What to Expect on Safari in Rwanda

Unveiling the Wonders of a Safari in Rwanda: What to Expect

Embarking on a safari in Rwanda is an extraordinary celebration of natural wonders and sustainable tourism. This small nation, proudly flying the flag of conservation, offers a remarkable safari experience, with its main attraction being the primates that roam its volcanic slopes. Rwanda‘s rich cultural heritage and the unity of its people add to the allure of this captivating destination.

The prime tourist attractions in Rwanda are primarily concentrated in the far west of the country along the western arm of the Albertine Rift, which borders Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Uganda. As the rift valley traverses western Rwanda, it leaves behind exceptional geographic features such as Lake Kivu and the Virunga Mountains Range, which are of great interest to adventurers, landscape enthusiasts, holidaymakers, hikers, and more.

Along the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, you can expect thrilling moments spent with endangered mountain gorillas and troops of golden monkeys. In the vicinity of Lake Kivu, many tourists choose to spend idyllic holidays, basking in the beauty of the misty rainforests after their gorilla encounters.

For those seeking to delve deeper into the country’s pristine jungles, Nyungwe Forest National Park, further south, is a captivating destination. This ancient rainforest is home to troops of chimpanzees and a dozen other primate species, making it a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Rwanda, despite its small size comparable to Maryland, offers much more than meets the eye. In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the details of what you should expect on a safari in Rwanda, exploring the country’s wonders in all their glory.

Expect Enchanting Primate Adventures

When embarking on a safari in Rwanda, the highlight that immediately comes to mind is the enthralling primate adventures in the Virunga mountains. The iconic experience of trekking to find the elusive mountain gorillas and spending precious moments with these majestic creatures is unparalleled. Over the past two decades, Rwanda has successfully established itself as a luxury primate adventure destination, attracting discerning travelers from around the world.

During your visit to Rwanda, you will likely journey to the gorilla mountains, driving approximately two hours on a well-paved road to the northwestern corner of the country, near the borders with Uganda (north) and the DRC (west). This region encompasses Volcanoes National Park, which is Rwanda’s premier destination and the heart of its tourism sector.

Prepare to stay at the base of the volcanoes and set out in small groups of six early in the morning to trek up the steep jungle slopes in search of one of the twelve habituated gorilla groups. Accompanied by two rangers and a local tracker, you will spend about an hour in close proximity to the gorillas, observing their foraging habits, social interactions, and primitive charm.

Expect to navigate steep and uneven terrain, ascending the slopes of the mountains for an undetermined duration. The trek to reach the gorilla habitats can range from 30 minutes to five hours, but the incredible sighting is always worth the effort. A dedicated team of rangers closely monitors the gorillas, tracking their movements throughout the day and communicating with your tracking expert to guide you to their exact location.

Keep in mind that the gorillas are wild animals and constantly on the move, so there are no marked footpaths to reach them. You will need to cut your way through the jungle, making the trek physically demanding with steep ascents and descents.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) issues only 96 gorilla permits per day for trekking. Given the high demand for gorilla trekking experiences, it is crucial to book your permit well in advance to secure your spot. Feel free to contact our office at [email protected], and we will gladly assist you in the booking process.

For adventurers seeking more than gorilla trekking, Rwanda offers additional remarkable primate encounters. Within Volcanoes National Park, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure tracking the endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests. This experience is a delightful addition to your primate safari.

Other adventures in Volcanoes National Park include a morning hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb at the abandoned Karisoke Research Camp, a day ascent to the beautiful crater lake atop Mount Bisoke’s summit (3,711 meters), and an overnight climb to the summit of Mount Karisimbi (4,507 meters).

Heading south in Rwanda, you will discover Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, where a small population of chimpanzees and numerous other primate species thrive. Tracking a troop of habituated chimpanzees is a thrilling experience, while walking across the highest canopy walk in Africa immerses you in the forest’s enchanting ambiance.

While primate tracking takes the spotlight in Nyungwe Forest, botanical enthusiasts will be enthralled by the park’s 1,068 plant species, including 140 orchid varieties. Birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest is a delight, as the park is home to 322 bird species, including the rare Red-collared Babbler and 29 other Albertine Rift Endemic species. The forest is also a haven for butterflies, with over 120 species fluttering through its emerald foliage.

Captivating Wildlife Viewing Safaris

If you yearn to complement your primate adventures in Rwanda’s highlands with low-key big game viewing experiences within the country’s borders, Akagera National Park is your destination. Located approximately two hours west of Kigali, Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only safari park where you can witness the “Big Five” animals.

The park’s setting is breathtaking, characterized by a chain of low grassy mountains that gradually fade into undulating savannah plains, bordered by an extensive wetland comprising numerous lakes, papyrus swamps, and a labyrinth of channels formed by the Akagera River.

During a game drive in Akagera National Park, expect easy sightings of buffalo and elephants. Although spotting lions requires persistence and the assistance of an expert tracker, they can be found within the park. Recently reintroduced rhinos are quite shy, and leopard sightings are more likely during a night game drive.

Akagera National Park also offers abundant opportunities to observe plains animals, including Burchell’s zebra, Masai giraffe, and 11 antelope species such as impalas, topis, defassa waterbucks, sitatungas, and bushbucks in woodland areas.

A Multicolored Art & Culture Scene

Immersing yourself in Rwanda’s vibrant cultural tapestry is a must during your safari. The journey begins in the cosmopolitan capital city of Kigali, where Western and Rwandan influences blend harmoniously. Local designers negotiate and create a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, showcasing their craftsmanship and creativity in Kigali’s cultural fusion.

Explore the Kigali Cultural Village, a traditional market space, where local artisans and food vendors exhibit the wonders of their heritage. Rwanda’s museums and galleries offer captivating insights into African history and humanity, featuring historical artifacts and contemporary art. Traditional Intore dancing, basketry, and Umuganda traditions weave a cultural wave across the nation, providing visitors with authentic and captivating experiences.

For those interested in learning about Rwanda’s darkest chapter, a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi is highly recommended. This memorial site honors the memory of the 300,000 victims of the genocide and serves as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Rwandan people.

One of the major annual events in Rwanda that should not be missed is the Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony. Held every September 25th at Volcanoes National Park, this ceremony is a momentous occasion where new baby gorillas are named as part of conservation efforts. Naturalists from around the world gather to witness and celebrate this significant event.

Abundant Safari Accommodation Choices

Choosing the perfect accommodation for your safari in Rwanda is essential, and you will find no shortage of options. Rwanda offers a plethora of choices, ranging from cozy home-stays and comfortable Airbnb rentals to luxurious hotels, camps, and some of the most exquisite safari lodges on the continent.

Whether you decide to stay in Kigali or venture into the countryside, you can rest assured that there will be a suitable place to lay your head and indulge in relaxation. From beachfront accommodations along Lake Kivu to breathtaking treetop cottages, Rwanda provides a varied selection of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget.

For the ultimate safari experience in Rwanda, it is recommended to consult a local safari consultant who can assist you in planning your itinerary. Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected], and our dedicated team will be delighted to help you curate an unforgettable adventure in Rwanda.