Rwanda is one of the best destinations to explore in the heart of Africa. Located in East Africa, Rwanda is a vibrant destination and is the most visited not only for gorilla trekking but also for Big 5 game viewing. Rwanda is a landlocked country and is bordered by Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Burundi. It is blessed with natural wonders offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore Africa’s unique attractions.
While in Rwanda, tourists have a lot to explore, from the breathtaking landscapes to the diverse ecosystems, and favourable weather conditions. Its breathtaking landscapes are characterised by extensive rolling hills. Rwanda is also known for its unique culture and history that have shaped it into a destination that is admirable to date. To those who love nightlife, Kigali is a place not to miss to start your holiday in Rwanda.
Where to Visit in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Located in Musanze, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s best destination and attractions majority of tourists who come to explore its rare mountain gorillas. Expanding over 160 sq. km and comprising largely of bamboo plus rainforest/montane forest, Volcanoes National Park is where you can embark on a guided mountain gorilla trek.
Volcanoes National Park currently contains up to 13 habituated gorilla groups worth visiting during gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Beyond gorillas, Volcanoes National Park offers thrilling golden monkey tracking, Dian Fossey tomb site trek, bird-watching, and more.
During your tour in Volcanoes National Park, expect to explore different wildlife/mammals beyond golden monkeys and gorillas. This park is also inhabited by duikers, hyenas, forest elephants, bush pigs, buffaloes, giant forest hogs, and about 200 species of birds. The birds to spot during a guided birding tour in Volcanoes National Park comprise the Albertine Rift endemic species. The birds that survive in this park include, among others, the Grauer’s rush warblers, handsome francolins, Rwenzori turacos, collared apalis, and Rwenzori double-collared sunbirds.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforest-dominated parks, and is located in the Southern Province of Rwanda about 7-8 hours’ drive from Kigali. Nyungwe is the second biggest park in Rwanda, covering up to 970 sq. km and holds a range of wildlife and birdlife that are of interest to nature lovers’ interest. Over 13 species of primate reside in the lush Nyungwe Forest, and the primates include over 500 chimpanzees, owl-faced monkeys, l’hoest monkeys, and more.
Checklist of birds in Nyungwe includes, among others, the regal sunbirds, red-collared babblers, Kivu ground thrush, red-faced woodland warblers, Grauer’s warblers, barred long-tailed cuckoos, bar-tailed trogons, grey-parrots, and Congo-bay owlets. The major safaris of any Nyungwe National Park tour include chimpanzee tracking, canopy walk, nature walks and birding.
Akagera National Park –Encounter the Big 5 (Five) & More!
Akagera is such an appealing destination that guarantees you captivating encounters in the savannas, wooded grasslands, and wetlands. Diverse species of animals reside in the scenic Akagera National Park. While on Rwanda safaris, expect to explore Akagera’s Big 5 game (leopards, elephants, rhinos, lions, and giraffes). This park also supports animals such as hippos, zebras, giraffes, and antelope families. Akagera National Park offers mainly guided game drives, boat cruises, helicopter excursions, bird watching, and nature walks.
Gishwati Mukura National Park –Best for Chimpanzee Encounters
Located in the Northern part of Rwanda, Gishwati-Mukura National Park promises unique jungle experiences. This is a newly established park and holds a diversity of animals such as l’hoest monkeys, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, golden monkeys, baboons, and more.
Gishwati-Mukura also holds a total of 230 species of birds and includes blue-headed sunbirds, Rwenzori batis, and crowned eagles. This park also supports birds like Stuhlmann’s starling, mountain buzzards, stripe-breasted tits, martial eagles, purple-breasted sunbirds, red-throated alethe, hooded vultures, and paradise flycatchers.
Kigali –Vibrant City with Cleanest Streets
Kigali currently tops the list as the cleanest and safest city. It is notably one of the friendliest cities or towns in Africa. It is in Kigali where most Rwanda safaris begin and end, with multiple opportunities available for you to appreciate. Key areas of interest in Kigali include the Kigali genocide memorial, Kimironko market, Kigali convention centre, and many historical/cultural centres. Kigali is currently one of the best places to visit for MICE thanks to its outstanding facilities like Kigali Convention Centre.
Lake Kivu –A scenic Water body.
Lake Kivu is set in the heart of the Albertine Rift and is home to some interesting birds. This scenic lake offers amazing experiences, including swimming, kayaking, sunset cruises, and more.
What should you expect to do in Rwanda?
Sensational experiences that await you on a safari in Rwanda include golden monkey tracking, boat cruises, game drives, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, canopy walks, and hot air balloon safaris.
Best time to visit Rwanda (Based on the Travel Calendar)
Rwanda is available for exploration all year-round. But safari activities like gorilla trekking or chimpanzee tracking are best enjoyed during the peak dry season/high season. According to the Rwandan travel calendar, the peak months or seasons extend from June to September, and the other special phase begins from December to February. The off-peak months are often great for birders or budget visitors, that is, from March to May or October to November.
Is Rwanda safe to visit today?
Yes, Rwanda is safe to visit in 2026. Consider Rwanda your a must-visit destination in the heart of Africa for you to experience a range of primate adventures, including golden monkey tracking, chimpanzee tracking, and gorilla trekking. Rwanda is also a great place to visit for MICE events.
Getting around Rwanda
To safely navigate around Rwanda, you should consider renting a car. At Rivo Safaris, we recommend hiring a 4×4 rental car that fits all rugged travel experiences. Contact our team to secure for you the right safari car to enable you explore the wonders of Rwanda safely.
Packing for 2026 Rwanda safaris
Regardless of the activity, packing right is key to your Rwanda safari. On the checklist of what to pack, consider carrying insect repellents, waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, a camera, a first aid kit, toiletries, and a safari hat.