Popular Things to Do on Rwanda Safari Tours

Rwanda is a country of exceptional natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Despite its relatively small size, Rwanda offers a wide range of experiences that appeal to both adventure seekers and those looking for serene escapes. A Rwanda safari tour combines breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife encounters, and immersive cultural experiences, making it one of East Africa’s most sought-after travel destinations. From tracking mountain gorillas to exploring vibrant cities and tranquil lakes, there is an abundance of activities to enjoy on a safari in Rwanda.

One of the most iconic experiences on a Rwanda safari is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This unforgettable adventure takes travellers deep into the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Guided by expert rangers, visitors hike through dense bamboo and tropical forests, following the movements of habituated gorilla families. Once the gorillas are located, travellers spend an hour observing their behavior, from the majestic silverbacks to the playful infants. Gorilla trekking is not only thrilling but also supports conservation efforts, as the fees from permits directly fund the protection of these critically endangered primates.

Golden monkey tracking is another unique wildlife experience offered in Volcanoes National Park. While gorillas take center stage, golden monkeys smaller, strikingly colored primates provide equally captivating encounters. These monkeys are active and social, often seen leaping through bamboo forests and interacting with each other in playful ways. The trek to find them is typically shorter than gorilla trekking, making it accessible for travelers who may not want a long, strenuous hike. Both gorilla and golden monkey trekking highlight Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife preservation while offering visitors unforgettable, up-close experiences with rare species.

For those interested in more traditional safari adventures, Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda is a must-visit destination. Unlike the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park, Akagera features savannahs, wetlands, and rolling hills, providing the perfect habitat for Africa’s classic wildlife. Game drives in Akagera allow travelers to spot the Big Five; lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos alongside giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can also enjoy boat safaris on Lake Ihema, spotting crocodiles, hippos, and waterbirds in their natural environment. Akagera combines adventure with the quintessential African safari experience, all within Rwanda’s safe and well-managed park system.

Exploring Nyungwe National Park is a must for nature enthusiasts and those interested in primate diversity. This ancient rainforest is home to over thirteen species of primates, including chimpanzees, and is renowned for its rich biodiversity. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe offers a thrilling experience, as visitors track these intelligent primates through lush forests. The park also features a canopy walk, suspended high above the forest floor, giving trekkers panoramic views of the forest, waterfalls, and wildlife below. Birdwatching is another highlight, with more than 300 bird species recorded in the park. Nyungwe is ideal for travelers who enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, and immersive nature experiences.

Visiting Lake Kivu provides a peaceful contrast to the more active safari destinations. This expansive freshwater lake, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo, is known for its stunning scenery, calm waters, and picturesque lakeside towns such as Gisenyi and Kibuye. Travelers can relax on sandy beaches, take boat rides to explore islands, or enjoy water sports such as kayaking and fishing. The lake area also offers luxury lodges and resorts, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after wildlife excursions. In addition to relaxation, visitors can interact with local communities and experience traditional Rwandan culture through music, dance, and cuisine.

Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is another key stop on safari tours, offering a combination of history, culture, and modern amenities. Kigali is renowned for its cleanliness, safety, and vibrant atmosphere. Travellers often visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand the country’s tragic past and remarkable recovery. The city also offers lively markets, art galleries, and craft shops, where visitors can purchase traditional Rwandan items such as woven baskets, wood carvings, and jewelry. Kigali’s thriving food scene provides an opportunity to savor Rwandan cuisine, including local dishes like brochettes, isombe, and fresh tropical fruits.

For cultural immersion, visiting local communities near Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks provides insight into Rwandan traditions and daily life. Many villages offer guided tours where travelers can learn about traditional crafts, farming practices, and local cuisine. Cultural experiences often include drumming and dance performances, cooking classes, and interactive storytelling sessions. Participating in these activities not only enriches the travel experience but also supports community-based tourism initiatives, ensuring that local people benefit directly from tourism.

Adventure seekers can also enjoy hiking the Virunga Volcanoes for spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Popular peaks include Mount Bisoke, with its crater lake, and Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest volcano. These hikes vary in difficulty, accommodating both casual hikers and experienced mountaineers. The trails offer stunning views of rolling hills, forested slopes, and sometimes even glimpses of gorilla or golden monkey families in the distance. Hiking the volcanoes is an exhilarating way to connect with Rwanda’s natural beauty and enjoy breathtaking panoramas that few destinations in Africa can match.

Another exciting activity on Rwanda safari tours is birdwatching, which is particularly rewarding given the country’s rich avian diversity. Rwanda is home to over 700 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, African green broadbill, and grey-crowned crane, the national bird. Birdwatchers often visit Akagera, Nyungwe, and Lake Ihema to spot these species in their natural habitats. Guided birdwatching tours provide the expertise needed to identify species while offering insights into their behavior, habitats, and conservation status. This activity is perfect for travellers who appreciate wildlife observation and photography.

Finally, community-led eco-tourism experiences add depth and purpose to Rwanda safari tours. Several organizations around Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks engage tourists in conservation projects, from tree planting initiatives to wildlife monitoring programs. Travellers can participate in these activities, gaining a firsthand understanding of conservation challenges and successes in Rwanda. This form of tourism ensures that visitors contribute meaningfully to environmental and social sustainability while enjoying authentic and memorable experiences.

Rwanda safari tours offer an unparalleled combination of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to enjoying luxury stays by Lake Kivu, hiking volcanic peaks, and engaging with local communities, there is an abundance of activities to suit every traveller. Akagera National Park provides the classic African safari experience, while Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park cater to primate lovers and adventurers. The capital city of Kigali adds historical and cultural context, and eco-tourism initiatives ensure that travel benefits both people and wildlife.

Every activity on a Rwanda safari tour highlights the country’s unique appeal: its commitment to conservation, the warmth of its people, and the breathtaking diversity of its landscapes. Travellers leave with memories of intimate wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and meaningful cultural experiences that are hard to replicate anywhere else. Whether it’s the thrill of gorilla trekking, the serenity of Lake Kivu, or the adventure of hiking volcanic mountains, Rwanda provides a complete safari experience that balances nature, adventure, and cultural engagement.

Rwanda’s growing reputation as a premier safari destination is well-deserved, as it offers a combination of accessibility, safety, and world-class experiences. Its compact size allows travellers to see multiple attractions in a relatively short time, making it ideal for both short tours and extended safari journeys. With luxury lodges, mid-range accommodations, and community-based options available throughout the country, every traveller can find a suitable base from which to explore. By engaging in the diverse range of activities offered, visitors gain a deeper appreciation of Rwanda’s rich wildlife, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

From wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking to cultural tours and lakeside relaxation, Rwanda safari tours offer something for everyone. These experiences, coupled with the country’s dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism, ensure that travellers leave with not only unforgettable memories but also a sense of connection to the land and its people. By including these activities in a Rwanda safari itinerary, travellers can enjoy a comprehensive, enriching, and truly remarkable journey through one of Africa’s most scenic and dynamic destinations.