Primate Safaris in Rwanda During the Low Season

Primate safaris in Rwanda during the low season offer an incredible opportunity for adventurous travelers to explore the country’s iconic primates while staying on a budget. Visiting Rwanda during the off-season allows nature lovers to experience gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey encounters, and colobus monkey safaris without the peak-season crowds.

Rwanda may be a small country, covering just 26,338 sq. km, but it boasts a unique landscape and diverse wildlife. Best of all, it’s an all-year-round safari destination, making the low season a perfect time for travelers who want to enjoy primate encounters more intimately and economically.

When Is the Low Season in Rwanda?

The low or off-season in Rwanda occurs twice a year: from March to May and again around October to November. These months see fewer tourists across the country’s main safari destinations, which means you can enjoy a quieter, more personal wildlife experience.

Interestingly, the off-season coincides with the wet or rainy season, a time when food is abundant for wildlife. During these months, primates like gorillas and chimpanzees stay close to their home ranges, making them easier to spot for trekking visitors.

Top 3 Primate Safari Destinations in Rwanda

Here are the top three destinations to enjoy primate safaris in Rwanda during the low season, each offering unique wildlife encounters and unforgettable experiences.

1. Volcanoes National Park

Located in northwestern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is the country’s premier primate safari destination. Visitors can enjoy:

• Gorilla Trekking: Explore habituated gorilla families such as Hirwa, Amahoro, Muhoza, Karisimbi, Umubano, Agashya, Susa A, Kwitonda, Bwenge, and Sabyinyo. Treks start at 8:00 am and last between 2 to 6 hours, offering a magical encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. A gorilla permit costs USD 1,500 per person and can be booked through Experiya Tour Company at info@experiyatourcompany.com.
• Golden Monkey Tracking: Track habituated troops of golden monkeys, a unique primate species found in the park.
• Bird Watching & Scenery: Volcanoes National Park is home to over 200 bird species, including Rwenzori turacos, Archer’s robin-chat, Dusky crimsonwing, and the African long-eared owl. The park also features five Virunga volcanoes: Mount Sabyinyo, Gahinga, Karisimbi, Bisoke, and Muhabura.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda offers a rich primate experience, particularly for:

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Treks begin in the Uwinka or Cyamudongo sectors, where visitors interact with a habituated chimpanzee community in the wild.
• Colobus Monkey Tracking: Observe troops of the beautiful black-and-white colobus monkeys along with other primates like grey-cheeked mangabeys, olive baboons, Owl-faced monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, crowned monkeys, Dent’s Mona monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and vervet monkeys.
• Additional Activities: Nyungwe also offers canopy walks, hiking, birding, and forest exploration, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts beyond primate tracking.

3. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is another excellent choice for off-season primate safaris. The park provides:

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Interact closely with a habituated chimpanzee community while exploring the lush rainforest.
• Nature Exploration: Visitors can also enjoy hiking, birding, and scenic forest walks in a quieter, off-the-beaten-path environment.

Is It Safe to Visit During the Low Season?

Yes! Primate safaris in Rwanda are safe during the low season. Experienced park ranger guides accompany every trek, ensuring both your safety and an informative, memorable experience. Beyond guiding, they monitor wildlife and keep trekkers secure in the forested habitats.

Essential Packing Tips for Low-Season Safaris

To make the most of your primate safari during the off-season, pack the following essentials:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• A comfortable daypack
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• A light sweater
• Safari hat and sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• A torch or headlamp
• A camera to capture unforgettable moments

Final Thoughts

Visiting Rwanda for primate safaris during the low season is perfect for travelers on a budget, those seeking fewer crowds, or anyone who wants a more intimate wildlife experience. With abundant food for primates and expert guides to lead the way, the off-season offers a rare chance to witness gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys in their natural habitats while enjoying Rwanda’s spectacular landscapes.

Book your low-season primate safari with Experiya Tour Company today and turn your wildlife dreams into reality.