RWANDA

Explore The Land Of A Thousand Hills

Gorillas, green highlands, rainforest and savannah within easy reach.

Rwanda packs a surprising amount into a small country. The landscape rises and falls through green hills, volcanic mountains, rainforest and savannah, making it possible to move between very different experiences in a matter of hours rather than days. Kigali is a natural starting point: clean, compact and easy to connect from, with museums, restaurants, art spaces and a growing hospitality scene.

The country is best known for mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, but a complete Rwanda journey can also include chimpanzees and canopy walks in Nyungwe, big-game safaris in Akagera, cycling or hiking along Lake Kivu, cultural heritage and relaxed time in lakeside towns. It is especially suited to travellers who want high-impact experiences without an overly complicated route.

Meet mountain gorillas

Volcanoes National Park protects Rwanda’s side of the Virunga Massif and is the country’s signature wildlife destination. Guided gorilla treks climb through bamboo and montane forest to habituated families, followed by a carefully managed observation period. The park also supports golden monkey tracking and several volcano hikes, so travellers can build more than one active day into the area.

Walk the rainforest in Nyungwe

Nyungwe National Park protects one of the region’s important montane rainforests. Chimpanzee tracking is a headline experience, but the park also offers forest walks, birding and a canopy walkway suspended above the trees. The drive to Nyungwe passes through Rwanda’s southern and western landscapes, making the journey part of the experience rather than just a transfer.

Explore Rwanda Tours

Experience Kigali

Kigali deserves more than a quick overnight. Visitors can explore contemporary art, local markets, cafés and neighbourhoods, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides essential historical context for understanding modern Rwanda. The city is also one of the easiest places to enjoy Rwanda’s food and creative culture.

Discover Rwanda's Unique Culture

Huye is an important cultural stop and home to the Ethnographic Museum. Nearby royal heritage sites, traditional arts and community experiences help tell a broader story of Rwanda beyond its wildlife. This section fits naturally on the road between Kigali and Nyungwe.

Best Times to Visit

Rwanda can be visited throughout the year, but drier periods are generally easier for trekking, game drives, and road travel.

June – Mid-September: Main dry season with generally easier roads and trails, ideal for gorilla trekking, hiking, Akagera game drives, and multi-region circuits.

Mid-December – Mid-February: A shorter drier spell in many areas, ideal for primate trekking, city travel, and mixed itineraries.

Mid-February – May: A longer rainy season with lush forests and muddier trails, ideal for green scenery, photography, and travelers who do not mind rain.

Mid-September – Mid-December: A second rainy season, ideal for quieter travel, lush landscapes, and flexible itineraries.

Do I need a visa to visit Rwanda?

Visa rules depend on nationality, but Rwanda allows many travellers to obtain a visa on arrival, while others benefit from visa-waiver arrangements. Visas can also be applied for online or through a Rwandan diplomatic mission. Travellers should confirm the latest requirement for their passport before departure.

Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

Rwanda has an established tourism industry and popular visitor routes are well travelled. Visitors should still follow current official travel advice, particularly when travelling near international borders, and use reputable guides and operators.

What currency is used in Rwanda?

The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and established tourism businesses, but cash is useful in smaller towns, markets and local establishments.

What should I pack for Rwanda?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, a rain jacket and warmer layers for higher-altitude areas. Long trousers and long sleeves are useful for forest activities. Sun protection and insect repellent are also recommended.