Rwanda: the complete safari and gorilla guide
Rwanda fits an astonishing amount into a small, well-run country: mountain gorillas, a recovering Big Five savannah park and one of Africa's oldest rainforests, all within easy reach of each other.
Rwanda Safari · Rwanda gorilla trekking · Rwanda holidays
Rwanda expertly combines mountain gorillas, recovering savannah, and ancient rainforest within a short drive of one another. As one of Africa's smallest and most efficient nations, it provides a seamless circuit for those seeking intense, diverse wildlife encounters.
Rwanda's three core destinations
| Destination | Main draw | Distance from Kigali |
|---|---|---|
| Volcanoes National Park | Mountain gorilla trekking | About 2 hours |
| Akagera National Park | Big Five savannah game drives | About 2.5 hours |
| Nyungwe Forest | Chimp trekking and canopy walkway | Further south-west, a longer transfer |
Highlights
- Volcanoes National Park and Gorillas
- Akagera: A Conservation Success
- The Ancient Nyungwe Forest
- Planning Your Route
01
Volcanoes National Park and Gorillas
Trekking here is remarkably accessible, beginning with a two-hour drive from Kigali on paved roads. You will traverse bamboo-covered slopes rather than dense jungle. Permits cost more than in Uganda, but travellers appreciate the exceptional organisation and higher-end logistics.
02
Akagera: A Conservation Success
Akagera's recovery is a genuine triumph, with lions and black rhino successfully reintroduced. Just two and a half hours from the capital, the park now offers Big Five game drives across scenic, lake-dotted savannah landscapes.
03
The Ancient Nyungwe Forest
This montane rainforest is home to chimpanzees and thirteen other primate species. The highlight for many is the canopy walkway, suspended high above the floor, offering a unique perspective on this ancient ecosystem's birdlife and flora.
04
Planning Your Route
A week allows a comfortable pace through Kigali, Akagera, and Nyungwe. For a primate-focused journey, Rwanda pairs naturally with Uganda's Bwindi Forest, allowing guests to compare different trekking environments in one trip.
Dos
- Book permits well ahead of your travel dates
- Hire a porter — it supports the local community
- Wear long sleeves, gloves and sturdy waterproof boots
- Keep the 7-metre distance from the gorillas
- Carry a rain jacket, water and snacks
Don'ts
- Don't trek if you have a cold or flu
- Don't use flash photography
- Don't eat or drink near the gorillas
- Don't stare directly into a silverback's eyes
- Don't exceed the one-hour visit
What's usually included
- Gorilla trekking permit (when booked with us)
- Ranger and tracker guides on the trek
- Lodge near the park
- Private vehicle and driver-guide
- Meals as listed
- Airport transfers
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Rwanda · standard gorilla permit | US$1,500 | Per foreign visitor, per trek. Resident and promotional eligibility differs; accommodation, transfers and porter hire are separate.Rwanda Development Board booking portal |
| Uganda · low-season gorilla permit | US$600 | Foreign non-resident, April, May or November. UWA announcement dated 26 February 2026; these discounted permits cannot be rescheduled.Uganda Wildlife Authority tariff announcement |
| Uganda · standard gorilla permit from 2027 | US$800 | Foreign non-resident, per trek. The cited revised tariff takes effect 1 January 2027; confirm the applicable rate for earlier travel.Uganda Wildlife Authority tariff announcement |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
Why settle for a brochure safari
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- Private guide and vehicle
- Named stays and itemised costs
- Availability checked before confirmation
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Frequently asked questions
How many days should I plan for Rwanda?
Five to seven days is ideal. Gorilla trekking can be done in three, but Akagera and Nyungwe merit the extra time.
Is Rwanda safe to travel in?
Yes, with a reputable operator. Always follow guide instructions regarding wildlife and check current travel advice. Ensure your insurance covers remote trekking.
Rwanda or Uganda for gorillas?
Rwanda offers ease and shorter treks. Uganda provides lower permit costs. The choice depends on your budget and mobility.