Things to Do in Rwanda

About Rwanda

Where mist-draped volcanic peaks give way to sun-drenched savannas and ancient montane forests, Rwanda unfolds as one of Africa's most remarkable transformations—a nation that has turned profound tragedy into a vision of hope, sustainability, and breathtaking natural beauty. This compact East African country, often called the "land of a thousand hills," offers an intensity of experience that far exceeds its small size, where every winding mountain road reveals another layer of its compelling story. Here, conservation and community walk hand in hand, creating a destination where your journey becomes part of something larger than tourism alone.

Travel Tips

• Plastic Bag Ban: Rwanda strictly prohibits plastic bags, and they will be confiscated at the airport upon arrival, so pack your belongings in cloth bags, backpacks, or paper bags to avoid issues at customs.

• Motorcycle Taxis (Moto): Download the SafeMotos app or use clearly marked moto-taxi drivers with numbered vests for affordable urban transportation, and always insist on wearing the provided helmet for your safety.

• Kigali Car-Free Days: Plan around Kigali's car-free mornings on the last Sunday of each month (until 11 AM), when major roads are closed to vehicles for community exercise and cycling activities.

• Gorilla Permit Booking: If visiting Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking, book your permit ($1,500 USD) several months in advance through the Rwanda Development Board, as daily permits are limited and sell out quickly during peak season.

When to Visit

Rwanda's two dry seasons—June to September and December to February—offer the best conditions for gorilla trekking, with June through September being peak season when trails are most accessible and temperatures hover comfortably between 15-27°C, though this period commands premium permit prices ($1,500) and requires booking 6-12 months ahead. The short rainy season (March-May) brings afternoon downpours and muddy, slippery mountain paths that make gorilla tracking significantly more challenging, but savvy budget travelers can benefit from hotel discounts of up to 30% and less crowded parks, with the added bonus of lush, photogenic landscapes. December to February provides an excellent sweet spot with dry trails, pleasant 20-25°C temperatures, and the opportunity to witness baby gorillas born during the previous rainy season, though you'll overlap with Rwanda's Liberation Day (July 4th) and Kwibohora festivals if visiting mid-year when hotel availability tightens. October-November's short rains are unpredictable—you might encounter week-long drizzles or just brief showers—making it a gamble for visitors on tight schedules, though serious birders prize this period for migratory species in Nyungwe Forest and Akagera National Park. Avoid late April and early May entirely when heavy rains peak at 150-200mm monthly, roads become treacherous, and some lodges in Volcanoes National Park temporarily close.