9 Best Things to Do in Rwanda – Plan Your Next Trip

Rwanda is a beautiful country with lots to see and do. You can find amazing animals like mountain gorillas in thick forests, enjoy peaceful lakes, and explore colorful cultural spots. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, people who love nature, and those interested in different cultures.

You can hike in the Volcanoes National Park to see wildlife or check out Kigali’s tasty food and cool markets. This guide will show you the best places and secret spots in Rwanda to make your trip awesome.

Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places to visit in Rwanda. It’s known for its rare mountain gorillas. The park offers stunning views of volcanic landscapes, too.

Guided treks let you see gorillas up close. This experience is unforgettable. It requires booking in advance due to limited spots.

Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. It’s famous for a canopy walkway high above the trees. This forest is home to chimpanzees and other primates.

Visitors can explore walking trails under the canopy. Seeing wildlife here is an adventure not to miss.

Akagera National Park stands out as Rwanda’s only Big Five safari spot. Its landscape includes savannahs, wetlands, and lakes.

Boat tours on Lake Ihema are popular here. They offer unique views of animals by the water.

Gisenyi boasts beautiful beaches along Lake Kivu’s shores.

• Offers hot springs and waterfront resorts.
• Acts as a gateway to the Congo Nile Trail.

It’s perfect for relaxation after trekking adventures.

Kibuye, another gem on Lake Kivu, is great for water sports.

• Known for its scenic beauty.
• Close to islands that are worth exploring.

This town promises tranquility and fun activities.

Cyangugu lies at the southern end of Lake Kivu.

• Near Nyungwe Forest, it is ideal for primate tracking.
• Rusizi National Park nearby adds more options for nature lovers.

Its location makes it special for those looking to explore further.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as a somber reminder of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. It is not just a memorial but also an educational center. Visitors can learn about the history of genocide through its exhibits. The site serves as the final resting place for over 250,000 victims.

This memorial helps us remember the lives lost and teaches important lessons about peace and humanity. By visiting, people pay respects to those who suffered during those tragic times. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to understand Rwanda’s past deeply.

Nestled in Nyanza, the King’s Palace Museum offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s royal heritage. This traditional royal residence showcases how Rwanda’s kings once lived. The museum is also home to sacred Inyambo cows, known for their impressive horns.

Visitors can explore various artifacts that highlight Rwanda’s rich history and cultural practices related to royalty. The presence of Inyambo cows adds a unique touch, showcasing an aspect of Rwandan culture that many might not be familiar with.

Located in Butare, southern Rwanda, the Ethnographic Museum houses one of Africa’s finest ethnographic collections. This museum provides deep insights into Rwandan culture and history through its diverse exhibits.

From traditional tools to ceremonial outfits, each item tells a story about Rwanda’s way of life before modern influences took hold. A visit here enriches understanding of how Rwandans have lived across different ages.

If you want to really get what traditional Rwandan life is like, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is the place to go. You can join in on dancing, drumming, and archery with the locals.

It’s a cool way to learn about their customs and traditions by actually doing things together, not just watching. You get to see up close why Rwandan culture is so lively and strong.

Plus, after seeing amazing places like volcanoes or rainforests, checking out these cultural spots adds more to why Rwanda is unique. Each place tells a story that helps you appreciate Rwanda’s beauty and complexity even more.

After you’ve visited Rwanda’s amazing cultural spots, the city life of Kigali offers an exciting next chapter of your trip. Think about renting a car to check out Kigali’s busy places, where old traditions and new, modern life mix together perfectly.

Driving in Rwanda gives you a special chance to see its stunning landscapes and lively cities whenever you want. But, if you’re visiting from another country, you must get an international driving permit to drive legally on the roads. This rule helps ensure drivers from other places know the local driving rules and standards, making travel safer and more fun.

So, before you start a road trip through the country, be sure to get your international driving permit in Rwanda. This will help ensure your trip through Rwanda’s beautiful scenery goes smoothly.

Kimironko Market stands out as the bustling hub of commerce in Kigali. It’s where locals and tourists gather to shop for various items. From colorful fabrics to handcrafted goods, this market has it all.

Shopping here is not just about buying; it’s an experience. You can find fresh produce straight from Rwandan farms. The variety is amazing: fruits, vegetables, spices, and more. People love bargaining here, too. It adds to the fun!

The Kigali Arts Center is a beacon for art lovers visiting Rwanda’s capital. This center celebrates local talent through exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year.

It supports local artists by giving them a platform to showcase their work. Visitors can explore beautiful artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures. Each piece tells its own story about Rwanda’s culture and history.

Caplaki Craft Village is another gem in Kigali that should not be missed. It offers visitors a chance to take home unique souvenirs from skilled Rwandan artisans.

You’ll find everything from woven baskets to handmade jewelry here. These items reflect the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Rwanda. Purchasing these helps support local artisans’ livelihoods directly.

Gorilla trekking is a must-do for visitors to Rwanda. It takes place in the lush Volcanoes National Park. You need to book permits early. They are hard to get because of their limited number.

Seeing gorillas up close is a regulated activity. This keeps the animals safe. Guides lead small groups through the forest. The encounter with these majestic creatures is unforgettable.

The canopy walk offers breathtaking views from above. It stretches 160 meters and hangs 70 meters off the ground. This suspended bridge is in Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s oldest forests.

Walking across it, you see different trees and birds below you. It’s like stepping into another world where nature rules. People often say this walk gives them a new perspective on life.

Cycling tours let you see Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes up close. You ride past hills, valleys, and villages on these tours. Routes vary from easy rides to more challenging ones. This means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re new to cycling or looking for an adventure.

These guided tours are also a great way to learn about local life. You meet people from different places along the way. It’s not just about cycling but also discovering new cultures.

Kayaking on Lake Kivu is peaceful and fun. You don’t need any experience to start kayaking here. Guides can help beginners feel comfortable quickly.

From Gisenyi or Kibuye, you can join guided tours that explore islands and watch birds around Lake Kivu. Being out on the water is calming, and seeing wildlife makes it even better.

After exploring Rwanda’s thrilling adventures, it’s time to dive into its rich culinary heritage. Traditional dishes like brochettes (grilled meat skewers), ugali (a maize flour staple), and Isombe (cassava leaves) offer a taste of the local culture.

You can savor these delicacies in local restaurants or homestays, where the warmth of Rwandan hospitality adds flavor to every bite.

Don’t leave without trying Ikivuguto, traditional fermented milk known for its tangy taste. It’s a unique part of Rwanda’s food scene. Reviews often highlight it as a must-try for visitors seeking authentic experiences.

Some of the best restaurants to check out in Rwanda are:

• Repub Lounge
• Brachetto
• Pili Pili
• The Hut Restaurant and Boutique Hotel
• Poivre Noir

Rwanda is celebrated globally for its coffee and tea, which rank among the world’s best. Embarking on coffee or tea tours presents an opportunity to learn about their journey from bean or leaf to cup. These tours are not just educational; they unfold amidst stunning landscapes, with rolling hillsides adorned with tea plants or coffee bushes offering breathtaking views.

Tasting sessions allow you to enjoy these beverages fresh from the source. Such experiences are often highlighted in reviews by past visitors who appreciated both the quality of the products and the beauty of their origins.

If you want to learn more than just remember your trip, taking cooking classes in Rwanda is great. You get to cook Rwandan food with local chefs or families, using important ingredients like bananas, beans, and sweet potatoes.

It’s a fun way to learn about their culture. Plus, you often go to markets to choose fresh stuff, which helps you meet locals and see their everyday life through their food.

Visiting a local village in Rwanda allows for deep cultural immersion. Travelers can meet rural communities. They learn about daily life firsthand. This experience is unique.

Activities like farming or craft making are common. Tourists actively participate in these activities. It’s not just watching; it’s doing.

This direct interaction fosters meaningful cultural exchange. Visitors connect with the community on a personal level. They share stories and learn from each other.

Contributing to sustainable tourism is important. Supporting projects like school building or reforestation shows social responsibility. It benefits both locals and the environment.

Volunteer opportunities allow travelers to give back while experiencing local life. This form of travel is impactful and fulfilling.

Engagements can be short-term or longer commitments, offering flexible involvement options for visitors:

• Short-term: Participating in a day-long activity.
• Longer commitment: Spending weeks or months on a project.

Staying at eco-lodges supports environmental sustainability, marking it as green travel. These accommodations are often located in unique places that offer immersive nature experiences.

Practices at eco-lodges include using renewable energy sources and water conservation measures and showcasing eco-friendly operations:

• Renewable energy: Solar panels might power the lodge.
• Water conservation: Rainwater can be collected and used for various needs.

After indulging in Rwanda’s rich culinary offerings, exploring its community-based initiatives adds another layer to an enriching visitation experience – one that emphasizes connection with people and nature alike through sustainable practices embodied by visits to local villages, participation in community projects, and stays at eco-lodges designed with environmental preservation at heart.

Lake Kivu’s beaches offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and leisure. The sandy shores provide stunning lake views that captivate visitors. It is a place where the worries of everyday life seem to drift away with the waves.

The swimming areas are safe and free from crocodiles and hippos. This makes them ideal for families looking for swim-friendly zones. Safety is a top priority, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water without fear.

Weekends at Lake Kivu often feature beach volleyball or boat rides. These leisure activities add an exciting dimension to relaxation. They cater to adventure seekers and those looking to unwind by the lakeside.

Rwanda’s luxury resorts set the standard for opulent stays amidst lush surroundings. They offer unparalleled comfort and service that make every moment memorable. High-end accommodations are more than just places to sleep; they are gateways to indulgent escapes.

Amenities typically include spas, gourmet dining, and private tours, among others. These luxury services ensure guests’ experience pampering on another level. Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure in nature with moments of pure relaxation.

Spa treatments in Rwanda utilize traditional Rwandan therapies alongside local ingredients like coffee or volcanic mud. These unique wellness offerings tap into ancient practices known for their health benefits.

Wellness centers located in serene settings promote a holistic health focus. They aim not just at physical rejuvenation but also mental relaxation. Accessible indulgence means these experiences aren’t limited only to guests at luxury resorts but are available across various specialized spa retreats throughout Rwanda.

Kwita Izina is not just an event. It’s a celebration of life and conservation success in Rwanda. Every year, people from around the world gather in Volcanoes National Park. They come to name newborn gorillas. This act highlights the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.

The ceremony is deep-rooted in Rwandan culture. Traditional dances fill the air with energy and joy. Meanwhile, messages about conserving nature make everyone think deeply about our planet. It’s a perfect mix of fun and learning.

On the last Saturday of each month, something special happens across Rwanda. Streets become cleaner, and communities stronger. This day is called Umuganda, which means ‘coming together’. Everyone does their part in cleaning or planting trees.

Tourists can join this unique tradition, too! It’s a chance to see how committed Rwandans are to keeping their country beautiful. While helping out, visitors also learn about teamwork and national pride firsthand.

Music brings people together like nothing else can. That’s what Kigali Up! Music Festival stands for every year in Rwanda’s capital city – Kigali. This festival celebrates African rhythms alongside international artists’ performances. Workshops and art exhibitions add more color to this vibrant event. Families love it because there’s something for everyone here!

Music genres vary widely at Kigali Up!, showcasing diversity at its best. Attendees experience new sounds while enjoying familiar tunes as well.

Gisenyi, a town on the shores of Lake Kivu, is a hidden gem. It’s known for its thermal hot springs. These springs offer relaxation in a natural setting. The beach here is perfect for unwinding after exploring Rwanda.

The area serves as a base to explore nearby attractions. Coffee plantations are one such attraction. They offer scenic views and insights into coffee production. This makes Gisenyi an ideal hub for travelers interested in both nature and culture.

Lake Kivu also boasts vibrant nightlife options. Lakeside bars and restaurants provide entertainment against a beautiful backdrop. This combination of natural beauty and lively atmosphere makes it unique.

Rwanda’s ancient rainforests are rich in biodiversity. They house rare species like mountain gorillas and birds not found elsewhere. These forests play a crucial role in conservation efforts.

Guided nature walks through these forests offer ecotourism experiences unlike any other. Travelers can learn about ecological wonders firsthand from knowledgeable guides. These forests also act as essential carbon sinks, helping regulate global climate change.

Their environmental significance cannot be overstated. They remind us of our responsibility towards preserving such habitats for future generations.

Hidden waterfalls in Rwanda are perfect spots for adventure seekers. Hiking to these secluded spots allows travelers to explore Rwanda’s natural landscapes closely.

These sites often form part of eco-tourism circuits that include bird watching, among other activities. They serve as biodiversity hotspots, showcasing the country’s rich flora and fauna.

Photography enthusiasts will find these waterfalls ideal settings to capture scenic beauty. The picturesque surroundings present countless opportunities for stunning photographs.

Choosing the best time to visit Rwanda really depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing. The dry season runs from June to September and is often considered the ideal time to explore Rwanda. This period allows visitors to enjoy everything the country offers, from staying in luxurious resorts and enjoying spa treatments to attending vibrant festivals and discovering hidden spots.

If you’re considering traveling around Rwanda to see its less-known treasures, renting a car can improve your trip. The roads in Rwanda are in good condition and easy to drive on, allowing you to plan your own adventure.

With some planning, you can have the perfect trip to Rwanda, filled with exciting adventures and moments of relaxation.