Rwanda: A Land of Rolling Hills, Rich Wildlife, and Remarkable Resilience

Rwanda is a breathtakingly beautiful country, defined by its lush landscapes, mountainous terrain, and warm, welcoming people. Despite its tragic history, the nation has undergone an extraordinary transformation, emerging as a leader in sustainable development, conservation, and ecotourism. The endangered mountain gorilla, along with other primates, is now carefully protected, with populations slowly increasing thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.

map of rwanda

Exploring Rwanda’s Regions

Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, is a city of remarkable cleanliness, safety, and energy. If your journey includes an overnight stay here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its bustling markets, contemporary art hubs, and historical landmarks.

A short 80-kilometer drive northwest from Kigali leads to Volcanoes National Park, home to the famed mountain gorillas. Trekking through dense rainforest to observe these gentle giants up close is an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. The park also shelters golden monkeys, a variety of bird species, and breathtaking forested landscapes.

A visit to the park is often enriched by learning about Dian Fossey, the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to gorilla conservation. A guided hike to her resting place provides insight into her groundbreaking work and the ongoing efforts to protect these incredible creatures.

Heading south, the journey takes you to Lake Kivu, a serene retreat with calm waters and sandy beaches framed by rolling hills. This picturesque setting is ideal for relaxation, offering stunning lake views and an opportunity to unwind.

Further south lies Nyungwe Forest National Park, a pristine expanse of montane rainforest. This ecological gem is home to vibrant flora, including over 100 species of orchids, as well as rich birdlife. Primates such as chimpanzees and colobus monkeys also thrive here, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

On the eastern border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park stands as a testament to Rwanda’s conservation success. Once heavily impacted by poaching and habitat destruction, the park has been revitalized through joint efforts between the Rwandan government and conservation organizations. Today, it offers a unique safari experience in its diverse landscapes of savannahs, wetlands, and woodlands, with thriving populations of wildlife.

Rwanda’s blend of natural wonders, conservation success stories, and cultural richness make it a destination like no other. Whether trekking through misty forests, relaxing by a tranquil lake, or exploring its thriving national parks, every journey here is one of discovery and inspiration.

Rwanda Safari Seasons

Regular
Jan
Regular
Feb
Regular
March
Green
April
Green
May
Peak
June
Peak
Jul
Peak
Aug
Peak
Sep
October
Oct
Green
Nov
Peak
Dec


Regular

The "regular" or "dry" safari season in East Africa generally offers optimal game viewing due to reduced rainfall and vegetation, making it easier to spot wildlife. These months offer a balance between lower prices, fewer tourists, and decent game viewing.

Peak

Animals are concentrated around water, vegetation is low and sparse, and predators are circling. But at this time of year, the famous wildebeest migration is in Tanzania’s Serengeti, moving southwards following the end of year rains. Witness the Serengeti dramatic birthing season: it’s one of the best times to watch predator/prey interaction.

Green

It’s green because it’s wet. This is the time of the ‘Long Rains’ and some of the more remote and wild reserves in East Africa are worth avoiding; accommodations may be closed anyway. Gorilla trekking becomes more difficult, and in Kenya and Tanzania’s reserves, wildlife tends to disperse across wider areas, making animals more difficult to see.

Popular Experiences

Luxury Safaris Rooted in Conservation

Curated trips promoting responsible wildlife interactions, and encouraging low-impact travel methods

12 Days Women of the Wild Expedition
Kenya, Rwanda

12 Days Women of the Wild Expedition

Nairobi, Samburu, Maasai Mara, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Kigali, Depart 12 Days, 11 Nights | Price From: $0.00

13 Days Romantic Elopement & Beach Retreat
Kenya, Zanzibar

13 Days Romantic Elopement & Beach Retreat

Nairobi, Samburu, Maasai Mara, Zanzibar, Depart 13 Days, 12 Nights | Price From: $0.00

10 Days Safari, Sun and Sand
Kenya

10 Days Safari, Sun and Sand

Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Diani Beach, Depart 10 Days, 9 Nights | Price From: $0.00

10 Days Go Wild Adventure Safari – Best of Uganda
Uganda

10 Days Go Wild Adventure Safari – Best of Uganda

Entebbe, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi, Depart 10 Days, 9 Nights | Price From: $0.00

10 Days Wilderness Adventure
Kenya

10 Days Wilderness Adventure

Nairobi, Meru, Samburu, Mara, Depart 10 Days, 9 Nights | Price From: $0.00

11 Days Honeymoon Safari
Kenya, Zanzibar

11 Days Honeymoon Safari

Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Zanzibar, Depart 11 Days, 10 Nights | Price From: $0.00

11 Days Tanzania and Zanzibar in Style
Tanzania, Zanzibar

11 Days Tanzania and Zanzibar in Style

Arusha, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Zanzibar, Depart 11 Days, 10 Nights | Price From: $0.00

4 Days Gateway to Rwanda
Rwanda

4 Days Gateway to Rwanda

Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Kigali, Depart 4 Days, 3 Nights | Price From: $0.00

6 Days Call of the Primates Trek Adventure
Uganda

6 Days Call of the Primates Trek Adventure

Entebbe, Kibale National Park, Bwindi National Park, Entebbe, Depart 6 Days, 5 Nights | Price From: $0.00

6 Days Walking Safari
Kenya

6 Days Walking Safari

Nairobi, Laikipia Wilderness, Nairobi, Depart 6 Days, 5 Nights | Price From: $0.00