The 10 incredible things to do in Rwanda are the most popular and done safari activities in Rwanda, that will take you to the most beautiful places in Rwanda. The 10 incredible things to do in Rwanda will allow you to experience all the top safari experiences and activities in Rwanda while giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, unique landscapes, and jangles for adventure. These are some of the incredible things you can do on a safari in Rwanda;
Gorilla Tracking
Trekking gorillas in the misty Virunga Mountains northwest of Rwanda, in Volcanoes National Park, is a thrilling adventure of a lifetime. Your expedition will be filled with anticipation, wonder, and the thrill of encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Your adventure begins with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters. Here, you’ll meet your expert guide and receive important information about gorilla trekking etiquette and safety.
Set off on a guided hike through the lush rain forest, following trails that wind through bamboo forests, volcanic slopes, and verdant meadows. The gorilla trek can vary in length and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorillas. Trekkers usually spend between 2 to 6 hours, including the time spent with the gorillas. The hike can be challenging, with steep and muddy trails, but the reward is the unforgettable encounter with the gorillas.
Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll have a precious hour to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Witness their playful interactions, their tender moments of family bonding, and their sheer majesty as they navigate their jungle home.
Your gorilla trek will be a truly transformative experience, leaving you with a profound appreciation for these incredible creatures and the importance of their conservation.
Golden Monkey Tracking
Rwanda is one of the last strongholds for golden monkeys. These beautiful monkeys thrive in the Virunga ranges (Uganda, Rwanda and Congo) and in Kahuzi Biega National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Golden monkeys are endangered and because of that are highly protected. Although eagles are their natural prey, humans are their greatest threat. Tourist love golden monkeys because of their beautiful gold coats, playful nature and endangered status. Golden Monkey tracking in Rwanda starts with a briefing at 7:30am. It is less tiring than gorilla trekking because the monkeys don’t move too far off in the forest.
Hiking Karisimbi
For adventure lovers, a hike to the highest point in Rwanda is worthwhile. Mount Karisimbi is the highest volcano in Rwanda and the fifth highest in Africa. This Mountain is part of the Virunga Ranges that spans three countries Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. Climbing or Hiking to the summit of this volcano is a worthwhile challenge that you should include in your bucket list when traveling to Rwanda. The highest point on Mount Karisimbi is at an elevation of 4,507 meters (14,787 feet).
The name “Karisimbi” translates to “white shell” in Kinyarwanda, referring to the frequently snow-capped summit. Since it is sitting high in the clouds, a hiking adventure will allow you to have a breathtaking view of Rwanda and all the nearby surroundings. Hiking to the summit of this volcano takes a minimum of two days, with overnight camping at approximately 3,800 meters (12,500 feet). Climbing to the summit of Mount Karisimbi requires physical fitness, and endurance – for those with past hiking experience you will surely succeed in reaching the top of this volcano.
Gorilla guardian’s village
The gorilla guardians cultural experience is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. This activity is one of the unique and incredible activities to do in Rwanda and it is popular for travelers visiting Volcanoes National Park. The Rwanda cultural experience allows travelers to learn more about Rwanda people. The Iby’iwacu cultural visit in Rwanda will provide you with an opportunity to learn about the traditional way of life of the local community. The Iby’iwacu cultural experience is centered around the Iby’iwacu Village, which is located outside of Volcanoes National Park, home to the Batwa people.
At the gorilla guardians Village, you will be introduced to various aspects of Batwa culture, including traditional dances, songs, and costumes among others. You will also learn about hunting techniques, cultivation practices, and other customs that have been passed down through generations. One of the most exciting experiences in Rwanda.
Gatecrashing the Annual Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Festival
If festivals and culture are your kinds of vacation activities, then you’ll love gatecrashing the annual Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Festival held in September. The festival is steeped in cultural meaning, ancient Kinyarwanda customs, and traditions of naming babies a few weeks after birth. Attending life-changing experiences in Rwanda at the Kwita Izina Festival will give meaning to your travels in Africa.
Rwanda hosts this week-long festival of cultural activities every September to raise wildlife conservation awareness and funds. The festival contributes to protecting the country’s mountain gorillas and expanding the gorilla habitat. It’s one of the world’s most respected conservation and sustainable tourism activities.
Some of the incredible things to do at Rwanda’s Kwita Izina include dancing to the tunes of traditional music, viewing art, and attending the gorilla naming ceremonies with performances from local students and artists.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
In Nyungwe forest, Rwanda has one of the oldest afro-montane forests in Africa. This forest is found in the South Western part of the country and is home to 13 species of primates including chimpanzees. Nyungwe forest is one of the last strongholds of the Angola Colobus and Golden Monkeys. While exploring the forest, visitors have over 15 trails to choose from for a nature walk. If nature walks are not your thing, you can choose to go for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe forest or the very popular canopy walk. Regardless of which particular activity you register for, you will be rewarded with amazing sightings of birds (310 species), primates (13 species), butterflies (120 species), plants (over 1,000 species), amphibians (32 species), reptiles (38 species) and ancient trees.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe forest
Apart from chimpanzee trekking and nature walks, one of the best canopies walk trails in Africa is found in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest. The forest canopy walk was introduced in 2010 in an effort to diversify tourism activities in the country. The canopy walkway is 50 meters high hence offering an aerial view of the forest and the creatures therein. The walkway sways left and right as one moves from one point to another hence requiring some confidence to complete the walk. You need to be warned in advance if you have a fear of heights.
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
As you travel through Rwanda, it’s impossible not to think about the relatively recent Rwandan Genocide, in which more than 800,000 people died in just 100 days. The tragic event changed the course of history for the country, as well as the lives of everyday people who lost countless friends and relatives just a couple of decades ago. Travelers can begin trying to understand the incomprehensible event at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Through halls of photographs, artifacts and informative stories, the museum explains the build up to the genocide, what occurred during those 100 horrific days and how Rwanda has worked to unite as a country in the wake of the devastation. It also includes an exhibit on the youngest victims of the genocide, with life-size photos and touching personal details about these children’s short lives. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial is equal parts heartbreaking and insightful, but without a doubt essential to understanding the complex country of Rwanda.
Learn how to pick tea leaves
After trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, you might be eager to relax with a cup of tea. Fortunately, tea plantations blanket the area around the park, offering not only dreamy scenery, but the chance to learn the art of cultivating the caffeine-laced leaves. Gisakura Tea Estate invites tourists to experience a couple of hours in the life of a tea leaf picker. The pickers will let you wear their backpack-basket and show you the delicate technique of plucking tea leaves with just three fingers. It’s harder than it looks! Then, you’ll watch as their impressive hauls are weighed and trucked to the factory for processing.
Take a Boat Trip on Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, is not only beautiful but also a great source of fun. The best time to take a boat trip on the lake is at sunrise or sunset when you will be able to appreciate the stunning scenery from a different perspective.
You can also engage in water activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing, immersing yourself in the serenity of the lake.
If you’re an adventurous soul, diving and snorkeling in Lake Kivu offer a chance to explore the underwater world. Dive sites, such as the underwater methane gas fields and submerged coffee plantations, provide unique and memorable experiences.
In conclusion
As you leave Rwanda, you’ll carry with you not only cherished memories of its natural wonders but also a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and ongoing efforts to protect and sustain its remarkable beauty.
Rwanda is a destination that offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and conservation, making it an unforgettable journey for any traveler seeking to explore the unusual and discover the extraordinary.