Safari in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking, volcanic landscapes and Africa's most exclusive nature experiences
Why Rwanda?
Rwanda is one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa.
The country places great emphasis on sustainable tourism and deliberately limits visitor numbers in its national parks. This creates intense nature experiences with comparatively few people.
Rwanda is particularly famous for Volcanoes National Park, home to several mountain gorilla families. It was here that the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey began her groundbreaking work to protect the mountain gorillas.
But Rwanda offers far more than gorilla trekking.
Akagera National Park is increasingly becoming one of the most exciting safari destinations in East Africa. Following the successful reintroduction of lions and rhinos, all of the Big Five can now be observed here again.
In addition, there are the pristine rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park, spectacular volcanic landscapes and the picturesque Lake Kivu, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in Africa.
Rwanda at a glance
Capital city
Largest city
Size
Resident
Language
currency
Time zone
entry
Safari possible
Best time to travel
Highlights
Kigali
Kigali
approx. 26,338 km²
approximately 14.6 million
Kinyarwanda, English & French
Rwanda Franc (RWF)
UTC +2
Visa requirements vary depending on nationality; application possible online.
Year-round
June to September & December to February
Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, Akagera NP, Nyungwe Forest, Volcanoes National Park
Where is Rwanda?
Rwanda lies in the heart of East Africa and borders Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Although it is one of the smaller countries in Africa in terms of area, it impresses with an astonishing diversity of landscapes.
Gentle hills, volcanic mountains, dense mountain rainforests and numerous lakes characterize the landscape. It is not without reason that Rwanda bears the nickname "Land of a Thousand Hills".
Thanks to the short distances, you can reach many highlights within a few hours. This makes round trips particularly pleasant and allows you to combine different regions.
Where volcanoes point the way to the rainforest
Rwanda is a country that defines itself not by its size, but by its landscape. In the northwest, the Virunga volcanoes rise from the green highlands, their slopes covered in dense rainforest, home to the last mountain gorillas. Further south lies the Nyungwe Forest with its ancient woodlands, while in the east a completely different landscape awaits: open savannas, lakes, and wetlands.
It is precisely this contrast that makes Rwanda so extraordinary.
In Volcanoes National Park, gorilla tracking takes you into a landscape that seems almost surreal. Bamboo forests, dense mountain rainforest, and steep volcanic slopes characterize the trail until you finally encounter a gorilla family. The animals move freely through the forest, searching for food, resting among the trees, or tending to their young. It's not a typical safari from a vehicle, but an encounter that truly takes you into their habitat.
But Rwanda's forests have even more to offer. Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the country's most important primate habitats and is home to chimpanzees and numerous other monkey species. A hike through the forest reveals a completely different side of Rwanda: towering canopies, dense greenery, mist, and the constant calls and rustling of the animals.
In the east of the country, the landscape changes dramatically. Akagera National Park is characterized by savannas, acacia trees, lakes, and extensive wetlands. Here, the classic game drive takes center stage. Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species are regularly sighted, while lions, leopards, and rhinos also inhabit the park.
And nestled among these diverse landscapes lies another highlight: Lake Kivu. This large freshwater lake, surrounded by green hills and small villages, offers a tranquil contrast to the intense experiences in the forest and on safari. Here you can relax and bring your Rwandan journey to a close before returning to Kigali or continuing on to another destination in East Africa.
Rwanda thus combines volcanic landscapes, mountain rainforest, primates, and classic safaris within an unusually compact area. At the same time, the country is small enough that different regions can be combined within a single trip without spending days traveling by vehicle.
Anyone who already knows Africa and is looking for a trip that shows wildlife not only from the perspective of a game drive will find a very unique way to experience the continent in Rwanda.
What distinguishes Rwanda from other safari destinations
At first glance, Rwanda seems almost tiny compared to classic safari destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, or Botswana. The country is compact, the distances between the main regions are relatively short, and yet you'll find an astonishing diversity of landscapes and wildlife here.
This very compactness is one of Rwanda's great strengths.
Within a single trip, you can observe mountain gorillas in the dense rainforest of Volcanoes National Park, follow chimpanzees through the forests of Nyungwe National Park, and go on a classic game drive in Akagera National Park. There, you'll find open savannas, lakes, and wetlands, as well as elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Afterward, you can round off your trip with a few relaxing days at Lake Kivu, nestled among green hills and a tropical lake.
A trip through Rwanda rarely feels like a classic safari tour. The landscape is constantly changing: the volcanic mountains in the north give way to dense mountain rainforests, rolling hills, and open savannas in the east. In between lie small villages, tea plantations, and at every turn, spectacular views across the hilly landscape.
The gorilla and chimpanzee treks are particularly exceptional. Instead of observing animals solely from a safari vehicle, you'll be on foot, moving through their natural habitat. This makes these encounters more intense and clearly distinguishes Rwanda from many classic safari destinations.
At the same time, Rwanda has developed into a well-organized destination for high-quality safaris in recent years. Particularly around Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park, you will find select lodges and camps that can be perfectly integrated into individually planned trips.
Rwanda demonstrates that the size of a country says little about how diverse a trip can be. Gorillas, chimpanzees, the Big Five, rainforest, savannah, and Lake Kivu are all surprisingly close together here.
Especially for travelers who have already experienced other safaris or are consciously seeking an extraordinary combination of primate and classic wildlife observation, Rwanda offers a unique perspective on Africa.
Who is Rwanda suitable for?
Rwanda is particularly interesting for travelers who want to combine extraordinary wildlife encounters with a high level of comfort.
The country is ideally suited for:
Gorilla Trekking
Luxury travel
Honeymoon
Nature photographers
Primate lovers
Safari beginners
Repeat travelers
birdwatchers
Individual travelers
Rwanda is also an excellent choice for travelers with limited time. Thanks to short travel times, several highlights can be combined within a single week.
Why a safari in Rwanda is worthwhile
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Heimat der Serengeti und des Ngorongoro-Kraters
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Schauplatz der Great Migration
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Riesige Nationalparks mit beeindruckender Wildnis
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Hervorragende Chancen auf die Big Five
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Große Vielfalt an Landschaften und Ökosystemen
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Safari und Zanzibar perfekt kombinierbar
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Exklusive Safari-Camps und luxuriöse Fly-In Safaris
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Ganzjährige Safari-Möglichkeiten mit unterschiedlichen saisonalen Höhepunkten
Gorilla trekking in the mountain rainforest
Experience primates up close
Big Five in Akagera National Park
Spectacular volcanic landscapes
Short distances between the regions
High-quality lodges & camps
Strong focus on nature conservation
Safari & Lake Kivu combined
The most beautiful national parks in Rwanda
Although Rwanda has only a few national parks, each one protects a completely different ecosystem and offers unique experiences.
From the dense mountain rainforest of the Virunga volcanoes to the savannas in the east and the ancient cloud forests in the southwest, the country's impressive landscape diversity is on display.
It is precisely this combination that makes Rwanda such an extraordinary travel destination. Within just a few days, you can observe mountain gorillas, go on a classic game drive, and hike through one of Africa's oldest rainforests.
Volcanoes National Park
The home of the mountain gorillas
Volcanoes National Park is the most famous protected area in Rwanda and one of the most important places in the world for observing mountain gorillas.
The national park lies in the Virunga Mountains on the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The impressive landscape is dominated by five extinct volcanoes, whose slopes are covered with dense bamboo forest and mountain rainforest.
Several habituated gorilla families live here and can be visited as part of a guided trek.
Besides the gorillas, the park is also home to golden monkeys, bushbucks, numerous bird species and an extraordinary flora.
Highlights
Gorilla Trekking
Virunga volcanoes
Mountain rainforest
Golden monkeys
Hiking on volcanoes
Akagera National Park
The Big Five in Rwanda
Akagera National Park lies in eastern Rwanda. Unlike the forested regions in the west, the landscape here is characterized by open savannas, lakes, wetlands, and acacia forests.
Following extensive conservation efforts in recent years, Akagera has become a true conservation success story. Lions and black rhinos have been successfully reintroduced, so that today all of the Big Five are once again present in the national park.
Besides classic game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema are particularly popular. They offer excellent opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds.
Highlights
Big Five
Boat safari on Lake Ihema
Lions
Rhinoceroses
Elephants
Giraffes
Nyungwe Forest National Park
One of the oldest rainforests in Africa
Der Nyungwe Forest National Park schützt einen der ältesten Bergregenwälder des afrikanischen Kontinents. Dichter Nebelwald, Wasserfälle und unzählige Pflanzenarten schaffen eine beeindruckende Kulisse. Besonders bekannt ist der Park für seine Schimpansen sowie zahlreiche weitere Primatenarten. Darüber hinaus gilt Nyungwe als eines der besten Reiseziele Afrikas für Vogelbeobachtung.
Ein weiteres Highlight ist der spektakuläre Canopy Walk – eine Hängebrücke, die Besucher hoch über den Baumwipfeln durch den Regenwald führt.
Highlights
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Schimpansen-Trekking
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Canopy Walk
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Nebelwald
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Über 300 Vogelarten
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Primaten
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Rwanda's newest national park
The Gishwati-Mukura National Park is Rwanda's newest protected area and is still largely unknown.
The park was created from two reforested woodland areas and plays an important role in protecting the country's biodiversity.
Visitors can expect a peaceful atmosphere with chimpanzees, monkey species, numerous bird species and impressive hiking trails.
Those who want to discover Rwanda away from the well-known highlights will find a particularly authentic nature experience here.
Highlights
Little-visited national park
Chimpanzees
Golden monkeys or golden monkeys
Birdwatching
Hiking
Primaten Trekking in Ruanda
Gorilla Trekking in Ruanda
For many travelers, gorilla trekking is the highlight of a trip to Rwanda. Few experiences compare to an encounter with wild mountain gorillas.
The trek begins early in the morning with a briefing by experienced rangers. Afterwards, small groups are assigned to a gorilla family and set off together into the rainforest. Depending on the animals' location, the hike takes between one and several hours. Once the gorillas are found, an hour begins that many visitors never forget. You observe the animals eating, playing, or resting and quickly realize how similar their social behavior is to our own.
This encounter always takes place under strict protective measures to minimize disturbance to the animals.
Why gorilla trekking in Rwanda is so special
Rwanda is considered one of the most comfortable destinations for gorilla trekking. Volcanoes National Park is relatively quick to reach from Kigali, making it possible to even include the trek in a shorter trip.
Furthermore, Rwanda places great emphasis on sustainability and visitor management. The number of daily trekking permits is limited, ensuring that encounters remain particularly exclusive while simultaneously contributing to the protection of the mountain gorillas.
What you should know about gorilla trekking
Small groups with a maximum of eight people
Accompanied by experienced rangers
Good basic fitness is recommended.
Sturdy hiking boots and long clothing are recommended.
A maximum of one hour with the gorillas
Trekking permits should be reserved several months in advance.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers one of Rwanda's most exciting primate experiences. The dense mountain rainforest in the southwest of the country is one of the most important habitats for chimpanzees and also boasts an impressive diversity of other primates, birds, and forest animals.
On a chimpanzee trek, you'll hike through the forest, following the animals' tracks through dense greenery, along narrow forest paths, and past tall, ancient trees. The chimpanzees often move through the treetops but also roam the forest floor. If you spot them, you can observe them communicating with each other, searching for food, playing, or moving through the canopy.
It's not just about the animals themselves. The journey through Nyungwe Forest is an experience in itself: the humid climate, the subdued light, and the sounds of the forest create a completely different atmosphere than a classic safari in the open savanna.
Trekking is particularly interesting for wildlife and nature photographers, as it constantly offers different perspectives and subjects. At the same time, you should bring some patience: in the dense rainforest, the animals aren't always immediately visible, and their position can change quickly. It is precisely this unpredictability that makes the search a special part of the experience.
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest can be perfectly combined with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and a safari in Akagera National Park. This way, you can experience very different aspects of Rwanda's wildlife on a single trip.
Which safari region suits you best?
Golden monkeys
Besides the mountain gorillas, the golden monkeys are also among the special features of Volcanoes National Park.
These rare primates are found exclusively in the Virunga Mountains and impress with their striking golden-colored fur.
A guided golden monkey trek can be perfectly combined with a longer stay in Volcanoes National Park and offers an exciting complement to gorilla trekking.
Rwanda's wildlife - rare primates, the Big Five and an impressive diversity of species
Rwanda is best known for its mountain gorillas. But the country is home to far more than these famous great apes.
From the open savannas of Akagera National Park to the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park, elephants, lions, leopards, chimpanzees, golden monkeys and hundreds of bird species live here.
It is precisely this diversity that makes Rwanda an exciting combination of primate experience and classic safari.
Today you can see all of the Big Five in Rwanda.
Following the successful reintroduction of lions and black rhinos, Akagera National Park has become one of the most exciting protected areas in East Africa.
The Big Five include:
Lion
leopard
elephant
African Buffalo
rhino
Even though the focus of many trips is on gorilla trekking, a safari in Akagera National Park is a worthwhile and ideal complement.
Bergorillas
Die Berggorillas sind das Wahrzeichen Ruandas. Weltweit existieren nur noch etwas mehr als 1.000 Tiere. Ein bedeutender Teil lebt in den Virunga-Bergen, die sich über Ruanda, Uganda und die Demokratische Republik Kongo erstrecken.
Die Begegnung mit einer Gorilla-Familie gehört zu den eindrucksvollsten Naturerlebnissen überhaupt.
Mit etwas Glück sitzt ein Silberrücken nur wenige Meter entfernt, während Jungtiere spielerisch durch den Wald toben.
Schimpansen
Der Nyungwe Forest National Park zählt zu den besten Orten Afrikas, um Schimpansen in freier Wildbahn zu beobachten.
Die intelligenten Primaten bewegen sich oft schnell durch die Baumkronen und kommunizieren lautstark miteinander. Dadurch unterscheidet sich das Erlebnis deutlich vom ruhigeren Gorilla Trekking.
Golden monkeys
The golden monkey is one of the rarest primates in Africa.
It lives exclusively in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains and is noticeable for its golden-orange fur and lively nature.
Anyone spending several days in Volcanoes National Park should consider a golden monkey tour in addition to gorilla trekking.
Löwe
Nachdem Löwen viele Jahre aus Akagera verschwunden waren, wurden sie erfolgreich wiederangesiedelt.
Heute gehören sie wieder zu den Höhepunkten jeder Safari im Nationalpark.
Leopard
Leoparden kommen ebenfalls im Akagera National Park vor.
Da sie überwiegend nachtaktiv und sehr scheu sind, gelten Sichtungen als besonderes Highlight jeder Safari.
Elefant
Large herds of elephants live especially in Akagera National Park.
Especially during the dry season, the animals can regularly be observed at watering holes or on boat safaris.
Afrikanischer Büffel
African buffalo are among Rwanda's most iconic large animals and are particularly easy to observe in Akagera National Park. There, they often roam the open savannas and grasslands in large herds or congregate near the numerous lakes and wetlands. On game drives, you can experience these impressive animals up close and observe their often surprisingly complex social behavior.
rhino
With the return of the black and white rhinos, Akagera is once again home to all of the Big Five.
The reintroduction is considered one of the most successful nature conservation projects in Africa.
Hippos and crocodiles
The lakes and wetlands of Akagera National Park are home to large populations of hippos and Nile crocodiles.
These animals can often be observed particularly well during a boat safari.
Ruanda für Vogelbeobachter
With more than 700 bird species, Rwanda is one of the most interesting birding destinations in East Africa. The rainforests of Nyungwe Forest and the wetlands of Akagera National Park, in particular, offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Some of the best-known species include:
Grey-necked Crowned Crane
Turacos
Sunbirds
Kingfishers
Birds of prey
Numerous endemic species of the Albertine Rift region
Rwanda also offers excellent conditions for photographers.
Combining safari and beach
From the Virunga volcanoes to white sandy beaches
A trip through Rwanda can be perfectly combined with a few days on the Indian Ocean. After gorilla trekking in the mountain rainforest, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, and game drives in Akagera National Park, a stay by the sea offers a completely different way to end the trip.
Zanzibar is particularly well-suited for this combination. There are direct flights from Kigali to Zanzibar, allowing you to reach the Indian Ocean without long detours. The flight time is only around two and a half hours, making the island an easy addition to a Rwanda trip.
On Zanzibar, you can consciously slow down after the intense experiences of your safari. White sandy beaches, warm water, and tropical landscapes invite you to relax, while there are also plenty of opportunities to fill your days with activities. Snorkeling and diving, a sunset boat trip, or an excursion to the spice plantations can all be easily incorporated, as can a visit to Stone Town.
The diverse landscapes make this combination particularly appealing: You begin your journey amidst the volcanoes and rainforests of Rwanda, experience gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat, and then embark on a classic safari in Akagera National Park. Afterwards, the tropical coast of Zanzibar awaits with its palm trees, coral reefs, and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
This combination is also ideal for a honeymoon. The safari offers intense shared experiences and exceptional wildlife viewing, while Zanzibar provides space for peace and relaxation. Depending on your travel style, we can select a private villa, a small boutique hotel, or a high-end beach resort.
We plan the safari and beach trip as one continuous journey. The route, domestic flights, and international connections are coordinated so that you spend as little time as possible on transfers and instead have more time for the actual experiences.
The best time to go on a safari in Rwanda
Rwanda can generally be visited all year round.
The high altitude creates a pleasant climate with relatively mild temperatures. However, certain months are considered particularly recommended for gorilla trekking and classic safaris.
An overview of the seasons
Period
Dezember bis Februar
März bis Mai
Juni bis September
October to November
character
Dry season
Long rainy season
Dry season
Short rainy season
Especially suitable for
Gorilla trekking, safari, tours
Green landscapes, photography
Best time to travel for gorilla trekking
Fewer visitors, birdwatching
December to February
These months are ideal for gorilla trekking and safaris.
The paths in the rainforest are often drier and more pleasant to walk on.
March to May
During the rainy season, Rwanda presents itself as particularly green.
Rain showers usually occur in the afternoon, creating impressive landscapes and ideal conditions for nature photography.
June to September
These months are considered the peak travel season.
They offer excellent conditions for gorilla trekking, hiking and safaris in Akagera National Park.
October to November
The short rainy season brings fewer visitors and particularly lush vegetation.
With flexible travel planning, excellent wildlife viewing is possible even during this time.
How many days should one plan for Rwanda?
Rwanda is suitable for both shorter trips and longer tours.
4 to 5 days
Ideal für:
Kurztrip
Gorilla Trekking
Kigali
Volcanoes National Park
7 to 9 days
Unsere Empfehlung für Erstbesucher.
Beispiel:
Kigali
Volcanoes National Park
Akagera National Park
Lake Kivu
10 to 12 days
Perfect for anyone who wants to experience Rwanda intensely.
Additionally, a visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park, several days at Lake Kivu, and a beach stay can be included.
Rwanda or Uganda
This is a question many travelers who dream of a gorilla trek ask themselves. Both countries offer extraordinary encounters with mountain gorillas, but differ in their focus.
Ruanda
Kürzere Fahrzeiten
Exklusive Lodges
Hochwertige Infrastruktur
Ideal für kürzere Reisen
Höhere Gorilla-Permit-Kosten
Uganda
Greater landscape diversity
Extensive round trips
More national parks
A combination of safari and primates
Often a bit cheaper
Our recommendation: If you're looking for a comfortable trip with short distances and exclusive accommodations, Rwanda is the ideal choice. If you want to combine as many different national parks and safari experiences as possible, Uganda offers more variety.
Accommodation in Rwanda
Exclusive lodges nestled between volcanoes, rainforest and savannah
In recent years, Rwanda has developed into one of Africa's most exclusive safari destinations. This is also reflected in the accommodations.
Many lodges place great emphasis on privacy, sustainable design, and a close connection to nature. Instead of large hotel complexes, you can expect stylish boutique lodges, luxurious safari camps, and elegant hideaways in exceptional locations.
Whether overlooking the Virunga volcanoes, in the middle of the rainforest or on the shores of Lake Kivu – each region offers its own unique character.
Gorilla Lodges
The area around Volcanoes National Park is home to some of East Africa's most exclusive lodges.
Many accommodations offer a direct view of the Virunga volcanoes and are the ideal starting point for gorilla trekking.
After a hike through the rainforest, a cozy fireplace, regional cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere await you – perfect for reflecting on the day's experiences.
Classic safari lodges
In Akagera National Park you can expect classic safari lodges with spacious viewing decks and views over the savannah.
Many accommodations are located near water sources or lakes, so wildlife can regularly be observed from the lodge itself.
The combination of game drives and relaxing hours on the terrace is what makes this region so special.
Forest Lodges
In Nyungwe Forest National Park, nature and tranquility are the main focus.
The lodges blend harmoniously into the mountain rainforest and often offer spectacular views over the canopy.
Those who want to experience chimpanzee trekking or the Canopy Walk will find the perfect accommodation here.
Lodges on Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu provides a wonderful contrast to the national parks.
Small boutique hotels and stylish resorts are located directly on the water and invite you to end your trip in a relaxed atmosphere.
Whether it's a kayaking tour, a boat trip or simply an evening watching the sunset – Lake Kivu offers peace and relaxation after the intense nature experiences of the past few days.
Sustainable accommodations
Sustainability plays a central role in Rwanda. Many lodges work closely with the surrounding communities, employ local staff, and invest in conservation and education projects.
Numerous accommodations rely on solar energy, regional products, and a conscious approach to water and resources.
By taking this trip, you are not only supporting the protection of the unique wildlife, but also the people who live in the regions around the national parks.
Arrival in Uganda
Most international travelers arrive in Rwanda via Kigali International Airport (KGL). The airport is located only about 10 kilometers from the city center and is the country's main international gateway.
There are various connections to Kigali from Europe, most involving a layover. Travel can be particularly well arranged via cities such as Brussels, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Doha, or Addis Ababa. RwandAir also connects Kigali with numerous destinations in Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.
Kigali is an excellent starting point for a tour of Rwanda. From the capital, you can easily reach Volcanoes National Park in the north, Nyungwe Forest National Park in the southwest, and Akagera National Park in the east. Depending on your route and mode of transport, you can connect the different regions within just a few hours.
For onward travel within the country, we generally recommend a private driver with a vehicle. This allows you to plan your route flexibly and gives you the opportunity to make stops along the way and explore the landscape. For certain routes and itineraries, domestic flights can also be a useful addition.
Those wishing to combine a trip to Rwanda with a beach extension in Zanzibar can also plan their journey via Kigali. The direct flight connection between Kigali and Zanzibar makes this combination particularly straightforward.
Security in Rwanda
Rwanda is considered one of the safest and cleanest countries in Africa. The roads are well-developed, the tourist infrastructure is modern, and national parks are professionally managed.
Safaris, as well as gorilla and chimpanzee treks, take place exclusively accompanied by experienced rangers who know both the animals and the terrain very well.
As with any long-distance trip, we still recommend some basic precautions:
Do not openly display valuables.
Follow the rangers' instructions at all times.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Never feed or harass wild animals.
Respect local culture and traditions.
With good planning, Rwanda can be visited in a very relaxed and safe way.
Sustainable travel in Rwanda
Rwanda is considered a global leader in sustainable tourism. The country pursues a consistent strategy that closely links nature conservation and tourism.
A large portion of the revenue from gorilla permits goes directly towards the protection of mountain gorillas, as well as projects for education, infrastructure and the development of the surrounding communities.
This model is internationally regarded as a benchmark and has significantly contributed to the positive development of the mountain gorilla population in recent years.
Even as a traveler, you can contribute:
Maintain the prescribed minimum distance from wild animals.
Avoid single-use plastics.
Support local businesses.
Respect nature and culture.
Follow the rangers' instructions.
Responsible tourism is one of the main reasons why Rwanda is now among the most successful nature conservation projects in Africa.
Our philosophy
At InfiniteWild, we believe that exceptional safari experiences always come with responsibility.
Therefore, we prefer to work with carefully selected partners who are committed to nature conservation, sustainable tourism and supporting local communities in the long term.
Our goal is to create journeys that not only provide unforgettable experiences but also make a positive contribution to protecting Africa's unique nature.
Our Rwanda tours
Rwanda is perfect for anyone who wants to combine extraordinary nature experiences with a high level of comfort.
The combination of gorilla trekking, classic safaris, rainforest and Lake Kivu makes the country one of the most diverse travel destinations in East Africa.
We recommend planning at least seven to nine days. This allows enough time to combine Volcanoes National Park with a safari in Akagera National Park or a stay at Lake Kivu.
Those who want to delve even deeper into East Africa can combine Rwanda with Uganda or Tanzania.
Ready for your safari in Rwanda?
Whether it's your first safari, a family trip, a honeymoon or an exclusive fly-in safari – we'll help you put together the perfect route to suit your needs.
Frequently asked questions about a safari in Rwanda
The dry seasons from June to September and from December to February are considered the best time to travel for gorilla trekking and safaris.
For first-time visitors, we recommend a stay of at least seven to nine days.
Those who also want to include Nyungwe Forest or several days at Lake Kivu should plan for ten to twelve days.
Yes. All of the Big Five now live in Akagera National Park again.
Depending on the location of the gorilla family, the hike can take between one and several hours. A normal level of fitness is sufficient in most cases.
Yes. Some trekking experiences in Rwanda have age restrictions. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking is possible from age 15, while golden monkey trekking is offered from age 12. A minimum age of 15 also applies to some hikes on the Virunga volcanoes.
If you are traveling with children or teenagers, we take the respective age limits into account during the planning and put together the route in such a way that varied safari and nature experiences are still possible.
Permit prices are adjusted regularly. As they can change, we will inform you of the current fees when you plan your trip.
Absolutely.
Many travelers combine Volcanoes National Park with Akagera National Park or Nyungwe Forest National Park, thus experiencing both primates and classic safari animals.
Yes. Rwanda is particularly interesting for travelers who want to combine their first safari with exceptional wildlife encounters and diverse landscapes. The distances between the main regions are relatively short, the tourist infrastructure is well-developed, and trips can be comfortably and individually organized.
At the same time, Rwanda offers more than just the classic game drive. Besides safaris in Akagera National Park, you can observe mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, experience chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, and end your trip relaxing at Lake Kivu.
Yes. Rwanda can be easily combined with a few days on the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is particularly suitable, as there are direct flights from Kigali and the flight time is only about two and a half hours. This allows you to combine gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and safaris with relaxing days on the beach.
This combination is also particularly beautiful for a honeymoon trip: After the intense experiences in Rwanda's rainforests and savannas, white sandy beaches, warm water and time to relax follow.
Yes.
Combinations with Uganda for an intensive primate trip or with Tanzania and Kenya for a varied safari through East Africa are particularly popular.
The official language of Rwanda is Kinyarwanda. English and French are also widely spoken and official languages. English is widely spoken in the tourism sector, making communication in lodges, on safaris, and during guided activities straightforward.
Yes. Rwanda offers a particularly diverse range of subjects for wildlife, primate, and landscape photographers. The mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and the chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest allow for intense animal portraits and unique behavioral shots, while Akagera National Park, with its elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and numerous antelope species, offers classic safari subjects.
The diverse habitats are also exciting from a photographic perspective: dense mountain rainforest, volcanic landscapes, open savannas and Lake Kivu create very different lighting moods and visual worlds.
A tailor-made trip allows you to perfectly match national parks, accommodations, and activities to your interests, travel dates, and budget. This creates a balanced itinerary with ample time for immersive nature experiences and special encounters.
Plan your individual safari in Rwanda with us
Rwanda reveals a side of Africa that surprises many travelers. The proximity to mountain gorillas, the impressive volcanic landscapes, and the high-quality accommodations make the country an exceptional destination for anyone who wants to experience nature intensely and consciously.
Whether it's gorilla trekking, a safari in Akagera National Park or a tour through the most beautiful regions of the country – we plan your trip individually and tailored to your wishes.
Ready for your safari in Rwanda?
Let's plan your personal Rwanda trip together. We'll advise you individually and develop a route that perfectly suits your wishes, travel dates, and budget.
Rwanda – The Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda surprises.
Those who travel to this small country in the heart of East Africa for the first time will discover gentle hilly landscapes, dense rainforests, sparkling lakes and some of the most impressive wildlife encounters on the continent.
Above all, Rwanda is one of the few countries in the world where you can experience mountain gorillas in the wild.
Encountering these fascinating primates is one of the most moving nature experiences imaginable. But Rwanda has much more to offer than gorilla trekking.
In Akagera National Park, classic safaris with the Big Five await you, while Nyungwe Forest National Park captivates visitors with its ancient mountain rainforests and chimpanzees. Relaxing lakeside promenades and small lodges along Lake Kivu invite you to unwind and bring your trip to a peaceful close.
Rwanda combines exceptional natural beauty with modern infrastructure, short travel times, and a high level of safety. This makes the country ideal for both an exclusive short break and a diverse tour through East Africa.
On this page you will find everything you need to know for your safari in Rwanda – from the most beautiful national parks and gorilla trekking to the best time to travel and our personal recommendations.
