Rwanda safaris

Rwanda is famously called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and while most travellers visit the country for gorilla trekking, Rwanda has successfully expanded its safari circuit to include the “Big Five” and world-class primate trekking. Cultural experiences and tours across the country also compliment Rwanda’s wildlife safaris.

Away from wildlife and culture, Rwanda has also developed sports complexes like the BK Arena and Amahoro Stadium in Kigali for international sports events like Basketball, football and music concerts. Kigali Convention Centre is the country’s hub for international conferences and meetings hosting thousands of delegates at the same time.

Here is what to do and see on a Rwanda safari in 2026.

1. The Prime Attraction: Primate Encounters

Rwanda is a global leader in primate conservation particularly endangered species like mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. There are three distinct experiences you shouldn’t miss:

• Mountain Gorilla Trekking. This breathtaking encounter takes place in Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s ultimate bucket-list item. You’ll hike through misty bamboo forests to spend exactly one hour with a habituated gorilla family. A gorilla permit for each visitor which is booked in advance is sold at $1,500.
• Chimpanzee Tracking. This takes place in Nyungwe national park in the Southwest of Rwanda close to the border with Burundi. Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe maybe more tenacious than gorilla trekking because chimps tend to move fast through the canopy. Rwanda’s chimpanzee permit is currently (2026) sold at $250 per person.
• Golden Monkey Tracking (Volcanoes National Park): These colorful, playful primates live in the lower bamboo zones of the park. The activity is less strenuous and affordable ($100 person) and it is always combines with gorilla trekking by many visitors to the park.

2. The Savannah Game Drive: Akagera National Park

Lovers of a traditional safari with big game like lions and elephants, should head east to Akagera national park. It is the only place in Rwanda to see the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, and Buffalo). Other experiences to explore at the park include;

• Boat Safari on Lake Ihema: A great way to see hippos, massive Nile crocodiles, and the rare Shoebill stork.
• Night Game Drives: One of the few parks in the region where you can search for nocturnal predators like leopards and hyenas.

3. Adventure & Scenery

• Nyungwe Canopy Walkway: A 160-meter-long suspension bridge hanging 70 meters above the forest floor. It offers an amazing aerial view of the ancient treetops and the park’s beautiful surroundings
• Lake Kivu: Majority of visitors head to Lake Kivu after trekking gorillas in volcanoes national park to relax at the resort towns of Gisenyi or Kibuye. It’s a stunning “inland sea” perfect for kayaking, island hopping, or just relaxing by the water.
• Volcano Hiking: This an adventurous and tenacious activity for the physically fit travellers. Hikes are organised to Mount Bisoke (which has a crater lake at the top) and Mount Karisimbi (the highest peak). The summits also offer breathtaking views of the surroundings including other volcano peaks and crater lakes.

4. Culture & History

• Kigali Genocide Memorial: Located in the centre of Kigali, this is a sobering but essential stop offering an insight into the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Visitors get a chance to understand Rwanda’s journey of reconciliation and its incredible modern-day resilience.
• Gorilla Guardians Village (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village): Located near Volcanoes National Park, this community-run village features traditional dancing, drumming, and a chance to learn about ancient Rwandan royalty.

Best Time Visit Rwanda

The long dry season of June to September offers the best gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes national park since the trails are dry and gorillas and other wildlife are easy to spot. December to February is also another another favourable season to visit with excellent weather, great photography and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Rainy season of March to May may not be ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing but it is the best for chimpanzee tracking since fruits are lower in the trees while lodges also tend to lower their rates in this season.

Pro-Tip for visitors in 2026

If you are planing to visit both Rwanda and Uganda (or Kenya), it is recommended you apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100). It allows multi-entry travel between these countries on a single permit, saving you money and paperwork.

Selected itineraries for Rwanda safaris and tours