8 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Rwanda safaris feature on many travelers’ bucket lists when planning an African adventure. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife encounters, and a deeply moving cultural experience. While most visitors associate Rwanda with mountain gorilla trekking, the country offers much more than primate adventures.

From scenic lakes and volcanic hikes to vibrant cultural encounters and thrilling canopy walks, Rwanda blends nature, adventure, and heritage into one unforgettable journey. In this guide, we explore the 8 best things to do in Rwanda, highlighting the most popular safari activities and unique experiences that will immerse you in the country’s beauty and charm.

Whether you seek wildlife, adventure, or cultural discovery, Experiya Tour Company helps you experience Rwanda at its finest.

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

A safari to Rwanda feels incomplete without trekking mountain gorillas. In fact, gorilla trekking stands as one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, and Volcanoes National Park provides the perfect setting.

During the trek, you join a small group of visitors and hike through dense bamboo forests and lush vegetation in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once you find them, you spend one magical hour observing their interactions  watching mothers care for infants, juveniles play, and the dominant silverback protect his family.

To participate, you must obtain a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board. The permit costs USD 1,500 per person for foreign non-residents. Although gorilla trekking takes place year-round, the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) offer more comfortable hiking conditions.

Without a doubt, this life-changing experience tops the list of the best things to do in Rwanda.

2. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Beyond gorillas, Rwanda offers another incredible primate encounter  chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Chimpanzees share about 98% of their DNA with humans, which makes observing them both fascinating and emotional.

Early in the morning, you trek through Nyungwe’s ancient rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee troops. The park hosts two main groups  one in Cyamudongo Forest and another near Uwinka. As you hike deeper into the forest, you hear their calls echoing through the trees before finally spotting them swinging energetically from branch to branch.

Once located, you spend one hour observing and photographing them. Their playful behavior and human-like expressions create unforgettable memories.

If you love primates and rainforest adventures, chimpanzee trekking deserves a place on your Rwanda safari itinerary with Experiya Tour Company.

3. Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking offers another rare wildlife experience in Volcanoes National Park. These endangered primates, scientifically known as Cercopithecus kandti, display striking golden-orange fur patches that make them easy to recognize.

Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys move quickly and energetically through the bamboo forest. Therefore, tracking them feels lively and dynamic. They live in troops of 30 to 60 individuals, and watching them leap between trees provides excellent photography opportunities.

The trek itself is generally less strenuous than gorilla trekking, making it suitable for visitors seeking a lighter hiking experience.

If you want to diversify your primate encounters in Rwanda, golden monkey tracking offers a rewarding and unique addition to your safari.

4. Hiking Mount Karisimbi

For adventure enthusiasts, hiking Mount Karisimbi provides a thrilling challenge. As Rwanda’s highest volcano, Karisimbi rises to 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level. It forms part of the Virunga Mountain Range, which stretches across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The name “Karisimbi” means “white shell” in Kinyarwanda, referring to the snow sometimes seen at its summit. The hike typically takes two days, including an overnight camp at around 3,800 meters.

Although the climb requires physical fitness and endurance, the reward is extraordinary. From the summit, you enjoy panoramic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and neighboring volcanoes. The sense of accomplishment alone makes this one of the best adventure activities in Rwanda.

If you love hiking and dramatic landscapes, Mount Karisimbi should definitely be on your list.

5. Iby’iwacu Cultural Experience

Rwanda’s beauty goes beyond wildlife; its cultural heritage adds depth to every journey. The Iby’iwacu Cultural Experience, located near Volcanoes National Park, offers visitors a chance to connect with local traditions, particularly those of the Batwa community.

During your visit, community members welcome you with traditional dances, songs, and storytelling. You learn about ancient hunting techniques, herbal medicine practices, and traditional leadership structures.

Most importantly, this experience promotes community development and conservation by supporting former poachers who now work in tourism.

By participating, you not only enrich your understanding of Rwanda’s heritage but also contribute positively to local livelihoods. It is truly one of the most meaningful activities you can include in your Rwanda safari.

6. Relaxing at Lake Kivu

After adventurous treks, Lake Kivu offers the perfect place to relax and unwind. Located in western Rwanda along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu ranks among Africa’s Great Lakes.

The lake’s calm waters and surrounding green hills create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for leisure. You can enjoy boat cruises, kayaking, canoeing, or simply relax on the sandy shores. Towns like Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu provide comfortable accommodations and stunning sunset views.

Moreover, Lake Kivu serves as a refreshing stop between Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest.

If you seek tranquility after intense safari activities, Lake Kivu delivers the perfect balance.

7. Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

For a unique forest adventure, try the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park. This suspended walkway stretches high above the forest floor, offering a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest ecosystem.

As you walk across the bridge, you spot colorful birds, playful monkeys, and lush vegetation below. The experience combines mild adrenaline with breathtaking scenery.

Knowledgeable guides lead the walk and share fascinating information about Nyungwe’s biodiversity, including its rare plant species and wildlife.

Because Rwanda offers the only canopy walk experience in East Africa, this activity stands out as truly special.

8. Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park

Although Rwanda is famous for primates, Akagera National Park provides a classic African savannah safari experience. Located in eastern Rwanda, the park features open plains, lakes, and wetlands.

Here, you can spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and even rhinos. Game drives and boat safaris on Lake Ihema allow you to observe hippos and crocodiles up close.

Akagera completes Rwanda’s safari circuit by offering the traditional Big Five wildlife experience alongside primate adventures.

Final Thoughts

Rwanda may be small in size, but it offers extraordinary diversity. From trekking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to hiking volcanoes, exploring cultural villages, relaxing by Lake Kivu, and spotting wildlife in Akagera, the country delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Whether you seek adventure, wildlife, or cultural immersion, the 8 best things to do in Rwanda showcase the country’s highlights perfectly. With Experiya Tour Company, you can design a Rwanda safari that combines comfort, authenticity, and life-changing moments.Rwanda awaits  are you ready to explore it?