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15 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda

Scarred by arguably the most brutal genocide of the post-war period, and beset by political tumult for much of the 20th century, Rwanda is nothing like the country it once was. Today, despite some claims of human rights abuses and low-key corruption, the nation remains a beacon of hope for many of the other Central African nations trying to shed a painful past. Stable government and regular democratic elections are the name of the game, while cities like Kigali and Huye have awoken to become centers of culture and art and even nightlife. Economic wealth is being generated by sustainable industries like coffee growing, alongside not-so-sustainable ones like mineral mining.

And Rwanda has also realized another of its great money makers: that gorgeous backcountry. This ranges from the montane reserves of the chimp-dotted Nyungwe Forest to the verdant hills and pretty banks around Lake Kivu – and it rarely fails to impress!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Rwanda :

Since the dark days of the Rwandan genocide, the city of Kigali really has done a U-turn.

Where once marauding gangs and death patrols roamed, today there are bustling markets and spice-scented street stalls.

The ramshackle barrios now ooze the energy of day-to-day bustle, while the appearance of shimmering steel skyscrapers on the horizon is just another sign of the flow of foreign investment in these parts.

There are a couple of things you simply need to see: the moving Genocide Memorial and the grand presidential palace.

Apart from that, it’s just a case of taking in the newfound national confidence, shopping Rwandan handicrafts in the bazaars, and sinking cold ones in the raucous nightclubs.

Huye was once known as Butare, and most locals still call it that today.

But whatever its moniker may change to, there’s no altering this one’s prestigious history.

Huye is the home of the National University and the National Institute of Scientific Research, along with countless other revered learning centers.

That makes it something like Rwanda’s answer to English Oxford, or Massachusetts’ Cambridge.

It also makes it a place rich with cultural attractions.

Visitors can hear tales of the old Tutsi monarchs at the National Museum of Rwanda; they can eat alongside erudite students, and they can delve into the stalls and handicraft emporiums of Huye Market.

3. Volcanos National Park

While most African hinterlands away from the Great Rift Valley are forced to compete with the likes of Kruger and Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, when it comes to the wild, mist-topped backcountry of Rwanda’s Volcanos National Park, all bets are off! Yep, this truly breathtaking conservation area – contiguous with Virunga across the border – is topped by the once-smoking calderas of mighty mounts like Karisimbi and serrated Sabyinyo.

All around these craggy volcanic peaks, visitors discover lush montane forests and thick groves of African redwoods.

And within those there’s another treasure: the uber-rare mountain gorilla!

Kibuye juts its way into the blue-brown waters of Lake Kivu in a series of curved headlands and steep-sided bays.

Surely one of the most handsome towns in all of Rwanda, it’s surrounded by high hills that come dressed in wisps of mist by morning and offering sweeping views of the lake waters and the islands by afternoon.

Between the streets, there are some earthy little eco lodges on the shores, along with one interesting Catholic church, and a memorial to the Rwandan genocide.

There’s also a smattering of empty beaches around the center, and oodles of boats available for tours away from the banks.

5. Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is the same savannah and riparian swamp mosaic you’d expect to find in the super-famous game parks of the East African Rift.

That’s because its 1,200 square kilometers of land abut right up to the border with Tanzania, giving rise to roaming herds of giraffes, antelopes, jackals and more.

Safaris are slowly becoming popular, with outfitters now organizing game drives and game walks from the smattering of lodges that exist.

And the environments are beautiful too, with the meanders of the Kagera River giving way to shimmering Lake Shakani, oodles of papyrus swamps and protected birding areas aplenty.

The gateway to that great speck of blue that is Lake Kivu, sitting amidst the verdant hills and mountains of the Albertine Rift Valley, Gisenyi is a place where the African jungles cascade down grassy hills in sporadic bouts of palm trees and exotic cassiyas.

They fall to meet the muddied waters of the lake, where flitting insects and boatman flies cause ripples on the surface.

Although shared with larger Goma across the border with DRC to the west, the banks of the lake are the real draw.

They are peppered with bamboo built shacks and eco lodges – perfect for those eager to immerse themselves and escape in the Rwandan wilderness.

There was once a time when Rwandan royalty trod the dusty lanes and roadways of far-flung Nyanza; when ancestral monarchs wandered under the great bulbous domes of the adobe and thatched ancient King’s Palace.

One of the last capitals of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Rwanda, this spot in the southern reaches of the country is steeped in history and tradition.

Come and trace the story of the nation’s onetime leaders, unravel sobering and moving episodes of the Rwandan Genocide, and tour the museum collections that lurk in the old court rooms.

Nyanza is also the home of the Rwesero Art Museum; perhaps the most prestigious and rich in the country.

8. Nyungwe Forest National Park

There are few protected forests that can boast the same kind of superlatives as Rwanda’s mystical Nyungwe Forest National Park.

For starters, this vast area of more than 940 square kilometers is the single largest enclave of montane forest remaining in this corner of the continent.

What’s more, the thick canopies of mahoganies and clambering jungle vines hide one of the most diverse arrays of simian life in the world.

There are chimpanzees and rare golden monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and big baboons all swinging through the boughs here!

9. Lake Kivu

While Lake Kivu is hardly a single destination, it’s worth a special mention on its own simply because of the sheer wealth of attractions and activities it offers travelers to Rwanda from its place on the extreme western border of the country.

Covering a vast area of more than 2,700 square kilometers, it ranges from Gisenyi in the north to the multicultural island of Ishwa in the south.

Along the way, visitors will be able to spot rustic fishing villages on stilts, clusters of trademark catamaran skiffs on the water, a speckling of pretty tropical islands, and perhaps even the more modern outlines of industrious natural gas extractors above the lake.

Gisuma is Rwanda’s coffee king.

Set amidst the foothills and sylvan valleys that rise to the Nyungwe Forest, the town is just a small speck on the map.

But, thanks to its tasty beans and potent caffeine-infused brews, it’s risen to become well-known by baristas and coffee enthusiasts the world over.

Today, the industry is headed by the ethical Gisuma co-operative organization, which has increased the take-home pay of local growers in the region by as much as 45% since it began.

And even if you don’t like the black tipple, the area around Gisuma is beautiful to behold: rolling fields of coffee bushes peaking and dipping with the topography of the mountains all around.

11. Nyagatare

Nestled deep in the granite-carved valleys of Rwanda’s north-eastern provinces, the city of Nyagatare is not only the best gateway for exploring the verdant and biodiverse reaches of the Akagera National Park, but also an interesting little backwater town in its own right.

As many as 100,000 people call it home, breathing life into the ad hoc craft markets and the university campus that pepper the city center.

And then there are the rustic hamlets that dot the hills close by, encompassed by landscapes of croc-spotted rivers and hippo-heavy swamps.

12. Ruhengeri

Visitors to the northern town of Ruhengeri can’t help but look up; up to where the mist-shrouded peaks of the mighty Virunga Mountains raise the horizon; to where great beasts like the mountain gorilla roam the verdant forests.

In fact, those natural draws (namely the Volcanos National Park) are pretty much the main attraction here, and the wealth of safari outfitters and package touts offering gorilla stalking expeditions is testimony to the fact.

That said, Ruhengeri is a decent, charming place on its own.

There are some great guesthouses, lively beer bars, and seriously awesome views from almost everywhere you go!

13. Lake Muhazi

Winding and weaving like an East African snake through the hills of Rwanda’s Eastern Province, the waters of Lake Muhazi have long represented a favorite rest, recuperation and relaxation spot for dwellers of the capital at Kigali.

The banks are spotted with secluded picnic points, and there’s even a popular country club offering volleyball courts, quiet cabanas on the shore, eateries, and bike and boat rentals.

The enchanting towns of Gahini and Rwesero are perfect stopovers for people making their way here, with just a clutch of great homestays to kick-back in before touring the nearby coffee fields and Catholic cathedrals.

14. Kibungo

For a taste of off-the-beaten-track Rwanda, why not make a beeline for the little town of Kibungo.

Set in the east of the country, this provincial capital boasts a collection of higher education institutions (cue a population of term-time students to boot), and the lively stalls and shopping areas of the Kibungo Central Market.

The spot also has a small offering of places to stay, making it a convenient one in which to rest the head on the way through to the Tanzanian border in the south, or to the waters of Lake Muhazi just to the north-west.

15. Gishwati Forest National Park

Sprawled over the hilltops just a short distance from beaches and resorts of Lake Kivu and Gisenyi, the Gishwati Forest National Park is now right on the forefront of Rwandan conservation.

After mass migrations of refugees to the hinterland in the 1990s, during the genocide, the area suffered heavily from deforestation.

Today, evidence of this can be seen in the bare ridges and rolling meadows within.

However, efforts are being made to rejuvenate the wilderness, and there are programs in place to plant thousands of new trees by 2020. Still, there’s no denying the reserve is beautiful, with green highlands and woods that house L’Hoest’s monkeys and chimps!

15 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda:

• Volcanos National Park
• Akagera National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Lake Muhazi
• Gishwati Forest National Park

• 20 Unmissable Attractions In Rwanda

20 Unmissable Attractions in Rwanda

Welcome to Rwanda ! Home to vibrant city life, mountain gorillas , and breathtaking vistas, there are many places to explore and activities to do. Here are 20 unmissable attractions for your trip to the land of a thousand hills.

Volcanoes national park.

Located in northwest Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is home to the Virunga Mountain range, mountain gorillas, beautiful volcanoes, golden monkeys, and excellent views.

Karisoke Research Center

Funded by The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, the Karisoke Research Center works to track and study Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, fund anti-poaching initiatives, and teach visitors and locals about conservation.

Rwanda’s largest lake, located in the west of the country, is stunning. Gisenyi and Kibuye, two of the largest towns on the lake, have plentiful guesthouses, restaurants, and activities.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is one of the most remote locations in Rwanda. A fairly untouched rainforest, the park holds chimpanzees, hundreds of bird species, colobus monkeys, and many hiking trails. Endless tea fields are located right outside the park gates.

Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, known as the Twin Lakes, sit just a few kilometers outside the town of Musanze. Known for their volcanic views and ideal for weekend trips, the twin lakes are undoubtedly one of Rwanda’s most beautiful attractions.

Akagera National Park

Home to Africa’s Big Five (the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), Akagera National Park’s sweeping views, plentiful wildlife, and easy access render this spot one of the best parks in the area.

Sorwathe Tea Plantation

Halfway between Kigali and Musanze, the Sorwathe Tea Plantation offers lunch, tea tastings, fantastic views, and a tea production tour.

Lake Muhazi

Lake Muhazi, located less than 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Kigali, is one of the city’s best options for a day trip. Small restaurants and cafés line the calm shores, and sunsets over Muhazi are unforgettable.

1. Ethnographic Museum

2. City views at the Ubumwe Grande Hotel

One of Kigali’s best views can be found at the top of the Ubumwe Grande Hotel . Open all day, visitors and residents alike flock to the hotel’s bar for a spectacular snapshot of Kigali from above.

Ubumwe Grande Hotel, 1306 KN 67, Kigali, Rwanda, +250 783 744 755

View from the Ubumwe Grande Hotel | © Courtesy of Joli Tropisme

3. Inema Arts Center

Art Gallery

4. Kigali Genocide Memorial

5. Kimironko Market

6. Repub Lounge

Restaurant, African, Vegetarian

Sample traditional Rwandan food in an upmarket setting with fantastic views. Located in the Kimihurura neighbourhood, Repub Lounge is known as one of Kigali’s best restaurants.

7. Kigali Convention Centre

One of Kigali’s most iconic buildings, and an architectural feat, the Convention Centre was completed in 2016. Check it out at night when it displays the colours of Rwanda’s flag.

Kigali Convention Centre, KN 5, Kigali, Rwanda , +250 786 738 663

Kigali Convention Center | © GovernmentZA / Flickr

8. Inzora Rooftop Cafe

Cafe, Vegetarian, Coffee

9. Presidential Palace Museum

Museum, Art Gallery

10. Hôtel des Mille Collines

Hôtel des Mille Collines, featured in the movie Hotel Rwanda , is still in its original location in the Kiyovu neighbourhood. Nowadays people visit to hang by the pool, watch live music, and enjoy brunch.

11. Kigali Heights

Shopping Mall

12. Baso Patissier

Cafe, Patisserie, Dessert, Vegetarian

Kigali’s newest bakery, Baso Patissier , has the best eclairs in town. Though their vanilla eclair reigns supreme, don’t hesitate to check out their other dessert offerings.

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Must-see attractions in Rwanda

Kigali Genocide Memorial

In the span of 100 days, an estimated one million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were systematically butchered by the Interahamwe army. This memorial honours…

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, which runs along the border with the DRC and Uganda, is home to the Rwandan section of the Virungas. Comprising five volcanoes,…

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is Rwanda’s most important area of biodiversity and has been rated the highest priority for forest conservation in Africa…

Ethnographic Museum

This outstanding museum was given to the city as a gift from Belgium in 1989 to commemorate 25 years of independence. While the building itself is…

Murambi Genocide Memorial

Nyamagabe (formerly called Gikongoro) and the satellite town of Murambi was the site of one of the most unforgettable horrors of the 1994 genocide…

Akagera National Park

Akagera is Rwanda's answer to the savannah parks of Kenya and Tanzania, and is utterly different in landscape to anywhere else in the country. Prior to…

King's Palace Museum – Rukari

Situated on a hill 2km southwest of town, this fascinating museum is less about ancient history and more about royal residences. The displays centre on a…

Rubona Peninsula

Roughly 6km south of town (about RFr1000 by moto-taxi), along a lovely lakeshore road, the Rubona Peninsula is Lake Kivu at its finest. Hills rise steeply…

Nkotsi Village

Nkotsi village (also known as Muko) is a small village 7km southwest of Musanze. It's home to the Red Rocks camping and hostel, which, through the Hands…

Gorilla Guardians Village

While most of the focus of Volcanoes National Park falls squarely onto the animals, this 'cultural village' puts the spotlight back onto the people…

Ntarama Church

Some of the most horrific massacres during the genocide took place inside the sanctums of churches throughout Rwanda, including inside Ntarama church,…

Nyamata Church

Nyamata church, about 30km south of Kigali, is a deeply disturbing genocide memorial where some 50,000 people died. Today the skulls and bones along with…

National Arts Gallery – Rwesero

Rwanda's most prestigious art museum is housed inside what was meant to be King Mutara III Rudahigwa's new palace (he died before the building was…

Gisenyi Public Beach

The strip of sand beneath the main town is a justifiably popular place to take a dip. That said, some travellers imagining Caribbean sands are…

Musanze Caves

These four caves, 2km from the town centre along the road to Gisenyi, were created when different lava flows joined to create the Albertine Rift Valley…

Inema Arts Center

Opened in 2012, the privately run Inema Arts Center is a collective of 10 resident artists and guests. It's quickly established itself as the foremost…

Pfunda Tea Estate

During the rainy season, at the height of production, the Pfunda Tea Factory processes up to 90 tonnes of tea from the surrounding plantations daily…

Rusumo Falls

At Rusumo, right between the Rwandan and Tanzanian border posts, the gorgeous Rusumo Falls are the largest waterfalls in Rwanda and a good side trip from…

Museum of Natural History

Kigali's best museum has exhibits on Rwanda’s natural wonders and is housed in the 1907 residence of explorer Richard Kandt, reputed to be the first…

Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International – Karisoke Research Centre

Right in the centre of Musanze, this high-quality research centre features an exhibit that comprises interpretive panels about mountain gorillas and the…

Église St Pierre

While a good number of memorials in Rwanda are stark reminders of the past atrocities, the genocide memorial church of St Pierre is a beautiful, calm and…

Nyanza Genocide Memorial

Located in Kicukiro, a suburb southeast of the city centre towards the airport, there is little to see at this memorial other than the tiled tops of four…

Hotel des Mille Collines

The inspiration for the film Hotel Rwanda, this still-functioning luxury hotel was owned by the Belgian airline Sabena in 1994. At the time of the…

Bisesero Genocide Memorial

About 30km southeast from Kibuye, the small village of Bisesero is home to stunning scenery and a stirring genocide memorial.

Camp Kigali Memorial

The 10 stone columns you find here mark the spot where 10 Belgian UN peacekeepers were murdered on the first day of the genocide. Originally deployed to…

Presidential Palace Museum

This former presidential palace on the eastern outskirts of the city has few exhibits, but it’s interesting to explore, with ‘secret’ rooms and an odd…

National University of Rwanda

Rwanda’s finest institution of learning suffered terribly during the 1994 genocide, though today it has turned towards the future with hope and optimism…

Museum of the Environment

This smart museum on Kibuye's lake shore has educational displays about energy sources and the environmental impact of different types of fuel sources. It…

Main Market

If you have half an hour to spare, make a beeline for the main market, which lies right in the centre of town. It's small but atmospheric. Alongside fresh…

Huye is home to Rwanda’s largest cathedral, which was constructed in the 1930s to commemorate the life of Princess Astrid. The red-brick building is still…

Les Chutes de Ndaba

About 25km from Kibuye along the road to Kigali, keep an eye out for this 100m-high waterfall. Buses usually slow down and helpful locals are quick to…

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35 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda

Posted on September 9, 2022 |

Rwanda is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa and the world. It features stunning mountain scenery, including Virunga Volcanoes, and Lake Kivu. It also has some of the continent’s most striking wildlife. This includes lions, hippos, leopards, and elephants.

It’s also home to some of the continent’s best national parks, including the Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park. Finally, it contains some of the continent’s most beautiful lakes, including Lake Kivu, the source of the Nile.

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and is situated in the center of the country. It is a sprawling city that is spread over many hills and has a lively nightlife. The city is also home to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a monument that documents the 1994 mass killings that occurred in Rwanda during the civil war. Traditional handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven baskets, are also made in the city.

If you love reading, you’ll love the Kigali public library. Here, you can browse through books on history, politics, education, adventure, and religion. You can also use the library’s computers and watch documentaries projected on a large screen. There is also a coffee shop on the premises.

The capital of Rwanda is bustling with bars and restaurants and is safe to visit. It is backed by a beautiful skyline and is home to the Kimironko Market, where local artisans sell carved wooden masks.

Kigali city is the gateway to almost all of the great attractions in Rwanda. It is home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and a number of national parks. It is also known to be Africa’s cleanest and safest city. If you are planning a trip to Rwanda, it is a good idea to start in the city, where you can get a good overview of the culture and history of the country.

The Rwanda Art Museum is another excellent place to visit in the capital, which showcases the works of local artists. Another highlight of the city is Mt. Kigali, a hill on the outskirts of the town that offers a stunning view of the city.

The city of Ruhengeri, also known as Musanze, is the gateway to the Volcanoes National Park, home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park includes Mount Karisimbi and four other forested volcanoes. The town is also home to the Musanze Caves and Lake Burera, which are surrounded by verdant hills.

The area surrounding the city of Ruhengeri is a top tourist spot. It is also the closest town to the Volcanoes National Park, making it an ideal base from which to track mountain gorillas. While you’re in the area, take advantage of the city’s pleasant walks and visit nearby lakes Burera, Ruhondo, and Karago.

While in the area, make sure to check out the Dian Fossey fund memorial museum. It features a 3-D model of the Virunga ranges. You can even take an overnight hike to Mount Karisimbi. Tourism in this area has contributed greatly to the local economy, with 10% of the revenue going towards community projects.

One of the best places to visit in Rwanda is Gitarama National Park. It is located in Muhanga District, which is in the Southern Province. It is about 5,945 feet above sea level. The park features an abundance of wildlife and is well-maintained.

Gitarama is an upcoming tourist destination that is smaller than the rest of the country but has unique things to do and see. It has many religious sites and is ideal for hiking. The park also includes shooting ranges, playgrounds, and natural attractions. The grounds of the park also feature old ruins and ancient statues.

Gitarama is located about 60km from Kigali International Airport. There are scheduled flights to the airport from several international airports. The airport is also accessible by taxi, minibus, and moto-taxis. For visitors who would like to buy local products, Gitarama has several shops and markets.

Huye is one of Rwanda’s eight districts and is located in the Southern Province. Its total area is 581.5 square kilometers. The district is comprised of thirteen sectors, 77 cells, and 508 umudugudus. The district has a total population of 328,298. This means that there are about five people per square kilometer.

If you’re looking for a cultural safari, Huye is the place to go. The city is considered the intellectual and cultural capital of Rwanda, though it lacks political power, which is held by the capital Kigali. It was named by Belgian colonial rulers in honor of Queen Astrid.

The city is home to the National Museum of Rwanda, which has one of the most comprehensive ethnographic collections in East Africa. It is also home to a botanical garden and craft shops.

Visitors to the city will also enjoy the Christian Cathedral in Huye. This historic church is a popular place to worship, and both the interior and exterior of the building have excellent designs. The church also features a striking statue that can be seen in front of the cathedral.

Located in the Western Province of Rwanda, Rusizi is a city that is home to around 63,000 people. The city is an important trading center, bordering Burundi and the DRC. The development of road networks and port facilities will help increase the city’s economic potential.

There are several places to stay in Rusizi, though it is best to book in advance. Several lodgings are located near the Rusizi National Park. Hotels near the park include Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika and Hotel safari gate. If you want to experience the natural beauty of Rwanda, you can visit Rusizi National Park.

Rusizi is the most southern town on Lake Kivu and was formerly known as Cyangugu. It is split into an upper and lower town and sits alongside the Rusizi River as it exits the lake. Travelers can take an Amato boat, made up of three dugouts tied together with bamboo poles, to the nearby Nkombo and Gihaya islands. The latter features abundant birdlife.

Located in the southern region of Rwanda, Nyanza is one of the top places for travelers to visit. Also known as Nyabisindu, Nyanza is the capital city of the Nyanza District. It’s known for its abundant wildlife, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures.

The region of Nyanza is comprised of six counties, including Kisumu, Kisii, Migori, and Siaya. The region is also rich in history, including the birthplace of the Luo tribe and the settling of Ramogi. The region is also home to the famous Yala swamp, one of the largest in Africa.

A visit to this beautiful area will provide you with a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and wildlife. The region has fourteen waterfalls and is a great place for boating and bird-watching. It is best to take a guided tour to experience the area’s beauty. A tour will also help you learn about the area’s history and geography.

You can learn about Rwanda’s fascinating history at the King’s Palace Museum. The museum houses a replica of the traditional royal house. The museum also features exhibits on Inyambo cattle, which descend from the king’s herd. The museum also features the largest ethnographic collection in Africa.

Gisenyi is a town in Rwanda on the shore of Lake Kivu. Visitors can take a kayak out on the clear waters of the lake, and beach resorts line the sandy shore. You can also hike through hilly terrain and pass by waterfalls, tea and coffee plantations, and villages. The Gishwati-Mukura National Park is also nearby, and chimpanzees are found here.

Aside from being a town with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Gisenyi is also known for its community-based tours and volunteer opportunities. The town also has a brewery that is open once a week. You can also enjoy a therapeutic massage at the nearby Kigarama hot springs.

Gisenyi is located in the Rubavu district of Rwanda, on the shore of Lake Kivu. The town coexists with Goma, a city across the border in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Buses and minibusses run between the two cities, leaving as soon as they are full.

You can catch the bus to Gisenyi from Kigali or Kibuye, or take a taxi to Gisenyi from either city. The bus station is conveniently located next to the Petite Barriere border crossing, and ATM services are available in the town.

The town center of Karongi is not large and is made up of the main road and a smaller road lined with shops and office buildings. A tour boat and a guide are provided for your trip. The hotel reception can also help you arrange your tour boat.

Karongi is a stunning location that offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. Not only is it known for its beautiful islands, but it is also an excellent location for kayaking through the islands and water skiing. You can also take a boat tour around Karongi.

These tours are organized by a cooperative, and tickets are available at the ticket office, located after the coffee shop in the bay. If you do not have the time to plan these excursions, you can easily arrange for one through the reception of your hotel.

Another great place to visit in Karongi is the nearby Napoleon Island, which is actually called Tembabagoyi and is shaped like Napoleon’s hat. This island is home to one of the most extensive African Straw-Colored bat colonies in Rwanda.

Because this species is critically endangered in the country, the island is protected as a conservancy. It is also possible to walk up to the island and view the bat colony.

In Karongi, you can also see Rwanda’s award-winning coffee and tea plantations. There are several hotels that have access to private beaches. If you have the time, you can also visit Nyamirundi Island, where you can learn more about the coffee-growing process and taste its finished product.

During your visit to Rwanda, be sure to take a boat ride on the beautiful Lake Rubavu. Many places offer these rides around the lake. You may even encounter foreigners taking these rides as they are in the area. The boats are typically wooden and come with an outboard 15hp engine. They have a wooden roof and can seat eight to ten people.

While in the town, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that makes Rubavu so unique. It is a popular party area for Congo and Rwandans alike. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and you can usually find anything you need in small shops. You can also find a supermarket that sells imported groceries. The Habibu supermarket also bakes fresh bread.

Another attraction in Rubavu is the Pfunda Tea Estate. For tea enthusiasts, this estate provides a magical encounter. Visitors can learn about the growing, processing, and shipping of tea. For nature lovers, you should also visit the Gishwati-Mukura National Park, a recently-created addition to Rwanda’s national park list.

This park is home to chimpanzees and other animals, including the l’hoest’s monkey and the black and white colobus monkey. You can even get close to these creatures.

Located along the shore of Lake Kivu, Kibuye is a sleepy town where you can relax and soak up the stunning scenery. With a secluded bay, peaceful fishing boats, and clear starlit nights, it makes for the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

The town is home to many activities, including biking and water sports. It is also home to the only brewery in the country, and it is a must-visit for beer lovers. You can sample a variety of beers here, including Guiness, Primus, and Amstel.

Kibuye is one of Rwanda’s prettiest towns, with its steep hills jutting into the blue-brown waters of Lake Kivu. There are numerous boat tours from which to choose. It is also home to a memorial to the genocide that occurred in the region in 1994.

The road from Kigali to Kibuye is in good condition, and the scenery is stunning. Besides Kibuye, you can also check out Gisenyi, the largest resort town on Lake Kivu, which is a great place for a family holiday.

One of the most popular places to visit in Rwanda is Nyagatare, a district in the eastern province. Located about 50 km from the capital Kigali, Nyagatare is home to several famous tourist attractions. The district is a thriving center for MICE activities, and is home to half of the country’s Akagera National Park, which is home to a number of animals, including the elusive mountain gorilla and the iconic “Big Five.”

In addition to its wildlife, Nyagatare has a clean, beautiful, and unspoiled environment, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Rwanda.

The town is full of culture and diversity, and it’s home to some of the country’s most famous monuments. The Nyagatare cathedral is the country’s only Catholic church, and Mwima Hill contains the tombs of King Mutara 111 and Queen Rosalie Gicanda.

Gisuma is a charming town located in Rwanda and is renowned for producing coffee. Gisuma coffee is exported worldwide, and its beans are sold in some of the world’s best coffee shops. Coffee has been credited with raising the GDP of the country. However, Gisuma is not just about coffee. It’s also a beautiful place to visit.

While you’re in Rwanda, make sure to visit its national parks. These parks are home to a variety of wildlife and are a must-see attraction. Many national parks offer guided tours, and others offer cycling and hiking tours. It’s worth taking a day or two to explore this beautiful country.

Gisuma is known as the coffee king of Rwanda and is located between the southern end of Lake Kivu and the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Gisuma is home to the famous Gisuma volcano, which explodes about once every thousand years. The area’s methane-rich volcanic soil has made it a popular destination for coffee lovers. Visitors can also tour coffee plantations in Gisuma.

Kibeho is located in the south of Rwanda. The town is about 140 km southwest of Kigali. It is also famous for the apparition of the Virgin Mary, which was reported to have occurred in the 1980s. There are no official records of the appearance, but several people have claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary while visiting this town.

It is also near the Nyungwe Forest, which is one of Rwanda’s most popular tourist attractions. The chimpanzees at Nyungwe National Park are a popular attraction. There are many trails to explore, including the canopy walkway. The park is home to 350 species of birds. During your visit, you can also learn about the country’s native plants and animals.

Kibeho is one of the Sacred Destinations of Rwanda. The Kibeho parish is known for its apparitions. In 1981, a woman named Alphonsine Mumureke claimed to see an apparition of a Lady of incomparable beauty. She presented herself as NyinawaJambo, which means Mother of the Word. It was later recognized by the local bishop and the Notre-Dame des Douleurs Church was built in the parish.

During the 1980s, an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary took place in Kibeho, Rwanda. The apparition is said to have come to warn the people of the coming bloodshed. In fact, this event may have predicted the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The vision was recognized as genuine by the local bishop in 2021. In addition, the Universal Catholic Church recognized the apparitions as legitimate.

If you’re looking for a new place to explore in Rwanda, you may want to check out Butare, a small town about 120 kilometers south of Kigali. It is an emerging tourist destination with unique things to see and do. While smaller than some of the other cities in the country, Butare is home to a number of national centers, including the country’s largest university. In addition, the town is home to a number of terrace restaurants and hotels.

The National Museum of Rwanda is located in Butare and features the country’s largest ethnographic collection in East Africa. It displays traditional artifacts and monochrome photographs that help give a good understanding of pre-colonial lifestyles and the country’s emergence as a modern African state.

Visitors can also visit the nearby Gikongoro Genocide Memorial, a memorial to the nationals who were murdered during the Rwandan Civil War. The museum is about 1.5 km from the town center, and it has a good gift shop that sells local handicrafts. It also hosts a collection of local books.

The town of Kibungo is located in the east of the country, about 100 km from Kigali. It is the administrative, political, and commercial capital of the Ngoma District. The city is known for its beautiful lake Muhazi and is also a good place to spend the day.

There are plenty of activities in and around the town, from shooting ranges to fountains to music and running. The central market is a great place to shop for local souvenirs. Just be prepared to pay cash – some shops may not accept credit cards. Kibungo is a great place to visit in Rwanda for a holiday, as it’s inexpensive and convenient.

There are also many activities to do around the region, including boating to the islands and participating in community-based tours. There are also genocide memorials and coffee and tea plantations to visit.

The Kibungo Central Market is a great place to shop and eat. It’s the heart of the town and a great place to buy local specialties. Although the town itself doesn’t have a great selection of restaurants, this market is the highlight of the area. It is important to note that not all stores accept credit cards, so you’ll need to bring cash with you.

Gorilla Guardians Village

The Gorilla Guardians Village is a place where visitors can interact with the local people and learn about their way of life. The village was established in 2005 with the aim of helping reformed poachers improve their lives, as well as raising awareness of their culture.

It was previously known as the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, which means treasures of our home. 16 years later, you will still see the positive effects that the project has had on the local population.

A visit to the village also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the Rwandan culture, which is based on African traditions and beliefs. Visitors can learn about these traditions through tours of local schools, participate in local soccer matches, and participate in traditional dances. You can even learn how to make banana beer, a popular local drink.

Visitors can participate in traditional activities such as grinding and harvesting local vegetables and herbs. They can also learn how to prepare and eat local dishes such as stew, millet bread, and beans. Traditional healers can also teach visitors about the uses of herbal medicines. They can also show visitors different parts of plants.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is located in Eastern Rwanda. You can go on a game drive in this park, which begins at sunrise. The park is home to a variety of animals, including the big five: lion, elephant, buffalo, and leopard. A game drive in the park can last up to four hours.

The park is home to over 480 different species of birds, making it one of the best places to visit in Rwanda for birdwatchers. You can also take a boat safari on Lake Ihema to spot hippos and crocodiles.

One of the best ways to experience the park is to go on a game drive. There are a number of different routes that you can take, and they offer amazing animal sightings. Early morning game drives will give you the chance to see early risers such as topis, impalas, bushbucks, and zebras grazing in the grasslands. You can also take a nocturnal game drive during which you can spot carnivores such as hyenas hunting for their dinner.

The park’s southern region is home to Lake Ihema, the country’s second-largest lake. At about five to seven meters deep, it is a great place to take a boat ride and see the local wildlife. Tourists may also spot African fish eagles, shoe bill storks, and gazelles.

This park has been the scene of significant conservation efforts. Since the 1990s, poaching has impacted its wildlife population. After the park was placed under the stewardship of the African Parks Network, poaching has been curbed.

Now, the park has a restored population of lions, black rhinos, buffalo, and elephants. It is also home to the endangered leopard. Visiting the park is the perfect add-on to gorilla tracking in the Virungas.

Volcanoes National Park

If you’re interested in exploring Rwanda’s natural beauty, you might want to consider visiting Volcanoes National Park. This national park is home to a thriving culture. During your stay, you can participate in cultural activities with local residents, such as cooking demonstrations and tasting traditional food.

The Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village, located on the edge of the park, also hosts cultural performances and displays. You can also watch the local medicine man prepare traditional remedies.

The Volcanoes National Park is also home to 30% of the world’s mountain gorillas. While there, you can also view golden monkeys and other small primates. You can also trek on the national park’s many trails for a stunning view of the surroundings. You can even hike to the top of one of the volcanoes for spectacular views of the park and surrounding landscape.

Getting to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali is easy. You can take public transport or rent a private vehicle to get there. You should also consider hiring a driver or taxi to transport you around the park.

Gishwati National Park

The Gishwati-Mukura National Park is one of the best bird-watching destinations in Rwanda. It is home to more than 83 species of birds, 15 of which are found only in this part of the Albertine Rift. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Rwanda for birdwatching.

Birding enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities while walking through the park. You can spot species such as the Red-throated Alethe and Grey Crowned Crane in this park. You can also go hiking or camping in the park.

Visitors are welcome to camp and have picnics in the park. For those who enjoy hiking, there is also the Congo-Nile Trail which offers varying levels of difficulty. This trail passes through verdant rolling hills and secluded countryside while offering views of coffee and banana plantations. Visiting the park during the dry season is ideal as the trails are dry and less muddy.

The largest forest in the park is home to golden and blue monkeys. They weigh up to 3 kilograms and can be seen roosting in trees. You can also view around 20 eastern chimpanzees during guided tracking tours. You can also go on a guided nature hike along one of the park’s three marked trails. Moreover, you can see more than 230 species of birds and other animals while hiking through the park.

The park is home to giant tree ferns, which grow in wet areas and represent one of the oldest plant lines. You can also explore the western zone of the Gishwati natural forest on the Umushwati Trail, which will take you to the Pfunda River waterfalls and the Rushubi tea trail.

Nyungwe National Park

The forest of Nyungwe national park is one of the best places to visit in Rwanda. There are over 300 species of birds living in the forest, including 29 endemic species. You can enjoy bird watching at the canopy walkway, the Kamiranzovu trail, and the karamba birding trail.

There are also tour guides that will help you identify the different species. You can look for endemic species such as the blue turaco, Ross’s turaco, and coqui francolin. If you want to have a close look at the bird life, you can visit the park during the rainy season.

If you’re interested in bird watching, Nyungwe National Park is the place to go. It’s a bird lover’s paradise! The 1st gate leads to the Nyungwe Nature Walk, which is a great place to observe various species of birds. The walk is just three to four minutes from Nyungwe Top View Hotel.

The park has many hiking trails, including the Bigugu and Kamiranzovu wetland trails. Each of these trails leads to an interesting attraction. One of the trails is the Igishigishigi trail, which features endemic tree species from the Albertine Rift. Another trail is the Bigugu trail, which takes you to a waterfall and past a tea plantation.

Another highlight of Nyungwe is the forest canopy walk. This unique activity offers a bird’s eye view of the forest below. You will spend two hours strolling on the 200-meter-long canopy trail, where you will be 50 meters above the forest floor. Be warned: this is not a suitable activity for young children.

Lake Burera and Ruhondo

A boat ride around the twin lakes is a great way to see the local wildlife and enjoy the scenery. It is also a great way to see the culture and lifestyle of the locals. Boat cruises are best done in the afternoon and can be combined with other activities.

During your boat cruise, you’ll meet the local people who welcome you with warm smiles and teach you about their way of life. You’ll be able to participate in some of their traditional activities, such as fishing.

If you’re in the mood for some fishing, the twin lakes of Lake Burera and Ruhondo are the perfect destinations. You can learn the local fishing methods from the locals and even bring your own fishing equipment. Other activities around the lakes include biking, camping, and nature walks.

You can visit both Lake Burera and Ruhondo at any time of the year. Birdwatchers will love the opportunity to spot Kingfisher, Cormorant, Darters, and Hamerkop. Visitors can also rent a boat to go on a scenic lake cruise. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take along binoculars and a bird book to view the various water birds.

The Congo-Nile Trail

If you are looking for a challenging biking or hiking experience, you can take the Congo-Nile Trail, which passes through small towns, waterfalls, and fishing villages. You will also pass the Mugonero orphanage and the Kiziba refugee settlement, which houses over 17, 000 Congolese.

Most of the Trail is a single-lane dirt road that winds along Lake Kivu. It is elevated enough to provide beautiful views of the lake. You will also pass through farmland and villages. While route signage is still under development, most people take the Trail from north to south. The northern section is more developed and easier to hike.

There are several campsites on the trail. Campsites range from rustic to upscale. Visitors can also take coffee-growing tours at the Kinunu Coffee Washing Station. However, it is advisable to avoid the wet season when heavy rains can make some sections of the trail difficult to navigate.

To help you plan your journey, you can obtain free maps at the Rwanda Development Board offices in Kigali, Musanze, and Gisenyi. Maps will help you find the right route and the best sights to visit. A map will also help you decide how long you need to spend traveling to see everything. It is advisable to plan your trip for a full week or two.

Mount Karisimbi

Mount Karisimbi is an active stratovolcano located in the Virunga Mountains, on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the highest mountain in the region and forms part of the Albertine Rift, a branch of the East African Rift. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and climbers and is definitely worth a visit.

While you’re there, don’t miss out on gorilla trekking. This is the most popular activity in the Virunga ranges. You can go on a trek through the park to see mountain gorillas. This is a strenuous activity, and it can be quite challenging. Guests can expect to encounter mountain gorillas and bird species during the hike, and even get up close to the famous Dian Fossey’s grave.

While you’re hiking up Mount Karisimbi, be sure to bring your hiking gear. A comfortable pair of hiking shoes is essential for this trek, and you should also pack warm clothes and a waterproof jacket. You’ll also need a walking stick and a tent for overnight camping.

There are porters available for $20 per day who will help you carry your backpack and equipment up the mountain. You can also visit Dian Fossey’s grave and the Karisoke research center. During your hike, be sure to bring your camera.

Mount Bisoke

Mount Bisoke is an active volcano located in the Virunga Mountains. It is part of the Albertine Rift, a western branch of the East African Rift. It straddles the border between Rwanda and the DRC, but its summit lies in Rwanda. If you’re lucky enough to be able to hike up to its summit, you’ll be able to witness the stunning view that is atop the mountain.

A one-day trek up Mount Bisoke is a great way to see the crater lakes and enjoy Rwanda’s spectacular scenery. It takes about 6 hours to climb the mountain and a few hours to return. The hiking tour begins in Kinigi, where hikers will be transported to the hiking site. From there, they’ll follow well-marked trails up to the summit. From there, they’ll have views of the second crater lake.

As an active volcano, Mount Bisoke requires extra strength and endurance. Depending on how much you want to trek, it can last anywhere from five to a full day. The mountain’s three zones of vegetation provide refuge for a diverse variety of wildlife. The area is home to golden monkeys and critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Kimironko And Caplaki Markets

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Rwanda, Kimironko Market is the place to be. Its colorful stalls, showcasing local crafts, and bustling atmosphere make it one of the most exciting places in the country. This market is also a popular place to people-watch.

The market is located on the outskirts of Kigali and is the largest in the country. The market is open every day and offers a wide variety of products. You can find everything from fruit and vegetables to clothing and handicrafts. You can also get some great souvenirs for yourself at bargain prices.

If you love animal life, this place is definitely for you. Here, you can experience the culture and customs of the local people. You can also take a guided tour. These tours start early, so you can see the animals at their most active. You can also find lodges and camping grounds in the area.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, you can also head to the Caplaki market. This market is full of handmade fabrics, baskets, carvings, and more. You can also try local foods at the market, which is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. The market is also home to a thriving art scene, which showcases the work of local and international artists.

Musanze is the gateway to the Volcanoes National Park, home to golden monkeys and mountain gorillas. The park encompasses Mount Karisimbi and four other forested volcanoes. The town is also home to the Musanze Caves, nestled in lush greenery. Its lake Burera is nestled against verdant hills.

Musanze is located about two hours outside of Kigali and is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. On the way to Musanze, you will drive through the famous thousand-hills landscape. You will also see the active volcanoes just outside of town, which is often hidden by cloud cover.

The Musanze caves are located in Musanze, at the foot of the Volcanoes National Park. The caves are two kilometers long and have 31 entrances. The main entrance is ten kilometers wide and a colony of bats is found here. A 2013 Rwanda Development Board project developed the caves.

The Musanze Caves in Rwanda are a popular tourist destination. The caves are filled with beautiful scenery. Visitors can see the surrounding area and the wider Virunga ranges. They can also see the Karisimbi volcano and hike through the Bisoke volcano. The caves are also a popular place for photographers.

The caves are part of the Virunga Volcanoes, which formed 65 million years ago. You can explore them on a guided tour led by a professional tour guide. There is a $55 entry fee, which covers the cost of transportation to the site and tips for the guides. The caves are accessible year-round, but advance booking is recommended.

The caves are also home to a large population of bats. You can see bats hanging upside down in almost every small room, and different plants are growing on the walls. The caves used to serve as a refuge during the genocide in Rwanda.

Virunga Mountains

The Virunga Mountains are a chain of eight major volcanoes that span Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Five of these volcanoes form the Volcanoes National Park. The most popular hike is on Mount Bisoke, with stunning views of the Virunga Mountains and the chance to see mountain gorillas.

The Virunga Mountains are home to endangered mountain gorillas, and there are also numerous other animals that live here. Visitors can also experience a close encounter with golden monkeys and Albertine birds, as well as primates, antelopes, and giraffes.

The Virunga Mountains are a must-visit location for Rwanda travelers. A four-day trip to Rwanda should include a visit to Amahoro Island, a nature reserve with a wealth of primates. Also, don’t miss out on the Akagera National Park, where you’ll be able to see red-tailed monkeys and get a taste of the African savannah.

Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest lake and covers more than 2,700 square kilometers. The Congo trial offers panoramic views of the lake and is also a great hiking destination. The trail takes about ten days and passes through lush hills and green vegetation.

This lake is surrounded by terraced hills and offers a spectacular view. You can bike around the lake and see the surrounding scenery. Another reason to visit Lake Kivu is that it is one of the country’s top coffee producers.

If you love fishing, Lake Kivu is a great place for you. The lake is home to nearly 30 species of fish. Tourists can engage in sport fishing on the lake. They often catch sardines, sambazas, and cichlids. Water sports are also popular on the lake, and visitors can rent or carry game equipment.

Lake Kivu is a wonderful place for water sports, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing. There are many companies offering these activities, and tourists can book a day of canoeing or a multi-day package. Visitors can also go on cultural tours and visit village communities. Biking around the lake is another common activity.

There are many more activities to choose from, including boat cruises, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing, and swimming. If you have time, you can choose to explore different lakeside towns. Each city has different activities, and you can plan your own itinerary to fit your interests.

Many of the lakefront hotels provide breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. Several bird species can be seen at the lake, including the Yellow-throated Greenbul and Speckled Pigeon. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby Bugarura Island.

Mount Kigali

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the country’s natural beauty, Mount Kigali is an excellent option. You can hike up the mountain, passing through charming villages, before descending and enjoying the view. At the base of the mountain, you can visit the Fazenda Sengha recreation center, where you can try a variety of local beverages and even ride a horse through the forest.

The area around Lake Kivu is full of natural beauty. The region is home to three “exploding lakes” in the world, which means that it is a spectacular sight. The eruptions, known as limnic eruptions, are rare natural disasters that result in huge eruptions of carbon dioxide.

Historically, limnic eruptions have killed off anything living nearby, but they’re now more likely to emit a warm vapor. You can even experience a limnic eruption yourself. The region surrounding the lake has many interesting sights, including catholic cathedrals and coffee fields.

National Museum of Rwanda

If you’re interested in Rwandan history and culture, the National Museum of Rwanda is an excellent place to start. This museum features displays that give insight into the early Rwandan way of life.

The exhibitions feature items such as clothing, food, hunting and storage, and traditional ritual objects. Visitors can also see a replica of the king’s palace. The museum is open to the public, but photography is not permitted.

While visiting the National Museum of Rwanda, you should also visit the Inema Arts Center, where you can admire the works of local artists. Also, if you’re interested in contemporary art, you should also visit the Rwanda Art Museum, which is located in the former Presidential Palace.

This museum also features the remains of a presidential airplane. Finally, don’t forget to try the locally produced coffee at the Question Coffee Café.

King’s Palace Museum

If you’re in Rwanda, a visit to the King’s Palace Museum is an excellent choice. It was built in 1931 by the Belgians and served as the royal palace until the genocide in 1994.

While most of the furnishings were looted and destroyed during the genocide, the museum still has some excellent panels that detail the history of Rwanda and its people. For example, you can read about the first mwami, King Mutara III Rudahigwa, and his conversion to Catholicism. You can see how his conversion to Christianity earned him the affection of the Belgian rulers.

The museum is located in Nyanza, a town located just south of Kigali. The museum has a number of exhibitions, including one on traditional Rwandese beliefs. It also features exhibits on the country’s history and culture.

Inema Art Center

The Inema Arts Center is an arts center and gallery located in the capital of Rwanda. It exhibits artworks from artists from Rwanda and neighboring countries. This unique arts center is a great place to learn about Rwanda’s history and culture. Visitors to the center will also get a chance to interact with artists.

The Inema Arts Center is a private organization run by ten resident and guest artists. It has established itself as one of the best places to see modern Rwandan art. It also hosts dance and music performances several times a week. You can also purchase artwork at the center, as well as attend courses and take part in various activities. The center also has a small cafe on site.

The Inema Art Center is an excellent place to learn about the history of Rwanda’s genocide. The main exhibit explores how the genocide affected Rwandan society and the divisions between the Hutus and Tutsis. The center also has powerful photographs, audiovisual displays, and stories from survivors. The museum also houses a memorial garden and memorials for victims of the genocide.

Kigali Genocide Memorial

There are many reasons to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. From the story of the genocide itself to the recent efforts to rebuild the country, this memorial is a must-see for anyone traveling to Rwanda. A brief video explains the background of the genocide and provides a good introduction to the country’s culture. The museum’s other exhibits cover everything from Belgian colonialism to today’s reconstruction efforts.

In addition to the genocide memorial, visitors can visit the gardens. The memorial is open to the public from 8 am to 4 pm daily. The memorial is free to visit, although donations are welcomed. All proceeds help to maintain the memorial, preserve its archives, and provide educational programs for visitors.

After the genocide, the Kigali City Council began construction of the memorial center. They asked the UK-based Aegis Trust to help them make their vision a reality. Aegis Trust worked with Kigali City Council to collect data from all over the world and design three graphical exhibits. These were then shipped to Rwanda to be displayed.

Nyamata Genocide Memorial

The Nyamata Genocide Memorial is a powerful and humbling place to visit. It features a cemetery of genocide victims as well as a former technical school that now holds the remains of close to 1200 victims. It is also home to artifacts from the genocide and shops selling Rwandan souvenirs.

The Nyamata Genocide Memorial is located in a church in the town of Bugesera, just 40 minutes south of Kigali. It commemorates the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The memorial also has a museum displaying bones, skulls, and clothing scraps. The museum serves as a stark reminder to those who deny the genocide.

The Nyamata Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for over 40,000 Rwandan genocide victims. The memorial includes the clothing of the victims who were murdered during the genocide. More than 45 000 people were murdered in one day.

The Cultural Heritage Corridor

If you have the chance to visit Rwanda, you should definitely go and see some of the country’s cultural heritage. You may have heard of Mount Huye, which was home to the Nyagacecuru kingdom during the 16th century. They were eventually overpowered by King Ruganzu 11, who wanted to create a modern kingdom. This is the place where you can see their remains and experience their culture.

You can also visit the Nyamata Genocide Memorial, which is one of the most visited memorials in the country. The genocide claimed over 800,000 lives, and you can see the bones of many of the victims. You can also visit the mass grave, where thousands of victims were buried.

The Cultural Heritage Corridor is one of Rwanda’s top destinations. You’ll discover a range of cultural attractions as well as Rwanda’s beautiful countryside.

Visiting Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The capital city of Kigali offers a great African experience along with white sand beaches on Lake Kivu and great cultural experiences.

The country has many beautiful sights. There are many national parks where you can see gorillas, giraffes, zebras, and other wild animals in their natural habitats. There are also many cultural attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre and the National Museum of Rwanda.

Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries to visit. The people are very friendly, the crime rate is very low, and the country’s infrastructure has improved dramatically since the end of the genocide. The infrastructure includes paved roads, new hotels, and new airports. Rwanda is also very safe for women to travel alone.

Overall, you should experience Rwanda for the beautiful landscape and clean air that it offers.

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• Akagera National Park
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
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• Adventure Travel
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10 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Finding something to do in Rwanda is easy! It’s only the choice that’s difficult to make. From rare attractions and museums to sports and galleries, you can choose from taking a gorilla trek in Parc Nationale des Volcans (PNV) to just lolling on a beach with your family or an adventure safari through Akagera National Park. Just go and try it!!

Rwanda features a lot of tourist attractions, from World Heritage Sites to national parks, ruined palaces and cultural sites, to hands on museums.

Rwanda is truly a country with some thing for every one to enjoy. Here are a few of the many things to do in Rwanda.

• Visit Rwanda’s famous primates in nyungwe national park, akagera national park, and volcanoes national park including golden monkeys, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and baboons to name a few.
• Track the world renowned mountain gorillas in volcanoes national park.,
• Join birding safari tour to experience the diversity of Rwanda’s birdlife and visit several of Rwanda’s (IBA’s) Important Birding  Areas; Nyabalongo wetlands, Akagera National park, Nyungwe forest national park, Akanyaru wetlands, Rugezi marsh, volcanoes national park and Cyamundongo forest.
• Explore Nyungwe national Park’s amazing water falls or orchids and butterflies.
• Explore one of 52 surveyed caves in Rwanda. Formed from Cenozoic volcanic rocks.
• Visit Rwanda’s largest lake, Lake Kivu and its many islands and beach resort towns rubavu and Karongi.
• Go canoeing, kayaking and wind surfing on Lake Kivu.
• Go mountain climbing at volcanoes national park-don’t miss the 5 th highest mountain in Africa- or mountain biking over Rwanda’s thousand hills.
• Enjoy a full tradition Rwandan experience including dancing, traditional crafts, archery, tradition healers, food and a taste of Rwanda’s local brew at Iby’Iwacu village in Musanze in Rwanda’s Northern Province.
• Enjoy fish dishes and a relaxing day at Lake Muhazi around 60km from Kigali.
• Tour Kigali on the Kigali city tour bus and learn all there is to know about Rwanda’s capital city.
• Go shopping for Rwandan crafts at one of the many local markets or cooperatives throughout the country.
• Travel back in time at the king’s place, Nyanza.
• Visit Rwanda’s genocide memorial sites; Kigali memorial site; murambi memorial site; Nyanza Kicukiro memorial site; and Ntarama Memorial site.

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Best Things To Do In Rwanda: Tourist & Attractions

The things to do in Rwanda are not many, but very unique.  The country is long passed its war torn days and now is one of the safest countries to visit in Africa.  I was blown away when I first arrived in the country because it didn’t feel like Africa at all, it felt like Germany.  Unlike other Eastern Africa  countries there is strict law and order, there isn’t any garbage on the streets, and lawns are manicured to impossible perfection.

The country is extremely small and there is one thing that everyone knows you can do in Rwanda, gorilla trekking.  I would implore you to get to know the people of the nation as they have been through very tumultuous times and have risen above that to create a very unique place in Africa. I will be sharing my Rwanda travel guides soon so stay tuned!

Kigali: Capital of Rwanda

A very unique city in the heart of Rwanda, Kigali is a gorgeous city with great weather.  You can get a taste of history here by visiting the genocide memorials and learn about the turbulent past of the country.  While I lived in Kenya & Ethiopia while I was living overseas  in Africa, after visiting Rwanda you could definitely settle down here.  The internet is also reliable as I was able to day trade from the capital.

Gorilla Trekking

Most people think that the only thing to do in Rwanda is to see the Gorillas.  A very unique experience when you can get inches away from Gorillas is something that you can’t put a price on.  The largest group of gorillas are in Uganda but you can also have a great experience in Rwanda. I chose Uganda, check out my travel blog for stories of my trip!

National Parks

A Rwanda tourist attractions list wouldn’t be right without adding the list of national parks in the country.  Rwanda is a host to a great variation of animals aside from gorillas including chimpanzees and a variety of birds as well.  Some of the popular parks are Akagera and Nyungwe.

Part of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu is the border between Rwanda & DR Congo.  A great relaxing region where tourists are safe to visit and swim (ask locals where) and its also extremely picturesque.  Make sure that you try to visit cities like Kibuye and Gisenye near the DR Congo border.

Butare (Huye)

This is the cultural hub for the country and was once the most important city before 1965.  Here you will find a great national museum that will show the great history of Rwanda and also it’s entrance into the modern world.  Visit the nearby Nyabisindu (Nayanza) where you can find the impressive royal palace of Rwanda’s fuedal monarchy.

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11 Top Things to Do & Places to Visit in Kigali

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Kigali deserves more space in a tourist's itinerary than a one-night stopover bookending the ultimate adventure: trekking to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park . Over the last two decades, Rwanda's lush, hilly capital has developed into a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination, teeming with art, culture, and cuisine. Plus, the attractive urban center is one of the cleanest and safest cities in all of Africa .

No matter how much time you have to spend in Kigali, you should plan to devote at least a couple of hours to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The haunting museum explains the events that fueled the 1994 Rwandan genocide, and gives some essential context for the subsequent decades of peace and development in the country.

Then, explore Kigali's charming neighborhoods and attractions. Sip bold, sustainable java at Question Coffee Cafe. Shop for locally made souvenirs at the Nyamirambo Women's Center. Lose yourself in contemporary artwork at the Rwanda Art Museum.

As you plan your trip to Rwanda , don't miss out on everything the country's largest city has to offer. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top things to do in Kigali.

1. Kigali Genocide Memorial

2. inema arts center, 3. rwanda art museum, 4. kimironko market, 5. nyamirambo women's center, 6. amahoro stadium, 7. question coffee cafe, 8. hôtel des mille collines, 9. camp kigali memorial, 10. niyo arts gallery, 11. mount kigali, map of things to do & places to visit in kigali.

You can't begin to appreciate everything Rwanda has become until you understand the reasons behind the devastating Rwandan genocide–a conflict that killed some 800,000 people, most of whom were members of the Tutsi ethnic minority, in just 100 days. The Kigali Genocide Memorial sheds light on the historical events that led to the genocide and horrifying realities Rwandans faced in 1994.

Prepare yourself: A visit to the memorial (where 250,000 victims are interred) is emotionally demanding but gives tourists a foundation with which to comprehend this complex country. You'll start by watching a short documentary film about the Rwandan genocide before making your way through three permanent exhibitions, filled with artifacts, timelines, historical information, and photographs.

The main exhibit focuses on the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and moderate Hutus. It explains how colonization affected Rwandan society and created divisions that previously didn't exist between Hutus and Tutsis. Then, through displays of powerful photographs, artifacts, and audio-visual displays on dark, circular halls, the exhibit unveils the events that sparked the genocide, what happened during those 100 brutal days, heart-wrenching stories of survival, and feats of rescue from locals and outsiders alike. Sculptures and stained-glass windows pepper the moving space, making it feel sacred.

You'll eventually make your way through the Children's Room , which displays a gallery of life-size portraits of the youngest victims of the genocide, some of whom were infants. It keeps the memory of the children alive through details about their favorite toys, sports, foods, songs, and more. The museum concludes with an exhibit on other genocides and massacres around the world , putting the Rwandan genocide into context and examining potential strategies for prevention and intervention.

After your visit, head outside to pay your respects to the victims in the Gardens of Reflection. The park-like setting offers the right atmosphere for quiet contemplation on everything you just saw.

Address: KG 14 Ave., Kigali

Official site: https://www.kgm.rw/

Founded by a pair of brothers (both self-taught painters) on a mission to "tap the untapped potential of art in Rwanda," the Inema Arts Center has become the place to visit to see contemporary art in Kigali since its founding in 2012. The building's exteriors are decked out in colorful murals that make it impossible to miss.

Inema Arts Center devotes its interiors to gallery space for 10 artists in residence . Tourists may see modern takes on traditional African crafts, abstract and expressive portraits, mixed-media works depicting scenes of African life, and some of the best artwork in Rwanda, depending on which mix of artists are on display during their visit.

The invitation to come admire the work comes with no obligation to make a purchase, but should you wish to take something home, the center can help arrange shipping.

In addition to visual art, the Inema Arts Center also hosts weekly dance performances, art-inspired yoga classes, gallery tours, and concerts . Get in touch with the center directly to learn about things to do during your visit.

Address: KG 563 Street, Kacyiru Kigali

Official site: https://www.inemaartcenter.com/

The Inema Arts Center isn't the only place to experience art in Kigali. Tourists can also check out the Rwanda Art Museum, an institution housed in the former Presidential Palace on the outskirts of Kigali. It's one of the country's eight national museums.

Opened in May 2018, the Rwanda Art Museum is the only contemporary art museum in Rwanda. It showcases the breadth of local creativity, as well as works from international artists. The sprawling space displays more than 100 works of art, including ceramics, sculptures, paintings, and experimental pieces made in a variety of mediums.

Interestingly, the grounds of the museum also contain the debris from the presidential jet that crashed on April 6, 1994. Pieces from the Falcon 50 aircraft jolt up from the grass like pinnacles.

Address: KK 106 Street, Kigali

Kimironko Market, Kigali's largest and busiest market, makes for an incredible afternoon of sightseeing. Hundreds of vendors have set up shop in the massive warehouse complex, hustling everything from bed sheets and carved masks to a cornucopia of produce sourced from all over East Africa. You'll walk single file through tight pathways, ducking beneath hanging t-shirts and negotiating space with women carrying large baskets on their heads.

If there's one thing you must take home from this market, it's bespoke clothing. Shopkeepers here will help you choose vibrant, patterned fabrics from thousands of options on offer. Then, you'll select from different styles of garments–anything from tank tops and wide-legged pants to leggings and dresses–before getting measured and handing the order off to one of the on-site tailors.

In about an hour, you'll have custom, made-to-measure clothes to wear on the rest of your adventures around Kigali (and a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home!). Make sure you try them on before leaving the market, just in case you need adjustments

It's natural to want to capture this exciting slice of Kigali life in photos. However, many shopkeepers here are camera shy and prefer not to be photographed. Use discretion when taking snapshots, and always ask permission before photographing people.

Address: 194 St. Kg., Kigali

If you want to shop for truly heartwarming souvenirs, swing by the Nyamirambo Women's Center. The women-founded organization was launched in late 2007 in an effort to address gender inequality and empower women.

In addition to offering free education and vocational training, it employs women at fair wages to fill its intimate boutique with ethically-made goods . Tourists can pick up beautifully printed tote bags, hand-woven baskets in every shape and size, patterned place mats, crocheted rugs, beaded jewelry, and local-inspired fashions.

If some of the best shopping in the area isn't enough of a draw, here's another reason why visiting the Nyamiramo Women's Center is one of the best things to do in Kigali: its community immersions. The group offers fascinating walks through Nyamirambo with guides who were either born in the neighborhood or live here now, taking travelers through local hair salons, mosques, tailors, and agricultural businesses.

The center also invites tourists to participate in traditional cooking classes and basket-weaving workshops. The experiences will give you an insider's view of Rwandan culture.

Address: KN 7 Ave., Kigali

Official site: http://www.nwc-umutima.org/

Amahoro Stadium is the best place to see sports and entertainment in Rwanda. Sitting in the stands with up to 25,000 excited spectators watching Rayon Sports Football Club and Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Football Club take on opponents is an unforgettable experience, thrusting tourists into the heart of Rwanda's fervor for soccer.

The stadium also hosts rugby matches, live performances, marathons, and other events. Check the events listings in the local newspapers, or ask your hotel concierge about what's coming up during your stay.

Amahoro, which means "peace," is more than a sports center, though–it's a historical site. Around 12,000 people sought refuge at the stadium for weeks during the Rwandan genocide, trying to survive with little more than the clothes on their back under the open sky. The stadium pays homage to this important piece of history with events of remembrance around the anniversary of the genocide.

In March 2022, a 24-month renovation project kicked off at the stadium. It will eventually bring the attraction's capacity to a whopping 45,000 people, so expect even bigger crowds in the future.

Address: KG 17 Ave., Rukiri II, Kigali

Coffee is a critical part of the Rwandan economy, bringing tens of millions of dollars into the country each year. But despite growing some of the finest beans in the world, Rwanda doesn't have much of a local coffee culture. It exports nearly all of its coffee.

Question Coffee is working to change that. It works directly with farmers to source the country's best beans, improve the growing and roasting techniques and supporting local growers.

Tourists can get a taste of this made-in-Rwanda product (and even take some beans home) at Question Coffee Cafe in Gishushu . Baristas serve a variety of speciality espresso beverages, pour-over coffee, and caffeinated drinks infused with unexpected ingredients, like tree tomato.

Looking for a deeper immersion into Rwanda's coffee culture? Check out Question's roasting and cupping classes and cooperative tours , which will explain the entire process, from bean to brew.

Address: KG 8 Ave., Kigali

Official site: https://www.questioncoffee.com/

One of the most famous sites in Kigali–and perhaps even in all of Rwanda–is Hôtel des Mille Collines . Located in the Central Business District , the hotel sheltered hundreds of people during the Rwandan genocide. They hid in groups of up to 10 in unnumbered rooms and relied on the pool for drinking water. Tourists may already be familiar with the story from the 2004 fictional film, Hotel Rwanda .

The still-functioning luxury hotel is now one of the best places to stay in Kigali. But even if you choose to book a room elsewhere, you can still experience a piece of this unique place at the hotel's weekly Culture Night , held every Friday. It celebrates Rwandan culture with live music and dance performances , as well as meals made with nearly all local ingredients .

Hot tip: Want to see an incredible view of Kigali? Head to the appropriately named Le Panorama Restaurant , on the fourth floor of Hôtel des Mille Collines, and prepare to have your breath taken away.

Address: 2 KN 6 Ave., Kigali

Official site: https://www.millecollines.rw/

Just steps away from the Kigali Serena Hotel and the Kigali Marriott Hotel , the Camp Kigali Memorial is a quiet, sacred space where 10 Belgian soldiers became some of the earliest victims of the Rwandan genocide. They had been sent by General Dallaire to guard the residence of moderate Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana. Presidential Guard soldiers captured the Belgians, seized their weapons, and brought them to this spot in Kigali, where they were murdered.

Now, the Camp Kigali Memorial pays tribute to each of these victims with 10 solemn stone pillars, jutting up in a circle from a platform of pebbles. Look closely at the horizontal cuts carved into each column–they represent the age of each soldier. The tops of the pillars are broken, symbolizing the soldiers' brutal end. At the base of each stone, you'll see the initials of each soldier.

Just outside the memorial is a small museum , riddled with bullet holes from this important day.

More than just a dark tourism site , the Camp Kigali Memorial is a sobering space to understand the horrors of what Rwandans went through in 1994. It gives visitors a more intimate understanding of the genocide and a greater appreciation for the eventual unification of all Rwandans.

Address: KN 3 Ave., Kigali

After visiting the Rwanda Art Museum , tourists can see even more works from local creators at Niyo Arts Gallery. It offers creative space for 17 artists in residence, who have expertise in everything from oil painting and graffiti art to Rwandan drumming and dancing . Tourists can see vibrant works displayed in rooms throughout the gallery, catch occasional performances, and enjoy meet and greets with the artists.

More than just an art center, Niyo is also an organization on a mission to fight global poverty. It donates a portion of its proceeds to local orphanages.

Address: KG 572 Street, Kigali

No matter where you are in the city, you can probably see its main natural attraction: Mount Kigali. Tourists can hike this gentle slope in an hour or two from near the Nyamirambo Stadium (follow the signs for Fazenda Sengha ) and catch incredible views of the city from a variety of vantage points. The short hike will also take you through a lovely eucalyptus forest, coffee plantation, and a series of rustic neighborhoods.

The trail can be tricky to follow, so it's recommended to hire a guide for your first trip. Consider asking your hotel concierge to connect you with a local expert.

Tourist Attractions in Rwanda

• Post author: admin
• Post published: May 2, 2023
• Post category: Rwanda Safari Guide / Travel Tips

7 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Rwanda; Top Sights

If you’re planning to Visit Rwanda , all blogs will point you to these top-rated Tourist Attractions in Rwanda , from Volcanoes National Park to Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Rwanda is a beautiful country in East Africa with a rich wildlife, history and culture. It has 4 national parks, several museums, lakes, forests and many other attractions, here are the Top 7 Most Popular Destinations in Rwanda.

The 7 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Rwanda;

Volcanoes national park.

The Volcanoes National Park is located 116 km from Kigali, and it’s a 2-hour drive through the beautiful mountains. The highlight of the park is the gorilla trekking adventure. Tourists can spend a full hour with the mountain gorillas as they observe gorillas feeding, playing and how amazing their size is.

Volcanoes national park is one of 4 parks in the world where the critically endangered mountain gorillas live. The park’s lush bamboo forests provide a dramatic setting for travelers who want to experience one of the most memorable wildlife experiences.

Mountain Gorilla trekking is all what Volcanoes can offer, the park is also known to be one of the few homes to another endangered primates’ specie, the golden monkeys. Visitors can enjoy golden monkey trekking just like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes.

Other activities that makes Volcanoes national park a prime Tourist Attractions in Rwanda are; Dian Fossey tombs hike, Iby’iwachu cultural experience, nature walks, bird watching and mountain climbing.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is another top-rated Tourist Attractions in Rwanda. The park is popular for chimpanzee trekking experiences. The experience differs from gorilla trekking, as the chimps are running around, so the sightings are a bit more sporadic and rushed.

While in the park, visitors can also try the canopy walk, which gives an exhilarating tree-to-eye view of Nyungwe Forest . This is a vantage point for bird watching in Nyungwe Forest.

Visitors can also visit The Gisovu and Gisakura Tea Factories and discover how the tea is harvested and even taste the specialty.

3. Kigali Genocide Memorial.

If you ever wanted to learn about the dark history of Rwanda, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is the place to visit. The museum combines both the history of Rwanda – the 1994 Rwandan Genocide as well the vibrant culture of the country. This is where the skulls and bones of over 250,000 victims were laid.

The museum is all horror, as visitors are being guided around, they also get the chance to learn about the efforts in place to promote reconciliation and healing of the country today. You will never appreciate Rwanda tourism if you don’t visit Kigali Genocide Memorial – history and culture should always be part of any itinerary.

4.  Lake Kivu.

Ever heard of the African Great Lakes, lake Kivu is one of them and is the largest lake in Rwanda shared with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Besides the beautiful scenery around lake Kivu , it is among the largest freshwater lakes on the continent and is the biggest source of fish in Rwanda.

Lake Kivu is a superlative place for boat cruise in Rwanda, kayaking adventures and swimming. The birders also call this lake a haven. Visitors can also tour nearby towns such as Gisenyi and Kibuye.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is a classic African wildlife safari destination. The park is home to a variety of wild animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, leopards, buffalos, antelopes, and hippos. It’s also a popular destination in Rwanda to spot crocodiles, baboons, and other primates.

Visitors to Akagera National Park can enjoy wildlife viewing through game drives, scenic boat ride on Lake Ihema, sport fishing on the lake, or a bird watching tour and guided nature walks with an experienced local guide.

Musanze Caves

Located in the Northern province of Rwanda, the Musanze Caves give tourists a rare look into Rwandan earth and history.

Visitors can take guided tours that explain the history of the caves from their formation to their various uses in history, such as acting as a shelter during ancient history and periods of war.

The Congo Nile Trail

The Congo Nile Trail is a 227 km trail along Lake Kivu that extends from Rubavu to Rusizi District.

The trail gives stunning views of the Lake Kivu and beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills and clear water. Visitors can hike the entire trail, which takes 10 days, or bike it, which takes 5 days. The trip can also be done in sections if visitors do not have time to complete the entire trail.

There are many Tourists Attractions in Rwanda, over 40 but, these 7 receive the most visitors due to their unique experiences and location. You can checkout some of our most popular Rwanda Tourism Packages .

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An estimated 500 chimpanzees live throughout the forest, making fresh nests in the treetops each evening.

Photo Credit : Annabel Illingworth

The mountain gorilla is the only great ape seeing its population increase, thanks combined efforts to ensure their survival.

Around 600 of these magnificent and gentle creatures live on the Rwandan side of the Virunga Massif, including 41 social groups and 14 solitary males.

Seven lions were reintroduced to the park in 2015 and their numbers have now doubled.

Type of Destinations

Kibeho Parish has been a global pilgrimage destination for Roman Catholics since the Virgin Mary appeared on 28 November 1981

Rwanda's fourth National Park, Gishwati Mukura is made up of two separate forests - the larger Gishwati and small Mukura. It is home to chimpanzees, golden, blue and L'Hoest's monkeys as well as a host of birds and smaller animals.

Peaceful and compact, Huye was founded in the early colonial era. Today is a centre of academia, as well as housing the Ethnographic Museum.

One of the oldest rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe is rich in biodiversity and spectacularly beautiful. The mountainous region is teaming with wildlife, including a small population of chimpanzees as well as 12 other species of primate.

A small town on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the closest town to Nyungwe National Park. Budget accommodation here will appeal to self-drive visitors to the National Park.

Home to the King's Palace - a reconstruction of the traditional royal residence, a beautifully-crafted thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive.

Close to the Volcanoes National Park, Musanze is a hassle-free and buzzing city, with plenty of choice for eating out, ATMs to withdraw cash, vibrant nightlife, markets and artisanal trades.

Part of Africa™s Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu is dotted with islands and inlets along its shoreline, with charming beach resorts, spectacular vistas and plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling.

The relatively warm and low-lying plains of Akagera comprise savannah, woodland, wetland and a dozen lakes. In partnership with African Parks, we have reintroduced lions and rhinos, meaning once again visitors can hope to see the Big Five on safari drives.

A popular beach retreat on the shores of Lake Kivu with majestic vistas, a tranquil atmosphere and easy access from Kigali.

A waterfront town on the shores of Lake Kivu, with red sandy beaches, warm clean water and an easygoing tropical character.

œIn the heart of Central Africa, so high up that you shiver more than you sweat, wrote the eminent primatologist Dian Fossey, œare great, old volcanoes towering almost 15,000 feet, and nearly covered with rich, green rainforest - the Virungas.

Parc des Volcans

The capital city is pleasantly low key yet dynamic and progressive. It's green, clean and safe with meaningful culture and remarkable drive.

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Home » Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rwanda

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rwanda

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rwanda are some of the common features in the Country that attract many travellers to flock Rwanda for Tourism. Some of these include National Parks, Physical Features, Towns and many more as described below:

1: NATIONAL PARKS

National Parks in Rwanda are some of the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rwanda since they are the most visited places in the country. Rwanda is one of the countries in East Africa that is blessed with a number of natural resource like the wildlife that can be seen in protected areas like game reserves, sanctuaries, forests among other areas. However some of the protected areas which can catch your eyes are the national parks where a variety of animal, bird and plant species can be seen not leaving behind  the landforms like lakes, rivers, mountains among others which will make your experience memorable and because of this, the country’s national parks qualify to be part of the top 10 tourist attractions in Rwanda.

• Volcanoes National Park:  Looking for an adventure-filled fun trip in Rwanda then you should not miss Volcanoes national park where the Rwanda gorilla tours are carried out in the country. While visiting volcanoes national park , you will have a chance to see different attractions in the park including the Rwanda gorilla families that are usually found on the different slopes of the Virunga Mountains that are found within the park. Apart from Rwanda Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park , you can also opt for other activities like golden monkey trekking , birding, and Virunga Mountains hike among other activities. 

• Akagera national park:  Akagera national park is the only national park in Rwanda where the big five animals can be seen. The park is a home to all the big five that is the lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard and the elephant and a number of other animal species that can be seen during the game drive in the park where a number of animals can be seen grazing in the plains like the giraffe, zebras, leopards, hyenas, lions. It is home to several antelopes like bushbucks, Topis, Oribi, water-buck, roan antelope and duiker, bohor reedbuck, klipspringer, impala, the Cape eland among other animals. Other activities you can participate in to make your trip in the country memorable include a boat cruise on Lake Ihema, sport fishing can be carried out in the park, and community walks among other activities to make your Rwanda tour worthy of repeated visits.
• Nyungwe national park:  For your ultimate safari experience, Nyungwe national park should be among your to-do list while in Rwanda. The park is known for its numerous numbers of chimpanzees that can be seen jumping from the different tree branches. At the park, you can go to different trails that can lead you to different activities for instance the igishigishigi trail where you can find the canopy walkway , Muzimu trail where you can have a beautiful view of Lake Kivu , the Isumo waterfalls trail where you can do Isumo waterfalls hike and see the falls among other trails, birding in the park is another interesting activity that can be carried out with the presence of over 350 bird species. Other attractions in the park include other primates like a Silver monkey, Golden monkey, Owl-faced monkey, Grey-cheeked Mangabey, Red-tailed monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, Vervet monkey among others making your tour to the park interesting.

2: GENOCIDE MEMORIAL SITES

The 1994 Rwanda genocide brought a lot of pain to the Rwandans and the world at large when brothers killed one another because of the need for one group of people having the need to be supreme over the others and also the need to wipe away the Tutsi group of people from the history of Rwanda. It should be noted that the 1994 Rwanda genocide started after the then president juvenile Habyarimana’s aeroplane was shot which led to his death and also the president of Burundi who was Hutus and the suspect were the Tutsis under the Rwanda patriotic front. And from that day the mass slaughter of the Tutsis, moderate Hutus and the twas started and it should be noted that over 800000-1000000 were killed which was a tuff moment for many Rwandans and after the victory of the Rwanda patriotic front and the end of the genocide, today as a way of remembering the lost souls in the genocide, a number of genocide memorial sites were established which can be visited while on your Rwanda genocide tour .

• Kigali genocide memorial site:  Located in Kigali city, the Kigali genocide memorial museum will make you go through roller coasters emotions with the different displays of the victims that lost their lives. Display of the last words of the victims will break your heart once you visit the 3 exhibition area that is to say the large exhibition area which gives an insight of how Rwanda was before the genocide especially during and after colonisation, ho the tensions rose from the different tribal groups because of the need to go into power. After seeing the different displays, you will then move along to see how people were killed, and with the audio sound, you will have the opportunity to hear the voices in the background crying for help which is so heartbreaking.  The children exhibition area is the most hurting one of the exhibition rooms; here you will see how young souls that had dreams were lost in the genocide in the period of months. The young ones had aspirations but they were unable to fulfil them because of the ruthless hearts of the Hutus, pictorials of the victims are seen on the displays and there last words, their dreams which is so heartening. And finally you will have a chance to see the third exhibition area the world genocide history exhibition area where different genocides from different area can be seen which shows that the world needs change and at the end of your trip, love will be spread because the museum focuses on spreading love among one another and to avoid segregation.
• Murambi genocide memorial site:  Just like the Kigali genocide memorial site, Murambi genocide memorial site has a lot of significance in 1994, Rwanda genocide where over thousands of people were killed in the site, before the genocide, the site was a technical school which focused on equipping students with technical skills. It is quite absurd that when the Tutsis came to seek refuge in a nearby church, a bishop tricked them to go to Murambi technical school saying there was help from the Belgian government but once they reached there it broke their hearts that there was no one to help which was a trap they fell into many Tutsis were killed in the area and those that we’re able to escape were killed the following day.  Interested in visiting different genocide memorial sites, to increase your knowledge about the Rwanda genocide, you should carry out the Rwanda genocide memorial tour and visit the different sites.

3: CULTURAL SITES

• Ibyi’wacu cultural village:  Rwanda has a number of attractions that can be seen while on a Rwanda tour but among the attractions, one should not miss out visiting the ibyi’wacu cultural village because you will have a chance to experience the life of an authentic Rwandan without any duplications which makes the experience memorable. The cultural village will perform different songs, dances for you and also give you the opportunity to participate in the different activities like basket weaving, making of local handmade ghee this experience has won many hands of travellers and be sure for your heart to be won with the different authentic activities to participate in.
• King’s palace:  A replica of the traditional king’s palace was constructed to give a feel of the olden times when there were kingdoms in Rwanda. A tour to the king’s palace will give you the opportunity to see how the people of long ago used to live. At the palace, there are many features that can be seen including a woman guide dressed in the umushanana a traditional silk dress for the people that is worn by women in Rwanda that will direct you to the grass thatched house. But the highlight of the trip is the long-horned cattle that can be seen decorated with beads and interesting about the cattle is the keeper who seems to understand them very well because they can be seen listening to them as they follow him as he sings to them which is quite fascinating.
• Ethnographic museum:  The ethnographic museum in Rwanda is one of the tourist attractions that cannot be missed out on a Rwanda tour because of the nice displays that can be seen while you visit it. The museum is one of Africa’s ethnographic museums which was a gift from the king of Belgium in the 1980’s. In the museum you will have a chance to understand the Rwanda culture in one place where you can see  a number of displays like items that were used to hunt, cook, to carry out agriculture, traditional clothing, you can also see the history, culture, cosmology of the Rwandans from the different display rooms. You can choose to visit the ethnographic museum and later on the king’s palace to see the evolution between the Rwanda culture before and after colonisation.
• Presidential palace:  The presidential palace which is another museum in the country should not be missed on your to-do list while on the Rwanda tour , the presidential palace was the home to the late Juvenal Habyarimana the then president of Rwanda whose death led to the outbreak of the Rwanda genocide, the presidential palace tour will give you the chance to have an insight of the life of the president who had a worship palace where he carried out his witchcraft from, he had a secret gun cabinet  and interesting about the palace, you will have the chance to see part of the plane which was shot down that led to his death.

5: FESTIVALS

Rwanda is a vibrant country with a number of activities that can be carried out while on the Rwanda tour, among which will make your trip to the country worth telling to a friend. Among the engaging attractions and activities that can be participated in include the festivals on your trip while in Rwanda and these include the following.

• Kwita Izina:  While on your Rwanda gorilla tours , you should book your tours in order to participate in the interesting Kwita izina festival of conservation of the gorillas in the country. On the festival different high profile people like international musicians, models are invited to be part of the celebrations which all rotate around the naming of new gorillas born in volcanoes national park where gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be carried out. The park is a home to the different Rwanda gorilla families , golden monkeys, and bird species among others. Other festivals that can be participated in include; Kigali up, the Rwanda mini film festival, Centre X Festival etc

6: RELIGIOUS SITES

Faith-based tourists in Rwanda will have a chance to see a number of religious sites in Rwanda while on their Rwanda tour Our lady of Kibeho, which is also connected to the Rwanda genocide memorial sites because of the three girls in the secondary school who received visions that are believed to have been the warnings of the 1994 Rwanda genocide. It is believed that the girls received the visions for a period of a year before the genocide happened to make it one of the sacred places to visit while on a Rwanda tour.  Other religious sites include; Nyamata Church Kigali, Cathedral of St. Michael Kigali, Butare catholic Cathedral Butare, Byumba Cathedral Byumba Nyabugogo Mosque Kigali and so on.

7: RECREATION AREAS

In Rwanda you should not forget to visit the different recreation areas where you can participate in different out day and indoor activities, for instance, the beaches like Gisenyi public beach, lake kivu beach among other beaches, visiting different restaurants where different cuisines like Akabenz (cooked pork), meat skewers with chips, Ibirayi a mixture of goat’s meat and potatoes which will give you an amazing experience while in the country.

8: PLANTATIONS

• Sorwathe tea plantation and Pfandu teas estate:  Located between Kigali and Musanze, you will have the chance to visit the different tea plantations where a number of activities will be carried out like harvesting tea, drying tea, tea tasting among other activities. At the plantations, lunch will be served to ensure that you have an amazing experience at the plantations.
• Huye mountain coffee:  Coffee lovers on a Rwanda tour will have the chance to participate in the coffee-making process where they can go coffee harvesting, roasting and grinding till when they make the final product ready to be tasted. At the plantation, you will tour the plantation which is quite relaxing as you move along the different paths in the plantation.

9: LANDFORMS

Rwanda is blessed with a number of landforms like mountains including the Virunga Mountains that can be found in Volcanoes national park, mountain Kigali that is found in Kigali city , lakes like Lake Muhazi, Lake Kivu where a number of activities can be carried out like boat cruises, sport fishing, canoeing among others. On the lakes, a number of attractions like water birds, crocodiles can be seen to improve your experience in the park.

10: MAJOR TOWNS 

While in Rwanda, you can visit the different towns/ cities in the country which offer different attractions and activities that are quite engaging and interesting. Among the cities and towns that can be visited in the country include; Kigali city where you can go on a Kigali city tour where you can see a number of attractions like mountain Kigali, Nyamirambo Muslim quarters, Kigali genocide memorial museums among other attractions. Gisenyi town can also be visited where you can visit, Gisenyi public beach, an African art gallery where different art pieces can be seen, you can also be taught art by participating in the art classes for a day that are provided at the gallery and so many others activities.