Types Of Safaris In Rwanda & Their Cost
Track Mountain Gorillas and Explore Rwanda’s Wild Beauty with Expert Guides
Safaris Types In Rwanda & Their Cost
Famed for its diverse landscapes—towering volcanoes, lush rainforests, savannas, and rolling hills—Rwanda is a paradise for adventurous travelers. At the heart of every Rwanda safari is the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking, alongside opportunities to see chimpanzees swinging through Nyungwe Forest or spot Big 5 game in Akagera National Park. The best times to visit Rwanda are during the dry seasons, from June to September and late December to February, when hiking conditions are ideal and wildlife viewing is at its peak.
But how much does a Rwanda safari actually cost? It’s an important question—especially since many travelers combine Rwanda with other East African destinations like Kenya or Tanzania, which come with their own price considerations. Rwanda safaris tend to be premium in nature, particularly due to the limited number of gorilla trekking permits and high conservation standards. Whether you’re planning a standalone gorilla trek or an extended multi-country itinerary, explore our curated collection of Rwanda tours and safari packages to find the experience that best fits your style and budget.
Rwanda Safaris: What Are Your Options?
Rwanda’s compact size makes it one of East Africa’s most accessible safari destinations. From the capital city Kigali, top attractions like Volcanoes National Park—famed for its mountain gorilla trekking—are just a 2.5-hour drive away. Travelers can choose between road transfers in 4×4 vehicles or luxury helicopter flights for a scenic aerial view of the country’s rolling hills and volcanic landscapes. Rwanda’s ease of travel allows visitors to pack in rich experiences—gorilla trekking, chimpanzee encounters, birdwatching, and more—without long, exhausting travel days.
Beyond primates, Rwanda offers classic safari adventures in Akagera National Park, located about 3 hours from Kigali. Here, guests can enjoy Big 5 game drives, sunset cruises, night drives, and nature walks across a mix of savannah and wetland ecosystems. With its blend of luxury lodges, diverse wildlife, and minimal travel time, Rwanda is ideal for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned adventurers. Whether you’re seeking mountain gorillas or classic game-viewing, Makali Safaris helps you experience the best of Rwanda with seamless, customized itineraries.
How Much Does A Rwanda Safari Cost?
A Rwanda safari typically ranges from $900 to $3,600 per person per night, depending on the level of luxury, season, and type of experience. Mid-range safaris generally start around $900, offering comfortable lodges and guided experiences. On the higher end, luxury safaris near Volcanoes National Park—home to Rwanda’s iconic gorilla trekking—can cost up to $3,600 per person per night, especially during peak travel months.
Safari pricing in Rwanda is largely influenced by several factors: accommodation type and location, whether gorilla permits (which cost $1,500 each) are included, and the exclusivity of the tour. Fly-in options, private guides, and all-inclusive luxury packages push costs higher, but deliver unparalleled convenience and comfort. Whether you’re planning a bucket-list gorilla trek or a multi-park adventure, Makali Safaris can customize an itinerary to suit your preferences and budget.
Rwanda Safari Tour Costs
As with any holiday, the cost of a Rwanda safari depends on where you go, what activities you include, and the level of comfort you prefer. To help you plan, the table below outlines estimated per-person, per-night safari costs for both low and high seasons, based on double occupancy.
* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.
Rwanda Accommodation Costs
Rwanda accommodation generally falls into two main categories: city hotels in Kigali, and safari lodges or campslocated within or near the country’s top national parks. Kigali offers a mix of mid-range to luxury hotels, perfect for overnight stays before or after your safari. In contrast, the lodges near Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and Akagera National Park immerse you in Rwanda’s natural beauty and offer easy access to wildlife activities.
For those planning gorilla trekking, staying near Volcanoes National Park is ideal. Many of the high-end lodges here boast forest views, exclusive trekking access, and all-inclusive luxury. Accommodation prices vary depending on proximity to the parks, level of luxury, and whether permits or guided treks are included. From intimate tented camps to 5-star eco-lodges, Rwanda offers a range of stays to suit different preferences—each enhancing the overall safari experience.
Rwanda Accommodation Prices
Please note: All prices listed are average estimates per person, per night, based on double occupancy and are provided as a guideline only. Rates exclude international flights, visas, and optional activities, and may vary depending on season, availability, and changes in conservation fees, park levies, or trekking permits. High Season typically runs from July to October and over the Christmas and New Year holidays.
How The Time Of Year Affects The Cost Of A Rwanda Safari
It’s important to understand that “all-inclusive” on an African safari, including in Rwanda, may not always mean what you’re used to. In many cases, it refers to meals, accommodation, and some activities—but international flights, permits, and specialized transfers may not be included. For U.S. travelers, one helpful tip is to check our blog on visa-free African countries to see if Rwanda qualifies and potentially save on entry fees. Always review your itinerary or ask your safari planner to clarify what’s excluded, so you can plan and budget accordingly.
Common additional costs on a Rwanda safari include international flights, internal transfers (like helicopter rides), vaccinations, tipping (which is encouraged for guides and porters), travel insurance, and premium or optional excursions like hot air balloon rides, cultural tours, or private treks. Keep in mind that currency exchange fees may apply when using international cards. Rwanda’s local currency is the Rwandan Franc, but US dollars are widely accepted—though it’s advisable to carry cash as card acceptance may be limited in remote areas. Working with Makali Safaris ensures that your itinerary is organized smoothly and all your transfers and extras are discussed in advance.
Additional Costs
It’s important to understand that “all-inclusive” on an African safari, including in Rwanda, may not always mean what you’re used to. In many cases, it refers to meals, accommodation, and some activities—but international flights, permits, and specialized transfers may not be included. For U.S. travelers, one helpful tip is to check our blog on visa-free African countries to see if Rwanda qualifies and potentially save on entry fees. Always review your itinerary or ask your safari planner to clarify what’s excluded, so you can plan and budget accordingly.
Common additional costs on a Rwanda safari include international flights, internal transfers (like helicopter rides), vaccinations, tipping (which is encouraged for guides and porters), travel insurance, and premium or optional excursions like hot air balloon rides, cultural tours, or private treks. Keep in mind that currency exchange fees may apply when using international cards. Rwanda’s local currency is the Rwandan Franc, but US dollars are widely accepted—though it’s advisable to carry cash as card acceptance may be limited in remote areas. Working with Makali Safaris ensures that your itinerary is organized smoothly and all your transfers and extras are discussed in advance.
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