Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations: Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, is famous for its breathtaking scenery, such as the views of towering mountains and rolling hills; vibrant culture, such as cattle rearing and history; and, most notably, its extraordinary wildlife species, especially the endangered mountain gorillas and a variety of bird species, especially Albertine Rift endemics. Located in East Africa, Rwanda is home to some of the world’s most sought-after wildlife species, making it a premier destination for ecotourism and wildlife enthusiasts despite its small size and few national parks. This blog post aims to provide a detailed overview of the most sought-after wildlife species in Rwanda and where you can find them during your safari in this East African nation. This article also aims to offer valuable insights to travellers, conservationists, and wildlife lovers.
The Rich Biodiversity of Rwanda
Although it is geographically small in size, Rwanda has an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, which is still raw and untouched. The presence of its dense rainforests, sprawling savannahs, lakes, and volcanoes creates a variety of habitats supporting numerous wildlife species, including some of the rarest and most endangered animals in the world, such as the mountain gorillas and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. Protecting this biodiversity has become a national priority, leading to the establishment of numerous national parks and conservation areas, such as Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park, among others.
Some of the most Sought-After Wildlife Species in Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills and a popular tourist destination in Africa, are listed below
Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei)/Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Why are they highly sought-after during Rwanda safaris
Mountain gorillas are arguably the most iconic residents of Rwanda’s wilderness. Their gentle nature, intelligence, and shared DNA with humans make them highly captivating. They are critically endangered, with a population estimated at just over 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild worldwide, with their main threat being habitat loss due to human encroachment. Observing these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience that most of Rwanda’s visitors ought to experience while on an African safari.
Key locations for observing mountain gorillas in Rwanda:
- Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans):
The crown jewel of Rwanda’s conservation efforts and international efforts, this park in northwestern Rwanda is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in Rwanda. It is located on the Virunga Mountains, which are shared with neighbouring Uganda in the north and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the west.
What is the best time of the year to explore mountain gorillas in Rwanda?
Dry seasons that usually start from June to September and December to February are the best times of the year for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. This is due to clearer trails that are easy to navigate, and the availability of better viewing opportunities of wildlife species is guaranteed. Gorilla trekking can be done all year round in Rwanda, although the wet season may make certain hiking trails slippery and inaccessible, hence making it impossible to observe the gentle giants in their natural environment.
Golden Monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis kandti)/Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Why are golden monkeys highly sought after during safaris in Rwanda?
These playful and vibrant primates are exclusive to the Albertine Rift, and Rwanda hosts the largest population within Volcanoes National Park. They can also be found in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, which borders Rwanda from the north and shares the Virunga massif with Volcanoes National Park. Their distinctive golden-orange fur makes them visually stunning and highly sought-after by travellers visiting Rwanda
Best locations for exploring golden monkeys in Rwanda
- Virunga Mountains (Volcanoes National Park):
The golden monkey tracking experience allows tourists to trek and observe these playful primates in their natural habitat, which is usually in high-altitude mountain forests. They are usually found in high-altitude montane forests looking for food.
Best Time of the Year to Track Golden Monkeys in Rwanda:
Similar to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, the dry seasons provide the most perfect conditions for golden monkey tracking in Rwanda.
African Elephants (Loxodonta africana)/Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Why are African elephants sought after by tourists during safaris in Rwanda?
Elephants symbolise Africa’s wilderness and conservation success. Rwanda’s Akagera National Park is the major habitat, offering remarkable opportunities for elephant sightings in Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills.
Major locations for observing African elephants in Rwanda:
- Akagera National Park:
Located in eastern Rwanda, this amazing game park is part of the savannah ecosystem, providing a haven for elephants, lions, buffalo, and other savannah wildlife species, including a variety of bird species such as the Saddle-billed Stork and the African Pygmy Kingfisher, among others. Guided safaris often include elephant herds moving across the plains, river crossings, and interactions with other savannah species such as antelopes, zebras, and hyenas.
Best time of the year to explore African elephants in Rwanda:
The dry season, which usually starts from June to September, is the best time of the year for wildlife viewing in Rwanda due to various reasons. One of the major reasons is that all routes are easily accessible, which enables the viewing of most of the wildlife species, especially along waterways.
Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus)/Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Why are Nile crocodiles highly sought after during Rwanda safaris?
Rwanda’s lakes and rivers are home to these formidable, huge reptiles, which usually can grow to be as long as 2 metres. This offers a different kind of wildlife viewing experience in this land of a thousand hills.
Best locations for exploring the Nile crocodile while on Rwanda Safaris
- Lake Kariba and River Akagera:
While not as common as other notable wildlife species like elephants, these huge Nile crocodiles can be observed basking in the sun or lurking along riverbanks, waiting for their prey. Boat safaris and fishing tours often include crocodile spotting.
Bird species/Rwanda’s Most Sought-After Wildlife Species and Their Locations
Why are bird species highly sought after during safaris in Rwanda?
Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting over 700 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics and other species. Some of the most sought-after bird species in Rwanda include the African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Warbler and the Rwenzori Turaco, among others
Key locations for exploring different bird species in Rwanda:
- Nyungwe Forest National Park: Known for the Albertine Rift endemics and numerous bird species, including the Rwenzori Turaco, Black Bee-eater, Kingfishers and Collared Apalis, among others.
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park: A new conservation area with rich avifauna such as the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork, different Kingfishers, Turacos, and vultures.
- Other locations include Volcanoes National Park, which is home to several Albertine Rift endemics, such as the Rwenzori Turaco
Best time of the year to explore bird species in Rwanda:
The rainy season (October to December and March to May) enhances bird activity and visibility.
Travellers are encouraged to adhere to the national park regulations, support eco-friendly lodges, and respect wildlife by maintaining safe distances and minimising disturbances.
On the whole, the most sought-after wildlife species in Rwanda are a testament to the country’s successful conservation initiatives, such as the Dian Fossey achievement of mountain gorilla conservation in Volcanoes National Park and natural beauty such as the Akagera River and Lake Kivu. From the amazing mountain gorillas to the playful golden monkeys, the savannah elephants, and the diverse birdlife, Rwanda offers a rich number of wildlife species waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an experienced wildlife enthusiast, a conservationist, or simply an adventure seeker, Rwanda’s national parks and protected areas promise unforgettable encounters with some of Africa’s most sought-after species.