Safari in Rwanda

Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park is the premier gorilla trekking destination, made famous by Dian Fossey. This small but stunning country also offers...

Rwanda Safari at a Glance

3 safari regions, 8 parks & reserves, 162 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Rwanda

UK FCDO: Advises against all but essential travel to parts.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

The best months to visit Rwanda are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 15.5°C, rainfall 134.9mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • February: Good, temperature 16°C, rainfall 134.8mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • March: Good, temperature 16°C, rainfall 162.7mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • April: Poor, temperature 15.6°C, rainfall 152mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 83.2%
  • May: Good, temperature 15.8°C, rainfall 94.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • June: Great, temperature 15.5°C, rainfall 27.3mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 68.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 15.7°C, rainfall 18.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.2°C, rainfall 46.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 65.4%
  • September: Good, temperature 15.9°C, rainfall 104.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 73.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 16.1°C, rainfall 121.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 75.1%
  • November: Poor, temperature 15.4°C, rainfall 160.7mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 80.8%
  • December: Good, temperature 15.3°C, rainfall 144.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 80.8%

Wildlife in Rwanda

Home to 162 recorded species including 72 iconic birds, 35 waterbirds, 29 birds of prey, 5 primates, 5 big five, 5 tropical birds.

Notable Species in Rwanda

Recommended Packing List for Rwanda

Based on average temperature of 15.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 75%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 16°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Rwanda

Rwanda offers an unparalleled safari experience, from the iconic gorilla treks to excellent chimpanzee tracking and Big Five game viewing. We find the country to be exceptionally safe and welcoming for travellers, with a strong emphasis on conservation and security. With sensible health precautions and a robust travel insurance policy, your focus can remain entirely on the incredible wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes.

Visa

For most nationalities, a visa is required to enter Rwanda. We find the easiest and most convenient way is to apply for an e-visa online before your departure. Alternatively, many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport. Always check the most current requirements for your specific passport well in advance of your travel dates.

Malaria

Malaria risk is present throughout Rwanda, particularly in lower-lying areas such as Akagera National Park and around Lake Kivu. While the higher altitudes of Volcanoes National Park have a significantly lower risk, we still strongly recommend discussing appropriate anti-malarial prophylaxis with your doctor. Always use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets.

Safari Calendar - Rwanda

Rwanda offers exceptional safari experiences year-round, but we generally recommend the dry seasons for optimal gorilla trekking conditions. The long dry season from June to September provides the driest trails and clearest skies, making it ideal for combining gorilla encounters with game drives in Akagera. The short dry season, from December to February, is also excellent, offering pleasant weather and slightly fewer crowds than the peak summer months. While the rainy seasons bring muddy trails, they also present incredibly lush landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and often lower permit costs, which we believe offers a unique and rewarding perspective for the adventurous traveler.

January - Short Dry Season

We recommend starting the year with a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, as the clear skies provide stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

February - Short Dry Season

This is a fantastic time to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Akagera for Big Five viewing, as the landscapes are still relatively green but dry.

March - Long Rains

We find March to be a rewarding month for birdwatchers, especially in Nyungwe Forest, where the vibrant plumage of numerous species is a sight to behold.

April - Long Rains

For those seeking solitude and lower permit costs, April offers a unique, intimate experience with the gorillas amidst the incredibly verdant forest.

May - Long Rains

We love May for its dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time for photographers to capture Rwanda's natural beauty.

June - Long Dry Season

This is one of our favorite months for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and the weather is consistently clear, offering superb visibility.

July - Long Dry Season

We highly recommend July for a classic Rwandan safari experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with exceptional game drives in Akagera.

August - Long Dry Season

For guaranteed dry trails and excellent visibility, August is an unbeatable choice for both gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

September - Long Dry Season

We find September to be a wonderful balance, offering excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.

October - Short Rains

We recommend October for those who appreciate lush, green landscapes and vibrant birdlife, as the country truly comes alive after the dry season.

November - Short Rains

For a truly immersive forest experience and unparalleled birdwatching, November in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an absolute gem.

December - Short Dry Season

We find December, particularly the latter half, to be a wonderful time for a festive safari, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a celebratory atmosphere.

Safari Regions

Rwanda FAQs

What are the requirements and physical demands for gorilla trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park?

Gorilla trekking permits cost $1500 USD per person and require participants to be at least 15 years old. While treks vary in difficulty from 1 to 8 hours, a reasonable level of fitness is essential as you'll navigate steep, muddy, and dense terrain at high altitudes.

How can I combine Rwanda's primate experiences with a Big Five safari, and what's the typical travel time between parks?

Rwanda's compact size makes combining gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest and a Big Five safari in Akagera National Park very feasible. Travel times between these key parks are relatively short, often just 3-5 hours by road, allowing for efficient multi-faceted itineraries.

When is the best time to visit Rwanda for optimal gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing conditions?

The best time to visit Rwanda is during the long dry season from June to September or the shorter dry season from December to February. These periods offer easier trekking conditions with less mud and clearer paths in the rainforests, alongside better visibility for game viewing in Akagera.

Beyond the high cost of gorilla permits, what should I budget for a typical safari trip to Rwanda?

While the $1500 USD gorilla permit is a significant cost, a comprehensive Rwandan safari also requires budgeting for accommodation, internal transfers, and other park activities like chimpanzee tracking ($150 USD). Expect daily costs for mid-range to luxury safaris to range from $500-$1500+ per person, excluding international flights.

Is Rwanda a safe country for tourists, and what are the general health precautions I should be aware of?

Rwanda is widely considered one of Africa's safest and most stable countries for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. For health, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is often required, and malaria prophylaxis is recommended, especially when visiting lower-altitude areas like Akagera National Park.

Recommended Books for Rwanda

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Rwanda by Philip Briggs - The leading guide to Rwanda covering gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Akagera's Big Five safari, Nyungwe Forest chimps, and Kigali. Written by Africa's most prolific guidebook author.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in East Africa