Luxury African Safaris To

Rwanda

HIGHLIGHT

Rwanda is a top Luxury African Safaris destination—especially for gorilla-trekking, chimpanzees, rainforest lodges, cozy luxury and combining wildlife + culture.

Rwanda

Remarkable Rwanda

Kigali Genocide Memorial

Akagera National Park

Akagera is Rwanda’s answer to the savannah parks of Kenya and Tanzania and is utterly different in the landscape from anywhere else in the country. Prior to the genocide, when much of the wildlife was slaughtered or driven over the border, this was considered one of the better parks in East Africa. Today, thanks to outside investment, wildlife numbers are increasing and most people get to see zebras, impalas, topis, giraffes, masses of hippos and crocodiles, and even elephants, lions, and rhinos. There are three distinct environments in the park: standard savannah as seen in much of the region; an immense swampy area along the border with Tanzania that contains six lakes and numerous islands, some of which are covered with forest; and a chain of low mountains on the flanks of the park with variable vegetation, ranging from short grasses on the summits to wooded savannah and dense thickets of forest. Note that park fees are valid for one night – in other words, if you arrive when the park opens at 6 am and leave the next day at 6 pm, you’ll still pay US$40 (and not US$80).

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, which runs along the border with the DRC and Uganda, is home to the Rwandan section of the Virungas. Comprising five volcanoes, the Virungas are utterly spellbinding and few would argue that this is not one of the most exciting national parks in Africa. We probably needn’t remind you, but of all the extraordinary sights and attractions around the Virungas, the one that really draws people here are the famous mountain gorillas.

While most tourists to the park are understandably driven by the desire to have a face-to-face encounter with real gorillas in the mist, there is good reason to stay in the area once you’ve finished tracking: the gorillas share the park with rare golden monkeys, a troop of which has also been habituated to human contact. The Virungas, which tower over Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC, also present a variety of rewarding climbing and trekking options. To get the most from the Virungas give yourself as much time as you possibly can as this is absolutely a park that rewards those who linger.

Lake Kivu

Be prepared to fall on your knees in awe: spread across a series of tongues jutting into Lake Kivu, Kibuye (Karongi) is one of the most scenic cities in Rwanda. The steep hills that fall into the deep green waters and the indented shoreline with a smattering of islands nearby make it extremely picturesque. It’s a green little town where nothing much seems to happen in a hurry. In short, if you’re after a mellow place to decompress, Kibuye is your answer.

When to visit Rwanda

Dry seasons are ideal: June to September, and December to February. Trails are easier, visibility is better. Wet seasons bring lush scenery, fewer crowds, but more challenging trekking, muddy paths.

Our Safaris

Why Book Your Safari With Us?

We offer more than just another wildlife adventure, but a journey into the heart of nature.

Key Destinations in Rwanda

1. Volcanoes National Park

  • Famous for: Mountain gorilla trekking (the highlight of Rwanda travel).

  • Also home to golden monkeys, other primates, rare birds, and the Virunga Volcanoes.

  • Dian Fossey’s research base (and grave site hike).

  • Luxury lodges: Singita Kwitonda, Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.


2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

  • One of Africa’s oldest rainforests, lush and biodiverse.

  • Chimpanzee trekking and tracking over 12 other primate species.

  • Famous canopy walkway suspended high above the rainforest.

  • Ideal for hiking, birding, and nature immersion.

  • Luxury lodge: One&Only Nyungwe House.


3. Akagera National Park

  • Classic savannah safari in eastern Rwanda.

  • Big Five present: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and black rhinos.

  • Lakes and wetlands: boat safaris on Lake Ihema with hippos and crocs.

  • Luxury lodge: Wilderness Magashi Camp.


4. Lake Kivu

  • One of Africa’s Great Lakes, on the Rwanda–DRC border.

  • Perfect for relaxing between gorilla treks and safaris.

  • Offers boat cruises, kayaking, fishing, coffee tours.

  • Popular lakeside towns: Gisenyi, Kibuye, Cyangugu.


5. Kigali (the Capital)

  • Clean, modern, and welcoming city.

  • Cultural highlights: Kigali Genocide Memorial, art galleries, craft markets.

  • Excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife.

  • Often used as the entry and exit point for safaris.


6. Twin Lakes: Burera & Ruhondo

  • Near Volcanoes National Park.

  • Scenic lakes framed by the Virunga Volcanoes.

  • Activities: canoeing, birding, community visits, hikes.

  • Ideal for a tranquil stay before/after gorilla trekking.


7. Gishwati-Mukura National Park (Lesser-Known Gem)

  • Newly established, west of Nyungwe.

  • Small rainforest with chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and rare birds.

  • Good for eco-tourism and less-crowded primate trekking.

Itinerary: 5 – 6 Days Rwanda Spectacular

DayHighlight
Day 1Arrive Kigali → City tour: Genocide Memorial, museums, markets; dinner in Kigali.
Day 2Drive to Volcanoes National Park; stay at Singita Kwitonda or Bisate Lodge.
Day 3Gorilla trekking; then golden monkey trekking or forest walks; relax at lodge.
Day 4Travel to Akagera National Park; game drives, boat safari around Lake Ihema; stay at Magashi Camp.
Day 5Early game drive; return to Kigali; stop at sights on route; final night in Kigali.
Day 6Depart or extend to Lake Kivu for lakeside relaxation.

Key Cost Components

Here are the major cost items you’ll need to account for:

ItemTypical Cost / Notes
Gorilla Trek PermitUS$ 1,500/person for Volcanoes National Park for all international visitors.
Accommodation (Luxury lodges)Between US$ 500-US$ 3,000+ per person per night depending on lodge, room type, season. 
Other Permits/FeesGolden monkey permits (~US$ 100), Dian Fossey hike (~US$ 75), others if included.
Transport / TransfersFlights to/from Rwanda; transfers to parks; internal transport (4×4 vehicle, sometimes charter). Costs depend on whether you fly or drive, group size.
Meals, Guide, Park Fees, etc.Usually included in luxury safari packages, but always check what is—some lodges include everything, others exclude premium drinks, spa, etc.

Share

Rwanda