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The Land of a Thousand Hills and Unexpected Luxury

Rwanda offers more than just gorilla trekking. This compact, beautiful country is where misty mountains, luxury lodges, and meaningful conservation work come together. In Volcanoes National Park, hike through lush rainforest to visit endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In Akagera, explore savannah plains on a Big Five safari. At Lake Kivu, unwind by quiet waters and watch fishermen glide across the horizon.

With excellent roads, a growing list of high-end lodges, and some of Africa’s most progressive conservation stories, Rwanda is perfect for those looking to combine adventure and comfort. Whether it’s your first time in Africa or your fifth, Rwanda leaves a lasting mark.

Plan Your Rwanda Safari

Let’s start designing your tailor-made Rwanda safari experience. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or both – we’ll tailor every detail to how

THE UBUNTU TRAVEL DIFFERENCE

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Personalized Itineraries

Attention to detail from start to finish

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Conservation Promise

Travel with a purpose

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Experts in Africa

Our team of travel experts know Africa

destination-90x90

Personalized Itineraries

Attention to detail from start to finish

ecology-90x90

Conservation Promise

Travel with a purpose

africa-90x90

Experts in Africa

Our team of travel experts know Africa

Ready to Plan your Rwanda Safari?

Reach out today and connect with our expert team – we care about the whole journey, from your very first call to your final farewell on safari. Every itinerary is thoughtfully designed by our co-founders, Kyle and Leah, to reflect the kind of journey we’d take ourselves.

When is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda?

Rwanda is a year-round safari destination, but your experience will vary depending on the season,  especially for gorilla trekking. Dry seasons bring the best conditions, while the rainy months offer fewer crowds and better permit availability.

Peak Seasons (Best Conditions)

June to September – The longest dry season, offering excellent trekking conditions with minimal rain.

December to February – Another dry season, ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, with good visibility.

Low Seasons (More Availability & Fewer Crowds)

March to May (Long Rainy Season) – Heavier rains make trekking more challenging, but fewer tourists mean more permit availability.

October to November (Short Rainy Season) – Rain is less intense, and gorillas are still easily tracked, making perfect for those wanting a quieter experience.

Ubuntu Travel’s Tip: Gorilla permits are limited and should be booked well in advance for peak months. Our team can help secure your spot and guide you through the process.

 FAQs About Safaris in Rwanda

How do I get to Rwanda from the USA?

Most travelers from the U.S. fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL), the main international gateway to Rwanda. There are no direct flights from the United States, but several convenient one-stop connections make the journey relatively smooth.

Recommended Routes:

  • From the East Coast:

Fly from New York (JFK) or Washington D.C. (IAD) via Brussels (BRU) on Brussels Airlines, which offers one of the most direct and reliable connections to Kigali.
Qatar Airways offers service from JFK and other major U.S. cities via Doha (DOH).

  • From the West Coast:

Connect via Amsterdam (AMS), Istanbul (IST), or Doha (DOH) from cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
KLM, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways are popular carriers for these routes.

Once in Kigali, you’re only a short transfer away from beginning your journey into Rwanda’s national parks. Volcanoes National Park is about 2.5 hours by road from Kigali, and domestic flights or private charters are available for those heading to Akagera or Nyungwe.

Ubuntu Travel handles all regional logistics, including VIP airport services, scenic transfers, and seamless park access — ensuring your arrival in Rwanda is stress-free and personalized from the moment you land.

Is Rwanda safe for travelers?

Yes. Rwanda is widely regarded as one of the safest and cleanest countries in Africa. The capital city, Kigali, has a strong reputation for being secure, well-organized, and welcoming to international visitors. Tourism is a major priority for the government, and the country maintains a visible security presence in cities and national parks alike.

Visitors regularly comment on the friendliness of locals and the efficient infrastructure, especially compared to other regions. As with any destination, standard travel precautions apply, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep valuables secure.

When traveling with Ubuntu Travel, every detail is managed. From your airport arrival to park transfers and guided activities, we ensure a seamless and safe experience throughout your journey.

Is gorilla trekking in Rwanda safe?

Yes. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is considered very safe and professionally managed. Volcanoes National Park is patrolled by experienced rangers, and each trek is led by expert guides and trackers.

Before setting out, all guests receive a full safety briefing. The mountain gorillas you visit are habituated to humans, and each group is limited to a maximum of eight travelers. Visits are strictly timed to one hour to minimize impact.

Armed rangers accompany each trek. This is not because gorillas are dangerous, but to ensure safety in the forest environment.

Co-founders Kyle and Leah Green have personally trekked in Rwanda many times. Their experiences help us design every journey with care and confidence. Rwanda itself is politically stable, secure, and incredibly welcoming to visitors.

How far in advance should I book a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda?

We recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak dry season (June–September). Rwanda only issues a limited number of gorilla permits per day (96 max), and they are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

Luxury lodges near Volcanoes National Park, such as Singita Kwitonda or Bisate Lodge, also fill up well in advance. Booking early ensures you get the best dates, guides, and lodge availability.

Can I combine Rwanda with other African destinations?

Absolutely. Rwanda pairs exceptionally well with Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa. One of the most popular combinations is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park followed by a Big Five safari in the Serengeti or Masai Mara.

You can also extend your journey with a beach escape in Cape Town or a visit to Victoria Falls. Rwanda’s international airport in Kigali is well-connected to major East and Southern African hubs, making seamless regional itineraries possible.

We’ll go over all these options during your one-on-one planning session to design a journey that fits your travel style and interests perfectly.

Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

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Our Guide to Walking Safaris

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Rwanda – Beyond the Gorillas

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