Rwanda Safari Tours & Holidays

Rwanda is a small landlocked country in East Africa, but it has a lot to offer to travelers who are looking for an unforgettable safari experience. Rwanda is home to some of the most incredible landscapes, activities, diverse fauna, and flora in the world. Whether you want to see the endangered mountain gorillas, explore the lush rainforests, witness the big five animals, or enjoy the culture and history of this resilient nation, Rwanda saafari holidays offer something for everyone.

Things to do on a Rwanda Safari Holiday

Rwanda safari tours introduce you to a country of natural beauty and adventure. There are so many things to do on a safari in Rwanda that you will never get bored. Here are some of the highlights:

Gorilla Trekking

This is the most popular and iconic activity for Rwanda safari holidays. You can visit the Volcanoes National Park and join a guided trek to see the habituated mountain gorilla families in their natural habitat. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get close to these gentle giants and observe their behavior and interactions. Gorilla trekking permits are limited and expensive, so make sure you book well in advance.

Chimpanzee Tracking

If you want to see more primates, you can head to Nyungwe Forest National Park and track the chimpanzees that live there. You can also see other monkeys like colobus, golden, blue, and red-tailed monkeys. Nyungwe Forest is one of the largest and oldest montane forests in Africa and a biodiversity hotspot.

Wildlife Viewing

Rwanda safari tours are not only about primates but also about other wildlife. You can visit Akagera National Park and enjoy a game drive or a boat safari on Lake Ihema. You can see animals like lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and many more. Akagera National Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 500 species of birds.

Cultural Tours

Rwanda has a rich and diverse culture that you can learn more about by visiting some of the local communities and villages. You can interact with the people, learn about their traditions and customs, taste their food, and participate in their activities. You can also visit some of the historical and cultural sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the King’s Palace Museum, or the Ethnographic Museum.
Hiking and Biking: If you are looking for adventurous Rwanda safari holidays, you can explore some of the stunning landscapes of Rwanda by hiking or biking. You can hike up one of the volcanoes in Volcanoes National Park or along one of the trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park. You can also bike around Lake Kivu or through the countryside and enjoy the scenic views.

Why Choose Our Rwanda Safari Holidays?

We guarantee a tailor-made, authentic, and eco-conscious Rwanda safari holiday that encompasses breathtaking wildlife encounters, enriching cultural immersion, and the expertise of our knowledgeable guides. Let us be your trusted partner in creating memories that will last a lifetime in the captivating land of Rwanda.

At our Masai Mara Holidays, we believe in personalizing every aspect of Rwanda safari tour, ensuring a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your interests, preferences, and expectations. By customizing your itinerary, we guarantee that you will enjoy an immersive Rwanda safari that matches your desires, whether it be exploring the mesmerizing volcanoes, embarking on thrilling gorilla trekking adventures, or indulging in cultural encounters with the local communities.

One of the key factors that sets us apart is our team of experienced guides and naturalists who possess an in-depth knowledge of Rwanda’s unique wildlife, landscapes, and culture. With their expertise, you can delve deeper into the intricacies of the ecosystems and gain a profound understanding of the diverse flora and fauna that call Rwanda home. Our guides also ensure your safety and comfort throughout your safari in Rwanda, allowing you to focus on capturing mesmerizing moments and creating lifelong memories.

We are also committed to promoting sustainable travel practices and minimizing our environmental impact. We actively collaborate with local communities and conservation organizations to support responsible tourism initiatives. By choosing our Rwanda safari tours, you contribute to the conservation efforts aimed at protecting Rwanda’s natural heritage for future generations. From eco-friendly accommodations to responsible wildlife encounters, we ensure that your safari experience remains ethically conscious.

Top Safari Attractions in Rwanda

Rwanda has four national parks that offer different safari experiences. Here are some of the top safari attractions in each park:

Volcanoes National Park:

This park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda and covers an area of 160 square kilometers. It is part of the Virunga Mountains that spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo. It is famous for being home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. It also hosts other animals like golden monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks, hyenas, and more than 200 species of birds. The park has five volcanoes that you can hike up: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Nyungwe Forest National Park:

This park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda and covers an area of 970 square kilometers. It is one of the largest and oldest montane forests in Africa and a biodiversity hotspot. It is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, golden monkeys, and more. It also hosts other animals like duikers, civets, mongooses, and more than 300 species of birds. The park has several hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, swamps, and viewpoints. It also has a canopy walkway that offers a thrilling perspective of the forest.

Akagera National Park:

This park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda and covers an area of 1,122 square kilometers. It is the only savanna park in Rwanda and a contrast to the mountainous and forested parks. It is home to the big five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. It also hosts other animals like giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and more than 500 species of birds. The park has several lakes and wetlands that offer boat safaris and fishing opportunities.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park:

This park is located in the western part of Rwanda and covers an area of 34 square kilometers. It is the newest and smallest national park in Rwanda and was established in 2015. It consists of two separate forests: Gishwati and Mukura. It is home to four species of primates: chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. It also hosts other animals like duikers, servals, bush pigs, and more than 130 species of birds. The park has several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the forests and the surrounding hills.

Frequently Asked Questions about Safari in Rwanda

Here are some of the most common questions that people ask about Rwanda safaris:

When is the best time to visit Rwanda?

Rwanda has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons (March-May and October-December) and two dry seasons (June-September and December-February). The best time to visit Rwanda depends on what you want to do and see. Generally, the dry seasons are better for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking as the trails are less muddy and the animals are easier to spot. However, the rainy seasons are also good for birdwatching and photography as the landscapes are greener and more vibrant.

How safe is Rwanda?

Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa and has a stable political and security situation. The people are friendly and hospitable and crime rates are low. However, as with any destination, you should always exercise caution and follow the advice of your tour operator and guides. You should also respect the local culture and customs and avoid any political or sensitive topics.

What are the visa requirements for Rwanda?

Rwanda has a visa-on-arrival policy for most nationalities. You can get a single-entry visa for 30 days at any entry point for $50 USD. You can also apply for an online visa before your arrival at this portal. If you plan to visit other countries in East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania), you can get an East African Tourist Visa for $100 USD that allows you multiple entries for 90 days.

What are the health requirements for Rwanda?

Rwanda is a malaria-endemic country and you should take prophylaxis before, during, and after your trip. You should also consult your doctor about other vaccinations that you may need such as yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, tetanus, etc. You should also carry a personal medical kit with basic supplies such as painkillers, antihistamines, antiseptics, bandages, etc. You should also drink bottled water and avoid eating raw or uncooked food.

What are the currency and exchange rates for Rwanda?

The currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF). The exchange rate as of July 2023 is 1 USD = 1,000 RWF. You can exchange your money at banks or forex bureaus in major towns or at the airport. You can also use your credit or debit cards at some hotels or shops but be aware of transaction fees. ATMs are widely available but may have withdrawal limits or charges.

Popular Rwanda Safaris Tours & Holidays

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than our exceptional Rwanda safari tours! Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Rwanda’s diverse landscapes, from the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park to the serene shores of Lake Kivu. Our expert guides will take you on an unforgettable encounter with the magnificent mountain gorillas, ensuring an up-close and personal experience that will leave you in awe. Discover the rich wildlife and vibrant culture that Rwanda has to offer while enjoying luxurious accommodations that will exceed your expectations. Embark on a journey that will not only create lasting memories but also contribute to conservation efforts. Check out our carefully crafted Rwanda Safari Holidays and request a free quote