9 Best Must-Do Activities on Rwanda Solo Trip

9 Best Must-Do Activities on Rwanda Solo Trip

Find the top 9 must-do activities on a Rwanda solo trip from gorilla trekking and safaris to cultural tours, lakeside retreats, and rainforest adventures.


A Rwanda solo trip is an adventure into one of Africa’s most captivating and safe destinations, perfect for travelers craving adventure, culture, and personal discovery. With its compact size and excellent infrastructure, Rwanda allows solo explorers to seamlessly experience gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Big Five safaris in Akagera, and chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe all within a single itinerary. Kigali, the capital, is known for its cleanliness, safety, and vibrant art and café scene, providing a warm welcome and a great base to begin or end your travels. From hiking volcanic peaks to enjoying serene moments along Lake Kivu, each stop adds a new rhythm to your journey. Rwanda’s friendly locals, rich traditions, and strong focus on sustainability make it ideal for meaningful, solo exploration. Whether you’re connecting with nature, sipping Rwandan coffee in a local café, or exchanging smiles with curious children in a village, a Rwanda solo trip promises moments that are both grounding and unforgettable. It’s Africa personalized for you

9 Best Must-Do Activities on Rwanda Solo Trip

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

A Rwanda solo trip wouldn’t be complete without gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, home to one-third of the world’s mountain gorillas. With a $1,500 permit, solo travelers join a guided group for a once-in-a-lifetime hike through lush bamboo forests to witness gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek is both physically rewarding and emotionally stirring, offering intimate moments that connect you deeply with wildlife and conservation efforts. For a truly elevated Rwanda solo trip, stay at luxury lodges like One&Only Gorilla’s Nest or Bisate Lodge, both just minutes from trailheads. Booking permits 3–6 months in advance ensures a seamless, personalized adventure with fewer tourists and richer wildlife interactions.


2. Golden Monkey Trekking (Volcanoes NP)

Golden monkey trekking is a budget-friendly highlight on any Rwanda solo trip, offering delightful encounters with playful primates found only in the Virunga Mountains. At $100 per permit, it’s a great alternative or addition to gorilla trekking, especially for solo travelers looking for a more active itinerary. These sociable creatures are fascinating to watch as they leap through dense bamboo, and the treks are shorter and less strenuous, making them accessible to a wider range of visitors. Adding golden monkey trekking to your Rwanda solo trip gives you an affordable and enchanting taste of the country’s rich primate diversity without compromising on the thrill.


3. Explore Kigali the Africa’s Cleanest Capital

A Rwanda solo trip starts or ends beautifully in Kigali, a city known for its cleanliness, safety, and thriving culture. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial offers powerful insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience, while Kimironko Market introduces solo travelers to local fabrics, crafts, and flavors. Cafés like Question Coffee and experiences with Nyamirambo Women’s Center offer a warm welcome to Rwanda’s creative spirit. Solo travelers can navigate easily using SafeMotos, an app-based moto-taxi system. Exploring Kigali adds balance to your Rwanda solo trip, blending reflection, food, and culture in a capital that’s peaceful, welcoming, and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.


4. Relax at Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is a serene stop on a Rwanda solo trip perfect for relaxing after an active week of trekking or touring. Its peaceful shores offer everything from kayaking to Napoleon Island to scenic cycling along the Congo Nile Trail. Solo travelers can enjoy budget-friendly lodges like Paradise Malahide or indulge in lakeside luxury at Serena Hotel, both providing easy access to boat cruises and local cuisine. With sunset views, warm waters, and calm energy, Lake Kivu invites reflection and rejuvenation. Including this spot in your Rwanda solo trip allows time to slow down, soak in natural beauty, and recharge before your next adventure.


5. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

The must do For forest lovers and primate addicts, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest is a must on any Rwanda solo trip. The forest is one of Africa’s oldest and hosts 13 primate species, including playful chimps that swing through the canopy. A $90 permit grants access to guided treks that begin early in the morning, offering real-time primate tracking through dense jungle. The 160-meter Canopy Walkway suspended above the trees adds an adrenaline boost and unique perspective. Staying at One&Only Nyungwe House or Gisakura Guesthouse offers comfort and convenience. Adding this trek to your Rwanda solo trip brings biodiversity, excitement, and a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s rainforests.


6. Safari in Akagera National Park

 For classic wildlife lovers, a Rwanda solo trip should always include Akagera National Park the country’s only Big Five destination. Unlike crowded savanna parks elsewhere, Akagera offers boat safaris, night drives, and private game viewing in uncrowded landscapes. Solo travelers can spot rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards along Lake Ihema or enjoy a peaceful sundowner at Ruzizi Tented Lodge. Luxury options like Magashi Camp offer expert-guided safaris and panoramic lake views. With well-managed rewilding programs and varied terrain, Akagera brings thrilling encounters to your Rwanda solo trip while supporting conservation and offering rare access to East Africa’s top predators without the crowds.


7. Coffee and Tea Plantation Tours

 A Rwanda solo trip offers delicious depth with visits to the country’s renowned coffee and tea plantations. Tours like Huye Mountain Coffee and Gorilla Guardians Village invite travelers to learn how Rwanda produces its award-winning Bourbon beans and aromatic teas. These experiences not only showcase traditional farming techniques but also support local communities through tourism. Solo travelers can take hands-on roasting workshops, tastings, and cultural walks, creating memorable stories over a cup. Tucked into the hills near Nyungwe or Volcanoes National Park, these plantations are accessible and educational, turning your Rwanda solo trip into an immersive celebration of flavor and heritage.


8. Hiking and Adventure

A Rwanda solo trip is perfect for hiking enthusiasts seeking scenic routes and volcanic thrills. Mount Bisoke offers a rewarding day hike to a crater lake, while Mount Karisimbi challenges trekkers with a two-day expedition to Rwanda’s second-highest peak. For an easier option, the Musanze Caves provide a short yet fascinating solo-friendly tour through ancient lava tubes. Guided treks ensure safety and connection with local culture, while solo hikers gain freedom and introspection on the trails. These hikes add physical challenge and visual wonder to your Rwanda solo trip, perfect for travelers who thrive on foot-powered exploration and rugged natural beauty.


9. Cultural Experiences

Cultural immersion rounds out a Rwanda solo trip with depth and connection. Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park to witness traditional dances, drumming, and local storytelling. In Kigali, the Inema Arts Center celebrates contemporary Rwandan creativity with art installations, live performances, and community outreach. These encounters go beyond sightseeing, inviting solo travelers to interact directly with Rwanda’s heritage. Whether through crafts, music, or shared meals, these moments offer warmth and inspiration, Adding cultural stops to your Rwanda solo trip ensures it’s not just about landscapes and wildlife but about people, history, and the rich heartbeat of Rwandan identity

Best reasons why Rwanda is safe for Rwanda solo trip

1. Kigali is One of Africa’s Safest Cities

Kigali stands out as a top destination for a Rwanda solo trip thanks to its remarkably low crime rate and clean, well-maintained streets. Petty theft is rare, and violent crime is almost unheard of, making it one of Africa’s safest capitals. The city enforces strict laws like banning plastic bags and maintains a visible police presence, which contributes to its spotless and secure environment. For solo travelers, walking during the day is safe and enjoyable, and using SafeMotos or Yego Taxis ensures reliable transport. A Rwanda solo trip in Kigali offers peace of mind, allowing you to explore freely without the usual urban worries.


2. Strong Security and Tourist Protection

Rwanda’s commitment to safety is a major asset for anyone on a Rwanda solo trip. The country has a dedicated tourist police force with English-speaking officers ready to assist travelers, and the local “Nyumbakumi” community policing system ensures neighborhoods remain vigilant and secure. Emergency services are easily accessible by dialing 112. Unlike many tourist-heavy destinations, scams and harassment are rare, making it easier for solo travelers to relax and focus on the experience. These strong security measures make a Rwanda solo trip feel not only adventurous but also reassuringly safe.


3. English is Widely Spoken

Language barriers are minimal on a Rwanda solo trip, thanks to the country’s shift from French to English as an official language. Most people working in tourism guides, hotel staff, and city workers speak English fluently, making it easy to ask for directions, book tours, or engage in conversation. This accessibility enhances the solo travel experience, allowing for smoother navigation and deeper cultural exchange. Adding a few Kinyarwanda phrases like “Muraho” (Hello) and “Murakoze” (Thank you) to your vocabulary will earn you smiles and appreciation, enriching your Rwanda solo trip with warm local connections.


4. Reliable and Safe Transportation

 Getting around is simple and secure during a Rwanda solo trip, with multiple transportation options tailored to different comfort levels. SafeMotos (app-based motorbike taxis) and Yego Taxis offer traceable, helmet-equipped rides within cities. For longer journeys, private drivers are affordable and convenient, while Akagera Aviation provides fast domestic flights to national parks. Avoiding unmarked taxis or unfamiliar public buses is advised, but overall, Rwanda’s transport system is efficient and traveler-friendly. These options ensure that your Rwanda solo trip runs smoothly, whether you're navigating Kigali or heading into the wild.


5. Gorilla Trekking is Well-Organized and Secure

 One of the highlights of a Rwanda solo trip is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and it’s impressively well-managed. With only 96 permits issued daily, group sizes are small and intimate, enhancing the experience. Armed rangers accompany every trek, ensuring safety from wildlife and guiding you through the forest. Luxury lodges like Bisate and One&Only offer secure, high-end stays near the park. Solo travelers are grouped with others, making it a great way to meet like-minded adventurers. This structured yet thrilling activity is a cornerstone of any Rwanda solo trip.


6. No Corruption or Tourist Scams

Transparency and fairness are hallmarks of a Rwanda solo trip. The country consistently ranks among Africa’s least corrupt nations, and tourists rarely encounter scams or bribery. Police and officials are professional and respectful, and prices for permits and park fees are fixed no haggling or hidden charges. This clarity is especially reassuring for solo travelers, who often face inflated prices elsewhere. Knowing that your Rwanda solo trip won’t be marred by corruption allows you to focus on the experience, not on watching your wallet.


7. Friendly and Respectful Culture

 Rwanda’s warm and respectful culture makes it an ideal destination for a Rwanda solo trip. Locals are known for their hospitality and willingness to help, and solo female travelers often report feeling safe and welcomed. Street harassment is rare, and the country’s strong emphasis on gender equality reflected in its world-leading percentage of women in parliament creates a respectful social atmosphere. Dressing modestly, especially in rural areas, is appreciated, but you’ll find that people are kind and curious rather than intrusive. This cultural warmth adds a deeply human dimension to your Rwanda solo trip

How to get to Rwanda solo trip

Getting to Rwanda for a solo trip is smooth and accessible, whether you're flying in from abroad or traveling overland from neighboring countries. Most international travelers arrive via Kigali International Airport (KGL), which is well-connected to major cities like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Doha, Istanbul, and Brussels. Once in Kigali, the capital’s clean streets and efficient transport make it easy to begin your Rwanda solo trip with confidence. For regional travelers, overland routes from Uganda, Kenya, or Tanzania are also possible via bus or private car, with border crossings at Gatuna or Cyanika being the most common. If you're planning to explore national parks like Volcanoes, Akagera, or Nyungwe, you can book private transfers, hire a driver, or even take helicopter charters for a faster, scenic option. Whether you’re arriving by air or land, Rwanda’s excellent infrastructure and safety make it an ideal launchpad for a rewarding solo adventure. Let me know if you'd like help planning your route or choosing the best entry point based on your itinerary

Best time to go for Rwanda solo trip

The best time to go for a Rwanda solo trip is during the dry seasons, from June to September and mid-December to early February. These months offer ideal conditions for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest, with drier trails, clearer skies, and better wildlife visibility. The dry season also makes it easier to explore Kigali, enjoy Lake Kivu, and take part in cultural experiences without weather disruptions. For solo travelers, this period ensures safer hiking, smoother logistics, and more opportunities to join group treks or meet fellow adventurers. While Rwanda is a year-round destination, planning your Rwanda solo trip during these windows guarantees the most comfortable and rewarding experience

What to carry for Rwanda solo trip

For a smooth and enriching Rwanda solo trip, pack light but smart with essentials that balance comfort, safety, and cultural respect. Bring neutral-colored clothing long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers for gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, plus a rain jacket for sudden showers, especially in Volcanoes or Nyungwe. Sturdy hiking boots, a daypack, and insect repellent are must-haves for forest adventures. Include a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection, and a scarf or sarong for versatility. Tech-wise, carry a universal adapter, power bank, and camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Don’t forget your passport, visa, yellow fever certificate, and travel insurance. A reusable water bottle and first aid kit will keep you hydrated and prepared. For city days or lodge evenings, pack a smart-casual outfit and comfortable shoes. This thoughtful packing list ensures your Rwanda solo trip is safe, stylish, and adventure-ready

Best places to stay during Rwanda solo trip

On a Rwanda solo trip, the best places to stay blend safety, comfort, and opportunities to meet fellow travelers or enjoy peaceful solitude. In Kigali, solo travelers love Yambi Hostel for its social vibe, hammock zone, and friendly staff perfect for meeting others in a safe, quiet neighborhood. For more upscale stays, Heaven Boutique Hotel and The Retreat offer luxury with a local touch, plus great dining. In Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest provide secure, high-end bases for gorilla trekking, while budget-conscious travelers can opt for La Locanda or Fatima Hotel in Musanze. Near Lake Kivu, Paradise Malahide is a cozy, affordable lakeside gem, while Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offers resort-style comfort. In Nyungwe Forest, One&Only Nyungwe House is the top luxury pick, while Gisakura Guesthouse is ideal for solo adventurers on a budget. Each of these stays enhances your Rwanda solo trip with the right mix of community, privacy, and access to unforgettable experiences

Why book Rwanda solo trip with Dav safaris

A Rwanda solo trip with Dav Safaris is the perfect blend of adventure, safety, and cultural immersion crafted with the solo traveler in mind. You’ll enjoy personalized itineraries featuring once-in-a-lifetime experiences like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and golden monkey tracking, all while staying in handpicked luxury lodges that reflect Rwanda’s charm. With expert local guides, seamless logistics, and round-the-clock support, Dav Safaris ensures your journey is worry-free, meaningful, and unforgettable

Our Popular Tours