Rwanda Safaris – Africa’s Most Accessible Gorilla Trekking
Rwanda safaris offer Africa’s most accessible gorilla trekking experiences, inviting adventurers to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. With Marvel Gorilla Adventure, travelers enjoy a seamless and immersive journey into Rwanda’s pristine wilderness. Thanks to the country’s excellent infrastructure and our expert-guided tours, even the most remote gorilla habitats are easily accessible, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Most Popular Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Safaris
5 Days Rwanda Safari
Chimpanzee tracking, canopy walk, Gorilla trekking, and Golden monkey trekking in the two national parks.
Double Gorilla Trekking
Double Gorilla trekking offers an opportunity to meet the gorillas 2 times on different days
4 Days Akagera Safari
Akagera National Park is home to the Big Five; Buffaloes, Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, and Elephants
3 Days Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla Trekking Experirnce in Volcanoes National Park only park with mountain gorillas
7 Days Best Of Rwanda
Chimpanzee tracking and Gorilla trekking safari Experience. 1-week trip to Rwanda will unveil Rwanda’s Big 5.
4 Days Rwanda Gorillas
Explore Volcanoes National Park on this 4 days Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure. Witness majestic mountain gorillas up close.
4 Days Gorilla & Safari
Experience the best of Rwanda in 4 days! Trek majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and enjoy a wildlife safari in Akagera National Park.
1 Days Gorilla Trek
A one day gorilla trekking tour from Kigali, the most affordable and convenient way to witness Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Tailor-Made Rwanda Safari Tours
Home to the endangered mountain gorillas, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable wildlife experience. These magnificent creatures thrive in the misty highlands, and Marvel Gorilla Adventure will craft a personalized safari tailored to your interests and activity level, ensuring you witness these incredible primates up close while contributing to Rwanda’s ecotourism success story.
Beyond gorilla trekking, Rwanda’s diverse landscapes offer even more adventures. Venture into Nyungwe Forest to track wild chimpanzees, or explore Akagera National Park’s vast savannas and serene lakes, home to a stunning variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rare bird species.
Rwanda safaris offer breathtaking encounters with mountain gorillas and diverse wildlife, creating lifelong memories for nature lovers and adventurers. Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda is home to the spectacular Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can experience the rare privilege of observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With Marvel Gorilla Adventure, travelers embark on expertly guided treks through lush forests and rolling hills, encountering not only gorillas but also golden monkeys, exotic birds, and other unique species. Each trek is thoughtfully designed to ensure a respectful and immersive wildlife experience, fostering a deep connection with nature.
Beyond gorilla trekking, Rwanda safaris provide a rich and diverse wildlife adventure. Akagera National Park’s vast savannahs and scenic lakes offer thrilling game drives, where visitors can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and an array of birdlife. Meanwhile, Nyungwe Forest is a paradise for primate lovers and birdwatchers, featuring an extensive canopy walk and scenic hiking trails.
At Marvel Gorilla Adventure, we are committed to sustainable tourism and conservation, ensuring that every safari not only captivates and educates but also contributes to preserving Rwanda’s natural heritage for future generations. Let us craft your perfect Rwanda safari, blending adventure, wildlife, and cultural immersion into an unforgettable journey!
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda – A Life-Changing Adventure
A journey to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking is an experience that will leave you speechless—and turn you into a storyteller. Witnessing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a breathtaking encounter, making Rwanda one of the top destinations for primate lovers. Beyond gorillas, the park is also home to golden monkeys and other fascinating wildlife, attracting travelers eager to explore its rich biodiversity.
Mountain gorillas are found only in three countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Rwanda, they reside in Volcanoes National Park, just a 2-hour, 18-minute drive from Kigali, making it the most accessible gorilla trekking destination in Africa.
Established in 1925, Volcanoes National Park is the oldest national park on the African continent, originally gazetted to protect mountain gorillas from poaching. Covering 160 square kilometers of rainforest, the park encompasses five of the eight Virunga Mountains: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. It shares borders with Virunga National Park in the DRC and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
Volcanoes National Park is not only a sanctuary for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys but also the legendary research site of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey. A visit here offers an extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature, witness incredible wildlife, and walk in the footsteps of conservation history.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours
Gorilla Families in Rwanda
Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest is an exhilarating experience that begins early in the morning at 5:00 AM, right after breakfast. The adventure starts with a briefing at the Uwinka headquarters, led by expert guides who provide essential insights before you set off into the jungle. Following the footprints and calls of chimpanzees, you’ll navigate through the dense forest, increasing your chances of locating these fascinating primates in a short time. Once you find them, you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe them for an hour, witnessing their behaviors and social interactions up close.
Chimpanzees, our closest relatives, share remarkable similarities with humans. They are highly intelligent, social creatures, displaying emotions, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. Watching them interact in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience.
Rwanda is home to three chimpanzee habitats: Nyungwe National Park (which includes both Nyungwe and Cyamudongo forests) and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. Nyungwe alone hosts around 400 chimpanzees, with 13 primate species in total. Two chimpanzee communities have been habituated for trekking, with about 60 individuals in Nyungwe Forest and 30 in Cyamudongo Forest.
While sightings are never guaranteed, Nyungwe Forest offers so much more than just chimpanzees. The park is teeming with other primates, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, Rwenzori colobus, and vervet monkeys, along with a diverse range of bird and plant species. A trek through this ancient rainforest is a deep dive into Rwanda’s incredible biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Big Five Safaris in Rwanda
Wilderness safaris in Rwanda offer an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife. While Rwanda is best known for its primates, it also boasts remarkable savannah wildlife, particularly in the scenic Akagera National Park, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts.
Nestled in the east of the country, Akagera National Park features breathtaking savannah plains, rolling hills, deep valleys, and lush papyrus swamps dotted with shimmering lakes. This diverse terrain supports a wide array of wildlife, including giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras, buffaloes, and hippos, offering an exciting safari experience.
Beyond the savannah, Rwanda is also home to an impressive range of primates. With 13 different primate species, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the remarkable Rwenzori colobus monkeys, Rwanda offers one of the most diverse primate-watching experiences in Africa. The Rwenzori colobus troops in Nyungwe Forest can number up to 400 individuals—the largest recorded primate groups on the continent.
Whether tracking the Big Five in Akagera or exploring Rwanda’s lush rainforests in search of primates, a wilderness safari with Marvel Gorilla Adventure promises an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most unique and breathtaking landscapes.
3 Days Akagera Safari
Experience the thrill of a 3 days Akagera safari! Witness breathtaking wildlife, stunning savannah landscapes, and unforgettable game drives in Rwanda’s only Big Five park.
5 Days Safari and Gorilla
A 5 days adventure combining thrilling wildlife safaris and an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience! Explore the savannah and volcanoes of Rwanda
4 Days Rwanda Safari
Experience the best of Rwanda’s wilderness on a 4-day Akagera Safari! Enjoy thrilling game drives, scenic boat cruises, and unforgettable Big Five encounters
2 Days Big five safari
Book a thrilling 2 days Big Five safari in Akagera National Park! Experience exciting game drives in savannah and spot Rwanda’s iconic wildlife in just two unforgettable days
Golden Monkey Trekking – A Unique Primate Adventure in Rwanda
Have you ever felt the thrill of getting lost in the right direction? That’s exactly what golden monkey trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park feels like—a journey of discovery, adventure, and awe-inspiring encounters with one of nature’s most fascinating primates.
Golden monkey trekking involves hiking through the dense jungles of Volcanoes National Park in search of playful golden monkey families. This rare and exciting activity is mainly conducted in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Rwanda standing out as a prime destination due to its well-protected habitats and easy accessibility.
What Makes Golden Monkeys Special?
Golden monkeys are an endangered species known for their striking golden-orange fur, curious nature, and agile movements through the bamboo forests. They are highly social and live in large troops, making their playful interactions a delight to watch.
In Rwanda, golden monkey trekking takes place in two key locations:
- Sabyinyo Group – This is the largest golden monkey troop, with approximately 80 to 100 individuals, making it the most popular and frequently visited group. Tourists love the lively energy of these monkeys as they leap from branch to branch.
- Volcanoes Mountain Group – This group is slightly smaller and tends to attract fewer visitors, offering a more intimate and immersive experience with these beautiful primates.
A golden monkey trekking experience with Marvel Gorilla Adventure is a fantastic addition to any Rwanda safari, complementing gorilla trekking and other wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a primate enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or simply an adventurer at heart, this trek promises a truly unforgettable encounter with Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.
2 Days Golden Monkey Trekking
2 days Golden Monkey trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park! Hike through the bamboo forests and witness these playful primates in their natural habitat.
3 Days Gorilla Golden Monkey
Experience the best of Rwanda’s primates on a 3 days adventure! Trek to see majestic mountain gorillas and playful golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park.
4 Days Gorilla Golden Monkey
Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s wildlife and culture on this 4-day adventure! to see mountain gorillas, encounter playful golden monkeys, and rich culture
3 Days Golden Monkey & Bisoke
Embark on a thrilling 3 days adventure in Volcanoes National Park! Trek to see playful golden monkeys and conquer the scenic Mount Bisoke for breathtaking crater lake views.
Cultural Tours in Rwanda
Exploring Rwanda’s cultural heritage offers a profound understanding of the people who call the “Land of a Thousand Hills” home. Cultural tours provide an opportunity to visit significant historical sites, engage with local communities, and experience the country’s rich traditions firsthand.
One of the most important cultural landmarks is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which features three powerful exhibitions.
Beyond Kigali, Rwanda’s museums, cultural villages, and local communities offer immersive experiences, from traditional dance performances to learning about Rwandan crafts, music, and daily life. Whether visiting Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park or exploring historical museums, a cultural tour with Marvel Gorilla Adventure provides a meaningful connection to Rwanda’s past and present.
7 Days Experience Rwanda
Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible wildlife on this 7-day adventure. From vibrant traditions to thrilling safaris and stunning scenery, experience the heart of Africa like never before!
10 Days Unique Rwanda
Explore Rwanda like never before! Trek with mountain gorillas, spot the Big Five in Akagera, and encounter chimpanzees in Nyungwe. Dive deep into Rwanda’s rich history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and cultural experiences with the local communities. An adventure blending wildlife, culture, and history awaits!
Birding Safaris in Rwanda
With an impressive 703 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Rwanda is a paradise for birding enthusiasts. The country offers easily accessible birding locations and the chance to spot some of Africa’s most sought-after avian species.
While all four national parks provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, the top birding destinations include:
- Nyungwe Forest National Park – Home to rare species such as the Red-collared Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco, and Handsome Francolin.
- Akagera National Park – A mix of savannah and wetland birds, including the Shoebill Stork, Papyrus Gonolek, and numerous raptors.
Other notable species found in Rwanda include the Rwenzori Nightjar, Grauer’s Warbler, Blue-headed Sunbird, Shelly’s Crimsonwing, and Kungwe Apalis. Whether exploring montane forests or open savannah, a birding safari with Marvel Gorilla Adventure promises an unforgettable experience in Rwanda’s diverse ecosystems.
8 Days Rwanda Birding
Journey through Rwanda’s top birding destinations in 8 days! Spot rare bird species and explore more breathtaking landscapes.
12 Days Bird & Gorilla
Book a 12 days adventure through Rwanda’s birding paradise and encounter majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat!
3 Days Rwanda Birding
Explore Rwanda’s rich birdlife in just 3 days! From wetlands species to endemic savannas lifers, every moment is a birder’s paradise.
5 Days Birding Tour
Discover Rwanda’s vibrant birdlife, from wetlands to savannas—an unforgettable journey for every birding enthusiast
People Also Ask About Rwanda
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Cost
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park requires a gorilla permit, which costs $1,500 per person. This permit grants you an extraordinary 60-minute encounter with a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat. Securing your permit in advance is essential due to high demand, ensuring you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Is it worth the $1,500 permit?
Yes! If you’re looking for a premium, well-organized, and accessible gorilla trekking experience, Rwanda is the best choice. While Uganda offers a more budget-friendly option, Rwanda’s ease of access, conservation efforts, and breathtaking landscapes make it an incredible and worthwhile investment.
Is Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Safe?
Absolutely! Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very safe. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and park authorities prioritize visitor safety through strict regulations, experienced guides, and well-trained rangers. Additionally, gorilla tourism is a vital part of conservation efforts, contributing significantly to the local economy and community development.
Tailor-Made Rwanda Tours
Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda, where the grasslands and swamps of the east transform into rolling hills and misty mountains in the west. Explore Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, or venture into Akagera National Park for a classic Big Five safari. For an extended adventure, combine your Rwanda safari with neighboring destinations like Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, or the Republic of Congo, creating a truly immersive African experience.
Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda vs. Uganda
Choosing between gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda depends on your preferences:
- Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers easy access from Kigali (just a 2.5-hour drive), making it ideal for short trips. However, permits cost $1,500 per person.
- Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides more affordable permits ($800 per person) and a more rugged trekking experience. However, reaching Bwindi requires a longer drive or domestic flight.
Both destinations promise unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas, but the choice depends on budget, accessibility, and the kind of adventure you seek!
Best Places to Visit in Rwanda
Rwanda, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a breathtaking destination with rolling landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. Despite its painful history marked by the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has made remarkable strides in rebuilding and uniting its people. Today, it stands as one of Africa’s most welcoming and forward-thinking nations, with a strong emphasis on conservation, sustainability, and cleanliness—making it one of the tidiest countries on the continent.
Though small in size, Rwanda offers an incredible variety of wildlife and adventure experiences. From the misty montane rainforests of Volcanoes National Park—home to the endangered mountain gorillas—to the golden savannahs of Akagera National Park, teeming with the Big Five, this compact country is an explorer’s paradise. One of Rwanda’s biggest advantages is its ease of travel; almost all major attractions are within a 4-hour drive from Kigali, making it ideal for an immersive safari experience without long travel times.
At Marvel Gorilla Adventure, we invite you to discover Rwanda’s untamed beauty, vibrant culture, and extraordinary wildlife. Whether you dream of trekking through ancient forests in search of gorillas, spotting lions on the savannah, or learning about Rwanda’s inspiring transformation, this is a country that promises adventure at every turn.
Best Places To Visit in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Located in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is a breathtaking wilderness that forms part of the Virunga Conservation Area, bordering Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This lush rainforest protects five of the nine Virunga Volcanoes and is home to the world’s last remaining endangered mountain gorillas.
The park’s towering peaks, including Karisimbi (4,507m), create a dramatic backdrop for unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures, golden monkey tracking, and cultural experiences. At Marvel Gorilla Adventure, we invite you to explore this iconic destination, where misty forests and volcanic landscapes offer an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Akagera National Park
Once on the brink of collapse, Akagera National Park has made an extraordinary recovery. Devastated by the aftermath of the 1994 genocide, the park was nearly lost until a transformative partnership between African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in 2010 set it on a new path.
Thanks to strong conservation efforts and community engagement, poaching was nearly eradicated within five years, paving the way for the reintroduction of lions (2015), black rhinos (2017), and white rhinos (2021). Today, Akagera is Rwanda’s only Big Five safari park, with wildlife numbers rising from 5,000 in 2010 to over 12,000.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Spanning 1,019 km², Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and Rwanda’s largest forest reserve. This lush Afromontane forest is a vital water source for Rwanda, feeding both the Nile and Congo Rivers—the world’s two largest rivers.
Home to 85 mammal species, over 1,100 plant varieties, and 13 primate species including chimpanzees, Ruwenzori black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, Nyungwe is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts.
Once threatened by poaching and illegal activities, Nyungwe is now on the path to recovery thanks to a 20-year management partnership between African Parks and the Rwandan government, launched in 2020.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
While Volcanoes, Akagera, and Nyungwe are among Rwanda’s most famous national parks, Gishwati-Mukura National Park remains a hidden gem. Located in the Kivu Belt region of northwest Rwanda, this park encompasses two distinct forests: Gishwati Forest and Mukura Forest, separated by a 30-mile buffer zone.
Unlike traditional parks, Gishwati-Mukura is a restoration project aimed at reversing one of Central Africa’s worst cases of environmental degradation. Once threatened by deforestation, land degradation, and human activity, the park now serves as a symbol of successful conservation.
Lake Kivu
Set against the backdrop of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, Lake Kivu offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and vibrant local culture, this hidden gem is an ideal destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
At Marvel Gorilla Adventure, we invite you to explore Lake Kivu’s natural beauty through kayaking, boat cruises, and exhilarating water activities, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of lakeside communities, where you can engage with local traditions and discover the essence of Rwanda’s people.
Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an action-packed experience, Lake Kivu offers an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. Join us at Marvel Gorilla Adventure and let the magic of this serene lake captivate you.
Most Selling Rwanda Safaris
6 Days Rwanda Primates
Explore Rwanda’s beauty in 6 days, from unforgettable gorilla trekking to the enchanting golden monkeys. A primate adventure like no other!
5 Days Gorilla & Safari
Discover Rwanda in 5 days with thrilling gorilla trekking and a wildlife safari. Unforgettable experiences await!
10 Days Rwanda Safari
A 10 days adventure through Rwanda, from thrilling wildlife safaris to unforgettable gorilla trekking. Explore diverse landscapes and connect with nature.
9 Days Rwanda Safari Tour
A 9 days tour with a perfect mix of wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, and cultural experiences. A journey through Rwanda’s breathtaking beauty awaits!
3 Days Gorilla & Golden Monkey
Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s wilderness on a 3 days adventure with gorilla trekking and golden monkey encounters. A truly magical experience!
8 Days Rwanda Safari Tour
Experience the best of Rwanda in 8 days—gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and breathtaking landscapes. A journey you’ll never forget!
3 Days Akagera Safari
Embark on a 3 days safari through Akagera National Park, where stunning wildlife and scenic landscapes await. A perfect escape into Rwanda’s wild side!
8 Days Rwanda & Uganda Safari
Explore the best of Rwanda and Uganda in 8 days—gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and breathtaking landscapes across two iconic countries.
2 Days Chimp & Canopy walk
Experience the thrill of chimpanzee tracking and a scenic canopy walk in just 2 days. A short yet unforgettable adventure!
4 Days Rwanda Double Gorilla
Double the adventure in 4 days with gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Two unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures!
11 Days Rwanda – Uganda Tour
Discover the best of Rwanda and Uganda in 11 days—gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and stunning landscapes across two incredible countries.
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
3 days gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, where you’ll get up close with the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
2 Days Bwindi Gorilla trek Via Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable national parkThis 2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Rwanda’s Kigali city package is ideal for those looking to experience.
2 Days Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National park is a special place every part of it is alive with; variety, interest and colour contains an extensive area of wetland one of the only two
4 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience
Gorilla habituation experience is a unique way to enjoy watching gorillas in the wild that can only be enjoyed in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
7 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
Tour to Murchison Falls , Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park & Bwindi impenetrable forest
9 Days Uganda Safari Vacation
Best of Uganda; Gorilla trekking, Murchison falls and Chimpanzee.