Rwanda
Photo of AI-Livingstone
AI-Livingstone
01 Feb 2025Updated last time
ShareShare
Edit Trip Edit
Bookmark TripSave

10 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda

Welcome to Your Adventure in the Heart of Africa: Rwanda!

Rwanda, fondly known as the 'land of a thousand hills', offers an exquisite blend of phenomenal scenic beauty, captivating wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. This small yet majestic nation in East Africa never ceases to enthrall its visitors with its stunning landscapes and warm, friendly people. Easy to navigate and safe, Rwanda is the perfect destination for your next adventure.

From exploring the vibrant city life of Kigali to visiting remarkable national parks teeming with wildlife, trekking through ancient rainforests, relishing the tranquillity of beautiful Lake Kivu, delving into the traditional culture at the King's Palace Museum, witnessing the striking beauty of Musanze Caves, to hiking up Mount Kigali for a stunning panoramic view of the cityscape, Rwanda offers something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Kigali

    Kigali is known as one of the most vibrant, clean, and safe cities in Africa. It offers a blend of modern infrastructure, cultural attractions, and numerous dining options. Key points of interest include the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the bustling Kimironko Market.
    Kigali
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Kigali
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Kigali
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin2

    Volcanoes National Park

    Volcanoes National Park is home to the Rwandan part of the Virunga Mountains and offers stunning landscapes and wildlife. It's one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Additionally, the park also hosts the Golden Monkeys, another rare and endangered species.
    Volcanoes National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Volcanoes National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    Nyungwe is one of Africa's oldest rainforests and is rich in biodiversity, hosting over 1000 species of creation. It is the most important site for biodiversity in Rwanda. The forest also boasts extensive hiking trails, a high canopy walk, numerous bird species and a chance to see primates like chimpanzees and Colobus monkeys.
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Akagera National Park

    Akagera National Park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including swamps, open savannah, and woodland. It hosts a variety of wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and various bird species. The park is also home to the largest protected wetland in central Africa.
    Akagera National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Akagera National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Akagera National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Akagera National Park
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Akagera National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Akagera National Park
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Lake Kivu

    Lake Kivu is one of the largest and deepest lakes in Africa, offering beautiful views and water sports activities. The lake's resorts offer boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking activities. The nearby coffee plantation tours are also not to be missed.
    Lake Kivu
    Lake Kivu
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lake Kivu
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lake Kivu
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lake Kivu
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Lake Kivu
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Lake Kivu
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    King's Palace Museum

    The King's Palace Museum offers insights into Rwanda's cultural history. This reconstructed royal residence depicts traditional Rwandan life and culture. The museum is also home to the 'Inyambo', a traditional breed of cattle known for their long, large horns and their significant role in the Rwandan culture.
    King's Palace Museum
    King's Palace Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    King's Palace Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    King's Palace Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    King's Palace Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    King's Palace Museum
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    King's Palace Museum
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin7

    Musanze Caves

    The Musanze Caves, with a length of 2 kilometers, offer an intense exploration experience. These caves were formed by volcanic activity over 65 million years ago, providing a remarkable display of the region's geology. The caves also bear a significant history relating to the local population that used it as a shelter during wartimes.
    Musanze Caves
    Musanze Caves
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Musanze Caves
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Musanze Caves
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Musanze Caves
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Musanze Caves
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Musanze Caves
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin8

    Ethnographic Museum

    The Ethnographic Museum, one of the six museums comprising the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda, is regarded as one of the best ethnographic museums in East Africa. It offers an in-depth look into the cultures and history of Rwanda, showcasing a variety of artifacts, musical instruments, and traditional objects.
    Ethnographic Museum
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Ethnographic Museum
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin9

    Gisenyi Public Beach

    Gisenyi Public Beach is located on the shores of Lake Kivu, offering a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and recreation. With pristine waters and sandy beaches, it is perfect for a range of water activities such as swimming, boat riding, or just enjoying the picturesque view. The nearby hot springs are also a popular attraction.
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Gisenyi Public Beach
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin10

    Mount Kigali

    Mount Kigali provides a breath-taking bird's eye view of the city. It's a great place for outdoor activities such as biking and hiking. Along the way, you can explore a variety of flora and fauna. Besides, it's an excellent spot to grasp the picturesque view of the sunrise or sunset over Kigali city.
    Mount Kigali
    Mount Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Mount Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Mount Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Mount Kigali
    Play tiktok videoVideo source - tiktok
    Mount Kigali
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Mount Kigali
    Play youtube videoVideo source - youtube
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    Question Coffee Bar

    Question Coffee Bar

    This cafe is part of a small batch roastery which trains, empowers and connects female coffee farmers across Rwanda. Enjoy quality coffee while contributing to empowering local communities.
    Picture for Question Coffee Bar
  • Restaurant Icon

    Heaven Restaurant

    Heaven Restaurant

    Located in the heart of Kigali, the Heaven Restaurant not only serves a fusion of Rwandan and Western cuisine, but also supports local initiatives by promoting local produce and crafts.
    Picture for Heaven Restaurant
  • Restaurant Icon

    Repub Lounge

    Repub Lounge

    This Kigali-based restaurant is known for its high-quality, authentic Rwandan cuisine served in a comfortable adobe house setting. It organizes live music on weekends to introduce patrons to local cultural
    Picture for Repub Lounge
  • Restaurant Icon

    Tam Tam Bikini

    Tam Tam Bikini

    This unique beachfront restaurant on Lake Kivu serves fresh lake fish and cold drinks in repurposed boats.
    Picture for Tam Tam Bikini
  • Restaurant Icon

    Fusion Restaurant

    Fusion Restaurant

    Located in Musanze district, it is uniquely built out of natural materials offering a menu with a mix of local and international cuisine, with great views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
    Picture for Fusion Restaurant
  • Restaurant Icon

    Inema Arts Cafe

    Inema Arts Cafe

    Located within Inema Art Centre in Kigali, this cafe offers a unique combination of coffee, arts and culture. Regular art exhibitions and events are held at the center.
    Picture for Inema Arts Cafe
  • Restaurant Icon

    Pili Pili

    Pili Pili

    Serving a mix of Rwandan and international dishes, this restaurant in Kigali is famous for its spectacular views of Kigali's skyline and its swimming pool.
    Picture for Pili Pili

Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    The Retreat by Heaven

    The Retreat by Heaven

    This premium boutique hotel located in Kigali features solar-powered luxury rooms, farm-to-table dining, a yoga & wellness center and a saltwater pool with the best views of Kigali.
    Picture for The Retreat by Heaven
  • Hotel Icon

    Bisate Lodge

    Bisate Lodge

    Nestled in the natural amphitheater of an eroded volcanic cone near Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge offers breathtaking views and easy access to gorilla treks.
    Picture for Bisate Lodge
  • Hotel Icon

    One&Only Nyungwe House

    One&Only Nyungwe House

    Set on the edge of the Nyungwe Forest National Park, it provides a unique opportunity for guests to enjoy an authentic rainforest experience along with luxurious accommodations.
    Picture for One&Only Nyungwe House
  • Hotel Icon

    Serena Lake Kivu

    Serena Lake Kivu

    This hotel offers an idyllic location on the shores of Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. It's perfect for water sports, beach relaxation and exploring the nearby hot springs.
    Picture for Serena Lake Kivu
  • Hotel Icon

    Ruzizi Tented Lodge

    Ruzizi Tented Lodge

    Located inside the Akagera National Park, this eco-lodge provides an authentic savannah safari experience while minimizing environmental impact.
    Picture for Ruzizi Tented Lodge
  • Hotel Icon

    The Bishop's House

    The Bishop's House

    Located in the southern city of Butare, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations in a historic building that was once the residence of the local Bishop.
    Picture for The Bishop's House

Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Let's Rock Southampton

    Let's Rock Southampton

    The event will take place at Southampton Common in Southampton.
    Map IconSouthampton Common in Southampton (1470.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Let's Rock Southampton
  • Event Icon

    Summer Rocks 2024

    Summer Rocks 2024

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Summer Rocks 2024
  • Event Icon

    Dom Martin

    Dom Martin

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Dom Martin
  • Event Icon

    The Smyths

    The Smyths

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for The Smyths
  • Event Icon

    Hillbilly Vegas

    Hillbilly Vegas

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Hillbilly Vegas
  • Event Icon

    The Commoners

    The Commoners

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Jul 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for The Commoners
  • Event Icon

    Armored Saint

    Armored Saint

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1583.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Aug 2024
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Armored Saint

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    How was driving a vehicle in Rwanda? I am planning a trip and having a driver the whole time is really expensive. To do gorillas, chimps, akagera, and a 4 day bike tour along ...

    Tips from two weeks in Rwanda (Sept 2023)

    How was driving a vehicle in Rwanda? I am planning a trip and having a driver the whole time is really expensive. To do gorillas, chimps, akagera, and a 4 day bike tour along ...

    /r/travel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Areas like Kiyovu and Nyarutarama are popular among travelers for their amenities and safety. When is the best time to visit Rwanda!? The dry seasons from June to September an...

    Rwanda recommendations

    Areas like Kiyovu and Nyarutarama are popular among travelers for their amenities and safety. When is the best time to visit Rwanda!? The dry seasons from June to September an...

    /r/Rwanda
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice . Hello! I am a 20 year old male from the USA hoping to visit Rwanda in the near future. I didn't want to post this on a traveler's subred...

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice . Hello! I am a 20 year old male from the USA hoping to visit Rwanda in the near future. I didn't want to post this on a traveler's subred...

    /r/Rwanda
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Visit Rwanda: Explore the Land of a Thousand Hills & Travel Advice Greetings from Rwanda. It is essential to engage the services of a tour operator like Kabira Gorilla Safari...

    Rwanda is a very good choice for a first-time visit to Africa

    Visit Rwanda: Explore the Land of a Thousand Hills & Travel Advice Greetings from Rwanda. It is essential to engage the services of a tour operator like Kabira Gorilla Safari...

    /r/Rwanda
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    We spent a day hiking (canapy) and a day on Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali. If you can, try to spend 2 days at Akagera. The extra day allowed us to do a "night drive" in...

    Advice on my trip to Rwanda

    We spent a day hiking (canapy) and a day on Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali. If you can, try to spend 2 days at Akagera. The extra day allowed us to do a "night drive" in...

    /r/Rwanda
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Hey there, fellow netizens in Rwanda! I'm a 22-year-old guy living in Nairobi, and I've always had my eyes on Rwanda as a place to visit. I'm actually getting ready for the tr...

    Seeking Tips for My First Trip to Rwanda and Considering ...

    Hey there, fellow netizens in Rwanda! I'm a 22-year-old guy living in Nairobi, and I've always had my eyes on Rwanda as a place to visit. I'm actually getting ready for the tr...

    /r/Rwanda
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    JD Young - Wowe

    JD Young - Wowe

    This song by Knowless Butera, one of Rwanda's top female artists, offers uplifting lyrics and rhythm that capture the spirit of love and joy.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for JD Young - Wowe
  • Music Icon

    Weston Estate - Slowly

    Weston Estate - Slowly

    Slowly by Meddy is a heartfelt love song that blends traditional Rwandan vibes with modern beats. It was a massive hit not only in Rwanda but also in East Africa.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Weston Estate - Slowly
  • Music Icon

    Dominic Ashimwe - Ndacyagukunda

    Dominic Ashimwe - Ndacyagukunda

    Tom Close's song Ndacyagukunda is a soft ballad song, perfect for a calm evening by Lake Kivu.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Dominic Ashimwe - Ndacyagukunda
  • Music Icon

    Mico The Best - Igare

    Mico The Best - Igare

    This song by Teta Diana, a talented female artist, well reflects Rwanda's youthful and energetic culture.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Mico The Best - Igare
  • Music Icon

    Luke Combs - Beautiful Crazy

    Luke Combs - Beautiful Crazy

    Beautiful by Urban Boyz is a vibrant track that showcases the harmonic blend of this Rwandan boy band. It's perfect for a drive through Rwanda's scenic routes.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Luke Combs - Beautiful Crazy
  • Music Icon

    RISKY TARIGAN - AWAS KEBANTING

    RISKY TARIGAN - AWAS KEBANTING

    This song by Kizito Mihigo, a popular Rwandan gospel singer, is a soothing and spiritual tune that reflects Rwanda's peaceful aura.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for RISKY TARIGAN - AWAS KEBANTING
  • Music Icon

    Adam O - Warming up ( Top Soil Riddim)

    Adam O - Warming up ( Top Soil Riddim)

    King James' song Akabizu has a cheerful beat. Listening to this song will raise your spirits on any given day in Rwanda.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Adam O - Warming up ( Top Soil Riddim)
  • Music Icon

    Hans Zimmer - Singapore - From "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"/Score

    Hans Zimmer - Singapore - From "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"/Score

    The memorable beats and lyrics from Singapore by Riderman offer a lively soundtrack to enhance the spirit of your Rwandan adventure.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Hans Zimmer - Singapore - From "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"/Score
  • Music Icon

    Otile Brown - Ndagukunda

    Otile Brown - Ndagukunda

    Ndagukunda by Queen Cha is a beautiful love song that perfectly sets the mood for a romantic evening in Rwanda.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Otile Brown - Ndagukunda
  • Music Icon

    Lata Mangeshkar - Kora Kagaz Tha Yeh Man Mera (From "Aradhana")

    Lata Mangeshkar - Kora Kagaz Tha Yeh Man Mera (From "Aradhana")

    Kora Kagame by Deo Munyakazi is a traditional Rwandan song played on the Inanga, a traditional Rwandan instrument. The song encapsulates the essence of Rwandan history and culture.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Lata Mangeshkar - Kora Kagaz Tha Yeh Man Mera (From "Aradhana")