Rwanda Safari Prices – How Much Does a Safari in Rwanda Cost?

Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, is one of Africa’s most breathtaking safari destinations. Known for its misty volcanoes, mountain gorillas, and pristine national parks, Rwanda combines world-class wildlife experiences with luxurious comfort and responsible tourism. But how much does it cost to go on safari in Rwanda?

The price of a safari in Rwanda depends on the type of experience, level of accommodation, and activities you choose. Whether you dream of trekking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, tracking chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest, or exploring the savannahs of Akagera, Rwanda offers safaris for every style — from budget adventurers to high-end travelers.

Below is a detailed guide to Rwanda safari prices in 2025, covering gorilla permits, park fees, accommodation, and sample safari packages.

1. Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices

Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s flagship experience — a life-changing encounter that brings you face to face with the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas.

As of 2025, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) sets the price for gorilla trekking permits as follows:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,500 per person per trek

• Foreign Residents: USD 500 per person per trek

• East African Citizens: USD 200 per person per trek

Each permit grants you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Volcanoes National Park, accompanied by expert trackers and rangers.

Rwanda also offers discounted permit packages for certain categories:

• Conference Delegates: 30% discount if visiting other national parks.

• Long-Stay Visitors: Discounts available when combining multiple activities (e.g., Akagera + Nyungwe + Volcanoes).

While Rwanda’s permit price is higher than Uganda’s (USD 800), the experience is more exclusive — with small trekking groups, exceptional service, and world-class lodges nearby.

2. Chimpanzee & Primate Trekking Prices

Rwanda is not just about gorillas. The lush rainforests of Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park are home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and countless bird species.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permit Prices (Nyungwe or Gishwati):

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 150 per person

• Foreign Residents: USD 100 per person

• East African Citizens: USD 25 per person

Canopy Walk (Nyungwe Forest): USD 60 per person
This thrilling activity lets you walk 50 meters above the forest floor on Africa’s longest suspended canopy walkway.

3. Wildlife Safari Prices in Akagera National Park

For travelers craving classic savannah safaris, Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda offers Big Five encounters — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos — all set against a backdrop of rolling hills, lakes, and acacia woodlands.

Park Entry Fees (per day):

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 100 per person

• Foreign Residents: USD 50 per person

• East African Citizens: USD 10 per person

Vehicle Fees: USD 10–40 per car, depending on size.
Game Drives: USD 40–50 per person with a park guide.

Private guided safaris with professional operators typically cost between USD 300–600 per person per day, including vehicle, driver, fuel, and park fees.

4. Accommodation Prices in Rwanda’s Safari Parks

Rwanda is known for its beautifully designed lodges that blend luxury with eco-consciousness. Accommodation prices vary depending on comfort level and proximity to the parks.

Luxury Lodges (USD 800–2,000+ per night):

• Bisate Lodge (Volcanoes National Park)

• One&Only Gorilla’s Nest (Kinigi)

• Magashi Camp (Akagera)

• Nyungwe House by One&Only

These properties offer five-star service, gourmet dining, private guides, and breathtaking settings.

Mid-Range Lodges (USD 250–500 per night):

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (Volcanoes NP)

• Ruzizi Tented Lodge (Akagera NP)

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Budget Lodges (USD 100–200 per night):

• La Palme Hotel, Gorilla Volcanoes Hotel, and Kinigi Guesthouse (Volcanoes NP area)

• Akagera Game Lodge (Akagera NP)

5. Sample Rwanda Safari Packages (2025)

3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari (Volcanoes National Park)

Price Range: USD 2,000–4,000 per person
Includes: Gorilla permit, transport from Kigali, meals, accommodation (mid-range or luxury), and guide services.

5-Day Rwanda Primates & Canopy Adventure (Nyungwe & Volcanoes)

Price Range: USD 2,800–4,800 per person
Includes: Gorilla and chimp permits, park fees, transport, accommodation, meals, and professional guide.

7-Day Rwanda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari (Akagera, Nyungwe, Volcanoes)

Price Range: USD 4,500–8,500 per person
Includes: Big Five game drives, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, luxury accommodation, meals, and transfers.

Luxury Fly-In Safaris (One&Only, Bisate, Magashi)

Price Range: USD 9,000–15,000+ per person (6–8 days)
Designed for discerning travelers, these exclusive safaris include scenic charter flights, private guides, and ultra-luxury stays across Rwanda’s top lodges.

6. Additional Safari Costs

Visa: USD 50 (single entry)
Driver/Guide Tips: USD 10–20 per day
Porters (for gorilla trek): USD 15–25 per trek
Souvenirs and Cultural Tours: USD 20–100 depending on activity

7. Best Time to Visit Rwanda for Safaris

Rwanda’s safaris are available year-round, but the best times are during the dry seasons:

• June to September

• December to February

These months offer comfortable trekking conditions and excellent wildlife viewing. The wet seasons (March–May, October–November) make the scenery greener and less crowded, ideal for photographers.

8. Why Rwanda Safaris Are Worth the Price

While Rwanda’s safari prices are higher than in neighboring countries, the experience is truly world-class. The country’s tourism model emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring personalized service, well-maintained parks, and strong conservation outcomes.

Gorilla tourism in particular has transformed Rwanda into a leader in sustainable travel — with much of the revenue directly supporting community development and wildlife protection.

From luxurious lodges to life-changing encounters in the misty mountains, every dollar spent contributes to preserving one of the world’s rarest ecosystems.

Experience Rwanda – Luxury, Wilderness, and Purpose

A safari in Rwanda is more than just a holiday — it’s a journey into nature’s heart, guided by respect, harmony, and renewal. Whether you’re tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, cruising through Akagera’s wetlands, or walking under Nyungwe’s forest canopy, Rwanda offers a safari experience that is as meaningful as it is magnificent.