Here are the top 5 things to do on the Rwanda Safari Holiday. From mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, cultural encounters at Ibyiwacu Cultural Village to sundowner at Lake Kivu.
Rwanda, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of East Africa, promises an extraordinary Rwanda Safari Holiday that will transform your travel expectations forever! Imagine a destination where lush landscapes meet incredible wildlife, rich Rwanda cultural experiences intertwine with breathtaking natural beauty, and every moment feels like a page from an adventure novel. According to the Rwanda Development Board, tourism has become one of the country's fastest-growing economic sectors, with safari experiences drawing travellers from across the globe during their Rwanda Safari Holiday.
The magic of a Rwanda Safari Holiday isn't just about seeing incredible wildlife it's about immersing yourself in an experience that touches your soul. From the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park harbouring endangered mountain gorillas to the vibrant cultural experiences of the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village that showcase Rwanda's incredible heritage, this destination offers something truly unique for every traveller.
Our Popular Packages
3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda
4 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park and Lake Kivu Safari
4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari
5 Days Amboseli and Tsavo West Wildlife Safari
6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route
8 Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar
1. Gorilla Trekking during the Rwanda Safari Holiday
Volcanoes National Park stands as the crown jewel of any Rwanda Safari Holiday, offering an unparalleled mountain gorilla trekking experience that will forever change your perspective on wildlife encounters. Located in the northwestern part of Rwanda in Musanze, approximately 120 kilometres from Kigali (a 2–3-hour drive), this extraordinary destination allows visitors to trek through misty mountains and encounter the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The best time for gorilla trekking during your Rwanda Safari Holiday is during the dry seasons - from June to September and December to February. Rwanda Gorilla Permits are crucial and currently cost $1,500 for international tourists, $500 for foreign residents, and $200 for East African Community members. Each gorilla trekking experience typically lasts 2-4 hours, with actual mountain gorilla observation time limited to one magical hour.
Local guides from the Rwandan Development Board accompany each group, ensuring not just safety but providing incredible insights into mountain gorilla behavior and conservation efforts. The terrain can be challenging, requiring moderate fitness levels, but the reward of watching these magnificent creatures in their natural environment is absolutely incomparable during your Rwanda Safari Holiday.
2. Chimpanzee Trekking during Rwanda Safari Holiday
Nyungwe National Park offers an extraordinary chimpanzee trekking experience that complements the mountain gorilla encounters during your Rwanda Safari Holiday. Located in southwestern Rwanda, approximately 225 kilometres from Kigali (a 4–5-hour scenic drive), this ancient rainforest is home to over 500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species.
The best chimpanzee trekking periods during your Rwanda Safari Holiday are from June to September and December to February when trails are drier and more accessible. Chimpanzee trekking permits cost around $90 for international tourists, $60 for foreign residents, and considerably less for East African Community members.
Treks typically start early morning, with experienced guides leading small groups through dense forests. The challenging terrain requires good physical fitness, but the opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat makes every step worthwhile during your Rwanda Safari Holiday.
3. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial during the Rwanda Safari Holiday
No Rwanda Safari Holiday is complete without understanding the country's profound history. The Kigali Genocide Memorial, located in the heart of Kigali city, offers a deeply moving and educational experience that provides context to Rwanda's remarkable journey of reconciliation and hope.
Just 10 minutes from Kigali's city center, Kigali Genocide Memorial is easily accessible and costs approximately $0 for visitors but visitors are highly encouraged to tip. The site not only commemorates the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi but also serves as a powerful educational center about human rights and peace-building.
Visitors during their Rwanda Safari Holiday can explore extensive exhibits, personal testimonies, and memorial gardens that tell a story of resilience, healing, and hope. The experience is emotionally profound, offering deep insights into Rwanda's incredible transformation.
4. Sundowner on Lake Kivu during Rwanda Safari Holiday
Lake Kivu presents a breathtaking finale to any Rwanda Safari Holiday, offering stunning sunset experiences in one of Africa's most picturesque settings. Located in western Rwanda, the lake spans approximately 2,700 square kilometers and borders the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The best sundowner experiences on Lake Kivu occur from June to September when skies are clearer. Towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye offer incredible lakeside venues where travelers can enjoy local drinks, fresh fish, and mesmerizing sunset views. Boat tours cost around $50-$100, depending on duration and group size.
Local restaurants and lakeside resorts provide perfect vantage points during your Rwanda Safari Holiday, allowing you to soak in the tranquil atmosphere while enjoying locally prepared cuisine and watching the sun dip below the spectacular African horizon.
5. Visit the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village during the Rwanda Safari Holiday
The Ibyiwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District offers an immersive cultural experience that brings Rwanda's rich traditions to life during your Rwanda Safari Holiday. Located just 4 kilometers from the Kinigi Park entrance, the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village is a community-based tourism initiative that provides authentic insights into traditional Rwandan life.
Entry costs approximately $30 for international tourists, with proceeds directly supporting local community development. Visitors can participate in traditional dance performances, learn about local crafts, and interact with community members who share their stories and heritage.
The best times to visit are during dry seasons when cultural performances and outdoor activities are most vibrant. Each experience offers a unique glimpse into Rwanda's incredible cultural landscape, making it an essential component of any Rwanda Safari Holiday.
Booking Your Rwanda Safari Holiday with Dav Safaris
As you contemplate this extraordinary journey, consider partnering with experienced local operators like Dav Safaris, who specialize in creating personalized, unforgettable Rwanda Safari Holiday experiences. Our deep local knowledge, commitment to sustainable tourism, and personalized approach ensure that your adventure will be nothing short of magical.
From seamless permit arrangements to expert guides and comprehensive itineraries, Dav Safaris represents the perfect gateway to exploring Rwanda's incredible landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Your Rwanda Safari Holiday isn't just a trip it's a transformative journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Contact our team for more information on your next Rwanda Safari Holiday and remember to check out recent client reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right choice.