Rwanda
The Land of a Thousand Hills
Where Mountain Gorillas Meet African Wilderness
June–September — Drier conditions, excellent trekking and strong safari demand.
June–September — Generally favourable for gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park and Rwanda's scenic highlands.
Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees and Akagera's savannah wildlife.
- Overview
Why Visit Rwanda
Rwanda is a compact East African destination best known for mountain gorilla trekking, but it also offers chimpanzees, golden monkeys, savannah wildlife, rainforest, lakes and cultural experiences.
Its three main wildlife destinations provide distinctly different experiences: Volcanoes National Park for gorillas, Nyungwe for rainforest and primates, and Akagera for classic savannah safari.
- Expert Advice
If gorillas are your priority, start with Volcanoes. Add Akagera for savannah wildlife or Nyungwe if primates and rainforest are more important to you.
- Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Rwanda
June – September
(Peak Season)
Best Overall
December – February
(Dry Season)
Great Option
March – May & October – November (Dry Season)
Budget Friendly
Wildlife Highlights
Mountain Gorillas
Rwanda's signature wildlife experience. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the country's strongest reason for many international visitors.
Chimpanzees
Nyungwe provides one of Rwanda's main chimpanzee trekking experiences, alongside a rich collection of other forest primates.
Golden Monkeys
Particularly associated with the Virunga forests and commonly combined with gorilla trekking.
Akagera Wildlife
The park offers opportunities to see elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra, antelope and other savannah wildlife. Akagera is also home to the Big Five.
Birdlife
Rwanda's forests, wetlands and savannah support substantial bird diversity, making the country particularly interesting for birders.
Lions
Akagera offers opportunities to encounter lions during game drives across its savannah ecosystem.
Elephants
African elephants are among Akagera's impressive large mammals and may be encountered during game drives.
Giraffes & Zebras
These classic plains animals contribute to Akagera's traditional African safari experience.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda's flagship wildlife experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Golden Monkey Trekking
A shorter primate-focused experience in the Virunga region.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Explore Nyungwe's rainforest in search of chimpanzees and other primates.
Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Experience Nyungwe's rainforest from above.
Akagera Game Drives
Experience Rwanda's savannah wildlife, including Big Five species.
Lake Kivu
Add relaxation, scenery and lakeside experiences to a wildlife itinerary.
Kigali City Experience
Discover Rwanda's capital, culture, food and history.
Getting There
By Air
Most international travellers enter through Kigali International Airport.
By Road
Rwanda is well connected by road to Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, making it useful as part of a wider East African itinerary.
Uganda → Rwanda
A natural combination for travellers interested in gorillas, chimpanzees and savannah wildlife.
Kenya/Tanzania → Rwanda
Usually more practical by air than overland when time is limited.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Rwanda
Pros of Visiting Rwanda
Things to Consider
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Currency
Rwanda uses the Rwandan Franc (RWF), while major hotels and tourism businesses may accept international payment methods.
Language
Kinyarwanda is the national language, while English and French are also widely used in tourism and business.
Electricity
Rwanda generally uses Type C and Type J electrical sockets, so international travellers should carry a suitable adapter.
Mobile & Internet
Mobile coverage and internet access are generally good in cities, but connectivity can become limited in remote safari and forest areas.
Time Zone
Rwanda operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC+2, throughout the year.
SAFETY & HEALTH
Wildlife Safety
Always follow your safari guide's instructions and maintain safe distances from wildlife during game drives and walking experiences.
Gorilla Trekking
Prepare for steep, muddy and uneven terrain, particularly during wet conditions in Volcanoes National Park.
Yellow Fever
Travellers arriving from yellow-fever-risk countries may need proof of vaccination before entering Rwanda.
Malaria Prevention
Discuss appropriate malaria prevention and routine vaccinations with a qualified travel-health professional before departure.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended, particularly for trekking, remote safari areas and unexpected medical or travel disruptions.