Best Rwanda Safari Activities
Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a destination where wildlife, culture, and natural beauty converge to create a safari experience unlike any other in Africa. Though small in size, Rwanda offers an extraordinary variety of adventures — from trekking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to exploring savannahs filled with lions and elephants, and relaxing along the serene shores of Lake Kivu. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the best Rwanda safari activities promise moments of wonder, discovery, and connection with nature.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The crown jewel of Rwanda’s safari experiences is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This is one of the world’s most intimate wildlife encounters — standing just meters away from a family of mountain gorillas as they feed, groom, and play among the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains.
The trek begins at dawn, guided by experienced rangers through dense vegetation and misty slopes. Once you find the gorilla family, you’re allowed one unforgettable hour in their company. Every trek is different, and every moment feels sacred.
With 12 habituated gorilla families and limited daily permits, the experience is exclusive and deeply moving — a true bucket-list adventure.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
For those drawn to primates, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is another must-do experience. Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to over 500 chimpanzees and a stunning array of plant and animal life.
Trekking begins early in the morning as guides lead you through the lush forest in search of the chimps, whose loud calls can often be heard echoing through the trees. Watching these intelligent and energetic creatures swing through the canopy or interact on the ground is both thrilling and heartwarming.
In addition to chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to 13 other primate species, including colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys, making it one of the continent’s top destinations for primate enthusiasts.
Classic Game Drives in Akagera National Park
For travelers who crave the classic African safari experience, Akagera National Park delivers perfectly. Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is a stunning mix of rolling hills, open savannah, and shimmering lakes. It’s Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five — lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.
Morning and evening game drives offer spectacular wildlife sightings, while night drives reveal nocturnal creatures such as hyenas, civets, and leopards on the hunt. Boat safaris along Lake Ihema add a serene touch, where hippos grunt in the water and crocodiles bask on the shores. Akagera’s recovery story, from near devastation to a thriving conservation success, makes every visit even more meaningful.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
For a completely different perspective of the rainforest, don’t miss the Canopy Walkway in Nyungwe. Suspended 70 meters above the forest floor and stretching 160 meters across, the walkway offers breathtaking panoramic views of the treetops, mountains, and valleys.
As you walk among the clouds, you may spot colorful birds, butterflies, and even monkeys playing in the branches below. The experience blends gentle adventure with sheer natural beauty and is perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Cultural Experiences and Community Tours
Rwanda’s culture is rich, resilient, and deeply intertwined with nature. Throughout the country, visitors can take part in authentic cultural experiences that reveal the soul of Rwandan life.
In the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park, travelers can meet local communities, watch traditional dances, learn to make crafts, or participate in cooking and farming activities. It’s an opportunity to understand Rwanda’s transformation and the harmonious relationship between people and conservation.
In Butare (Huye), you can visit the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda, one of Africa’s finest cultural institutions, which showcases the country’s history, art, and traditions.
Hiking the Volcanoes of the Virunga Range
For adventure lovers, the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains offer some of the most rewarding hikes in East Africa. Trek to the summit of Mount Bisoke (3,711m) for its crater lake views, or challenge yourself with a climb up Mount Karisimbi (4,507m) — the highest peak in Rwanda.
The hikes pass through lush forests filled with gorillas, golden monkeys, and exotic bird species, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding volcanoes and valleys. Shorter nature walks around Volcanoes National Park also provide excellent opportunities to enjoy the landscapes and spot smaller wildlife.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Golden monkeys are among the most charming primates you can encounter in Rwanda. Endemic to the Virunga range, they are known for their bright golden-orange fur and playful behavior. Tracking them in Volcanoes National Park is a lighter, easier alternative to gorilla trekking and ideal for families or those looking for a shorter primate experience.
The trek takes about 2–3 hours, and once you locate the troop, you can watch them leap energetically through the bamboo forest — a truly delightful sight.
Lake Kivu Adventures
After the intensity of trekking and game drives, Lake Kivu offers peaceful relaxation. This vast freshwater lake, shared between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is fringed by pretty towns like Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic boat rides between the lake’s islands. The sunsets here are breathtaking, and the laid-back vibe makes Lake Kivu the perfect ending to any Rwandan safari itinerary.
Birdwatching in Rwanda’s Wetlands and Forests
Rwanda is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 700 recorded bird species. Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s top birding spots, home to Albertine Rift endemics such as the Ruwenzori turaco, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and handsome francolin. Akagera’s wetlands and lakes are perfect for spotting fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons. Even Kigali and the surrounding hills offer rewarding birdwatching opportunities for casual nature lovers.
A Safari Beyond Wildlife
Rwanda’s safaris go beyond the traditional. They’re journeys of transformation — where travelers not only encounter incredible wildlife but also witness a nation’s resilience and renewal. From the emotional depth of gorilla trekking to the serene beauty of Lake Kivu and the thrill of Akagera’s game drives, Rwanda offers a complete safari experience wrapped in warmth, hospitality, and hope.
Every activity tells a story — of people, conservation, and a land reborn from the heart of Africa.
