Best Guide to Rwanda Safari Costs from Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget
Tour Company: Dav Safaris
Website: www.davsafaris.com
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +256701412430 / +256757795781
Rwanda safari costs range from $1,500 for budget travelers using hostels, to $15,000+ for luxury guests enjoying iconic lodges and private guides. Mid-range safaris ($3,500–$6,000) offer the best value, with comfortable lodges, full-board meals, and guided gorilla trekking. All Rwanda safari levels require the $1,500 gorilla permit, making early booking and clear budgeting essential.
Budget Rwanda Safari ($1,500 – $2,500 per person)
A budget Rwanda safari is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers who prioritize experience over comfort. Expect basic guesthouses, hostels in Kigali, and simple lodges near Volcanoes National Park. Transportation relies on public buses and shared taxis, while meals come from local eateries for $2–$5. The gorilla permit alone costs $1,500, making it the trip’s largest expense. Even with frugal choices, a Rwanda safari at this level rarely dips below $2,000 total.
Planning a budget Rwanda safari demands flexibility and self-booking skills. Travelers must secure permits through RWDA, arrange transport locally, and book accommodations via hosting platforms. It’s a challenging route but possible for those willing to trade convenience for affordability. A sample 4-day itinerary includes hostel stays, public bus rides to Musanze, and gorilla trekking. While basic, this Rwanda safari offers raw immersion into the country’s landscapes and culture without the frills of guided luxury.
Mid-Range Rwanda Safari ($3,500 – $6,000 per person)
A mid-range Rwanda safari balances comfort and value, making it the most popular choice for couples, families, and small groups. Lodges like Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel and Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel offer en-suite bathrooms, hot water, and excellent service. Guests travel in private 4x4 vehicles with professional guides, and meals are typically full board. This Rwanda safari includes gorilla trekking and often golden monkey tracking or a visit to Lake Kivu.
Booking a mid-range Rwanda safari through a reputable operator ensures seamless logistics and quality experiences. A typical 6-day itinerary features Kigali’s genocide memorial, Volcanoes National Park, and Lake Kivu. With costs ranging from $3,500 to $6,000 per person, this Rwanda safari provides a well-rounded journey with personalized guiding, scenic drives, and cultural highlights. It’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort without the extravagance of ultra-luxury lodges or chartered flights.
Luxury Rwanda Safari ($7,000 – $15,000+ per person)
A luxury Rwanda safari offers unmatched exclusivity and service, perfect for honeymooners and high-end travelers. Accommodations include iconic lodges like Bisate, Singita Kwitonda, and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest destinations in themselves. Guests enjoy private 4x4 vehicles, gourmet dining, spa treatments, and even chartered flights between parks. This Rwanda safari is curated for privacy, comfort, and deep engagement with nature and conservation.
Booking a luxury Rwanda safari requires advance planning, often a year ahead, through specialist operators or directly with the lodges. With costs starting at $7,000 and exceeding $15,000 per person, this Rwanda safari includes private guiding, behind-the-scenes access, and immersive experiences in Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Akagera National Parks. It’s a refined journey tailored to those who value personalized service, sustainability, and the finest hospitality Rwanda has to offer.
Best time to go for a Rwanda safari.
The best time for a Rwanda safari is during the dry seasons: mid-December to early February and June to September. These months offer clearer trails for gorilla trekking and better wildlife viewing in parks like Akagera and Nyungwe. A Rwanda safari during dry periods ensures more reliable road access and fewer disruptions due to rain. While gorilla permits are available year-round, planning your Rwanda safari in advance for these peak months guarantees smoother logistics and more comfortable conditions.
Why book a Rwanda safari with Dav safaris
Booking a Rwanda safari with Dav Safaris ensures expert planning, deep regional knowledge, and seamless execution from arrival to departure. With years of experience crafting high-value itineraries across Rwanda, Dav Safaris specializes in gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and immersive cultural experiences. Every Rwanda safari is tailored to match your travel style whether budget, mid-range, or luxury while maintaining high standards in safety, logistics, and accommodation selection.
Dav Safaris stands out for its commitment to authenticity, responsible tourism, and traveler empowerment. From securing gorilla permits to selecting the right lodge near Volcanoes National Park or Lake Kivu, your Rwanda safari is handled with precision and care. Our team offers personalized guidance, transparent pricing, and insider access to Rwanda’s top wildlife and cultural sites, making your journey not just memorable but meaningful.