Rwanda

Where ancient volcanoes rise and mountain gorillas roam.

Rwanda is a place of contrast and quiet power. Towering volcanoes draped in bamboo forests shelter habituated mountain gorilla families, offering travelers an encounter that forever alters their perspective. Akagera’s sweeping plains brim with lions, elephants, rhinos and hippos, while Nyungwe’s canopy walkway invites you into centuries-old rainforest alive with birdlife and primates. And then you have tranquil Lake Kivu, where glassy waters cradle islands and village boats drift reflectively. Here, conservation and connection weave into every journey, offering a soulful immersion in a land of healing and hope.

Highlights

When to go

June – September

Gorilla Trekking

October - May

Good Photography

Where to go

Places that tell a deeper story.
For those who dare to explore.

Ker & Downey® Africa reveals the heart of each country through its most iconic and undiscovered places. From legendary landmarks to hidden gems, each journey connects you to the landscapes, cultures, and stories that shape a nation.

Curated Packages

Signature journeys across Rwanda

Our expert team crafts journeys that transcend luxury. Each itinerary is shaped by the spirit of the land and the wisdom of its people — opening doors to experiences few can imagine, and even fewer will ever access.

Experiences

Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.

Accommodation

Exclusive stays across Rwanda

Ker & Downey® Africa handpicks exclusive luxury properties, from private villas to remote lodges, each selected for their sense of place, refined design, and meaningful connection to the land and its people. The below pricing range reflects starting prices per person sharing per night, varying by season and destination.

$500 - $999 PPPN
$1000 - $1499 PPPN
$1500+ PPPN

Take a seat beside the campfire, where untold stories rise with the smoke, legends live in the land, and luxury is part of the wild.

What our
Travelers say

FAQ

Everything you need to know about Rwanda

Our team of seasoned specialists share everything you need to know, from essential travel tips to thoughtful insights that ensure a seamless journey from start to finish.

Capital

Kigali

Currency

Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Language

Kinyarwanda, French, English, Swahili (English widely spoken)

Time difference

UTC+2

/01

Best time to go?

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June to mid‑September offers the clearest trails and best chances for mountain gorilla trekking. December to February brings dry weather, fewer clouds over Lake Kivu, and ideal conditions for forest walks.
/02

When is the high season?

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June to September is prime gorilla trekking season, while January to February offers dry, tranquil days, especially along the shores of Lake Kivu.
/03

When is the low season?

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March to May, and October to November bring light rain. Trails are lush, wildlife viewing is secluded, and luxury lodges offer excellent value.
/04

When is the best weather?

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The dry months (June to September; December to February) bring crisp skies and clear conditions, perfect for trekking and lake activities.
/05

Why should I choose a safari in Rwanda?

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Rwanda is one of Africa’s most intimate and personalized safari destinations. Its strong conservation ethos shines through every experience, from protected rainforests to the guardians of the mountain gorillas, offering purposeful travel with lasting impact.
/06

How much does a safari in Rwanda cost?

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Gorilla trekking permits begin at approximately $1 500 – $2 500 per person. Luxury safaris with private guiding, high-end lodge stays and curated cultural experiences typically start from $1 800 – $2 200 per person per night.
/07

What animals will I see?

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Rwanda’s wildlife spectrum includes mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, forest elephants, duiker, bushbuck, over 480 bird species, plus plains wildlife like lions, rhinos and elephants in Akagera
/08

Popular wildlife destinations in Rwanda?

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Volcanoes National Park for iconic gorilla treks; Nyungwe for rainforest exploration; Akagera for a classic East African Big Five experience.
/09

What amenities can I expect in a luxury lodge?

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Lodges like Bisate and Sabyinyo offer immersive forest villas, stunning volcano or forest views, spa treatments, farm‑to‑table dining and intimate service, all designed to ground and uplift.

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