Things To Do
in Rwanda
Rwanda, known as the 'Land of a Thousand Hills', is a picturesque country located in East Africa. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, including the iconic mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park. Despite its troubled past, Rwanda has emerged as a beacon of progress and sustainability, often hailed as one of the cleanest and safest countries on the continent.
Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda's history. Afterwards, explore the vibrant local markets like Kimironko Market for fresh produce and traditional crafts.
Head to the Inema Arts Center to appreciate contemporary Rwandan art, followed by a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Rwandan dishes.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, followed by a stroll through the city's nightlife spots, experiencing local music and dance.
Embark on an early morning trek in Volcanoes National Park to see the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience usually takes a few hours.
After the trek, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before exploring the nearby Musanze caves, formed by volcanic activity.
Return to Kigali and savor a traditional Rwandan dinner, reflecting on the day's adventures and the incredible wildlife encounters.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 - $20 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $30 - $150 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $0.50 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $20 - $40 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1 - $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity.
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Safe and clean environment for travelers.
- Limited public transport options outside major cities.
- Higher costs for activities like gorilla trekking.
- Limited vegetarian options in rural areas.
- "Muraho" - Hello
- "Urakomeye?" - How are you?
- "Ongera" - Thank you
- "Ndagukunda" - I love you
- "Uzi iki?" - What do you know?
Places to Visit in Rwanda
Visit one of these nice places.
A poignant site that provides a backdrop for powerful and reflective photography.
Stunning landscapes and the majestic mountain gorillas create breathtaking photo opportunities.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, the lush greenery and scenic views are perfect for nature photography.
Food in Rwanda
Rwanda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish made from maize flour, often served with vegetables or meat.
Must-Try!
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, commonly served as a street food snack.
A traditional dish made from cassava leaves and groundnuts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Kigali offering fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.
Vendors throughout the city serve delicious brochettes, fried plantains, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting people with 'Muraho' (Hello) is important; a handshake is common.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
Showing respect to elders is crucial; always greet them first in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Rwanda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in Rwanda; around 10% of the bill is customary in restaurants.
Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking, with less rainfall and cooler temperatures.
Expect heavy rains, especially in April and May; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.
A great time for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive, and the weather is generally pleasant.
Temperatures can drop, especially at night; pack warm clothes for early morning treks.
Rwanda at Night
Hiking in Rwanda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination in Volcanoes National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to see the crater lake.
Various trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park provide opportunities for hiking through lush rainforest and spotting diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Rwanda by plane.
The main international gateway to Rwanda, located about 10 km from Kigali city center, offering connections to major cities in Africa and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Rwanda, traditionally farmers and laborers.
Historically the ruling class, many Tutsis are now involved in business and government.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Rwanda, with numerous local clubs and a national team that competes internationally.
Basketball is also gaining popularity, with several local leagues and a national team that participates in regional competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, options may be limited in rural areas.
Some restaurants cater to halal diets, but it's best to check in advance.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rwanda.