2 Days Nyungwe Chimpanzee and Canopy Walk Safari in Rwanda

3 Days Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking Rwanda Tour

3 Days Safari to Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla Trekking

4 Days Luxury Gorilla Tracking Rwanda Tour

4 Days Primate Safari to Rwanda with Gorillas and Chimps

5 Days in Rwanda with Gorillas and Akagera Big Five Safari

 8 Days Rwanda Cultural and Primate Experience

12 Days Rwanda Safari in Volcanoes, Nyungwe and Akagera National Park

Named After the Kagera River

Akagera National Park, a must-visit during Rwanda tours, derives its name from the Akagera River, which flows along its eastern border with Tanzania. This river sustains a network of lakes, including Lake Ihema, creating a vital wetland ecosystem. These water sources support rich biodiversity, from hippos and crocodiles to countless bird species. Visitors exploring Rwanda tours witness the park’s unique landscapes shaped by the river, making Akagera a distinctive safari destination with diverse wildlife habitats.

Home to the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino)

 Akagera National Park stands out during Rwanda tours for hosting Africa’s Big Five. After lions were reintroduced in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, the park restored its full complement of iconic wildlife. More than 100 elephants, along with naturally occurring leopards and buffaloes, thrive here, offering spectacular game viewing. Travelers on Rwanda tours can encounter these majestic animals in their protected environment, making Akagera a premier wildlife conservation success story.

Largest Protected Wetland in Central Africa

Covering nearly one-third of its area, Akagera’s wetlands form the largest protected marshland in Central Africa, a paradise for birdwatchers during Rwanda tours. The park boasts over 500 bird species, including rare sightings of shoe-billed storks and papyrus gonoleks. These vast swamps also provide a crucial habitat for numerous aquatic and land animals. Exploring this rich wetland ecosystem during Rwanda tours offers travelers extraordinary opportunities to witness wildlife thriving in this pristine landscape.

Once Nearly Destroyed, Now a Conservation Success

 Akagera’s recovery is one of Africa’s greatest conservation stories, making it a fascinating destination for Rwanda tours. After the 1994 genocide, refugees settled in the park, leading to deforestation and severe wildlife losses. Since 2010, African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board have restored its ecosystem, increasing animal populations tenfold. Today, visitors exploring Rwanda tours witness thriving wildlife, a testament to Rwanda’s dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism.

Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema

 Among the most experiences during Rwanda tours is a boat safari on Lake Ihema, offering up-close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. The calm waters create perfect conditions for spotting animals as they gather along the shores. Sunset boat rides enhance the adventure, casting golden hues over the lake while wildlife roams freely. Whether observing hippos basking or rare bird species soaring overhead, this aquatic safari is an unforgettable highlight of Rwanda tours.

Only Place in Rwanda to See Giraffes and Zebras

 Akagera National Park is the sole location in Rwanda where visitors on Rwanda tours can see Masai giraffes and plains zebras, which were reintroduced and now thrive. These graceful animals roam the park’s savannah and woodlands, adding to its biodiversity. Giraffes elegantly browse treetops while zebras gather in herds across the open plains, offering stunning safari scenes. Their presence enhances Akagera’s appeal as a wildlife-rich destination during Rwanda tours.

Night Game Drives Available

 Akagera is among the few places in East Africa offering night game drives, an exciting experience during Rwanda tours. As darkness falls, visitors venture into the wilderness with expert guides, spotting leopards, hyenas, and other nocturnal species. The park comes alive with creatures rarely seen in daylight, making this adventure truly special. A night safari during Rwanda tours provides a unique opportunity to observe predators hunting and nocturnal wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.

Diverse Landscapes (Not Just Savannah)

 Unlike typical savannah parks, Akagera offers diverse landscapes, making it a breathtaking sight during Rwanda tours. Rolling hills, acacia woodlands, lakes, and papyrus swamps create varied habitats supporting diverse wildlife. Travelers witness shifting scenery, transitioning from dense forests to open plains, each hosting distinct animal species. Exploring this dynamic environment during Rwanda tours allows visitors to experience Rwanda’s stunning natural variety beyond traditional safari expectations.

Low Tourist Crowds

Akagera National Park offers exclusive safari experiences during Rwanda tours, thanks to its low visitor numbers compared to Serengeti or Masai Mara. Travelers enjoy peaceful game drives without overcrowded trails, ensuring intimate encounters with wildlife. This exclusivity makes Akagera a hidden gem for those seeking authentic safari experiences. Wildlife sightings are immersive, providing prime photography opportunities, making it a preferred choice for serene exploration during Rwanda tours.

Community Involvement in Conservation

Akagera’s success is deeply linked to local community participation, making it a rewarding stop during Rwanda tours. Former poachers have become rangers and guides, ensuring wildlife protection while benefiting from tourism. Revenue-sharing programs empower surrounding communities, fostering sustainable conservation efforts. Visitors on Rwanda tours witness how responsible tourism directly contributes to Akagera’s flourishing ecosystem, making their safari experience more meaningful and impactful

One of Africa’s Oldest Rainforests

 Nyungwe Forest has thrived for over 50,000 years, surviving the last Ice Age. As part of the Albertine Rift, it hosts an incredible diversity of wildlife, making it a must-visit during Rwanda tours. The forest’s ancient ecosystem supports rare primates, unique plants, and breathtaking landscapes. Exploring Nyungwe during Rwanda tours unveils the secrets of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, where conservation efforts ensure its preservation for future generations.

Home to Chimpanzees and 12 Other Primate Species

Nyungwe National Park is a primate paradise, home to 500 chimpanzees and several rare monkey species. During Rwanda tours, visitors can encounter Angolan colobus monkeys, which form Africa’s largest groups, and golden monkeys, only found in Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Park. The endangered L’Hoest’s monkey also thrives here, making Nyungwe a crucial conservation hub. Trekking through its dense forests during Rwanda tours offers unforgettable primate encounters.

Canopy Walkway  East Africa’s Only Suspended Bridge in a Forest

 Nyungwe boasts East Africa’s only 200-meter-long canopy walkway, suspended 70 meters above the ground. Adventurers on Rwanda tours can walk among treetops, spotting birds, monkeys, and panoramic forest views. The canopy bridge provides a thrilling way to appreciate Nyungwe’s biodiversity, giving visitors a rare perspective of the forest’s ecosystem. Experiencing this high-altitude trek during Rwanda tours is both exhilarating and visually stunning.

Over 1,000 Plant Species & 200 Orchids

 Nyungwe Forest supports an astonishing variety of flora, including towering mahogany trees, eucalyptus, and giant tree ferns. Many species hold medicinal value, with traditional healers using forest plants for remedies. During Rwanda tours, visitors can witness the vibrant orchids that bloom across the park, adding bursts of color to the lush landscape. Nyungwe’s plant diversity enhances its ecological richness, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers exploring Rwanda tours.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise over 300 Species

Nyungwe is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 recorded species, including rare Albertine Rift endemics. During Rwanda tours, visitors may spot the great blue turaco, known for its bright plumage, and the red-collared babbler, an exclusive species in the region. The Rwenzori turaco, with its striking colors, also thrives here. Birding excursions during Rwanda tours provide unique opportunities to observe Nyungwe’s avian diversity in its pristine rainforest habitat.

Source of the Nile’s Longest Tributary

 Nyungwe is the source of the Rukarara River, which feeds into Lake Victoria, contributing to the White Nile’s flow. This fascinating geographical feature makes the park a significant water source, and exploring it during Rwanda tours unveils vital ecological insights. Travelers can hike near the river’s origin, witnessing the landscape that channels water into one of Africa’s most important river systems. A visit here during Rwanda tours deepens appreciation for Africa’s hydrological wonders.

Hiking and Waterfall Adventures

 Nyungwe offers stunning hiking trails, such as the Igishigishigi Trail, which leads to the famous canopy walkway, and the Isumo Trail, which culminates in a picturesque waterfall and tea plantation. During Rwanda tours, adventurers can explore the Karamba Trail, a former gold mining site renowned for birding. Each trail showcases unique scenery, providing trekkers with breathtaking landscapes and exciting exploration opportunities. Hiking through Nyungwe’s trails enhances the adventure during Rwanda tours.

Tea Plantations Surround the Park

 Nyungwe is surrounded by lush tea plantations, particularly the renowned Gisakura Tea Estate. Visitors during Rwanda tours can explore tea factories, learning about Rwanda’s tea production and sampling its rich flavors. The plantations create beautiful green landscapes bordering the national park, adding to Nyungwe’s picturesque environment. A tea plantation tour during Rwanda tours offers insight into Rwanda’s agricultural heritage while immersing travelers in its scenic countryside.

Endangered Species Sanctuary

 Nyungwe serves as a sanctuary for endangered wildlife, including African golden cats, servals, and mongoose. During Rwanda tours, visitors may encounter rare amphibians and butterflies thriving in its protected ecosystem. The park plays a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable species, ensuring their survival amid conservation efforts. Exploring Nyungwe’s diverse wildlife during Rwanda tours allows travelers to witness the importance of preserving Africa’s rare and beautiful creatures.

Cultural Significance

Nyungwe Forest holds deep cultural meaning for local communities, who consider it sacred and believe it is home to spirits. Traditional healers harvest medicinal plants here, maintaining age-old practices. During Rwanda tours, visitors can learn about the region’s spiritual traditions and the forest’s role in local beliefs. Nyungwe is more than a biodiversity hotspot it is a cultural treasure that enriches Rwanda’s heritage, offering meaningful insights during Rwanda tours

Big Five Game Drives

 Akagera National Park is the only place in Rwanda where travelers on Rwanda tours can see the Big Five lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes in their natural habitat. The Mutumba Hills offer prime lion sightings, while Kilala Plains are home to black rhinos. Near the lakes, elephants gather, creating unforgettable safari moments. Morning and afternoon game drives during Rwanda tours provide excellent chances to witness these majestic animals in action.

Boat Safari on Lake Ihema

 A boat safari on Lake Ihema is a must-do during Rwanda tours, offering encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds like the shoebill stork. This experience allows visitors to glide peacefully through the park’s largest lake, spotting aquatic wildlife in their natural surroundings. Sunset boat rides create breathtaking golden-hour views, making this Rwanda tours activity one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to explore Akagera’s wetlands.

Night Game Drives

 Night safaris in Akagera are among the few opportunities in East Africa to see nocturnal predators during Rwanda tours. Using spotlights, travelers can observe leopards, hyenas, bushbabies, and other elusive creatures. Unlike daytime drives, night tours offer thrilling chances to witness animal behavior at its most intense, with predators actively hunting. This rare and exciting safari experience during Rwanda tours reveals a different side of Akagera’s wildlife after dusk.

Birdwatching (500+ Species)

 Akagera is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 500 species, including the African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, and saddle-billed stork. Prime locations such as Lake Shakani and the Akagera wetlands provide excellent viewing spots during Rwanda tours. The park’s diverse landscapes support a remarkable array of birds, making it a dream destination for birding enthusiasts. Whether spotting raptors or colorful wetland birds, Akagera’s avian diversity enhances the safari experience during Rwanda tours.

Walking Safaris (Guided Bush Walks)

Exploring Akagera on foot adds an immersive element to Rwanda tours, allowing visitors to track giraffes, zebras, and antelopes alongside armed rangers. Walking safaris provide a deeper connection to the park’s landscapes, uncovering hidden details often missed in vehicle safaris. The thrill of following animal footprints and learning about the ecosystem makes this Rwanda tours experience both adventurous and educational, offering close encounters with wildlife in a unique, untamed setting.

Visit the Karenge Bush Camp

 Located in the heart of Akagera, Karenge Bush Camp provides an exclusive experience during Rwanda tours, offering starlit dinners, campfire storytelling, and breathtaking wilderness views. The camp blends luxury with authentic safari charm, making it perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil retreat after thrilling game drives. With its intimate setting and eco-friendly design, Karenge Bush Camp elevates the adventure, ensuring an unforgettable stay during Rwanda tours.

Cultural Tours at Nearby Communities

 Akagera’s neighboring communities provide enriching experiences during Rwanda tours, where visitors can engage in traditional cattle herding, observing the iconic Ankole longhorn cows, or exploring local crafts. These interactions offer insight into Rwanda’s rural life, showcasing the strong relationship between conservation and culture. Learning from former poachers turned wildlife rangers highlights the park’s commitment to sustainable tourism, adding meaningful depth to any Rwanda tours itinerary

Chimpanzee Trekking

 One of the most exciting activities during Rwanda tours is chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park, particularly in the Cyamudongo sector, where habituated groups live. Treks begin at 5 AM, allowing visitors to observe chimps in their most active state. Permits cost $90–150, providing an unforgettable experience of witnessing chimps swinging through dense forests. For wildlife enthusiasts, tracking these intelligent primates during Rwanda tours is truly exhilarating.

Canopy Walkway Adventure

 Experience the thrill of walking on East Africa’s only suspended canopy bridge, stretching 160 meters long and 70 meters high above Nyungwe Forest during Rwanda tours. This unique perspective offers breathtaking treetop views, allowing visitors to spot primates, exotic birds, and lush greenery from above. The walkway adds an adventurous touch to Rwanda tours, making it a must-visit attraction for those seeking an unforgettable forest exploration.

Colobus Monkey Trekking

 Nyungwe is famous for hosting massive troops of Angolan colobus monkeys, sometimes numbering 300+ in a single group, making it a fascinating highlight of Rwanda tours. Observing their energetic movements and social interactions is a unique experience, as few places in Africa have such large primate gatherings. Their striking black-and-white fur adds to their appeal, making colobus monkey trekking an essential wildlife activity during Rwanda tours.

Waterfall Hikes

Rwanda tours through Nyungwe offer scenic waterfall hikes, including the Isumo Trail, a 4-hour trek winding through tea plantations to a stunning cascade. The Kamiranzovu Marsh Trail, meanwhile, leads explorers into Rwanda’s largest wetland, where unique flora and fauna thrive. These hikes provide an opportunity to immerse in untouched nature, making them perfect for adventure seekers eager to experience Nyungwe’s hidden wonders during Rwanda tours.

Birdwatching 300 Species

Nyungwe is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting over 300 species, including Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori turaco and blue-headed sunbird. Birdwatching excursions during Rwanda tours offer the chance to spot these rare species in their natural habitat. With its diverse landscapes providing excellent viewing spots, Nyungwe remains a top destination for avid birders seeking to explore Rwanda’s rich avian biodiversity during Rwanda tours.

Tea Plantation Tours

 Visitors can explore Gisakura Tea Estate during Rwanda tours, learning about Rwanda’s famed tea production. The lush plantations surrounding Nyungwe National Park create breathtaking scenery, offering insights into traditional tea-growing practices. Guests can participate in tea-tasting experiences, gaining knowledge of how Rwanda produces its high-quality tea. This immersive tour complements nature expeditions, making it a refreshing break from trekking adventures during Rwanda tours.

Cultural Encounters

 Nyungwe holds deep cultural significance, and Rwanda tours allow visitors to interact with local healers, who use forest plants for traditional medicine, or enjoy Rwandan dance performances. These encounters provide meaningful insights into indigenous knowledge and heritage, enriching the experience beyond wildlife exploration. Understanding the forest’s spiritual connections and cultural traditions adds depth to Rwanda tours, making them educational and engaging for travelers.

Multi-Day Hiking Trails

 Trekking lovers can explore multi-day hiking trails during Rwanda tours, including the Igishigishigi Trail, which leads to the canopy walkway, and the Irebero Trail, a challenging summit hike offering breathtaking views. These trails showcase Nyungwe’s incredible landscapes, from dense rainforest to high-altitude lookouts. For adventure seekers, hiking through these rugged terrains during Rwanda tours provides an immersive experience in one of Africa’s most pristine forests

To reach Rwanda tours, travelers typically fly into Kigali International Airport, the country’s main entry point. From Kigali, it’s a 2.5-hour drive to Volcanoes National Park, where gorilla trekking takes place, or a 5-hour drive to Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee trekking. Visitors can hire private vehicles, book guided tours, or use local transport, as roads are well-maintained. Planning ahead ensures a seamless journey, making Rwanda tours an unforgettable adventure through breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife encounters

The best time for Rwanda tours is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer ideal conditions for activities like gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and hiking, as trails are less muddy and visibility is better. While Rwanda tours are possible year-round, the rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) can make trekking more challenging. However, the wet months bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds, offering a unique experience for adventurous travelers

For Rwanda tours, top accommodations include Bisate Lodge near Volcanoes National Park for luxury stays, Karenge Bush Camp in Akagera for an immersive safari experience, and Gisakura Guesthouse near Nyungwe for budget-friendly options. In Kigali, Park Inn by Radisson offers modern comfort. Whether trekking gorillas or exploring wildlife, these lodges provide excellent service, ensuring a memorable Rwanda tours adventure

Booking with Dav Safaris ensures a tailored, professional, and unforgettable safari experience. We specialize in mountain gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, birding, and cultural tours across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Our expert guides, well-maintained vehicles, and personalized itineraries guarantee a seamless adventure. Whether exploring Volcanoes National Park for Rwanda gorilla trekking or witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania, Dav Safaris prioritizes comfort, safety, and authenticity, our commitment to ethical tourism and community engagement makes them a top choice for responsible travelers