The 5 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

The 5 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

The 5 Best Things to Do in Rwanda include gorilla and golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park, a game drive in Akagera National Park and Boat Cruises on Lake Kivu.

Here Are the 5 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

1. Gorilla Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Undoubtedly, gorilla tracking stands at the top of the best things to do in Rwanda. The misty forests of Volcanoes National Park harbor approximately one-third of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, making it the premier destination for this life-changing experience. Trekking through bamboo forests to spend an hour with these gentle giants ranks among the best things to do in Rwanda for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The conservation success story behind gorilla protection adds deeper meaning to this activity, showcasing why it remains one of the best things to do in Rwanda for conscious travelers.


2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest offers another primate experience that ranks high among the best things to do in Rwanda. This ancient rainforest houses a significant population of chimpanzees, our closest relatives sharing 98% of human DNA. Tracking these intelligent, social creatures through one of Africa's oldest forests is considered one of the best things to do in Rwanda by wildlife photographers and nature lovers. The forest's remarkable biodiversity, including 13 other primate species, further cements Nyungwe chimpanzee tracking as one of the best things to do in Rwanda for those seeking authentic wilderness experiences.


3. Akagera Game Drives

For traditional safari enthusiasts, game drives in Akagera National Park represent some of the best things to do in Rwanda. This savannah landscape offers a complete contrast to Rwanda's forested regions, providing habitat for the Big Five and numerous other species. The park's remarkable restoration story makes exploring Akagera one of the best things to do in Rwanda for conservation-minded travelers. Morning and evening game drives reveal different aspects of wildlife behavior, making this activity one of the best things to do in Rwanda throughout the year regardless of when you visit.


4. Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

The serene waters of Lake Kivu provide a perfect respite after wildlife adventures, making boat cruises on Lake Kivu one of the best things to do in Rwanda for relaxation and scenic beauty. This massive freshwater lake bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo offers stunning vistas of surrounding hills and islands. Exploring fishing villages and swimming in the methane-free waters counts among the best things to do in Rwanda for cultural immersion and leisure activities. Sunset cruises, in particular, deliver magical experiences that many travelers consider among the best things to do in Rwanda for photography enthusiasts.


5. Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park

Completing our list of the best things to do in Rwanda is golden monkey tracking, another exceptional primate experience in Volcanoes National Park. These playful, distinctive monkeys with golden-orange fur provide a different but equally rewarding wildlife encounter. Trekking through bamboo zones to observe these endangered primates’ rates is highly among the best things to do in Rwanda for those seeking less strenuous but still remarkable wildlife experiences. Their acrobatic displays and social interactions make golden monkey tracking one of the best things to do in Rwanda that often exceeds visitors' expectations.

What Is the Best Time to Go for the Best Things to Do in Rwanda?

June through September offers optimal conditions for experiencing the best things to do in Rwanda. This dry season provides clearer tracking paths and comfortable temperatures averaging 75°F during the daytime with minimal rainfall, enhancing all the best things to do in Rwanda, especially gorilla and chimp tracking. December to February creates another excellent window for enjoying the best things to do in Rwanda, with brief afternoon showers but generally sunny conditions. The moderate humidity levels during these months make outdoor activities more comfortable, ensuring you can fully appreciate the best things to do in Rwanda without weather disruptions.

How to Get There for the Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Reaching Rwanda to experience the best things to do in Rwanda is straightforward with international flights to Kigali International Airport. Major carriers including RwandAir, KLM, Brussels Airlines, and Qatar Airways offer regular connections, making access to the best things to do in Rwanda convenient from major global hubs. Early morning arrivals (around 6 am) are ideal, allowing immediate transfer to accommodation and potentially same-day access to some of the best things to do in Rwanda. The country's excellent road infrastructure further facilitates travel between locations hosting the best things to do in Rwanda, with most attractions reachable within a few hours' drive from Kigali.

What to Bring for the Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Packing appropriately enhances your experience of the best things to do in Rwanda. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in neutral colors works best for enjoying the best things to do in Rwanda comfortably. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, gardening gloves for gorilla treks, and rain gear regardless of season for the best things to do in Rwanda in forested regions. High-quality camera equipment with zoom lenses will help capture memorable moments during the best things to do in Rwanda, while binoculars enhance wildlife viewing. Respectful dress standards (shoulders and knees covered) apply when experiencing cultural aspects among the best things to do in Rwanda.

How Much Does a Rwanda Safari Cost?

Budgeting for the best things to do in Rwanda requires planning, with costs varying significantly based on accommodation choices and activities. Gorilla permits ($1,500 per person) represent the largest expense among the best things to do in Rwanda, while chimpanzee tracking ($250) and golden monkey permits ($100) are more affordable options among the best things to do in Rwanda. A comprehensive 7-day itinerary including the best things to do in Rwanda ranges from $3,000 per person (budget) to $8,000+ (luxury). The value received from experiencing the best things to do in Rwanda justifies the investment for most travelers, with conservation fees directly supporting wildlife protection and community development.

Which Is Better Safari Uganda or Rwanda Safari?

When comparing the best things to do in Rwanda versus Uganda, both countries offer exceptional experiences with distinct advantages. Rwanda provides more streamlined access to the best things to do in Rwanda, with shorter drives and excellent infrastructure making logistics easier. The best things to do in Rwanda often come with premium pricing but deliver exclusive, less crowded experiences. Uganda offers more diverse landscapes and wildlife viewing at lower costs, but the best things to do in Rwanda typically provide more intimate encounters with certain species. For gorilla tracking specifically, the best things to do in Rwanda include shorter, less arduous hikes, while Uganda offers more affordability ($800) and a variety of gorilla families (more than 20 mountain gorilla families)

Where to Sleep, Eat and Drink During the Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Accommodation options supporting the best things to do in Rwanda range from comfortable budget lodges to ultra-luxury properties. Near gorilla tracking, budget travelers enjoy Nature's Nest, mid-range visitors prefer Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and luxury seekers choose One&Only Gorilla's Nest while experiencing the best things to do in Rwanda. Rwandan cuisine enhances the best things to do in Rwanda with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Traditional dishes like brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and isombe (cassava leaves stew) complement the best things to do in Rwanda with authentic flavors. Local beverages, including Rwandan coffee, tea, and banana beer, provide refreshment after experiencing the best things to do in Rwanda throughout the day.

Booking for the Best Things to Do in Rwanda with Dav Safaris

Securing your adventure to experience the best things to do in Rwanda becomes effortless with Dav Safaris' expertise. Our deep local knowledge ensures you'll experience the best things to do in Rwanda at optimal times with expert guides enhancing each encounter. We handle all permit arrangements for the best things to do in Rwanda, particularly important for gorilla tracking which requires booking months in advance. Our tailored itineraries seamlessly connect the best things to do in Rwanda while accommodating your interests, budget, and timeframe.


Contact us today to transform your dreams of experiencing the best things to do in Rwanda into an unforgettable journey through this remarkable country.

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