Given that Rwanda is a small, landlocked nation, there are several things to do there during your visit. Rwanda is located in East Africa often referred to as “Land of a Thousand Hills” and it covers an area of 26,338 square kilometers.

Unfortunately, Rwanda is also known to have suffered one of the deadliest genocides in recent history. But today, Rwanda is seen as an example of how other African nations can effectively organize their populations, fight corruption and create efficient systems that work. Rwanda’s tourism industry is one of the most remarkable achievements in recent times.

Rwanda has a lot to offer visitors in terms of natural beauty, great weather, endless hills, volcanoes, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. The capital, Kigali, is the cleanest in Africa, and Rwanda is also one of the safest countries in the world. In this article, we will walk you through some of the best things to do in Rwanda ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive in!

15 Best things to do in Rwanda

1. Pay Tribute at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre

The Genocide Memorial Center in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is worth a visit to better understand Rwanda’s history and resilience. The museum houses the bodies of approximately 250,000 people who were brutally massacred by the Interahamwe (Hutu extremists). The unit is divided into three parts: one for children who died in the genocide, one for adults, and one for genocides around the world.

You can learn a lot about the events before, during, and after the 1994 genocide by visiting the site. You can listen to what a local guide has to say or watch a short film about the unfortunate incident. Although it may be disturbing, the main purpose of this exhibition is to educate the public, especially the next generation, about the cruelty of the genocide so that it does not happen again.

2. Gorilla Trekking Adventure at Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s most popular wildlife destination is undoubtedly Volcanoes National Park. Besides participating in other popular activities in the park, hundreds of foreign tourists visit the park every year to see mountain gorillas.

Gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda is truly an experience that allows you to encounter these creatures up close in their natural environment. On any given day, only eight people can follow one of the park’s 10 normal alligator groups.

Information from the Kinigi Park Office Starts the Gorilla Tour in Volcano National Park at 7:00 am. With an armed guide, guests are herded into a group of monkeys. One of the most amazing things about traveling in Africa is visiting monkeys. Why? because it involves an encounter with living beings like us.

3. Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park

Rwanda is home to the Nyungwe Forest, one of the oldest afro-mountain forests in Africa. Located in the southwest of the country, the forest is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees and birds. Angola Colobus and Golden Monkeys still have a few remnants in the Nyungwe Forest.

Visitors can choose from more than 15 nature walks as they explore the forest. If hiking isn’t your thing, go monkey hunting in the Nyungwe Forest or take the much-loved canopy walk. Regardless of the species you signed up to see, there are birds (310 species), primates (13 species), butterflies (120 species), plants (over 1,000 species), amphibians (32 species), and aquatic reptiles (38 species). You will undoubtedly experience something unforgettable.

4. Witness the Beauty of Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is the largest body of water in Rwanda, with an area of over 2,700 square kilometers. This freshwater lake often attracts visitors due to its beautiful shores, resorts, and islands.

Swimming, bird watching, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, windsurfing, and other water sports are all great activities at Lake Kivu. The Congo Nile Trail is built along the shores of the lake, giving cyclists the opportunity to explore the Rwandan landscape on foot or by mountain bike. There are no hippos or crocodiles in Lake Kivu.

5. Enjoy Delicious Rwandan Cuisine

While Rwandan cuisine may not be among the top tourist attractions in the country, it is still worth mentioning.

The best of what East Africa has to offer is combined with widely consumed local cuisine. In addition to fresh cow’s milk, you can also try grilled beef, isombe, ibihaza, somboza, akabanga, and various regional brochettes.

After work or on weekends, residents enjoy urvagwa, a popular banana beer variety. Indulge, in the hospitality as you embark on a culinary adventure.

6. Discover Nyanza Royal Palace

Nyanza Royal Palace is a living museum that provides an insight into Rwanda’s monarchical history. While King Rudahigwa Mutara III was in power, the palace was built with the help of the Belgian government.

Be sure to stop by the museum if you are in the southern region of Rwanda or on your way to Nyungwe National Park.

The museum has objects and data dating back more than 200 years. Unfortunately, during the 1994 genocide, many of them were confiscated or destroyed.

7. Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda

It was built in 1989 and is formally known as the National Museum of Rwanda. Butare, a village 80 kilometers from Kigali, is where the site is located. Visitors to Nyungwe Forest National Park often make it their first stop.

Learning about Banyarwanda culture is possible in the museum. The museum’s seven galleries exhibit antiques, photographs, cultural objects, and pottery from ancient times, musical instruments, traditional clothing, and woodwork. You can see Intore dancers entertain guests after viewing the gallery exhibits.

8. Hike Mount Bisoke for Spectacular Views

Although Mount Bisoke is Rwanda’s highest volcano, it only rises to 3,711 meters. Its easy climb makes it one of the most famous volcanoes. The trip up and back only takes one day.

Hikers will be rewarded upon reaching the top with views of the Great Crater and other Virunga Volcanoes and Volcanoes National Park. If you climb the lower slopes of the mountain, if you’re fortunate, you may come across a gorilla or a group of golden monkeys.

9. Relax and Unwind at Lake Muhazi

Lake Muhazi can be found in the region of Rwanda. It’s a lake formed by a flooded valley stretching mainly from east to west. On its side, there stands a dam constructed in 1999 to replace an ancient one that had been there, for ages.

This peaceful lake offers the setting for activities, like swimming, fishing, and enjoying picnics allowing you to unwind amidst the splendor of nature.

10. Experience the Akagera National Park Safari

Do you want to experience a firsthand safari adventure in Rwanda, then visit Akagera National Park? This park was established in 1934, and the genocide in 1994 had a devastating effect on the environment and caused great loss to animals. Swamps, savanna plains, forests, lakes, rivers, and slopes can be found in Akagera National Park.

In addition to other activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, cultural sessions, and mountain climbing, it is now home to all the Big Five, including lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. This gives tourists the opportunity to experience a complete wildlife safari in Rwanda.

Olive baboons, blue monkeys, hyenas, leopards, and hippos are just some of the other animals that can be seen in Akagera. Akagera is a great place for bird watching, nature walks, and sport fishing on Lake Shakani, as well as regular fishing trips.

11. Kigali City Tour in Rwanda

The city tour offers several in-depth views of Kigali, allowing visitors to experience the true heartbeat of Rwanda. The city of Kigali offers a temperate environment.

Go shopping in the comic book store, and stop at a restaurant in town to eat some of Rwanda’s regional dishes; However, the menus often feature international dishes as well. Do not forget that this city is the cleanest in Africa.

12. Visit the Kimironko Market

At Kimironko Market you can buy cheap fresh produce, food, and fruit. Customers can choose from a variety of items by visiting the many stalls and choosing the one they like best.

An expansion of the market focuses on high-quality used clothing, including suits, purses, shoes, and apparel. Kimironko is the place to go if you are wondering where to find high-quality regional fabrics like Kitenge at reasonable prices.

13. Visit Inema Arts Center

Two brothers founded the Inema art center to encourage regional artists. The center houses some of the finest contemporary crafts in the country. It showcases the best artists from home and abroad.

For aspiring artists, especially those less fortunate, such as orphans, the institute organizes workshops and training. Tourists are often shown around these places as they explore the numerous galleries in search of souvenirs during their visit. A local Intore cultural group performing the dance is also in attendance.

14. Discover the Gorilla Guardians Village

Once known as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, the center was founded by Edwin Sabuhoro, a former ranger of the Volcanoes National Park, to showcase all the wonderful things about Kinyarwanda culture and provide jobs for traditional hunters.

Visitors visit the center before watching traditional dances, learning how to cook regional dishes, or going on a Batwa-style hunt. You can get to wear the royal robes of the time to experience what it was like to be an iconic figure.

15. Enjoy Nightlife in Kigali at Mamba Club

Do you have any questions about where to go in Kigali in the evening or at night? The Mamba Club is a favorite hangout for Kigali’s middle and upper classes, who seek fun and socializing.

There are varieties of recreational activities which includes swimming, ping-pong, volleyball, soccer, and pool. The only bowling alley in town is at the Mamba Club. Go to the Mamba Club with your loved ones, colleagues, or friends and have a late-night blast there. The well-stocked bar serves excellent food and drinks.

Final Thoughts

When you leave Rwanda, you will take with you not only cherished memories of its natural wonders, but also a deep appreciation for the country’s cultural heritage, diverse wildlife and the preservation of its magnificent beauty, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Rwanda offers the perfect combination of adventure, culture, and nature conservation, making it an unforgettable trip for any traveler.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

Yes, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The government has taken important steps to ensure security and stability.

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are less muddy and access is better.

What languages are spoken in Rwanda?

The official languages are Kinyarwanda, English, and French. English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas.

How do I obtain a visa for Rwanda?

Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Rwanda, while others can apply online in advance. It’s advisable to check the current visa requirements before traveling.

Are credit cards accepted in Rwanda?

Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.