Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife experiences, particularly with its mountain gorillas. Here’s an overview of the top safari parks in Rwanda, the best times to visit, and what makes each park special:
Top National Parks in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
- Highlights:
- Home to over a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
- Stunning volcanic landscapes, including five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains.
- Golden monkey tracking and cultural experiences with local communities.
- Best Time to Visit:
- June to September and December to February: Dry seasons for the best gorilla trekking conditions.
Akagera National Park
- Highlights:
- Rwanda’s only savannah park, offering classic African safari experiences.
- Big Five game animals (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos).
- Diverse habitats include savannah, wetlands, and lakes.
- Best Time to Visit:
- June to September: Dry season for the best wildlife viewing.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Highlights:
- One of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests.
- Home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees and the Ruwenzori colobus monkeys.
- Canopy walkway, waterfall hikes, and birdwatching with over 300 bird species.
- Best Time to Visit:
- June to September and December to February: Dry seasons for hiking and primate tracking.
General Tips for Rwanda Safaris
Choosing the Right Time:
- The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are generally the best for wildlife viewing and trekking.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits:
- Permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking should be booked well in advance due to high demand and limited availability.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury Lodges and Camps: Provide comfort and amenities, often with excellent locations for wildlife viewing.
- Mid-Range Lodges and Camps: Offer a balance of comfort and affordability.
- Budget Campsites and Lodges: Provide basic amenities and a more rustic experience.
Health and Safety:
- Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and take malaria prophylaxis.
- Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
Packing Essentials:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing.
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots.
- Binoculars and a good camera for wildlife photography.
Sample Itinerary for a Rwandan Safari
Day 1: Arrive in Kigali
- Arrive and transfer to your hotel.
- Explore Kigali, and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Overnight in Kigali.
Day 2-3: Volcanoes National Park
- Transfer to Volcanoes National Park.
- Gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking.
- Overnight at a lodge near the park.
Day 4-5: Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- Chimpanzee trekking, canopy walkway, and waterfall hikes.
- Overnight at a lodge near the park.
Day 6-7: Akagera National Park
- Transfer to Akagera National Park.
- Game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and birdwatching.
- Overnight at a lodge within the park.
Day 8: Return to Kigali
- Transfer back to Kigali for departure.
Accommodation Recommendations
Kigali:
- Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel, The Retreat by Heaven.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Des Mille Collines, Heaven Boutique Hotel.
- Budget: Discover Rwanda Youth Hostel, Yambi Guesthouse.
Volcanoes National Park:
- Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
- Mid-Range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
- Budget: Kinigi Guest House, Muhabura Hotel.
Nyungwe Forest National Park:
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House.
- Mid-Range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort.
- Budget: Gisakura Guest House.
Akagera National Park:
- Luxury: Magashi Camp.
- Mid-Range: Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge.
- Budget: Karenge Bush Camp.
Rwanda offers a unique and enriching safari experience, from tracking gorillas in the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park to exploring the savannahs of Akagera. The combination of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences makes Rwanda a top destination for an unforgettable safari adventure.