Rwanda Safari Holidays – Rwanda also known as the land of a thousand hills is ranked among the best wildlife destinations in Africa renowned for offering the best encounter with mountain gorillas in the forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Mountain gorillas are endangered species and they became famous following the research and studies by done by Dian Fossey – an American primatologist.
Mountain gorilla trekking is an unforgettable Rwanda safari experience however Rwanda is more than mountain gorillas, other amazing Rwanda safari activities worth trying during your African safari including volcano hiking, bird watching in Volcanoes national park and Nyungwe national park, boat trips on Lake Kivu in the Rift Valley area, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe national park and wildlife safaris in search of the Big Five in Akagera National Park – the only savannah national park in Rwanda.
Rwanda Safari Holiday Experience (what it is like)?
Rwanda is blessed with mind-blowing landscape dominated by thousands of hills and gifted with welcoming people which makes a Rwanda safari experience not only safe but also memorable.
On a safari to Rwanda, be ready to see various species of flora and fauna, volcanic mountains covered by rainforests, meet the endangered and rare mountain gorillas and all members of the African Big Five (lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, lions and elephants).
Rwanda’s location as a destination makes it easy to combine it with safaris to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Congo.
Other wildlife you will encounter on a Rwanda safari include primates such as chimpanzees, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys in Nyungwe national park, golden monkeys in Volcanoes national park and giraffes, elands, zebras, warthogs among others in Akagera National Park.
Rwanda’s capital City – KIGALI CITY is ranked as the cleanliest city on the African continent, the city is also one of the safest and fastest-growing countries in the world with smart technology used all over the streets.
Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda Gorilla Safari)
Gorilla trekking adventure is the most popular safari activity in Rwanda is only done in Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking safari is once in a lifetime experience offering visitors a face-to-face encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
On this activity, visitors hike through the forests of Volcanoes national parks in groups of 8 people in search for one of the habituated gorilla groups. The time taken on the Rwanda gorilla trekking experience is determined by the location of the group you are trekking however it normally takes about 30 minutes to 5 hours or more.
The trek comprises of hiking through the hilly and steep terrain at the altitude of at over 2,500m which can be exhausting, when you encounter the gorillas, it is very rewarding as you will watch them go on with their daily routes, feeding, interacting with one another and you are allowed to take pictures.
Gorilla trekking experience is governed by a set of rules set by Rwanda Development Board – the management body of Volcanoes national park, these rules were put in place to protect mountain gorillas as they are susceptible to human diseases such as cold and flu.
Mountain Gorilla Groups In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park
Mountain gorillas open for gorilla tourism in volcanoes national park underwent gorilla habituation experience which made them more friendly to human presence, there are currently 10 habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes national park and these include
- Susa Gorilla Group
- Karisimbi Gorilla Group
- Sabyinyo Gorilla Group
- Agashya Gorilla Group
- Amahoro Gorilla Group
- Kwitonda Gorilla Group
- Hirwa Gorilla Group
Gorilla Trekking Permits In Rwanda
Securing a gorilla permit in Volcanoes National Park is not easy especially during the peak season, we recommend booking your permit a head of time and make all the necessary arrangement for the purchase of your permits.
On a daily only 96 gorilla permits are available for gorilla trekking with each permit costing US$ 1,500 per visitors for one hour visit, the gorilla permits offer visitors a chance to visit one habituated gorilla family for one hour.
By purchasing a gorilla permit, you are contributing to conservation efforts and support the development of local communities.
Attractions In Rwanda
Kigali City
Kigali City is the capital of Rwanda. This beautiful city is renowned for being very clean and safe which is why it is crowned “the cleanliest city in Rwanda”, this city is the main entry and exit point for visitors coming for a Rwanda safari and also tourists on a combining safari to Uganda and Rwanda.
It is easy to transfer from Rwanda to Uganda with border crossing via Cyanika Border point or Katuna Border.
The Kigali International Airport is the main gateway to Rwanda and is situated in Kigali City, this airstrip has direct flights from Europe to Kigali served by KLM, Brussels airlines and flights via Middle East with Qatar airways or Emirates.
Kigali City is a very clean and safe city and the local people have a “Umuganda Day” when they engage in compulsory cleaning of their city, this day is not taken lightly that even the president himself is often seen cleaning the city and collecting the rubbish.
While on a Rwanda, spending a day Kigali City offers a chance to visit The Genocide Memorial, Market centers and enjoy the local life of the locals and witness how this beautiful country has moved from its dark past.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park – the home for the gentle giants – mountain gorillas, gorilla trekking is Rwanda is the main safari activity attracting millions of tourists interested in having an encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural setting.
Volcanoes National Park is found in the Northwestern of Rwanda bordering Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park, the park is dominated by 5 out of 8 Virunga volcanoes which are forested.
Volcanoes National Park is ranked as the best gorilla trekking destination in the world, other amazing activities that you can do in Volcanoes National Park on a Rwanda include visiting to the Ib’Iwancu cultural village, golden monkey trekking and guided nature walks.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is the largest and the only savannah park in Rwanda, Akagera is also the only home to the Big Five and other wildlife species in Rwanda.
Akagera National Park is located in Eastern Rwanda covering an area of 2500 square kilometers mainly dominated by savannah plains, the park and its ecosystem is fed by Akagera River flowing along Rwanda’s eastern boundary and from which the park gets its name.
Akagera National Park is home to a variety of wildlife including antelopes like bushbucks, Topis, Oribis, water-buck, roan antelopes and duikers, impalas and cape eland – the world’s largest antelope. Primates such as vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bush babies, blue monkeys, olive baboons and the Big Five -lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, rhinos and rhinos.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a great chimpanzee destination located in South western Rwanda in Cyangungu near Lake Kivu and near the border of Rwanda with Burundi and the DR. Congo.
Nyungwe Forest National Park hosts the largest remaining montane forest in Africa and has been in existence since the Ice Age period, the forest is believed to be one of the sources of the great River Nile because of its alternating mountainous, hilly and flat terrain dominating the park.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is popular for primates with huge number of monkeys, olive baboons, grey cheeked mangabey, L’Hoest’s Monkeys among others.
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is one of the African Great Lake lying on the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, this beautiful lake is surrounded by magnificent moutains and has deep emerald green waters covering a surface are of 2,700 square kilometers.
Lake Kivu is the largest lake and the six largest in Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rwanda Safari Holiday
How To Acquire a Rwanda Gorilla Permit?
To get a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda, there are two options
- Getting in touch with Rwanda Development Board which is the official government board responsible for issuing gorilla permits
- You can also book the gorilla permits as part of your trip at an extra cost and save you from the hustle.
How Much Is A Rwanda Safari Tour?
A Rwanda safari with gorilla trekking can cost from $ 2000 to $ 7000 depending on your accommodation choice.
Note: these prices do not include visa fee to enter Rwanda and other personal expenses. It also be noted that prices will depend on how many people are travelling, the bigger the group, the lesser the cost as compared to when traveling alone.
How Much Is A Gorilla Trekking Permit In Rwanda?
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking costs US $ 1500 each person per trek, it excludes accommodations and transportations to the park.
Note: Rwanda has no discounts on gorilla trekking permits for low season and the minimum age limit to track gorillas15 years old.
What Is The Best Time To See Gorillas In Rwanda?
Even though gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be done throughout the year, however the best time to go for Rwanda gorilla trek is during the dry months of December to early February or June to September.
These months offer a guaranteed best hiking experience in Rwanda.
How Difficult Is Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda?
Compared to gorilla trekking in Uganda, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is less difficult and normally takes about 2-4 hours. However, it can be very challenging to people who are unfit or differently abled tourists since it involves hiking through thick jungles with tough undergrowth plants with clear paths.
Your guide will create a path with tough undergrowth plants with a machette to create path for you when you to reach the gorillas.
Note: gorilla trekking in Rwanda is strictly restricted to 15 years and above mainly because of the challenging and usually muddy hike which makes it tough difficult for children.
How To Prepare For Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda?
Trekking through the jungles of volcanoes national park and the steep terrain can be tough, expect to come in contact with itching plants, fire ants and unexpected rain. However, with proper planning and carrying the right items. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes national park will be less of a nightmare.
Your packing list for gorilla trekking in Rwanda must include
- Comfortable hiking/trekking boots
- Gardening gloves
- Long sleeved shirts/blouses
- Long pants
- Sun glasses
- A hut
- Insect repellents
- First aid kit
- Rain jacket
Where To Stay On A Rwanda Safari Holiday (Best Rwanda Safari Lodges)
Rwanda is renowned for having some of the world-class accommodations categorized which varies depending on your budget.
Note: most of the lodges are relatively not cheap, there are city hotels as well as safari lodges and luxury camps which are normally located in the National Parks and Game Reserves. Some of the luxurious lodges for example those in Volcanoes National Park are expensive as they are a perfect base for going to gorilla trekking, these lodges are on point with everything from best services, sumptuous meals and exclusive setting to some of the best views you can possibly have during your Rwanda safari.
One & Only Gorilla Nest – Volcanoes National Park
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest is a luxury lodge nestled in the tall eucalyptus trees resembling the atmosphere proving guests with the sense of endless adventure and exclusivity.
Gorilla’s Nest offers an exclusive fitness Centre and meditation deck that is ideal for re-wilding your inner soul and connecting to nature, visitors get to experience a world- class spa and club one for guests to enjoy an infinity pool.
Visitors get to enjoy a healthy breakfast under the green shades with birds singing and lunch in the Nest, the tree house like dining area overlooking surrounding rainforest and bamboo
Singita Kwitonda – Volcanoes National Park
Singita Kwitonda is a luxurious lodge in Volcanoes National Park, this lodge is one of the perfect accommodations to stay at while on a Rwanda safari. The lodge features single- and 2-bedroom suites and the iconic luxury villas with four bedrooms perfect for families.
All suites guarantee an incredible view of the volcanoes chain of Volcanoes national park, the suites come with a rest areas and dressing rooms, private terrace.
Singita Kwitonda Lodge has 8 luxurious suites and features private heated plunge pools and in- and outdoor fireplaces.
Ruziz Tented Lodge – Akagera National Park
Ruzizi Tented Lodge is a beautiful Lodge situated among lush green of palms and fig trees of Akagera National Park and is accessible via wooden path.
The tented lodge has spacious suites with own bathroom each dressing areas and a King size or twin beds, each tent opens onto small paradise where you can sit and enjoy the peace and ambiance of the forest, excellent views of the lake and an important area for birdlife.
Magashi Lodge – Akagera National Park
Magashi Lodge is a luxury Lodge in Akagera National Park with luxury tents perched like butterflies on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga, the lodge is approached by boat.
Magashi Lodge is has an intimate relaxed atmosphere and visitors are welcomed by their traditional Kugisha supper accompanied by cattle – herding songs and stories.
Serena Hotel – Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a beautiful lake lying in the Africa’s Great Rift Valley, the lake is located in west of Rwanda surrounded by magnificent mountains and has deep emerald green waters covering a surface area of 2,700 square kilometers.
Lake Kivu is the sixth largest lake in Africa and the largest in Rwanda, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is situated alongside the shores of Lake Kivu with incredible scenery.