top things to do in Rwanda

Introduction : Top Things to Do in Rwanda | An Adventure Beyond Your Wildest Dreams

Hey there, fellow adventurer! Thinking about visiting the stunning “Land of a Thousand Hills”? Well, you’re in for an absolute treat! Rwanda might be a small country, but trust me, it packs a mighty punch when it comes to unforgettable experiences. I’ve been lucky enough to explore this East African gem, and I’m excited to share my favorite activities and hidden gems with you.

Trek with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Let’s cut straight to the chase – gorilla trekking in Rwanda is absolutely mind-blowing. There’s nothing quite like making eye contact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The experience is both humbling and exhilarating.

Volcanoes National Park, nestled in the northwest corner of Rwanda, is home to several habituated gorilla families. Ever wondered what it’s like to be just a few feet away from a 400-pound silverback? It’s simultaneously terrifying and magical.

The trek itself can be challenging (those hills aren’t just for show!), but when you finally encounter a gorilla family lounging in a forest clearing, munching on bamboo shoots with babies tumbling around playfully – well, all that huffing and puffing up muddy slopes suddenly becomes worth it.

FYI, permits aren’t cheap ($1,500), but the money goes directly toward conservation efforts and supporting local communities. Plus, you only get one hour with the gorillas, so every minute is precious. My tip? Hire a porter – it supports the local economy, and trust me, you’ll appreciate the helping hand on those steep, slippery trails!

Explore the Vibrant Capital of Kigali

Kigali might just be the cleanest capital city in Africa, if not the world. Seriously, they have a monthly community cleanup day called “Umuganda” where everyone pitches in. How’s that for community spirit?

Start your city adventure at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. I know, not the most uplifting suggestion to begin with, but understanding Rwanda’s tragic past helps you appreciate its remarkable present and hopeful future. The memorial is powerful, moving, and essential for any visitor.

On a lighter note, the city’s food scene is booming! Head to Kimihurura or Nyarutarama neighborhoods for trendy cafés and restaurants. Heaven Restaurant offers fantastic food with an even better view of the city. And Inzora Rooftop Café? Their coffee will make you question every cup you’ve had before!

Shopping more your thing? Check out Kimironko Market – it’s colorful, chaotic, and full of beautiful textiles and crafts. Just be ready to haggle! 🙂

Kayak on Lake Kivu

Need a break from the adventure? Lake Kivu is calling your name. This massive freshwater lake forms much of Rwanda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it’s gorgeous.

The towns of Gisenyi (now officially called Rubavu) and Kibuye (Karongi) offer perfect bases for lake exploration. You can kayak, paddleboard, or simply lounge on the beaches. The lake is one of the few in Africa without hippos or crocodiles, so swimming is actually safe! How refreshing is that?

I spent an afternoon kayaking along the shoreline, passing fishing villages where kids waved enthusiastically from the shore. Later, I watched the sunset from a lakeside bar with a cold Primus beer in hand. Perfect day? I’d say so!

Track Chimps in Nyungwe Forest National Park

If gorilla trekking has whetted your appetite for primate encounters, head south to Nyungwe Forest. This ancient rainforest is home to 13 primate species, including our closest relatives – chimpanzees.

Chimp trekking offers a different experience from gorilla encounters. These intelligent creatures move fast, swing through trees, and are full of personality. You might hear their calls echoing through the forest before you even spot them – it’s spine-tingling stuff!

Beyond chimps, Nyungwe offers spectacular hiking trails and East Africa’s only canopy walkway. Suspended 60 meters above the forest floor, it gives you a bird’s-eye view of this incredible ecosystem. Not great with heights? Maybe skip this one! :/

Experience Rwanda’s Coffee Culture

Did you know Rwanda produces some of the world’s finest coffee? The high altitudes and volcanic soil create perfect growing conditions for coffee beans with complex, fruity flavors.

For coffee enthusiasts (or just caffeine addicts like me), a visit to a coffee plantation is a must. Many offer tours where you can learn about the entire process from bean to cup, and yes, plenty of tastings are involved!

Question for you: Have you ever picked your own coffee cherries? There’s something satisfying about harvesting these bright red fruits, knowing they’ll eventually become someone’s morning brew. Many plantations let visitors try their hand at picking, washing, and even roasting beans.

Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park

Safari time! Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda offers a classic African safari experience without the crowds you might find in neighboring countries. After years of restoration efforts, the park now hosts all of the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.

The landscape here is diverse – lakes, savannah, woodland, and swamps all within one park. Take an early morning game drive when animals are most active, or a sunset boat safari on Lake Ihema to see hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species.

IMO, what makes Akagera special is its comeback story. The park was nearly destroyed during Rwanda’s troubled times, but it’s been beautifully restored through conservation partnerships. It’s a powerful symbol of the country’s resilience and dedication to protecting its natural heritage.

Immerse Yourself in Rwandan Culture

Rwanda’s cultural experiences are rich and accessible. Traditional dance performances showcase the country’s heritage through energetic routines accompanied by drums and songs. The Intore dancers, with their distinctive manes and rhythmic movements, are particularly mesmerizing.

For something more hands-on, try a traditional basket weaving workshop. Rwandan women create intricate “peace baskets” (agaseke) in vibrant patterns. They make beautiful souvenirs with real meaning behind them.

I spent an afternoon in a rural village learning to prepare traditional Rwandan food – mashing green bananas for matoke and stirring cassava leaves for isombe. My cooking skills might be questionable, but the cultural exchange was priceless.

Hike Mount Bisoke

Ready for another adventure? Mount Bisoke offers a challenging but doable day hike with a spectacular reward – a crater lake at the summit. Standing at 3,711 meters, this volcano straddles the Rwanda-Congo border in the Virunga range.

The hike typically takes 6-7 hours round trip, and while it’s steep in places, you don’t need technical climbing skills. What you do need is proper rain gear (regardless of the forecast) and sturdy boots. The mud here is legendary!

When I reached the top, clouds initially obscured the view. But then, as if on cue, they parted to reveal the perfect crater lake below. That moment of accomplishment mixed with natural beauty? Absolutely worth every muddy step.

Visit the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo

Just north of Volcanoes National Park lie two stunning lakes separated by a narrow strip of land – hence their “twin lakes” nickname. The scenery here is postcard-perfect: volcanic peaks reflected in azure waters, terraced hillsides, and traditional fishing boats dotting the surface.

This area is less visited than other tourist spots, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility. Hire a local guide to take you on a boat ride or kayaking expedition, or simply hike the surrounding hills for spectacular vantage points.

I spent a peaceful morning watching local fishermen cast their nets while birds soared overhead. Sometimes the quietest moments become the most memorable parts of a journey.

Plan Your Visit

The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February). That said, this is a year-round destination – just be prepared for afternoon showers during rainy periods.

Getting around is surprisingly easy. Roads are well-maintained, and distances between attractions are manageable. You can hire a driver, join organized tours, or even use public transport if you’re feeling adventurous.

Rwanda has made tremendous strides in developing tourism infrastructure. You’ll find accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to charming guesthouses. Gorilla trekking permits should be booked months in advance, especially during peak season.

Final Thoughts

Rwanda delivers experiences that touch your heart and soul in unexpected ways. It’s a country that’s been through unimaginable tragedy yet emerged with dignity, purpose, and hope. The resilience of its people, the beauty of its landscapes, and the richness of its wildlife create a destination unlike any other.

Whether you’re eye-to-eye with a silverback gorilla, sipping locally grown coffee with a view of endless hills, or simply chatting with friendly locals, Rwanda offers moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Have you been to Rwanda or is it on your bucket list? Whatever stage of planning you’re at, I promise this remarkable country will exceed your expectations. The land of a thousand hills is also the land of a thousand unforgettable memories.