Best Places To Visit In Rwanda: From Cityscapes To Wilderness

Are you wondering about the best places to visit in Rwanda and what makes this country so special? Look no further as we take you on a captivating journey through some of the most beautiful and famous destinations in Rwanda. 

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Rwanda by visiting museums and exploring its majestic mountains. Traverse trails wind through montane forests and set out on adventurous treks to encounter playful chimpanzees and majestic gorillas.

Regardless of whether you intend to remain there for a brief visit or are anxious to set off on a tour that explores the magnificence of several national parks, planning your must-see list will allow you to fully embrace Rwanda's natural and cultural splendors.

Is Rwanda worth visiting?

Rwanda, known as the "land of a thousand hills," is a country that has undergone a remarkable transformation after a troubled past. Over the past two decades since the genocide, Rwanda has emerged as Africa's success story, making significant strides in cleanliness, peace, and prosperity, reclaiming its position as a cherished natural wonder. Travelers seeking picturesque landscapes, captivating wildlife, and lush greenery will find Rwanda a truly delightful destination, with a myriad of beautiful travel spots, including its renowned national parks.

A visit to Rwanda promises a rich cultural experience along with its popular tourist attractions. There are plenty of things to do in Rwanda to ensure a fulfilling trip. A Rwanda Safari, for instance, offers the opportunity to explore captivating attractions and visit places of great interest.

8 Top-Rated Places To Visit In Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park

What is Rwanda famous for? The answer is definitely Volcanoes National Park.

Volcanoes National Park stands out as the most notable and well-loved national park in Rwanda, promising an enchanting and unforgettable journey filled with fascination, natural beauty, adventure, and cherished moments.

Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Virunga Mountains, the park's scenery is a captivating blend of diverse ecosystems, ranging from montane forests and open grasslands to picturesque swamps.

Stepping through the verdant landscape, which is home to lowland gorillas, as the sun peeps through a bamboo canopy will let you take in the smells and sounds of your environment and make for a genuinely unique experience.

Volcanoes National Park's scenery is a captivating blend of diverse ecosystems

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a vital conservation area in Africa, boasting an impressive variety of biodiversity, with 1,068 plant species, 322 bird species, and 75 mammal species.

Many visitors are drawn to this rainforest to embark on chimpanzee tracking adventures facilitated by park rangers, who have habituated the primates to human presence. This memorable encounter with chimpanzees comes at a fraction of the cost of gorilla trekking but is equally memorable.

Beyond primate encounters, Nyungwe offers more attractions. It is home to East Africa's sole canopy walk, accessible after a 90-minute hike from the Uwinka Visitor Center. This thrilling experience involves walking across a 91-meter-long suspension bridge, hovering more than 50 meters above the lush rainforest, providing dizzying views of treetops and distant mountains.

Kigali

The city of Kigali has made a complete 180-degree turn from the dreadful days of the Rwandan genocide.

Where once the streets were plagued by marauding gangs and death patrols, today they bustle with life, featuring vibrant markets and aromatic spice-filled street stalls.

The previously ramshackle neighborhoods now exude the energy of daily activities, and the emergence of gleaming steel towers on the horizon is only another indication of the influx of foreign investment in this region.

Apart from these landmarks, visitors can explore Rwandan handicrafts in bustling bazaars and unwind in lively nightclubs with cold beverages in hand.

Read more: A Detailed Kigali Travel Guide For Adventure Enthusiasts

Kigali is one of the best places to visit in Rwanda

Ruhengeri

Visitors to the northern town of Ruhengeri are compelled to look up, where the towering Virunga Mountains rise to the horizon and where enormous animals like mountain gorillas roam the lush forests.

In fact, Volcanoes National Park and other nearby natural attractions are pretty much the main draws in this area, as evidenced by the abundance of safari outfitters and tour operators who provide gorilla-stalking expeditions.

However, Ruhengeri has its own charm and allure. The town boasts pleasant guesthouses, vibrant beer bars, and stunning views that delight visitors from every corner. Despite being a gateway to the renowned national park, Ruhengeri has its own appeal and experiences to offer those who choose to explore it.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, situated on the boundary between Congo and Rwanda and part of the Albertine Rift, is among the world's deepest lakes.

Notably absent of hippos and crocodiles, the alluring waters of Lake Kivu cover an impressive expanse, extending 55 miles in length and 30 miles in width, providing a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to unwind after a day of exploring Rwanda's forests and mountains.

Along the shoreline, local communities reside, extending warm greetings to guests as they engage in fishing and leisurely activities under the pleasant Rwandan sun.

Lake Kivu, situated on the boundary between Congo and Rwanda, is among the world's deepest lakes

Akagera National Park

Without a game drive, an African vacation would be incomplete. Within two and a half hours of Kigali, visitors can satisfy their desire to go on safari at Akagera National Park.

The park's vast 1,200 square kilometers of land directly border Tanzania, creating an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife, including herds of giraffes, antelopes, jackals, and more.

Also, the environs are stunning, with the Kagera River's meanders giving way to the glittering Lake Shakani, surrounded by abundant papyrus swamps and protected birding areas, providing an appealing destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Nyanza

As one of the last capitals of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Rwanda, this southern region of the country holds deep historical and traditional significance.

Visitors can delve into the stories of the nation's former leaders, gain insights into the poignant and stirring events of the Rwandan Genocide, and explore the museum collections housed within the old courtrooms.

Nyanza is also proud to host the esteemed Rwesero Art Museum, renowned for its prestige and richness, making it a cultural gem in Rwanda.

Nyanza is one of the last capitals of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Rwanda

Gishwati Mukura National Park

Gishwati Mukura National Park is a natural gem among places to visit in Rwanda.

Rwanda introduced its fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura, in late 2020, offering yet another captivating natural attraction for tourists to explore. Covering 34 square kilometers, this national park is dedicated to conserving one of the last remaining Central African montane rainforests.

The park organizes guided chimp and monkey tracking tours, providing the best opportunity to observe these feisty creatures up close. For nature enthusiasts, guided hikes along three marked trails allow you to immerse yourself in the forest's beauty. Don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars to catch glimpses of the more than 230 bird species that call the forest home. Gishwati Mukura National Park promises a unique and unforgettable experience amidst its rich biodiversity.

Best Time To Visit These Beautiful Places In Rwanda

The best time to visit these beautiful places in Rwanda is during the dry season, which spans from June to September and December to February. This period offers sunny and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and trekking. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city of Kigali, trekking through the lush forests of Nyungwe, or embarking on a memorable gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, the dry season promises an unforgettable and enriching experience in Rwanda.

You can read more about finding the best time to visit Rwanda for an unforgettable travel experience.

In conclusion, Rwanda is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, encompassing vibrant city life and pristine wilderness. With its famous gorilla encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Rwanda stands as a destination worth visiting for every traveler seeking beauty, adventure, and a connection to the soul of Africa.

If you're eager to embark on this enchanting journey, don't forget to apply for a Rwanda eVisa through our user-friendly website: Rwanda Immigration Services Secure your travel permit and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty, adventure, and soul of Africa that Rwanda has to offer. Your unforgettable Rwandan experience awaits, so start planning your trip today!