Known as a Land of thousand hills, Rwanda is a small country located in the Central and Eastern part of Africa. With a total surface area of 26,338 square kilometers, the country is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife that can be seen in different tourist destinations. From the clean streets of Kigali to the lush green forests of the Rwandan Volcanoes and Nyungwe Forest, there is a lot to do and see in the amazing country of Rwanda. Among the must-see things to see on Rwanda safari, below is a list of 10 experiences;
- Go Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park:
Gorilla trekking is one of the most popular experiences in Rwanda. The activity is done in Volcanoes national park, located in the northwestern part of the country. Volcanoes is a home to almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas and visitors can watch these endangered species as they trek through the lush green forests of the park. You will have an up-close encounter with the apes for almost an hour. Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable and unique experience that everyone shouldn’t miss.
- Go Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park:
In the Republic of Rwanda, Nyungwe forest national park is the only destination where one can track the endangered chimpanzees during chimpanzee tracking experience. During the activity, you will trail through the park rainforests in search of the apes and once found, you will spend an hour in their presence as you enjoy their daily activities like how and where they sleep, what they feed on, and also how they play with each other. Still during the encounter, you will be able to know who leads the group, how babies are cared for in the chimp family and also how big the group has to be. Just like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes national park, chimpanzee trekking is also unforgettable experience that is one in Nyungwe forest national park.
- Explore Akagera National Park:
For wildlife enthusiasts, Akagera national park is among the must-visit destinations in Rwanda. Located in the eastern part of the country, Akagera national park is ranked as the largest national park in Rwanda with several wildlife including the big five African game (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos). Other animals in the park include; zebras, giraffes, hippos and others. These animals can be watched during boat cruise safaris on Lake Ihema and game drives through the park landscapes.
- Have a city tour in Kigali
Kigali, is the capital and largest city of Rwanda, encompassing a number of attractions that are worth your visit. Among the attractions to see include; the Kigali genocide site where the victims of the 1994 genocide were buried, markets and museums, plus a beautiful nightlife.
- Visit Lake Kivu:
Located between the Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo border, Lake Kivu is also one of the top attractions one must visit during the stay in Rwanda. During the stay at the lake, visitors can take part in different experiences including a boat ride on the calm waters, relax by the lakeshore, take in the stunning views of one of Africa’s Great Lakes or even explore the nearby towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye.
- Experience the rich culture at Gorilla Guardian village
Formerly known as Iby’Iwacu cultural village, Gorilla Guardian village is the best destination to witness the rich culture of Rwanda. Situated near Volcanoes national park, the village provides the best culture of Rwanda through music, dance and handicrafts. During the interaction with the locals, you can take part in activities like milking cows, brewing banana beer and others.
- Explore King’s Palace Museum (Nyanza):
Visit the historical royal palace which offers insight into Rwanda’s monarchy and traditional way of life. The palace is beautifully crafted thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive. It was known as the heart of Rwanda and according to the oral tradition, it was the site of battles and power struggle. While at this place, visitors can have a tour as they learn about the history and culture of Rwanda’s royal family.
- Visit Rwanda National Museum (Butare):
Explore Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage, including exhibits on traditional art, history, and ethnography during your National museum visit. While at the museum, witness what culture was like before colonization including the foods, hunting, clothing, music, money and others and this will give you an idea of what life used to be back then. Also, in the museum, there is a lot of information to know about the 1994 Rwanda genocide where different people lost their lives. Unfortunately, while at the museum photographs are not allowed.
- Rwanda Reptile Sanctuary (Ruhengeri):
Discover a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of Rwanda’s reptiles, providing educational experiences about these fascinating creatures.
- Go for Congo Nile Trail:
Embark on a scenic hike or bike ride along Lake Kivu, passing through picturesque villages, hills, and offering breathtaking views. Congo Nile trail can be done as a comparison to gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda and it involves having a 227km bike ride from the northern shores in Gisenyi and ending in the southern shores of Rusizi district. This trail doesn’t pass through Congo or anywhere near the river Nile but is named after a landmark/watershed that separates the Congo and Nile rivers.
As you are preparing a safari in Rwanda, remember to check for any travel advisories or requirements before planning your trip, and consider hiring local guides or tour operators for a deeper cultural and natural experience. Enjoy your visit to Rwanda!
