How to Avoid Crowds on Safari in Rwanda: A Guide to a Serene Wildlife Experience

Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a breathtaking destination for wildlife enthusiasts. From the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to the diverse wildlife in Akagera National Park, Rwanda offers unforgettable safari experiences. However, as tourism grows, popular parks can become crowded, potentially diminishing the magic of your adventure. Learning how to avoid crowds on safari is essential for a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature.

This guide will provide unique strategies to help you enjoy Rwanda’s wildlife without the hustle of large tourist groups. Whether you’re tracking gorillas, spotting the Big Five, or exploring hidden trails, these tips will ensure a more exclusive and rewarding experience.

Why Avoiding Crowds Enhances Your Safari Experience

Before diving into the strategies, it’s important to understand why minimizing crowds matters:

1. Better Wildlife Encounters – Animals are more relaxed without large groups, increasing your chances of observing natural behaviors.

2. Exclusive Photography Opportunities – Fewer people mean unobstructed views and perfect shots.

3. A More Immersive Experience – Silence and solitude allow you to connect deeply with nature.

4. Reduced Environmental Impact – Fewer tourists help preserve Rwanda’s delicate ecosystems.

Now, let’s explore the best ways to avoid crowds on safari in Rwanda.

1. Visit During the Low Season

One of the simplest ways to avoid crowds on safari is by traveling during Rwanda’s low seasons. While the country welcomes visitors year-round, tourism peaks during the dry seasons (June–September and December–February). Instead, consider visiting during:

• The Short Rainy Season (March–May) – Fewer tourists mean quieter parks, lush landscapes, and lower accommodation rates.

• The Long Rainy Season (October–November) – While trails may be muddy, the parks are nearly empty, offering a more private experience.

Gorilla trekking permits are also easier to secure during these periods, making it an ideal time for solitude seekers.

2. Choose Lesser-Known Parks and Trails

While Volcanoes National Park and Akagera are Rwanda’s most famous destinations, exploring lesser-known parks can help you avoid crowds on safari. Consider these hidden gems:

Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Famous for chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks.

• Far less crowded than gorilla trekking destinations.

• Offers unique biodiversity, including rare birds and monkeys.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

• A newly established park with fewer visitors.

• Home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and lush forests.

• Ideal for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.

By venturing beyond the usual hotspots, you’ll enjoy Rwanda’s beauty in tranquility.

3. Book Early-Morning or Late Activities

Most safari-goers prefer mid-morning or afternoon game drives, leading to crowded sightings. To avoid crowds on safari, opt for:

• Sunrise Game Drives – Animals are most active at dawn, and fewer vehicles are on the road.

• Night Safaris (in Akagera) – A unique way to spot nocturnal wildlife with minimal competition for views.

• Late Afternoon Gorilla Treks – While mornings are popular for gorilla trekking, afternoon slots are often quieter.

Early risers and night explorers are rewarded with exclusive wildlife moments.

4. Secure Permits in Advance for Exclusive Experiences

Rwanda limits the number of daily gorilla trekking permits (only 96 per day in Volcanoes National Park), but they still sell out quickly. To avoid crowds on safari, follow these tips:

• Book Permits Early – Secure your gorilla or chimpanzee trekking permits months in advance.

• Request Less Popular Trekking Groups – Some gorilla families are harder to reach, meaning fewer tourists.

• Private Tours – Some operators offer exclusive treks with personalized guides, reducing group sizes.

Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out while keeping your experience intimate.

5. Stay in Remote or Private Lodges

Where you stay significantly impacts crowd exposure. Instead of large resorts near park entrances, consider:

• Eco-Lodges Inside the Parks – Some lodges, like Bisate Lodge or Magashi Camp, offer seclusion within nature.

• Private Conservancies – Akagera has exclusive campsites and lodges away from main tourist routes.

• Community-Run Guesthouses – Supporting local tourism often leads to quieter, more authentic stays.

These accommodations provide serenity while keeping you close to wildlife.

6. Travel with a Specialized Safari Operator

Reputable tour operators know how to avoid crowds on safari by:

• Designing private or small-group tours.

• Arranging exclusive access to less-visited trails.

• Providing expert guides who know hidden wildlife spots.

Companies like Rwandan Adventures or Volcanoes Safaris tailor experiences to minimize tourist congestion.

7. Explore Alternative Trekking Routes

In Volcanoes National Park, some gorilla families are located in more challenging terrain, deterring large groups. Opting for these treks means:

• Fewer tourists on the trail.

• Longer but more rewarding encounters.

• A sense of adventure as you navigate less-traveled paths.

Similarly, in Akagera, guided walking safaris or boat trips on Lake Ihema offer crowd-free alternatives to standard game drives.

8. Extend Your Stay for Multiple Days

Most visitors rush through Rwanda’s parks in 1-2 days, leading to peak crowding. By staying longer, you can:

• Visit parks on weekdays when fewer tourists are present.

• Take advantage of early/late activities without feeling rushed.

• Discover hidden corners of the parks that day-trippers miss.

A 4-5 day safari allows for a deeper, more relaxed exploration.

9. Engage in Unique, Non-Traditional Safaris

Instead of following the usual itinerary, try these low-crowd alternatives:

• Birdwatching Safaris – Rwanda has over 700 bird species, and birding groups are typically small.

• Cultural Safaris – Visit local communities like the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for an enriching, crowd-free experience.

• Photography-Focused Tours – Specialized photo safaris often visit secluded spots at optimal times.

These activities provide a fresh perspective while helping you avoid crowds on safari.

10. Respect Rwanda’s Conservation Efforts

Finally, remember that Rwanda prioritizes sustainable tourism. By following park rules—such as keeping noise levels low and maintaining distance from wildlife—you contribute to preserving these pristine environments for future visitors.

Enjoy Rwanda’s Wilderness in Peace

Learning how to avoid crowds on safari in Rwanda transforms your trip from a typical tourist experience into an extraordinary, personal journey with nature. By visiting during quieter seasons, choosing hidden trails, booking private tours, and staying in remote lodges, you’ll witness Rwanda’s wildlife in its purest form—without distractions.

Rwanda’s beauty is best appreciated in silence, where the rustle of leaves, the call of a distant bird, or the gaze of a gorilla becomes a moment you’ll cherish forever. With these strategies, your safari will be as exclusive as it is unforgettable.

Start planning your crowd-free Rwandan adventure today—the wilderness awaits!