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African Safaris and Tours
Rwanda Travel Guide
Rwanda: Mountain Gorillas, Rainforest Primates and a Big Five Savannah in the Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda packs an astonishing amount into a small, steeply hilly country. In the north-west, the Virunga volcanoes rise above bamboo and cloud forest; in the south-west, the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe spills down mist-filled valleys; along the western border runs the long, island-studded shoreline of Lake Kivu; and in the east, Akagera's savannah opens out into flat-topped acacias, lakes and papyrus swamp.
For most travellers, the reason to come is mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park: a hike up the forested slopes with a ranger, then an hour in the company of a habituated gorilla family. It is quiet, muddy, humbling and, for many of our guests, the moment that defines the whole trip. The same park offers golden monkey trekking, a livelier, lighter-footed counterpart to the gorillas. See our Rwanda safaris for how we build trips around both.
Nyungwe National Park adds chimpanzee trekking, outstanding forest birding and a canopy walkway strung high above the trees. Akagera, managed by African Parks with the Rwanda Development Board, is the country's only savannah park and a genuine Big Five destination, now home to both black and white rhino alongside lion, elephant, leopard and buffalo.
Kigali deserves more than an airport night. The capital is clean, green and easy to explore, with a lively café and craft scene, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial gives a sobering, essential context for everything you will see of modern Rwanda.
Highlights of a Rwanda safari include:
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking and the canopy walkway in Nyungwe National Park
- Forest birding in Nyungwe National Park
- Big Five game drives in Akagera National Park
- Time on the shores of Lake Kivu
- Cultural tours and community visits
- The Kigali Genocide Memorial
Browse our Rwanda lodges to find the right base in each area, and talk to us about shaping the route around your pace and interests. We have been arranging tailor-made African safaris since 1999.
Rwanda is a malaria area, so read our guide to malaria in Africa and see a travel clinic well before you go.
Rwanda Safaris, Lodges and Travel Planning
Rwanda Lodges
From gorilla lodges below the Virunga volcanoes to tented camps in Akagera, rainforest lodges at Nyungwe, lakeside stays on Lake Kivu and city hotels in Kigali, our Rwanda lodges are chosen to fit a tailor-made safari. Browse by area to find the right base for gorillas, primates, game drives or a few days' rest.
Rwanda Safaris
Tailor-made Rwanda safaris built around mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, with golden monkeys, Nyungwe's chimpanzees and Big Five game drives in Akagera added to suit you. Add time on Lake Kivu or in Kigali, and we will shape the route, pace and lodges around how you like to travel.
Rwanda Safari Planner
Tell us how you would like to see Rwanda – gorillas, primates, Akagera's savannah, Lake Kivu or all of it – and we will build a tailor-made safari around your dates, pace and budget. We have been arranging African safaris since 1999, and we handle the lodges, guiding and transfers so you can concentrate on the trip.
Rwanda Lodges Visited
Our firsthand reviews of the Rwanda lodges we have stayed at in the Volcanoes area, each with our own photographs and frank opinions on the rooms, the food, the service and the practical details that matter on a gorilla trekking trip.
Rwanda Map
See where Rwanda's lodges, national parks and highlights sit in relation to each other, from Volcanoes National Park in the north-west to Nyungwe in the south-west, Lake Kivu on the western border and Akagera in the east. It is the quickest way to picture how a safari route fits together.
Rwanda Travel FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Rwanda?
Yes. Every nationality can get a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and Rwanda's land borders, or apply online through the government's Irembo portal. Citizens of African Union, Commonwealth and La Francophonie countries pay no visa fee for a 30-day visit. The East African Tourist Visa covers tourism in Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda on one multiple-entry visa.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate to enter Rwanda?
Only if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Rwanda's health authorities require a valid certificate from those travellers; anyone arriving without one may be vaccinated on arrival and can face further health measures. Travellers arriving from a non-risk country, such as the UK, need no certificate. Ask your travel clinic about the vaccine.
What currency is used in Rwanda?
Rwanda's currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF). On a safari with us, your lodges are booked and priced as part of your itinerary, so cash on the ground is mostly for tips, craft markets and cafés in Kigali. We will let you know what each lodge accepts for extras on site.
Is Rwanda safe to visit?
Most of Rwanda lies outside any UK FCDO warning area, and every itinerary we plan follows current FCDO travel advice. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the parts of Rusizi District within 10 km of the Democratic Republic of Congo border, including Rwanda's Lake Kivu islands and Kamembe Airport. Border crossings with the DRC can close at short notice.
How does Rwanda compare with Kenya and Tanzania for a safari?
Rwanda is a primate-led safari destination rather than a big-plains one. Its headline is mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, with chimpanzees in Nyungwe and a Big Five savannah safari in Akagera, home to both black and white rhino. Kenya and Tanzania offer far larger savannah parks; Rwanda packs forest, volcanoes and primates into one small country.
Why is Rwanda called the Land of a Thousand Hills?
The nickname describes the landscape: Rwanda is a country of steep hills and ridges, with terraced farmland climbing the slopes from the Virunga volcanoes in the north-west down to the lower, lake-dotted savannah of Akagera in the east. In French it is the Pays des Mille Collines, a name you will still see on a famous Kigali hotel.
Map of Lodges in and around Rwanda
Rwanda Travel Topics
10 Reasons to Visit Volcanoes National Park
Nestled in the heart of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park stands as a beacon for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking an intimate encounter with the raw beauty of East Africa. This park is not just a destination; it's an experience that transcends ordinary travel. From the moment you set foot on its lush terrain, you're propelled into a world where endangered primates roam free, ancient volcanoes tower majestically, and luxury lodges offer sanctuary amidst the wild. Drawing from our extensive experience and passion for African safaris, we've crafted a guide that not only highlights the unique allure of Volcanoes National Park but also provides practical advice for planning your visit. Whether you're intrigued by the prospect of coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas or enchanted by the idea of hiking through verdant volcanic landscapes, our latest post has something for everyone.
Rwanda Travel Bucket List
Rwanda, often referred to as the 'Land of a Thousand Hills', beckons travellers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unparalleled wildlife experiences. This tiny nation, nestled in the heart of Africa, has risen like a phoenix from its tumultuous past, presenting itself today as one of the continent's most enchanting destinations. Our latest blog post aims to be your compass through Rwanda’s rolling hills, dense rainforests, and vibrant cities. From the misty habitats of mountain gorillas to tranquil lake shores teeming with birdlife, we've curated an essential Rwanda Travel Bucket List that promises adventure at every turn.
The Perfect Rwanda Honeymoon Safari
Embarking on a honeymoon is the epitome of romantic bliss, and choosing Rwanda as your haven is akin to stepping into a world where nature's majesty meets unparalleled luxury. The "Land of a Thousand Hills" offers an intimate setting for newlyweds looking to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of Africa. Our latest Rwanda blog post, "The Perfect Rwanda Honeymoon Safari," is your comprehensive guide to crafting an unforgettable journey through this enchanting country. From the moment you set foot in its verdant landscapes, Rwanda promises a blend of adventure and serenity that's perfect for marking the beginning of your life together.
Top 10 Day Trips in Rwanda
Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences, making it a unique destination for travellers seeking adventure and serenity. Located in the heart of Africa, this vibrant country is filled with natural wonders, from tea plantations to rainforests home to the last mountain gorillas. Here, nature and culture come together to offer an unforgettable glimpse into African beauty. Our guide to the Top 10 Day Trips in Rwanda is designed to help you discover the best this enchanting country has to offer. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie eager to trek through Volcanoes National Park or looking for a peaceful retreat by the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, our curated selection promises something for every type of traveller.
10 Best Lodges In Rwanda
Embark on a journey to the heart of Africa with our latest blog, where we reveal Rwanda's top 10 lodges. This isn't just a travel guide; it's your ticket to adventure, wrapped in luxury that even the most seasoned explorers will admire. Our blog doesn't just list these lodges—it takes you through dreamy bedrooms that open to the African bush, gourmet dining under starlit skies, and spa treatments made better by views of elephants in their natural habitat.
Best Rwanda Safari Itinerary
Explore Rwanda with our expertly crafted safari itinerary. Journey from the vibrant streets of Kigali to wildlife in Akagera National Park, the lush Nyungwe Forest, and unforgettable gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or serene moments in nature, this itinerary showcases the best Rwanda has to offer. Prepare for a safari tour filled with incredible wildlife, rich cultural experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Popular Rwanda Destinations
Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is a stunning East African destination with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich culture. From mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda offers unforgettable experiences. Explore Rwanda's top destinations, offering something for every traveller—gorilla trekking, bird watching, or experiencing local culture. Discover why Rwanda is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers.
Things To Do In Kigali
Ready your senses for an artistic adventure at the Inema and Niyo Art Galleries, where the vibrant pulse of Rwandan creativity beats the strongest. These spaces are not just galleries but sanctuaries where art and community intersect, offering a deep dive into the local artistry and craftsmanship. From contemporary pieces that challenge the status quo to traditional crafts that tell tales of Rwanda's heritage, these galleries offer a kaleidoscope of perspectives bound to inspire. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of human expression, these spots are must-visits for a touch of Kigali's creative spirit.