Rwanda

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Rwanda is the world’s premier mountain gorilla tracking destination: half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas are packed into the northwest corner of this compact nation. Away from the gorillas, Rwanda is a green and fertile country with remarkable biodiversity. Chimps and Colobus monkeys inhabit Nyungwe Forest in the south, Lake Kivu is a lovely spot for a night or two and Kigali is one of Africa’s most pleasant capital cities in which to browse for souvenirs and take in the atmosphere. Above all, Rwanda is an optimistic and forward-looking nation in which tourism has and will continue to play a key part in rebuilding its reputation and moving on from the horrors of genocide.

Featured regions

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park or Parc National des Volcans (PNV) is the premier gorilla tracking destination in the world and the backbone of virtually all holidays in Rwanda. You will need at least two nights here which works either as an add-on to an East Africa holiday or as part of a wider Rwanda tour.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is the largest single tract of montane rainforest in Africa and home to exceptional diversity of birdlife and primates. Most visitors come in search of chimpanzees and colobus monkeys and combine Nyungwe with gorillas in the north for the ultimate primate tour.

Kigali

Kigali is Rwanda’s colourful and bustling capital and the hub for most Rwanda holidays: all of Rwanda’s key attractions are within a day’s drive and international flights arrive and depart from Kigali. It is well worth while devoting a day to visiting the genocide memorial and wandering around Kigali's craft markets.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is a picturesque highland lake dividing Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Wash the dust off your feet after a couple of days trekking gorillas or take the scenic route along the lake from Nyungwe to Volcanoes National Park and spend a night or two taking in the area.

Suggested itineraries and tours

The Best of Rwanda

Rwanda | Volcanoes National Park | Nyungwe National Park | Kigali | Wildlife Experiences

Our seven-day Rwanda private touring holiday combines the powerful experience of a gorilla encounter in Volcanoes National Park, the fabulous new canopy walkway in Nyungwe Forest for eye-level chimpanzee and monkey observation, the sights of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and the cultural centre of historic Butare.

Kenya Safari and Rwanda Gorilla Holiday

Rwanda | Volcanoes National Park | Masai Mara | Kenya | Wildlife and Safari

Gorilla tracking and a safari in the heart of the world-famous Masai Mara, this itinerary compacts these two most memorable of African experiences in one week.

Rwanda Small Group Discovery Tour

Gorillas, chimps, Lake Kivu, Kigali and Butare - our guided small group Rwanda tours are excellent value and a sociable way to see the country’s highlights.

Rwanda Primates Holiday

Chimps in the south, gorillas in the north: Our tailor-made privately guided Rwanda tour is perfect for primate enthusiasts.

Rwanda Forests, Lake & Volcanoes

Lake Kivu is a beautiful ‘inland sea’ extending 100km along Rwanda’s western border – and the scenic route between Rwanda’s great primate populations.

Short break to Rwanda

Rwanda | Plan Ahead Itineraries | Wildlife and Safari

A classic quick visit to Rwanda to visit the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Rwanda

The most luxurious place to stay for gorilla tracking in Rwanda with impeccable responsible tourism credentials, gorgeous rooms and breathtaking views

Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Rwanda

The only five star accommodation near Nyungwe Forest and the most comfortable place to stay for tracking chimps and other primates in the National Park.

Virunga Lodge, Rwanda

Excellent ecological credentials, stunning views and luxury accommodation make Virunga Lodge one of the top places to stay for gorilla tracking

Gorillas Nest Lodge, Rwanda

Gorilla's Nest has a good atmosphere and the advantage of being closest to Volcanoes National Park HQ, where gorilla trekking begins.

Cormoran Lodge, Rwanda

Cormoran Lodge is a new boutique lodge on the shores of Lake Kivu, near Kibuye. It opened in 2010 and is run by Nathalie Cox, who has always lived in Rwanda. Cormoran Lodge is the perfect place to recharge your batteries between chimp tracking in Nyungwe and gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.