Best 9 Rwanda safari tours attractions beyond gorillas
Tour Company: Dav Safaris
Website: www.davsafaris.com
Email: info@davsafaris.com
Tel: +256701412430 / +256757795781
Rwanda safari tours offer a rich blend of wildlife, culture, and landscapes from Big Five encounters in Akagera to primate trekking in Nyungwe. Scenic escapes like Lake Kivu and the Twin Lakes provide relaxation, while cultural gems like Iby’Iwacu Village and royal museums deepen the experience. Whether birding in Rugezi Marsh or hiking Mount Bisoke, Rwanda safari tours deliver unforgettable, conservation-driven adventures.
Akagera National Park, The Classic Big Five Safari
Akagera National Park is a cornerstone of Rwanda safari tours, offering iconic Big Five sightings in a landscape of wetlands, savannah, and lakes. Visitors on Rwanda safari tours can enjoy game drives where lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo roam freely. Lake Ihema’s boat safaris reveal hippos, crocodiles, and rare birdlife like the shoebill stork. With over 500 bird species, Akagera is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts seeking diversity and scenic beauty in one of East Africa’s most successful conservation stories.
Nyungwe Forest National Park for Primates of the Canopy
Nyungwe Forest is a highlight of Rwanda safari tours, renowned for its rich biodiversity and primate encounters. Those on Rwanda safari tours can trek through ancient rainforest to observe chimpanzees and massive troops of colobus monkeys. The canopy walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, offers unmatched views and immersion. Waterfall hikes and guided nature trails deepen the experience, making Nyungwe a must-visit for travelers seeking ecological depth, adventure, and a rare glimpse into one of Africa’s oldest and most pristine forests.
Lake Kivu Rwanda’s Inland Sea
Lake Kivu adds a refreshing twist to Rwanda safari tours, offering relaxation and cultural immersion along its tranquil shores. After days of wildlife exploration, Rwanda safari tours often include time at Lake Kivu for kayaking, swimming, and coffee plantation visits. The Congo Nile Trail invites cyclists and hikers to trace the lake’s edge, while boat trips reveal islands like Napoleon and Amahoro. With bilharzia-free waters and scenic mountain backdrops, Lake Kivu is ideal for unwinding and connecting with Rwanda’s lakeside communities.
Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Living Heritage
Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village enriches Rwanda safari tours by showcasing authentic Rwandan traditions through community-led experiences. Travelers on Rwanda safari tours can witness vibrant drumming, dancing, and storytelling by former poachers turned cultural ambassadors. The King’s Palace tour and demonstrations of traditional medicine and cuisine offer deep cultural insight. This initiative supports local livelihoods and preserves heritage, making it a meaningful stop for those who value responsible tourism and immersive learning beyond wildlife encounters.
Rugezi Marsh the Birding Safari Gem
Rugezi Marsh is a hidden treasure for Rwanda safari tours, especially for birding enthusiasts seeking rare species. As a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, it’s a key stop on Rwanda safari tours focused on avian diversity. The elusive Grauer’s Rush Warbler, endemic to Rwanda, draws specialist birders to its high-altitude ecosystem. Guided walks through the marsh reveal a wealth of endemic and migratory birds, offering a peaceful and rewarding experience for those looking to explore Rwanda’s lesser-known natural wonders.
Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo)
The Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo offer a serene escape within Rwanda safari tours, nestled in the volcanic foothills near Musanze. These tranquil waters complement Rwanda safari tours with traditional canoe rides, panoramic hikes, and community visits. Local fishermen guide visitors across the lakes, revealing stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes. Short treks to viewpoints like Mt. Rubona provide breathtaking photo opportunities, while village interactions offer insight into rural life, making this region a peaceful and culturally rich addition to any itinerary.
Ethnographic Museum (Kandt House), the Kigali’s Cultural Core
The Ethnographic Museum in Kigali adds historical depth to Rwanda safari tours, offering context on pre-colonial life and cultural evolution. Visitors on Rwanda safari tours can explore exhibits detailing Rwanda’s social, economic, and political history through artifacts, photographs, and immersive displays. Housed in the former residence of a German colonial figure, the museum emphasizes indigenous heritage and resilience. It’s an essential stop for travelers seeking to understand Rwanda’s identity beyond its natural beauty and wildlife.
King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza Royal Legacy
The King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza is a regal highlight of Rwanda safari tours, showcasing traditional architecture and royal customs. As part of Rwanda safari tours, guests can explore reconstructed thatched palaces and meet the majestic Inyambo cattle, symbols of prestige and beauty. The museum offers insight into centuries of monarchical rule and ceremonial life, enriching the cultural dimension of any travel experience. It’s a compelling stop for those interested in Rwanda’s historical depth and artistic heritage.
Mount Bisoke Hike, Volcanic Adventure
Mount Bisoke offers a rewarding challenge within Rwanda safari tours, with a scenic hike to a crater lake at the summit. Adventurers on Rwanda safari tours ascend through lush forest and volcanic terrain, often above the clouds, to reach panoramic views of the Virunga range. The emerald lake at the top is a stunning reward, and the journey itself reveals diverse flora and fauna. Located on the Rwanda–DRC border, Bisoke is ideal for active travelers seeking elevation and natural grandeur.
Why book Rwanda safari tours with Dav safaris
Book Rwanda safari tours with Dav Safaris for expertly curated adventures that blend wildlife, culture, and conservation. Our itineraries include gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, and immersive local experiences like tea picking and village visits. With professional guides, luxury accommodations, and seamless logistics, Dav Safaris ensures every Rwanda safari tour is meaningful and memorable. Travelers gain deep insight into Rwanda’s landscapes and heritage while supporting responsible tourism