Explore Rwanda Beyond the Gorillas and Discover Its Secret Safari Treasures

When most people think of Rwanda, one image instantly comes to mind — the mist-shrouded mountains of Volcanoes National Park and the majestic mountain gorillas that call it home. Indeed, gorilla trekking is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth and a cornerstone of Rwandan tourism. Yet, Rwanda is far more than its famous gorillas. This small but breathtaking country, known as The Land of a Thousand Hills, hides a treasure trove of lesser-known safari experiences waiting to be explored.

From golden savannahs teeming with wildlife to ancient rainforests alive with chimpanzees, from shimmering lakes to cultural encounters with resilient communities, Rwanda offers a complete African adventure condensed into a remarkably compact and scenic landscape. This is your ultimate guide to exploring Rwanda beyond the gorillas — a journey through its secret safari treasures that reveal the country’s true, multifaceted beauty.

The Untamed Beauty of Akagera National Park

When travelers imagine a classic African safari — lions stalking through tall grass, elephants trumpeting by the water, and sunsets blazing over acacia trees — they rarely think of Rwanda. Yet in the east of the country lies Akagera National Park, a stunning reserve that has quietly transformed into one of Africa’s most successful conservation stories.

Stretching along Rwanda’s border with Tanzania, Akagera is a tapestry of rolling hills, open savannah, wetlands, and lakes — a stark contrast to the misty mountains of the northwest. Once ravaged by poaching and human encroachment, Akagera has undergone an inspiring revival thanks to a partnership between the Rwandan government and African Parks. Today, it is home to the Big Five — lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos — restored to their natural home through careful reintroduction programs.

A game drive at dawn reveals the park’s magic. As golden light spreads over the plains, herds of impalas graze peacefully, giraffes stretch gracefully toward the treetops, and hippos grunt lazily in the shallows of Lake Ihema. Elephants march across the horizon, and if luck is on your side, you might spot a lion pride lounging near the road or a stealthy leopard retreating into the bush.

Boat safaris along Lake Ihema add another layer of adventure — crocodiles bask on the shores, fish eagles perch majestically on branches, and flocks of cormorants and kingfishers turn the skies into a swirl of color. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted: with over 480 bird species, Akagera is one of the best birding destinations in East Africa.

For photographers, the park’s combination of landscapes — from shimmering wetlands to rugged hills — offers a visual feast, especially during sunrise and sunset. And unlike more crowded safari destinations, Akagera retains an intimate, uncrowded atmosphere that makes every sighting feel personal and special.

Nyungwe Forest National Park — Where Rainforest Meets Adventure

If Akagera is Rwanda’s answer to the savannah safari, Nyungwe Forest National Park is its emerald soul — a vast, ancient rainforest that shelters a remarkable diversity of life. Located in Rwanda’s southwestern highlands, this park is one of Africa’s oldest montane forests and a sanctuary for primates, birds, and flora found nowhere else on Earth.

The star attraction here is chimpanzee trekking. Setting out at dawn, you’ll follow expert trackers deep into the forest, listening for the haunting calls of chimps echoing through the canopy. The moment you spot them — swinging, grooming, or feeding — is exhilarating. Their expressive eyes and human-like gestures make every encounter deeply emotional.

But Nyungwe offers more than chimpanzees. It is home to 13 primate species, including L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. For photographers and nature enthusiasts, the forest is a paradise of movement and sound. The rustle of leaves, flashes of color from butterflies, and the songs of over 300 bird species — including the rare Rwenzori turaco — create an atmosphere that feels timeless.

One of the most unique experiences here is the Canopy Walkway, a 160-meter suspension bridge hanging 70 meters above the forest floor. Walking across it is both thrilling and surreal — the forest stretches beneath you like a green ocean, with mist rising through the trees. It’s the perfect place to capture panoramic shots and to feel the pure heartbeat of nature.

Hiking trails wind through the forest, leading to hidden waterfalls, ancient fig trees, and viewpoints that open up to endless green horizons. For travelers seeking serenity, Nyungwe is a natural retreat — a place where time slows, and every breath feels alive.

Lake Kivu — Rwanda’s Lakeside Gem

Between the forested mountains of the west and the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo lies Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes. Its calm, deep-blue waters are framed by terraced hills, fishing villages, and volcanic peaks, creating an atmosphere of peace and wonder.

Lake Kivu offers a completely different kind of safari — one centered on relaxation, exploration, and lakeside life. Towns like Rubavu (Gisenyi), Kibuye, and Cyangugu each offer unique perspectives of the lake. In Rubavu, travelers can unwind at beach resorts, go kayaking, or enjoy sunset cruises as the sky turns into shades of gold and crimson. In Kibuye, boat rides take you to tranquil islands like Napoleon Island (home to fruit bats) and Amahoro Island, aptly named “Peace Island.”

Beyond its beauty, Lake Kivu holds stories of culture and community. Fishermen row traditional wooden boats into the night, their lanterns glowing softly across the water like floating stars. Watching this spectacle — called the “fishermen’s parade” — is one of the most enchanting experiences you can have in Rwanda.

The Congo Nile Trail, which runs along Lake Kivu’s shores from Rubavu to Rusizi, is an adventurer’s dream. It’s a 227-kilometer route perfect for hiking, cycling, or driving, passing through villages, banana plantations, and coffee farms. Along the way, you can meet locals, taste Rwandan coffee straight from the source, and capture stunning landscapes that combine lake, mountain, and forest in one frame.

Gishwati–Mukura National Park — Rwanda’s Newest Conservation Jewel

While Nyungwe and Akagera are well-established, Gishwati–Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s newest and most exciting conservation story. Located between Lake Kivu and Nyungwe, this park was formed by combining two remnant forests — Gishwati and Mukura — that were once severely degraded. Through dedicated restoration efforts, the park is now thriving again.

Though smaller in size, Gishwati–Mukura’s ecological richness is astounding. It’s home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, and numerous bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics. The park also features scenic hills, waterfalls, and community-driven ecotourism initiatives that invite visitors to engage with local culture.

For photographers and eco-travelers, Gishwati–Mukura represents Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to harmony between people and nature. Visiting this park supports conservation efforts and provides the rare joy of exploring a truly off-the-beaten-path wilderness.

Cultural Encounters Across Rwanda’s Heartlands

Beyond its parks, Rwanda’s cultural heritage is another hidden gem that enriches every safari journey. To understand the country’s spirit, you must connect with its people — resilient, warm, and deeply proud of their traditions.

In the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park, visitors can experience traditional Rwandan dance, learn about local crafts, and share meals prepared in the traditional way. These encounters go beyond performance — they are opportunities to engage with the local communities who play a crucial role in conservation.

In the southern city of Huye (Butare), the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda offers an illuminating look at the country’s precolonial history, traditional architecture, and art. Every exhibit tells a story of ingenuity and identity, showing how culture remains the backbone of modern Rwanda.

Even in the capital, Kigali, culture thrives. From art galleries like Inema Arts Center to bustling markets, Kigali showcases Rwanda’s creative energy. The city’s clean, organized streets and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect start or end to a cultural and wildlife journey.

When to Visit Rwanda for a Multi-Park Safari

Rwanda’s compact size means you can explore its parks and cultural highlights within a single itinerary — and each region is accessible year-round. The best time for wildlife photography and outdoor exploration is during the dry seasons:

• June to September — ideal for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, as trails are drier and wildlife easier to spot.

• December to February — perfect for birding and landscape photography, with lush scenery and fewer crowds.

The green seasons (March–May and October–November) bring dramatic skies, verdant vegetation, and fewer visitors — excellent for photographers seeking moody, atmospheric shots.

Why Rwanda’s Secret Safari Treasures Deserve Your Lens

Exploring Rwanda beyond the gorillas reveals a country of immense depth — a place where every hill hides a story and every forest hums with life. Its parks are smaller, its distances shorter, and yet the experiences are vast. You can go from photographing elephants on the plains of Akagera to hiking through the mists of Nyungwe all within a few days.

But what makes Rwanda truly special is its soul. Its transformation from a tragic past to one of Africa’s safest, cleanest, and most inspiring nations adds meaning to every journey. Traveling here isn’t just about wildlife — it’s about witnessing how nature, people, and progress intertwine to create a nation of hope and harmony.

Travel With Moreen Tours & Travel

To experience Rwanda’s hidden safari treasures in the most seamless and enriching way, journey with Moreen Tours & Travel — your trusted partner for authentic and personalized adventures across East Africa. Their expert team specializes in crafting tailor-made itineraries that go beyond the ordinary — combining gorilla trekking with unforgettable experiences in Akagera, Nyungwe, Lake Kivu, and Gishwati–Mukura.

With Moreen Tours & Travel, you’ll enjoy professional guides who know the best times for sightings, luxurious yet eco-friendly accommodations, and insights that connect you deeply with Rwanda’s wildlife and culture. Whether you’re chasing chimpanzees through misty forests, photographing lions in Akagera, or sailing across Lake Kivu, Moreen Tours & Travel ensures every moment is meaningful and perfectly curated.

Discover the real Rwanda — wild, soulful, and full of secrets — with Moreen Tours & Travel, and let this journey transform the way you see Africa forever.