5 Best Things to Do in Rwanda for an Unforgettable Trip

Rwanda is a country rich in natural beauty, culture, and wildlife, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler. One of the top things to do is visit Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the lush forest to observe these incredible creatures up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Next, head to Lake Kivu for a relaxing retreat, where you can enjoy water activities or simply unwind by the beach.

For those interested in history, a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is both educational and moving, offering insight into Rwanda's past. Don’t miss a visit to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, known for its biodiversity and canopy walk. Lastly, explore Akagera National Park, where you can embark on a safari and spot Rwanda's diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras. These five activities are truly unforgettable, showcasing the best of Rwanda’s beauty and culture.

Top 5 Best Things to Do  in wanda on Your Visit

Rwanda is the smallest country in eastern Africa and was once feared by international tourists for its lack of safety. After fighting hard to escape the shadow of its haunting past, Rwanda is now able to show its true beauty to the world, which has become one of the safest territories in the world. The most beautiful natural scenery in the world. Is Rwanda worth a visit? It will take longer to respond, and there are more things you can do in Rwanda.

1. Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda is worth a visit for its beautiful and warm landscapes, vivid cultural heritage from its hospitable community, and epic wildlife. With a collection of beautiful scenery, Rwanda is a booming tourist destination that is safe and clean, making it worth visiting now more than ever.

The famous gorilla tracking is on top of the things to see in Rwanda. Most tourists visiting Rwanda have the gorilla trek as the primary tour and other tours as additions. Rwanda has a third of the world’s mountain gorilla population in Volcanoes National Park and an encounter with a family of these gentle giants in their natural environment is one of the best nature experiences ever. Also, the high fee means fewer crowds, making the experience more exclusive and enjoyable for those who can afford it.

Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park - one of the best things to see in Rwanda

2. Volcano hiking in the Virunga mountains

The impressive Virunga Mountains offer some of the most beautiful hiking adventures in the world. The Virunga Mountains form a chain of 8 large volcanoes that stretch between the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. 5 volcanoes on the border of Rwanda form the Volcanoes National Park. The most popular trek is to the beautiful crater lake at the summit of the Bisoke volcano (3711m) where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Virungas and see unique wildlife and encounter gorillas. Nature lovers and adventurous tourists can enjoy many other great authentic experiences on an African safari in the Virunga Mountains. These include forest walks, volcano hikes, and bird watching. Let's explore more about hiking to the various volcanoes in the area as it's one of the most interesting things to do in Rwanda Africa.

Volcano hiking in the Virunga mountains - one of the things to do in Rwanda Africa

3. Cycling/biking the Congo – Nile trail

Rwanda is a great cycling destination due to its dramatic lush hills and mountains, sprawling forests, and beautiful lake shores. The most popular cycling route in Rwanda is the Congo-Nile route, which starts in Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda and runs north along Lake Kivu at the foot of Mount Virunga.

The Congo - Nile route offers a 6/5 day cycling adventure with stops at beautiful Lake Kivu, the countryside, and sights. The route can be covered on foot, by bicycle, or by kayak. In the mountains and winding roads of Rwanda, the cycling team Team Africa Rising has risen to international success in recent years. Rwanda has also applied to host the 2025 cycling world championships. The cycling route and the Congo Nile hiking routes sometimes overlap and have slightly different overnight accommodations, so additional planning is required.

Cycling/biking the Congo – Nile trail - one of the things to do in Rwanda Africa

4. Visit King’s Palace Museum

The King’s Palace in Rwanda is a museum that gives tourists a glimpse into the country's monarchical past. Built in 1931 as the royal residence of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, the building is carefully and simply maintained with a thatched roof. The house itself is large and has panels (in English) depicting the first interactions between the indigenous people of Rwanda and European settlers. The entrance fee includes a bilingual guide to the complex.

Although Rwanda ceased to be a monarchy in 1962, the royal Inyambo herds living outside it continue to be a source of great concern for educators. The elegant cattle are often adorned with jewelry and even parade along when a lullaby is sung to them. The Ethnographic Museum and National Art Museum are consistently one of the best things to do in Rwanda for a day trip.

King’s Palace Museum - one of the best things to do in Rwanda

5. Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park

Going on a wildlife safari in Akagera National Park is probably an amazing thing to do in Rwanda Africa on the last day of the trip. The national park can be visited in different ways. It is possible to visit the park in your own car. In this case, you can only drive from some areas of the park and follow the road. Even with this option, knowing where the animals are is quite difficult, the last option is to walk in the park with the guard. Those who want to learn more about Akagera National Park can visit the museum at the visitor center to learn how the park has brought in animals and fought poachers over the past decades. If you're interested in conservation, you can also go behind the scenes where you'll meet people who work at the park and learn about conservation programs.

Last day of the trip at Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park

Things to Do in Rwanda: FAQs

What to Do in Rwanda?

Rwanda offers a variety of experiences, from thrilling gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to exploring Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk. You can also enjoy game drives in Akagera National Park, visit Lake Kivu for relaxation and water activities, or experience Kigali’s vibrant culture through its museums, markets, and coffee tours.

What to See in Rwanda?

Rwanda is home to incredible sights like the Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, the scenic Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and the stunning Akagera Savannah with diverse wildlife. The Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a deep historical perspective, while the lush tea plantations of Gisovu provide breathtaking views.

What to Visit in Rwanda?

Key places to visit in Rwanda include Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, and Akagera National Park for a classic safari experience. Don't miss Lake Kivu for a lakeside retreat, or Kimironko Market in Kigali for local crafts and culture.

When is the best time to visit Rwanda?

The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking. The wet seasons, from March to May and October to November, are less crowded and offer lush landscapes.

Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers. The government prioritizes tourism safety, and the country has a low crime rate. However, standard travel precautions should still be observed.

What is the currency used in Rwanda?

The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency. US dollars are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are commonly used in urban centers, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

How do I obtain a visa for Rwanda?

Rwanda offers eVisa for many nationalities. Alternatively, visas can be apply online through the Rwanda Immigration website. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

What languages are spoken in Rwanda?

Kinyarwanda, French, and English are the official languages. English is widely spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations. Learning a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda can enhance interactions with locals.

Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of?

Rwandans are known for their hospitality. It's customary to greet people with a handshake. When visiting villages or cultural sites, it's respectful to ask for permission before taking photographs.

Conclusion

For a safe trip to Rwanda, international travelers are advised to apply for a Rwanda Visa Online. With our experienced staff, we can make it easier for you to get an e-Visa for your trip to Rwanda. Before applying, you can read more about Rwanda's visa requirements for international visitors here. Let's start this tour of Rwanda right away!