Rwanda Extreme Tours & Trip Packages

Rwanda Extreme Tours & Trips

95 Rwanda trips. Tours from 143 tour companies. 44 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

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Extreme
Gorilla Trekking
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5/5 Excellent
1 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Highlights

  • Luxury Safari Lodges
  • Kigali, Rwanda Tour
  • Visit craft markets and the genocide memorial
  • Volcanoes National Park
  • Foothill of the Virungas, a chain of ancient volcanoes
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Themes

High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"I just returned from a short stay at Manda Bay. It was superb! The staff was so accommodating ! At my request my large spacious cottage was located close to activities, due to a mobilty problem, the food was sensational, Superb bar service (found Kenya Gold), The seaview accommodations (blue/green waters and sugar white sand were just breath- taking! I even spend time cooling off in the pool --- poolside bar service (delivered from the bar). The accommodations are great for friends, lovers, honeymooners, families and even enemies. The locations are designed to accommodate all. The Manda Ruins on the island are interesting, I was amazed with the visit to see friendly buffalo at the watering hole - was amazing! The exzhlirating speed boat transfer to/from the airport gave a great island view as we arrived to a warm reception by the Mand Bay Resort team. I can't say enough about team."

Trip dates & details
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12-Day East Africa Gorilla Trek + Safari
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5/5 Excellent
19 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Masai Mara National Park, Nairobi

Highlights

  • Explore Rwanda and Kenya
  • Visit Volcanoes National Park
  • Explore Masai Mara Game Reserve and Lewa Downs Conservancy.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"Incredible company. We've used Travel Beyond for Africa excursions for many years. Always a great experience with great planning, great people and accommodations. We have made many family memories in places like Zambia, Kenya, Zanzibar, South Africa, Botswana. I've recommended Jeannie Fundora and Travel Beyond to all my friends, as I have full confidence that you will not only NOT be disappointed, but your expectations will be exceeded!"

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8 Days Primate and Game Safari from Rwanda
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5/5 Excellent
22 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Kibale National Park, Kigali, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Highlights

  • Arrival in Kigali Rwanda, meet and greet
  • Kigali city tour
  • Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
  • Bwindi walking experience Nkuringo-Buhoma
  • Kibale Chimpanzee trekking at Kanyancyu
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Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"What an amazing company! Every single detail of our trip was planned to perfection. Thank you Joseph and team for the trip of our lives!"

Trip dates & details
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Gorillas & Masai Mara - Camping
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Kigali

Highlights

  • Spend a precious hour in the company of mountain gorillas
  • Enjoy game drives in the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Queen Elizabeth National Parks
  • Visit Murchison Falls National Park
  • Track chimpanzees and other primates in Budongo Forest

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Gorillas & Game Parks
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Kampala, Lake Nakuru National Park, Nairobi, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rift Valley, Victoria

Highlights

  • With permits included in your trip, take a trek through Uganda's steamy forests to seek out rare mountain gorillas and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence with the help of expert Rangers and trackers.
  • Head out on an early evening game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, which is particularly famous for its rhino population.
  • Spend a few days at your own pace in Jinja, which can be a relaxing riverside retreat or an adrenaline-pumping adventure capital - depending on your mood.
  • Look out for lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes and more as an expert driver guide take you on a 4WD adventure through the incredible Masai Mara National Reserve for a full-day game drive.
  • Meet the Maasai people known for their vibrant red dress and elaborate jewellery and gain an insight into the culture and ancient ways of this proud East African community.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys, Safari

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Uganda to Rwanda: Gorilla Treks & Safari Drives
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Entebbe, Kampala, Kibale National Park, Kigali, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Highlights

  • Admire a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
  • Trek to see chimpanzees in uganda
  • Keep your eyes peeled for the plentiful elephant and hippo populations in queen elizabeth national park

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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Wild Encounters in Rwanda
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Akagera National Park, Kigali, Volcanoes National Park

Highlights

  • Observe endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys
  • Discuss gorilla conservation efforts with a researcher at the karisoke research centre
  • Spend time in kigali’s bustling nyamirambo neighbourhood
  • Track the “big five” on safari in akagera national park

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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12 Days Uganda - Rwanda Adventure
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5/5 Excellent
22 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Entebbe, Kigali

Highlights

  • Day 1: Arrival and overnight in Entebbe
  • Day 2: To Kibale forest National Park, Bigodi Swamp walk and community experience
  • Day 3: Chimpanzee tracking and crate lakes
  • Day 4: To Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and bat safari on Kazinga Channel
  • Day 5: Ishasha tree climbing lions, game drives and sundowner
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Themes

High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"What an amazing company! Every single detail of our trip was planned to perfection. Thank you Joseph and team for the trip of our lives!"

Trip dates & details
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Gorillas & Masai Mara - Camping Reverse
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

  • Spend a precious hour in the company of mountain gorillas
  • Enjoy game drives in the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Visit Murchison Falls National Park
  • Track chimpanzees and other primates in Budongo Forest

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

More
Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Kigali, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Highlights

  • With gorilla permits included in the price of the trip, seek out the rare mountain gorilla on a trek through Uganda's steamy forests and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence.
  • Learn about Rwanda's devastating history with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, and see what life looks like today with a tour of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
  • Get to know the diverse wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park on a series of 4x4 game drives and an optional boat cruise around the lake.
  • You won’t even have to get out of bed to enjoy wildlife and wonderful views – Safari lodges and Eco Camps deliver epic scenery and wild visitors like elephants, buffalo, and hippos to your doorstep.
  • Visit The Gorilla Doctors HQ and learn about how they're saving the species one gorilla patient at a time, knowing that a proportion of your trip cost goes back to supporting the important work they do.
Show more

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
2 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Extreme

Rwanda Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
44  Reviews
See all Rwanda tour reviews
Excellent
17
Great
5
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
L

Leah

Jan 2023

Written on

We had an amazing Trip

We had an amazing trip!! Everything beginning to end was so much fun ! We were very limited with time and we wanted to get the most of our short trip in Uganda! Ever...

N

Nick

Jan 2017

Written on

East Africa Adventure for Gorillas and Wildlife

This overland tour is inspired by the diversity of wildlife East Africa has to offer. The tour gave me the incredible opportunity to experience Rhinos and Gorillas i...

K

Kerry

Oct 2015

Written on

Experience with the gorillas and chimps was

Experience with the gorillas and chimps was amazing

D

David

Oct 2015

Written on

Lelei is an inspirational leader oozing with

Lelei is an inspirational leader oozing with pride for his motherland of Kenya and demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of the other countries included in this trip...

L

Lisa

Oct 2015

Written on

The chimps and gorillas were incredible and

The chimps and gorillas were incredible and I enjoyed the camp sites and game pa...

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Rwanda Tour Selection Trips

  • Rwanda is small enough to visit all three major national parks
  • Gorilla tracking doesn’t come with guaranteed sightings, though local guides are adept at finding them
  • Tracking involves walking some distance through mountainous rainforest
  • The numbers of permits for gorilla tracking are strictly limited, so book your tour well ahead of time
  • You can combine a stay in Rwanda with visits to adjoining gorilla havens in Uganda and Congo, or to game parks in neighboring Tanzania

Additional details

Common Rwanda Tour Routes

Although Rwanda is a small county, there are various ways to traverse its landscape. Travelers who wish to emphasize the cultural aspect of their trip, with less physical exertion may opt to spend more days in major cities and see fewer national parks.

However, it is also possible to see all major cities and all of the nature and wildlife which Rwanda protects within the borders of its four national parks. Traveling between national parks is possible to do by both airplane and car, although the latter option requires more planning. (Another reason to visit Rwanda on a guided tour).

Since Kigali is the only international airport in Rwanda, most travelers begin their journey there. From there, travelers can make their way south to the small town of Huye, where the Ethnographic Museum is located. Heading west, travelers will enter directly into Nyungwe National Park, which has hiking trails of various height and physicality.

Chimpanzee trekking and birding are popular activities here, along with crossing the famous canopy Igishigishigi Trail. Missing a stop at one of the many resort towns along Lake Kivu is not recommended, as it is a perfect location for relaxation on boat rides or at spas.

Travelers may choose to stop at the small, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, or continue further north to the famous Volcanoes National Park. Here, families of endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys make their homes and may be tracked by travelers.

From there, travelers may choose to end their trip by heading straight to Kigali or complete a circuit of Rwanda’s National Parks by exploring Akagera National Park. While it is more out of the way than other national parks, the guided safari tours and boat trips there make it well worth the effort.

Is Rwanda Safe?

Given its international recognition as the site of genocide in 1994, many travelers assume Rwanda to be unsafe. However, this is not the case. Rwandan locals are very friendly to international travelers, oftentimes welcoming them into their communities and sharing food.

While petty crime is a prevalent issue in Rwanda, very little violent crime is reported amongst international travelers.

It is important to keep the issues of neighboring countries in mind, as surrounding instability can lead to increased crime in Rwanda. Out of respect for the Rwandan emphasis on being well-dressed, travelers are advised to dress modestly and avoid wearing shorts.

When it comes to public transportation, Rwanda’s system is well-designed and far-reaching. Travelers are still cautioned against traveling alone, as this minimizes the potential of becoming lost or experiencing crime.

Rental cars are also available, but can sometimes become targets for robbery. All considerations for personal safety must be maintained, as common sense is oftentimes the best defense while traveling internationally.

What to Pack for Traveling in Rwanda

The many different terrains that Rwanda spans, which can make packing for it a bit different than other vacations. Remember that plastic bags of any kind are banned by law in Rwanda and baggage will be searched for them upon entering the country.

Since Rwanda is usually humid during the day, dri-fit short-sleeve shirts are important to bring. Slacks, long skirts or dresses, and other cotton-based clothes will help minimize discomfort from heat, especially when on safari tours.

Bringing insect repellent, sun-screen, and a bathing suit is very important when hiking or visiting pools. Some travelers opt to bring sun-hats as well to prevent painful sunburns. Wearing layers is useful, especially since it can be chilly in the nights and early mornings when some guided tours begin.

Having water-resistant hiking pants and long-sleeve shirts are especially important when gorilla or monkey trekking, as rainforests not only have many types of plants but also bugs of all sizes. Travelers should consider bringing malaria tablets as well as a first aid kit.

All proper identification paperwork and passports are required in Rwanda, as well as on any other guided tours of the surrounding countries. 30-day visas may be purchased upon arrival to the country and visitors are required to travel with it.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

While the weather is Rwanda is consistently hot and humid, there are still dry and wet seasons to consider when planning guided tours. For chimpanzee trekking, the rainy seasons of February to June and September to December are the best times. This is because their food is plentiful during these seasons, making it easier to spot the troops in the forest.

The opposite goes for gorilla trekking, during which the best time to go is usually December to February and June to September. These times are when hiking conditions are the most stable and malaria risk is at the lowest point. It is likely that any birding tours in Rwanda will also be included on chimpanzee or gorilla trekking excursions, as they are offered in the same locations in the national parks.
 

Luxury Travel in Rwanda

Luxury travel is a common way that tourists explore Rwanda, a fact which the country has made significant efforts to cater towards. In Kigali, the national capital, travelers can not only stay in high-end Radisson Blu and Marriott locations but also the Kigali Serena Hotel. All of these options offer private rooms, pools, spas, and central locations to begin an exploration of the city.

Modern amenities such as air-conditioning and internet are provided in each room. Travelers are also encouraged to dine at the many famous restaurants located within the hotels, as they provide options for both authentic Rwandan cuisine and other items that may be found back home.

Travelers on Rwanda guided tours may opt to have private cars arranged for themselves to take them from their hotels to itinerary locations. For sites that are far from urban centers, international flights may be booked as they are provided daily.

Each national park in Rwanda has different lodges and hotels to stay at. Some are more famous than others, but all offer the same amenities and conveniences that their counterparts in the cities have.

What makes them different is the view of the expansive natural landscape that surrounds them, their prime locations amidst Rwanda’s biodiversity, and the high level of comfort that they provide their guests with. Travelers should speak with their tour company about which luxury hotels or lodges they will be staying at while exploring.

Budget Travel in Rwanda

Budget travel in Rwanda is possible, but severely limits the range of activities which travelers can engage in. Since gorilla and chimpanzee tracking is a highly regulated activity, it very expensive. Therefore, travelers on a budget in Rwanda may opt to avoid these guided tours and instead choose ones which explore the park but do not have specific subjects.

This means that travelers will only have to pay the price of admission into the park along with their food and lodging costs (some of which are included in the tours themselves). Instead of safari tours, travelers on a budget may choose to investigate Rwanda’s booming art scene and the coffee industry.

Both the Niyo Art Gallery and Inema Art Centre are open to travelers and only cost the price of admission to enter. Collections change as new artists are introduced, allowing travelers to see different African and international art trends as they emerge. Similarly, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamata Church, and other museums are usually found on guided city tours.

These options cost both the admission price as well as any public transportation costs which may arise in getting to them. Hostels are scattered throughout Rwanda but may require more research than hotels or lodges.

When it comes to food, restaurants are relatively inexpensive, but travelers may also opt to visit local markets or food stands for meals on the go. Some guided tours have meals built into the original cost, which helps narrow down food options and save money.

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