Rwanda Safari Tours, Chimpanzee Trekking & Adventure Trip Cost

Rwanda Safaris to Akagera National Park

Taking Wild Rwanda safaris to Akagera National Park will add a game viewing experience to your trip.

Akagera National Park Rwanda is located in the northeastern part of Rwanda, bordering Tanzania.The distance from Kigali to Akagera National Park is approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on how you drive.

The park creates a remarkable ecosystem shaped by its unique flora and fauna and offers the best safari in Rwanda.

Akagera Park Rwanda derives its name from the Kagera River, which is the main water source for the Rwanda safari park, despite being dotted with small lakes and various swamps.

The wildlife Rwanda has in the park; that you will likely encounter during your Rwanda wildlife safari include the buffalo, civets, elands, Masai giraffes, topis, several types of antelopes, serval cats, hyenas, bush babies, and leopards, although leopards are rarely sighted. Night game drives can also be conducted in the park, offering a close experience with nocturnal wildlife.

Akagera Rwanda is also a birding paradise, making it one of the top tourist destinations for bird-watching in Rwanda, with over 520 species recorded.

The best bird-watching Rwanda safari tours are experience from here; because of the various lakes and river in the park.

Some of the birds found in the park include the marabou stork, African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, elusive shoebill stork, crested barbet, Ross’s turaco, lilac-breasted roller, swamp flycatcher, black-headed weaver, African jacana, white-browed coucal, fork-tailed drongo, saddle-billed stork, African grey hornbill, long-crested eagle, white-faced whistling duck, woodland kingfisher, palm-nut vulture, cattle egret, little bee-eater, helmeted guinea fowl, grey-crowned crested crane, goliath heron, bare-faced go-away-bird, and spur-winged goose, among others.

Fishing, while on Rwanda tours can also be done at Lake Shakani, where you might have the chance to spot hippos. The best time for fishing safaris in Rwanda is during the fishing tournaments, where you can enjoy the activity with local and international anglers. The best part about fishing in the lake is that you can eat what you catch.

You can take a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where its shores are filled with wildlife, water birds, and hippos close to your boat. You will also get to enjoy scenic views of cultivated hills while on the lake.

Nature-guided walks can also be done in the park, allowing you to come close to wildlife and take in superb views.

You can also experience fishing safaris and boat safaris while at the park, ensuring a memorable experience.

Ensure to stay at lodges like Magashi Camp (highly recommended for luxury safari Rwanda experiences), Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp (Highly recommended for Eco safaris) and Mantis Akagera Game Lodge will add a spice to your trip.

The most commonly booked Akagera package is a 3-Day Wildlife from Kigali Safari Package but we highly recommend that you book the primate safaris Rwanda has to offer.

Another popular Rwanda safari Akagera offers is the 2-Day package.

This means combining your wildlife safari tours in Rwanda with primate trekking for a more rewarding experience.

Please also note that the average wildlife safari Rwanda prices might be higher compared to countries like Uganda. You can inquire with us here if you want to know the approximate Rwanda safari cost of your holiday.

However, the wildlife safari experience in Rwanda not close to the Tanzania or Kenya experiences.

Booking a Rwanda Tanzania safari combining gorillas with wildlife safaris in Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve is a common trend.

Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda

Mountain gorilla trekking is an incredible activity. In Rwanda, you can only visit mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

It is the most commonly mentioned activity in Rwanda tour packages; so if you’re searching for holidays to Rwanda gorillas, do not be surprised to see it mentioned.

Compared to other safari to Rwanda like game viewing, Rwanda gorilla trekking is entirely done on foot through a lush forest, with the duration depending on your pace and the mobility of the gorillas. The trek is conducted under the guidance of an expert park ranger.

Gorillas are humans’ closest relatives, sharing over 95% of human DNA. Over 1,060 individuals call Africa home, with about a quarter of them residing in Rwanda.

The “Gorilla beringei,” commonly known as mountain gorillas, were discovered by Von Beringe.

Mountain gorillas live in groups called troops, led by a dominant alpha male known as a silverback. The silverback’s role is to offer security, settle disputes, provide direction, and protect its family in case of an attack or challenge.

Every night, mountain gorillas rest in a different location, a behavior that has been ingrained in their nature.

Mountain gorillas are vegetarians, depending on bamboo shoots, leaves, fruits, stems, and roots for food. They actively climb trees and feed in the early morning or late hours of the day.

The heaviest adult silverback can weigh up to 267 kg, stand at 5 feet tall, and have a chest span of about 1.98 meters. They have shorter hair on their bodies compared to other gorillas.

Adult female gorillas play a significant role in the troop. They are the majority and are responsible for feeding the youngsters, training them, and helping to build their daily nests.

The reason adult male gorillas are called silverbacks is due to the silver lining on their back, which develops with age and commands respect.

The most exciting aspect of mountain gorillas is not only their playful nature but also the 22+ sounds they make in response to various situations, especially during celebrations or social interactions.

Gorillas are highly vulnerable to human illnesses such as the flu, cough, and cold. They are shy and gentle, but they can charge by thumping their chest, tearing leaves, jumping, hooting, standing on their feet, and rotating around their territory when they feel attacked or threatened.

Mountain gorilla trekking was made possible in part by Dian Fossey, an American primatologist who devoted her entire life and resources to the conservation and study of these apes when they were on the verge of extinction.

Today, walking with gorillas in Rwanda starts early in the morning at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. Registration and briefing by the park rangers begin at 8:00 am local time.

During the briefing, the park rangers provide information about the park’s history, the gorillas, and the different families in the jungle before assigning you a gorilla family to trek.

The gorilla safari Rwanda offers can last from one to eight hours, including a maximum of one hour spent closely observing these apes, taking photos, and asking any questions you may have.

After trekking the gorillas on a Rwanda mountain gorilla tour, you will receive your respective certificates and depart from the park headquarters, marking the end of your experience.

To ensure the well-being of the Rwanda gorillas, you are restricted from:

• Littering in the park environment
• Using camera flash while taking photos
• Approaching the gorillas closer than 7-8 meters
• Making loud noises, as this disturbs the gorillas
• Altering the jungle environment in any way
• Looking directly into the eyes of the gorillas, as it is interpreted as a challenge to them

Rwanda gorilla permits are available for USD 1,500 per person and are only available for those aged 15 years and above. A permit entitles you to one encounter.

The good news is that even individuals with mobility challenges can trek gorillas using Sedan-seat chairs or bamboo stretchers.

When you meet the Rwanda gorillas, it’s good to pay your respects to Dian Fossey by visiting her grave at the Karisoke Research Center. This hike costs about $85 per person.

Fossey was a devoted gorilla lover who spent her entire life and resources ensuring the safety and happiness of mountain gorillas. She was tragically murdered by poachers in her cabin in 1985.

Her grave is surrounded by the graves of other gorillas whose lives were lost to either poaching or disease.

Staying in lodges like Bisate Lodge, One&only Gorillas Nest and Wilderness Sabyinyo will add more spark to your trip.

Birding Safaris in Rwanda

Birding in Rwanda is a highly enjoyable activity. Bird-watching is primarily carried out in swamps, mountains, rivers, and various protected areas.

Experienced guides are available to help you search for different bird species of your choice, learn about their uniqueness, and enhance your experience.

Birding is one of the most affordable and enjoyable activities to do while on safari. Unfortunately, not many people give it a try.

If you have the opportunity, make sure to go birding in Rwanda. It’s an incredible experience!

Cultural Safaris in Rwanda

Rwanda is rich in culture, and for that reason, a visit to one of Rwanda’s cultural sites is a must! :-)

Some of these cultural sites include the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Center and the King’s Palace in Nyanza. These two places, among many others, offer truly exciting cultural storytelling moments, traditional dances, cuisines, and much more.

As a visitor, make an effort to actively participate in the activities—whether by purchasing souvenirs, singing with the locals, or dancing to traditional songs. Cultural settings reveal the Rwandese way of life and how people carry out their daily chores.

When you immerse yourself in the Rwandan culture, it will be easier for you to relate to the people of Rwanda.

Hiking Safaris in Rwanda

Are you thinking of stretching your legs to reach a mountain summit or experiencing the thrill of exploring dark ancient caves? A safari in Rwanda has you covered.

One of the most popular caves for exploration is the Musanze Cave, located about 2 km from Volcanoes National Park.

The exploration lasts approximately one hour, during which you will see several large bats in the darkness.

For hiking, you can take on some of the Virunga Mountains, such as Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.

Golden Monkey Tours in Rwanda

Golden Monkey trekking is one of the most exciting Rwanda trekking activities, carried out in Volcanoes National Park. Golden monkeys are a rare species, known for their glittering golden fur, sweet sounds, and small bodies.

Visitors love them for their swift movements and playful nature, which captivate both viewers and photographers, demanding full attention when in their territory. Most of their time is spent on tree branches, where they feed on leaves, stems, and bamboo shoots.

No special skills are required to locate these golden monkeys in Rwanda. All you need is passion, determination, and fitness. You can also encounter golden monkeys in East Africa at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Don’t miss out!

Driving Times Between Kigali and Rwanda National Parks

Rwanda Tours & Travel Holidays

Rwanda is one of the smallest countries in East Africa, defined by rolling hills spread across the entire country.

It has a cool climate, is secure and safe, and boasts a vast range of biodiversity, happy people, and numerous cultures. Kigali, the capital city, is one of the most modern cities on the continent, with excellent security, bustling streets, and modern accommodation facilities. A vacation to Rwanda often revolves around primates, with chimpanzee trekking being a major highlight.

Other attractions you will not want to miss in Rwanda include the rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, Africa’s Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, Cape buffalo, and leopards) in Akagera National Park, the Genocide Memorial sites, unique bird species, and the beautiful beaches along the shoreline of Lake Kivu, the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda.

Visitors to Rwanda can communicate in Kiswahili, English, and French, among other languages. Two national parks in Rwanda host the rare endangered chimpanzees, both of which are very accessible and offer over a 98% chance of sightings.

About Chimpanzee Trekking in Africa

Chimpanzees are found in East, West, and Central African countries. They are great apes, sharing over 98.7% of human-like genes and characteristics, making them man’s closest living relatives.

Chimps are social creatures that live in communities of about eight individuals, led by an alpha male and adult females. They eat, play, and sleep together in nests.

Young chimps are groomed by their mothers from childhood and taught how to trap ants, eat, and bond. Chimps help each other remove dirt and ticks and typically walk on four legs, a behavior known as “knuckle-walking.”

They use leaves as sponges to collect drinking water, sticks as forks, grass for trapping ants, and stones to smash nuts.

Chimps are primarily vegetarians, feeding on fruits, stems, nuts, and leaves, but they also consume insects, meat, and eggs. Their bodies are covered in hair, with arms that extend beyond their knees.

The skin on their palms, ears, and the soles of their feet is hairless. Chimps spend most of their time on the ground and the rest on tree branches—an exciting creature to encounter.

About Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

Trekkers are expected to be on time. Those trekking in the morning must be at the park headquarters by 7:00 am local time, while those trekking in the afternoon must be at the trailhead by 2:00 pm local time.

Document verification and briefing take about 30 minutes, while the tracking exercise can last from 1 to 5 hours, depending on the individual’s tracking speed.

Upon locating the chimpanzees, trekkers are given a maximum of one hour to take photos, observe the creatures feed, play, or build nests for the night.

During the briefing, park rangers explain the dos and don’ts of chimpanzee trekking, including the following:

• Wash your hands before entering the park.
• Wear a mask to avoid transmitting illnesses.
• Do not imitate the sounds of the chimps.
• Stay at least 8 meters away from the chimps.
• Speak in a low tone to avoid disturbing the creatures in their natural habitat.
• Do not smoke.
• Do not feed the chimpanzees unless permitted.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Do not take photos using flashlights.
• Follow instructions from the guides at all times.

Chimpanzee trekking tour destinations in Rwanda

There are two chimpanzee trekking destinations in Rwanda:

Nyungwe National Park Tours in Rwanda

With calm, playful, and attractive chimpanzees, Nyungwe National Park is one of the most visited parks in Rwanda, offering a sanctuary to over 13 unique primate species.

It has two chimpanzee groups available for trekking: one in the Cyamudongo region and the other in the Uwinka sector. Nyungwe National Park is situated in the southwestern part of Rwanda, neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cyangugu town, the west of Mount Bigugu, Lake Kivu (the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda), and Burundi to the south.

Trekking typically starts early in the morning, from 7:00 am, with a pre-trekking briefing, followed by the search through different regions of the park. It is exciting to find the chimps feeding, playing, or resting.

The park gates open at 6:00 am and close at 6:00 pm.

Foreign non-residents pay $250 (including park entry fees) to track chimpanzees at this park.

The driving distance from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park is approximately 7 hours.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park Tours in Rwanda

Gishwati-Mukura National Park, established in 2015, is the newest and smallest park in Rwanda, covering 35 sq km of land.

It is located in the western part of Rwanda and has a significant population of chimpanzees, along with other primates, birds, reptiles, and mammals.

The park consists of two forests: Mukura and Gishwati. Interestingly, the park is very calm, less crowded, and enjoys cool weather.

The best time for trekking is always in the morning when the chimps are lively, searching for food and active.

Why There Is a Charge for Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures in Rwanda

Primates must be protected, park rangers compensated, and the communities around the parks supported.

Chimpanzee trekking permits can be purchased a few days before the trekking activity or months in advance.

The permits can be acquired either at the park headquarters or through a travel operator in the country.

Note that the cost of the permits is separate from accommodation, transportation, or any other charges before, during, or after the trek.

Rwanda Chimpanzee Trekking Packing List

Only essential items should be packed for the trip to avoid extra costs or inconveniences. Here’s what you need to bring:

• Documents: Yellow fever vaccination certificate, visa, passport, medical insurance, trekking permit, and national ID (for locals).
• Gadgets: A phone for communication, a professional camera for photos, binoculars for distant views, extra storage cards, a power bank, torches for light, and other necessary gadgets.
• Garments: Long-sleeved shirts for protection, gloves, trousers, stockings, waterproof coat, rainproof hiking boots, a hat for sun protection, warm clothes and jackets in case of rain, sanitary towels for women, and other essential items.
• Other Essentials: Insect repellent for protection in the forest, a first aid kit for emergencies, and a water bottle for hydration during the trek.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda and Trek Chimpanzees

Chimpanzee trekking is more enjoyable when done during the most comfortable season of the year. While chimps are present in the parks all year, weather conditions play a significant role in the trekking experience. Here are some recommended months for your visit:

• June to October: This is the ideal period for chimp trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda. It is the peak travel season, with little or no rain. The ground is not muddy or slippery, making trekking easier and sightings clearer due to a less dense jungle.
• November and March to May: This is the rainy season, with muddy grounds and cold weather, which may be challenging for some travelers. However, it is an ideal time for budget travelers due to discounts on accommodation and other services around the parks.
• December to March: This is another dry season, making it an excellent time for chimpanzee trekking. The grounds are firm, with fewer inconveniences, and the environment is conducive.

With unforgettable sounds, an exciting character, and an appealing appearance, chimpanzee trekking is one of the most exciting and engaging activities on Earth.

It is done on foot through different regions of the jungle, in search of the sight and sound of chimpanzees.

There is no specific route or path created, nor do chimpanzees stay in one place. The trekking exercise is most often done in the morning hours when the chimpanzees have just risen to face the day, find food, or play.

The other optimal time is in the afternoon when they are building their nests, feeding, or resting. This experience is not only magical but also unforgettable.

Uganda and Rwanda host a large population of chimpanzees, residing in vast tropical forests, alongside several other primates, notably baboons, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and many more.

The forests are also home to rare bird species, forest mammals, reptiles, and much more.

Different chimpanzee trekking destinations offer a range of accommodation facilities, from budget to Rwanda luxury safari lodges, camps, and homesteads in and around the parks.

However, It is advisable to book accommodation in advance.

Uganda and Rwanda have a high concentration of chimpanzees on the continent. If you are aged 15 years and above, feel free to reconnect with your primate cousins—we are here for you!

Popular Rwanda Safari & Tour FAQs

Here are 30 popular Rwanda safari and tour FAQs that should help you plan your trip even better:

1. Where is Akagera National Park located? Akagera National Park is located in northeastern Rwanda, bordering Tanzania. Visiting Akagera National Park from Kigali only takes a short drive (approximately 2.5 – 3.5 hours depending on how you drive.)
2. What is the main water source for Akagera National Park? The Kagera River is the main water source for Akagera National Park.
3. What wildlife can be found in Akagera National Park? Wildlife includes buffalo, lions, giraffes, antelopes, civets, elands, hyenas, leopards, and more. These are the common animals that you will visit on your Rwanda wildlife tours.
4. Can night game drives be conducted in Akagera National Park? Yes, night game drives offer a close experience with nocturnal wildlife. Try to include it during your Rwanda safari booking if possible.
5. Is Akagera National Park a good birding destination? Yes, Akagera National Park is a birding paradise with over 520 bird species. A Rwanda safari holiday that includes bird-watching is an amazing one.
6. What are some bird species found in Akagera National Park? Bird species include the marabou stork, African fish eagle, papyrus gonolek, and shoebill stork.
7. Can I go fishing in Akagera National Park? Yes, fishing can be done at Lake Shakani, especially during fishing tournaments. The Akagera National Park Kigali distance is not so long; making it possible to drive to Akagera, fish and return to Kigali.
8. What wildlife might I spot during a boat cruise on Lake Ihema? You might see water birds, hippos, and other wildlife along the shores. The Lake Ihema boat trip is a common inclusion on most Rwanda safari packages.
9. Are nature-guided walks available in Akagera National Park? Yes, nature-guided walks offer close wildlife encounters and scenic views.
10. Where can I go for a Rwanda gorilla tour? A Rwanda gorilla tour can only be done in Volcanoes National Park. This is the only place you will visit gorillas in Rwanda.
11. How long does a Rwanda gorilla trek take? It can last from one to eight hours, depending on your pace and the gorillas’ movements.
12. How are gorilla trekking permits priced in Rwanda? Gorilla permits are available for USD 1,500 per person. Booking a luxury Rwanda gorilla safari (commonly referred to as golden Rwanda safaris) is recommended for an even better experience.
13. How close can you get to the Rwanda mountain gorillas during trekking? Visitors must maintain a distance of 7-8 meters from the gorillas.
14. Why are adult male gorillas called silverbacks? They are called silverbacks due to the silver fur that develops on their backs as they age.
15. What precautions should be taken during gorilla trekking? Avoid using flash photography, making loud noises, and looking directly into the gorillas’ eyes.
16. Who made mountain gorilla conservation possible? Dian Fossey, an American primatologist, played a significant role in mountain gorilla conservation.
17. Can individuals with mobility challenges trek gorillas in Rwanda? Yes, they can use Sedan-seat chairs or bamboo stretchers for the trek.
18. Where is Dian Fossey’s grave located? Her grave is located at the Karisoke Research Center, which can be visited with a hike.
19. What makes golden monkey trekking exciting? Golden monkeys have swift movements, a playful nature, and glittering golden fur.
20. Where can you trek golden monkeys in Rwanda? Golden monkey trekking is available in Volcanoes National Park.
21. Do I need special skills to trek golden monkeys? No special skills are required—just passion, determination, and fitness.
22. What activities can be done on a Rwanda cultural safari? Visitors can participate in storytelling, traditional dances, and cuisine at cultural sites.
23. What are popular cultural sites in Rwanda? The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Center and the King’s Palace in Nyanza are popular cultural sites.
24. What should visitors do during cultural activities? Visitors can buy souvenirs, sing with locals, and dance to traditional songs.
25. Where can I go hiking in Rwanda? Hiking is available in the Virunga Mountains, such as Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. You can also combined hiking tours in Rwanda and gorillas trekking for a more comprehensive experience.
26. What is the Musanze Cave known for? The Musanze Cave, located near Volcanoes National Park, is known for its large bats. It is not often included in most safaris and tours Rwanda offers.
27. What are the best months for chimpanzee safari holidays to Rwanda? The best months for safari holidays to Rwanda are June to October, during the dry season. The same applies whether you want to trek Rwanda gorillas, view chimpanzees, view wildlife in Akagera, watch birds and more.
28. Where can I go chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda? Chimpanzee trekking is available in Nyungwe National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. However, the best luxury Rwanda holidays are experienced in Nyungwe.
29. How much does it cost to trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park? Foreign non-residents pay $250 (including park entry fees) to track chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park.
30. What items should I pack for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda? Pack essentials like a trekking permit, camera, rainproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, and water.