Rwanda Safaris
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking, also known as the “land of a thousand hills,” is a small but beautiful country located in East Africa, It’s surrounded by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the capital city of Kigali, which is recognised as the cleanest city in Africa. Despite its tumultuous past, Rwanda has become a popular tourism destination in recent years, thanks to its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
With a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy that range from gorilla trekking to canopy walks, there’s something for everyone, so it’s no surprise that Rwanda has become a popular safari hotspot in Africa.
Why Choose Rwanda for Your Safari?
Rwanda may be small, but it is home to some of Africa’s most breathtaking national parks and wildlife reserves. The country is known for its conservation efforts, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience wildlife in their natural habitat.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park. One of the main attractions in Rwanda is the opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a must-visit for any safari-goer.
During this activity, tourists can also visit celebrated primatologist Dian Fossey’s grave and pay tribute to her, She was laid to rest on the slopes of Mountain Karisoke, where she carried out research on gorilla conservation and therefore gorilla trekking is now possible because of her hard work.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Another must-do activity in Rwanda is chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest. This vast rainforest is home to over 400 chimpanzees, as well as several other primates, including colobus vervet monkeys and mangabeys. Like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking involves hiking through the lush forest to find a family of chimpanzees and spending some time observing how intelligent and social they are while in their natural habitat.
Nyungwe Forest is also a great place for bird watching, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the park. Visitors can also indulge in nature walks through the park, these are done in the company of a guide who helps you navigate through the forest and identify the different plants, animals and birds you might come across. It’s a wonderful activity that enables you to bond with nature.
Culture Safaris in Rwanda
Rwanda is also a country with a rich cultural heritage, and tourists can experience this heritage through cultural safaris. These safaris offer visitors a chance to learn about the country’s rich history, traditions, and way of life.
Visitors can explore local villages, meet traditional healers, and learn about the country’s arts and crafts. One popular cultural attraction is the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. This museum is a replica of the traditional palace of the Rwandan monarchy, and visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Rwandan kings.
Another popular cultural attraction is the Ethnographic Museum in Huye. This museum features exhibits of traditional Rwandan art, music, and dance. Rwanda is also home to several genocide memorials, which offer a sombre but important reminder of the country’s troubled past.
Golden Monkey Tracking
In addition to gorillas and chimpanzees, Rwanda is also home to another primate species, the golden monkey. These rare and endangered primates are found in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park, and visitors can go on a golden monkey trek to see them up close. These treks are less strenuous than gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, making them a good option for visitors who are less physically fit.
Big 5 Safaris in Akagera National Park
Rwanda is not just a prime destination. Visitors can also go on a Big 5 safari in Akagera National Park, located in the eastern part of Rwanda. This park is home to all of the big 5 game animals—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos—as well as several other species, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Visitors can explore the park on game drives, guided walks, or boat cruises on the beautiful Lake Ihema.
Boat Cruises
Speaking of boat cruises, Rwanda offers several opportunities for visitors to explore its beautiful lakes and waterways. In addition to Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park, visitors can also take boat cruises on Lake Kivu, a stunning lake located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Lake Kivu is surrounded by beautiful hills and is a great place to relax and unwind. While here, visitors can also swim in the fresh waters, and go kayaking or paddleboarding.
Best time to visit Rwanda.
The best time to visit Rwanda depends on what activities you are interested in. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking is possible year-round, but the dry season (June to September and December to February) is generally considered the best time to visit Rwanda for tours.
During the dry season, the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to hike through the forests. The wet season (March to May and October to November) can be more challenging, with muddy and slippery trails, but it is also a good time to visit for bird watching and enjoying the lush green landscape.
Whether you are an adventure-seeker or a nature-lover, a safari to Rwanda is sure to be a memorable experience. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the wonders of this beautiful country.
