Scenic Drives To Enjoy On A Safari In Rwanda : Rwanda is known for its mountainous terrain, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, making it the perfect destination for a safari adventure. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful country is by embarking on a scenic drive that will take you through the breathtaking landscapes, offering you an up-close encounter with its rich wildlife. Here are some of the scenic drives you can enjoy while on a safari in Rwanda:
- Kigali to Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is a stunning wildlife reserve that stretches over 1,122 square kilometers and is home to over 12,000 large mammals. The drive from Kigali to Akagera is around two and a half hours and is a beautiful one that will take you through the hills and valleys of Rwanda’s countryside. You will see traditional Rwandan villages, lush greenery, and stunning mountain ranges along the way.
Once you reach Akagera National Park, you can enjoy a game drive where you will have the opportunity to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more. There are also boat tours on Lake Ihema, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.
- Musanze to Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s oldest national park and is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The park is home to ten habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The drive from Musanze to Volcanoes National Park is a scenic one that will take you through the beautiful hills of the Musanze district. You will pass by traditional villages, farmland, and lush greenery.
Once you reach the park, you will be assigned to a gorilla family and a guide who will take you through the dense forest to see the gorillas. You will have the opportunity to spend an hour with these majestic animals, observing their behavior and interactions.
- Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a stunning rainforest that covers over 1,000 square kilometers and is home to over 1,000 plant species and 13 primate species. The drive from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park is around five hours, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking scenery you’ll see along the way. You will pass through traditional Rwandan villages and stunning tea plantations.
Once you reach the park, you can enjoy a canopy walk, which is suspended 60 meters above the forest floor and offers a bird’s-eye view of the lush greenery below. You can also go chimpanzee trekking, where you will have the opportunity to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
- Gisenyi to Rubavu
Gisenyi is a picturesque lakeside town located on the shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. The drive from Gisenyi to Rubavu is a scenic one that hugs the shoreline, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. You will pass by traditional fishing villages and see locals fishing on the lake with traditional boats.
Once you reach Rubavu, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and the warm waters of Lake Kivu. You can also go kayaking or take a boat tour to explore the lake and its islands.
If you’re planning a trip to Rwanda, there are also several popular stopover points that you should consider visiting.
- Kigali City
Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and serves as the entry point for most visitors to the country. The city is located in the heart of Rwanda and is a bustling metropolis with a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Kigali offers visitors an excellent opportunity to experience Rwandan culture, cuisine, and history. Some of the must-visit sites in Kigali include the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Presidential Palace Museum, and the colorful Kimironko Market.
- Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is one of the largest lakes in Africa and a popular stopover point for visitors to Rwanda. The lake is located in the western part of the country and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Visitors can take boat rides, kayaking trips, and fishing excursions on the lake or simply relax on the sandy beaches. Gisenyi and Kibuye are two popular towns on the shores of the lake that offer a range of accommodation options and other amenities.
- Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda and is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and more. Visitors can take game drives, boat safaris, and nature walks to explore the park and observe the animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious lodges to camping sites.
- Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is located in the northwestern part of Rwanda and is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is a popular stopover point for visitors who want to experience gorilla trekking, which is one of the most unique and exciting wildlife experiences in Africa. Visitors can also take nature walks, visit local villages, and learn about the culture and history of the region.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda and is one of the largest montane forests in Africa. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and more. Visitors can take nature walks, canopy walks, and chimpanzee trekking to explore the park and observe the animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious lodges to camping sites.
Rwanda is a beautiful country with a range of exciting attractions and activities on offer. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, history, or simply want to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, Rwanda has something for everyone. The popular stopover points in Rwanda offer visitors a chance to experience the best of what the country has to offer and create unforgettable memories
