Family Safaris in Akagera National Park Rwanda

For a memorable and enjoyable family safari to Rwanda, consider the interests of every family member so that everyone is catered for and plan for some family downtime during the Rwanda safari.

Any activity or service that can be booked in advance, please do just that, this will save you from a lot of stress and worry once you are at your destination in Rwanda.

Best family-friendly safari destinations in Rwanda

Rwanda is a friendly and safe country, making it an all-round perfect destination for family safaris to Africa.

Below are the best family travel destinations in Rwanda.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s biggest national park and only Savannah park opens its doors to visitors for all ages, therefore, it is the perfect destination for your family safari in Rwanda.

Both you and your kids can take part in game drives, guided safari walks, hikes, boat trips on Lake Ihema, sport fishing on Lake Shakani, bird watching and guided community visits.

You will encounter animals you will not see anywhere else in Rwanda like the Savannah elephants, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, lions, elands, impalas, buffalos, rhinos, klipspringers, topis, warthogs, oribis, wild dogs among others.

Kigali City

Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali is a top family-friendly destination in Rwanda.

The city is very clean and safe and has a number of different places to visit and explore during a family guided Kigali city tour in which visitors of all ages can participate.

Genocide memorial centers, museums, arts and craft centers, local markets, shopping malls, places of worship and much more

Volcanoes National Park

Located in the far north, Volcanoes National Park is a perfect family destination for families with kids older than 15 years of age as that is the minimum age of visitors allowed to take part in the once in a lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in the Volcanoes where you are allowed to spend an hour with the gorillas at the end of your trek when you find your allocated gorilla family.

Nonetheless, younger kids can still visit the Volcanoes National Park and will be engaged in other child friendly activities to keep them entertained as the adults go for gorilla trekking.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Home to Rwanda’s wild chimpanzees. Nyungwe Forest is famous for chimpanzee trekking which can be done by visitors 15 years and older.

You get to walk through the ever-green Nyungwe forest in search of the endangered species which you will be allowed an hour in their presence studying their behavior and watch them groom each other.

It is a lovely destination to experience with your older kids.

The younger kids can explore the forest on the Canopy walk suspended above the forest escorted by adults in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Lake Kivu

During your family safari to Rwanda, you and your kids can visit Lake Kivu in the West of Rwanda for some family downtime and beach relaxation where you can all engage in different water activities as you explore the beautiful lake.

Boat trips to an island on the lake, swimming, kayaking, guided nature walk along the lake shores, visits to fishing villages among others.

Rwanda Genocide Memorial Centers

The doors of the different Rwanda Genocide Memorial centers are open to all visitors of all ages.

They were set up in remembrance of all those who lost their lives during the 1994 genocide.

During your family safari, you and your family can visit any of the centers for an informative and educative visit that will help you understand more about the Rwanda genocide.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial center in particular has a children’s section where the happenings of the genocide are explained in a more age-appropriate sensitive manner.

Local Communities and Arts and Craft Centers

A visit to the local communities and art and craft centers in Rwanda during your family safari will help you explore the different traditions and cultural practices of the local people providing you with the opportunity to experience Rwanda’s vibrant culture and the connection of their art to their culture and history once you visit the art and craft centers.

Some of the best family-friendly safari lodges in Rwanda include Akagera Game Lodge, Mountains Gorilla View Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Dereva Hotel, Akagera Rhino Lodge, Ruzizi Tented Lodge among others.

Liaise with your tour operator to choose for you the best accommodation facility that fits the dynamics and budget of your Rwanda family safari.

Rwanda as a family travel destination has a lot to offer in terms of family-friendly destinations, accommodations and activities.

Wildlife & Cultural Activities for Kids

Rwanda presents a distinct and opportunity for families wishing to take a trip with their children.

There are many of family-friendly activities and places to visit, from viewing rare species to learning about local culture.

These are a few of Rwanda’s top family-friendly activities.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

The chance to go gorilla trekking is one of the highlights of any vacation to Rwanda.

This exciting adventure, which involves going into the forest to see and interact with gorillas in their natural habitat, is open to children who are 15 years of age and older.

Even though the hike can be difficult, your kids will have an amazing experience that they won’t soon forget.

Children slightly below this age can write to ask for special permission.

Visit Akagera National Park

Rwanda’s largest national park, Akagera National Park, provides a range of wildlife experiences.

Families can go on a safari here and witness zebras, elephants, lions, and many other creatures.

In addition, the park features several lakes where guests can take boat safaris to view crocodiles and hippos.

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

The Kigali Genocide Memorial honors the victims of the 1994 genocide in a significant and poignant way.

A sensitive and age-appropriate children’s component of the memorial explains the events of the genocide.

A trip to the memorial is a worthwhile educational opportunity that teaches kids the value of inclusion and tolerance.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Your kids would be delighted to sample the tasty and distinctive food of Rwanda.

There’s always something tasty to eat, whether it’s current fusion cuisine or classic meals like grilled goat meat and banana pancakes.

Visiting Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is a lovely location for families who want to unwind and rest. Activities available at the lake include boat trips, kayaking, and swimming.

Families can also take a tour of the nearby fishing towns to discover the customs and fishing techniques of the locals.

Cultural Tour

A cultural trip is a great opportunity to introduce your children to the habits and traditions of the people living in Rwanda, a country known for its rich and dynamic culture.

You may watch traditional dance performances, discover local handicrafts, and sample traditional cuisine at several cultural centers.

Explore the Musanze Caves

Adjacent to the Volcanoes National Park is the amazing underground network of caverns known as the Musanze caverns.

During a tour of the caves, you will travel through small openings and caverns that highlight the distinctive geological characteristics of the caves.

Canopy Walk

The only canopy walk in East Africa is located in Nyungwe National Park.

Walking on a suspended bridge above the forest canopy offers you an amazing view of the surrounding forest and wildlife, making it an exhilarating experience.

Planning your family safari to Rwanda: Tips and best practices

Rwanda is characterized by rolling hills, volcanoes, forests, rivers, lakes and wetlands, wildlife that can be spotted on visits to its 4 national parks; Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera and Gishwati-Mukura National Park and a vibrant rich culture.

A family safari to Rwanda can be a memorable African adventure creating new experiences and memories for you and your children.

Exploring dense forests, camping out in the wild and getting the chance to view the unique endangered wildlife species like the chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

Below we share with you some tips and best practices to consider when planning your family safari to Rwanda.

Choose the best Rwanda destination for your family safari

As you plan for that family safari, consider tourist destinations in Rwanda with activities that fit in your family dynamics especially the ages of your children.

Some of the popular tourist activities in Rwanda like Gorilla trekking (Volcanoes National Park) and chimpanzee trekking (Nyungwe and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks) have a minimum age limit of 15 years old for the trekkers, therefore these are perfect destinations for your family safari if you are traveling with older teens, nonetheless, you can still visit these parks with younger kids as there are other activities they can engage in like community cultural visits, nature walks and kids activities available at your family-friendly safari lodge/camp.

On the other hand, Akagera national park welcomes visitors of all ages with a number of activities available for you and your kids to explore the park.

Safari game drives, bird-watching, boat cruise, walking safaris / nature walks, hot air balloon rides and hikes.

Choose the best time to visit Rwanda

Generally, the best time to visit Rwanda on a family safari is during the country’s dry months; June to September and December to February.

The dry season provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and photography moments as there is great visibility attributed to the thinned-out vegetation and excellent trekking and forest/nature walk conditions as the trails are drier and less slippery during the dry season.

You and your children will be glad to see different animal species gathered around the lake shores in Akagera National Park.

However, if your family is interested in chimpanzees and bird watching experiences, then the wet season is the best time to visit for your family safari.

Many migrant bird’s species flock into the country joining the over 500 resident bird species inclusive of Albertine endemics creating a birding paradise and for the chimpanzees, these playful human-like apes stick around the edges of the forests during the wet rainy seasons making the spotting them during the chimpanzee trekking easier.

Just make sure you all have a good pair of waterproof hiking shoes.

Create an interesting and flexible itinerary

There is a lot to see and do in Rwanda, and with careful planning, you can combine 2 or 3 tourist destinations in your Rwanda family safari and different activities putting into consideration each family members likes and capabilities.

Plan for some free laid-back days for you and your family to just sit around and enjoy each other’s company at your chosen safari camp/lodge, playing some games and talking about your time so far in Rwanda.

Give yourselves time to slow down and appreciate the moments and gift of family. You can visit Lake Kivu for some relaxing time by the beach.

Choose family-friendly safari lodges/camps

The increase in family safaris in Rwanda has seen more family-friendly accommodations sprout out in the country within and around the major tourist destinations.

Do your research and book with a safari lodge, camp or hotel that fits your family description and has the best family amenities.

Make use of a reputable tour operator

This an important step to a memorable Rwanda family safari especially if you are first time travelers to Rwanda.

Choosing to employ the service of a reputable Rwanda tour operator will make your planning process smooth as the tour operator will help you do the ground work and make for you the necessary bookings, advise on the best family-friendly destinations and accommodation and once you arrive in Rwanda, you will be assigned to an experienced local guide that will help guide you on your safari for a family safari.

Best practices during your Rwanda safari

• The safety of all your family members should be a priority while in Rwanda. Keep away from crowded areas especially in the late hours of the day, keep your valuables safe back at your accommodation and do not drink water directly from the tap.
• Follow the set rules and regulations of the national parks to ensure your family’s safety like keeping within your rooms at night or your tents if are camping out in the wild especially in Akagera national park and staying in your tour vehicle at all times during game drives.
• During your community cultural visits, be respectful and open minded as you interact with the locals for an enjoyable experience as you immerse yourself in the Rwanda culture taking part in the traditional dance and music, listening to folk tales among other activities.
• Be sure to exchange some of your foreign currency to Rwanda Francs for smooth and easier purchases especially in local markets, shopping malls and gift and souvenir shops. Do not move around with large sums of money on you.
• Keep your cameras rolling on to miss out on anything fun and interesting as you explore the wild side of Rwanda.

Family safaris can be so exciting and a good way to strengthen the family bonds and connection between family members.

Make sure you use your time in Rwanda for your family safari wisely to create lasting fun family memories.

Staying safe on your family safaris in Rwanda

Just as with any kind of travel, vacation or holiday, prioritizing safety of the family members on your Rwanda family safari is as important as the urge of wanting to see the wild animals in their natural habitats in the forested and Savannah jungles of Rwanda.

Rwanda as a tourist destination and in general is a safe country to visit all year round either as a solo traveler, a group or family.

For a safe, enjoyable and memorable family safari in Rwanda, consider the following safety measures, guidelines, tips and precautions.

Book your Rwanda family safari with a reputable safari operator

When you finally set your family safari dates, it is time to do your research, check reviews and make sure you choose the best tour operator for your family safari.

Preferably, choose a local tour operator as they know their way around the country and will ensure your families safety during the safari.

Book with family-friendly accommodation facilities

You and your kids are going to spend most of your Rwanda safari out in the wild, for the safety of all of you and especially the children, look out for safari lodges/camps that carter for the age bracket your child/children are in.

Different facilities have different age restrictions of children for several safety reason.

Take health precautions before you travel

To ensure that the entire family stays healthy on your family safari to Rwanda, check with your family doctor or a travel medicine expert to make sure that you have all the necessary vaccinations and that they are up to date.

Acquire a family travel insurance policy to cover any unexpected medical emergencies.

And when you are finally in Rwanda, make sure you stay in good health for an enjoyable, sleep under mosquito nets, use your mosquito repellents and always drink bottled mineral water, stay away from the tap water.

Staying safe during your wild adventures

Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, safari game drives, nature walks, hiking tours, cultural tours, birding safaris, boat cruises, hot air balloon safaris and other tourist activities in Rwanda are all safe for everyone who takes part.

There are strict guidelines and regulations set in place for these different activities for your own safety, so be sure to adhere to them.

You also will always be escorted with an armed park ranger especially during walking safaris in Akagera national park and during gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.

Traveling with younger kids

If you travel to Rwanda with younger kids, always keep an eye on them when you are out exploring in the wild and when you are back at your safari camp/lodge, keep a close eye on their movements for most lodges out in the wild are not fenced and the wild animals come and go as they please.

Staying safe during game drives

Games drives in Rwanda are carried out in Akagera national park.

During your game drive safari on your Rwanda family safari, ensure to always listen to your guide and follow the guidelines that govern the activity to ensure your family safety and that of the wild animals.

Like staying inside your tour vehicle at all times during the game drive.

Ensuring your safety as a family should be your top most priority and this can be done by listening to your Rwanda family safari guide at all times.

Adhering to the guidelines will ensure you have a safe, comfortable and enjoyable stay in Rwanda during your family safari.

What to pack for your Rwanda family safari

Rwanda is a friendly and welcoming country suitable for family, group and solo travelers.

A safari to Rwanda with your family will be wonderful experience leaving lasting beautiful memories with you and your kids.

Here you are now after successfully planning your Rwanda family safari and now you are wondering what to pack for the safari.

Below is a comprehensive list that will guide you on what to pack for your Rwanda family safari.

As you prepare what to pack, put in mind the different activities you are going to do while on your Rwanda safari, the duration of your safari, the dynamics of your family like the ages of your children and the season that the wet or dry season.

Most practical / essential items include;

Clothing and footwear

General rule, your clothing should be light weight and quick drying and your footwear should be well fitting and comfortable, you wouldn’t want any of you to get blisters.

Keep the colors of your clothing neutral like khakis, browns and green.

• Long sleeve shirts/t-shirts and long pants for cooler hours of the day and to protect you and your family from the sunburns and insect bites.
• Short sleeve shits/t-shirts and shorts.
• Lightweight fleece jackets or jumpers to keep you warm especially in the early mornings and evening if you are visiting Rwanda’s highlands.
• Waterproof ponchos/jackets or raincoats for use during gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking or golden monkey trekking. Even during the dry season, expect some showers while in the forests of Rwanda.
• Enough pairs of socks and underwear for you and your child (ren).
• Sturdy walking/hiking shoes.
• Sandals or flip-flops for downtime at your safari lodge or camp.
• Comfortable sleepwear.
• Sunhats to protect your face from the hot sun during the dry season as you explore Akagera national park.

Other Rwanda Family safari items to pack include:

• Personal first aid kit for the family including any specific prescriptions for different family members
• Your identification, travel documents and insurance documents
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Cameras and binoculars to enhance your game viewing experience
• Personal toiletries
• Flashlights
• Insect repellents, sanitizers, hand wash and wet wipes
• Reusable water bottles to keep hydrated while on the move. It is not safe to drink tap water while in Rwanda for your family safari
• Day backpacks for each family member
• Snacks and energy bars
• Entertainment like board games or your child’s favorite video game to keep them occupied during time at the camp.
• Do not forget to park your kids’ favorite toy or doll, it might come in handy
• Swim wear for swimming at your safari lodge incase it has a swimming pool or incase you plan to visit Lake Kivu for some downtime with your family at the beach.
• For a family camping safari, be sure to carry all the essential camping gear and equipment needed.
• Journals to keep the kids involved in the safari. They can write down what they have seen during the game drives or guided nature walks.

Try as much as you can to travel light but efficiently. Double check your packing list to make sure you have packed all the necessities.

Book for your Rwanda family safari in advance to ensure availability so that you have a smooth experience.

Best time to visit Rwanda for family safaris

Rwanda is a beautiful country characterized with lush evergreen forests, rolling hills, scenic volcanoes, rivers, freshwater lakes, rich wetlands, a wildlife and bird-life, a vibrant culture and rich history.

Visiting Rwanda on a family holiday can be a really exciting and informative adventure for the whole family.

Rwanda can be visited most times during the year depending on the kind of experience a traveler is looking for and the activities they plan on taking up.

Rwanda has pleasant climatic conditions attributed to its location close to the equator and its elevation featuring numerous hills and volcanoes.

For family safaris in Rwanda, the best time to visit is during the dry months of June to September and December to February.

Best time to participate in most of the activities because of the favorable climatic weather conditions.

The dry season in Rwanda at a glance (What to expect and what to do):

• Best time to go for the mountain gorilla trekking experience with your family in Volcanoes national park. Note that children younger than 12 years do not take part in this activity.
• The dry weather conditions provide good ground for guided nature walks and hiking tours in Rwanda as the trails are drier, less muddy and easy to navigate during the dry season.
• Best season for a family safari to Akagera national park for a rewarding game viewing experience on guided day safari game drives, nature walks and boat trips on Lake Ihema.
• The clear skies and dry weather provide excellent visibility for wildlife photography and wildlife viewing as the vegetation is sparse and thinned out.
• Expect more sunshine in the dry season for memorable exciting family beach holidays in Rwanda on the shores of Lake Kivu.
• Note that the dry season is also the peak season in Rwanda, therefore expect high rates to apply especially on transportation and accommodation.
• As a result of the prolonged dry spell and little or no rain, the vegetation is sparse and dry thus the scenery is not as lush and vibrant as is in the wet season.
• Be sure to book for your Rwanda family safari activities in advance especially gorilla trekking in Volcanoes national park and family friendly accommodation facilities.
• Park accordingly; light weight quick to dry clothing and all the other essentials you need.

However, the wet season of Rwanda shouldn’t be ignored altogether when you are planning your Rwanda family safari especially if the family members are interested in chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park as the wet season is the best time for this primate experience.

Chimpanzees are easily spotted during the wet season as they hang around the forest edges since food is readily available and they do not have to move deep into the forest to forage for food.

Birding tours are an excellent wet season activity that the family can take part in as migratory bird species from Europe and North Africa flock the country attracted by the lush green vegetation and the readily available food.