Volcanoes National Park
In the north-west, on the Virunga volcanoes, about two to three hours from Kigali. Home to mountain gorillas and rare golden monkeys, with hikes to Dian Fossey's grave and up the volcanoes. See gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Nyungwe National Park
In the south-west, one of Africa's oldest montane rainforests. Nyungwe has chimpanzees and many other primates, superb birdlife, waterfall hikes, nearby tea plantations — and a canopy walkway suspended high above the forest. Our 8-day Rwanda safari includes the canopy walk, chimpanzee trekking and a waterfall hike.
Akagera National Park
In the east, on the Tanzanian border, Akagera is Rwanda's savannah park: lakes, wetlands and plains with elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras and hippos. Lions and rhinos were reintroduced in recent years, so the Big Five can again be seen. Boat trips on Lake Ihema are a highlight.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Rwanda's newest national park, protecting restored forest between Volcanoes and Nyungwe, with chimpanzees, monkeys and community tourism.
Lake Kivu
Along the western border, Lake Kivu is one of Africa's great lakes, with lakeside towns such as Rubavu (Gisenyi), Karongi and Rusizi. A peaceful place to rest between parks: boat trips, coffee farms, swimming and sunsets. Our 8-day safari includes Lake Kivu and a coffee experience.
How to combine them
- 3–4 days: Kigali and Volcanoes National Park — gorillas and golden monkeys.
- 7–8 days: Volcanoes, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe.
- Add Akagera for a savannah safari, or combine with Uganda's parks — see our Uganda national parks guide.
See our Rwanda safaris.
