Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a country of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. While it’s renowned for its iconic mountain gorillas, there’s much more to explore beyond these majestic creatures. From ancient rain forests to bustling cities, Rwanda offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
In this guide, we’ll delve into 10 captivating things to do in Rwanda besides visiting mountain gorillas, providing insights into the country’s fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or culinary explorer, Rwanda has something extraordinary to offer every visitor. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that await in this enchanting East African nation.
Sure, Rwanda offers a diverse range of experiences beyond its famous mountain gorilla encounters. Here are 10 things to do in Rwanda:
Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a vast protected area in southwestern Rwanda, renowned for its ancient rainforest and rich biodiversity. The park offers a variety of activities such as guided nature walks, canopy walks along suspension bridges high above the forest floor, and chimpanzee tracking. With over 1,000 plant species and 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, Nyungwe Forest provides an immersive experience in Rwanda’s natural heritage.
Visit Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah park, located in the northeast of the country along the border with Tanzania. This diverse ecosystem is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, guided walks, and camping, all while admiring the stunning landscapes of rolling hills, savannah plains, and lakeshores.
Experience Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, is a breathtaking destination offering a range of activities for visitors. From the bustling lakeside towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu, travellers can embark on boat trips to explore the lake’s islands, swim in its clear waters, kayak along its shores, or simply relax on its sandy beaches. Lake Kivu also provides opportunities for fishing, water sports, and cultural encounters with local communities.
Learn about Rwandan History and Culture
Rwanda’s tragic history and vibrant culture are deeply intertwined, and visitors have the opportunity to learn about both through various educational and cultural experiences. The Kigali Genocide Memorial offers insight into the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi through exhibits, testimonies, and educational programs. Meanwhile, cultural villages like the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village provide immersive experiences in Rwandan traditions, including dance performances, craft demonstrations, and interactions with local communities.
Discover Rwanda’s Capital, Kigali
As Rwanda’s dynamic capital city, Kigali is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and attractions waiting to be explored. Visitors can wander through vibrant neighbourhoods, visit bustling markets like Kimironko Market, and explore cultural landmarks such as the Kigali Art Center, Inema Arts Center, and Ivuka Arts Studio. Kigali also boasts a burgeoning culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls serving traditional Rwandan dishes and international cuisine.
Hike to the Top of Mount Bisoke
Mount Bisoke is an extinct volcano located in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke is a challenging yet rewarding adventure, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a crater lake at the summit. Along the way, hikers may encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Experience Rwandan Cuisine
Rwandan cuisine reflects the country’s diverse landscapes, agricultural traditions, and cultural influences, resulting in a rich tapestry of flavors and ingredients. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as brochettes (skewered meat), ugali (maize porridge), and Rwandan tea at local restaurants, markets, and street food stalls. Food enthusiasts can also participate in cooking classes, food tours, and culinary experiences to learn more about Rwandan gastronomy and its significance in local culture.
Take a Coffee Tour
Rwanda is renowned for its high-quality coffee, which is grown in the country’s fertile highlands and exported to markets around the world. Visitors can take guided tours of coffee plantations in regions like the Rwanda Highlands and Lake Kivu, where they can learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup. Coffee tours often include demonstrations of coffee farming, harvesting, processing, and roasting, as well as opportunities to taste different varieties of Rwandan coffee and purchase beans to take home as souvenirs.
Relax in Hot Springs
Rwanda is home to several natural hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties and attract visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Popular hot spring destinations include the volcanic region of Musanze, where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes. Many hot spring sites also offer amenities such as spa treatments, picnic areas, and hiking trails, making them ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.
Attend Cultural Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Rwanda hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events that celebrate the country’s heritage, traditions, and artistic talents. One of the most notable events is the Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, which takes place annually in Volcanoes National Park and commemorates the naming of newborn mountain gorillas. Other cultural festivals include Umuganura, the national harvest festival, which celebrates Rwanda’s agricultural heritage through music, dance, food, and cultural performances. Additionally, visitors can attend music concerts, art exhibitions, film festivals, and other cultural events held in cities like Kigali, Butare, and Musanze, providing opportunities to engage with local communities and immerse themselves in Rwandan culture.
In conclusion, Rwanda offers a plethora of captivating experiences beyond the renowned mountain gorilla encounters. From exploring ancient rain forests and savannahs to delving into the country’s rich history and culture, there’s something for every traveller to discover and enjoy. Whether you’re embarking on thrilling wildlife safaris, immersing yourself in local traditions, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Rwanda’s landscapes, the possibilities are endless. By venturing beyond the gorilla trekking trails, visitors can truly appreciate the diversity and allure of this remarkable African nation. So, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enlightenment, Rwanda invites you to explore its wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime.
