Budget Safaris in Rwanda
Rwanda is synonymous with the magical mountain gorillas that exist in its dramatic fogy Virunga ranges, north-west of the country. The famed land of a thousand hills is not only home to mountain gorillas, but also other primates like chimpanzees hosted in the south western based Nyungwe forest, along with the Big 5 mammals in Akagera national park, charming people and rich history which make a budget safaris in Rwanda a worthwhile experience.
Rwanda’s captivating natural scenery and physical endowments continue to pull millions of tourists in, ranging from the majestic Virunga mountains, thousands of acres of ever green vegetation, vast plantations of tea, sugar cane and bananas, shimmering Lake Kivu, and verdant tracts of lush forests. These and many more are safe havens for the survival of myriad bird species, flora, insects, primates, mammals and cats.
Mainly associated with the complexity of its tragic history, Rwanda has grown to be one of the safest and most beautiful country in the region, matched with stunning natural environment and impeccable wildlife, a proof to the visitors that Rwanda is now a changed country.
Rwanda has three main conservation areas that one can explore on a budget safari, namely;
Volcanoes National Park.
Located in the lush north-west, and home to impressive mountain gorillas, Volcanoes national park is without doubt the most popular in Rwanda. Hundreds of thousands of travelers come here to fulfill their lifetime dream of trekking these impeccable primates.
The park is a host to now 400 mountain gorillas, more than a quarter of total world gorilla population; it is also surrounded by the 5 volcanic mountains that make up Virunga massif, all shrouded in bamboo and rainforest vegetation. Presence of these mountains are a proof that Rwanda is truly the “land of a thousand hills”.
Other than gorillas, Volcanoes national park is also a safe shelter for a myriad of other species, including golden monkeys, monkeys, spotted hyenas, forest elephants, baboons and black-fronted duiker.
Nyungwe Forest.
The south-western region is where you find the lush Nyungwe forest national park, one of the oldest forests in Africa which is home to large groups of chimpanzees and colobus monkey species. The forest spans over 10,000 ha of marshlands, grasslands, bogs, and bamboo making it a rich biodiverse ecosystem and home to more than 300 species of birds, as well as chimpanzees.
Here the most popular activity is chimpanzee trekking, where you get a lifetime chance to see through a dense forest canopy and view families of chimpanzees, swinging between trees, weaving in and out of sight and making panty hoots to the counterparts. It is purely a magical moment!
Akagera National Park.
This is Rwanda’s only savannah park, located in the east along the border with Tanzania. Its large ecosystem is composed of lush swamps and bogs (one of the biggest protected wetland in East Africa) as well as plain savannah landscapes that are home to the famed Big 5.
Akagera national park spans not more than 900 Sq. Km of surface area making it one of the smallest parks in east Africa. It is mostly composed of swamps, open savannah and mountains; this diverse relief presents unequalled scenic views and unique safari experiences that only a few visitors who have traveled there can testify.
Akagera national park is quite affordable as compared to other parks, and its proximity to the city / airport (only 2 hours’ drive) makes it even more ideal for budget travelers.
A day trip is possible here, with chances of spotting not only the Big 5 but also variety of antelopes, zebras, reptiles and abundant bird species.
OTHER PLACES YOU CAN EXPLORE DURING BUDGET SAFARIS IN RWANDA.
Lake Kivu.
The country’s biggest lake runs along its western boarders, divided between Rwanda and D.R. Congo. Kivu’s glassy waters give way for not only fishing but also other recreational activities, like speed boats, canoe experiences, beach holidays, cruising and so much.
It is an ideal spot for budget as well as luxury travelers. Or take a meandering drive to explore a chain of cities that dot its shorelines, including Gisenyi, Karongi and Kamembe all which present unique and rich historical and cultural experiences.
Kigali city.
This is Rwanda’s largest city and administrative capital, that has risen from its dark past to become one of the most beautiful, clean and safe city in Africa. It is home to the largest and oldest airport in the country and a starting point for all budget safaris in Rwanda.
Apart from being the main gate-way to the “land of a thousand hills”, Kigali is also striking destination where travelers can explore for a day or two to learn about culture, history, modern Rwanda, charming people, food and culinary, and so much more. The streets of Kigali are bustling though organized with striking beauty, scenery to die, coziness for and natural serenity.
A city tour in Kigali is incomplete until you pay a visit to the Gisozi Genocide memorial center; a place where more than 25,000 Rwandans were killed and buried in open graves. Here you will learn about the sombre history of genocide, and how the country has transformed into a brighter present and future
Budget accommodation
While on a budget safari in Rwanda, endeavor to stay in budget hotels and designated camp sites. There are countless of those in different destinations of Rwanda; from the cities to national parks, mountains, lakes and forest reserves.
Typical budget lodges in Rwanda cost between 40$ per night to 80$ per night on Full board basis, while camp sites range from 5$ to 10$ night when you pitch your own tent.
