What Animals Can You See Besides Gorillas in Rwanda? Complete Wildlife Guide 2026
What Animals Can You See Besides Gorillas in Rwanda? Ultimate Wildlife Safari Guide
Rwanda is famous worldwide for its mountain gorillas, but the country’s wildlife experience extends far beyond gorilla trekking. From the vast savannahs of Akagera National Park to the ancient rainforests of Nyungwe and the volcanic slopes of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife that surprises many first-time visitors.
If you are planning a Rwanda safari, you may be asking: What animals can I see besides gorillas in Rwanda?
The answer is simple: Rwanda offers some of Africa’s most diverse wildlife encounters. Visitors can see elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, antelopes, hyenas, serval cats, and more than 700 bird species. The country’s compact size makes it possible to experience all these incredible animals within a single safari itinerary.
At Gorilla Trekking Tours.com, we believe Rwanda is one of Africa’s most underrated wildlife destinations because it combines primate adventures, Big Five safaris, birdwatching, conservation experiences, and cultural encounters in one seamless journey.
Why Rwanda Is More Than a Gorilla Trekking Destination
For many travelers, mountain gorillas are the main reason to visit Rwanda. However, those who spend more time exploring the country quickly discover a rich network of ecosystems that support a remarkable variety of wildlife.
Rwanda’s wildlife thrives across three major national parks:
Volcanoes National Park
Famous for:
- Mountain gorillas
- Golden monkeys
- Forest birds
- Buffaloes
- Bushbucks
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Famous for:
- Chimpanzees
- Colobus monkeys
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Rare birds
- Forest mammals
Akagera National Park
Famous for:
- Big Five animals
- Savannah wildlife
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Giraffes
- Zebras
Together, these parks make Rwanda one of the few countries in Africa where travelers can experience both rainforest primates and classic savannah wildlife in a relatively short time.
The Big Five Animals in Rwanda
One of the biggest surprises for visitors is learning that Rwanda is now a fully restored Big Five safari destination.
The Big Five include:
| Animal | Best Place to See |
| Lion | Akagera National Park |
| Leopard | Akagera National Park |
| Elephant | Akagera National Park |
| Rhino | Akagera National Park |
| Buffalo | Akagera & Volcanoes National Park |
Years of conservation efforts have transformed Akagera National Park into one of East Africa’s most successful wildlife restoration stories.
Lions
African lions were successfully reintroduced into Akagera after disappearing from the park for many years.
Today, visitors regularly spot lions during:
- Morning game drives
- Evening game drives
- Full-day safaris
Watching a pride of lions resting on the savannah is one of the highlights of any Rwanda safari.
Leopards
Leopards are naturally elusive and mostly active at night.
Although sightings are less common than lions, lucky visitors often encounter leopards:
- Near rocky outcrops
- Along woodland edges
- During night game drives
Elephants
Akagera’s elephants are among the park’s most photographed animals.
Visitors frequently encounter elephant herds near:
- Lake Ihema
- Wetlands
- Savannah plains
Watching elephants bathe and socialize is a memorable safari experience.
Rhinos
Black rhinos and white rhinos have made a remarkable comeback in Akagera.
Thanks to successful conservation programs, visitors now have excellent chances of seeing rhinos during game drives.
Buffaloes
Buffaloes are among the easiest Big Five animals to see.
Large herds roam throughout Akagera and can often be spotted grazing across open grasslands
Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park
While mountain gorillas dominate Rwanda’s tourism image, chimpanzees provide an equally exciting wildlife encounter.
Nyungwe Forest National Park protects one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and serves as a sanctuary for thriving chimpanzee communities.
Why Chimpanzee Trekking Is Unique
Chimpanzees differ significantly from gorillas.
They are:
- Faster
- More vocal
- Highly energetic
- Extremely intelligent
Trekkers often hear loud calls echoing through the forest before spotting the chimps moving rapidly through the canopy.
The experience feels dynamic and adventurous compared to the calm nature of gorilla encounters.
Golden Monkeys: Rwanda’s Hidden Wildlife Gem
Many travelers overlook golden monkey trekking, yet it ranks among Rwanda’s most enjoyable wildlife activities.
Golden monkeys live in the bamboo forests surrounding the Virunga Volcanoes.
What Makes Golden Monkeys Special?
They are known for:
- Bright golden-orange fur
- Playful behavior
- Fast movement
- Social interactions
Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys spend much of their time leaping between bamboo stalks, creating excellent photography opportunities.
Golden monkey trekking is also:
- Less strenuous than gorilla trekking
- More affordable
- Ideal for families
Giraffes in Rwanda
Akagera National Park hosts a healthy population of Masai giraffes.
These graceful animals are frequently seen:
- Along savannah plains
- Near acacia woodlands
- Around watering points
Their towering height and elegant movements make them among the park’s most photogenic animals.
Zebras in Akagera National Park
Zebras add striking black-and-white contrast to Rwanda’s golden grasslands.
Visitors commonly encounter:
- Large grazing groups
- Mixed herds with antelopes
- Family groups near water sources
Zebras are particularly active during early morning game drives.
Hippos and Crocodiles
Lake Ihema offers one of Rwanda’s best wildlife viewing experiences.
Hippos
Hippos spend much of the day submerged in water and become more active during the evening.
Visitors can often see:
- Large pods resting in the lake
- Hippos surfacing near boats
- Territorial displays
Nile Crocodiles
Lake Ihema is also home to massive Nile crocodiles.
These ancient reptiles can often be spotted:
- Basking along shorelines
- Floating silently near reeds
- Hunting near water channels
Boat safaris provide the best viewing opportunities.
Antelope Species Found in Rwanda
Rwanda supports a wide variety of antelope species.
Common sightings include:
Impala
Known for their speed and graceful jumps.
Waterbuck
Frequently seen near rivers and lakes.
Topi
Recognized by their distinctive reddish-brown coats.
Bushbuck
Common around forest edges.
Oribi
Small and elegant antelope often found in open grasslands.
These herbivores form a vital part of Rwanda’s ecosystem and attract predators such as lions and leopards.
Hyenas and Other Predators
Spotted hyenas play a critical role in Akagera’s ecosystem.
Although often misunderstood, hyenas are highly intelligent predators and scavengers.
Other carnivores found in Rwanda include:
- Serval cats
- African wild cats
- Jackals
- Civets
- Genets
Night drives offer the best chance of spotting these elusive species.
Birdwatching in Rwanda
Rwanda is one of Africa’s top birding destinations.
The country hosts over 700 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Top Birds to Look For
Shoebill Stork
One of Africa’s most sought-after birds.
Great Blue Turaco
A colorful forest species found in Nyungwe.
Grey Crowned Crane
Uganda and Rwanda’s iconic wetland bird.
African Fish Eagle
Often seen around Akagera’s lakes.
Rwenzori Turaco
A favorite among bird photographers.
Whether you are an experienced birder or casual wildlife lover, Rwanda’s bird diversity is remarkable.
Top Uganda Gorilla Safari Tours (Popular Add-On Packages)
Many travelers combine Rwanda with Uganda to enjoy additional gorilla trekking experiences and wildlife safaris.
| Duration | Safari Tour | Highlights |
| 3 Days | 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari | Bwindi Gorilla Trekking, Batwa Community Visit |
| 4 Days | 4 Days Gorilla & Lake Bunyonyi Safari | Gorilla Trekking, Lake Bunyonyi Relaxation |
| 5 Days | 5 Days Gorilla & Queen Elizabeth Safari | Gorillas, Tree-Climbing Lions, Boat Cruise |
| 7 Days | 7 Days Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari | Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Gorillas |
These tours remain among the most booked Uganda safari packages for travelers exploring East Africa.
Why Rwanda Offers One of Africa’s Best Wildlife Experiences
Rwanda stands apart because it offers multiple safari experiences within a small geographical area.
Visitors can:
✅ Trek mountain gorillas
✅ Track chimpanzees
✅ See golden monkeys
✅ Experience Big Five safaris
✅ Enjoy birdwatching
✅ Explore rainforests
✅ Cruise wildlife-rich lakes
✅ Visit cultural communities
Few African destinations provide such variety within a single itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I see the Big Five in Rwanda?
Yes. Akagera National Park is home to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
Where can I see chimpanzees in Rwanda?
Chimpanzees are found in Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda.
Are golden monkeys easier to see than gorillas?
Yes. Golden monkey trekking is generally easier and involves shorter hikes.
Can I combine gorilla trekking with a wildlife safari?
Absolutely. Many travelers combine Volcanoes National Park with Akagera National Park for a complete Rwanda safari.
Which park is best for wildlife safaris in Rwanda?
Akagera National Park offers the best traditional wildlife safari experience.
How many bird species are found in Rwanda?
Rwanda hosts over 700 bird species across forests, wetlands, lakes, and savannah ecosystems.
Can I see hippos and crocodiles in Rwanda?
Yes. Lake Ihema in Akagera National Park provides excellent sightings of both hippos and Nile crocodiles.
Is Rwanda good for first-time safari travelers?
Yes. Rwanda is considered one of Africa’s safest, cleanest, and most accessible safari destinations.
Final Thoughts
When travelers ask, “What animals can I see besides gorillas in Rwanda?”, the answer reveals why Rwanda has become one of Africa’s most exciting safari destinations. Beyond its famous mountain gorillas, Rwanda offers Big Five wildlife, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, hyenas, and over 700 bird species spread across spectacular landscapes.
At Gorilla Trekking Tours.com, we recommend extending your gorilla trekking adventure to include Akagera National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park for a complete Rwanda wildlife safari. The result is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that showcases the very best of East Africa’s wildlife, conservation success, and natural beauty.