From lush forests to serene lakes and majestic mountains, there is much to explore and discover. Whether you choose a guided holiday or self-drive safari, the country has a lot on your whilst to count. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Rwanda.
Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla Treks and Adventure Tours
Located in the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense forests to see these incredible creatures up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Volcanoes National Park is a renowned natural attraction in Rwanda drawing thousands of visitors around the world to take a glimpse of what it hosts and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here’s what you can expect to experience in Volcanoes National Park.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated mountain gorilla families. Trekking through the dense forests to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. You’ll have the opportunity to observe their behavior, learn about their conservation, and spend a precious hour in their presence. Safaris here are conducted on daily basis and permits are based on available Gorilla families.
Golden Monkey Tracking: Apart from mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to a population of golden monkeys. Troops range from 15 to 35 individuals in a given family and its here in Rwanda where much of the conservation of these creatures take place. Tracking these playful and rare primates through the bamboo forests is a unique and rewarding experience.
Scenic Hiking Trails: The park offers various hiking trails that take you through picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and stunning viewpoints. The trails cater to different fitness levels and interests, allowing you to explore the park’s beauty at your own pace. Volcanic hikes here for adventure seekers offers the opportunity to climb one of the volcanoes within the Virunga Mountain range. Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi are popular choices, offering challenging yet rewarding experiences and breathtaking views from their summits.
Bird Watching: Volcanoes National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 180 bird species recorded. You can spot various endemic and migratory bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, African paradise flycatcher, and the beautiful Rwenzori double-collared sunbird.
Musanze Caves: These underground caves are a hidden gem in Rwanda. Visitors can explore the dark tunnels and marvel at the stunning rock formations. Guided tours offer insights into the history and geology of the caves. It’s important to note that gorilla trekking and other activities in Volcanoes National Park require permits, which should be obtained in advance. These permits contribute to conservation efforts and ensure the protection of the park’s wildlife and habitats.
Lake Kivu Leisure Travel
This beautiful freshwater lake is nestled between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides, kayaking, and swimming in its crystal-clear waters. The lake also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Travelling around Lake Kivu in Rwanda is a wonderful way to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the region. Here are some tips and highlights for your journey:
Gisenyi – Start your journey in Gisenyi, a charming lakeside town located on the northern shores of Lake Kivu. Enjoy the drive along the loop of Lake Kivu where you can have a self-drive Tour, explore the beautiful beaches, take a boat ride on the lake, or visit the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Rubavu Hot Springs: Just a short drive from Gisenyi, you’ll find the Rubavu Hot Springs. These natural thermal springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Take a dip in the warm waters and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Kibuye – Continue your journey south to Kibuye, another picturesque town on the shores of Lake Kivu. Kibuye is known for its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. Take a boat ride to explore the nearby islands, visit the Genocide Memorial, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Napoleon Island – Located near Kibuye, Napoleon Island is a small volcanic island that offers a unique experience. Take a boat trip to the island and hike to the top for panoramic views of Lake Kivu. You can also visit the colony of fruit bats that inhabit the island.
Nyamirundi Island: Nyamirundi Island is another interesting stop on your journey around Lake Kivu. This small island is known for its coffee plantations, and you can learn about the coffee-making process and sample some delicious Rwandan coffee.
Lake Kivu Beaches: Throughout your journey, you’ll find several beautiful beaches along the shores of Lake Kivu. Take some time to relax, swim, or enjoy water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Some popular beaches include Karongi Beach in Kibuye and Paradis Malahide in Gisenyi.
Travelling around Lake Kivu allows you to experience the natural beauty of the lake, explore charming towns, and engage with the local culture. Don’t forget to capture the stunning sunsets over the lake, as they are truly breathtaking.
Nyungwe Forest National Park.
This ancient rainforest is one of the oldest in Africa and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and over 300 bird species. Visitors can go on guided hikes, and canopy walks, and even experience a thrilling zipline adventure through the forest. A safari to Nyungwe Forest is a wonderful opportunity to explore one of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in Rwanda. Located in the southwestern part of the country, Nyungwe Forest is a protected area known for its lush rainforest, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Here is an outline of what you can expect on a safari to Nyungwe Forest: A safari in Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda offers a different experience compared to the savannah ecosystems found in other parks. As one of the oldest and most diverse rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
1. Chimpanzee Trekking: Nyungwe National Park is renowned for its population of wild chimpanzees. Akagera Safaris organizes guided chimpanzee trekking experiences, where visitors can hike through the lush forest to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The chance to see chimpanzees up close and learn about their behavior is a truly memorable experience.
2. Canopy Walk: One of the highlights of visiting Nyungwe National Park is the opportunity to go on a canopy walk. Akagera Safaris offers guided tours that take you high above the forest floor, allowing you to walk along suspended bridges and platforms amidst the treetops. This thrilling activity offers a unique perspective of the forest and its inhabitants.
3. Birding Tours; Nyungwe National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 300 bird species recorded within its pristine forests. Akagera Safaris can arrange bird-watching tours with experienced guides who can help you spot and identify a wide variety of colourful and rare birds. The park’s avian diversity makes this a must-do activity for bird lovers.
4. Waterfall Hikes: Nyungwe National Park is home to several stunning waterfalls, and Akagera Safaris can organize hikes to these natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks through the forest to reach picturesque cascades, where they can relax and take in the breathtaking views.
Whether you’re interested in encountering chimpanzees, exploring the treetops, bird watching, or immersing yourself in the rainforest’s beauty, Nyungwe National Park caters for various interests and preferences.
Akagera National Park – Wildlife Safaris
Located in eastern Rwanda, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a home to elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Game drives and boat safaris on Lake Ihema provide excellent opportunities to spot these animals in their natural habitat. Akagera Safaris in Rwanda Akagera Safaris in Rwanda offers a unique wildlife experience in the heart of the African country. The park offers range of activities and tours for visitors to explore the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
One of the main highlights of Akagera Safaris is the opportunity to go on game drives. With knowledgeable guides, visitors can venture into the park’s expansive savannahs and woodlands to spot a variety of animals including the big five. The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
In addition to game drives, Akagera Safaris offers boat trips on Lake Ihema. Visitors can cruise along the lake’s tranquil waters while observing hippos, crocodiles, and a multitude of bird species. These boat trips provide a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife and scenery.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Akagera Safaris also offers walking safaris. Led by experienced guides, visitors can explore the park on foot, learning about the smaller creatures, plant life, and the park’s conservation efforts. This activity allows for a closer encounter with nature and a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.
Akagera Safaris also offers specialized tours, such as photography safaris and cultural tours. The photography safaris are designed for photographers of all levels, providing guidance on capturing the park’s stunning wildlife and landscapes. Cultural tours, on the other hand, allow visitors to learn about the local communities living around the park, their traditions, and their role in conservation.
Safaris in Akagera are exciting and educational experiences for travelers seeking to explore the beauty and wildlife. With their knowledgeable guides and commitment to conservation, visitors can have a memorable and responsible safari experience in Rwanda.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
This newly established park is a biodiversity hotspot. It features lush forests, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and several bird species. Guided hikes and nature walks allow visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty. Gishwati Mukura National Park is another beautiful national park in Rwanda. Located in the western part of the country, it is a protected area that is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Although smaller in size compared to other national parks in Rwanda, Gishwati Mukura offers unique experiences for nature lovers and those interested in conservation.
– Forest and Nature Walks; Gishwati Mukura National Park is covered in lush, montane rainforest, making it a perfect destination for nature walks. Guided walks in the park allow visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna, including various species of monkeys, birds, and plants. Walking through the forest is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of the park.
– Primate Tracking: Gishwati Mukura is home to several primate species, including the endangered golden monkeys. Guided primate tracking tours can be arranged, providing the opportunity to observe these unique and beautiful animals in their natural habitat. Other primate species found in the park include colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.
– Birding; The forest has over 60 bird species recorded in Gishwati Mukura National Park, bird enthusiasts can enjoy spotting a variety of colorful and rare birds. Some notable bird species found in the park include the Rwenzori turaco, red-throated alethe, and Grauer’s swamp warbler.
– Community Tours: Gishwati Mukura National Park is unique in that it has a strong focus on community-based conservation and sustainable tourism. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with the local communities surrounding the park, learn about their conservation efforts, and even participate in community development projects. This offers a chance to understand the vital role local communities play in preserving the park’s biodiversity. Gishwati Mukura National Park provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the larger national parks in Rwanda. However, its beauty, biodiversity, and community-focused conservation efforts make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a unique and immersive nature experience.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, hiking, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of Rwanda’s landscapes, there is something for everyone to explore and appreciate in this stunning country.
