5. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as one of Africa’s premier forest conservation areas, showcasing an incredible diversity of life, including 1,068 plant species, 322 bird species, and 75 types of mammals.

The park’s primary draw for many visitors is the opportunity to track chimpanzees. These primates, habituated to human presence by park rangers, offer a unique and more affordable alternative to gorilla trekking, while still providing a memorable wildlife experience.

Beyond chimpanzee tracking, Nyungwe offers the only canopy walk in East Africa. After a roughly 90-minute hike from the Uwinka Visitor Center, you’ll traverse a 91-meter-long suspension bridge suspended more than 50 meters above the rainforest. The breathtaking views of the treetops and distant mountains are truly exhilarating.

If heights aren’t your thing, you can explore one of the park’s 15 hiking trails for a thrilling adventure that stays closer to the ground.

6. Lake Kivu

After your outdoor adventures, unwind at Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake and a stunning emerald-green expanse stretching across 2,700 square kilometers. Surrounded by misty mountains, this serene oasis is perfect for relaxation.

Rubavu, a resort town on Lake Kivu’s northern shore, offers a lively waterfront, sandy beaches, and beautiful resorts like the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel. A few days in Rubavu will leave you rejuvenated.

For a closer connection to the landscape, consider a sunset kayak trip with Kingfisher Journeys. They offer stunning paddling adventures on Lake Kivu, where you can enjoy a unique experience with singing fishermen and breathtaking views.

7. Ethnographic Museum

Located about 130 kilometers south of Kigali in Huye, Rwanda’s Ethnographic Museum boasts one of Africa’s finest collections of ethnological and archaeological artifacts. Gifted by Belgium in 1989 to mark Rwanda’s 25th independence anniversary, the museum features seven galleries showcasing precolonial Rwandan life.

Explore a diverse range of woven baskets, traditional garments made from animal hides, ancient spears and bows, musical drums, and old farming tools. The museum also includes a replica royal home and live handicraft demonstrations.

8. Gorilla Guardians Village (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village)

Volcanoes National Park is not only a prime spot for gorilla trekking but also an excellent place to experience Rwandan culture at Gorilla Guardians Village. Managed by former poachers, this non-profit cultural village offers interactive experiences in traditional crafts and activities.

Visitors can learn basket weaving, carry baskets on their heads like Rwandan women, shoot arrows, and grind grains using traditional methods. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by intore dance recitals, where traditional dancers in straw wigs and skirts perform energetic routines to rhythmic drumming. Join in the dance and immerse yourself in the lively culture.

9. Explore Kigali City

Many travelers briefly visit Kigali before heading out for gorilla trekking, often missing out on the city’s rich culture, cuisine, and attractions. Consider spending a few days exploring Rwanda’s vibrant capital.

Start by shopping for bespoke clothing at Kimironko Market, Kigali’s largest and most energetic marketplace, where you’ll find a labyrinth of textiles and unique items.

For a dose of creativity, visit the Inema Arts Center, which features the work of up to 10 local artists. You can also explore contemporary Rwandan art at the Rwanda Art Museum, located in the former Presidential Palace, which also displays remnants of the 1994 presidential aircraft crash.

To recharge, enjoy a cup of Rwandan coffee at Question Coffee Cafe, known for its innovative blends and local ingredients, like tree tomato.

For dining, Le Panorama Restaurant at Hôtel des Mille Collines offers panoramic city views and a diverse menu, while Fusion Restaurant at The Retreat hotel provides a romantic outdoor dining experience with homemade pastas, flavorful starters, and fresh seafood.

10. Gishwati Mukura National Park

In late 2020, Rwanda introduced its fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura, preserving a rare Central African montane rainforest. Covering 34 square kilometers, this park features diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.

Visit Gishwati, the larger of the park’s two forests, where you can encounter golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and about 20 eastern chimpanzees. Join a guided tour to track these primates or explore the marked hiking trails. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s rich avian diversity, with over 230 bird species to observe.

11. Nyamata Genocide Memorial

The Nyamata Genocide Memorial offers a poignant insight into the Rwandan genocide. The site is a final resting place for over 40,000 victims, including around 10,000 who sought refuge in the church but were killed when Hutu militias breached the sanctuary.

Visitors can view the victims’ clothing and ID cards displayed on church pews and the grave of Tonia Locatelli, an Italian missionary who sought to raise awareness about the genocide. Though the visit can be emotionally intense, it provides a crucial reminder of the need for genocide prevention and is a moving tribute to those who suffered.

Choosing Rwanda Tours with Kenlink Tours

Choosing Rwanda Tours with Kenlink Tours guarantees an unforgettable experience in the heart of Africa. We specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that showcase Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife. From the iconic gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to exploring the vibrant capital, Kigali, our expert guides ensure a seamless and immersive journey. With a deep commitment to sustainable tourism, we offer unique experiences that benefit local communities and protect Rwanda’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural exploration, or relaxation, Kenlink Tours provides the expertise and passion to make your Rwandan adventure truly exceptional.