Discover Rwanda

Wilderness areas beyond compare

Rwanda is renowned the world over for its towering mountain peaks, rolling hills and lush valleys. Add to this lesser-known wetlands, lakes and open savannahs and you begin to appreciate the diverse natural heritage this scenically exceptional country offers. From its dense forests to its vast lakeshores, a safari in Rwanda is going to be filled with amazing landscapes filled with an abundance of life.

The country's national parks are the stuff of legend and many have become African icons in their own right, and much sought-after destinations committed to the preservation and protection of rare and endangered species.

Rwanda's tourism economy is thriving, helping to fuel the continued expansion and growth of these protected areas and safeguarding the wild fauna and flora that call them home for generations to come.

Rwanda's national parks

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

Why visit: Famous for mountain gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla families. The park encompasses a chain of volcanoes and lush bamboo forests. You can also hike to the tomb of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey and visit the Karisoke Research Centre. Golden monkey tracking is another primate-related activity in the park.

NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Why visit: Nyungwe is a biodiversity hotspot, featuring a dense tropical rainforest that is home to various primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. The park offers chimpanzee tracking, canopy walks, bird watching and guided hiking. The Canopy Walkway is one of the longest and highest in East Africa, providing breathtaking views of the forest.

AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

Why visit: One of East Africa's leading conservation success stories, Akagera is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five - elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. You can also see plains game like Rothschild's giraffe, zebra, and a variety of antelope species. The park also features lakes, swamps, and savannah landscapes. Game drives are a popular way to explore the park and observe its wildlife. Boat-based safaris on Lake Ihema also offer a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

GISHWATI-MUKURA NATIONAL PARK

Why visit: One of Rwanda's newest national parks, established to protect the Gishwati and Mukura forests, the park is home to various primate species and supports efforts to restore and conserve the region's biodiversity. Hiking and birding are offered, as are visits to local communities.

Rwanda's national parks

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

GISHWATI-MUKURA NATIONAL PARK

Diverse tourism offerings

Rwanda is famed for its fascinating cultures and diversity of wild fauna and flora. Click the images below to find out more about cultural hotspots and wildlife species.