Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda’s stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world. It is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains. Travellers come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the magnificent gorillas, yet there is so much more to see and experience.

Volcanoes National Park offers encounters with the rare mountain gorillas, while Lake Kivu’s serenity and scenic beauty provide a tranquil escape. The traditional rituals of Rwandans, exemplified in the Intore dancers, reflect the nation’s cultural revival.

The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These drier periods see ideal trekking conditions for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees with little to no mud especially on steep paths. Although Rwanda features several seasons which should be considered when planning a safari here, the weather is fairly temperate and favours travel all year round due to its compact size, proximity to the equator and high altitude.

Rwandan cuisine is a unique blend of African, French, and Indian influences. Traditional Rwandan dishes are typically made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and are often quite flavourful. While these dishes can be delicious, they can also be high in fat and calories. Enjoy traditional dishes like Isombe, Ibihaza, Ugali and Ibirayi.

Shopping is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Rwanda. The travellers can buy various local handmade varieties of craft wares and basketwork as these make excellent buys. One can also buy different types of household items, ceramic work items, ivory items, wood-carved articles and an exquisite range of paintings by local artists.

Rwanda has four official languages: Kinyarwanda, French, English and Swahili. Kinyarwanda is the national language and spoken almost universally, French is widely spoken as the former colonial language. English became an additional official language in 2008 and Swahili in 2017.

1. KIGALI

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is a beautiful and vibrant destination full of great attractions and activities for travellers. Located in the center of Rwanda, it offers lush hills, stunning views, and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The city is best known for its striking scenery and vibrant culture, and is a great place to explore the country’s history and culture. The vibrant city also offers a variety of activities for visitors, from exploring the nightlife and shopping at the local markets, to hiking trails and visiting the gorilla sanctuary. Kigali is also home to some of Rwanda’s best restaurants and bars, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Places to visit in Kigali: Genocide Memorial, Nyamata Church, Presidential Palace, Kigali City Tower, National Museum of Rwanda

2. KIBUYE

Kibuye, a beautiful lakeside town in the western part of Rwanda, is a great destination for travellers looking to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery. Located on the shores of Lake Kivu, the town is a popular tourist spot offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surrounding countryside. Visitors will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained, from exploring the local markets and trying out traditional Rwandan cuisine, to taking part in water sports or fishing on the lake.

Places to visit in Kibuye: Ancient Churches of Muhazi and Kibumba, Islands of Cyohoha and Cyamunara, Kibuye Cultural Museum, Parc National des Volcans

3. NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in south-western Rwanda, near the borders of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the largest montane rainforest in the region and is one of the most biologically diverse parks in Africa. The park is a prime destination for eco-tourism and offers a range of activities to visitors, including hiking, camping, bird watching, and chimpanzee tracking.

The main reason to visit Nyungwe Forest is its abundant wildlife. It is home to more than 200 species of birds, 25 species of primates, and over 1,000 species of plants.

One of the highlights of a visit to Nyungwe is the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge that allows visitors to explore the canopy of the forest. Other attractions include the Gisakura Tea Estate, the Uwinka Visitor Centre, and the Igishigishigi Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the rainforest.

4. AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK

Akagera National Park is located in the eastern part of Rwanda and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. It is the only national park in Rwanda and is known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

It is home to many rare and endangered species, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. The park has a wide range of activities to offer for travellers, including game drives, safaris, boat tours, fishing, and bird watching. The highlight of the park is its lush and unspoiled landscapes, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and plains. Visitors can also take part in a guided nature walk. The park is also home to some of Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife, such as the elephants, lions, and rhinos.

5. RUBAVU

Rubavu, Rwanda is a stunningly beautiful destination located in the western part of the country. It is known for its breathtaking views of the volcanoes, lush green hills, and a vibrant culture. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rwanda.

The main reason to visit Rubavu is to experience the breathtaking views of the volcanoes and lush green hills. The place is known for its beautiful lakes, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife. There are a variety of activities to do in Rubavu such as bird watching, hiking, camping, and safari tours. There are also activities like mountain biking, canoeing, and water sports.

Places to visit in Rubavu: Nyiragongo Volcano, Lake Kivu, Rubavu National Park, Twin Lakes

6. NYANZA

Nyanza, Rwanda is a small city in the Southern Province of the country. The city is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Located at the base of the Virunga Mountains, Nyanza is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the African bush.

The city also offers many outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and game drives. Tourists can also enjoy the local markets, art galleries and the numerous festivals and events held throughout the year.

Key attractions in Nyanza include the Royal Palace of Nyanza, the National Museum of Rwanda, the Genocide Memorial, Akagera National Park, the local markets.

7. BUTARE

Butare, a city in the Southern Province of Rwanda, is a great place to visit for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife. It is located at the foothills of Mount Kigali, the highest peak in the country, and is known for its vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and historical sites.

The city is home to National University of Rwanda, which makes it a major academic hub. Butare is also known for its lush green surroundings, making it an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll. The city’s market is a great attraction for visitors, offering a variety of fresh produce from local farmers.

Places to visit in Butare: King’s Palace, Nyabisindu Dam, National University and Museum of Rwanda

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