Rwanda is a small, yet beautiful, East African country commonly known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Despite its tragic past, Rwanda emerged as a beacon of hope, resilience, and reinvention. Nowadays, Rwanda is known for clean cities, warm people, and great wildlife experiences. Its stunning beauty includes misty mountains, serene lakes, vibrant cities, and overall, a wide variety of travel experiences. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rwanda.
1. Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is well known as Rwanda’s crown jewel and one of the best places in the world to spot mountain gorillas in the wild. Set in the exotic filled Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is home to over a third of the remaining mountain gorilla population. On a trek through misty forest, to normally sit quietly with a family of gorillas, is a humbling experience and a once in a lifetime opportunity. The park also has golden monkey treks, hikes to crater lakes, and a visit to the grave of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey.
2. Kigali
Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is one of the few cities in Africa that can be described with terms like cleanliness, order, and safety. For many travelers, Kigali is the first stop on their journey, and while most travelers may only be in transit, Kigali fully deserves more than just a transit stop or an airport hotel. Kigali offers an engaging mix of history, culture, and modern development. I highly recommend visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which not only provides an understanding of Rwanda’s past, but also will leave you fully appreciating the country’s impressive recovery. In addition to the memorial, Kigali offers enthusiastic markets, excellent coffee shops, art galleries, and local fashion stores. The surrounding rolling green hills only add to Kigali’s beauty and picturesque ambience – it is certainly one of the greenest and prettiest capitals you will find in Africa.
3. Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and though it was especially devastated during the civil wars of the 90’s, it is one of Africa’s biodiversity hot spots. It is home to many hundreds of species of birds and primates such as chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Chimpanzee tracking is a very popular activity here, giving guests the opportunity of getting close to these very intelligent creatures. Additionally, Nyungwe is home to the only canopy walk in East Africa – a suspension bridge about 90 meters above the forest floor, and one-of-a-kind opportunity to appreciate the treetops and wildlife from above. To top it all off, with a great many hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls, Nyungwe Forest is perfect for those who love nature or those who seek out eco-tourism experiences!
4. Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu lies along Rwanda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The lake is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and a peaceful escape from Rwanda’s inland hills. The lakeside towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu provide beaches, boats, and all-around views. This is a place to canoe, kayak, or boat through small islands, or just hang out at a lodge by the lake. It is also a great opportunity to engage with local communities and immerse yourself in Rwanda’s slower pace of rural life.
5. Akagera National Park
If you want the classic African safari experience, head east to Akagera National Park. After being decimated by war and poaching it has been rehabilitated back to life: now it is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo). The park has a combination of savannah, wetlands, and lakes, which make it suitable for game drives, boat safaris and birdwatching. The experience is altogether less crowded than many other safari destinations which also afford some exclusivity.
6. Musanze Caves
The Musanze caves, located near Volcanoes National Park, are a geological wonder. These lava tubes formed by volcanic activity extend for over 2 kilometers and make for a fun underground adventure. Guided tours offer an understanding of the caves’ history and the cultural importance they have for local people.
7. Huye (Butare)
Huye – formerly known as Butare – is the intellectual and cultural capital of Rwanda, home to the National University of Rwanda and the Ethnographic Museum, one of the best museums in East Africa. It is a good place to get a feel for Rwanda’s traditional culture, its crafts, and its pre-colonial history. The town has a laid-back feel, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
In closing.
Rwanda may be a small country but she big on height, colour and experience. If you wish to get up close with mountain gorillas, immerse yourself in awe-inspiring scenery, and experience a resurgence of culture then this travel destination is one-of-a-kind! Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism, conservation, and peace means she is far more than a destination, she is story of transformation and inspiration.
Rwanda is more than a travel destination – she is a journey of nature, resilience and humanity.
