Affordable Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari experience

RWANDA- THE LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS

Rwanda gorilla trekking & wild safari tours

Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari experience in the Eastern region of Africa, located 2 degrees Celsius South of the Equator ; Known as the land of a thousand hills which cascade off the ranges of the Virunga volcanic mountains in Northern Rwanda giving a stunning scenery to the country. With warmly welcoming and friendly people, extraordinary biodiversity, incredible wildlife living throughout it’s volcanoes, montane rainforests and sweeping plains, Rwanda offers a unique experience making it one of the most remarkable countries in the world.

Rwanda’s capital, Kigali is one of Africa’s cleanest and green cities is centrally positioned and serves as the main gateway to a range of exciting attractions and beautiful experiences out-doors. Kigali has got beautiful state of the art infrastructure that has left any visitor amazed after having a cool city tour around the capital.

Kigali also provides a wide range of local art and craft made by the local people that represent their culture from all over the walks of the history of the country, along with golf courses, resorts and parks that keep you relaxed and warmly occupied.

Where is Rwanda located?
How is the weather in Rwanda?
What is the capital city of Rwanda?
What’s Rwanda’s history and cult ure?
What’s the cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
What are the incentives / discounts on gorilla trekking permits?
What is the cost of chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda?
Where to find crafts & souvenirs in Rwanda
Coffee shops in Kigali

Rwanda safari adventure

Rwanda’s nature and geographical set set up has gifted it with natural habitats for wildlife, mountains and montane rainforests, crater lakes, Fresh water lakes, rivers and game parks. some of these include the Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, leisure spots like lake Kivu, eco-parks along with various historical sites decoding the walk of life of the Rwandese people. Kigali city is also a place not to pass-by as it is a stronghold and pillar of the nation with it’s iconic infrastructure.

Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari packages

mountain gorillas on Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari

Gorilla trekking Rwanda

Gorilla trekking Rwanda is renown for accessible luxury and affordable endangered mountain gorilla tracking in the Virunga massif's Volcanoes national park. Volcanoes national park is one of the world's few tourists destination where you can find mountain gorillas and the only place in Rwanda. Gorilla tracking permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 per person. Hiking into the montane tropical forests in search for gorillas requires physical fitness and preparation. Tracking mountain gorillas is only legible to persons of age 15 years and above. Trekking gorillas in Rwanda comes along Virunga volcanic chain sceneries, birding, caves, crater lakes and primates.

Chimpanzee tracking

Chimpanzee tracking Rwanda is done in Nyungwe forest national park and is one of the most popular tourist activities in the region. Nyungwe forest is one of the world's oldest tropical forest ecosystems therefore also having some of the planet's oldest tree species. Chimpanzee tracking permits in Rwanda cost $150 per person for trackers aging 16 years and above. Along tracking chimpanzees is bird watching (more than 300 recorded species), the canopy walk, rivers and water falls. Combining chimpanzees and gorillas trekking on the same safari is an amazing Rwanda primates safari experience.

Golden monkeys on Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari

golden monkey tracking

Other popular primates in Volcanoes national park besides mountain gorillas are the golden monkeys. Golden monkeys reside in the montane bamboo forests about 2,500m above sea level in the Virunga massif. Tracking golden monkeys Rwanda is also one of the most accessible primates safari experiences. Combined trekking activities Volcanoes national park on safari for both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys are an exciting expedition for travelers. Costs of golden monkey tracking permits are at $100 per person. Golden monkeys are playful making their visit entertaining a perfect complement to the gorilla trekking experience. Tracking golden monkeys also requires physical fitness.

Hot air balloon safari

Hot air balloon tours in Akagera national park, Rwanda is a great experience that gives you the best aerial views of park. Combining game drives in the park with hot air balloon tours gives a complete survey of Akagera's ecosystem. Flights over the swamps and lakes get you to see hippo pods, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, lions, antelopes, birds and the diverse geographical landscape. Exciting scenic sunrise horizon watching and nature from above is the most unique essence of the air balloon tours.

Rwanda luxury & affordable Gorilla trekking & wild safari

Ellen DeGeneres campus of the Dian Fossey fund

An eco-tourism center and museum set up in remembrance of an American primatologist and researcher, Dian Fossey. Dian Fossey dedicated her life to research and preserve the life of endangered mountain gorillas and also protected them from hunters. The campus holds history, stories and knowledge about mountain gorillas. Offering special experiences for example virtual realty videos with gorillas, recorded history of gorilla families, gorilla museum and the tourism conservation efforts done.

Akagera national park

Akagera national park is Rwanda's Africa's big 5 game (lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards) along giraffes, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, water bucks, zebras, primates and reptiles. There are more than 500 recorded bird species in Akagera national park with savanna, acacia woodland and wetland species for example shoebills, kingfishers, eagles, turacos, giant herons, vultures etc. Akagera game park also offers great activities like boat cruises, camping, hiking, nature walks etc.

Volcanoes national park

Volcanoes national park is located in the Virunga massif encompassing 5 of the 8 volcanic mountains. The 5 volcanoes that make up Volcanoes national park are mtn. Karisimbi the highest at 4,507m, mtn. Bisoke (3,711m), mtn. Sabyinyo (3,669m), mtn. Muhabura (4,127m) and mtn. Gahinga (3,474m). Volcanoes national park is renown for affordable luxury mountain gorillas and golden monkey trekking experiences for tourists with over 15 habituated gorilla families. Rwanda's Volcanoes national park is a highly accessible park on a 2.5 hours drive from Kigali city.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is the largest lake in Rwanda located in western part of the country at its border with D.R. Congo and is a gem for holiday makers. With amazing resorts and hotels like Serena hotel, a visit to lake Kivu shows is quiet an entertaining and engaging experience. Starting with relaxing beach space, you'll also enjoy boat cruises, kayaking, canoeing, sport fishing, swimming and sports like beach volley ball. Combining lake Kivu visits with primates and wildlife safari itinerary make complete your Africa inspiration and adventure.

Chimps in Nyungwe forest on Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari

Nyungwe national park

Rwanda's Nyungwe national park covers Nyungwe forest ecosystem in the southern part of the country. Nyungwe is one of Africa's oldest tropical forests and a major water catchment water area to Rwanda. There are over 1,000 tree species, more than 300 recorded bird species and more than 200 butterfly species though the park is known for primates tracking and canopy walk. Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity done in the park along the 160m long and 70m high canopy walk, bird watching, other primates like colobus monkeys, water falls and rivers that fill the Akagera and lake Victoria basins.

Kigali city

Rwanda's capital, Kigali is an amazing and conducive city to tour being Africa's cleanest city. Kigali is also well organized, secure and eco friendly given the national policy that banned plastic use in 2008. Furthermore, visits to genocide memorial site, museums, Kigali convention center and getting to locals in Kimironko market gives you the best picture of the way of life in the country. Also approaches in local textile boutiques, art crafts and coffee shops keep you engaged on city tours. Nature walks and cycling experiences in Nyandungu eco park offer unique ambiance out of the city.

Birding in Rwanda

Safari itineraries in Nyungwe forest, Volcanoes and Akagera national parks give sightings of more than 650 bird species in Rwanda. Special bird species like the Albertine rift endemics and Rwenzori region endemics are also found in montane tropical forests of the Volcanoes and in Nyungwe forest. Akagera national park will give you a variety of savanna, swamp and acacia woodland species for example shoebills, kingfishers, fish eagles, woodpeckers, turacos, warblers, sun birds, bee eaters etc. Birding Rwanda suites well with primates trips & Africa's big 5 game drives.

Canopy walk

The canopy walk in Nyungwe forest national park is 160m long and 70m high giving an excellent view of the tropical forest diversity from above. While on the canopy walkway, you'll also have sightings of lake Kivu in a distance beyond several rolling hills. The minimum age requirement for Nyungwe's canopy walkway is 6 years accompanied by adults/ parents. Best time for canopy walk is during the dry seasons (June- August & December- February) when the ground is less slippery. Dry seasons make it easy to combine the experience with other safari activity. Yet still visits during wet seasons (March- May & September- November) come along with great bird numbers for bird lovers.

Gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda

Rwanda is one of the only 3 destinations in the world that are a natural habitat to the endangered mountain gorillas and has up to 450 gorilla individuals almost 50% of the world’s total population of mountain Gorillas. Rwanda mountain gorilla trekking activities can only be done at the volcanoes national park in the Virunga massifs- an area formed by a combination of various volcano mountains in Virunga area while on a Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari.

Cost of gorilla permits in Rwanda

A gorilla permit on Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari costs $1500 for foreign nationals, $500 for foreign residents in Rwanda, rest of Africa and African nationals and $200 for East African residents and Rwandan citizens.

Incentives and discounts;

All delegates are entitled to a 15% discount on mountain gorilla permits
All African and foreign residents with residence in Africa pay $500 for mountain Gorilla permits.
All East Africans pay $200 for mountain Gorilla permits.
10% of park revenues contribute to community projects around National Parks.

Luxury & affordable Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari packages

Chimpanzee tracking on Rwanda wild safari

Nyungwe National Park has high population of chimpanzees (over 400 individuals) and other primates – 13 species in total. Two chimpanzee communities have been partially habituated in Nyungwe National Park. There are 2 main habituated groups that live in Nyungwe forest national park which are; Uwinka group with around 60 individuals while the rest are found in Cyamudongo group with around 30 individuals. Other species include blue monkeys, mona monkeys, silver monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, the Dent’s monkey, black faced ververt monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, baboons, grey-cheeked Mangabeys, Rwenzori colobus, black and white colobus monkeys.

Cost of chimpanzee trekking safari

Chimpanzee tracking permits on Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari will cost you $150 as a foreign national resident, $75 as a East African foreign resident and $25 as an East African or Rwandan resident.

Rwanda luxury & affordable chimpanzee trekking & wild safari

Plastic Free Rwanda on gorilla trekking & wild safari

Rwanda has been plastic free since 2008. Please leave any plastic bags in your luggage or containing items purchased at duty-free at the airports. Single-use plastics have also been banned and you are advised to use non-plastic packaging.

Kigali

Founded in 1907 as a small administrative outpost with limited access to the outside world, Kigali is today the modern metropolis and heart of emerging Rwandan economy and one of the safest and cleanest capital cities in Africa. The city is buzzing with warmth and creativity plus a burgeoning art scene where you can enjoy a meal or two at the array of restaurants and cafes’ across the city with exquisite views.

Activities to do on Rwanda gorilla trekking & wild safari

Kigali city markets

The Kigali Genocide Memorial; Inaugurated in 2004, the memorial center is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Visit and learn more about the Rwandan society before colonisation, details on the genocide and the post-genocide nation rebuilding through unity and reconciliation.
Made in Rwanda shopping; Looking for souvenirs? Kigali has a variety of locally made textiles, accessories, traditional baskets and more for you and your loved ones. Visit the various markets in surrounding communities across the city for affordable made in Rwanda items. They can be found at the Kimironko market, Kaplaki and the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre.

Kigali city tours

Kigali Golf Resort & Villas; Enjoy a great round at the new 18-hole state of the art golf course. Designed by renown golf legend Gary Player, the beauty of the course lies in the diverse flora and fauna. The omnipresence of the birdlife transforms the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas into the best nature get-away experience so close to the vibrant city centre.
Umusambi Village; This 21-hectare beautifully restored wetland, Umusambi village provides a sanctuary where you can spot over 130 bird species including 50 endangered grey crowned cranes saved from captivity. These majestic birds were disabled and unable to be returned to the wild. Their new permanent home provides an enriching environment for them to enjoy nature again.

Arts and crafts

Nyandungu Eco-Park; Kigali’s newly restored urban wetland, Nyandungu Eco-Park offers a space for visitors to explore and learn from nature and is part of Rwanda’s efforts to harness eco-tourism to restore biodiversity and conserve urban wetland ecosystems. The wetland features a 10km network of walking and cycling paths, viewing areas, picnic areas and a restaurant among other facilities.
Arts & Craft; Kigali features an array of contemporary art studios, including fashion; local handicrafts and art galleries where you can view and buy Rwandan art from art galleries, fashion houses and more.
Fazenda Sengha; Located on Mt. Kigali, this outdoor and recreational centre is suited for families and groups to satisfy an urge to try new hobbies such as paintball, quad bikes, horseback riding, ziplining, badminton, archery and many more.

Restaurants and coffee on Rwanda safari

Bars and Restaurants; Enjoy a wide range of international and local cuisines at the various restaurants and hotels located through the city while taking in breathtaking views. These get you served for both day and Nightlife in the city.
Specialty Coffee tasting; Enjoy an immersive, one of a kind master class of the coffee supply chain that doesn’t require taking a step beyond the cafe at Question Coffee, Kivu Noir or Rubia Cafe all located in the heart of the city. This will include a coffee history lesson, cherry harvesting from trees, a tasting experience of coffees from all over Rwanda and a chance to create your own custom coffee blend.

What is Rwanda's culture & traditional history?

Rwanda has a rich history that precedes colonial time and a tour of our museums speak the importance of Rwanda’s culture and history to the country. Most of these sites showcase in the southern province. A replica of the traditional royal residence, the King’s palace museum is a beautifully crafted thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive. This museum offers a detailed look into the Rwandan traditional seat of the old monarchy. It was restored to it’s 19th century state and made entirely with traditional materials. Traditional dance performances of the Kinyarwanda dance and dress codes are great entertainment on Rwanda gorilla trekking & wild safari.

How to get a tourist visa to Rwanda;

All visitors entering Rwanda can apply on Rwanda’s online immigration portal from anywhere in the world and receive a visa upon arrival a process that saves you from moving with lots of documents. African Union, Commonwealth and La Francophonie member states can get free visas upon arrival in Rwanda for a one month visit.

What is Rwanda's currency?

Rwanda’s currency is the Rwandan Franc (RwF). You will find ATMs and point of sales devices that accept all cards such as VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and JCB and China Union Pay, Credit cards are also accepted in shopping malls and restaurants.

What tourist activities can be done in Rwanda?

Gorilla Trekking is the most popular tourist activity in Rwanda followed by;
Chimpanzee tracking
Golden monkey and other primate tracking
Nature walks
Canopy walks
Mountain climbing
Hiking
Safari drives
The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos)
Boat cruises
Kayaking
City tours
Birding
Cultural experience
Cycling among many others.

Cost of Rwanda safari

Rwanda Gorilla trekking & wild safari will cost you a daily expense of between $330-$380 for budget travel, $650-$700 for mid-range travel and $1,500-$20,000 and more for luxury travel. These costs will increase depending on the amenities like class of lodge or hotel, transport means, length of visit, tourist activities to be done among other offers.

How is Rwanda's weather, climate and seasons?

Rwanda lies south of the equator and much of the country lying at altitude; Rwanda enjoys an agreeable tropical highland climate. Peak temperatures rarely exceed 30⁰C (86⁰F) in the day time and drop below 15⁰C(59⁰F) at night. The average daily temperature in Kigali is 21⁰C (70⁰F). Overall, the country’s four climactic seasons are represented through the long rainy season: March to May, and short rainy season: September to November. These seasons alternate with the long dry season: June to August, and short dry season: December to February.

When is the best time to visit Rwanda?

The best time to visit Rwanda- gorilla trekking & wild safari is during the dry seasons of June to August and from December to February when the ground is also dry making hiking is easy and the roads being maneuverable by vehicles making it good for visitors to access all various parts of different game parks in the country.

Reasons to visit Rwanda;

Gorilla trekking
Golden monkey tracking
Chimpanzee trekking
Rwanda is one of Africa’s top luxury destinations.
Rwanda is renown for its safety & security record.
Is the cleanest country in Africa and plastic free zone.
One of the top technological hubs in Africa.
One of the most beautiful countries with unique sceneries.
Rwanda has a diverse history and memories with monuments worth visiting like the Kigali genocide memorial grounds.
Enjoy the best modern luxury lodges & accommodation.
The beauty of Kigali city, culture, traditional arts and crafts shops.

Rwanda's location, map & facts

Rwanda is a landlocked nation located in the African Great Lakes region of Central/Eastern Africa and covers an area of 26,338 sq. km at the co-ordinates 2°00′S 30°0′E. Surrounded on all sides by its neighbors, Rwanda shares a border with the four nations of Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rwanda has quite a diverse geological character. Sharp flowing mountain ranges that grant it the name land of a thousand hills, rushing rivers, shallow flood plains, and enormous lakes can all be found here.

Mountains dominate the landscape of western Rwanda. The mountains found in the west are a part of the Albertine Rift range that runs from north to south. The Virunga Mountains to the northwest of the country host the highest peak of Rwanda, Mount Karisimbi (marked on the physical map above) which is 4,507 m tall.

How to book flights for an African safari;

There are direct flights from various parts of the world, flights to Rwanda from all over the world through Kigali international airport. The country has a national airlines/ carrier i.e. Rwanda air, that has direct flights to Europe and Asia. By road, Rwanda is accessible through its neighboring countries, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and DR. Congo with a well build road network.

Rwanda has an excellent phone and internet network covering almost the entire country and international calls can be made easily. The country is among the top 3 African countries in terms of internet connectivity, with an ever growing fiber optic network.

Manage, plan and book your safari flights by clicking on any airlines of your choice

Inquire about time efficient and fast airline booking tips from travel experts.