Experience Rwanda

Iconic wildlife species

Rwanda's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism has played a crucial role in the protection of its wildlife. Conservation efforts not only focus on iconic species but also on preserving the overall biodiversity of the country's national parks and protected areas.

Visitors to Rwanda have the opportunity to experience the country's rich natural heritage while contributing to conservation initiatives through responsible tourism practices.

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SUPERLATIVE SIGHTINGS

An abundance of wildlife to be seen

From the great apes of Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe to elephants and hippos in Akagera, and virtually everything in between, Africa's animal icons are plentiful in Rwanda and add exceptional thrills to the safari experience. Here are some of the incredible creatures that make this country such a special safari destination...

Mountain gorillas

Rwanda is renowned for its mountain gorillas, and they can be found in the Volcanoes National Park in the north-west of the country. Gorilla trekking is a popular activity, allowing visitors to hike through the dense forests and observe these critically endangered great apes in their natural habitat.

Chimpanzees

Nyungwe Forest National Park in south-west Rwanda is home to a significant population of chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking is a key activity in the park, providing visitors with the opportunity to see these intelligent and social primates.

Primates

Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to a large population of black-and-white colobus monkeys. These arboreal primates are known for their striking black and white fur and are commonly seen swinging through the forest canopy. Volcanoes National Park is not only home to mountain gorillas but also to the endangered golden monkeys. Golden monkey tracking is another primate-related activity in the park, allowing visitors to witness these playful and colourful monkeys in the bamboo forests.

Zebras

Akagera National Park in Rwanda's east hosts a good population of plains zebras. The park's varied ecosystems, including grasslands and woodlands, provide suitable habitats for these iconic striped herbivores.

Rothschild's giraffes

Akagera National Park is also home to a population of the rare Rothschild's giraffe, adding to the park's diverse array of wildlife. Game drives in the park offer opportunities to spot lions, as well as other predators and plains game.

The Big Five

Akagera National Park is a conservation success story known for its diverse wildlife, including the famed Big Five - elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. The park's varied landscapes, including lakes, swamps, and savannahs, provide habitats for a range of animals. Its lion and white rhino populations were part of a hugely successful reintroduction programme.

Hippos & crocodiles

Akagera National Park features lakes and waterways, providing habitats for hippos and Nile crocodiles. Boat trips on Lake Ihema offer the chance to see these aquatic animals.

Birdlife

Rwanda has a massive bird list of more than 750 species, which for a small country of just over 26,338 square kilometres makes it home to the highest concentration of birds per square kilometre in Africa. Nyungwe Forest is one of Rwanda's top birding destinations, thanks to its unique habitat that's home to endemic species like the Rwenzori turaco. Akagera is home to more than 480 bird species that are attracted by its diverse habitats. You will see savannah birds and a range of raptors as well as many endemic species like the shoebill stork and red-faced barbet.

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