Primates and Peaks - A Rwanda Family Safari

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is often referred to as the ‘garden city’ for its rolling hills, tree-lined avenues and green parks. Renowned for its laid back atmosphere and pristine cleanliness, Kigali offers a charming and safe destination, perfect for beginning or ending a luxury family safari through Rwanda.

A relatively modern city, Kigali boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Africa, offering peace of mind for families. While its remarkable cleanliness is thanks to umuganda, a monthly community service day when residents come together to maintain public spaces and infrastructure.

Whilst often dismissed as a stopover before gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Big Five safaris in Akagera, Kigali offers an incredible range of experiences in its own right. From guided tours of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and exploring its thriving art scene to sampling delicious Rwandan coffee in one of its bustling cafes, there is something for families of all ages in Kigali. 

Nyungwe National Park, bordering the Congo and Burundi borders of southwestern Rwanda, is one of Eastern Africa’s hidden safari gems.

Designated as a national park in 2004, it protects one of Africa’s largest montane rainforests, spanning over 100,000 hectares of dense jungle, pristine streams, and secluded swamps.

Situated along the Albertine Rift, which extends through Uganda, the Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania, Nyungwe ranges in altitude from 1,600 to 3,000 metres. This biodiversity hotspot is home to an extraordinary array of species, including over 13 primates, nearly 300 bird species, and even the remotest source of the Nile.

Lake Kivu, a shimmering gem nestled between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is one of Africa’s Great Lakes.

Surrounded by verdant hills and charming villages, it offers a tranquil escape from Rwanda’s bustling cities. Its calm waters are ideal for kayaking, boat trips, and swimming, while the scenic shoreline invites leisurely strolls and exploration.

Visitors can relax at picturesque beaches or discover local culture through nearby markets and coffee plantations.

Lake Kivu’s serene beauty, coupled with its fascinating volcanic origins and abundant birdlife, makes it a must-visit destination for families and adventurers seeking a mix of relaxation and discovery.

Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the northwest of Rwanda, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and home to one of only two remaining populations of endangered mountain gorillas.

Established in 1929 as Africa’s first national park, Volcanoes National Park is steeped in history and conservation significance. The pioneering work of Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas and was allegedly murdered by poachers in 1985, brought global attention to their plight. Her legacy lives on through the continued efforts to safeguard these incredible creatures.

Gorilla trekking is the park’s star attraction, offering a rare chance to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Beyond gorillas, visitors can embark on golden monkey hikes, explore the region’s lakes and volcanic caves, or immerse themselves in Rwandan culture with a visit to Iby’Iwacu village.

Following its reopening in 1999 after the Rwandan Civil War, the park has flourished as a must-visit destination, attracting some of Africa’s most luxurious lodges. These provide the perfect base for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

Kigali Serena Hotel offers a luxurious stopover for families embarking or concluding their Rwanda safari adventure.

Located just 10 km from Kigali International Airport and a five-minute walk from the city’s vibrant central business district, the hotel offers contemporary 5-star comfort with convenient access to Kigali’s many heritage and cultural sights. Families can unwind in the hotel’s spacious rooms or suites, with each room offering king-sized beds, large ensuites and upscale amenities.

The hotel’s sprawling tropical gardens, large pool and sundeck provide a peaceful environment for relaxation, while the vibrant Sokoni Restaurant offers world-class cuisine, live music and a children’s menu guaranteed to appeal to youngsters of all ages. It is also worth noting that children under the age of 12 eat at half price!

Perched on the edge of the ancient Nyungwe rainforest, One&Only Nyungwe House is a sophisticated place to base yourselves for rainforest walks and primate trekking. Set on a working tea plantation, the camp cleverly combines contemporary glass walls and dark stone floors with tasteful African furnishings, creating a very comfortable base for a family safari.

The thoughtfully designed rooms are dotted amongst the rainforest in five stunning wooden villas. Although not interconnected, families can request rooms in the same villa, resting easy in the knowledge that younger children are close by. All of the rooms feature private lounges and large balconies opening out into the rainforest canopy, while the two-bedroom Forest Suite features wood-burning stoves and a central living area ideal for quality family time. A revamped pool and wellness spa can also be found onsite.

While thrilling chimpanzee treks are the main draw for visitors to Nyungwe, Nyungwe House enhances the experience with unique excursions, including one of Africa’s only treetop canopy walks, mountain biking adventures, and imigongo art classes, where guests can discover the traditional Rwandan craft of creating designs using cow dung. Young adventurers will delight in spotting playful troops of colobus monkeys, while adults can immerse themselves in the art of tea picking on the camp’s plantation. For quieter moments, relax with a yoga session amidst the trees or enjoy a cocktail in the cosy tea lounge bar.

Located on a tranquil private beach overlooking Lake Kivu, Africa’s sixth largest lake, the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel is an idyllic resort for families embarking on a safari to Volcanoes National Park. Just a short 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance, the hotel provides a peaceful base to complement the excitement of gorilla trekking.

Families will love the spacious accommodations, including Family Rooms with two queen beds, luxurious bathrooms, and private balconies overlooking the sparkling lake. Suites offer even more space, featuring king-sized beds, separate sitting areas, and stunning veranda views, ensuring comfort for every member of the family.

Nestled in the foothills of the misty Virunga Mountains, Wilderness Sabyinyo offers a luxurious base for families embarking on a safari through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

One of the main highlights is the opportunity to trek to see Rwanda’s iconic mountain gorillas, offering families a rare chance to get close to one of the 12 gorilla families in their natural habitat. Beyond gorilla trekking, there’s the excitement of golden monkey treks, visits to Dian Fossey’s research camp, and guided walks through the camp’s lush gardens to spot endemic bird species. Families can also visit the Sabyinyo village to learn how Rwandan crops are grown and milled, watch an energetic dance performance and gain a meaningful insight into rural Rwandan life.

The lodge itself is the first community-owned lodge in Rwanda – operated by Wilderness yet owned by the SACOLA community trust – providing not only luxurious accommodation but also supporting local communities through sustainable gorilla tourism. Families can unwind in the terracotta-tiled family cottage, complete with two separate en-suite bedrooms and a welcoming fireplace for cosy evenings.

The park’s highlight is the chance to trek in search of over 60 chimpanzees that inhabit its lush forest.

Easier and more affordable than mountain gorilla trekking, this activity is ideal for families with younger children or those simply wanting to encounter our closest living relatives with whom we share over 98% of our DNA.

The hotel’s private beach and lakeside amenities offer endless opportunities for family fun. Take a boat ride across the calm waters, paddle out together in kayaks or embark on a guided nature walk along Rubavu Mountain.

Teens and adults can enjoy jet skiing or mountain biking along scenic trails, while younger children will delight in playing on the beach or joining a friendly game of lakeside volleyball.

The greatest of the great apes are so similar to humans in many ways – an hour spent with them in their natural habitat is a true privilege.

Mountain gorillas are only found in the equatorial highlands of East Africa; encompassing Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As the gorillas live in the montane forests of East Africa, a visit to see them necessitates trekking into the forest to find them. The trek can be short, or it can take several hours – all will depend on where the gorillas are that day.

Early in the morning, scouts are sent out to look for them, who then communicate the location back to the rangers at base. Tourists are split into small groups of 6-8 and begin the trek into the forest. This often involves steep terrain and dense rainforest.

The journey itself is all part of the magic of the experience. Don’t be surprised to spot other primates, countless birds, butterflies and many other interesting creatures.