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In search of thrilling things to do in Rwanda in East Africa! Look no further; visit Rwanda today, as we have answered all the questions about what to do in Rwanda.
Officially known as the Republic of Rwanda is a small landlocked country located in the East African region, bordered by Tanzania to the east, Uganda to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Burundi to the south.
The nation has a total area of 26,338 square kilometers (10,169 square miles) which is approximately the size of Massachusetts in the United States.
Unlike other countries, the country has a rich culture, diverse ecosystems, and diverse cultural heritage and it’s blessed with natural beauty comprising of flora and fauna that always leaves adventure seekers visiting Rwanda in awe.
There are several tourist attractions in the Democratic Republic of Rwanda where one can find things to do in Rwanda while on a safari vacation such as Volcanoes N. Park, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest Park, Kigali City, Kivu Lake, Musanze Caves, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Villages, Akanyaru River, Nyabarongo River, and Lake Muhazi among others.
Some of the tourist things to do in Rwanda, to have adrenaline-filled safaris include gorilla tracking, fishing, swimming, primate trek, hiking, chimp trekking, and boat rides, to mention a few as described below.
A. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Gorilla trekking is one of the best tourist activities and highlights of a Rwanda safari trip. During this activity, one can track and see several gorillas living in bamboo forests and dense rainforests with the guidance of trained tour guides or rangers.
Places Where Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Can Be Done
Gorilla tracking in Rwanda can only be carried out in these interesting places;
Volcanoes National Park: Gorilla tracking can be carried out in Volcanoes N. Park found in northwestern Rwanda, which comprises five of the Virunga mountains, is one of the few places in the East African region and Africa at large where one can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The is divided into sectors which are the Musanze sector, Kinigi sector, Kibuye sector which are home to over 10 habituated gorilla groups, and trekkers can tour any of these groups such as the Suswa gorilla group, sabyinyo gorilla group, Amahoro gorilla group, umubano gorilla group, kwitonda gorilla group to have a close and personal view of the gentle giants.
Unique Things to See During the Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Experience in Volcanoes National Park
Some of the unique and fascinating things one gets to see on a gorilla trekking safari in the Democratic Republic of Rwanda are;
- Endangered Mountain Gorillas: When on a mountain gorilla trekking some of the unique things one can see are the majestic gentle giants, the endangered mountain gorillas in bamboo forests their natural habitat, and one can get to learn their behaviors and habits.
- Beautiful Scenery: While on a gorilla trek tour, one gets to see the unique lush bamboo forests, dense rain forests, and stunning mountain landscapes in the beautiful Volcanoes N. Park.
- Habituated Gorilla Groups: While on a safari tour, one can get to see the unique habituated gorilla groups found in the different sectors of Volcanoes N. Park, each of which has distinct troop dynamics.
These sectors are the Musanze sector, Kinigi sector, Kibuye sector which are home to over 10 habituated gorilla groups, and trekkers can tour any of these groups such as the Suswa gorilla group, sabyinyo gorilla group, Amahoro gorilla group, umubano gorilla group, kwitonda gorilla group.
- Karisoke Research Centre: This research center was founded between Karisimbi and Visoke in Volcanoes N. Park Rwanda known for having been one of the famous American primatologist Dian Fossey’s research centers while she was studying and viewing mountain gorilla habitats is one of unique things one can see and tour while gorilla tracking in Rwanda.
- Dian Fossey Tomb: This is another of the mesmerizing things to see while on a gorilla tracking tour in the Volcanoes National Park in northwestern Rwanda. Dian Fossey was an American primatologist who set up the gorilla research and conservation center in Volcanoes National Park which has been the basis of more research on the gentle giants for decades following her murder by unknown assailants she was laid to rest near her research facility which has now become a memorial site for many who come from near and far to pay tribute.
Best Time to Carry Out Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
The best time to go for a mountain gorilla trek is during the hot season which runs from December to February and June to September as travelers can witness the beautiful scenery of the gentle giants, one can, for example, see them basking in water sources.
Please note that some of these places where mountain gorilla tracking activities can be carried out require one to have secured a gorilla trekking permit or local authority authorization from the government agency Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
B. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Chimpanzee Trekking is a thrilling tourist adventure that allows you to explore the lush forests of Rwanda and get up close and personal with the closest living relatives to humans in the animal kingdom.
Places Where Chimpanzee Trekking Can Be Done
Nyungwe National Park: This National Park is a protected area in southwestern Rwanda, covering over 1,000 square kilometers best known for its lush tropical forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife, especially over 500 chimpanzees among other primates that inhabit this park.
Other places where this activity can be done are Volcanoes National Park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, and Cyamudongo Forest.
Unique Things to See During a Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Nyungwe National Park
- Chimpanzees: Observing these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, swinging through trees, foraging, and socializing is one of the unique things visitors can see while gorilla trekking in this park.
- Colobus Monkeys: Tourists on a chimpanzee trek can get opportunities to spot these striking black and white creatures, known for their distinctive appearance and acrobatic skills.
- Mangabeys: A glimpse of these rare and endangered primates is one of the unique things to be seen while on a chimpanzee trek, recognized by their vibrant colors and energetic behavior.
- Birdlife: Nyungwe Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species, including the stunning Rwenzori turaco and the majestic crowned eagle all of which can be seen while on a chimpanzee trek.
- Forest Structures: Marvel at the lush canopy, towering trees, and vibrant undergrowth of the tropical forest found in Nyungwe Park that make a breathtaking scenery that is seen while on a chimpanzee trek and forest canopy walkway.
- Waterfalls: Discover the park’s hidden waterfalls (Kamiranzovu Waterfall) creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere and landscape while on a chimpanzee trek.
- Tea Plantations: Nestled in the far northern reaches of Nyungwe National Park, the Gisovu Tea Estate lies adjacent to the ancient, untouched forest of Nyungwe, creating a stunning contrast between the meticulously manicured tea gardens and the primeval wilderness. This is one of the unique things one can see while chimpanzee trekking.
Best Time to Carry Out Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
The best time to carry out chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from Mid-May to mid-October (peak season) and December to early March (shoulder season) because they offer easier trek trails due to dry terrain, increased chimpanzee activity and visibility, comfortable weather conditions (less rain and mud)
Avoid trekking during the rainy seasons (April to May and November to December), as the terrain can be challenging and chimpanzee sightings may be less frequent.
C. Mountain Climbing and Hiking in Rwanda in Nyungwe National Park & Volcanoes National Park
This tourist activity involves taking a hike and climbing the mountain summits (Mount Bisoke Hike) that are rugged and steep with excellent scenic landscapes.
Mountain climbing can be done using a mountain bike or hiking by foot and this often rewards hikers with a good challenge obtained from reaching the mountain summits.
Interesting Places to Visit in Rwanda for Hiking and Mountain Climbing Adventures
Some of the places where mountain climbing takes place in the country are Volcanoes National Park In northwestern Rwanda, Mount Karisimbi (14,787 ft), Mount Bisoke (12,175 ft), Mount Gahinga (11,394 ft), Mount Sabyinyo (12,037 ft), Mount Muhabura (13,540 ft), etc.
It’s important to note that a mountain hike takes approximately 2-8 hours depending on the starting point, weather conditions, and activity.
Unique Things to See When on A Hiking or Mountain Climbing Adventure in Rwanda
When on a hike or mountain climbing adventure in the nation, some of the fascinating things to see are the gorillas, other diverse wildlife species like owl-faced monkeys vast species of birds all in their natural habitats, beautiful landscapes, unique flora and fauna, hot springs and waterfalls (Busoko Hot Springs and the Ntaruka Waterfall), historical sites and ancient ruins (Kigali genocide memorial center, Nkanda, and Bweyeye sites), unique caves ( Musanze Caves and the Kizibiza Cave), water bodies like rivers and crater lakes ( Kivu Lake, Lake Burera, Lake Ruhondo, Kagera River), etc.
Best Time to Go Mountain Climbing in Rwanda
The best time to go mountain climbing in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to September when the weather is dry making the hike trails traceable (Mount Bisoke Hike), their comfortable temperatures and clear skies make it easy to see the picturesque landscapes.
D. Wildlife Viewing in Rwanda
Blessed with diverse ecosystems, picturesque landscapes, and vast habitats that support a wide range of wildlife species, this nation offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities to tourists visiting the country on a safari vacation.
Interesting Places Where Wildlife Viewing Is Done in Rwanda
Some of the places where wildlife viewing takes place in the nation are often parks, lakes, and rivers and these are;
- Akagera National Park: This national park is covered with only savannah grasslands and is famously known for being a major natural habitat for the Big Five similar to those found in South Africa (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalos), as well as other wildlife species like the giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park: This is another natural habitat for chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 700 bird species. Visiting Nyungwe Forest Park will provide one with an opportunity to see chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in their natural habitats.
- Volcanoes National Park: Home to endangered mountain gorillas, owl faced monkeys, and other primates, it is a perfect wildlife hotspot for any adventure seeker and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Gishwati Forest: Situated in the western region of Rwanda, in the Ngororero District. Gishwati forest is blessed with montane forests, and dense vegetation which includes bamboo and Hypericum making it a perfect natural habitat for chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and other primates.
- Mukura Forest: This is a protected conservation area managed by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) and covered by montane forests located in the eastern region of Rwanda in the Gatsibo District.
It is blessed with a diverse array of flora and fauna thus making it a perfect natural habitat for vast wildlife species such as golden monkeys, blue monkeys, buffaloes, forest elephants, bush pigs, Reptiles (snakes, lizards)
- Lake Ihema: This relatively shallow beautiful crater lake located in eastern Rwanda, in the Akagera National Park, is a popular attraction where one can get to see hippos, crocodiles, water birds (herons, egrets, and storks), and Fish species (such as tilapia and catfish) while on a boat cruise.
- Lake Burera: This relatively deep beautiful lake is located in northern Rwanda, in the Burera District. It is well known for its beautiful scenery and aquatic life, including hippos, crocodiles, water birds (herons, egrets, and storks), and Fish species (such as tilapia and catfish) which one can view while on a boat cruise.
- Kagera River: Originating from the highlands of Burundi, the Kagera River and its tributaries (Muvumba River and Nyabarongo River) support a diverse range of wildlife species, such as hippos, crocodiles, water birds, and various fish species making it a good sport for wildlife viewing.
Unique Things to See When on A Wildlife Viewing Safari
When on a wildlife viewing trip in the land of a thousand hills, some of the unique things to see include the;
- The Big Five of Africa (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalos)
- Great migrations of wildlife like the wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrating across the savannah and crossing rivers.
- Rare or endangered species such as rhinos, gorillas, chimpanzees, aardvarks, meerkats, bush babies, nightjars, aardwolves, pangolins, and okapi.
- Bird species like ostriches, eagles, storks, and flamingos.
- Animal behaviors like courtship displays, mating rituals, and feeding patterns i.e. one can witness predators hunting and feeding off their prey.
- Vast savannah grassland and mountains create beautiful landscapes.
Best Time to Have a Wildlife Viewing Experience
The best time to have a wildlife viewing experience in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to September offering comfortable temperatures ideal for wildlife viewing as you can see animals congregating around water sources, making them easier to spot.
E. Bird Watching in Rwanda
With over 700 bird species recorded in the country 30 of which are endemic in the country, found in the diverse ecosystems and vast natural habitats, these make Birding or bird watching in Rwanda a popular activity.
Places Where Bird Watching in Rwanda is Carried Out
Interesting places where birding things to do in Rwanda the Birdwatcher’s Paradise are done:
- Nyungwe Forest National Park: A montane forest is a natural habitat for over 300 bird species, and therefore birdwatchers can get to see bird species such as the Rwenzori turaco and red-collared mountain babbler.
- Akagera National Park: This savannah grassland park is home to over 500 bird species, and birdwatchers can get to see rare birds such as the shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek from this national park.
- Volcanoes National Park: This natural habitat for gorillas is also home to a vast array of bird species like the Rwenzori turaco and red-collared mountain babbler. Birdwatchers often tour this national park to get a glimpse of these rare species.
- Lake Kivu: A freshwater lake that stretches to Congo blessed with several islands like Amahoro Island which act as natural habitats for several bird species, especially water birds like the pied kingfisher and African fish eagle are a bird watchers paradise perfect for birdwatching activities.
- Lake Muhazi: This quite a small lake in Eastern Rwanda is a great spot for birding activities as it is home to over 100 species including the papyrus gonolek and white-winged warbler.
- Akanyaru River: This river situated in the southern part of Rwanda, flowing through the Nyungwe Forest Park with several tributaries (Muyira River and Nkomane River) is a riverine natural habitat for birds like the African fin foot and white-backed night heron which interest the bird watchers who come from far just to see them.
- Nyabarongo River: Situated in the central part of Rwanda, flowing through the Nyabarongo Valley with several tributaries (Mwogo River and Rubyiro River) and stunning Nyabarongo Waterfalls, Nyabarongo River which is a habitat to over 150 bird species (papyrus gonolek, white-winged warbler, red-faced cisticola) is a great spot for bird-watching activities in the country.
- Rugezi Swamp: This swamp is a mix of wetland and grassland habitats, that support a wide range of bird species like the grey crowned crane and African purple swamp hen.
Please note that some of these places where birdwatching activities can be carried out require one to have secured a permit or local authority authorization from the government agency Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
The Uniqueness of Bird Watching in Rwanda
Some of the unique and mesmerizing features to watch out for during bird-watching things to do in Rwanda are;
- The endemic bird species that are only found in the Albertine Rift and Virunga Mountain ranges,
- Diverse natural habitats including montane forests, savannah grasslands, wetlands, and majestic mountains which harbor and support a wide range of bird species.
- Endemic Bird Species (Rwenzori turaco, African green broadbill, and red-collared mountain babbler), migratory birds from India, Europe and Asia.
- A variety of water birds, including herons, egrets, and storks.
- Birding hotspots such as Volcanoes National Park (northwestern Rwanda), Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park, Lake Kivu, Akanyaru River, Nyabarongo River, and Lake Muhazi among others are renowned birding hotspots among other characteristics.
Best Time to Go for Birdwatching in Rwanda
- The nation is blessed with a good climate and seasons which allow for birding activities to take place throughout the year depending on the kind of bird species one wants to see.
- The Hot Season: This runs from June to September and is the best time for birding safaris in Rwanda, as the weather is pleasant and birds are more active.
- Wet season: From March to May, it is a good season to spot migratory bird species that come from as far as India in their wonderful natural habitats.
F. Rwanda Boat Cruises and Rides in Akagera National Park
Another of the adventurous things to do in Rwanda are boating safaris. Visitors can take a boat ride or rent a canoe to explore the rivers and lakes and enjoy the scenic views and picturesque landscapes.
Places Suitable for Boating Things to Do in Rwanda
Boat safaris can be taken from tourist attractions such as Lake Kivu one of the greatest African lakes that stretches to Congo to explore the surrounding landscapes and get a glimpse of the aquatic animals and birds, Lake Ihema located in the Akagera National Park to see the Big Five similar to those found in South Africa and other aquatic animals, or Lake Burera to see aquatic life that is fish, animals and birds (grey crowned crane and African fish eagle)
Please note that boat cruises are rare and less available in the nation so it’s important to book one in advance with a licensed and reputable tour operator.
Unique Things to See When on A Boating Adventure
While on a boating adventure or boat trip, one gets a chance to get a glimpse of the hills, valleys, and mountains such as (Mount Bisoke, and Nyabarongo Valley), various islands like those on Lake Kivu (Amahoro Island), different fish species (tilapia), bird species, both rare and migratory (African fish eagle and grey heron), hot springs and waterfalls (Busoko Hot Springs and the Ntaruka Waterfall), rare gorillas etc. all of which make up the highlights of a safari trip.
Best Time to Go for A Boat Cruise in Rwanda
The best time to go for a boat cruise in Rwanda is from June to September when the weather is dry and pleasant perfect for outdoor activities like boat cruises on lakes like Lake Muhazi, and Lake Kivu (the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda) among other sites.
It is important to arrange this outdoor activity with a licensed and reputable tour operator for the best rates and memorable trips in Rwanda.
G. Game Drives in Rwanda in Akagera National Park
These are guided drives in 4×4 tourist vehicles around the majestic nation parks that can be done either during the day or night as per one’s preference to see interesting wildlife such as the Big Five in their natural habitats.
Places Where to Go for A Perfect Game Drive
Some of the few tourist attractions where one can tour to take a game drive are Akagera National Park (to see the Big Five i.e. lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo), Volcanoes National Park (for mountain gorilla tracking, spot gorillas, golden monkeys, buffalo, and various bird species), Nyungwe National Park (to spot chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various antelopes) among other places.
Please note that having licensed and guided tour guides and riding in 4*4 tourist vehicles will ensure that one has a safe and comfortable experience.
The Uniqueness of Rwanda Game Drives
Game drives are unique in a way that they offer all-year-round access to glimpses of Rwanda’s natural beauty which is a diverse ecosystem, lush vegetation (savannah grasslands to montane forest natural habitats), Big Five(lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo), gorillas in their natural habitat(Volcanoes National Park), primates like vervet monkeys, chimpanzees and colobus monkeys (Nyungwe National Park ), over 700 bird species found in the various national parks making this nation a bird watchers paradise.
For safety and a memorable experience please book your next game drive with a licensed tour company or reputable tour operator.
Best Time to Go for A Game Drive in Rwanda
Game drives can be done throughout the year but the best time is during the dry seasons which run from May to September and December to February.
For a memorable experience on a game drive, it is important to take it very Early morning for vast wildlife viewing as the animals move across the national parks in search of food and water and also late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing.
H. Cultural Visits in Rwanda
Embarking on a cultural visit in Rwanda grants one access to some of the most treasured historical sites, the Museums, conservation areas, memorial centers, festivities, and markets all of which help visitors learn about the vibrant culture, cultural heritage, recent history, and country’s past.
Places to Visit for A Memorable Cultural Visit in Rwanda
Looking forward to having a memorable cultural visit to Rwanda! These are some of the places one can tour in the nation;
- Ethnographic Museums (Nyanza Royal Palace (the former palace of the Rwandan king), King’s Palace Museum, Butare Museum, Kandt House Museum (learn about Rwanda’s colonial history and the lives of German explorer and administrator Richard Kandt))
- Cultural villages (Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Gorilla Guardians Village)
- Markets (Kimironko market) while on a Kigali city tour
- Nyamirambo Women’s Centre (can be visited while on a Kigali city tour)
- Rwanda Art Museum (seen while on a Kigali city tour)
- Rwandan Genocide Memorials (Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, Nyanza Genocide Memorial, and Murambi Genocide Memorial)
- Volcanoes National Park
All these places to tour for memorable cultural visits in the nation portray the country’s conservation efforts, rich vibrant culture, cultural heritage, and the country’s past.
Unique Things to See on Cultural Visits
While taking cultural visits in Rwanda, some of the unique things one can expect to see are Traditional Rwandan dancers (Intore dancers) performing the Intore traditional dance that showcases the country’s rich culture and cultural heritage, Rwandan Genocide memorials, Ethnographic Museums honoring the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and giving an insight into the country’s past (Kigali genocide memorial Centre).
Alternatively, one can attend and enjoy festivals like the Kwita Izina ceremony (a baby gorilla naming ceremony) or the Rwanda Film Festival (held in July comprising rhythmic drumming) celebrating the country’s rich cultural diversity and local culture of the locals and savoring local delicacies like traditional banana beer, fresh milk in milk bars etc.
Get a glimpse of the former palace of the Rwandan king (King’s Palace Museum) showcasing traditional architecture and offering insights into the country’s monarchical past, former presidential palace (King’s Palace Museum), vast tea plantations, buy vibrant crafts such as basket woven baskets, tour the vibrant markets filled with local handicrafts made by locals (kimironko market), colorful textiles, fresh produce, etc. during cultural visits.
Best Time to Go for Cultural Visits in Rwanda
The best time to visit the country for cultural visits is during the dry season which runs from June to September, and December to February.
This season offers drier roads and clear skies making it easier to travel to rural areas and access cultural sites, as their comfortable temperatures are ideal for forest canopy walkaways, outdoor activities, tea plantations tours, or events (Kwita Izina ceremony held in September and the Umuganda community service day held on the last Saturday of each month) and travel.
Explore Rwanda today and learn about its cultural heritage, rich culture, and traditional beliefs among other things while participating in cultural visits.
I. Rwanda Adventure Sports
For adventure seekers looking for an adrenaline-filled trip, Rwanda is the ultimate travel destination where tourists can partake in adventurous activities like Cycling, Kayaking, Canopy Walkaways, primates tracking, forest and nature walks, horse riding, Cricket, Paramotor, Caving, Helicopter Tours & Transfers arranged by Akagera Aviation.
Places to Visit to Have Splendid Adventure Sports in Rwanda
Some places to tour for splendid adventure sports in the country range from cities, crater lakes, rivers, and parks such as Volcanoes N.Park ( trek, mountain biking), Nyungwe National Park (biking, forest canopy walkaways or tours), Akagera National Park (water sports, fishing, boat cruises), Lake Kivu (crater lake suitable for beach relaxation, kayaking, paddle boarding), Mount Bisoke (climb to the summit), Mount Kinigi (trek to the summit), Rusumo Falls (walking to the waterfalls).
Additionally, Tourists can explore Kigali city (to have a Kigali city tour, tour vibrant markets and historical sites), Musanze city to see Musanze caves (outdoor activities, cultural experiences), Gisenyi city ( perfect for water sports, beach relaxation, sunset views), Cyangugu city (water sports, fishing, boat cruises on Lake Kivu), Kibuye city (biking, paddle boarding on Lake Kivu), Gishwati Forest (biking, canopy walk), Bugesera city (water sports, fishing, boat cruises on Lake Cyohoha), Lake Muhazi (paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, boat cruises ) among other towns.
Unique Things to See While Participating in Rwanda Adventure Sports
While participating in the country’s adventure sports, some of the unique things to see are;
- Stunning waterfalls (Rusumo Falls)
- Vibrant markets in towns (kimironko market)
- Research centers
- Beautiful freshwater lakes (Lake Kivu)
- Diverse wildlife species (Big Five, golden monkeys, chimpanzees)
- A vast array of birds (rare and migratory bird species),
- Historical sites (Kigali genocide memorial center)
- Lush green vegetation (montane forests and savanna grasslands)
- Picturesque views of volcano mountains
- Rich cultural villages
- Breathtaking sunsets
- A taste of local and traditional Rwandan cuisines (Rwandan coffee, banana beer)
- Local farmers in tea plantations
Best Time to Go for Adventure Sports in Rwanda
The best time to go for adventure sports in this country is during the dry season which is from June to September and December to February. These periods offer clear skies, minimal fog, mild and average temperatures (ranging from 18°C to 25°C /64°F to 77°F), dry and accessible trails, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like mountain biking and water sports.
These adventure activities in the country will give adventure seekers a memorable adrenaline-filled safari tour and insight into Rwandan culture.
J. Photography and Filming in Rwanda
Photography and filming tours in this nation are another of the most important tourist activities on a safari tour. Photography can be carried out from various tourist places and several unique and interesting things are often captured on lenses.
Places Where to Carry Out Photography and Filming Activities
The country offers a diverse range of stunning locations and tourist attractions for photography and filming activities while on a safari tour, and these places include but a few, Volcanoes N. Park, Akagera National Park, Lake Kivu (Rwanda’s largest lake), Nyungwe Forest Park.
Some other places include Kigali capital city, Kigali convention center, Gorilla Guardians Village, Musanze caves, Gisenyi City, Nyamirambo City, Nyanza City, famous hotels like Hotel des Diplomates (formerly known as Hôtel des Mille Collines where the renowned lake film ‘Hotel Rwanda’ depicting events leading to Rwanda’s dark chapter was shot from), Karisoke research center, etc.
Unique Things to Capture During Photography Activities
While on a filming and photography expedition in Rwanda, some of the unique things one can capture are;
- The majestic gorillas at water sources and in their natural habitats
- Lush montane forests like the two forests in Nyungwe Forest N. Park which are natural habitats for diverse wildlife and birds
- Volcanic landscapes
- Stunning waterfalls
- Ethnographic museum in Huye, King’s Palace Museum
- Vast array of bird species
- Capture and watch some of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo migrating, hunting, and feeding) during an animal encounter.
- Local people in milk bars
- Vibrant markets (kimironko market)
- Memorial centers and Historic sites (Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre)
- Picturesque waterfalls
- Sunset views on Lake Kivu (Rwanda’s largest lake)
- Cultural villages portraying Rwandan culture, etc.
Best Time to Carry Out Photography and Filming in Rwanda
The best time to carry out photography and filming in Rwanda is during the dry seasons which run from June to September and December to February as there are clear skies, mild temperatures, a full display of lush greenery, active diverse wildlife, minimal rainfalls all of which are perfect conditions favorable for the mountain gorilla, landscape, wildlife, cultural and night photography and filming during Rwandan tours.
To ensure a smooth and successful photography or filming experience in the country, remember to book and obtain necessary filming permits, and work with rangers or local guides for proper guidance as most sites forbid photography and filming.
K. Fishing Activities in Rwanda
The land of a thousand hills is home to a wide variety of fish species found in its water sources which tourists can try to catch while on Rwanda safaris.
This makes it a perfect travel destination for sport fishing. Some of the main fishing methods used in the country are hook, basket traps, gill nets, spearing, scoop net, or just out the net for a lucky throw.
Places Where Fishing Is Carried Out in Rwanda
Some of the most popular places or fishing spots where fishing is carried out are in crater lake areas like Lake Kivu (one of the largest freshwater lakes in Africa), Lake Muhazi, lake Ihema, Akagera River, lake Bugesera, Lake Shakana, lake Burera, and lake Ruhondo twin lakes, etc.
Unique Things to See on A Fishing Adventure
While on a fishing adventure during a Rwanda safari, some of the unique things one is likely to see are the vast fish species (Nile tilapia, Catfish, Nile perch, and Tigerfish), local fishermen using traditional fishing methods and gear which portray the local culture, aquatic wildlife (hippos, crocodiles) and water birds (Great Egret, herons), traditional Rwandan dishes made with fresh fish catch.
Best Time to Carry Out Fishing in Rwanda
The best time to go for fishing activities in this country is during the dry seasons which run from June to September and December to February as they offer comfortable temperatures, increased fish concentrations in deep waters, and clear waters with great visibility hence great fishing opportunities.
It’s important to obtain local authorizations or permits to go for fishing excursions in Rwanda.
What to Wear or Pack When Travelling to Rwanda
You are advised to carry a comfortable travel bag with Lightweight and breathable clothing preferably cotton or linen that covers the shoulders and knees or legs, these may be:
- Jeans or Long Trousers: These are important in covering the knees and legs and hence act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as well as unnecessary cuts.
- Casual Pants; Casual pants also act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as they cover the knees and legs.
- Scarf or Shawl; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes during a safari trip.
- Light Jacket; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes enroute a safari trip.
- Long-Sleeved Shirts: To cover up the arms from mosquito and insect bites and unnecessary cuts.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat; This helps to protect one from the scorching sun.
- Sunglasses; To protect yourself from the strong sun rays.
Please note that carrying and wearing colorful clothing isn’t advisable when going near some wildlife species!
Rwanda Safari What to Pack – Essentials to Carry for Rwanda Tours
When packing for a summer trip to Rwanda, it is important to have these essentials as well.
- Documents; One must have a passport, flight tickets, and a Rwanda visa which can be obtained from Rwanda’s embassy for easy entry into the country.
- Money; It is crucial to carry some local currency for tips, and small purchases, and preferably a debit or credit card for bigger purchases.
- Toiletries; One can pack toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, mosquito and insect repellant, hand sanitizer, wipes, sunscreen [SPF 15 or greater] with UVA and UVB protection to protect yourself from the strong sun.
- Electronics; Visitors are strongly advised to carry a smartphone, a camera to capture memories, a portable charger, a torch, a map app on a phone or GPS device, and some headphones.
- Footwear; Sneakers and hiking boots are highly recommended especially if you intend to go for mountain gorilla tracking, comfortable flats for simple tours, and some stockings as well for chilly evenings.
- Medication; You are encouraged to carry some painkillers, antacids, and antidiarrheal tabs for those with allergies and health complications, they can they’re doctor-recommended medicines.
For more information on the things to do in Rwanda, visitors need to go to the visitor’s center of each park for a briefing about all these things to do in Rwanda.
FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. Is Rwanda a good place for tourists?
Being one of the safest countries in Africa and the world, this hidden gem Rwanda is blessed with rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, amazing historical sites, diverse wildlife especially primates (endangered mountain gorillas), perfect weather for tourist activities like gorilla tracking, and good infrastructures, is a good place for tourists on Rwanda safaris.
2. What is Rwanda best known for?
This nation is best known for being one of the best natural habitats for critically endangered gorillas in Africa, it’s one of the cleanest nations in Africa and the world that has effectively banned plastic bags from the country, has milk bars, the best brewers of banana beer, hosts car-free days is involved in sustainable eco-tourism, one of the safest countries in Africa.
3. Is it safe to travel to Rwanda now?
This nation is one of the safest countries in the East African region and Africa as a whole and the world with highly trained security and military organizations which makes it safe to travel to Rwanda.
4. Is Rwanda a cheap country to visit?
The nation can be visited on either a budget-range or luxury basis by travelers as the costs for accommodation, permits, food, and tourist activities can vary depending on the safari package, location, quality, and seasons.
5. Why do tourists visit Rwanda?
Most travelers tour Rwanda’s treasures to witness and engage in gorilla tracking activities, gorilla habituation activities, chimpanzee trekking, research and conservation support activities, birdwatching, pay tribute to Dian Fossey, explore the country’s natural beauty, local culture of Rwandese, mountain hiking which rewards hikers with a good challenge, and photography among other intentions.
How many days should you spend in Rwanda?
For a truly immersive experience in Rwanda, we recommend spending at least 5 days, and ideally 10 days, to thoroughly discover its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This allows ample time for gorilla trekking, exploring the national parks, delving into the local culture, and savoring the delicious cuisine.
For all adventure seekers looking for what to do in Rwanda, the paradise gem and land of a thousand hills is the ultimate travel destination. Book your Rwanda safaris and tours with us today for an unforgettable and lifetime experience.
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