The ‘land of a thousand hills’, Rwanda may be petite in size but packs a mighty punch as far as travel is concerned. Now considered one of the safest countries on the continent, it has worked hard to become a beacon of tourism success. With an abundance of magnificent landscapes and endless natural beauty, tourism here is centred largely on what happens outside of the cities.
A successful campaign over recent decades to slow the scourge of gorilla poaching in the past – through daily patrols and the removal of snares – has resulted in a growing mountain gorilla population and a thriving ecotourism model.
Make a pit stop
A thriving arts and culinary scene in Kigali makes it a worthy city to explore – either before you embark on your journey to your lodge, or when you return to Kigali post trek.
A remarkably clean and lush city (there is a national clean-up day every month that all citizens are expected to take part in as part of their civic duty), Kigali is best navigated by car – it sprawls across a number of hills. Kigali Genocide Memorial is a good place to start, as it gives good context to the country’s complicated past, and the immense progress it has made.
Once you’ve immersed yourself in its history, venture further afield to explore a thriving artisanal coffee, art, craft, and markets scene.
Beyond gorilla trekking
There is much to do in Rwanda’s wilderness regions aside from what many people consider to be the main attraction (gorilla trekking).
The list is long – you can do a number of beautiful volcano and mountain hikes, golden monkey trekk, boat on and relax by the many lakes, tour tea plantations, birdwatch (there is magnificent birdlife in Rwanda), chimpanzee trek (in Nyungwe Forest National Park), and go on a traditional safari (Akagerya National Park near the Tanzanian border).
If you’re staying near Volcanoes National Park, you’ll be in close proximity to the Ellen Degeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which is also worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
Planning makes perfect
As a limited number of permits issued each day for trekking, if this forms an integral part of your visit to Rwanda, get planning early – decide where you’re going to stay and apply for your permit in good time.
Your hike’s length will be determined by the location of the gorilla family you’ve been assigned to (trackers will locate them on the morning of your hike and your group will venture to a specific family). It can be as quick as a 30-minute hike, or it can be a number of hours. While it’s not necessary to be extremely fit, some physical dexterity is needed – it’s slippery and dense in the forest. Hiring a local porter to help you navigate and carry your bag is advised – not only is it a huge help, it supports local employment.
Put it on your 2025 to do list
This is a must-visit destination for nature and history lovers. Scenically beautiful and culturally rich, it offers experiences disproportionate to its size. Chat to us about venturing to this wilderness jewel. Even better, combine it with a trip to Tanzania and get the best of East Africa all in one itinerary.