1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda is one of the only places in the world where you can trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. Located in Volcanoes National Park, this once-in-a-lifetime experience involves hiking through lush bamboo forests to encounter these majestic creatures up close.

✅ Why it’s unmissable: Life-changing, emotional, and only possible in a few places on Earth.
📍 Best Time: June to September & December to February

 2. Safari in Akagera National Park

Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is home to the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. With its savannah landscapes, lakes, and wetlands, Akagera is perfect for game drives and boat safaris.

✅ Highlights: Sunset boat rides on Lake Ihema, guided game drives, birdwatching
🐘 Great for: Families, couples, wildlife lovers

 3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Explore the ancient Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. Hike through misty rainforests, cross Africa’s highest canopy walkway, and listen to the calls of primates in the treetops.

✅ Don’t miss: The 70m-high canopy walkway and guided chimp tracking
🌿 Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, and birders

 4. Hike Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi

If you’re up for a challenge, trek to the top of Mount Bisoke (with a crater lake at its summit) or the multi-day climb up Mount Karisimbi—the highest peak in Rwanda. These volcano hikes take you deep into Volcanoes National Park and offer incredible views.

✅ Best for: Adventure seekers, fitness enthusiasts, nature photographers

 5. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

Located in the capital, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It offers education, reflection, and a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s journey to peace.

✅ Why visit: Essential for understanding Rwanda’s history, healing, and resilience
🕊️ Great for: Cultural tourists, history lovers

 6. Relax on the Shores of Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, located between Gisenyi and Kibuye, is one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The area is perfect for kayaking, swimming, boat tours, and relaxing by the water. It’s also a great stop between Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Park.

✅ Top experiences: Island hopping, local fishing tours, lakeside biking
🌅 Best for: Honeymooners, couples, wellness travelers

 7. Discover Rwandan Culture & Crafts

Rwanda has a rich cultural heritage, showcased through traditional dance, basket weaving, and community tourism projects. Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park or take part in hands-on experiences like banana beer brewing or traditional cooking.

✅ Perfect for: Cultural immersion, family trips, responsible tourism

 8. Cycle the Congo Nile Trail

Stretching over 200km along Lake Kivu, this cycling and hiking trail passes through remote villages, lush hillsides, and coffee plantations. It’s a slower, scenic way to see Rwanda and connect with local life.

✅ Who it’s for: Active travelers, off-the-beaten-path explorers

 9. Tour a Rwandan Coffee Plantation

Rwanda is famous for its high-quality Arabica coffee. You can tour coffee farms near Lake Kivu or Nyungwe Forest, learn about the bean-to-cup process, and enjoy tastings in the stunning countryside.

✅ Best for: Coffee lovers, agrotourism fans, cultural explorers

10. Explore Kigali – Africa’s Cleanest Capital

Don’t skip Kigali! This vibrant city offers a blend of modern art galleries, local markets, rooftop bars, and green urban planning. Take a city tour with a local guide for authentic insight into daily life and post-genocide transformation.

✅ Top sites: Kimironko Market, Inema Arts Centre, Kigali Convention Centre