Planning Your Rwanda Safari Online
Planning a safari in Rwanda is a dream come true, but it’s also a time when you must stay alert to avoid online scams. To protect yourself, always book through credible and reputable tour operators. Avoid shortcuts or suspicious offers, especially those advertising unusually low prices for activities whose official costs are publicly available. For instance, a Rwanda gorilla trekking permit currently costs $1,500 for international non-residents. Treat any significantly lower offer with extreme caution.
Most genuine safari companies in Rwanda are officially registered with national bodies such as the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which authorizes them to operate legally. Take time to research any operator before committing. Explore their official website, check for recent activity on verified social media channels, and read independent reviews from past clients on credible travel forums.
Ask destination-specific questions about the Rwanda safari experiences you want. A knowledgeable operator will provide detailed answers, reflecting their expertise and understanding of the country. Always use the company’s official contact form or verified email address to ensure your inquiries reach the right destination.
When making payments, consider using a credit card for extra protection, but never share your card details with anyone you do not fully trust.
Finally, familiarize yourself with Rwanda’s safari destinations before traveling. This knowledge not only reduces the chances of being misled but also allows you to participate more actively in your safari experience. Reliable information is available from reputable travel publications and trusted online sources.
Activities to Do in Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s premier safari experience. The country’s mountain gorillas are among the last of their kind, with only around 1,000 remaining worldwide. Their only habitat in Rwanda is Volcanoes National Park, a lush rainforest shaped by ancient volcanic activity.
The trek is often challenging due to steep, rugged terrain and damp forest floors, but the reward is incomparable an unforgettable hour spent in the presence of a gorilla family, observing their daily lives in the wild.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park offers thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventures. Treks begin with a briefing at Uwinka headquarters before heading deep into the forest. Along the way, you may also spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, alongside hundreds of bird species unique to the Albertine Rift.
A trekking permit is required, available for both morning and afternoon sessions.
Game Safaris in Akagera National Park
For classic game drives, Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s prime destination. Here you can encounter the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes—alongside zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and more.
A boat safari on Lake Ihema adds a serene touch, with views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds gathering along the shoreline.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Nyungwe Forest hosts East Africa’s only canopy walk, a 160-meter suspension bridge hanging 70 meters above the ground. It offers breathtaking aerial views of the forest and rare opportunities for birdwatching.
Visit Genocide Memorials
Rwanda’s genocide memorials, such as Blue Beret and Church de la Famille, are sobering reminders of the country’s tragic past. These sites honor the lives lost in 1994 and emphasize the importance of peace and reconciliation. Entrance fees also support survivors and community rehabilitation projects.
Kigali City Tour
A tour of Kigali introduces you to Rwanda’s vibrant cultural, social, and economic life. Highlights include museums, craft centers, and markets where you can engage with local traditions, from pottery to weaving.
Birdwatching in Rwanda
With over 700 bird species, Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and wetlands across the country offer opportunities to spot species like the Rwenzori Turaco, Kivu Ground Thrush, and Malachite Sunbird.
Cultural Encounters
Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s heritage through museum visits and traditional performances. The Intore dance, with its powerful drumming and graceful movements, is a cultural highlight not to be missed.
Best Time to Plan a Rwanda Safari
The dry seasons (June to October and December to January) are the most favorable for safaris. Roads are easier to navigate, and wildlife viewing is clearer. These months are also peak tourist seasons, so book early.
The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) are quieter, offering more intimate wildlife encounters and lush landscapes ideal for photography. Birdwatchers find this period especially rewarding due to breeding activities.
Ultimately, Rwanda welcomes visitors year-round, with each season offering unique advantages.
Cost of Rwanda Safaris
The cost of a Rwanda safari depends on factors like trip length, season, activities, group size, and accommodation choice. Gorilla trekking permits ($1,500), chimpanzee permits, and golden monkey permits are fixed costs for all visitors, while park conservation fees are also mandatory.
Luxury, mid-range, and budget safari options exist, allowing travelers to tailor experiences to their preferences and budget. Accommodation and transport remain the biggest variables in determining overall cost.
What to Expect on a Rwanda Safari
A safari in Rwanda immerses you in pristine wilderness and close encounters with incredible wildlife. Gorilla trekking remains the highlight, but chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking also attract global visitors. Participation is restricted to protect the animals, ensuring sustainable tourism.
Travelers can expect both lively shared experiences and tranquil moments in nature. Rwanda’s landscapes rolling hills, volcanic peaks, and lush forests set the stage for a mild, pleasant climate. The people are warm and welcoming, often adding cultural richness to your journey.
Be mindful of Rwanda’s strict laws and regulations. Violations, including carrying illegal substances, carry severe penalties. Respecting local customs and rules will ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.
While English is widely spoken, some rural areas may rely more on French or local languages. Hiring an interpreter can ease communication if needed. Roads in urban areas are well-paved, but rural routes may be rough and winding, especially in highland regions.
