Why is Rwanda called land of a thousand hills? Rwanda is a captivating and compact country, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” due to its scenic rolling hills and mountainous terrain. Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda offers breathtaking landscapes that enchant visitors from all over the world. The country is especially known for its lush bamboo forests and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, located in the northwest, which are home to the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat is one of Rwanda’s most unforgettable experiences.

One of the country’s most stunning natural features is Lake Kivu, which boasts some of the finest inland beaches in East Africa. The lake offers a perfect place to relax, take boat trips, or enjoy water sports, all with the backdrop of beautiful hills.

Another gem is Nyungwe Forest National Park, a vast montane rainforest teeming with biodiversity. The park is a sanctuary for various primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, as well as hundreds of bird species. Walking across the park’s iconic canopy walkway is a thrilling way to experience the forest from above.

Rwanda’s vibrant capital city, Kigali, is not only the gateway to the country but also a symbol of resilience and growth. Despite the devastating 1994 genocide, Rwanda has made remarkable strides in healing and rebuilding, emerging as one of the cleanest, safest, and most forward-looking nations in Africa.

Today, tourism plays a vital role in Rwanda’s economy, supporting conservation efforts and community development. With its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming people, Rwanda is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and meaningful experience in Africa.

Major Attractions and Activities to do in Rwanda

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers a wide range of exciting and memorable activities for travelers seeking adventure, nature, culture, and relaxation. From lush national parks and volcanic mountains to serene lakes and vibrant cities, Rwanda is packed with experiences for every kind of visitor. Here are some of the major activities to enjoy while exploring this beautiful country:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
The highlight of any trip to Rwanda is the chance to trek and observe the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park is home to several gorilla families, and visitors can spend a magical hour watching these gentle giants, guided by experienced trackers and rangers.

2. Chimpanzee and Primate Tracking in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a biodiversity hotspot. It’s perfect for tracking chimpanzees and other primates such as colobus monkeys. The park also offers a canopy walk that gives visitors breathtaking views of the forest from above.

3. Game Viewing in Akagera National Park
For classic savannah wildlife encounters, Akagera National Park is ideal. It’s Rwanda’s only Big Five park, featuring elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and birdwatching with over 500 bird species recorded.

4. Cultural Experiences and Community Visits
Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage can be explored through traditional dance performances, crafts workshops, and village visits. Engaging with local communities offers a deeper understanding of Rwandan traditions, values, and day-to-day life.

5. Genocide Memorial Visits
A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial provides important historical insight into the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. It’s a deeply moving but essential experience that helps visitors appreciate Rwanda’s journey of healing and reconciliation.

6. Relaxation on Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a peaceful retreat with scenic views, charming beaches, and water activities like kayaking, boat rides, and swimming. Towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye along the lakeshore offer comfortable lodges and cultural interactions.

7. City Tour of Kigali
Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is modern, clean, and full of energy. A city tour includes visits to markets, art galleries, coffee shops, and historical sites.

How Much is Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers a unique opportunity to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The cost of this experience varies based on residency status:​

• Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per person.

• Foreign Residents in Rwanda: $500 per person.

• African Citizens and Residents: $500 per person.

• Rwandan and East African Citizens: $200 per person. ​

These permit fees include park entry, a guided trek, and one hour with a gorilla family. It’s essential to book permits well in advance due to limited daily availability.

In addition to permit costs, travelers should budget for accommodation, transportation, meals, and optional activities. Depending on preferences, a 2-3 day gorilla trekking package can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per person. This range accounts for varying levels of comfort and inclusions. 

For those seeking a comprehensive experience, combining gorilla trekking with visits to other attractions like Akagera National Park or Nyungwe Forest can enhance the journey. Some tour operators offer discounted packages when multiple parks are included. ​

Engaging a reputable tour operator like Kenlink Tours can streamline the planning process, ensuring a memorable and well-organized adventure in Rwanda.

Why is Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permit Expensive?

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking permit is considered expensive at $1,500 per person, primarily due to the country’s strong emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism. The high cost is designed to limit the number of visitors, ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas and their natural habitat. This controlled access helps preserve the health and well-being of these endangered species.

A significant portion of the permit fee directly supports conservation efforts, including anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, and research programs. Additionally, 10% of the revenue is shared with local communities living near Volcanoes National Park. This promotes development through schools, clinics, and clean water projects, which helps foster positive human-wildlife relationships and reduce conflicts.

Rwanda also invests heavily in offering a premium, high-end experience, including well-maintained trails, professional guides, and strong safety measures. The high cost reflects not only conservation priorities but also the exceptional quality of the trekking experience.

Can i Combine Uganda and Rwanda? How long do i need?

Yes, you can absolutely combine Uganda and Rwanda in one safari trip! These two East African countries complement each other beautifully and are conveniently close, with easy border crossings such as Cyanika and Katuna. Combining them allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—gorilla trekking in either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), wildlife viewing in Uganda’s top parks, and cultural experiences in both countries.

The amount of time you’ll need depends on what you want to see and do. However, a well-rounded Uganda-Rwanda combined safari typically takes 7 to 12 days. A shorter 7-day trip can focus on gorillas, golden monkeys, and a few cultural visits. A longer 10 to 12-day itinerary can include chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, game drives in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Parks, boat safaris, and cultural immersion in both countries.

Both Uganda and Rwanda offer visa-on-arrival or an East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows you to move freely between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days.

To plan your combined safari, reach out to Kenlink Tours:
📧 Email: info@kenlinktours.com
📞 Phone: +256-789-210-067 / +256-200-955-001

Can i trek Gorillas in Uganda from Rwanda?

Yes, it is possible to trek gorillas in Uganda from Rwanda, and many travelers do so due to the close proximity of the two countries. The Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, famous for its mountain gorillas, is located near the border with Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The distance between the two parks is around 3 to 4 hours by road, making it relatively easy to cross between the countries.

Many tourists combine gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda, often starting in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and then traveling to Uganda for a second trek. The border crossings are straightforward, with travelers needing to show their passport and visa (if required).

If you are based in Rwanda and want to trek gorillas in Uganda, a day trip is feasible, but it’s advisable to allocate at least 2 to 3 days for the experience to ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.

For a tailored experience, contact Kenlink Tours to book your gorilla trekking safari in both Uganda and Rwanda: 📧 Email: info@kenlinktours.com
📞 Phone: +256-789-210-067 / +256-200-955-001.