Rwanda as a tourist destination
Renowned as the "land of a thousand hills," Rwanda beckons with its captivating beauty and hospitable locals, providing travelers with unparalleled experiences in one of the world's most extraordinary destinations. This enchanting country is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting a rich tapestry of wildlife thriving amidst its volcanic landscapes, lush montane rainforests, and vast plains, promising unforgettable encounters with nature's wonders at every turn.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe has incredibly high wildlife diversity and endemism, making it a priority for conservation. In September 2023, this forest was inscribed as UNESCO Heritage Site, acknowledging its universal value and the need to protect it for the benefit of all humanity.
In this beautiful green forest – one of the oldest rainforests in Africa – rushing streams, sun-starved valleys, tree-filled mountains, dappled savannahs and extensive swamps create a home for myriad species.
Nyungwe is a wonderful option for visitors wanting to see some of Rwanda’s spectacular endemics, its 13 primate species, and of course, to experience a chimpanzee trek to view one of its semi-habituated troops. It is also a place of active adventure, with hiking and cycling trails, exciting Canopy Walkway, and the enchanting Ndambarare and Kamiranzovu waterfalls. Nyungwe is also a birder’s paradise with around 300 recorded species, 30 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift region.
Nyungwe offers the following activities
Chimpanzee tracking
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Three habituated chimpanzee groups exist in Mayebe, Cyamudongo and Gisovu and can be observed under the guidance of Nyungwe experienced trackers and guides who lead visitors through the forest to gain the best sightings possible.
Colobus Monkey Tracking
Nyungwe is home to an exceptional super group of more than 400 Black-and-white colobus monkeys. Successful tracking is possible at three sites; Uwinka, Gisakura and Gisovu.
Adventure trails and waterfall adventures
An extensive network of hiking trails ranging from easy to very difficult, traverse an array of different landscapes numerous waterfalls and plants and animal communities. Accompanied by experienced guides all along, explore the park on any of the 15 trails available from Gisakura or Uwinka and enjoy and live a true forest experience.
Birdwatching experiences
Nyungwe is considered as one of the most important areas for bird conservation in the region, home to over 310 bird species, with at least 31 endemics to the Albertine Rift. Some of Nyungwe’s iconic birds include the Red-collared Mountain babbler, Ruwenzori turaco, Dusky crimsonwing and Archer’s robin-chat. The park also has many other notable birds, including the Regal sunbird; the Great blue turaco; Grauer’s rush warbler; and the Red-throated alethe, to name a few which highlight Nyungwe’s significance as a biodiversity hotspot.
Night walk
The night walk is an opportunity to encounter Nyungwe’s nocturnal wildlife, the beauty of the forest at night, the sky, the sounds, and the exciting atmosphere of the forest by torchlight. During the walk, gust can spot different nocturnal species such as a flying squirrel, tree hyrax, bush babies, owls and others.
Community Based experiences
Community-based experiences are available outside of the park, in the villages of Banda and Gisakura. Discover traditional handcraft, blacksmith, tea tour and processing, pottery making, traditional dances or traditional brewing techniques.
Cyinzobe hike
Cyinzobe trail in Nyungwe National Park for a three-day adventure featuring stunning nature views and a beautiful Kamiranzovu waterfall. Two exclusive full-board campsites with wooden cabins are available along the 23km long Cyinzobe trail. These campsites offer a cozy retreat amidst nature, allowing hikers to rest and rejuvenate between days of hiking. Embarking on the Cyinzobe trail promises an unforgettable expedition through Nyungwe’s stunning landscapes.
Chimpanzee habituation experience
Guests have the opportunity to actively participate in tracking activities, gathering field data, studying the chimps' diet and daily range, identifying chimps by their tracks, and even analyzing chimp feces for further insight. As part of this extraordinary adventure, guests can observe chimps in their nests as they retire for the night (nesting) and reunite with them the following morning at the same spot (de-nesting), creating unforgettable memories and fostering a deeper connection with these incredible creatures.
Canopy walkway
The canopy walk is an exhilarating walk across a series of bridges reaching nearly 70m above the ground with a combined length of around 170m that offer a very unique vantage viewing point of the forest canopy and easily accessible through the Igishigishigi trail- a short and relatively easy trail in close proximity to the renovated Uwinka Visitor Center.
Zipline and rope courses
Accommodation in Nyungwe
There are various accommodation options available in and around Nyungwe National Park to suit the needs and preferences of different travelers. From luxury lodges like One and Only Nyungwe House, Mid-range option like Munazi Eco lodge to budget-friendly guesthouses like Gisakura Guesthouse and eco-friendly options like Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge, visitors can find a place to stay that aligns with their requirements. Whether seeking a luxurious retreat or a more affordable option, the accommodations near and within Nyungwe National Park provide comfortable lodging for an unforgettable experience in this remarkable natural reserve.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is not only a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas but also a haven for biodiversity. Its diverse range of montane ecosystems creates a rich tapestry of habitats, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species. The park's unique combination of forests, grasslands and heathlands contribute to its ecological significance and makes it a remarkable destination for nature lovers and conservationists.
Exploring the rainforest's intimate surroundings while tracking endangered mountain gorillas is one of the most distinct experiences you can have in the East Africa region. The park is alive with the calls of over 200 colorful bird species and the chattering of the rare golden monkey.
In addition to tracking the Mountain gorillas, visitors can also explore the ancient forest with intriguing folklore at Buhanga Eco-Park and can also venture into the Musanze Caves formed millions of years ago.
There is something for everyone, whether it's hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, or immersing oneself in local culture, Volcanoes National Park provides a memorable experience for all who visit.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park covers an area of 112,000 hectares in the east of Rwanda, on the border with Tanzania. It is named for the Akagera River that flows along its eastern boundary and feeds into a labyrinth of lakes. Rolling hills of Acacia bush with panoramic views across scattered grassland, patches of thick forest and a mosaic of swamp-fringed lakes along the meandering Akagera watercourse contribute to this park’s almost unrivalled scenic beauty.
As the only protected savannah environment in the country, Akagera is unique in Rwanda. Large herds of buffalo and impala, zebra and topi are commonly seen on the open plains, whilst smaller antelope such as oribi, klipspringer, bushbuck and reedbuck exist widely throughout the park. Elephant tend to stay around the lakes which are inhabited by large populations of hippo and crocodiles. Lions roam the northern plains, having grown in number from the seven introduced in 2015 to over 60 individuals that we have in the park today. The reintroduced black rhinos (2017) largely remain in the thickets in the south of the park, while the introduced population of white rhinos (2021) are in the southern and northern plains of Akagera. Baboons and vervet monkeys are commonplace, less so is the secretive blue monkey. Leopard, hyena and jackal are alsoresidents and may be seen on a night drive along with genet, serval,bushbabies, porcupine and other nocturnal wildlife. An important population of sitatunga lives in the papyrus swamps along with other rarities such as the shoebill and other papyrus endemic bird species. These are among the more than 480 bird species found in the park, which make Akagera a haven for bird enthusiasts. The park offers the following activities:
Boat trips
If you are looking for a variation on the usual safari experience, a boat trip on Lake Ihema will not disappoint. Drift along the forest-fringed lake edge, past huddles of hippo and basking crocodiles. For the serious birder a boat trip is a must. Trips are scheduled four times per day at7.30am, 9am, 3pm and 4.30pm. Non-scheduled, private, trips can also be arranged between 10.30am to 1.30pm for an hour.
Fishing
Lake Shakani is the site of sports fishing in the park; spend a relaxing day fishing off the lake shore and then cook your catch over an open fire at the campsite. Own equipment is required.
Behind the Scenes
For more insight into Akagera, including conservation developments within the park, take a ‘Behind-the-Scenes’ tour of the park headquarters and meet some of the people integral to the management of the park. This activity is open to anyone (with minimum numbers applying) but ideal for educational groups, or special interest travelers.
Night drive
A sunset departure for a guided night drive adventure is an ideal way to end your day. Night drives show a different side to the park and are your best chance of seeing the nocturnal wildlife, often the most sought-after sightings! Night drives are operated by the park’s safari vehicle which can take a maximum of 7 guests.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris have been introduced to Akagera, an exclusive walking safari in Akagera National Park, guided by experienced guides from Lowveld Trails Company from south Africa. The walking safari brings you close to the intricate details of nature, while losing you in the vastness of Akagera’s picturesque landscapes.
Walk the Line
Spend the morning in the shoes of a fence attendant who walk a section of the 120km fence line on a daily basis. This walk, starting at the park entrance, takes you 7km into the hills, following the fence on the outside of the park. The walk is approximately two hours and ends at the top of the ridge with spectacular views in all directions.
Community Cultural Experiences
In collaboration with the community and the park, the Community Freelance Guides have developed some cultural experiences to share with park guests. Visit a farm for milking and learn about the culture and traditions around cattle and milk in the Eastern province. Or visit a banana-beer maker, or honey cooperative and see how these products are made locally. Revenue is shared with the community members visited.
Accommodations
Ruzizi Tented Lodge
The Ruzizi Tented Lodge is a mid-range tented lodge tucked away in the riverine forest on the edge of Lake Ihema. This small, private lodge has nine en-suite tents and a central lounge-dining area, all accessible by wooden boardwalks. One tent can accommodate a family of four while other tents are either double or twin. Ruzizi has one luxury tree-top tent, built four meters high, overlooking Lake Ihema with an outdoor shower, king-sized bed and double hammock on the deck.
Level: 3-star
Karenge Bush Camp
This mid-range bush promises an authentic bush camp experience, complemented by a captivating mix of natural beauty and thrilling wildlife encounters. The camp is simple, serene, low impact and, located in Akagera's north. It offers great access to some of the best wildlife viewing in the park. Fully staffed and catered for, and with just 6 tents and a maximum of12 guests, the camp is a quiet retreat.
Level: 3-star
Akagera Game Lodge
Sitting high on a ridge with impressive views overlooking Lake Ihema, the Akagera Game Lodge can accommodate large groups and its facilities include a sizeable bar and dining area, conference rooms, as well as a swimming pool and tennis courts.
Level: 4-star
Magashi Camp
Perched like butterflies on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga, Magashi’s eight spacious tented suites welcome you to an intimate wilderness area, surrounded by one of the most serene landscapes imaginable - the ideal stage for exceptional safari adventures.
Level: 4-star
Camping
Four campsites offer basic facilities for overnight stays. Muyumbu and Shakani are in the park’s southern sector, Mutumba is more central and Mihindi is in the northern sector. Muyumbu sits high on a ridge overlooking Lake Ihema and Tanzania to the east. Shakani campsite is located on the edge of picturesque Lake Shakani, and Mutumba is the most remote site, located on the game-rich and scenic Mutumba Hills. This is the highest point in the park and evenings can be cool and breezy. Mihindi Campsite and Cafe’ is located near the banks of Lake Mihindi.
Gishwati Mukura National Park
Rwanda’s fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura is made up of two separate forests – the larger Gishwati and small Mukura, forming a total of 34 square kilometers plus a buffer zone.
The forests sit on the ridge which divides the Congo and Nile water catchment areas, along the incredibly biodiverse Albertine Rift in the west of the country. It is made up of 60 species of tree, including indigenous hardwoods and bamboo.
Gishwati is home to a group of 20 chimpanzees which live alongside golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s and Blue Monkeys. Birds are well represented too, 232 species have been seen at Gishwati and 163 at Mukura, among them Albertine Rift Endemic species and forest specialists.
Activities in the park started in 2019 and include a guided nature hike, guided chimp and monkey tracking, bird watching and a visit to the waterfalls.
Kigali City
Enjoy astounding views of the clean and green Kigali city on a guided tour while experiencing the history, culture, local and unique cuisine, vibrant night life, the country’s recovery process and development from a dark history. Explore the top Kigali’s must-see sights in a Kigali city tour with Dorylus Travel Adventures, such as Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, Kigali Car Free Zone, Nyamirambo, Nyandungu Eco-Park, the Umusambi Village, the Museum of the Campaign Against Genocide.
Lake Kivu
Part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Kivu in the west of Rwanda is surrounded by magnificent mountains and has deep emerald, green waters covering a surface area of 2,700 km2. It is Rwanda’s largest lake and the sixth largest in Africa.
Rubavu – previously known as Gisenyi – is a large town on the northern edge of Lake Kivu, an hour’s drive from Volcanoes National Park and the perfect place to relax after gorilla trekking. Once a colonial beach resort of note, Rubavu’s waterfront is lined with fading old mansions, hotels and trendy bars on the lakeshore, ideal for sundowner cocktails.
Karongi, halfway along the lake, is a popular beach resort with hillsides covered in pines and eucalyptus serve as a backdrop to the sparkling lake. At dawn and dusk, the sound of local fisherman singing carries across the water as they paddle in unison.
From Rubavu in the north, the Congo Nile Trail extends 227 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes all the way to Rusizi in the south of Lake Kivu. The trail gently curves back and forth as it weaves through hills and mountains beside the lake with eucalyptus trees lining the road and every inch of the hills seemingly terraced with bananas.
For adventurous travelers, an exciting way to explore Rwanda is a kayaking tour on Lake Kivu, or mountain biking or hiking one of the 6 off-the-beaten path stages of the spectacular Congo Nile Trail.
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