Rwanda
Encounter gorillas and more incredible wildlife in this small country that packs a punch.
Rwanda may be small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty and diversity. It has shaken off its troubled past and is now a shining example of a stable, warm, and welcoming country. Here you can experience some of the best safaris in Africa, tick off a bucket-list adventure by going in search of Dian Fossey’s Gorillas in the Mist, and relax on the shores of one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes, surrounded by rolling hills and verdant landscapes.
Volcanoes National Park is the most famous destination in Rwanda, home to ten different communities of mountain gorillas. Depart with your experienced guide in small groups in search of these magnificent beasts as well as golden monkeys, bushbucks, and other rare wildlife. The experience is both thrilling and deeply humbling, offering an intimate connection with nature unlike anywhere else. For a classic safari experience, Akagera National Park offers a premier African adventure. Explore the sprawling savannah, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and countless other species against a backdrop of stunning scenery.
Rwanda is also home to one of Africa’s oldest and most pristine forests. Enjoy a walk along the forest canopy walkway through Nyungwe National Park, a rainforest dating back to the prehistoric era. Encounter playful monkeys, colorful birds, butterflies, and an amazing mix of vegetation amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For relaxation, the best spot in Rwanda is Lake Kivu. Head out onto the water for a peaceful boat trip, try your hand at canoeing or fishing, or take a refreshing dip in the warm waters. Alternatively, simply relax on the tranquil shores, soaking up the peace and serenity of one of Africa’s Great Lakes, framed by hills dotted with charming lakeside villages.
- Currency
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- Language
- CAPITAL CITY
- NATIONAL DISH
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Key Experiences
- Wildlife
Rwanda offers extraordinary wildlife experiences, from tracking mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park to classic savannah safaris in Akagera.
- Culture
Rwanda’s welcoming communities and inspiring history deepen the safari experience, offering a unique connection to the land and its people.
- Adventure
Hike scenic trails through lush forests or unwind on the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu, enjoying boat trips, canoeing and the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.
Key Locations
When to Visit Rwanda
Rwanda is a year-round destination, with its compact size and varied landscapes making travel possible at any time. The country has two dry seasons, which are the best times for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing.
BEST WEATHER IN Rwanda
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Sample Itineraries
Our Rwanda
The Humboldt team’s Rwanda highlights
A flavour I’ll never forget…
“Rwandan cuisine is wonderfully fresh and hearty. I recommend trying brochettes with local vegetables and the traditional isombe (a cassava leaf dish) at a family-run restaurant. It’s a meal that feels truly rooted in the country- it’s a must try in my opinion.”
FOUNDER, TRAVEL DESIGNER
FAQs
For a focused gorilla trekking experience, a 7-day itinerary is ideal, allowing time for acclimatisation, one or two treks in Volcanoes National Park, and perhaps a visit to Kigali or Lake Kivu. For a broader exploration of Rwanda’s national parks, culture, and landscapes, including Akagera for big game and Nyungwe for chimpanzee tracking, we recommend up to 10 days. Rwanda’s compact size allows for a rewarding and immersive journey without long travel times.
Rwanda pairs naturally with Uganda for those interested in more primate trekking or with Kenya or Tanzania for a more traditional Big Five safari. Flights from Kigali connect easily to safari hubs like Nairobi and Arusha, making it simple to combine gorilla trekking in Rwanda with a classic safari experience or even a beach extension on the Kenyan Coast or Zanzibar.
Most travellers, including those from the UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand require a visa to enter Rwanda. However, visas can be easily obtained online via Rwanda’s e-visa portal or on arrival at Kigali International Airport. Rwanda is also part of the East African Tourist Visa, which allows entry to Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya with a single visa, ideal for multi-country trips. For the latest guidance, we recommend checking with your nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate before you travel.
Yes, certain vaccinations are recommended. If you’re arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever, a yellow fever certificate is required. Routine vaccinations such as MMR, tetanus, hepatitis A and typhoid are also advised. Depending on your itinerary, malaria prophylaxis may be recommended. A consultation with your travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure is best to ensure you’re properly prepared.
Rwanda is considered one of the safest and most stable countries in Africa, with a strong focus on tourism and conservation. Kigali is notably clean and secure and national parks are professionally managed with high levels of visitor care. As with all travel, standard precautions are recommended, such as using trusted guides, avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and following local advice. The warmth of the people and pride in national development are part of what makes Rwanda such a special destination.
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