Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” could just as easily be known as the “Land of a Thousand Hopes.” A trip to this remarkable country is nothing short of inspiring. Rwanda’s journey is one of determination, resilience, and incredible recovery, rising from the ashes of the 1994 Civil War and the horrific Genocide Against the Tutsi. Now, nearly three decades later, Rwanda stands as one of Africa’s cleanest, safest, and most economically progressive nations.
It has worked to heal deep ethnic divisions and created a blueprint for sustainable development that many other countries look to as a model. Visiting Rwanda is sure to leave you deeply moved and inspired. So, if you’ve ever wondered, why visit Rwanda? —this guide will show you exactly why it should be your next unforgettable adventure.
Volcanoes National Park in northwest Rwanda hugs the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight colossal volcanoes that spans across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The national park is home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas – Rwanda’s most famous tourist attraction, and for good reason: according to the African Wildlife Foundation, it is the only great ape species in the world experiencing population rise.
Trekking on foot through the jungle to encounter these mighty apes can be an exhilarating experience, especially if you’re used to viewing wildlife from the comfort of a vehicle. Despite their intimidating size, gorillas are gentle and peaceful herbivores, posing no threat to visitors. One of the best parts of gorilla trekking in Rwanda is its ease of access. Volcanoes is only 80 kilometers from Kigali Airport, making it an ideal destination for those with limited time. You can fly into Kigali, head directly to your lodge, embark on a thrilling trek the next day, and still be back at the airport the morning after.
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is where the legendary American Primatologist, Dian Fossey’s conducted her groundbreaking 20-year study of the endangered mountain gorillas, a project that changed the way we understand these incredible apes.
Her work, followed by the filmmakers of Gorillas in the Mist, brought global attention to the species. Today, visitors can not only embark on one of the world’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences—gorilla trekking—but can also get involved in the ongoing conservation efforts.
By trekking through lush forests and observing the gorillas in their natural habitat, you’re helping to support the tireless work of local scientists who are pioneering innovative research to protect and preserve these majestic animals for future generations.
Gorilla trekking is the main reason why people visit Rwanda for safari, but the country also offers the opportunity to track chimpanzees in East Africa’s largest remaining Afromontane Forest. That forest’s name is Nyungwe, and it is protected in a magnificently scenic and biodiverse 1,015km²/392mi² national park set on the Rift Valley escarpment above Lake Kivu.
At least 500 chimps roam this vast forest, which a community of chimps that is well habituated to tourists. These humanlike apes share almost 99% of our DNA, and trekking through the jungle of Nyungwe to look for them is one of many magical experiences in Rwanda.
Beyond chimpanzees, Nyungwe is also known for its large populations of Angolan colobus monkeys, easily spotted in the forest. These striking primates, with their black fur and long, flowing white hair, are highly social and can be found in large groups, with one semi-habituated troop numbering up to 500 individuals. Observing these playful and curious monkeys interacting with each other and with visitors creates a truly mesmerizing experience, adding an extra layer of excitement to any visit to Nyungwe Forest.
Akagera National Park in Rwanda is home to the Big 5—lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. While it may not rival the vast wildlife hubs of Kenya or Tanzania, the park boasts stunning landscapes, including savannahs, forest patches, and a large swampy area featuring six lakes, ideal for boat safaris. The park supports diverse wildlife, with around 150 leopards and hyenas, as well as servals and jackals.
In 2015, seven lions were relocated from South Africa to Akagera by air, and their population has since grown to over 50 individuals. Additionally, the park has seen the introduction of 18 black rhinos in 2017 and 30 white rhinos in 2021. Akagera also has an estimated 90 elephants, and buffalo numbers are healthy, with around 3,000 present. The lakes are home to large populations of hippos and crocodiles, and antelopes and other plains species thrive throughout the park.
Rwanda is leading the way in creating a plastic-free Africa. The country made history in 2008 by implementing a national ban on non-biodegradable plastic bags, making it a true trailblazer on the continent. Rwanda also introduced a unique community initiative called Umuganda, where every last Saturday of the month, citizens gather to clean the streets, care for gardens, and help one another.
If you’re visiting Rwanda, you’ll likely spend a night or two in Kigali, the capital, which is modern, incredibly clean, and beautifully spread across hills and valleys. The city has a lively vibe, with great restaurants, a buzzing nightlife, and plenty of shopping malls featuring stylish boutiques and cozy coffee shops.
For a more authentic experience, be sure to check out Kigali’s vibrant markets. While in Kigali, don’t miss a visit to the State House Museum or the Natural History Museum. However, the most iconic and emotional landmark is the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This moving site not only tells the heartbreaking story of the genocide but also highlights Rwanda’s incredible progress in the years since.
If you’re visiting Rwanda and have a taste for adventure and outdoor activities, you’ll be spoiled for choice. One of the top experiences is embarking on a multi-day mountain biking journey along the rugged dirt roads of the 141-mile-long Congo Nile Trail, winding through the country’s stunning rolling hills.
For a bird’s-eye view of nature, take a walk on the 70-meter-high Canopy Walkway, which stretches 160 meters above the vibrant, primate-filled Nyungwe rainforest. Water lovers can explore the serene beauty of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest body of water, where outdoor fun is never in short supply.
If lounging on the beach in the popular resort town of Gisenyi starts to feel too relaxing, you can take a kayak adventure on the crystal-clear waters, paddling along the scenic shores. You might even have the chance to interact with local fishermen as they glide across the lake in their traditional wooden boats, rhythmically singing as they paddle in unison—an unforgettable experience.
For those who love a challenge, the towering peaks of Mount Karisimbi (14,000 feet; 4507m) and Mount Bisoke (7 hours round-trip) in Volcanoes National Park await, or try tackling the 13,500-foot Muhabura (4127m), a nine-hour round-trip climb for the more experienced hiker.
Rwanda has made impressive strides since its early days as a safari destination. Today, the country boasts a wide range of high-quality accommodations across its major tourist spots. What was once limited to a few local guesthouses has now expanded to include tourist-class hotels near Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Akagera National Parks. In addition, several intimate, upscale safari lodges—popular in more traditional safari destinations—have recently opened. These developments are set to put Rwanda firmly on the radar of seasoned African travelers seeking the quintessential safari experience.
Rwanda’s parks offer a peaceful, exclusive safari experience, away from the crowds of more popular destinations, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter, more personal adventure. Its location also makes it a great starting point to explore nearby countries.
You can easily visit Uganda to see mountain gorillas and the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions. Rwanda’s proximity to Kenya and Tanzania means you can also explore the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, known for the Great Migration. For a relaxing finish, combine your safari with a beach getaway in Zanzibar, enjoying its beautiful white-sand beaches. Whether you want a tranquil safari or to combine Rwanda with other iconic destinations, the options for an unforgettable trip are endless.
