Wildlife in Rwanda
Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of Africa’s most breathtaking and biologically rich destinations. Small in size but boasts a wide range of wildlife from the endangered Mountain Gorillas of Volcanoes National Park to the scenic savannahs of Akagera National Park and the primate rainforests of Nyungwe National Park. Rwanda has transformed itself into a model of conservation, sustainability, and eco-tourism where nature and people live in harmony.
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A Haven for Mountain Gorillas
Rwanda’s greatest wildlife treasure lies in the misty peaks of the Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Massif. This park is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, an endangered species which was made famous by Dian Fossey’s research.
Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s symbolic which offers an unforgettable journey through dense bamboo forests to come face-to-face with a gentle family of gorillas in their natural habitat. The revenue from Gorilla tourism directly supports conservation and local communities making it one of the most successful wildlife protection models in Africa.
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Beyond Gorillas
While gorillas steal the spotlight, Rwanda also offers other wildlife creatures.
Akagera National Park
Found in the east, Akagera is Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five mammals such as lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Once shattered poaching, Akagera has undergone an inspiring transformation through joint efforts between the government and African Parks. Today, it’s a striking sanctuary for giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Located in the southwest, Nyungwe is a pristine flawless and one of Africa’s oldest. It shelters 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and mangabeys. It’s also a paradise for bird lovers, with over 300 bird species, many of them endemic to the Albertine Rift region.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Rwanda’s newest national park, Gishwati-Mukura, connects fragmented forests and provides refuge for golden monkeys, chimpanzees, and rare bird species. It symbolizes Rwanda’s dedication to restoring ecosystems and expanding green corridors.
