Rwanda is a small country full of big surprises. You can see gorillas, go on a safari, walk in the rainforest, and learn about rich culture all in one trip. In this blog, I’ll share a simple travel journey across Rwanda. You start in the capital city and travel in a loop through nature, lakes, history, and wildlife.
Let’s explore together.
Start in Kigali – Clean, Safe, and Full of History
Your journey begins in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. It’s a peaceful and clean city surrounded by green hills.
Things to do in Kigali:
• Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s history
• Explore local markets and see colorful fruits, fabrics, and crafts
• Visit art centers and small museums to learn about modern Rwandan life
Kigali is also a good place to relax after your flight and get ready for your adventure.
Head to Musanze – Meet the Mountain Gorillas
From Kigali, take a drive north to Musanze, the town near Volcanoes National Park. The road is smooth and the views are amazing, with mountains and farms all around.
In Volcanoes National Park:
• Go gorilla trekking – hike through the forest to meet a gorilla family. You will spend one hour watching them up close.
• You can also go golden monkey trekking these monkeys are fun to watch as they jump between trees.
• Visit the Twin Lakes, Burera and Ruhondo, for peaceful views and local boat rides.
This area is green, cool, and full of natural beauty.
Relax by Lake Kivu – Peaceful and Beautiful
After the mountains, travel west to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. It is a perfect place to rest and enjoy the water.
Things to do at Lake Kivu:
• Swim or relax at the beach
• Take a boat ride or walk along the lake
• Visit local hot springs
• Learn about Rwandan coffee from local farmers
You can stay in the town of Gisenyi, which sits right on the lakeshore. It’s a calm and quiet place, perfect after trekking.
Explore Nyungwe Forest – Walk in the Rainforest
From Lake Kivu, continue your trip south to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The drive is long, but the scenery is beautiful the whole way.
In Nyungwe:
• Go on a Canopy Walk – a high bridge that lets you walk above the forest
• Take a guided hike to see birds, plants, and waterfalls
• If you start early, you can go chimpanzee trekking see chimps swinging through the trees
This forest is cool, green, and full of life.
Visit Huye – Discover Rwandan Culture
After the forest, drive to Huye (also known as Butare), a small city known for culture and learning.
What to do in Huye:
• Visit the Ethnographic Museum – see traditional clothes, tools, music, and homes
• Learn how Rwandans lived long ago and how the culture has grown
• Enjoy the local town with small cafes and peaceful streets
Huye is a great stop to connect with Rwandan traditions.
Finish with a Safari in Akagera National Park
Your final stop is Akagera National Park, in the east of Rwanda. This park is full of animals and open grasslands.
In Akagera:
• Take a safari drive to look for elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and more
• Go on a boat ride on Lake Ihema to see hippos and crocodiles
• Watch birds and enjoy wide-open views
Akagera is very different from the forests and hills here, the land is flat and wild.
What to Pack
• Walking or hiking shoes
• Light clothes for warm days, and a sweater for cool mornings
• Rain jacket
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera or phone
• Sunscreen and insect spray
Why Travel in Rwanda
Rwanda gives you everything in one trip:
• Gorillas in the misty mountains
• Wild animals on a safari
• Peaceful lakes
• Deep green forests
• A strong and beautiful culture
• And kind, welcoming people
