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.
Rwanda Destination and Safari Highlights
Our top experiences and regions to explore in Rwanda. Scroll down to discover the full list of destinations, parks, and lodges you can include in your tailor-made trip.
Gorilla Trekking
A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trek through the slopes of Volcanoes National Park to spend an hour with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Big Five Safari in Akagera National Park
Explore Rwanda’s savannah side at Akagera, home to the Big Five and incredible birdlife. Stay at Wilderness Magashi for a private safari experience overlooking Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Cultural & Historical Tours
From the Kigali Genocide Memorial to meaningful visits with local communities, Rwanda offers powerful experiences that connect travelers to its history, culture, and path forward.
Nyungwe National Park
Hike through ancient rainforest trails and experience unparalleled views from a suspended canopy walkway. Home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 300 bird species.
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
Tailored Rwanda Safari Itineraries
These are some of our favorite Tanzania safari itineraries – handpicked by Ubuntu Travel co-founders Kyle and Leah to highlight the very best of the country.
8-Day Gorilla Trekking & Big Five Safari
Embark on a transformative safari journey from Kigali to Akagera National Park, where you’ll stay at Magashi Lodge and join African Parks’ conservation efforts. Encounter the iconic mountain gorillas at Volcanoes National Park, staying at Bisate Lodge and contributing to the Volcanoes National Park expansion project.
FROM $12,600
PER PERSON
Luxury Gorilla Trekking Honeymoon in Rwanda
Experience romance and adventure in Rwanda. Trek through Volcanoes National Park for unforgettable gorilla encounters, then unwind at Magashi Camp in Akagera National Park, enjoying Big Five safaris and sunset boat cruises – blending luxury, wildlife, and serenity.
FROM $12,200
PER PERSON
5-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour
If you have ever dreamed of viewing mountain gorillas in the wild, this itinerary will take you there. This 5-day itinerary will take you up close and personal with primates, including trekking with the gorillas and wildlife encounters in Volcanoes National Park.
FROM $10,500
PER PERSON
THE UBUNTU TRAVEL DIFFERENCE
Personalized Itineraries
Attention to detail from start to finish
Conservation Promise
Travel with a purpose
Experts in Africa
Our team of travel experts know Africa
Personalized Itineraries
Attention to detail from start to finish
Conservation Promise
Travel with a purpose
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.
Safari Destinations to Visit in Rwanda
Explore Rwanda’s most iconic regions. Visit misty mountain forests, Big Five savannas, rainforest canopies, and a vibrant cultural capital.
Volcanoes National Park
Trek to meet one of Rwanda’s habituated gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park, famed for its easy access, scenic volcanic terrain, and connection to Dian Fossey’s conservation legacy.
Akagera National Park
Experience Rwanda’s only Big Five safari in Akagera National Park, where game drives and boat safaris at Magashi Camp offer luxury and adventure.
Nyungwe National Park
A biodiverse rainforest in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe is a haven for primates and birdlife. Spot chimpanzees in the treetops or walk the famous canopy bridge for breathtaking views over this ancient forest.
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.
Top Rwanda Safari Experiences
Whether you’re dreaming of a gorilla trekking safari, a scenic Big Five adventure, or immersive hikes through rainforest trails, Rwanda offers some of Africa’s most exclusive and enriching wildlife experiences.
Gorilla Trekking
Track endangered mountain gorillas through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Permits are limited, with only eight guests allowed per group for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Watch golden monkeys leap through the forest canopy in Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates are a joy to observe.
Dian Fossey Hike
A Visit the site of the Karisoke Research Center. Learn about Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking work and her legacy in gorilla conservation.
Game Drives in Akagera National Park
Explore Rwanda’s only Big Five park. Wildlife drives and boat safaris at Magashi Camp deliver thrilling and scenic encounters.
Stay at Rwanda’s Luxury Lodges
Rest and recharge in world-class lodges like Bisate, Kwitonda, and Magashi. Enjoy comfort, design, and exceptional service in the wild.
Remarkable Local Cuisine
Indulge in gourmet Rwandan cuisine, from fine dining at luxury lodges to Kigali’s vibrant food scene.
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.