Here are our Recommendations about Rwanda where to go on safaris.
Rwanda’s Travel Regions: Envisioning Your Itinerary
Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is geographically compact. Allowing for a single, seamless itinerary that connects its major ecological and cultural hubs within a short period. The country is easily segmented into four distinct travel regions. Each offering a unique set of essential and niche experiences.
1. Northern Rwanda: The Virunga Volcanoes (Musanze)
This region hosts Rwanda’s most iconic and essential experience. Centered around the magnificent volcanic chain, the North is the country’s premium eco-tourism hub.
| See & Do (Popular) | See & Do (Niche & Challenge) |
| Mountain Gorilla Trekking: The world-renowned, high-value experience in Volcanoes National Park (VNP). Permits are secured early. | Volcano Hiking: Summit Mount Bisoke (1-day trek to a crater lake) or the arduous, two-day challenge up Mount Karisimbi. |
| Golden Monkey Trekking: An easier, highly engaging trek to see the habituated, endemic golden monkeys in the bamboo forest. | Dian Fossey Hike: A reflective trek to the Karisoke Research Camp ruins and the grave of the famous primatologist. |
| Gorilla Guardians Village: A community-based showcase for Rwandan cultural traditions, dances, and history. | Twin Lakes & Musanze Caves: Enjoy a scenic boat trip on the deep blue Twin Lakes Burera and Ruhondo. Or explore the historic Musanze Caves. |
Itinerary Insight: The essential first stop after Kigali. Dedicate 2-3 nights here to complete the Gorilla Trek. A Golden Monkey trek, and one cultural or hiking experience. The region is defined by its dramatic, high-altitude landscape.
2. Southern Rwanda: The Ancient Rainforest and Culture
The South is a biodiversity hotspot. Defined by the incredibly vast and ancient Nyungwe National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). This region is a paradise for adventurers, primatologists, and serious birders.
| See & Do (Popular) | See & Do (Niche & Adventure) |
| Chimpanzee Trekking: Track one of the semi-habituated troops of Eastern Chimpanzees in the dense forest. | Ziplining & Canopy Walkway: Experience one of Africa’s longest ziplines or walk the exhilarating 160-meter-long suspension bridge. Experience unique views 70 m above the forest floor. |
| Ethnographic Museum (Huye): A crucial visit to one of East Africa’s finest collections. Which provides a comprehensive dive into Rwandan history and culture. | Colobus Monkey Tracking: Track large, spectacular troops of the endemic Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys. Often seen in groups of 400+. |
| Hiking Trails: Access the park’s network of well-maintained hiking trails, ranging from short walks to challenging day treks. | King’s Palace (Nyanza): Visit the reconstruction of the traditional beehive-shaped royal dwelling and the residence of the former kings. |
Itinerary Insight: A vital cultural and active segment. Located 4-5 hours from Kigali, Nyungwe requires 2 nights to experience a Chimp Trek and the Canopy Walk, followed by a cultural stop in Huye or Nyanza en route to the West or back to the capital.
3. Western Rwanda: Lake Kivu and the Congo Nile Trail
Stretching along the Congo border, Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s idyllic resort destination. Here you could expect tranquility and a refreshing break from trekking. The freshwater lake is clean and safe-free of hippos and crocodiles.
| See & Do (Popular) | See & Do (Active & Unique) |
| Lakeside Relaxation: Enjoy the red, sandy beaches and resort life in the main towns of Rubavu (Gisenyi) and Karongi (Kibuye). | Congo Nile Trail: Hike or bike sections of this scenic 227 km trail, traversing picturesque hillsides and vast coffee/tea plantations along the shoreline. |
| Boat Cruises & Island Hopping: Take a sunset cruise or visit islands like Napoleon Island (famous for fruit bats) and Amahoro Island. | Night Fishing Experience: Join the traditional local fishermen on the lake. Experience their unique nighttime fishing ritual using elegant, lantern-lit boats to attract sambaza. |
| Coffee/Tea Plantation Tours: Visit a local farm to learn about Rwanda’s critical cash crops, from bean/leaf to a fresh cup. | Kayaking & Water Sports: The calm waters are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. |
Itinerary Insight: Positioned perfectly between the primate parks, this region offers a mid-trip reset. Dedicate 1-2 nights in Rubavu or Karongi to enjoy a boat trip. Undertake some easy lakeside activity before heading to the savannah in the East or back to Kigali.
4. Eastern Rwanda: The Big Game Savannah (Akagera)
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah ecosystem and its classic “Big Five” destination. Located near the Tanzanian border, it is a low-lying area of open plains. With rolling hills, and marsh-fringed lakes, offering a complete safari contrast.
| See & Do (Popular) | See & Do (Niche & Immersive) |
| Classic Game Drives (Day & Night): Search for the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo), plus Giraffe and large herds of plains game. | Walk the Line: A guided 7km walk with a park ranger along the perimeter fence, ending with spectacular ridge views. |
| Boat Safari on Lake Ihema: A scheduled trip providing up-close views of large concentrations of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles, plus spectacular birdlife. | Community Cultural Experiences: Visit a local dairy farm to learn about the cultural importance of cattle and milk traditions in Eastern Rwanda. |
| Bird Watching: The park is home to over 500 species, with a focus on water birds and the chance to spot the rare Shoebill Stork. | “Behind The Scenes” Tour: A guided educational tour of park headquarters focused on conservation management and anti-poaching efforts. |
Itinerary Insight: Easily accessible (about 2 hours) from Kigali, Akagera is ideal for a 2-night safari add-on. Its conservation success makes it a vital part of the itinerary, completing the transition from primates to plains game before the final return to the capital.
Central Hub: Kigali and the Capital Gateway
Kigali is not just an entry point; it is the essential logistical anchor and a cultural destination in its own right. The capital is renowned for its cleanliness, safety, and modern development.
| See & Do (Essential Stop) | See & Do (Urban Experience / Culture) |
| Kigali Genocide Memorial: A crucial, deeply moving, and necessary educational experience to understand the country’s past and extraordinary journey toward reconciliation. | Inema Arts Center: Visit this thriving gallery showcasing contemporary African art, often hosting popular cultural events and workshops. |
| Logistics Hub: The central point for all transfers, accommodation (pre/post-safari), and international departure/arrival via Kigali International Airport (KGL). | Nyamirambo Women’s Centre: Join a local walking tour of the Muslim Quarter, learning about local cuisine and daily life. |
Itinerary Insight: Start and end your journey here. Dedicate 1 night upon arrival for the Genocide Memorial and necessary rest, and a final night before departure for local shopping, dining, and final transfers.
