Start Your Trip: +256 775904700 Email: stingersafricasafaris@gmail.com
Start Your Trip: +256 775904700 Email: stingersafricasafaris@gmail.com
Rwanda: Go Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, Kwita Izina, Kigali City Tour
Top destination for all-inclusive gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes NP, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe NP, canopy walk, yearly Kwita Izina, volcano hiking (Mount Gahinga, Muhabura, and Sabyinyo), Dian Fossey hike, Kigali city excursion, relax in Lake Kivu after your safari.
Dubbed ‘the land of a thousand hills’, Rwanda’s lush and green landscape with its diverse wildlife species is indeed the country’s star attraction. This small, landlocked nation is a major travel destination for thousands of international visitors, increasing the number over the last decade.
Rwanda is famous for its carefully managed gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking safaris in Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park, respectively. The sale of sought-after gorilla permits and partnerships with guides and porters ensure your trip makes a huge difference not only to the protection of these endangered species, which are under constant threat of poaching globally, but also to neighbouring communities.
Few would have thought that this country could bounce back from the horrifying 1994 genocide, which saw an estimated 1 million Rwandans tragically killed in cold blood by Hutu extremists (an ethnic group indigenous to the region). This unforgettable experience was one of the darkest days in modern African history, but thanks to the people of Rwanda, who longed for a peaceful society and coexistence, it has rebounded!
Rwanda is recognised today for its progressive policies just as much as its regretful history. The country is a role model in gender equality (Rwanda’s government has had the highest percentage of female members throughout the 21st century) and conservation (notably enforcing a countrywide ban on plastic bags in 2008).
Similarly, the country is a pioneer in ecotourism, which saw the creation of wetland regions, the introduction of city cycle lanes, and sustainable wildlife tours, the standout of which is to see a family of habituated mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park situated on the country’s northern border. In fact, this is where Dian Fossey, the American primatologist and the world’s leading authority on mountain gorillas, spent her days studying these endangered species before she was killed. The highly acclaimed ‘Gorillas in the Mist,’ which she published in 1983, was later made into a film.
For many visitors, it is the people and culture of Rwanda that have the strongest impact. As moving reminders of the genocide are everywhere, signs of reconciliation that show Rwanda is determined to focus on the future abound.
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What is the Climate of Rwanda?
Rwanda’s hilly landscape stretching from east to west characterizes its tropical climate. The country has four primary climatic regions: the eastern plains, the central plateau, the highlands, and the regions around Lake Kivu. The eastern plains receive an annual rainfall of between 700 mm and 1,100 mm, with the mean annual temperature oscillating between 20°C and 22°C. The central plateau region receives rainfall of between 1,100 mm and 1,300 mm, with an annual mean temperature of between 18°C and 20°C.
The highlands, including the Congo-Nile Ridge and volcanic chains of Virunga, benefit from an annual rainfall of between 1,300 mm and 1,600 mm and experience annual mean temperatures between 10°C and 18°C. Regions around Lake Kivu and the Bugarama Plains get annual rainfall of between 1,200 mm and 1,500 mm, with annual mean temperatures between 18 °C and 22 °C.
Overall, the country’s four climactic seasons are represented by the long rainy season (March to May) and the short rainy season (September to November). These seasons alternate with the long dry season (June to August) and the short dry season (December to February).
The mean annual temperature for Rwanda is 19.1 °C, with average monthly temperatures ranging between 19.5°C (September) and 18.5 °C (July). Annual precipitation is 1,170.2 mm. Rainfall is experienced throughout the year in Rwanda, with the most significant rainfall occurring from September to May.
Experiences on your Rwanda safari
1. Gorilla Trekking
Visit Rwanda and have the unique opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat as they go about their daily lives. Gorilla trekking excursions are carefully managed, with expert trackers and guides leading small groups of eight visitors up the bamboo-covered slopes. You get to spend one precious and awe-inspiring hour just a few feet away from the gentle giants. A typical gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person in Rwanda.
- Embark on year-round Rwanda gorilla trekking excursions.
- Encounter golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and numerous forest birds.
- Gain insights into Dian Fossey’s life and work
2. Chimpanzee Tracking
These social creatures are found in Nyungwe National Park as well as in smaller numbers in the Gishwati Forest. They live in extended communities and move around every day, foraging for food or occasionally hunting smaller mammals. You will be led by expert ranger guides into the forest jungles to have an up-close encounter with the chimpanzees.
3. Wildlife Viewing
A trip to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, will offer you the opportunity to experience prime wildlife viewing without a swarm of tourist vehicles disrupting your wilderness moments. All the big five and plains game, such as giraffes, impalas, zebras, and bushbucks, among others, are present there.
4. Kigali City Excursion
5. Cultural Experience
This is usually the icing on the cake of your Rwanda expedition. It brings visitors closer to the array of cultures in the areas they visit and allows them to interact. It offers the opportunity to be part of the music, dance, drama, and folktales. They can learn how to cook traditional cuisine and eat fresh, organic meals. They can also visit the Kigali Cultural Village, a traditional market space where local artisans and food vendors exhibit and trade their goods. It also hosts events, workshops, festivals, and music.
6. Volcano Hiking
Rwanda is a great destination for mountain hiking and trekking excursions given that it has a large share of the magnificent Virunga Mountains. A range of five extinct volcanoes, which include Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhavura, span altitudes of 2,400m to 4,507m and stand tall on Rwanda’s northwestern frontier within Volcanoes National Park. You can hike the mountain trails to the Virunga summits and observe Rwanda from above the clouds.
7. Enjoy Luxury Stays
After the devastating genocide twenty-five years ago, Rwanda has managed to rise from the ashes and rebuild itself into one of Africa’s safest, most peaceful, and most admired nations. With its spectacular beauty and being largely pristine, Rwanda offers towering volcanoes, lush green rain forests, and privileged access to the endangered mountain gorilla. Although it has long been an off-the-beaten-track destination far from the ordinary traveler’s itinerary, things are changing in a big way with the opening of a new string of ultra-luxurious hotels that are emerging as Africa’s newest luxury travel hotspot.
When is the best time to Visit Rwanda?
Whereas Rwanda can be visited at any time of the year, the dry season from June to September is known to be the best time to go on a safari. The light cloud cover during this time of year makes for a comfortable climate for gorilla trekking.
A highlight of June in Rwanda is the annual Kwita Izina Ceremony, when all the baby gorillas born over the previous twelve months are named. In September, the Rwanda Film Festival is another highlight on the calendar, showcasing local filmmakers and a selection of international favourites.
High/Peak Season
December to February and June to August are relatively hot, with clear skies, minimal rain, and more sunshine. These are excellent times to visit Rwanda for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in the lush forests. Wildlife viewing is best in the dry season, when game is more concentrated around water sources. However, this period is associated with congestion in lodges, and prices are forced to go up due to high demand. Gorilla permits are highly competitive, and thus, we recommend early booking to avoid missing out on the permits.
Low Season
March to May and September to November are perfect times for avid birders to visit Rwanda since these are the breeding seasons for most endemics, and migrant birds are also easily seen. Nature lovers can enjoy peace and quiet since most accommodation facilities around the parks are decongested. Discount prices are also on offer, while gorilla permits are not as competitive. These rainy seasons are perfect for photographers because they offer less light contrast in the forests, allowing them to focus on their subject matter.
However, since Rwanda experiences a tropical climate, these are usually rainfall seasons with heavy downpours, sometimes making road travel rather strenuous in some sections or parks. Therefore, we recommend packing appropriate clothing, such as rain jackets or ponchos, and closed or waterproof hiking boots. Wildlife viewing is also quite challenging since animals are scattered throughout the park because of the abundant food supply, but usually there are considerable chances of seeing them.
Popular parks to visit on your first trip
Volcanoes NP
Home to the endangered mountain gorilla and the golden monkey, as well as a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems that embrace evergreen bamboo forest, open grassland, swamps, and heath.
Nyungwe Forest NP
Popular for its chimpanzee tracking excursions, nature walks, and breathtaking scenery like the Canopy Walkway, a high suspension bridge with views over the valley and surrounding forests.
Akagera NP
The largely open expanse is ideal for prime wildlife viewing excursions without disruptions. Expect to have the Big Five sightings. Excellent for family getaways with intense game drives and boat cruises.
Kigali City
A logical and convenient place to start or finish any Rwandan safari. All international flights land in Kigali, and visitors often choose to overnight here on arrival. It’s clean, safe, and home to some great cultural and dining options.
