Things To Do In Rwanda

3. Sample flavourful coffee and tea

Rwanda’s mountainous terrain is home to sprawling coffee and tea plantations. Gisenyi, near Lake Kivu, is known for its coffee production, while tea tours are centred around Gisoyu and Gisakura, near Nyungwe National Park.

Take a guided tour of the estates and learn more about the journey of these two aromatic beverages, from leaf to cup. But best of all is the chance to sip on never-ending cups of world-class coffee and tea while gazing out at the gently undulating rows of tea and coffee plantations

4. Witness the dance of the heroes

Accompanied by thumping drums and rhythmic chants, the Intore dance of Rwanda is a sensory experience and watching it is among the most memorable things to do in Rwanda. Men perform this warrior dance wearing traditional clothing and headgear, wielding spears in their hands.

Performed traditionally at festivals and celebrations, the dance allows you a wonderful peek into the country’s culture and customs.

5. Explore the capital city, Kigali

Bustling, vibrant and full of art and culture, Kigali is a window into Rwanda’s past and present. Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial centre, which takes you through the events that led to the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Shop for souvenirs at the colourful Kimironko Market.

Sign up for cooking and basket weaving classes at Nyamirambo Women’s Center, a wonderful way to interact with members of the local community. Gulp down glasses of fresh cow’s milk at the city’s milk bars and sample Rwandan cuisine at Nyamirambo.

6. Go on a safari in Akagera National Park and spot the Big 5

Rwanda immediately evokes images of gorillas and chimpanzees, but the country also has healthy populations of the Big Five. One of the best places to spot them is the Akagera National Park. Head out on safaris across the vast savannah and come upon lions, rhinos, elephants, impalas, and a dazzling variety of avifauna.

Go on guided nature walks to get a feel for the land, take a boat trip across Lake Ihema, and chance upon half-submerged hippos and crocodiles.

7. Spot rare and colourful avifauna in Rwanda

With more than 600 species of birds to spot, you can put your binoculars to good use in Rwanda. The country’s dense rainforests, lakes and wetlands provide the perfect environment for bird-watching. Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu are great spots for bird-watching, and a tour of these is one of the best things to do in Rwanda.

While you can spot an incredible variety of bird species throughout the year, the period from December to February welcomes migratory birds

8. Hike Rwanda’s volcanoes

Rwanda’s volcanoes, part of the Virunga range that stretches across multiple countries in East Africa, present incredible hiking opportunities. Embark on a day trek to Mount Bisoke, which has a crater lake on top or go on a two-day walk to the top of Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest volcano.

Hike across scenic trails, chance upon mountain gorillas and witness the most sublime sunsets. A trek to some of these summits is one of the most adventurous things to do in Rwanda.

9. Relax by the banks of Lake Kivu

Unwinding at one of the resorts near Lake Kivu is the perfect way to bring your Rwanda holiday to a memorable end.

Take a boat ride to nearby islands, kayak around the lake or simply watch the sun dip into the horizon. 

Tick gorilla tracking in Rwanda off your bucket list. It all starts with a call to one of our destination experts. Contact us today for a bespoke holiday to Rwanda.