The four breathtaking national parks that showcase the country’s natural beauty and biodiversity are among the best places to go in Rwanda for adventure in Africa. From the misty slopes of the Volcanoes National Park to Nyungwe’s ancient primate-filled forests, Gishwati’s unique Nile/Congo ecosystem, and the vast savannah plains of Akagera, Rwanda’s parks provide an excellent getaway for adventure safari tours.
On your visit to Rwanda on an African safari holiday, journey to the country’s national parks for the most rewarding safari experience in Africa.
Rwanda’s answer to the typical East African savannah park landscape of vast plains and endless skies, Akagera National Park is one of the best tourist places in Rwanda to go to for a safari. This 1,122 square kilometer reserve is in the east of the country along the Akagera River, straddling the border with Tanzania.
Akagera is notable for its remarkable biodiversity and large volumes of wildlife, including the popular ‘Big Five’ (elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffalo). The park’s patchwork of varied ecosystems creates an avian hotspot featuring numerous bird species, making Akagera excellent for birding safaris, and one of the best tourist attractions in Rwanda.
Tourist Attractions in Akagera National Park:
| · Akagera River | · Conservation Initiatives |
| · Lake Ihema | · Scenic Views |
| · Diverse wildlife | · Unique Vegetation (grasslands, wetlands, forests) |
Activities in Akagera:
| · Bird Watching | · Nature Walks |
| · Game Drives | · Sightseeing |
| · Boat Trips (Lake Ihema) | · Sport fishing |
| · Conservation Tourism/Volunteering (Lion & Rhino reintroduction) | |
Accommodation in Akagera National Park:
| · Mantis Akagera Game Lodge | · Ruzizi Tented Lodge |
| · Magashi Safari Camp | · Vintage Cottages |
Enjoy luxury, tranquility, and utmost relaxation on your Akagera National Park tour for great adventure safaris in Rwanda…
Another of the best places to go in Rwanda is the Volcanoes National Park, whose landscape is dominated by the spectacular Virunga mountain range at the border with Uganda and the DRC.
This is the only national park in Rwanda where the famed mountain gorillas are found. Their habituated troops, led by silverback males, are usually encountered during Rwanda gorilla trekking through the otherworldly cloud forests.
Alongside these gentle giants, more primates such as black and white colobus monkeys and golden monkeys, as well as numerous other animal and bird species, can be sighted on a Rwanda volcanoes safari.
Volcanoes National Park Attractions:
| · Mountain Gorillas | · Volcano Hiking Trails |
| · Volcanoes: Gahinga, Sabinyo, Muhavura, Visoke, & Karisimbi | · Caves |
| · Rwanda’s Highest Point, Mt. Karisimbi, | · Stunning Scenery |
| · Dian Fossey Grave | · Biodiversity: Plants, Animals, Birds, etc. |
| · The Karisoke Research Center | |
Activities in Volcanoes Park, Rwanda:
| · Gorilla Trekking | · Cycling Tours |
| · Golden Monkey Trekking | · Hiking/Volcano Climbing |
| · Primate Viewing | · Cave Exploration |
| · Birding Safaris | · Dian Fossey Gorilla Trail Trek |
| · Foot Safaris | · Cultural Tours (Gorilla Guardians Village) |
Volcano National Park Accommodation:
| · Gorilla Nest Lodge | · Wilderness Sabyinyo |
| · My Hill Eco Lodge | · Amarembo By Touchdown |
| · Sambora Kinigi Lodge | · Amakoro Songa Lodge |
| · Virunga Inn Resort & Spa | · Virunga Homestay |
| · Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel | · Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel |
Embark on an epic visit to Rwanda for an up-close encounter with the enigmatic gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Visit Rwanda’s famous thousand hills, and marvel at the breathtaking terrain in the west of the country that encompasses Nyungwe National Park. Nyungwe is located in the southwestern region of the country and is one of the best places in Rwanda for an adventure in Africa.
The park’s diverse ecosystems, some of which can be viewed from a spectacular canopy walk offer a natural habitat for many animals, including many endemic Central African species. This diversity has led to the forest’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Primates are particularly abundant in Nyungwe Forest, with 13 species present, including East Africa’s densest troops of black and white colobus monkeys. Also present are chimpanzees, making Nyungwe National Park a prime African safari holiday destination among other African parks in primates’ diversity.
Attractions of Nyungwe Forest National Park:
| · Primate diversity, including chimpanzees | · Africa’s largest Afro-montane forest |
| · Large biodiversity | · Furthest source of the Nile River |
| · Stunning landscape | · Mt. Bigugu & Ngabwe Trails |
| · Gisakura & Cymudongo forest areas | · Over 300 bird species |
| · Nyungwe Canopy Walk | · Congo Nile Trail |
Activities in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda:
| · Chimpanzee Trekking | · Cycling Tours |
| · Primate Viewing | · Tea plantation tours |
| · Bird Watching | · Camping |
| · Forest Walks | · Biking |
| · Visit Kitabi Cultural Village | · Visit the headwaters of the River Nile |
Nyungwe National Park Accommodation:
| · Nyungwe Forest Lodge | · Kitabi Eco Center |
| · Nyungwe Eco Village | · Rutete Eco Lodge |
| · One & Only Nyungwe House | · Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge |
| · Inzu Lodge | · Virunga Lodge |
| · Kiningi Cottage | · Sambora Kinigi |
Travel to Rwanda’s serene Nyungwe Forest National Park for an exclusive canopy walk and birding experience in one of the best tourist attractions in Rwanda.
Gishwati Mukura National Park
Another of the best tourist places to see in Rwanda is the enchanting Gishwati Mukura National Park. On your visit to Rwanda, explore the country’s smallest and newest park, which was established in 2015 as a nature restoration program to preserve central African forest remnants.
The revitalized park consists of two main forest areas, Mukura and the larger Gishwati, comprising dense Afromontane jungles that are teeming with wildlife, including primates and rare birds which are encountered during Rwanda birding safaris.
Also notable about the park is that it contains the Congo/Nile river systems divide, where both streams originate, adding to the natural beauty and allure of a great adventure safari.
Attractions in Gishwati Mukura National Park:
- Diverse wildlife, including chimpanzees
- Stunning scenery
- The Congo Nile Trail
- Waterfall trail
- Gishwati-Mukura Mountain
Exciting Activities in Gishwati Mukura National Park:
| · Chimpanzee trekking | · Waterfall trek |
| · Golden monkey trekking | · Rafting in Mubuku River |
| · Bird watching | · Hiking to Gishwati Peak |
| · Nature walks | · Farm stays |
Gishwati Mukura Accommodation:
| · Gishwati Lodge | · Uwinka Visitor Center Campsite |
| · Comoran Lodge | · Peace Guest Hotel |
| · Gisakura Family Hostel | · KCCEM Guesthouse |
Visit Gishwati Mukura National Park for an exclusive and unforgettable adventure in Africa on your Rwanda tour.
Rwanda Mountains
For a safari in Rwanda, explore the country’s high mountains and admire the natural beauty they present for tourists. The beautiful country features scenic, towering mountains that are some of the best places to visit on a safari.
A tourist in Rwanda’s mountains will enjoy stunning views while exploring the planet’s most coveted species, including the critically endangered mountain gorillas.
Explore Rwanda’s mountains for exciting hiking activities in beautiful surroundings on your adventure in Africa.
Mt. Karisimbi
If what to visit in Rwanda are the country’s high peaks, then Mt. Karisimbi should be your next destination for an adventure in Africa.
Soaring over Rwanda’s undulating landscape to an incredible 4,507 meters, Mt. Karisimbi is the country’s highest point, and one of the best tourist places to visit in Rwanda.
As part of the Virunga volcanoes, Mt. Karisimbi is flanked by Muhavura, Mikeno, Visoke, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo, collectively forming a circuit for great adventure safaris.
Volcanoes National Park encompasses all of Mt. Karisimbi alongside adjoining volcanoes, creating a natural habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas and other endemic wildlife seen on a visit to Rwanda.
Mt. Karisimbi Rwanda Attractions:
| · Karisoke Research Center | · Mountain Gorillas |
| · Dian Fossey Tomb Trail | · Species biodiversity (including primates) |
| · Scenic Views of Nyiragongo Volcano | · Cultural Experience |
| · Hiking Trails | · Nature Trails |
Activities at Mt. Karisimbi:
| · Mountain Climbing/Hiking | · Gorilla Trekking |
| · Nature Walks | · Primate Tracking |
| · Birding | · Sightseeing |
| · Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village | · Attend the annual gorilla naming ceremony known as Kwita Izina |
Mt. Karisimbi Accommodation:
| · Comfortable cabins and huts at camps along the climbing trail | · Gorilla Mountain View Lodge |
| · Karisimbi Cave Resort | · Bisate Lodge |
| · Wilderness Sabyinyo | · Karisimbi Camp Site (Backpacking) |
Mt. Kigali
Looming over the western reaches of Kigali City, Mt. Kigali offers unrivaled views across the mountainous horizon and is a major draw for tourists on travel to Rwanda.
The gigantic ridge, which is situated a short distance from the city center, offers exciting opportunities for an African adventure. There are excellent day hiking trails, with various entry points along the track depending on physical ability.
Mt. Kigali is an ideal spot for interaction with local communities, with hikers able to relate to the local people during the trek. Biking provides an all-around destination for thrill seekers and adrenaline buffs on a Rwanda safari, conveniently located near Kigali’s modern central business district.
Attractions of Mt. Kigali:
| · Spectacular Views of Kigali City to as far as Gisenyi | · Mt. Jali |
| · Hiking Trails | · Picnic Sites |
| · Biking Tracks | |
Mt. Kigali Activities:
| · Quad Biking | · Sightseeing |
| · Mountain Biking | · Community Interaction |
| · Trekking/Hiking | · Bird watching |
Mt. Kigali Accommodation:
Owing to Mt. Kigali’s location within the Kigali metropolitan area, accommodation is abundant in the city and its suburbs.
Other mountains to visit in Rwanda include:
- Mt. Mikeno 4,437m
- Mt. Muhabura 4,127m
- Mt. Bisoke 3,711m
- Mt. Sabyinyo 3,669m
- Mt. Gahinga 3,474m
Explore Rwanda’s mountains for a unique blend of ecotourism, adventure, leisurely challenges, cultural encounters, and conservation tourism all in one on your African safari in Rwanda.
Rwanda Lakes
A visit to Rwanda reveals a collection of picturesque lakes spread across its stunning landscapes, creating some of the best tourist places to go in the country.
There are various enchanting lakes in Rwanda, from scenic fjord-like mountain lakes in the volcanoes area to the gigantic voluminous expanse of Lake Kivu in the Rift Valley. Rwanda’s lakes provide an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and thrill seekers alike, promising a great adventure safari experience.
Travel to Rwanda’s awe-inspiring lakes and encounter nature in its unrefined form on your adventure in Africa.
Lake Kivu in the west at the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, and a thrilling destination of what to visit in Rwanda.
The lake is flanked by the rift’s sheer escarpments and lofty volcanoes, including the highly active Nyiragongo Volcano and Nyamuragira in the Congo. Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest lake, containing astonishing biodiversity and bustling cities along its scenic shores, guaranteed to delight a tourist to Rwanda.
In the cities of Gisenyi, Cyangugu, and Kibuye, plush resorts line the lake, and vibrant beachside locations are popular with tourists on safari in Rwanda. Travelers exploring Lake Kivu gain insight into the region’s complex geography and Rwandan culture, with opportunities for fun activities whilst doing so.
Lake Kivu Attractions:
| · Lakeside cities (Kibuye, Cyangugu, Gisenyi) | · Wildlife |
| · Expansive beaches | · Interesting rock formations & waterfalls |
| · Water sports | · Kibuye Genocide Memorial |
Activities in Lake Kivu:
| · Canoeing & Kayaking | · Biking |
| · Boat cruise & Launch trips | · Bird watching |
| · Ferry journeys | · Nature walks |
| · Interacting with local communities | · Rock climbing |
| · Island visits | · Sightseeing |
| · Swimming | |
Lake Kivu has some of the best places to stay in Rwanda. There are luxurious hotels in Kibuye and other locations, including:
| · Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel | · Umutuzo Lodge |
| · Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Gisenyi | · Paradise Malahide |
| · Inzu Lodge | · Emeraude Kivu Resort |
Rwanda Twin Lakes: Lake Burera & Ruhondo
Together with the adjoining Lake Ruhondo, Lake Burera is one of the best tourist places to visit for a safari in Rwanda. Jointly known as the ‘Twin Lakes,’ both bodies are in northern Rwanda in the Volcanoes National Park area, close to Musanze town.
The steep elevation variation of 600 meters between the two lakes creates a dramatic drop from Burera to Ruhondo, featuring spectacular cascading waterfalls and rich fauna, perfect for an adventure in Africa.
The region boasts scenic views at the base of the Virunga Mountains, which are famed for gorilla tracking and hiking.
Lake Burera Attractions:
- Spectacular views
- Ntakura Stream (connecting the twin lakes)
- Waterfalls
- Villages & Farms
Activities at Lake Burera:
| · Biking trips | · Artisanal fishing with the local fishermen |
| · Boat rides/canoeing | · Community tours |
| · Birding | · Picnicking & Camping |
| · Walking tours | · Sightseeing |
| · Swimming | · Foothill Farms in Musanze |
Lake Burera Accommodation:
| · My Hill Eco Lodge | · Frama Eco Lodge |
| · Lake Ruhondo Beach Resort | · Virunga Lodge |
| · Farmhouse Rwanda (Kinigi) | |
Other Beautiful Lakes In Rwanda
- Lake Cyohoha South
- Lake Ihema
- Lake Muhazi
- Lake Rweru
Visit the delightful twin lakes of Rwanda, and enjoy the luxurious lakeside resorts of Kivu as part of your exclusive Rwanda safari adventure in Africa!
Rivers In Rwanda
Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Rwanda are the country’s diverse rivers. With a size comparable to the US state of Maryland, Rwanda encompasses a surprisingly complex labyrinth of waterways, each displaying unique characteristics and appeal. They are;
Kagera River
At almost 600 kilometers long and originating in Lake Rweru, the historic Kagera River encompasses some of the best places to go on a visit in Rwanda. The river’s source in the upper reaches of the Nyabarongo River forms the headwaters of the much-sought-after source of the Nile.
Along its northbound course, the Kagera plunges over the dramatic Rusumo Falls before nourishing the lush plains of the Akagera National Park, while affording picturesque views of one of the most stunning landscapes in Rwanda for an African safari holiday.
Kagera River Attractions:
| · Kagera River | · Verdant riverine flora |
| · Rusumo Falls | · Lake Rweru & Shakana |
| · Akagera National Park | · Abundant wildlife & species distinction |
Kagera River Activities:
| · Game viewing in Akagera NP | · Outdoor thrilling activities e.g. quad biking, horseback safaris, mountain biking |
| · Birding | · Water activities: boat cruises, canoeing |
| · Foot safaris | · Camping & picnicking |
| · Cultural tours | · Volunteering in nature conservation (Akagera Rhino & Lion projects) |
There is luxury accommodation within the Akagera National Park and in the urban centers near the river. Some options are given below.
| · Akagera Rhino Lodge | · Ihema Lodges |
| · Akagera Transit Lodge | · Ruzizi Tented Lodge |
| · Mantis Akagera Game Lodge | · UMVA Muhazi |
More Rivers In Rwanda:
Other outstanding rivers to consider for a Rwanda adventure safari include the Nyabarongo, Rusizi, Rukarara, Kagitumba, and Akanyaru rivers.
Often overlooked by mass tourism, Rwanda’s rivers are some of the most thrilling destinations and provide great adventure safaris.
Major Cities In Rwanda
Cities bustling with activity, color, and culture are among what to visit in Rwanda. For its size, Rwanda has amazingly diverse cities, each showcasing a unique identity and offering custom experiences to excite travelers to the land of a thousand hills.
The City Of Kigali
Rwanda’s capital since the country’s independence in 1962, Kigali City is one of the most fascinating places for a tourist in Rwanda. Founded in 1907, Kigali is in the center of the country at an altitude of 1,567 meters above sea level, ensuring cool temperatures and pleasant ambiance all year.
The city’s unique location, dominated by the striking Mt. Kigali to the west, offers sweeping views across dramatic hills to neighboring provinces and as far away as the city of Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu.
With a vibrant culture and modern infrastructure including superb roads, glistening skyscrapers, expansive green spaces, and world-class establishments crowned by the sensational Kigali Convention Center, Kigali City is one of the top places to see in Rwanda.
Kigali Tourist Attractions:
| · Mt. Kigali: Prominent ridge in Kigali with off road trails offering panoramic views, nature walks, birding & spectacular sunsets | · Kigali Genocide Memorial, Gisozi: UNESCO World Heritage site commemorating the 1994 Rwanda genocide, containing remains of over 250,000 victims |
| · Nyamirambo Women’s Center: Cultural exchange & community center, offering cultural tours & workshops to empower local women | · Presidential Palace Museum: This gives insight into the genocide, with artefacts including wreckage of a crashed plane that led to the meltdown |
| · Kigali Convention Center: Modern conference facility featuring a stunning beehive design & dazzling LED kaleidoscopic light displays | · Lake Nyarutarama: Suburban lake with manicured grounds & walking trails, offering scenic views of the city’s plush golf course & environs |
| · Kigali International Airport (KGL): Regional hub for domestic & international departures/arrivals | · Kimironko Market: Fresh farm produce, general merchandise shopping, & interaction with locals |
| · Inema Arts Center: Curio shops, African crafts, Rwanda art museum, Traditional Intore dance performances | · Amahoro Stadium: This 45,000 capacity arena is Kigali’s premier sporting destination |
| · Niyo Art Center: Creativity hub offering space for Rwandan local artists & incorporates cultural/art exhibitions, workshops/events/networking, coffee shop, & resource center | · Mamba Club: Exciting location with a 6 lane bowling alley, tennis/volleyball courts, swimming pool, restaurant, bar & grill |
| · Kanyinya Canopy Walk: Suspended walkway on the outskirts of Kigali, offering breathtaking city & countryside views | |
Things to do in Kigali:
| · Kigali city tour: Visit major landmarks & enjoy the serenity, organization, & cleanliness of Kigali | · Visit the Kigali Public Library & enjoy a selection of hardcover & eBooks in a tranquil environment |
| · Bird watching on nature trails on Mt. Kigali, Lake Nyarutarama, Nyandungu Eco Park, & in urban parks | · Benefit from exciting outdoor activities including horseback riding, zip lining, quad biking, archery, paint balling, bungee jumping at Fazenda Sengha Country Club |
| · Revel in Kigali nightlife at pubs, cinemas, theatres, lounges, & game centers | · Relish Kigali cuisine: popular foods like isombe, specialty coffees like ‘a thousand hills coffee’ in quaint street side cafes, & fine dining in high end restaurants/hotels |
| · Attend basketball games & other sporting events in the ultra-modern Kigali Arena | · Take part in Kigali’s voluntary community clean-up execise, or Umuganda, every last Saturday of the month |
| · Visit the Presidential Palace Museum in Kanombe (former presidential palace) for insight into pre-genocide lifestyle of the slain head of state, featuring lavish décor of European style furniture | |
Accommodation in Kigali is available in various forms, from luxury world-class branded hotels to affordable guesthouses, apartments, and budget options, including Airbnb, to ensure comfort on your travel to Rwanda. Below are some:
| · Park Inn by Radisson Blu Kigali | · Kigali Marriott Hotel |
| · Kigali Serena Hotel | · Four Points by Sheraton Kigali |
| · Bonsai Villa Kigali | · Onomo Hotel Kigali |
Other Rwanda Cities:
There are other significant urban areas that are guaranteed to charm tourists on safari in Rwanda. These other towns/cities are among the best places to visit in Rwanda. They include:
- Gisenyi
Situated in the west on the shores of Lake Kivu, the resort town of Gisenyi is one of the largest cities in Rwanda. Its scenic lakeside location at high altitude surrounded by picturesque mountains is one of the city’s top tourist attractions. Visitors are drawn to the exciting activities that take place in and around the lake. The best resorts in Rwanda are along Lake Kivu’s golden shores and on a few idyllic islands, perfect for an African safari holiday.
- Butare
The capital of Huye district to the south, Butare, is the gateway to Nyungwe National Park and one of the tourist sites in Rwanda to go to. The city also features the Ethnographic Museum (part of Rwanda’s National Museums), dedicated to preserving the area’s rich history & diversity and Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.
- Musanze
Formerly known as Ruhengeri, Musanze in the north boasts the most spectacular skyline in all of Rwanda, with the Virunga mountain range forming the town’s dramatic backdrop. Activities in the area are centered on Rwanda gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park, adventure tours to the twin lakes, and community engagements in the nearby Gorilla Guardians Village.
Accommodation in Musanze can be found at the plush Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
For a true adventure in Africa, interspersed with fun activities and amazing attractions, visit Rwanda cities on your East Africa adventure tours.
Historical And Cultural Places in Rwanda
Some of the most outstanding tourist places in Rwanda are the country’s fascinating historical and cultural sites. Rwanda’s strategic location at the intersection of the ancient empires of East Africa’s Great Lakes region facilitated interactions with major kingdoms like Ankole that gave rise to a rich blend of Rwandan culture with remarkably unique traditions that enhance an adventure in Africa.
Sadly, the country’s more recent history involves horrific events that culminated in the 1994 genocide that are part of Rwanda’s past, nonetheless. As a means of closure and coping with the atrocities, the country has established several memorials across various sites as part of a ‘dark tourism’ circuit. These sites are now among the tourist attractions in Rwanda. We’ve explored some below.
King’s Palace Museum
Formerly an actual royal residence in the monarchy period, the King’s Palace in Butare (Huye) has been revamped and is now one of the best cultural tourist places in Rwanda to go to, as the King’s Palace Museum.
The location in Nyanza to the south is a relic of what was the ancient Kingdom of Rwanda’s capital city and most populous center in its heyday.
Today, as a means of preserving Rwanda’s cultural heritage for future generations, the King’s Palace has been restored to its former glory, complete with the giant grass-thatched beehive dome and intricately crafted finery that showcase superior skills in craftsmanship.
King’s Palace Museum Attractions:
| · The Palace’s main hut ‘Kambere’ & it’s unique architecture | · Mwima Mausoleum (resting place for Mutara III, Rwanda’s last monarch) |
| · Collection of traditional regalia & tribal artifacts | · Inyambo cattle (royal long horned Nkore cattle that are lavishly decorated) |
| · King’s Palace Museum (National Museum) | · Curio center/African crafts village |
King’s Palace Museum: What to Do
| · Guided tours around the grounds and the three royal huts | · Learn Rwanda’s history through songs and performances by royal herders |
| · Visit the Ethnographic Museum Rwanda (containing Africa’s finest ethnographic collections) | · Interactions with locals |
For a tourist in Rwanda visiting the King’s Palace Museum, accommodation can be found nearby in Butare town. Some noteworthy options include
| · Light House Hotel | · Barthos Hotel |
| · Hotel Maisons Sifa | · Heroes Motel |
| · Motel du Mont Huye | · Casa Hotel |
Other Historical/Cultural Sites in Rwanda:
| · Ntarama Church | · National History Museum/Kandt |
| · Our Lady of Kibeho Shrine | · Iby’iwacu Cultural Village |
| · Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial | · Kitabi Cultural Center |
| · Bisesero Genocide Memorial | · Banda Cultural Village, Nyungwe |
| · Nyamata Genocide Memorial | · Ndaba Rock |
Enrich your understanding of Rwanda’s prolific history and distinctive traditions with a tour of the country’s cultural attractions, including Africa’s finest ethnographic collections museum, and gorilla trekking safaris.
Tourist Places In Rwanda: Best Time To Travel
The places to visit in Rwanda are best appreciated in the dry seasons for outdoor activities like Rwanda gorilla trekking or viewing animals in Akagera National Park, although the country can be visited anytime.
Situated in the tropics, Rwanda’s climate overall is tempered by the location’s high altitude, with the whole country at an elevation above 1,000 meters, and featuring an annual cycle of two alternating wet and dry seasons.
- December to February (Dry Season)
- March to May (Rain season)
- June to September (Dry season)
- October to December (Rain)
Enjoy pleasant weather and reawaken your adventurous energy on your exciting visit to Rwanda.
Tourist Places In Rwanda: How To Get To Rwanda
Accessing the best places to go in Rwanda is through the following:
By Road:
Rwanda can be accessed overland through the following border crossings:
- Katuna & Mirama Hills (Uganda)
- Nemba Gasenyi (Burundi)
- Gisenyi, Cyangugu, Kibuye – Lake Kivu (DRC)
- Rusumo (Tanzania)
When you arrive, travel to the tourist attractions in Rwanda for your great adventure safari in Africa!
By Air:
Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s main international aviation hub, serves destinations within the country, regionally, & beyond. Destinations include Entebbe, Nairobi, Johannesburg, London, Dubai, Brussels, Lagos, etc.
The national airline, RwandAir, has flights to African countries like Uganda, Kenya, Zambia, etc.; the Middle East; Europe; and Asia.
Upon arrival, embark on your adventure in Africa to discover what to see in Rwanda…
Places To Go In Rwanda: Travel To Rwanda Requirements
As you plan your African safari, these are the necessary items to pack so as to enjoy the most extraordinary adventure as you visit Rwanda.
| Travel Documents | Passport & visa, tickets/boarding pass, yellow fever & COVID-19 vaccination certificate (preferably with copies) |
| Clothing | Comfortable fabrics (cotton/linen), long-sleeved shirts/t-shirts, pants: jeans/khakis, vests, shorts, swimwear, warm clothing: jacket/sweater, raincoat, scarf, socks, & gloves |
| Footwear | Strong hiking boots, sneakers, sandals/slippers |
| Toiletries | Toothbrush & toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hand sanitizer, wipes, insect repellent, lotion/moisturizer, lip balm |
| Devices | Power bank, phone charger, travel adapter, earbuds, GPS tool |
| Additional Items | Camera, binoculars, sunglasses, flashlight, hat, small bag, face masks, cash, water bottle/flask, snacks, essential medical prescriptions |
Confirming your baggage alongside a checklist, and inquiry from your travel agent or a reputable tour operator will ensure a hassle-free and seamless visit to Rwanda.
Tourist Places To Visit In Rwanda: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most famous thing in Rwanda?
Mountain gorilla tourism and gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park is the most famous thing in Rwanda.
What are 3 dark tourism sites in Rwanda?
These are the genocide memorial sites where horrendous atrocities were committed during the infamous 1994 Rwanda Genocide and have become tourist attractions in Rwanda.
They have been turned into some of the museums in Rwanda for dark tourism. These are a few of the genocide memorials in Rwanda:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Murambi Genocide Memorial
- Nyanza Genocide Memorial
What is Rwanda popular for?
Rwanda is popular for the following activities:
- Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes Park
- Primate viewing in Nyungwe
- Game drives in Akagera
- Community/Cultural tours
- Numerous museums, including the Ethnographic Museum, & the presidential palace museum in Kigali
Why do tourists visit Rwanda?
Tourists visit Rwanda to enjoy the following:
- Mountain gorilla safaris
- Scenic views
- Abundant wildlife
- Rich culture, e.g. traditional showcases at the Inema Art Center
- Historical aspect, e.g. genocide memorials
What is the most beautiful city in Rwanda?
Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city, is the most beautiful city and one of the best tourist places in Rwanda. It is the cleanest city in Africa and incorporates a blend of vibrant cultures, giving it a metropolitan aura.
The city also features some popular historical places, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the ethnographic museum, which should be bucket list destinations on a safari in Rwanda.
Great adventure safaris await travelers to Rwanda. There is something on offer for everyone because the country is an all-round destination, anytime. Choose Rwanda as your next preferred destination for an unforgettable vacation in the enchanting ‘Land of a Thousand Hills!
