Visit Rwanda with Verdant Safaris and be sure to have the most memorable experience in this land of a thousand hills. Rwanda presents a wide range of unique tourist attractions and surreal features notable among which are the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. These gentle giants are why gorilla trekking in Rwanda is always on the agenda for most tourists visiting Rwanda throughout the year. You can track chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park or enjoy the famous canopy walk in Nyungwe as you take panoramic views of this thick rainforest. You can go on a wildlife game drive in Akagera National Park where you will encounter vast animal and bird species and there are more Rwanda tourist activities you can do including taking a boat ride along Lake Kivu, not to mention immersing yourself in the rich Rwandan culture and history when you visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre among other places on a Kigali City Tour. Take a look at our well planned Rwanda safaris and contact us today to start planning your safari in Rwanda.
2 Days Gorilla Safari in Rwanda
Our 2 Days Rwanda Safari is all about tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda..
3 Days Akagera National Park Safari
This 3 days Rwanda safari tour guarantees the best wildlife viewing experience in the land of a thousand hills..
3 Days Gorilla Tracking Safari Rwanda
Enjoy tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park on this 3 day safari in Rwanda..
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Explore Rwanda from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park to track gorillas. Book this Rwanda gorilla tour..
4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safari
Spend 4 days in Rwanda tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park on this exciting primate safari..
5 Days Rwanda Primate Tracking Safari
Book this primate safari and take part in tracking primates in Rwanda. Visit Rwanda with Verdant Safaris..
6 Days Rwanda Primate Tracking Tour
This 6 Day Rwanda Primate Tracking tour takes you to explore wildlife in 3 Rwanda National Parks..
7 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari Tour
Rwanda is a great destination for wildlife encounters on this 7 Day Rwanda Wildlife Safari tour..
8 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Track mountain gorillas and explore Rwanda wildlife on this 8 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari..
9 Days Exploration Safari in Rwanda
Visit Rwanda on this 9 day wildlife adventure and have a great experience encountering the best of Rwanda wildlife..
10 Days Rwanda Wildlife Safari
Fully explore the wonders on Rwanda on our 10 day wildlife safari taking you to all the popular locations in Rwanda..
12 Days Visiting Rwanda Wildlife Safari
Visit Rwanda with Verdant Safaris for the most exciting wildlife experiences. Contact us to book this 12 day Rwanda safari..
Rwanda is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity, Rwanda safaris offer an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion. From trekking with mountain gorillas to exploring vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, Rwanda provides an unparalleled safari experience.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
One of the most sought-after experiences in Rwanda is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Located in the northwest of the country, this park is home to several habituated gorilla families, offering visitors the rare opportunity to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Trekking through the dense rainforest, led by experienced guides, allows adventurers to witness the gorillas’ social interactions up close. The encounter is both thrilling and humbling, as visitors gain a deeper appreciation for these critically endangered creatures.
Permits for gorilla trekking are limited to ensure minimal human impact on the gorillas, making it essential to book well in advance. The revenue generated from these permits plays a crucial role in conservation efforts and supports local communities. This makes gorilla trekking not just an extraordinary experience but also a meaningful contribution to wildlife preservation.
Game Drives in Akagera National Park
For those who crave a classic African safari, Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda is the perfect destination. Covering approximately 1,200 square kilometers, Akagera is a haven for diverse wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
Game drives in Akagera offer travelers the chance to see these magnificent animals roaming freely across the savannah, woodlands, and wetlands. The park is also home to numerous other species, such as giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of over 500 bird species, making Akagera a paradise for ornithologists.
Visitors can opt for guided game drives, night safaris, or even boat safaris on Lake Ihema, where they can witness hippos and crocodiles in their natural environment. The park’s successful conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching measures and reintroductions of endangered species, make Akagera a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife protection.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe National Park
Another gem in Rwanda’s safari offerings is Nyungwe National Park, a lush tropical rainforest in the southwestern part of the country. This park is renowned for its population of chimpanzees, offering visitors the chance to embark on an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure.
Guided treks lead visitors through dense forests, where they can observe these playful primates swinging from tree branches and communicating with each other through loud calls. The park is also home to other primate species, including colobus monkeys and golden monkeys.
Nyungwe National Park is not only famous for its primates but also for its stunning canopy walk. This 160-meter-long suspension bridge offers breathtaking views of the forest from above, providing a unique perspective on the region’s rich biodiversity.
Cultural Experiences and Ecotourism
Rwanda’s safari experience is not just about wildlife—it’s also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the country’s vibrant culture. Travelers can visit local villages, interact with the friendly Rwandan people, and learn about traditional practices such as basket weaving, drumming, and dance. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park offers visitors a chance to experience Rwanda’s heritage firsthand.
Additionally, Rwanda’s commitment to ecotourism ensures that safaris are conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner. Many lodges and camps in Rwanda are eco-friendly, blending luxury with conservation efforts to minimize their ecological footprint.
Rwanda safaris provide an unforgettable blend of adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion. Whether trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, spotting the Big Five in Akagera, or tracking chimpanzees in Nyungwe, visitors are guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With its stunning landscapes, thriving wildlife, and dedication to sustainable tourism, Rwanda continues to be a top destination for safari lovers worldwide.
Rwanda Travel Tips
Whether you’re visiting for gorilla trekking, cultural experiences, or exploring the vibrant city of Kigali, here are some essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
1. Best Time to Visit
Rwanda has a temperate climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit depends on your planned activities. The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, as trails are less muddy and animals are easier to spot. The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds but can make trekking more challenging.
2. Visa Requirements
Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online through Rwanda’s e-visa system. Citizens of the East African Community (EAC) and select countries may enter visa-free. For convenience, visitors traveling to multiple East African countries can apply for an East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows access to Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
3. Health and Vaccinations
Travelers should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider additional ones such as yellow fever, especially if coming from an endemic country. Malaria is present in Rwanda, so taking antimalarial medication and using insect repellent is recommended. It’s also advisable to carry a small medical kit with basic supplies.
4. Currency and Payments
The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the local currency, though US dollars are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas. Credit cards are becoming more common, especially in Kigali, but it’s best to carry some cash for rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns, and mobile payment platforms like MTN Mobile Money are widely used.
5. Transportation and Getting Around
Kigali has an efficient transportation system with taxis and motorbike taxis (motos) available. For intercity travel, buses are reliable and affordable. Car rentals are an option, but roads outside major cities can be challenging. If visiting national parks, hiring a local driver or joining a guided tour is recommended.
6. Safety and Etiquette
Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries, with low crime rates and clean, well-organized cities. However, it’s important to respect local customs, dress modestly, and avoid discussing sensitive topics like the 1994 genocide in a disrespectful manner. Always ask before taking photos of people.
By following these tips, travelers can fully enjoy Rwanda’s beauty, culture, and adventure with confidence and ease.
Best Time to Visit Rwanda
While it is a year-round travel destination, the best time to visit largely depends on your interests and planned activities.
Dry Seasons (June to September & December to February)
The best time for most travelers is during Rwanda’s dry seasons. From June to September and December to February, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, including gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and safaris in Akagera National Park. With less rainfall, trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife is more visible as animals gather around water sources. These months also offer the best conditions for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park.
Rainy Seasons (March to May & October to November)
The rainy seasons bring lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. While trekking can be more challenging due to muddy trails, this period is perfect for budget travelers, as accommodation rates are often lower. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also find these months rewarding, as migratory birds arrive.
Overall, the best time to visit Rwanda depends on your travel goals, whether you seek adventure, wildlife viewing, or serene nature experiences.