Welcome to Rwanda  The The Land of A thousand Hills, a small but extraordinary destination in Africa. It is located in East Africa bordered by DR Congo in the West, Tanzania in the east, Burundi in the south and  Uganda in the North.

With experiences like gorilla trekking in the misty Volcanoes National Park, Chimpanzee trekking and Canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park, Big 5 Safaris in Akagera National Park, Kigali city Tour for Rwanda Genocide Museum, Rwanda is your gateway to an exciting and memorable African Safari.

It boasts of the extraordinary biodiversity biodiversity, incredible wildlife living throughout its Volcanoes, montane rain forest and sweeping savannahs. Why wait?  Come and explore the hidden gem of Africa.

Why Visit Rwanda?

Rwanda isn’t just a travel destination but a transformation experience that help travelers to rediscover themselves.

Gorilla Trekking Experience. Rwanda is one of the only three countries on Earth where you can spot the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. With just about 1000 mountain gorillas remaining in the world, Volcanoes National Park offers the best trekking opportunities where you can just stand about few meters from the silverback gorilla. This once in a lifetime experience cost just $1500 per person and this is a dream come true for many visitors from all over the world on Rwanda Gorilla Trekking safari.

Africa’s cleanest and safest country. Rwanda was declared plastic free in 2008 with spotless streets and sustainable policies. With a low crime rate makes it the safest country for solo travelers.

Diverse wildlife beyond gorillas. While gorillas are the major attractions in Rwanda, Akagera National park offers the opportunities for Big 5 Safari since it’s a savannah park. Lions, elephants, Rhinos , Buffaloes can be spotted on a game drive.

For chimpanzee and Colobus monkeys, Nyungwe National Park offers an excredible experience for travelers seeking to connect with nature and canopy walk experience as you walk above the montane rainforest.

Rich cultural heritage. Visiting the Ibyiwacu Cultural village brings you closer to Rwanda culture and traditions. Meet the local people, learn dancing and drumming and taste the local banana beer.

Top Tourist Attractions in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

Situated in the northwest of Rwanda, Musanze District’s Volcanoes National Park protects the steep slopes of the magnificent mountain range – home of Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas and a rich mosaic of montane ecosystems. Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi – the highest at 4,507m, Bisoke with its verdant crater lake, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura.  

Things to do

Gorilla Trekking. The unique opportunity to see gorillas on Rwanda Gorilla Safaris in their natural habitat is unforgettable. Encounters with gorillas as they go about their daily lives are carefully managed, with expert trackers and guides leading small groups of tourists up the mountain slopes to spend a precious and awe-inspiring hour just a few feet away from the gentle creatures.

Golden Monkey Trekking. Another exciting experience in Volcanoes National Park is trekking to see the golden monkeys. With the golden coated fur that makes them strikingly beautiful, two golden monkey groups can be tracked – one on the slopes of Mount Karisimbi and the other in the bamboo forest on Mount Sabinyo. Tracking through the mysterious intimacy of the rainforest, alive with the calls of 200 species of colourful birds and their chattering, is only one of the truly unique experiences in the area.

 Musanze Caves. There are 52 caves in the Northern Province with15.2km of cave passages, most of which are developed from Cenozoic volcanic rocks. The Musanze Cave is 2 km long and the most frequently visited. It dates back 65 million years, where the lava flows contributed to the Albertine Rift Valley. Musanze cave is part of the lava basaltic layers from the Bisoke and Sabyinyo volcanoes. The site is formally protected and access is limited to guided tours, which last two and a half hours.

Nyungwe National Park

One of Africa’s oldest rainforests, Nyungwe is rich in biodiversity and spectacularly beautiful. A quarter of all of Africa’s primates, 13 species, are found here, including the common chimpanzee. It is also a birder’s paradise with around 300 recorded species, nearly 30 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift region with several plant species such as orchids. In 2021, 1,277 hectares of indigenous forest regeneration was assisted through the removal of non- native plants. With plenty of rainfall, Nyungwe is also the major catchment area in Rwanda, and supplies water to 70% of the country. A ridge running through the forest forms a watershed between the drainage systems of the Nile and the Congo. A spring on the slopes of Mt Bigugu is said to be the furthest source of the Nile, the world’s longest river.

Things to do

Primate tracking. Nyungwe is home to chimpanzees as well a host of monkeys – colobus, golden, L’Hoest’s, owl faced, Dent’s, blue and vervet – alongside olive baboons as well as the nocturnal potto and bushbabies. Sociable creatures, chimpanzees live in extended communities and move around every day, foraging  for food or occasionally hunting smaller mammals. They build fresh nests in the trees each night.

Birdwatching. The birdwatching in Nyungwe is among the best in Africa with 322 bird species including Red-collared Babbler and other Albertine Rift Endemic species. Butterflies are also a common sight, with at least 120 species.

Canopy Walkway Experience. Three suspension bridges, 70 metres above the forest floor and spanning more than 120 metres long, will provide you with unparalleled views of the rainforest and mist-covered hills in the distance. The walkway is accessible from the Igishigishigi trail, and visitors are accompanied by guides.

Akagera National Park

Founded in 1934, Akagera National Park is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda and home to the famous Big 5 game (lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos and elephants).

It is named after the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary and feeds into a labyrinth of lakes of which the largest is Lake Ihema.

A boat trip on lakes Ihema and Rwanyakizinga is also a highlight of any visit to Akagera, with its large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles and abundant birdlife. Akagera National Park.

Things to do

Day and night game drives

Akagera offers game drives in the morning (half day), afternoon and at night.  Guided night drives that commence at sunset are a fantastic way to cap off your day in the park and offer the best chance of seeing nocturnal wildlife, from lions to leopards which are among the most sought-after sightings!

Boat safari on Lake Ihema and Rwanyakizinga

Travellers seeking a variation on the typical safari should consider a boat trip on Lakes Ihema and Rwanyakizinga, where you can drift along the lakes in the midst of thriving wildlife. For serious birders, this experience is a must. Scheduled trips can be arranged four times a day from 7.30am, 9:00am, 3:00pm and 4.30pm.

Lake Kivu

Part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu in the west of Rwanda is surrounded by magnificent mountains and has deep emerald green waters. It is Rwanda’s largest lake and the sixth largest in Africa, providing a calm place to unwind.

Things To do

Kayaking. Paddling across the coastline of Lake Kivu by kayak is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the scenic, mountainous backdrop and tranquility of the water. The clear, pristine lake has an irregular shoreline, dotted with islands.  There are no hippos or crocodiles, making it a safe and seamless experience.

Cycling. Explore Rwanda’s countryside on a bike to experience one of the region’s most authentic and rewarding activities. Arguably the greatest route is the Congo Nile Trail, a 227 km itinerary which runs roughly parallel to the eastern shore of Lake Kivu. Starting in Rubavu and ending in Rusizi, the journey takes about five days, although it is possible to do single stages. Rusizi is the closest town to Nyungwe National Park, which is about an hour’s drive away.

 Agro-tourism experiences. Experience Rwandan coffee from crop to cup and meet coffee farmers behind your favorite cup of coffee on the shores of Lake Kivu. The secret behind the perfect cup of tea starts in Gisakura Tea Estate and will enable you to experience and learn the art of picking tea leaves and trying it out on your own.  Hugging the rippling hills at the western fringes of Nyungwe National Park, this estate is among the most famous of Rwanda’s tea plantations and is certainly the most spectacular.

Kigali city

Founded in 1907 as a small administrative outpost with limited linkage to the outside world, it has today grown into a modern metropolis – the heart of the emerging Rwandan economy and one of the safest and cleanest capital cities in Africa.

What to do

The Kigali Genocide Memorial. Inaugurated in 2004, the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the Rwanda Genocide against the Tutsi. Visit and learn more about the Rwandan society before colonisation, details of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the post-genocide nation rebuilding through unity and reconciliation.

Made in Rwanda shopping

Looking for souvenirs? Kigali has a variety of locally made textiles, accessories, traditional baskets and more for you and your loved ones. Visit the various markets in surrounding communities across the city for affordable Made in Rwanda items. They can be found at the Kimironko Market, Kaplaki and the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre.

Umusambi Village

This 21-hectare beautifully restored wetland, Umusambi Village provides a sanctuary where you can spot over 130 bird species including 50 endangered Grey Crowned Cranes saved from captivity. These majestic birds were disabled as a result and unable to be returned to the wild. Their new permanent home provides an enriching environment for them to enjoy nature again.

Best Time to visit Rwanda

June-September and December- March. This is the peak season for travelers to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking safari, Big 5 Safaris. The dry season offers the best Gorilla Trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park since the roads, forest are accessible. During this time the trails are dry enabling people to walk with out difficulties. Also animals are easy to see in Akagera National Park.

March -May and October- November: These are dry months which makes roads and the forest difficult to access due the slippery and muddy conditions as a result of heavy rains. Though thsese months are less crowded and favorite for people who hate crowded sites.

Travel Tips to Rwanda

Visas. Nationals of many counties can obtain Visas on arrival while others will have to apply in advance. You can apply for a visa through the Rwanda Diplomatic mission in your country of residence.

Plastic Bag Ban. From 2008, Rwanda banned the use of plastic bags in the country to minimize the environmental impacts they pose in the environment. Adhere to the standards in place. Incase of shopping, you will be given paper bags to pack your goods and other special packages. Also you need to avoid litering the streets and dispose the wastes the right way.

Saftey. Rwanda  is generally a peaceful and safe country to stay in for even solo travelers. It has a low crime rate although you are advised to take precuations on your safari by avoiding walking alone at night in risky areas, keeping your valuable items away.

Curency. The local currency is the Rwandan Franc and the most exchange transactions are Rwanda Franc to USD Dollars. The bank notes are in 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 denominations. The currency is formally issued and controlled by the National Bank of Rwanda.

Language. Kinyarwanda , French, English and Swahili langues are widely used throughout Rwanda.

Dress Code. Rwanda does not restrict the dress code but it is adversable for women to dress decently while in Rwanda. In business areas people dress smartly. Cotton clothing is comfortable as the weather gets hot and at night cools so a sweater is required.

For gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking, you will be in the rainforest where its likely to rain. Warm clothes are required, hiking boots,Hat, rain jacket in case it rains.

Respectful Behavior. Avoid talking about the 1994 Rwanda Genocide in public since it reminds them of they lost their dear ones in cold blood at the hands of the ruthless Interahamwe fighters. Also respect the traditions and norms of the Rwandan People.

Health.  Ensure that you have acquired the right vaccination like against yellow fever, malaria before travelling to Rwanda and also your personal medicine to avoid emergencies.

FAQs About Rwanda

1. Is Rwanda safe?

Yes, Rwanda is safe for travelers and tourist from the whole world although you need to exercise the precaution measures to void theft and injuries. Keep all your valuables safe from people, avoid moving at night is risky areas and have emergency contact list in case of any emegecy for quick response

2. What is the best time to visit Rwanda?

The best time to visit Rwanda is  during the dry months of June- September and December- February. These are the peak seasons are are best for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking since the terrain is navigable.

3. What languages are spoken in Rwanda?

Kinyarwanda , French, English and Swahili langues are widely used throughout Rwanda.

4. Is Rwanda expensive?

Rwanda is considerably expensive compared to its neighbouring countries. However, there are wide range of accommodations from budget , mid range and luxury and activity options that favor travelers of different budget.

5. What is Rwanda like?

Rwanda is a small landlocked country with rolling hills, savannahs and volcanoes. Majority of the area is highly and the high altitude. It also the cleanest countryin Africa free from plastic bags.

6. What are some unique things about Rwanda?

Rwanda is a leader in gender equality, with a high percentage of women in parliament.

It hosts monthly Car-Free Days in Kigali to promote sustainable transportation.

Rwanda is actively involved in environmental conservation, including banning plastic bags.

It’s also a hub for innovation and technology, aiming to become the tech capital of Africa.

7. Is malaria a concern in Rwanda?

Yes, Malaria is common in Rwanda especially during the rainy season. Ensure you are vaccinated against malaria, you have insect repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, you take anti malaria tabs as advised by your personal doctor.

8. What should I pack for a trip to Rwanda?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for hiking and gorilla trekking. Light clothing is suitable for the tropical climate, but it’s advisable to bring layers for cooler evenings. Rain gear is also recommended, as Rwanda experiences two rainy seasons.