Our Top Picks: Rwanda Safari Tours

Discover the ultimate East African safari destination in Rwanda, where majestic mountain gorillas, rare primates, and traditional Big Five game viewing beckons. Rwanda's diverse landscapes, spanning savannah, wetlands, and rainforests, offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. We will guide you through the best of Rwanda’s safari offerings, from gorilla trekking Rwanda tours and wildlife viewing to adventure travel and luxurious places to stay.

 

1. Affordable Rwanda Gorilla Trek

Duration: 4 Days | Destinations: 2

The Retreat in Kigali, Rwanda | Go2Africa
Escape into Kigali at The Retreat.

Go on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla safari adventure in Rwanda, where a mere four days can yield an unforgettable experience. Following a brief overnight stay in Kigali and a scenic three-hour drive, arrive at your luxurious lodge, poised on the cusp of an extraordinary encounter. The Volcanoes National Park, home to the world's endangered mountain gorillas, provides a majestic backdrop for this thrilling adventure.

Under the expert guidance of a seasoned guide, witness the intimate dynamics of gorilla family life, observing from a respectful distance. Your carefully curated itinerary includes a tranquil and luxurious stay, courtesy of Rwanda's renowned warm hospitality.

Highlights:

• Track majestic mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park
• Encounter rare golden monkeys and a kaleidoscope of forest birdlife
• Unwind in luxurious, showcasing Rwanda's signature hospitality

Ideal for:

• Time-conscious travellers
• Beginner or seasoned safari enthusiasts
• Nature lovers and photographers

2. Rwanda Gorilla Encounter

Duration: 5 Days | Destinations: 2

Bisate Lodge, Rwanda | Go2Africa
The unique design of Bisate Lodge in Rwanda.

Venture deep into Rwanda's emerald jungles on an unforgettable 5-day safari. Trek through the dense rainforest from your luxury base at Wilderness Bisate, following expert guides as they lead you to a habituated gorilla family. Watch as playful youngsters tumble through the undergrowth, mothers gather in quiet companionship, and a towering silverback keeps a protective watch.

Beyond the gorilla encounter, immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Volcanoes National Park, Africa's first protected reserve, once home to legendary primatologist Dian Fossey. Explore the misty slopes where conservation efforts continue to safeguard these remarkable primates and take time to absorb the raw beauty of Rwanda's landscapes.

Highlights:

• Trek to the Diane Fossey Research Camp
• Track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys
• Explore the sacred Buhanga Forest
• Embark on bird watching walks and lake cruises
• Visit vibrant markets and cultural villages

Ideal For:

• Safari newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts
• Adventure travellers

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3. Rwanda's Nyungwe, Lake Kivu & Gorillas

Duration: 7 Days | Destinations: 4

Aerial view of 'The Land of a Thousand Hills' , One & Only Nyungwe House | Go2Africa
Aerial view of ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills’ at the One & Only Nyungwe House.

This is a 7-day journey through Rwanda. Your adventure begins in vibrant Kigali, then winds its way through the misty mountains and lush rainforests of Nyungwe National Park. Here, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the tropical wilderness, with the thrilling prospect of chimpanzee tracking and primate viewing in their natural habitat.

As you explore Rwanda's stunning landscapes, unwind in luxury at the One & Only Nyungwe House, with the forest as your backdrop. Visit Lake Kivu, where palm-lined beaches, warm waters, and traditional night fishing await. Finally, venture into the spectacular Volcanoes National Park for the ultimate Rwanda gorilla safari experience, trekking through emerald hills and encountering these majestic creatures up close.

Highlights:

• Chimpanzees and gorillas tracking
• Explore the lush rainforests of Nyungwe National Park
• Lake Kivu adventures
• Experience traditional night fishing and local culture
• Enjoy luxury accommodations amidst breathtaking natural beauty

Ideal For:

• Romantic travellers and couples
• Safari enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned explorers
• Photographers

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4. Ultra-Luxury Rwanda Gorilla & Rainforest Experience

Duration: 7 Days | Destinations: 3

Gorilla trekking, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Rwanda | Go2Africa
Gorilla encounters in Volcanoes National Park, at Singita Kwitonda Lodge.

Experience the ultimate seven-day gorilla safari Rwanda adventure, where the finest luxury lodges and unparalleled primate viewing await. Your journey begins at a five-star lodge on the edge of Nyungwe National Park, where expert guides lead you into the heart of the jungle. As dawn breaks, trek through the dense rainforest, surrounded by the calls of exotic birds and the thrill of chimpanzee encounters.

No Rwanda safari is complete without a gorilla trekking expedition in the Volcanoes National Park. Daily hikes into the dense forest offer an immersive, transformative experience, observing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Unwind in unrivaled luxury at the Singita Kwitanda Lodge, with breathtaking 360° views of mountains and volcanoes.

Highlights:

• Track gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats
• Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park's canopy walk
• Enjoy intimate encounters with exotic birds and rare primates
• Relax in secluded, exquisite luxury accommodation

Ideal For:

• Luxury safari enthusiasts
• Photographers and nature lovers
• Couples and honeymooners

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5. Rwanda Gorilla Community & Conservation Safari

Duration: 6 Days | Destinations: 2

Aerial view of Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, Rwanda | Go2Africa
Volcanoes Virunga Lodge in Rwanda.

Join a six-day Rwanda African safari with a purpose, where cultural immersion, conservation, and unforgettable wildlife encounters are all part of the package. Begin in Kigali, drinking in the city's rich history and culture, before venturing into the mystical rainforests of the Virunga Volcanoes. Here, participate in the humbling experience of gorilla trekking, witnessing the gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Enhance your journey with a golden monkey expedition and a visit to the Diane Fossey Gorilla Fund, gaining insight into groundbreaking research and conservation efforts. Your itinerary supports an ecotourism initiative, directly benefiting local communities and promoting positive impact travel.

Highlights:

• Explore Kigali's historical and cultural attractions, including Nyandungu Eco Park and the Genocide Memorial
• Track endangered mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park
• Marvel at breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and volcanic lakes
• Enjoy modern, stylish accommodation
• Optional: golden monkey excursion and Diane Fossey Gorilla Fund visit

Ideal For:

• Travellers seeking positive impact experiences
• History buffs
• First-time and seasoned safari goers

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6. East Africa's Gorilla, Safari & Beach

Duration: 14 Days | Destinations: 4

Front view of gorillas at Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
Trek to see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park when at Wilderness Sabyinyo.

Discover the magic of East Africa on a 14-day safari adventure that combines the thrill of gorilla trekking, the Great Wildebeest Migration, and a relaxing tropical beach experience. Your journey begins with famed Rwanda safari tours in Volcanoes National Park, where expert guides lead you through dense rainforests, accompanied by the enchanting songs of exotic birds and pant-hooting chimpanzees, in search of majestic mountain gorillas.

Next, venture to Tanzania's Serengeti, where you will be treated to intimate luxury at the Namiri Plains mobile tented camp. Witness the ultimate wildlife spectacle – the Great Wildebeest Migration – and enjoy exclusive front-row seats to predator-prey encounters. Finally, unwind on Zanzibar's pristine shores, indulging in laid-back beach life, snorkelling, and luxurious villa accommodation at the Zawadi Hotel.

Highlights:

• Track golden monkeys and mountain gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park
• Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration and Big Five viewing in Tanzania's Serengeti
• Relax at a tropical beach resort in Zanzibar

Ideal For:

• Couples and romantic travellers
• Seasoned safari enthusiasts looking for a unique and diverse adventure

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7. East Africa's Luxury Gorillas & Safari

Duration: 11 Days | Destinations: 4

A pride of lions rests as safari-goers pass by on a game drive, Singita Sasakwa, Tanzania | Go2Africa
Game drives in the Serengeti at Singita Sasakwa Lodge.

Indulge in the ultimate luxury safari adventure, combining the majesty of Rwanda's gorillas with the thrill of Tanzania's Great Migration. This unforgettable 11-day journey weaves together exclusive, five-star accommodation, exhilarating wildlife encounters, and the finest safari experiences.

Begin in the Volcanoes National Park, where you will trek through lush rainforests in search of golden monkeys and endangered mountain gorillas. Then, journey to Tanzania's Singita Mara Camp, where you will witness the thunderous Great Migration from a privileged perspective. Take to the skies on an optional hot air balloon safari, drifting above the Serengeti's vast landscapes.

Highlights:

• Track golden monkeys and mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park
• Witness the Great Migration from a front-row seat
• Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and optional hot air balloon safaris
• Relax in five-star luxury accommodations, complete with rejuvenating spa treatments

Ideal For:

• First-time and repeat safari goers
• Photographers
• Luxury safari connoisseurs

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8. East Africa's Gorilla, Serengeti & Zanzibar

Duration: 12 Days | Destinations: 4

Great Migration at Sayari Camp, Tanzania | Go2Africa
Get close to wildlife at Sayari Camp.

Experience the ultimate East African safari adventure. Your journey begins in Rwanda's misty hills, where you will spend three nights in rustic luxury at the Virunga Lodge. Venture into the Volcanoes National Park and witness the captivating sight of mountain gorillas.

Your journey continues to the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Go on game drives, guided by experienced Maasai trackers, and envision the stories of the wild amidst the vast sounds and sights of untamed Africa. Unwind in luxurious tented suites at the award-winning Sayari Camp, with sweeping panoramic views of the Serengeti plains. Your journey concludes on the idyllic shores of Zanzibar, where crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches are the perfect end to an incredible safari.

Highlights:

• Track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in the Volcanoes National Park
• Big Five game viewing in Serengeti National Park
• Combine safari and beach holiday experiences
• Enjoy luxurious and intimate accommodation

Ideal For:

• Honeymooners and romantic travellers
• Bush & beach seekers
• East African safari connoisseurs

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9. Uganda & Rwanda Primate Wildlife Safari

Duration: 14 Days | Destinations: 6

Gorilla trekking at Mount Gahinga Lodge in Uganda | Go2Africa
One-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounters at Mount Gahinga Lodge.

Venture into the heart of Africa on a 14-day Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safari. As you step into the lush Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the sounds of the jungle envelop you, and the scent of damp earth fills your lungs. Here, you will track rare golden monkeys, their vibrant coats flashing through the underbrush.

Your journey continues into the Kibali Forest, where chimpanzees roam free, and their chattering calls echo through the trees. Enhance your safari experience with exhilarating game drives and boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the savannah stretches out before you like an endless canvas of gold and green. Unwind in world-class luxury accommodations, where fine dining, modern amenities, and exceptional service meet.

Highlights:

• Track mountain gorillas, rare golden monkeys, and chimpanzees in their natural habitats
• Enjoy game viewing and boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary on guided primate walks
• Visit the historic Milles Collines Hotel
• Engage in positive impact activities and initiatives

Ideal For:

• Beginner and seasoned safari enthusiasts
• Gorilla trekking enthusiasts and primate lovers

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10. Secret Gorillas, Chimps, Serengeti & Crater

Duration: 15 Days | Destinations: 6

Chimp tracking at Rubondo Island Camp, Tanzania | Go2Africa
Chimp tracking at Rubondo Island Camp.

Begin in Rwanda, where misty rainforests hum with life. Trek through the dense undergrowth, the scent of damp earth and fresh greenery filling the air, until you come face-to-face with a family of majestic mountain gorillas—a rare and humbling experience.

Next, journey to Rubondo Island at Lake Victoria, a hidden gem teeming with wildlife and where you can track habituated chimpanzees. Then, venture into the legendary Serengeti, where the Great Migration unfolds before your eyes—tens of thousands of wildebeest and zebras surge across the plains in a breathtaking display of survival and instinct. Conclude your journey at the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder where dramatic landscapes and exceptional game viewing create the perfect finale to your East African safari.

Highlights:

• Explore Rubondo Island and track habituated chimpanzees
• Trek for mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park
• Enjoy Big Five game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
• Encounter diverse wildlife in unique habitats
• Experience the convenience of fly-in travel

Ideal For:

• Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts
• Beginner and seasoned safari enthusiasts

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Ready to Plan Your Rwanda Safari?

If one of the above curated itineraries inspires you to start planning your next trip to the continent, our Africa Safari Experts are ready to put their first-hand expertise to good use. Get in touch to start the process of crafting the perfect Rwanda safari adventure:

Mandy Van Graan
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