Volcanoes National Park.

The best thing to do in Rwanda is unquestionably go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This national park in Rwanda, which shares a border with both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is home to an increasing number of critically endangered mountain gorillas. A huge increase from the 240–250 gorillas present in the park in 1981, experts believe that there are now roughly 600 of them there.

To see one of the mountain gorilla families that have been habituated to humans, you’ll need to obtain one of the limited number of daily trekking permits for $1,500. The most straightforward method to go about it is through a reputable tour operator like Primate Holidays, who can also organize transportation from Kigali to the park’s headquarters. As well the park offers spectacular golden monkey trekking safari to the travelers that come to explore the park.

Gorilla trekking safari experience usually lasts between thirty minutes to six hours, most of which is spent hiking through mystical bamboo forests, wild meadows, and swampy areas. One of the habituated gorilla families will eventually be reached with the help of national park staff guides. You’ll spend an hour watching the animals as they eat, look after their young, and engage in social interactions.

In Rwanda, going in search of gorillas is generally seen as a safe activity. Most gorillas are uninterested in the presence of humans. Visitors are protected from any risks by armed guides who communicate with the gorillas using a variety of clicking noises, making the experience unforgettable.

At the beginning of the treks in Volcanoes National Park, porters are available. Hiring one for the day is worthwhile because they can carry your belongings and keep you from slipping on the muddy walkways.

Are you curious to know more about mountain gorillas? After your trekking adventure, head to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International Karisoke Research Center in the nearby town of Musanze. It contains a small, yet robust museum all about mountain gorillas and the work of conservationist Dian Fossey, whose endeavours to protect gorillas were made famous by the 1988 drama, Gorillas in the Mist.

Akagera national park.

You may get close to the country’s unique wildlife species by exploring the biodiverse Akagera National Park, a savannah-dominating Protected Area in the country’s eastern border. Its savannah grasslands, forests, wetlands, lakes, and forest galleries offer a home for pink-backed pelicans, kingfishers, grey crowned cranes, and a staggering 66% of all known bird species in the country. The big five mammals like  leopards, lions, rhinos, Cape buffaloes, and African bush elephants can only be found in Akagera National Park in the country. Masai giraffes, black and white colobus monkeys, jackals, topis, Defassa waterbucks, Roan antelopes, Klipspringers, Oribis, bushbucks, and serval cats are just a few of the other animals that may be seen in this Protected Area.

Kigali Genocide Memorial.

It’s difficult to believe that less than two decades ago, Rwanda was experiencing a brutal genocide that claimed the lives of more than 800,000 people in just 100 days. Although the nation has made great strides since the horrifying tragedy, the legacy of this recent history will continue to affect present-day individuals and future generations.

Kigali Genocide Memorial is a place where tourists can learn about this horrifying incident. The eerie museum explores the events that led up to the 1994 genocide and vividly depicts the horrors through galleries of images, artefacts, and information. The main display hall is surrounded by sombre sculptures and has stained-glass windows that illuminate the area with optimism.

Another ongoing permanent exhibit at the museum explores the history of global genocide and international community efforts to intervene, providing context for the Rwandan genocide.

A stirring Children’s Room honoring the smallest genocide victims is also present in the exhibit. Through oversized photographs of the kids, some of whom were still infants when they died, and personal information about the deceased, including their nicknames and favourite books, it preserves their memories.

Even though it is painful, going to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a crucial component of being a responsible traveler in Rwanda. Give yourself some time to reflect on the experience and observe a moment of silence for the 250,000 victims buried here in the Gardens of Reflection of the memorial.

Lake Kivu.

You’ll be ready to rest after all of your outdoor activities, and there is no better spot to do so in Rwanda than Lake Kivu. The largest lake in Rwanda measures 2,700 square kilometres and is encircled by hazy mountains. Take it all in from the resort town of Rubavu on the northernmost point of Lake Kivu. Along with a beautiful beach and gorgeous facilities (such as the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel), it features a bustling waterfront. Spending a few days in this tranquil village will rejuvenate you.

With Kingfisher Journeys, you may get even closer to the scenery. The tour operator can offer unforgettable multi-day paddling expeditions as well as breathtaking sunset kayak trips with singing fishermen on Lake Kivu.

Gishwati Mukura National Park.

In late 2020, Rwanda debuted its fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura, giving tourists yet another natural attraction to visit. One of the few montane rainforests in Central Africa is being preserved by the national park, which is 34 square kilometres in size.

The bigger of the two forest in the park, Gishwati, is open to visitors. Numerous primates live there, including about 20 eastern chimpanzees, blue and golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s, and golden monkeys. You have the best chance of viewing the tenacious animals on guided chimpanzee trekking safari expeditions. On three clearly indicated pathways in the forest, you may also take part in a guided nature walk. Bring a pair of binoculars so you can examine the more than 230 different bird species that inhabit the forest up close.

Kigali.

Many tourists only stay one night in Kigali before going gorilla trekking, skipping out on the city’s vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and sightseeing opportunities. Consider coming here for at least a few days at the start or finish of your journey.

At Kigali’s largest market, Kimironko Market, stock up on custom clothing made from swirlingly patterned fabrics and take in the vibrant environment. There are surprises at every turn in the warehouse, which resembles a maze.

Then, visit Inema Arts Centre, a gallery that features the creations of up to 10 resident local artists, to learn more about Kigali’s artistic community. Go to the Rwanda Art Museum, which is located in the former Presidential Palace. It showcases some of the best modern artwork from Rwanda and the surrounding areas. Debris from the presidential plane that crashed in 1994 is also visible.

When you’re ready to refuel, savor an authentic Rwandan cup of Joe at Question Coffee Cafe. To see what novel caffeinated concoctions the baristas have lately created, check out the cafe’s specialties menu. They’re known to infuse some coffee beverages with unexpected local ingredients, like tree tomato.

Finally, unwind with a delectable lunch at one of Kigali’s top eateries. The Hôtel des Mille Collines’ Le Panorama Restaurant offers spectacular city views in addition to a varied cuisine of regional and international specialties.

Visit the outdoor dining area at Fusion Restaurant at The Retreat for an even more romantic ambiance. It offers fresh seafood, tasty appetizers, and homemade pastas while looking out over a sparkling pool.

Nyungwe forest national park.

Nearly 137 miles south-west of the Capital, you will find Nyungwe Forest, National Park. Here, two habituated chimpanzee communities are habituated for trekking. It is every visitor’s desire to abandon the safari vehicle and explore Nyungwe Forest National Park on-foot to search for the endangered chimpanzees that call the forest home. Walking with an armed Park Ranger and guide, you will come across the closest relatives of mankind playing, jumping on tree branches, munching on vegetation or resting, Best Safari experiences in Rwanda. While chimpanzees are the main attraction of Nyungwe Forest National Park, visitors can also see vervet monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and Angola colobus monkeys by trekking one of