Big Five Safari in Rwanda?

It is a vacation that lets tourists see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard) that live in Akagera National Park, Rwanda. Game drives here let you see these other large mammals along with giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species during the Big Five safari.

5. How Safe Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda? 

Gorilla trekking in Parc National des Volcans is very safe. Armed rangers and experienced guides from the Rwanda Development Board ensure a secure, respectful visit to habituated gorilla families.

6. Is Rwanda or Uganda Better for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda, though costly, offers the best luxury, easier access, and shorter treks in Volcanoes National Park, while Uganda is more budget-friendly, with more gorilla families. Both provide amazing mountain gorilla encounters in the Virungas, so to determine which one is better depends on one’s budget and preferences.

7. What Is the Best Time to Go to Rwanda?

Visit Rwanda during the dry seasons: June–September or December–February. This is the best time for gorilla trekking, game drives, and golden monkey tracking due to clear trails and great visibility.

8. Does Rwanda Have Safaris? 

Yes, Rwanda has many safaris that are among Africa’s finest. Explore Parc National des Volcans, Akagera, and Nyungwe national parks—each offering rich biodiversity, primates, birds, and game drives through stunning scenery during safari-like canopy walk trips, gorilla trekking excursions, chimp tracking, birding tours, boat cruise trips, etc.

9. Are There Wild Animals in Rwanda?

Definitely! The Land of a Thousand Hills is home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, lions, the elephant, antelopes, and more. You’ll find these species across the four major national parks in diverse habitats.

10. What Are the Big Five Animals in Rwanda? 

The Lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo make up Rwanda’s Big Five. Akagera National Park is the best and only place to see them on wildlife safari game drives.

11. Can You See Lions in Rwanda? 

Yes, lions were reintroduced to Akagera National Park and now roam freely. You can see them during early morning or evening game drives.

12. Are There Wolves in Rwanda?

No, Rwanda has no wolves. Instead, you’ll find jackals, hyenas, and rare primates like golden monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, and l’hoest’s monkeys.

13. What Wildlife Does Rwanda Have? 

Rwandan wildlife includes gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, the elephant, giraffes, zebras, leopards, and over 700 bird species, including the Albertine Rift endemic species across its rainforests, lakes, and savannah parks.

14. What Are the National Animals of Rwanda? 

Rwanda has no official animal, but the mountain gorilla symbolizes its conservation success. Gorilla trekking is a major highlight of any wildlife safari tour in Rwanda.

Reach out to us and let us plan your next wildlife holiday in Rwanda for lasting memories!