Rwanda is one of the best destinations in Africa for mountain biking (MTB) and road biking safaris. Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills country, Rwanda offers challenging climbs, smooth paved roads, beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and a strong cycling culture.
The country is safe, clean, and well organized, making it ideal for cyclists looking for adventure, comfort, and unique safari experiences.
Mountain Biking (MTB) Trails in Rwanda
Rwanda’s hilly terrain and rural roads make it perfect for mountain biking. Trails pass through villages, forests, lakesides, and volcanic landscapes.
Congo Nile Trail
The Congo Nile Trail is Rwanda’s most famous MTB route & it is unique trail in the world due to is features.
Key highlights:
•About 227 km long
•Runs along Lake Kivu
•Dirt roads, hills, and village paths
•Suitable for intermediate and advanced riders
The trail can be completed in 5 to 10 days or ridden in shorter sections.
Twin Lakes MTB Trails (Burera and Ruhondo)
The Twin Lakes area is located near Volcanoes National Park and offers some of the most scenic rides in Rwanda.
These trails offer:
•Rolling hills and farmland tracks
•Views of lakes, volcanoes, and local villages
•Cool mountain weather
This area is ideal to combine cycling with activities in Volcanoes National Park.
Volcanoes National Park Community Trails
Cycling around Volcanoes National Park includes community and forest-edge trails.
Main features:
•Volcanic soil and challenging climbs
•Short but technical routes
•Cultural interaction with local communities
These trails are best for riders who enjoy both adventure and culture.
Nyungwe Forest MTB Trails
Near Nyungwe National park Rwanda, MTB routes pass through tea plantations and forest roads.
What to expect:
•Green rainforest scenery
•Cool temperatures
•Long and peaceful rides
Akagera Cycling Trails
Akagera National park offers a different cycling experience in Rwanda’s eastern savannah.
Cycling in this region includes:
•Flat and gently rolling dirt roads
•Open landscapes and lakes
•Community cycling zones near the park
Cycling here can be combined with wildlife activities such as game drives and boat safaris.
Road Biking in Rwanda
Rwanda is also excellent for road cycling. Most main roads are well paved and have light traffic outside major towns.
Kigali Road Cycling Routes
Kigali is a popular base for road cyclists.
Popular road routes include:
•Kigali to Mount Kigali and Nyamata
•Kigali to Rwamagana
•Kigali city training loops
These routes offer long climbs, smooth descents, and good road conditions.
Lake Kivu Road Cycling Route
The road along lake kivu is one of the most scenic cycling routes in East Africa.
Highlights include:
•Smooth tarmac roads
•Lake and mountain views
•Beach and village stopovers
Rwanda and International Cycling
Rwanda is internationally recognized as a strong cycling nation.
The country has hosted Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) sanctioned events, proving that Rwanda meets global standards for professional cycling.
Tour du Rwanda
The Tour du Rwanda is Rwanda’s leading international cycling race and one of the most respected cycling competitions in Africa.
About the race:
•UCI-recognized professional road race
•Attracts international and African cycling teams
•Routes pass through Kigali, Lake Kivu, Volcanoes region, and southern Rwanda
This race highlights Rwanda’s quality roads, challenging climbs, and strong event organization.
Combine Cycling with Safari and Other Activities
A biking safari in Rwanda can easily be combined with other experiences.
Popular combinations include:
•Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
•Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
•Wildlife safaris and boat trips in Akagera National Park
•Cultural village visits and community tours
•Coffee and tea plantation experiences
Why Rwanda Is Ideal for a Biking Safari
Key reasons to choose Rwanda:
•Safe and clean travel environment
•Friendly and welcoming people
•Excellent MTB and road cycling routes
•Short distances between parks and regions
•Easy combination of cycling, wildlife, and culture
Rwanda is an excellent destination for MTB and road biking safaris. From the Congo Nile Trail and Twin Lakes, to Kigali’s road routes, Lake Kivu, Nyungwe Forest, and Akagera savannah, Rwanda offers a complete and rewarding cycling experience.
For travelers looking to combine cycling with wildlife, culture, and beautiful scenery, Rwanda is one of the best choices in Africa.
