11 Things to Do in Rwanda

You’ll find Rwanda packs more adventure into a small space than most countries twice its size. From tracking mountain gorillas through misty volcanic slopes to spotting elephants on budget-friendly game drives, this East African gem offers experiences that don’t always break the bank. Whether you’re drawn to primate encounters, culture, or simply escaping crowded tourist trails, Rwanda’s got something that’ll surprise you. Here’s what you can actually do there without spending a fortune.

Trek to See Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

Visiting Rwanda’s mountain gorillas ranks among the world’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences, and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with our closest living relatives in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park houses over 300 mountain gorillas across twelve habituated families, offering 90-98% success rates for sightings.

You’ll pay $1,500 for permits (foreign non-residents), though discounts sometimes reduce costs by 30%. Daily permits are limited to 96, with groups of eight visitors maximum. Treks last 1-6 hours through challenging terrain at 2,500-4,000m elevation, so you’ll need proper fitness and gear.

Visit during dry seasons (June-September, December-February) for easier conditions. The park is conveniently located just two hours’ drive from Kigali, making it easily accessible for travelers. Your permit fees directly support conservation and local communities, making this bucket-list experience meaningful beyond the unforgettable hour you’ll spend observing these magnificent creatures.

Go on Safari in Akagera National Park

Rwanda’s only savannah park, Akagera National Park, delivers a classic African safari experience where you’ll encounter all of the Big Five across 1,122 square kilometers of diverse wilderness.

You’ll spot lions (reintroduced in 2015), leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo alongside 520 bird species during morning or afternoon game drives.

Choose between self-drive options or guided tours—guides help maximize wildlife sightings and guarantee safety. Night drives offer spotlight tracking of nocturnal animals like leopards, while boat safaris on Lake Ihema bring you face-to-face with hippos and crocodiles.

Stay overnight at luxury lodges like Wilderness Magashi or budget-friendly campsites for early morning drives when predators are most active. Located just a 110 km drive from Kigali, the park is easily accessible for day trips or extended stays.

The fully-fenced park assures excellent wildlife viewing year-round.

Track Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest

Deep within Nyungwe Forest National Park‘s ancient canopy, you’ll track habituated chimpanzees through dense mountain rainforest on one of Rwanda’s most thrilling wildlife experiences. Start early—arrive at ranger stations by 4:30 AM for briefing before heading into the forest with expert guides.

You’ll choose between two main groups: the 60-strong Uwinka group or the smaller Cyamudongo group, which offers better sighting chances due to manageable terrain. Expect 2-6 hours of demanding hiking through steep, muddy trails before spending one magical hour observing chimps grooming, playing, and feeding.

Groups are limited to 8 people, and you must be 15+ years old. Book permits in advance through Irembo or tour operators. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, you’ll likely hear their distinctive hoots echoing through the canopy. The park is home to over 500 chimpanzees, making it one of Central Africa’s most significant primate habitats.

Hike Mount Karisimbi for Two Days

At 4,507 meters, Mount Karisimbi towers as Rwanda’s highest peak and delivers one of East Africa’s most rewarding two-day treks. You’ll need $400 for permits plus another $20 if you hire porters to carry your gear—worth every penny for the heavy lifting help.

The trek starts at 2,600 meters and camps overnight at 3,700 meters before tackling the steep final ascent. You’ll hike through bamboo forests, past giant lobelias, and into afro-alpine zones while spotting diverse birdlife. The summit offers spectacular sunrise views across the Virunga volcanic range. Professional rangers guide every group to ensure safety and provide expert knowledge of the terrain and wildlife.

Prepare for moderate-to-strenuous hiking with potentially muddy, foggy conditions. Pack warm clothes since summit temperatures drop to 5°C. Book permits in advance through tour operators, and rest well the week before—your legs will thank you.

Take the Canopy Walkway Through Nyungwe Forest

Seventy meters above Nyungwe’s forest floor, you’ll walk across East Africa’s only canopy bridge and get face-to-face with monkeys, colorful birds, and butterflies in their treetop habitat. The 160-meter suspended walkway offers stunning panoramic views of one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests, home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.

You’ll start your adventure with a 2.1km hike along the Igishigishigi trail from Uwinka Reception Centre. Guided tours run at 8am, 10am, 1pm, and 3pm daily, taking about two hours total.

Entrance costs $40 for international visitors, $20 for East African residents. Visit during dry season for better trail conditions and wildlife viewing. The walkway is divided into three sections of varying lengths, with the longest stretch providing the most thrilling experience. Bring raincoats and walking sticks for safety and comfort on this unforgettable treetop experience.

Relax on Lake Kivu’s Shores

Rwanda’s largest lake offers you a perfect escape from gorilla trekking with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and budget-friendly relaxation options.

You’ll find four main beaches including Nyanzaru Beach with its white sand dunes, plus Gisenyi’s sandy shoreline near luxury accommodations. The warm, bilharzia-free waters make swimming completely safe, and all public beaches are free with lifeguards on duty.

You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis from local vendors, or join boat tours to Napoleon Island where thousands of fruit bats roost. The lake reaches depths of up to 1,830 meters, making it one of the world’s deepest freshwater bodies.

Gisenyi offers trendy bars and nightlife, while peaceful Kibuye provides lakeside guesthouses perfect for unwinding.

Budget accommodations range from simple lodges to mid-range properties, making Lake Kivu accessible for every traveler’s wallet.

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

One of Rwanda’s most important cultural experiences awaits you at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you’ll gain profound insight into the country’s tragic 1994 history and remarkable recovery.

This powerful memorial serves as the final resting place for over 250,000 victims and houses three compelling permanent exhibitions. You’ll explore genocide documentation, a deeply moving children’s memorial, and displays comparing global genocidal violence.

The Education Centre provides vital context about causes and consequences while promoting prevention. Located in Gisozi, just outside central Kigali, the memorial is part of a broader network of six major genocide memorial sites throughout Rwanda.

Take time to walk through the peaceful memorial gardens, designed for reflection and contemplation. The Wall of Names honors victims, though many names remain unknown. Virtual tours are available if you can’t visit in person. Entry is free, making this essential educational experience accessible to all travelers seeking to understand Rwanda’s journey toward reconciliation.

Explore the Twin Lakes of Ruhondo and Burera

Nestled high in Rwanda’s northern highlands at 6,070 feet elevation, the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera offer you stunning volcanic scenery without the crowds or hefty entrance fees of more famous attractions.

You’ll find these interconnected lakes separated by just a kilometer-wide strip of ancient lava flows, creating dramatic backdrops against dormant volcanoes like Muhabura and Sabyinyo.

Pack your camera for incredible shots of blue waters surrounded by steep hills and lush greenery. You can hire small wooden boats from local fishermen to explore the lakes affordably.

The area’s perfect for bird watching, especially near Rugezi swamp, an Important Bird Area. Local communities actively participate in conservation activities to protect the lakes’ pristine ecosystems and water quality.

Stay in nearby villages for authentic local experiences while supporting community tourism that won’t break your budget.

Discover Musanze Caves

Just a short drive from the Twin Lakes, you’ll find another geological wonder that won’t strain your wallet. Musanze Caves offer an incredible underground adventure for just $50, making them one of Rwanda’s best value experiences.

These ancient lava tubes stretch over a mile underground, formed 60 million years ago by volcanic activity. You’ll explore four interconnected chambers with provided safety gear while expert guides share fascinating stories about the caves’ role as royal coronation sites and wartime shelters.

The 2.5-hour guided tour starts daily at 7:00 AM from Volcanoes National Park headquarters. It’s perfect as an afternoon activity after gorilla trekking. The caves also served as shelter for Tutsis during the 1994 Genocide, adding profound historical significance to your visit.

Book through Rwanda Development Board, but note that children under 12 aren’t permitted for safety reasons.

Learn About Gorilla Conservation at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus

Beyond the thrill of gorilla trekking lies a deeper opportunity to understand conservation efforts at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus, where you’ll discover how science and community work together to protect Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

This world-class research center near Volcanoes National Park opened in 2022 as the permanent home for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

You’ll explore interactive exhibits in the Conservation Gallery, walk nature trails showcasing Rwanda’s biodiversity, and visit state-of-the-art research facilities where scientists study gorilla behavior and health.

The eco-friendly campus uses local materials and sustainable design, reflecting Rwanda’s commitment to environmental protection. The facility spans 12 acres with stunning views of the Virunga Mountains, creating an immersive experience that connects visitors with the natural landscape.

Plan to spend 2-3 hours here learning about conservation strategies that guarantee these critically endangered primates survive for future generations.

Experience Kigali’s Modern Arts and Culture Scene

While Rwanda’s natural wonders draw most visitors, Kigali’s thriving arts scene offers an equally compelling reason to explore the capital. Start at Rwanda Art Museum near the airport, where 127 artworks from 51 artists showcase the country’s artistic evolution for just $5.50.

For a deeper dive, visit Inema Arts Center, Kigali’s most influential gallery that launched Rwanda’s contemporary art movement. Their $13 entrance fee includes coffee and access to weekly events like live music and yoga classes.

Don’t miss Niyo Arts Gallery, founded by an orphan to support impoverished children through art. Its vibrant exterior and community mission make it particularly meaningful.

For international recognition, check out Ivuka Arts, which has exhibited globally. For those seeking affordable art, consider visiting MoMAA, an accessible gallery and lifestyle destination that combines contemporary and traditional Rwandan artistic expressions. These galleries blend traditional Rwandan heritage with modern expression, creating a unique cultural experience.

The Sum Up

You’ll discover Rwanda offers incredible value for adventure seekers on any budget. From affordable gorilla permits to budget-friendly accommodations near national parks, you can experience world-class wildlife without breaking the bank. Pack light, book permits in advance, and consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better rates. Whether you’re tracking gorillas, hiking volcanoes, or exploring vibrant Kigali, Rwanda’s diverse experiences will give you unforgettable memories that’ll last a lifetime.