Best National Parks In Rwanda & How To Get There By Car

Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse national parks in Africa. From lush rainforests to vast savannahs, Rwanda’s national parks offer a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich biodiversity up close. In this article, we will explore the best national parks in Rwanda and how to get there by car.
Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is perhaps Rwanda’s most famous national park, known for its population of mountain gorillas. The park is located in the northwest corner of the country, near the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. To get to Volcanoes National Park by car, you can take the scenic drive from Kigali, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Once you arrive at the park, you can embark on a guided gorilla trekking experience to see these magnificent primates in their natural habitat. The park is also home to other wildlife, including golden monkeys and a variety of bird species.
Akagera National Park

Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including savannahs, wetlands, and lakes. To get to Akagera National Park by car, you can take a drive from Kigali that takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Once in the park, you can go on a safari drive to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, and more. Akagera National Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 bird species to spot.
Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a sprawling rainforest located in southwestern Rwanda. The park is known for its biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species and 13 primate species calling it home. To get to Nyungwe Forest National Park by car, you can take a scenic drive from Kigali that takes approximately 5-6 hours.
Once in the park, you can explore the forest on guided nature walks, canopy walks, and chimpanzee trekking experiences. Nyungwe Forest National Park is a haven for nature lovers and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Rwanda.
How To Get There By Car:
From Kigali:
- Rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Kigali.
- Follow the well-maintained roads that connect Kigali to the national parks.
- Make sure to have a valid driver’s license and insurance before embarking on your road trip.
Tips for Driving in Rwanda: - Drive on the right side of the road.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the road, especially in national parks.
- Be aware of local traffic laws and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Rwanda’s national parks offer an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. By following these tips and guidelines, you can easily explore the best national parks in Rwanda by car and create lasting memories in this beautiful country. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime in three of Rwanda’s top tourist destinations.
To book a 4×4 rental car for safari to Akagera, Nyungwe forest or Volcanoes national park, simply get in touch with us today by sending an email to info@rentadriverrwanda.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with us now.