Top National Parks in Rwanda for Wildlife Viewing
Rwanda may be small, but it offers powerful wildlife experiences. From misty mountains filled with gorillas to wide savannahs home to the Big Five, Rwanda’s national parks are rich with biodiversity. Whether you want to trek through rainforests or cruise beside hippos, Rwanda delivers unforgettable encounters with nature. Here are the top national parks in Rwanda for wildlife viewing.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s crown jewel. It sits in the Virunga Mountains and shelters the endangered mountain gorilla. With over a dozen gorilla families open to trekking, it gives you the rare chance to stand face-to-face with one of our closest relatives. Besides gorillas, the park also hosts golden monkeys, bushbuck, and a rich variety of birds. The forested trails pass through bamboo zones and lush hagenia trees, creating magical landscapes. Treks range from moderate to challenging, but the reward always feels priceless.
Akagera National Park
If you want classic African wildlife viewing, head to Akagera in eastern Rwanda. The park features rolling plains, swamps, lakes, and woodlands. It’s home to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes. You’ll also find giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and over 500 bird species. Akagera offers boat safaris on Lake Ihema, night game drives, and scenic game viewing along its network of tracks. Thanks to strong conservation work, Akagera has transformed from a degraded reserve to a thriving sanctuary for big game.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe Forest is a haven for primates and birds. It covers the mountainous southwest region of Rwanda with ancient rainforest. Chimpanzee tracking draws most visitors, but the park also hosts L’Hoest’s monkeys, colobus monkeys, and more than 13 primate species. With over 300 bird species and thick canopies, it’s a dream for birders and nature lovers. The forest offers canopy walks, hiking trails, and chances to explore the hidden life of the jungle. Nyungwe blends wildlife with adventure, all while showcasing Rwanda’s conservation success.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Gishwati-Mukura is Rwanda’s newest national park. It combines two forests: Gishwati and Mukura. Though smaller than the others, it plays a key role in restoring biodiversity and connecting ecosystems. The park is home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, and over 230 bird species. Conservation efforts continue to grow the wildlife population, while community tourism offers cultural visits and local experiences. It’s perfect for travelers looking for intimate nature exploration without crowds.
Plan Your Safari With Us
Rwanda’s national parks offer diverse landscapes and rare wildlife. Whether you seek gorilla encounters, savannah game drives, or forest adventures, Rwanda delivers them all in one small, welcoming country. Our expert safari planners are ready to guide you through the best parks and experiences Rwanda has to offer.
Let’s create your tailor-made journey through the heart of wild Rwanda.
