Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” unfolds its rich tapestry of biodiversity through three captivating wildlife destinations: Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park. Each of these unique locations offers distinct fauna and exceptional wildlife encounters, making Rwanda a premier destination for luxury wildlife safaris. While the country is renowned for its mountain gorillas, there is a world of other natural wonders and experiences awaiting discovery.
Volcanoes National Park stands as a sanctuary for several hundred mountain gorillas, a species that shares about 98% of its DNA with humans, creating an unparalleled connection. This park is home to a dozen habituated gorilla groups, making it possible for a total of 96 tracking permits to be issued daily. However, gorillas are not the sole stars of the show. The park also hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including the golden monkey, another Albertine Rift Endemic, as well as elephants, buffaloes, giant forest hogs, bushpigs, bushbucks, and black-fronted duikers. Beyond the wildlife, Volcanoes National Park is a realm of natural wonder, offering a myriad of attractions to explore.
Nyungwe Forest National Park, renowned as the most biodiverse site in Rwanda, stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Within its bounds, Nyungwe protects over 1,050 plant species, providing a lush tapestry of flora for visitors to immerse themselves in. The park also boasts an impressive fauna, with 85 mammal species, 310 bird species, 32 amphibian species, and 38 reptile species recorded within its pristine forests. However, it’s the 13 primate species that truly steal the spotlight. Among them are the chimpanzee, Ruwenzori colobus, L’Hoest’s monkey, silver monkey, owl-faced monkey, red-tailed monkey, Dent’s monkey, crowned monkey, Vervet monkey, olive baboon, potto, and at least two species of bushbaby. The elusive leopard, a member of the Big Five, is present but rarely glimpsed. Antelope species include bushbuck and three types of duiker. At night, the haunting call of the tree hyrax adds a mysterious ambiance to the forest.
Akagera National Park provides a classic African savannah experience, where the iconic Big Five – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, and black rhino – roam freely. Buffaloes and elephants are commonly sighted, and recent years have witnessed an increase in leopard sightings during night drives. Lion and black rhino, both reintroduced in 2015 and 2017, respectively, are steadily gaining visibility. The park also hosts an impressive roster of wildlife, including Masai giraffes, Burchell’s zebras, warthogs, olive baboons, Vervet monkeys, hippos, impalas, Defassa waterbucks, bushbucks, common duikers, elands, topis, Bohor reedbucks, oribis, roan antelopes, klipspringers, and the elusive semi-aquatic Sitatunga. Night drives reveal the park’s nocturnal denizens, including spotted hyenas, genets, civets, white-tailed mongooses, bushbabies, elephant-shrews, and various species of owls and nightjars.
To truly savor the best of Rwanda’s national parks, plan your luxury wildlife safaris during the long dry season, which spans from mid-May to mid-October. This season offers ideal conditions for gorilla tracking and wildlife encounters, with temperate weather and comfortable temperatures. Despite having four distinct seasons, Rwanda’s moderate climate, compact size, proximity to the equator, and high altitude maintain a fresh highland atmosphere with consistent temperatures. Daytime averages typically reach around 30°C or 86°F, while the capital city of Kigali enjoys a comfortable average temperature of 21°C or 70°F. Whether you seek gorilla trekking, game viewing, or cultural immersion, Rwanda offers a year-round travel paradise, and its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife await your discovery.
Don’t miss the chance to embark on luxurious wildlife safaris in Rwanda, where nature’s wonders come together to create unforgettable memories. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions now and start your journey into the heart of Rwanda’s pristine wilderness, where mountain gorillas, captivating wildlife, and cultural treasures await your exploration.