Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Kigali, Rwanda

1. Akagera National Park

Home to the Big Five and various waterbird species, Akagera offers a diverse safari experience.

Big Five Encounters: One of the few places in Rwanda where you can see elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.
Wetland Paradise: Abundant birdlife due to the presence of numerous wetlands and lakes.
Community Involvement: Conservation efforts support local communities, promoting sustainable tourism.

A forested haven for primates and birds in Western Rwanda.

Primatological Significance: Home to several primate species, including the endangered golden monkey.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 130 bird species found within the park's lush forests.
Rehabilitation and Conservation: The park includes a reforestation project and sanctuary for confiscated apes.

An ancient montane rainforest boasting primates, birds, and incredible biodiversity.

Primate Populations: Home to over a dozen primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.
Canopy Walkway: A suspension bridge system providing access to the forest canopy for incredible views.
Endemic Species: Home to several endemic bird species and plants found nowhere else in the world.

Famous for gorilla trekking and the volcanic landscape, it's home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking: The opportunity to track and spend time with habituated mountain gorilla families.
Volcanic Landscape: Incredible scenic beauty, including the active volcano, Mount Nyiragongo.
Dian Fossey's Legacy: The park is home to the Karisoke Research Center, founded by Dian Fossey.

A forest reserve offering scenic views and hiking opportunities.

Hiking Opportunities: Various trails catering to different fitness levels, with rewarding panoramic vistas.
Birdwatching: The reserve is home to over 100 bird species, including several endemics.
Ecotourism and Conservation: Promotes sustainable tourism practices and supports local conservation efforts.

Underground caves offering a unique geological and historical experience.

Geological Wonders: Intricate limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Historical Significance: The caves were used as shelters during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.
Bat Colonies: Home to various bat species, including the endemic Rwenzori Slit-faced Bat.

A forest reserve providing habitats for several primate species and birds.

Primate Populations: Home to various primate species, including the endangered golden monkey.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 100 bird species found within the reserve, including several endemics.
Community-Based Tourism: The project promotes sustainable tourism and supports local communities.

A wetland reserve hosting a variety of bird species and offering hiking opportunities.

Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to over 200 bird species, including several waterbirds.
Scenic Hikes: Trails along the Congo Nile River and through the lush riparian forest.
Community Involvement: The reserve supports local communities and promotes sustainable tourism practices.

A lakeside national park offering boat tours, birdwatching, and scenic beauty.

Boat Tours: Explore Lake Kivu by boat, enjoying the stunning scenery and searching for waterbirds.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 250 bird species found within the park, including several waterbirds.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: The peaceful lake setting offers a tranquil escape for tourists.

Another lakeside national park offering boat tours, birdwatching, and scenic beauty.

Boat Tours: Explore Lake Kivu by boat, enjoying the stunning scenery and searching for waterbirds.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 250 bird species found within the park, including several waterbirds.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: The peaceful lake setting offers a tranquil escape for tourists.

A forest reserve providing habitats for several primate species and birds.

Primate Populations: Home to various primate species, including the endangered golden monkey.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 100 bird species found within the reserve, including several endemics.
Community-Based Tourism: The project promotes sustainable tourism and supports local communities.

A forested area offering hiking opportunities, primate sightings, and birdwatching.

Hiking Opportunities: Various trails catering to different fitness levels, with rewarding panoramic vistas.
Primate Populations: Home to various primate species, including the endangered golden monkey.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 130 bird species found within the forest, including several endemics.

An urban wetland park offering wildlife sightings, birdwatching, and relaxation.

Urban Wildlife Sightings: Encounter various waterbirds and small mammals within the city limits.
Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 100 bird species found within the park, including several waterbirds.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: A peaceful escape from the bustling city of Kigali.

An urban zoological park featuring a variety of African wildlife.

Urban Wildlife Encounter: A chance to see African wildlife in the heart of Kigali.
Educational Opportunities: Promotes conservation education through exhibits and interactive activities.
Relaxation and Recreation: A family-friendly outing for leisure and relaxation in the city.

An important bird area offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to over 200 bird species, including several waterbirds and migratory birds.
Habitat Conservation: Supports the conservation of important wetland habitats for various wildlife.
Community-Based Tourism: The project promotes sustainable tourism and supports local communities.