7 Best Safari Experiences in Rwanda

Rwanda, a country renowned for its primate-filled volcanic slopes, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offers some of the best safari experiences on the African continent. In this guide, we delve into the top seven safari experiences in Rwanda, promising unforgettable adventures for every traveler.

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, nestled on the far northwestern Rwandan border and part of the Virunga Mountains, is a haven for the endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in this misty forest is a highlight of any Rwanda safari, providing an intimate encounter with these gentle giants. As you venture through bamboo forests, open grasslands, and swamps, you’ll be captivated by the thousands of colorful butterflies and endemic birds that call this park home.

To partake in the gorilla trekking experience, visitors spend a night near the park entrance and join early morning trekking teams at the park headquarters in Kiningi. Led by knowledgeable local guides, small groups embark on an adventure into the forest, aiming to spend one precious hour with a habituated gorilla family while maintaining a safe distance and wearing facemasks.

Gorilla trekking permits are in high demand and come with a significant price tag (approximately $1500 per person), so it’s crucial to book well in advance. To ensure a seamless experience, travelers often enlist the services of tour operators like Trek Africa Expeditions to handle the logistics.

2. Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes

For an additional thrilling experience in Volcanoes National Park, consider joining the early morning golden monkey trekking groups. These tiny endangered primates are endemic to the Virunga region, offering a unique safari encounter. Similar to gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking involves hiking through the pristine wilderness of Mount Karisimbi and the bamboo forest on Mount Sabyinyo.

Treks start early at 07:00 from the visitor center in Kiningi and last half the day. The experience demands a moderate level of physical fitness, making it a rewarding adventure for enthusiasts seeking immersive encounters with Rwanda’s wildlife.

3. Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony

The Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony is an extraordinary annual festival inspired by Rwanda’s tradition of giving newborn babies names. Celebrated over a week in September, the event raises awareness and funds for the conservation of mountain gorillas and the expansion of their habitats. As a unique cultural celebration, the festival includes a conference, workshops, and the highlight—an official naming ceremony for the gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park over the past year.

Distinguished guests, conservationists, and local communities come together for this unforgettable event. Tribal names are assigned to the gorillas, representing their unique social traits and contributing to the preservation of Rwandan cultural heritage.

4. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, is a haven for chimpanzee tracking. Hiking through this untamed wilderness offers one of Rwanda’s best safari experiences. Early morning chimpanzee trekking adventures provide a chance to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

With two habituated chimpanzee groups to visit, small trekking groups set out from the park headquarters at 5:00 am. Spending almost half the day in the forest with expert guides and armed rangers, visitors can enjoy an up-close encounter with the chimpanzees. Chimpanzee trekking permits are available for approximately $90 per person and include an hour of close proximity to the primates.

5. Game Drives in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, thanks to robust wildlife conservation efforts, now boasts an array of big animals, including the Big Five. Game drives in this park offer a thrilling safari experience, bringing visitors close to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos, among others. The park’s wetlands, woodlands, and savannah plains, dotted with numerous lakes, create an enchanting landscape for wildlife viewing.

6. Hiking in the Virungas

The northeastern region of Rwanda, known as the Virungas, offers a unique natural beauty. From mist-enveloped volcanoes to dense rainforests harboring endangered species such as mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees, hiking in the Virungas is a remarkable safari experience.

Various hiking trails cater to different levels of hikers. From the relatively easy hike to the volcanic depression on Mount Bisoke, offering stunning views of Lake Ngezi, to the challenging two-day hike up Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest peak, there is an adventure for every nature enthusiast.

Visitors can also pay homage to the pioneering gorilla conservationist, Diane Fossey, by hiking to the Karisoke Research Centre, which lies between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi.

7. Kigali Cultural Experience

As Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, Kigali is a melting pot of local and international cultures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage through various festivals, such as the Kigali Fashion Week and the Rwanda Cultural Fashion Week. These events showcase the fusion of Rwandan and Western styles, highlighting the country’s finest designers.

Other cultural experiences in Kigali include the Kigali Up festival, celebrating cultural music, and the Rwanda Film Festival, showcasing the nation’s movie industry. The Kigali Cultural Village offers foodies a chance to savor local delicacies and shop for traditional crafts.

Museums and art galleries, such as the King’s Palace, Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda Art Museum, Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, and Museum of the Environment, provide a historical and educational experience for archaeologists and historians.

Booking Your Rwanda Safari Experiences

Trek Africa Expeditions offers expert assistance in organizing Rwanda safari trips, ensuring you have the best experience possible. From booking accommodations and permits to arranging transportation, they provide the latest information and personalized itineraries. Reach out to [email protected] for a free quote and to plan your unforgettable safari experiences in Rwanda.