Here are the top 5 things to do in Rwanda Africa. The most incredible things to do in Rwanda Africa include mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park, Kigali City Tour, Visit the Ibyiwacu Cultural village and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Rwanda, a small yet extraordinary country nestled in the heart of East Africa, offers travelers an unparalleled journey of discovery and wonder! When considering things to do in Rwanda Africa, visitors are greeted with a landscape that seamlessly blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and transformative wildlife experiences. Did you know that Rwanda has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in Africa, with visitor numbers increasing by over 50% in recent years? This remarkable nation, often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills," promises adventures that will forever change your perspective on travel and conservation.
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1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Things to do in Rwanda Africa begin with the most iconic experience: gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Located in the northwestern part of Rwanda, this stunning national park sits approximately 105 kilometers from Kigali International Airport, a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive through winding mountain roads. Volcanoes National Park, home to the magnificent mountain gorillas, offers an unparalleled wildlife experience that tops every adventurer's bucket list.
Best visited during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, gorilla trekking presents optimal conditions with minimal rainfall and more accessible terrain. Temperatures range between 10-25°C, making hiking comfortable and enjoyable. Trekkers should prepare for variable mountain conditions, packing layers and waterproof gear to ensure comfort during their gorilla trekking expedition.
Rwanda Gorilla permits are a significant investment for things to do in Rwanda Africa, with prices varying by residency. International visitors can expect to pay around $1,500 per person, $500 for foreign residents while East African Community (EAC) residents might pay approximately $200. This cost includes park entry, guide services, and a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park cater to every budget. Budget travelers can find comfortable lodges around $50-$100 per night, while mid-range options range from $150-$300. Luxury seekers can indulge in high-end lodges like Bisate Lodge or Singita Kwitonda, with prices ranging from $1,500-$3,000 per night, offering unparalleled views and exclusive gorilla tracking experiences.
Read more on the best places to stay around Volcanoes National Park here.
2. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Among the most fascinating things to do in Rwanda Africa is chimpanzee trekking in the magnificent Nyungwe National Park. Located in southwestern Rwanda, approximately 225 kilometers from Kigali (a 4–5-hour drive), this ancient rainforest represents one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa, hosting over 13 primate species.
The optimal period for things to do in Rwanda Africa involving chimpanzee tracking is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. During these months, rainfall is minimal, and forest trails remain relatively dry and navigable. Temperatures typically range between 15-25°C, creating ideal trekking conditions with cool, comfortable environments.
Nyungwe Chimpanzee tracking permits demonstrate remarkable affordability compared to gorilla permits. International visitors can expect to pay around $150, while East African residents might access permits for as low as $60. This price includes park entry, guided tracking, and the incredible opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural rainforest habitat.
Accommodation near Nyungwe National Park offers diverse options. Budget travelers can find lodges around $50-$100 per night in nearby towns like Rusizi. Mid-range options in Nyungwe Forest Lodge range from $200-$400, while luxury seekers can enjoy the One&Only Nyungwe House, with rates between $1,000-$2,000 per night, offering extraordinary forest and wildlife experiences.
Read more about the best places to stay around Nyungwe National Park here.
3. Kigali City Tour
Things to do in Rwanda Africa must include an immersive Kigali City Tour, revealing the heart and soul of this remarkable nation. Located centrally, Kigali serves as both the geographical and cultural nucleus of Rwanda, offering visitors a profound journey through history, resilience, and modern African urban life.
The best time for things to do in Rwanda Africa in Kigali is year-round, with temperatures consistently mild between 20-30°C. Unlike wilderness destinations, city tours remain accessible throughout the year. Visitors can easily reach city attractions from Kigali International Airport, located just 15 kilometers from the city center a quick 20-minute drive.
City tour experiences vary in cost, with guided tours ranging from $30-$100 depending on duration and included
attractions. Key sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets offer insights into Rwanda's complex history and vibrant contemporary culture. Tourists can choose between group tours or personalized private experiences.
Accommodation in Kigali spans all budgets. Budget travelers find hostels and guesthouses from $20-$50 per night. Mid-range hotels like Lemigo Hotel offer comfortable rooms at $100-$250 nightly. Luxury seekers can enjoy five-star experiences at Marriott or Radisson Blu, with rates between $300-$600 per night.
Read more on the best Restaurant picks in Kigali City here.
4. Visiting the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village
Things to do in Rwanda Africa become truly transformative when exploring the Ibyiwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park. Located in Musanze District, approximately 105 kilometers from Kigali, Ibyiwacu Cultural Village offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Rwandan life and cultural practices.
Ideal visiting times align with gorilla trekking seasons from June to September and December to February. Temperatures remain pleasant between 15-25°C, creating comfortable conditions for cultural exploration. The Ibyiwacu Cultural Village is easily accessible, just a short drive from Volcanoes National Park's main entrance.
Cultural village experiences are remarkably affordable, with entry fees ranging from $20-$50 per person. Visitors can participate in traditional dance performances, witness handicraft demonstrations, and engage directly with local community members, gaining profound insights into Rwanda's rich cultural heritage.
Accommodation options mirror those near Volcanoes National Park. Budget lodges start at $50, mid-range options between $150-$300, and luxury experiences at renowned lodges reaching $1,500-$3,000 per night, each offering unique perspectives on local culture and landscape.
5. Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Things to do in Rwanda Africa reached another pinnacle with golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. These rare, charismatic primates offer a fascinating alternative to traditional gorilla experiences, inhabiting the same stunning volcanic landscape.
Optimal golden monkey trekking periods coincide with dry seasons from June to September and December to February. Temperatures range between 10-25°C, providing comfortable hiking conditions through bamboo forests and mountain terrain. Volcanoes National Park remains approximately 105 kilometers from Kigali, offering a scenic journey through Rwanda's beautiful countryside.
Rwanda Golden monkey permits are more budget-friendly compared to gorilla tracking. International visitors typically pay around $100, while East African residents might access permits for as low as $50. This price includes park entry, guide services, and the extraordinary opportunity to observe these unique primates in their natural habitat.
Accommodation options remain consistent with other Volcanoes National Park experiences. Budget lodges start at $50, mid-range options between $150-$300, and luxury experiences at renowned lodges reaching $1,500-$3,000 per night, each providing exceptional access to this remarkable ecosystem.
Read more on the best places to stay around Volcanoes National Park here.
Booking the Top 5 Things to Do in Rwanda Africa with Dav Safaris
As your ultimate guide to things to do in Rwanda Africa, Dav Safaris stands ready to transform your travel dreams into extraordinary memories. Our expertly crafted tours ensure seamless, immersive experiences across Rwanda's most stunning destinations. From gorilla trekking to cultural explorations, we guarantee adventures that will inspire, educate, and transform.
Contact Dav Safaris today and unlock the extraordinary world of Rwanda. Read our recent client reviews on Trip Advisor to make the right choice.