A silverback mountain gorilla in a rainforest in Rwanda | Go2Africa

Rwanda Safari Costs

Types Of Safaris In Rwanda & Their Cost

Famed for its unique and varied environments – from volcanoes and verdant forests to savannas and rolling hills – Rwanda is an adventurers paradise. One of its primary calling cards are gorilla trekking safaris and the chance to see chimpanzees flit from tree to tree in lush forests. To the south, Akagera National Park draws in travellers with a myriad of safari heavyweights as well as some smaller game. The best times to visit are from June to September and again from late December to February in order to avoid the rainy seasons.

While we could sing Rwanda's praises and all it has to offer for paragraphs to come, the age-old question of what does a Rwanda safari actually cost needs to be answered. Important to note here is that Rwanda is frequently part of a multi-destination trip with the likes of Kenya or Tanzania, so remember to check their associated costs too if you plan to do that. Explore some of our top Rwanda tours and safaris if you’re hoping to enjoy various experiences and locations.

Rwanda Safaris: What Are Your Options

As a fairly compact country, the best places to visit in Rwanda are not too difficult to reach, nor take too long to get to. From the main city and capital, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park and the sought-after mountain gorillas are but a few hours' drive. So, what are your safari options in Rwanda? We break it down below:

Fly-in Safaris & Transfers: From Kigali International Airport, it's a short drive into the city itself. To access Volcanoes National Park from Kigali, it's typical to transfer via road and 4×4 vehicle for the 2.5-hour drive. Alternatively, some travellers opt to shorten the trip via helicopter, giving them a chance to view the landscape from above.
Gorilla Trekking: While Rwanda has a lot to offer, their fantastic gorilla trekking experiences are undoubtedly one of the main reasons for a safari visit. Enjoy the chance to see chimpanzees and other primates during your stay.
Classic Safaris: Think game drives, nature walks, and sublime sundowners in the bush. Spot big game, a variety of aviary species, and even embark on sunset cruises and night drives. Akagera National Park is also located just 3 hours from Kigali by car making a classic Rwanda safari easy to arrange and enjoy.

How Much Does A Safari Cost In Rwanda?

A Rwanda safari typically ranges from $900 to $3,600 per person per night based on double occupancy, depending on the level of luxury, season, and type of experience. Mid-range options start around $900, while luxury safaris and 5-star stays near gorilla trekking areas can reach up to $3,600. Costs are influenced by accommodation location, whether gorilla permits are included, and the level of exclusivity.

Rwanda Safari Tour Costs

As with any holiday, what you choose to do, and where you go will impact the general cost of your safari. The below table breaks down costs for Rwanda safaris calculated per person per night sharing in both low and high season:

Mid-Range		Luxury		5-Star
Low	High	Low	High	Low	High
$9000 pps*	$1,150 pps*	$1,500 pps*	$2,100 pps*	$2,700 pps*	$3,600 pps*

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

Safari drive, Rwanda | Go2Africa — Game drives in Rwanda | Wilderness Magashi Camp

Rwanda Accommodation Costs

Rwanda accommodation is often divided into two categories, the first being hotels in the capital, Kigali, and safari lodges and camps found in Rwanda's parks and reserves. As Volcanoes National Park is the most popular area for gorilla trekking, staying here is ideal for guests who hope to enjoy forest views, adventurous activities, and the chance to see primates. Accommodation costs will largely depend on the level of comfort and location of a camp or lodge as well as if they offer gorilla treks from the property.

Rwanda Accommodation Prices

Entry Level Drive		Mid Range Drive		Luxury Drive		5 Star Option
Low	High	Low	High	Low	High	Low	High
$1,030 pps*	$1,100 pps*	$1,850 pps*	$2,100 pps*	$2,200 pps*	$2,800 pps*	$2,400 pps*	$3,200 pps*

How Does The Time Of Year Affect The Cost Of A Rwanda Safari?

The time of year plays a key role in determining the cost of a Rwanda safari, especially for those planning gorilla trekking adventures. Peak travel months, such as June to September and late December to February, fall within the dry seasons—the most desirable times for trekking due to clear trails, comfortable hiking conditions, and lower malaria risk. As a result, prices for accommodation and permits are typically higher during these months. In contrast, the shoulder seasons, when rain is more common, may offer lower rates and fewer tourists, but trekking conditions can be muddy, cooler, and less predictable, with occasional delays or cancellations.

Additional Costs

It's important to note that ‘all-inclusive' may not be as comprehensive as you first expect. In Africa, and on safaris, that can mean a range of things and it's always worth clarifying what is not included. One of the first things to do is consult our blog on visa free African countries for US citizens as that may tick off one of the boxes regarding associated costs already. What possible additional costs could you come across? Have a look at our list below:

International flights / getting to the country – as a rule of thumb, consider this excluded.
Getting from place to place – internal transfers may be included with some accommodations, however, some others may be at your own cost. Helicopter transfers will likely be at an additional cost.
Vaccinations – certain destinations require vaccinations prior to arrival. These are excluded and you will need to contact your healthcare professional to ensure the requirements are met.
Tipping is always optional but highly recommended. It's always worth carrying cash during your travels as it's the easiest way to go about this. Consult our tipping guide for more information.
Personal and travel insurance.
Additional activities – anything over and above the included activity offerings at an accommodation, which typically extends to hot air balloon safaris and helicopter flips or sometimes even cultural excursions.
The exchange rate – international card payments will likely incur a small fee for paying in a different currency. Rwanda’s national currency is the Rwandan Franc but other currencies, such as the US dollar, are sometimes accepted. We advise carrying cash as cards are not accepted everywhere.

Should you wish to plan your next great adventure with the help and guidance of one of our Africa Safari Experts, they will be able to advise you on all of the above and ensure each of your transfers is organised ahead of time and occurs as seamlessly as possible – just remember, in travelling, anything can happen and sometimes delays are unavoidable.

Help Me Plan