Without a doubt, the prime attraction of Rwanda’s wildlife still remains the endangered mountain gorilla
A wildlife icon, hard to beat, the mountain gorilla inhabits the forested slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes in Rwanda and DRC, and the impenetrable forest of Bwindi in Uganda. Previous populations of this critically endangered species plummeted as low as 250 or so in the 1980’s, but with concerted efforts over the last 30 years, the mountain gorilla population has increased to approximately 1,060 to date over the 3 destinations. The wildlife of Rwanda does not stop here though, as over the years, alongside the protection of the mountain gorillas, we have seen a stabilisation in the tracking of the elusive chimpanzees of Nyungwe Forest in the south, and healthy investment in the savannah game park of Akagera.
It is rare that you can walk on foot with wildlife, and even rarer to walk on foot with wildlife of such size and magnitude. A silverback mountain gorilla can weigh in the region of 200kgs and commands the respect of all around. Tracking these amiable primates in their natural surroundings is truly a privileged experience and one that we should continue to fight to protect. Yes, gorilla permits are expensive, yes, gorilla permits are limited in numbers, but these factors have contributed to the successful protection of one of the most vulnerable great apes in our world today. To date, gorilla tourism is one of the clearest examples of successful ‘eco-tourism’, we just now need to ensure that we do not push it beyond the tipping point.
Forever the mischievous great ape, Chimpanzees move fast and nimble through the treetops and along the forest floor. You will often hear them before you see them, their ‘pant hoots’ or excited ‘screams’ piercing the forest canopy. Persevere though, and you will not be disappointed, sitting amongst these great apes is a thrilling experience, much different to that of the gorillas. These apes are our closest living relative (aside from bonobos) sharing approximately 98.8% of our DNA. Tracking these guys through the dense forest of Nyungwe in southwestern Rwanda is a truly remarkable experience. You sit on the forest floor and watch as they fight, play, groom, and chastise, behaviour similar to ours like no other.
Great safari for anyone who is limited for time in Rwanda or is looking to combine with another east African adventure, heading into the forest to take part in two gorilla tracks still allowing you the best opportunity to spend time with these amazing animal
From 11500 per person
Experience two mountain gorilla trekking experiences with our Specialist leader Donal Boyd on our exclusive 7 guest gorilla trekking photography safari.
From 13000 per person
Take in the highlights of Rwanda and Tanzania tracking the gorillas and big game of East Africa. This beautiful 11 day safari explores the wildlife rich Ngorongoro Crater and famous Northern Serengeti, before flying to Rwanda to track the magnificent mountain gorillas. Staying in fantastic accommodation throughout, and offering some of Africa's best wildlife experiences, this is a wonderful safari for those who want to see the best bits. This highlights safari can also be done in reverse, starting in Rwanda, giving you the option of a beach extension to the stunning Tanzanian Coast or 'spice island' of Zanzibar for a bit of relaxation after your adventure.
From 15500 per person
A unique opportunity to track the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Led by experienced gorilla trackers and guides, this safari will take you face to face with several habituated gorilla families, giving you the chance to observe the behaviour of these captivating creatures in their natural environment.
From 18500 per person
The opportunity to visit Rwanda's three main wildlife hotspots whilst staying in the most luxurious accomodation and transferring vy helicopter, from tracking the world famouns mountain gorilla and meeting the doctors of the mountain gorilla vetinary project, to tracking the cheeky chimpanzee in Nyungwe and searching for a multitude of wildlfie on game drives in Akagera National Park.
From 39000 per person
Golden monkeys are known to have unique characters and are a rare species that are endangered at the moment and they are currently found in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda. They are easily recognised due to the yellow patches that can be seen all over their bodies. The golden monkey resides in the highland forests of Central Africa, which are located in the mountain ranges of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga in Uganda and Virunga and Kahuzi-Biéga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Golden monkeys prefer habitats with abundant fruit and bamboo in order to accommodate their diet. They typically move between areas depending on the season.
Rwanda wildlife these days cannot be discussed without mentioning the growing national park of Akagera. A National Park that for years as been overlooked, Akagera National Park is now an integral part of the Rwanda wildlife scene. The rise of this park is partly in thanks to the amazing work of African Parks Conservation (an organisation of which NWS is one of the founding travel partners), who have taken on the management of the park in recent years. Highlights now include black rhinos, lion, giraffe, zebra and more. Whilst not many years ago the majority of travellers visited Rwanda to only track the world-renowned mountain gorillas, nowadays Rwanda wildlife is much more than that. Take the time to truly explore this little-known country and you will be more than surprised to uncover a plethora of wildlife highlights.
Gorilla Trekking Experts
Originally founded as World Primate Safaris in 2005, Natural World Safaris has a long-established pedigree in primate-focused travel. We have been sending clients to Rwanda for almost two decades and know exactly how to build a seamless, transformative gorilla tracking experience, whether it’s your first time or a return visit.
Exceptional Perspectives
We don’t just take you to the gorillas — we elevate the journey. Scenic helicopter transfers over the Virunga Volcanoes, curated luxury lodge stays, and access to Rwanda’s top guides are just the beginning. Every element of your safari is meticulously planned to ensure maximum time in the field and an experience that’s both personal and powerful.
Exclusive Conservation Access
Our deep-rooted conservation partnerships in Rwanda allow us to offer extraordinary experiences beyond standard treks. Join a habituation safari, spend time with the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project team, or enjoy a private dinner with a Gorilla Doctor at your lodge. We tailor these moments to your interests, connecting you to the frontline of gorilla conservation.
