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  • Meet Gorillas & Wildlife on Rwanda Safari

    Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, where breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity converge in a compact and accessible setting. In Africa, few countries offer both the thrill of a classic savannah safari and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of trekking endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, and the Republic of Rwanda is one of them. From the open plains of Akagera National Park, home to lions, elephants, and giraffes, to the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park, where gorillas roam freely, visitors can seamlessly blend two contrasting but complementary adventures.

    This guide to combining wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking in Rwanda highlights how best to plan your journey, why one should go for the experience, when to travel, and what to expect from each experience. Whether you are a first-time traveler to Africa or an avid safari enthusiast seeking new horizons, Rwanda’s unique mix of wildlife encounters and immersive jungle treks promises an unforgettable adventure.

    Why Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Safari?

    Diverse experiences in one country

    Gorilla trekking in the lush rain forests of Volcanoes National Park offers a close, emotional connection with one of the world’s most endangered primates. In contrast, a safari in Akagera National Park provides the thrill of seeing elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, and rhinos roaming the savannah. Together, they create a complete African wildlife experience.

    Compact travel distances

    Unlike many African countries, where parks are spread far apart, Rwanda is small and easy to navigate. In less than a week, you can trek gorillas in the north and enjoy a big game safari in the east without long, exhausting transfers.

    Balanced adventure

    Gorilla trekking is physically demanding but short in duration (a few hours to a day). A safari, on the other hand, offers more relaxed game drives and boat cruises. Combining them balances adventure with leisure.

    Unforgettable memories

    Few destinations allow you to look into the eyes of a wild gorilla one day and watch a pride of lions on the savannah the next. The contrast and richness of experiences make Rwanda stand out as a truly unique safari destination

    Where to go for a combined gorilla trekking and wildlife safari in Rwanda

    Volcanoes National Park

    Located in the northwestern region, Volcanoes National Park is the heart of gorilla tourism in Rwanda. Set against the dramatic Virunga Mountains, the park protects 12 habituated gorilla families that can be seen during a gorilla trekking experience. Treks begin from Kinigi and typically last 2–6 hours.

    Note: Gorilla trekking permits cost USD 1500 per person, and this includes the park entrance fees, which are also used in supporting gorilla conservation and community projects.

    Akagera National Park

    Akagera is a protected area in the eastern part of Rwanda with a total coverage of 1,122 square kilometers along the international border with Tanzania. Named after the Kagera River, which flows along its eastern boundary, feeding into Lake Ihema, the park is known for protecting several wildlife species within its open savannah plains, woodlands, and rivers. Among the animals to see are: Elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles on boat safaris. Also, over 500 bird species, including fish eagles and shoebills

    Travel tips for a combined experience

    • Book your gorilla permits early — especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–February)
    • Use a trusted tour operator who can handle logistics and transportation
    • Pack for both rainforest and savannah — you’ll need layers, hiking boots, and lighter clothing
    • Consider adding extra nights to enjoy slow travel and reduce fatigue

    What to pack for the experience

    • Waterproof walking boots and gaiters (trails are often muddy).
    • Lightweight, breathable layers; a warm fleece for early mornings.
    • Waterproof jacket and rain pants.
    • Thin gloves, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent.
    • Camera with telephoto lens for Akagera and close-focus lens for gorillas; spare batteries and memory cards.
    • Small daypack, water bottle, snacks, basic first-aid, and any personal meds.
    • Copies of permits, passport, and travel insurance details.
      (Operators and park pages give detailed practical lists.)

    Health, safety & practical tips

    Vaccinations & malaria: check yellow fever and routine vaccinations; malaria prophylaxis is usually recommended for some areas — consult your travel clinic.

    Fitness & trekking difficulty: gorilla treks vary from short (1–2 hours) to very strenuous (up to 6–8+ hours) depending on gorilla locations. Be realistic about fitness and altitude.

    Respect the rules: keep distance, don’t touch, avoid flash photography when directed, and follow guide instructions — these rules protect both visitors and gorillas.

    Best time to go for the experience

    Dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are easiest for both gorilla treks (less muddy trails) and wildlife viewing (animals easier to spot). Shoulder months can offer fewer crowds and lower prices. (Park operator and tour pages list seasonal advice.)

    Sample itinerary

    Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, city cultural tour, and rest.

    Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes/sector for gorilla briefing.

    Day 3: Gorilla trek in Volcanoes; transfer back to Kigali or stay near Musanze.

    Day 4: Drive to Akagera (east) — late afternoon boat cruise or night at lodge.

    Day 5: Full day game drive in Akagera; return to Kigali / depart.
    (Variants add a Nyungwe stop or a Lake Kivu extension.)

    Conclusion

    A Rwanda itinerary that pairs Akagera’s open savannah with Volcanoes National Park’s intimate gorilla encounters offers extraordinary diversity in a single, efficient trip. With permits secured early, a sensible pace, and a commitment to responsible travel, you will experience one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories while contributing directly to local communities and wildlife protection.

  • Essential Guide to Primate Watching in Rwanda

    Essential Guide to Primate Watching in Rwanda

    Often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda is one of the world’s most rewarding destinations for primate lovers. From the iconic mountain gorillas in the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park to playful golden monkeys, lively chimpanzees, and rare colobus monkeys in Nyungwe Forest, the country offers unmatched opportunities to encounter primates in their natural habitats. A Rwanda safari is not only about wildlife viewing but also about conservation, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. This guide highlights where to go, what to expect, and essential tips to make your primate adventure in Rwanda truly unforgettable.

    Where to Go for Primate Watching in Rwanda

    Rwanda is known for protecting exceptional national parks where one can see the incredible primates. Among these national parks are;

    Volcanoes National Park

    Located in the north-western part of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is one of the only five destinations in the world where one can see the incredible mountain gorillas. The park protects 12 habituated gorilla families that can be seen in the mist Virunga rainforest during a mountain gorilla trekking experience.

    Apart from mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to the shy and beautiful golden monkeys. These creatures can be seen during the golden monkey tracking experience that involves trekking into lush bamboo forests. Volcanoes has two habituated golden monkey groups that are about 60 to 100 in number and these make the viewing reliable and rewarding.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park (southwest Rwanda)

    In the South-western part of the Republic of Rwanda, Nyungwe forest National Park is another destination where Rwanda primate watching is done. The park is a home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, Angola (Ruwenzori) colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, silver monkeys, and golden monkeys. But of all these species, the park is mostly visited for the chimpanzee tracking experience. The activity involves walking through the park’s rainforests to search for the endangered apes, and once found, you will be allowed to spend a full hour in their presence.

    Secure the necessary permits

    For one to take part in the Rwanda primate watching experience, he or she must secure the necessary permits from Rwanda Development Board or through a licensed and registered tour operator. These permits range from different prices according to the activity that is USD 1500 for gorilla trekking, USD 100 for golden monkey tracking and USD 100 per person for chimpanzee tracking.

    Book the right accommodation

    There are different accommodations from which one can choose during the primate watching experience. These accommodations suit every budget from luxury lodges to affordable guesthouses and campsites. All the lodge types can be found close to the park entrance but luxury ones offer added comfort, and sometimes even spa services, while mid-range and budget options provide cozy, simple stays that let you connect with nature.

    Prepare for the physical challenge

    Primate trekking can be physically demanding, especially when tracking gorillas in mountainous, dense forests. Depending on where the gorillas are that day, a trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours. To make the experience easier, start walking or hiking regularly before your trip to make your body strong and prepared for any physical hardship.

    Pack responsibly for the adventure

    When planning for a Rwanda primate watching safari, you have to make a proper packing list. Among the items to pack for the trek include, waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, breathable pants, a rain jacket, a camera and gloves. Also, don’t forget the hat, and sunglasses protect you from the sun, while insect repellent helps keep bugs away. In your small backpack, include the water, snacks and binoculars that you will use to spot wildlife from a distance.

    Best time to visit Rwanda for primate watching safari

    Primate safari destinations can be visited all year round but the best time is during the dry season which is in the months of June to September and December to February. This is because the trails are less muddy and thus making the trek easier.

    During the wet seasons, you can still proceed with the experience but come prepared with waterproof gear and be ready for more challenging trails and lush landscapes

    Trekking Rules and Regulations

    • Always follow park guidelines to protect both primates and yourself:
    • Keep a minimum distance (e.g., 7 meters for gorillas; similar for golden monkeys and chimps)
    • No flash photography, smoking, eating, or rapid movement
    • Do not touch any primates, and sick individuals should refrain from trekking.

  • See the Beauty of Rwanda

    Experience the Beauty of Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills!

  • Museum of Rwanda Ancient History in Nyanza-Rukari

    Under the reign of King Yuhi V Musinga in 1899, Nyanza became the Royal Capital of the country. The court became the home of artistic and intellectual activities and was also a place for economic exchange.
    At the site, visitors can enjoy Rwandan Traditional Royal home and the INYAMBO/ Royal traditional cows, and then proceed to residence of King Mutara III Rudahigwa build in 1932.
    On the neighboring hill of Mwima, one can visit the burial site of King Mutara III and his wife Queen Rosalie Gicanda.

  • Batwa in Kamonyi

    The Batwa in Kamonyi are populary known for their music. They belong to the indigenous Batwa Community of the Great Lakes Region.

  • Kakira – Art Imigongo

    IMIGONGO is an art form popular in Rwanda. This art form came into being end of the 18th century in the province of Kibungo (South-East of Rwanda), and is traditionally done by women. Originally it was used for decorations inside the walls of huts. The Imigongo paintings are created from calf dung applied to wooden plates, which forms the structure and relief of the paintings. It is often including the spiral and geometric designs in different natural colors, such as black, white and red. Today, even modern designs are made with more variation in colour.

    On the road to Rusumo in Eastern Province near Kirehe, there are two women’s coops selling this most unique of Rwanda’s traditional crafts. Vibrant traditional geometric designs and modern innovations are both available.

    At the beginning of the 19th century, Prince Kakira, the son of the King of Gisaka, lived in the Province of Kibungo, known today as Eastern Province. It was then and there that he invented the art of decorating houses. He began to paint geometric motifs directly onto the walls, using different natural colors, such as black, white, and burgundy.

    kakira imigongo art rwanda

    A crafts cooperative named after Prince Kakira exists in Rwanda today. This cooperative was inspired by the art of the prince, adapting his mural paintings and motifs to create the decorative “IMIGONGO” paintings, which are painted on wooden plates of different sizes. The cooperative still uses natural materials for the paintings, such as, for example, cow dung, which forms the structure and relief of the paintings. Red color is made from natural soil, white color from kaolin. Ocher is gained from clay, while the shining black color is based on the ashes of banana peels, mixed with the sap of the aloe plant as well as with the fruits of the solanum aculeastrum plant.

    Today, the paintings created by the members of the KAKIRA cooperative are well and widely known. They are very much in demand, as they constitute unique and typically Rwandan works of art.

    Enjoy Rwanda

  • The Rock of Kamegeri

    Kamegeri was a leader under the reign of king Mibambwe Sekarongoro Mutabazi who was burnt on that rock after he had asked that criminals be thrown on that rock after it was made red-hot.

    Since then that rock cliff was attributed to him to become the Rock of Kamegeri, which is situated at Ruhango
    The rock had always existed without a name but later got the name when a man by names of Chief Kamegeri decided a wrong punishment for a man who had disrespected the king, and in turn the King ordered Chief Kamegeri to be burnt on that rock because chief Kamegeri was unhuman since he was proposing horrible death for other people.

  • Rwanda Dancing at WTM London 2010

    Rwandan dancers at the World Travel Market London in 2010

  • NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK now has its own Canopy Walk

    NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK now has its own Canopy Walk

    The first ever hanging platform which allows tourists to view different animal species in Nyungwe forest was unveiled on October 15. And as officials here announced, it will be the first in this region and just the third on the African continent.

    The Canopy Walkway is 40 meters above the ground level, and 90 meters long, above a steep, deep valley, that affords the clients the dizzying platform from which to be at the ” eye-to-eye level ” with different primate species, and many bird species, all of which are fond of inhabiting the upper scales of the forest.

    Facts about the park and the walkway:

    Its a high altitude montane rain forest
    the biggest in East Africa
    it is a 200m walkway with three towers
    it was finished in the middle of 2010

    Tourists will be at the “eye-to-eye level” with different primate species, and many bird species. (by RNA Reporter )

    Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest – Rwanda

    The Canopy Walkway which has been competed in the Nyungwe Forest National Park in south western Rwanda is 50 meters above the ground level, and 90 meters long. The dizzying platform is above a steep and deep valley trotting across massive forest.

    Tourism officials at the Rwanda Development Board say at that height, tourists will be at the “eye-to-eye level” with different primate species, and many bird species, all of which are fond of inhabiting the upper scales of the forest.

    The 200m walkway with three towers are the biggest in East Africa, said RDB in an online statement.
    Spread over hundreds of square meters Nyungwe is said to be largest and most ancient Afro-Montane forest remaining in the East & Central Africa, dating back to the last ice age.

    The forest has 13 rare primate species, the world’s largest ever recorded arboreal troop of black/white colobus monkeys, over 300 species of birds and 100 types of orchid.
    Nyungwe Forest and chimpanzee tracking is the ideal compliment to any gorilla safari.
    It also has the five-star Nyungwe Forest Lodge – owned by United Arab Emirates holdings firm Dubai World.