Rwanda: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Rwanda has changed into a warm welcome for visitors with lots to see and do. This guide will show you the best spots in Rwanda. You’ll see everything from the famous Volcanoes National Park to the lively Kigali city. And don’t miss the peaceful Lake Kivu and the unique cultural experiences.

But what makes Rwanda so special for travelers? Let’s dive in and find out.

• Rwanda is a top spot for gorilla trekking, with half the world’s mountain gorillas living there.
• Kigali gives you a peek into Rwandan culture and history, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
• Akagera National Park is where you can see the Big Five and many other animals.
• Nyungwe Forest National Park has a cool canopy walkway and great birdwatching.
• Rwanda’s food and coffee are famous worldwide, offering a tasty cultural adventure.

Get ready for an amazing gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This experience lets you see mountain gorillas up close in their natural home. Rwanda has the most mountain gorillas in the world, making it a dream trip for many.

As you walk through Volcanoes National Park’s green landscapes, you’ll see mountain gorillas in their natural setting. With only about 1,000 mountain gorillas left, this is a rare chance to meet these gentle giants. It’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever.

Rwanda works hard to protect the mountain gorillas and their home. They limit the number of people who can see the gorillas each day. This helps keep the gorillas safe and ensures a special experience for everyone.

Join this incredible journey to the world of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll find amazing gorilla trekking and important conservation work happening together.

Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is a city full of life. It shows the country’s past, present, and future. Two places are a must-see: the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the lively arts and culture scene.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s sad past. Over 250,000 people lost their lives in the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. The memorial offers exhibitions and memorials that help visitors understand this tragedy and the strength of the Rwandan people.

• Experience Rwandan art at the Inema Arts Center. You can see live shows and check out paintings, sculptures, and installations.
• Visit the Caplaki Crafts Village for artisanal workshops and shops. Here, you’ll find amazing Rwandan crafts like wood carvings and textiles.
• Feel the lively Kimironko Market. It’s full of the sights, sounds, and tastes of Rwandan culture, including traditional food and crafts.
• Learn about Rwandan art at the Rwanda Art Museum. It has a big collection of contemporary and traditional Rwandan art.

By visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial and diving into the city’s arts and culture, you’ll see the strength and creativity of the Rwandan people.

If you’re looking for a classic African safari, Akagera National Park in Rwanda is the place to be. It’s near the Tanzania border and is full of wildlife. It’s a great addition to gorilla trekking in the country.

Akagera National Park has beautiful savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. These places are home to many animals. With a guided tour, you can see the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos.

You’ll also see giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and over 550 bird species. The park has black and white colobus monkeys, Kobs, and many other animals. It’s a true safari experience that shows off Rwanda’s wildlife.

Akagera National Park is just a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali. It’s perfect for any safari lover. You can see the Big Five or just enjoy the beautiful wildlife and landscapes. It’s an unforgettable experience.

After trekking with gorillas, visitors can relax by Lake Kivu. This beautiful lake is a great place for peace and quiet. Rubavu, at the lake’s edge, is famous for its sandy beaches and old mansions. It’s also great for enjoying sunset views at lively bars.

The Congo Nile Trail is perfect for those who love adventure. It’s a 227-kilometer path that goes through villages and banana plantations by the lake. Along the way, you’ll see amazing views of the lake and hills.

You can rent boats to see the calm waters of Lake Kivu and visit its islands. The lake is safe for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Anglers can catch Blue-spotted tilapia and Nile tilapia in the lake.

“Lake Kivu is a true gem, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for travelers seeking to unwind after the excitement of gorilla trekking.”

Lake Kivu is known for its beauty, culture, and activities. It’s a top spot for anyone visiting Rwanda.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is in the south of Rwanda. It’s a vast montane rainforest full of diverse plants and animals. This place is a dream for nature lovers who want to dive deep into the rainforest.

Visitors can trek to see chimpanzees in their natural setting. Nyungwe Forest has the second-largest chimpanzee group in the area, after Uganda’s Kibale National Park. The best time to see these amazing creatures is from December to February and June to mid-September.

The park is also home to other primates like the Ruwenzori black-and-white colobus monkey. This monkey has the biggest group in Africa.

For a special view of the rainforest, try the only canopy walkway in East Africa. This 160-meter walkway is suspended 70 meters high. It lets you see the forest canopy and mountains from above.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is perfect for nature fans. It offers hiking, birdwatching, and tracking primates. With its beautiful landscapes, lots of wildlife, and conservation work, it’s a top spot for exploring Rwanda’s nature.

Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and historical significance. Whether you want exciting wildlife, cultural immersion, or quiet reflection, Rwanda has it all.

One top attraction is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can meet the rare mountain gorillas up close. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is another key spot. It honors Rwanda’s past and teaches about the 1994 genocide and the country’s strength.

1. Visit the lively city of Kigali to see its art, markets, and history.
2. Go on a safari in Akagera National Park to see the Big Five and more in the wild.
3. Enjoy the calm of Lake Kivu with water sports and scenic hikes.
4. See chimpanzees and other primates in the wild at Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Rwanda has something for every interest, from the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza to the Ethnographic Museum in Butare. You can also visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to learn about the culture. Or check out the Gishwati Mukura National Park and its conservation work.

Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes, rich wildlife, and deep history make it a memorable destination. Discover the best of this amazing country and start an unforgettable journey in Africa.

“Rwanda is a country of a thousand hills, but it is also a country of a thousand delights for the discerning traveler.” – Unknown

Step back in time at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. It’s 88 km south of Kigali and shows the rich history of the Rwandan monarchy. This museum complex is a unique look into the country’s royal past.

The museum’s main attraction is a 15th-century royal palace. It was built with traditional materials and methods. Walking through its corridors and chambers feels like stepping into the Rwandan monarchy’s past. You’ll learn about the customs, rituals, and daily life of the royal family.

One key spot is the former home of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, Rwanda’s last king. Here, you can see where the king lived and understand more about the monarchy’s history and traditions.

The museum also has the famous inyambo cattle. These animals are looked after and sung to by skilled musicians. In Rwandan culture, these long-horned cattle were very important and played a big part in the monarchy.

At the King’s Palace Museum, you’ll dive deep into the Rwandan monarchy’s history. You’ll also appreciate the country’s rich culture and lasting traditions.

In the heart of Butare, the Ethnographic Museum is a key spot for learning about Rwanda’s culture. It has a vast collection of artifacts that show the country’s history and traditions before colonization.

Walking through the museum, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. You’ll see traditional clothes, farming tools, musical instruments, and even live craft shows. These items let you peek into the everyday life and customs of the Rwandan people.

One highlight is Hall 2, which talks about Rwanda’s geography and geology. You’ll learn about the Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu, among other natural wonders.

Seven exhibition halls await you, each filled with the creativity of Rwandan people. Hall 4 shows off traditional household items like pottery and wooden shields. Each piece shows the skill and creativity of its maker.

Then, Hall 6 takes you into the heart of Rwandan culture. You’ll see traditional games, sports, and the colorful costumes of the Intore dancers. It’s a way to really feel the culture’s energy and variety.

The Ethnographic Museum in Butare is perfect for those wanting to learn more about Rwanda’s history and culture. Its amazing artifacts and interactive displays offer a deep dive into the soul of this African nation.

Just outside Volcanoes National Park, the Gorilla Guardians Village lets travelers dive into local Rwandan life. This project brings together reformed poachers, native people, and kids. You can learn about their traditions, see cultural shows, and join in on community tasks.

The Gorilla Guardians Village shows you life in Rwanda beyond the usual tourist spots. You’ll meet locals, see their daily life, and learn about the Rwandan traditions that define their culture.

At the Gorilla Guardians Village, you can:

• Talk with former poachers who now protect gorillas
• Watch and join in on traditional Rwandan dances
• See how local crafts like basket weaving and pottery are made
• Meet community members and learn about their daily lives and Rwandan traditions
• Work together with villagers on projects like farming or building

This community-based tourism lets you connect with locals, understand their culture, and help preserve their traditions.

“The Gorilla Guardians Village provides a window into the authentic Rwandan culture and way of life. It’s an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the community and learn from the local people.”

For both new and experienced travelers, the Gorilla Guardians Village is a special place. It offers a chance to deeply appreciate Rwanda’s Rwandan traditions and community-based tourism efforts.

Gishwati Mukura National Park is hidden in Rwanda’s lush west. It’s a gem waiting for explorers. Here, you can see a vibrant rainforest and go on treks to find wildlife like chimpanzees and golden monkeys.

Visiting Gishwati Mukura National Park lets you see primates in their home. You might see about 20 eastern chimpanzees or the rare golden monkeys. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers, with 395 species, including 232 in the Gishwati Forest.

The park is working hard to protect its beauty. Groups like the Forest of Hope Association have helped restore 67% of the Gishwati woodland since 2011. Visitors can also learn about local traditions through community tourism.

Whether you’re into primates, birds, or conservation, Gishwati Mukura National Park offers a unique experience. It’s a chance to connect with Rwanda’s natural beauty and its people.

In the heart of Kigali, the National Arts Gallery is a key spot for art lovers. It’s where you can see paintings, sculptures, and interactive exhibits. These pieces are by Rwandan artists and famous artists from around the world.

Walking through the gallery, you’ll see a wide variety of art. It shows Rwanda’s rich culture and its growing creativity. You’ll find everything from bright paintings to deep-thinking installations. These pieces give you a peek into the rich world of Rwandan art.

The gallery is big on contemporary art in Rwanda. It has shows, workshops, and talks by Rwandan artists. This helps both new and known artists share their views with people everywhere.

At the gallery, you’ll see amazing art and learn about the artists’ skills and ideas. You’ll also understand how Rwanda’s culture, politics, and history shape its art. This makes the National Arts Gallery special.

“The National Arts Gallery is a testament to Rwanda’s thriving creative spirit, showcasing the country’s diverse artistic talents and their power to inspire, challenge, and transform.”

Whether you love art or just want to learn about Rwanda’s culture, visiting the National Arts Gallery is a great choice. You’ll be amazed by the art that shows Rwanda’s unique culture and creativity.

No trip to Rwanda is complete without trying its tasty local food and famous coffee. Rwandan dishes mix African and global tastes, letting travelers dive into the country’s unique food culture. Plus, Rwanda is known for its excellent coffee. Visitors can check out local coffee plantations and roasteries to taste it for themselves.

Rwandan food has many staple dishes that show off the country’s diverse culture and farming. Enjoy the rich taste of ugali, a thick cornmeal porridge, or the creamy isombe stew with cassava leaves and peanut sauce. Make sure to try matoke, a traditional dish of steamed and mashed green bananas, a key food in the African Great Lakes area.

In cities like Kigali, you’ll find a mix of East African, European, Chinese, and Indian foods. Try brochettes, grilled meat skewers, agatogo stew, a tasty mix of veggies and meat, or the delicious akabenz barbecue pork.

About half a million small farmers grow coffee in Rwanda, with the best coffee coming from around Gisenyi, near Lake Kivu. You can learn about coffee culture by visiting places like Question Coffee and Rubia Coffee Roasters in Kigali. These spots help local farmers and help the coffee industry grow.

Tea is also big in Rwanda, especially outside Kigali. It’s often sweetened with milk and sugar and drunk all day. For a real Rwandan taste, try urwagwa, a banana beer from rural areas. It’s made by fermenting bananas underground and adding millet or sorghum with honey for flavor.

“Experiencing the flavors of Rwandan cuisine and coffee is a true highlight of any visit to this captivating country.”

Rwanda is a top spot for travelers looking for more than just gorilla trekking. The vibrant city of Kigali and its stunning landscapes offer many activities. You can enjoy wildlife, outdoor adventures, or learn about local life.

The country’s varied landscapes, like mountains, forests, lakes, and savannas, are perfect for different activities. You can visit the amazing Volcanoes National Park or relax by Lake Kivu. There’s also a rich cultural heritage to explore in museums, markets, and community projects.

When planning your trip, know that Rwanda values sustainability and conservation. It aims to be plastic-free and protects its wildlife. By visiting, you help preserve its natural and cultural beauty.