What Are The Best National Parks For Game Drives In Rwanda? Rwanda, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is becoming an increasingly popular safari destination in East Africa. While it’s globally recognized for its mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda also offers spectacular game drives where travelers can spot iconic African wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re a nature enthusiast or a first-time safari-goer, Rwanda’s well-maintained parks and conservation efforts provide a rewarding experience. Here’s a guide to the best game drives in Rwanda.

1. Akagera National Park – The Crown Jewel of Game Drives

Akagera National Park is undoubtedly the premier destination for game drives in Rwanda. Located in the eastern part of the country along the Tanzanian border, this 1,122-square-kilometer park boasts diverse landscapes, from savannah plains and wetlands to rolling hills and lakes.

What to Expect on a Game Drive in Akagera:

• Big Five Sightings: Akagera is home to all of Africa’s “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Thanks to conservation efforts by African Parks and the Rwandan government, lions were reintroduced in 2015 and rhinos in 2017, making Akagera a full Big Five destination.

• Other Wildlife: You’ll also spot zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, warthogs, and an impressive array of bird species – over 500 recorded.

• Types of Game Drives: Morning, afternoon, and night drives are available. Night drives, guided by park rangers, offer a chance to see nocturnal creatures like bush babies, hyenas, and leopards.

2. Nyungwe National Park – Game Drives with a Twist

While Nyungwe National Park is better known for its dense rainforest and primate tracking – especially chimpanzees – it offers a unique game drive experience for those interested in flora, birding, and smaller forest mammals. It’s not your typical savanna safari, but it’s perfect for eco-tourism and biodiversity lovers.

What Makes It Special:

• Forest Experience: Nyungwe’s game drives traverse thick forest roads where you might spot L’Hoest’s monkeys, golden monkeys, duikers, and the rare owl-faced monkey.

• Birding Drives: Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise, with over 300 bird species, including 27 Albertine Rift endemics.

While traditional game drives are limited, Nyungwe adds variety to Rwanda’s wildlife experience, especially for those wanting something off the beaten path.

3. Gishwati-Mukura National Park – Rwanda’s Newest Safari Addition

Gishwati-Mukura, a relatively new and lesser-known park in Rwanda, was gazetted in 2015 and opened to the public more recently. Though still developing in terms of infrastructure and wildlife populations, it offers an intimate and uncrowded safari experience.

What to Expect:

• Emerging Wildlife Habitat: The park is undergoing reforestation and rewilding, making it an exciting destination for travelers.

• Guided Drives and Walks: While not yet offering full-scale game drives like Akagera, visitors can take guided forest walks with park rangers and local experts, which may evolve into more traditional drives in the future.

• Primate Viewing: Chimpanzees, blue monkeys, and golden monkeys are the park’s main attractions.

4. Community and Cultural Experiences During Game Drives

Rwanda’s game drives often extend beyond wildlife. Many tours integrate community visits that give you the opportunity to engage with local culture, offering a holistic and meaningful travel experience.

• Cultural Villages: En route to or from Akagera, you can visit traditional Rwandan homesteads, participate in drumming, and learn about local crafts and farming practices.

• Conservation Education: Some lodges and park centers include talks or exhibits about wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts.

Why Rwanda’s Game Drives Stand Out

While it may not yet rival Kenya or Tanzania in terms of scale, Rwanda offers a boutique, conservation-led safari experience. Akagera National Park is the centerpiece for traditional game drives, delivering incredible wildlife encounters with fewer crowds. Nyungwe and Gishwati-Mukura provide additional opportunities for immersive, eco-conscious exploration of Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.

The country’s clean, safe, and welcoming environment adds to the appeal. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of tracking lions in Akagera, the magic of rainforest biodiversity in Nyungwe, or the pioneering spirit of Gishwati-Mukura, Rwanda’s game drives are worth every moment.

Seasons from June to September and December to February are ideal for wildlife viewing.

• Accommodation: Options range from luxury lodges, Mid-Range to budget-friendly campsites.

Are You Ready for your Rwandan safari? Pack your binoculars, charge your camera, and prepare for a wildlife adventure in the heart of Africa.

MAKE AN INQUIRY NOW