Top National Parks in Rwanda – Wildlife, Primates, and Scenic Landscapes
Rwanda is a small yet incredibly diverse country, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Despite its size, it is home to some of the most remarkable national parks in Africa, offering wildlife safaris, primate trekking, birdwatching, and breathtaking scenery. Rwanda has four main national parks, each unique in its attractions, ecosystems, and cultural significance.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most famous national park, best known for mountain gorilla trekking. Located in the Virunga Mountains in the northwest of the country, it is home to about a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Visitors can embark on life-changing treks to observe gorilla families in their natural habitat.
The park also hosts golden monkeys, a rare primate species, as well as other wildlife like buffalo, forest elephants, and different bird species. Beyond wildlife, Volcanoes National Park has a rich cultural and historical significance, as it was once the research base of Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist who dedicated her life to gorilla conservation.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa and a paradise for primate lovers. It is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and large troops of colobus monkeys. The park is also a top birdwatching destination, boasting over 300 bird species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift.
Nyungwe also offers the famous canopy walk, the only one of its kind in East Africa, giving visitors a thrilling experience high above the forest floor. Hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views make this park a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park offers a classic African safari experience with savannah wildlife. Located in eastern Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, Akagera is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—making it a great destination for game drives and wildlife safaris.
The park also features giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species, including the iconic shoebill stork. Boat cruises on Lake Ihema allow visitors to spot aquatic wildlife and enjoy scenic views. Akagera has transformed over the years from a heavily poached area into a conservation success story, thanks to effective management and community involvement.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s newest and least-visited park, making it a hidden gem for eco-tourism. It consists of two separate forests—Gishwati and Mukura—located in the northwest of the country.
The park is home to chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, golden monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species. Gishwati-Mukura also plays a vital role in forest conservation and community-based tourism, allowing visitors to combine primate trekking with cultural experiences.