What are the major attractions in Rwanda?
This blog will list the best tourist attractions in Rwanda. The country is full with exciting discoveries that draw visitors to important locations and must-do adventures. What are the major attractions in Rwanda?
The “Land of a Thousand Hills” is a landlocked nation with stunning scenery, fascinating national parks, a vibrant and distinctive culture, and natural wonders that include gorilla trekking and seeing golden monkeys in action.
A variety of outdoor activities are available to visitors. Such as trekking one of the three volcanic summits in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to see the breathtaking landscape, wildlife, and flora of Mount Karisimbi, Mount Muhabura, or Mount Bisoke.
Rwanda offers countless thrills and activities. Beyond the amazing excitement of trekking with gorillas and monkeys, consider kayaking on Lake Kivu or strolling along the stunning canopy path in Nyungwe National Forest.
Explore Kigali’s fascinating and poignant past. As a hub for the arts and other Rwandan tourist attractions, including the charming beaches of Lake Kivu. A touching museum, and memorials to those who perished in the 1994 genocide, this capital city stands out as one of the less hectic and cleaner capitals in Africa.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
The Nyungwe Forest National Park is a hidden treasure in the isolated areas of southwest Rwanda. Numerous bird species, chimpanzees, and Ruwenzori Colobus monkeys can be found in this area. Which is one of the oldest and best-preserved mountain rainforests. The beauty and serene atmosphere of one of Rwanda’s most cherished national parks are completed with nature trails, chimpanzee trekking, tea plantation tours, breathtaking waterfalls, and the unusual canopy walkway.
With its abundance of lakes and mountain ranges. Located in the Great Rift Valley in western East Africa, Nyungwe National Park is essential to maintaining a sustainable ecosystem. The Nile River is said to have its furthest source at Nyungwe National Park.
Volcanoes National Park
The Volcanoes National Park, which is situated on Rwanda’s northwest border and is only a 2-hour drive from Kigali, is home to several bird species, rare golden monkeys, and the worlds endangered mountain gorillas. It shares borders with Mgahinga National Park in the southwest of Uganda and the Virunga National Park in the Congo.
The Park gained notoriety thanks to its creations and association with the late American primatologist Diane Fossey. Ms. Fossey established the Karisoke Research Center and carried out a number of gorilla investigations here. She is buried close to the town, in the quiet area between Mount Karismibi and Mount Bisoke.
Although gorilla trekking is the main attraction at Volcanoes National Park. Travelers can take advantage of a variety of other activities while there. Hikes around volcanoes, such as the well-liked Diane Fossey Tomb Hike, or excellent bird watching are available to visitors.
Kivu Lake
Enter Lake Kivu, one of Rwanda’s most popular tourist destinations, and enjoy its sandy shoreline. The towns of Gisenyi and Kibuye, which encircle Lake Kivu, are supported by this remarkable watershed. Here, it’s all about rest, relaxation, and peaceful surroundings.
Visitors to Lake Kivu can engage in a variety of sports, such as kayaking and canoe cruises, and swimming in the cool waters is a treat. The stunning Congo Nile Trail, which consists of rocky roads through colorful forests and lonely dirt tracks, is one of the hiking trails around Lake Kivu for those tourists who would rather stay on land. A picnic or tours of a coffee or tea plantation are options for guests looking for something a little less strenuous.
Museum of the King’s Palace
The King’s Palace Museum is well situated in Nyanza Town, next to Nyungwe National Park. This must-see location, which is only two hours’ drive from Kigali, the country’s capital, provides a thorough examination of Rwandan kings’ customs and culture as well as the legacy of colonialism.
See sights like the revered cows, also known as “Inyambo,” that stand tall and proud with their strikingly curved horns. Or enter a well-built model of a king’s palace, a royal cabin, and a duplicate of a thatched roof. Enjoy some locally brewed beer before exploring the colonial-style house that served as King Mutara III Rudahigwa’s royal residence in the middle of the 20th century.
Finish off your trip with a traditional song. Which is a type of poetry used to soothe the Inyambo cows into a relaxed condition. This practice is exclusive to Rwanda. One of Rwanda’s most popular tourist destinations is the King’s Palace Museum.
Kigali City
Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and most serene cities, has fascinating markets, museums, and art galleries. The ideal starting point for a safari, gorilla walk, or encounter with golden monkeys, Kigali city welcomes you to enjoy the local food, lively culture, and extensive history.
Enjoy the chance to explore the Kimironko Market. Where local merchants proudly showcase their goods, which range from colorful textiles to exquisitely made mementos. While a visit to the Rwanda Art Museum, housed in the former Presidential Palace, is highly recommended, the Inema Arts Center is a well-known craft center.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park offers a delightful mix of wetlands, undulating forest grasslands, and dry savannahs. There are antelope species like as giraffes, lions, buffalo, rhinos, hippopotamuses, elephants, and leopards. Akagera is a very small park about three hours’ driving from Kigali. Private boat excursions, sunset cruises, and nighttime game drives are available in addition to escorted Big 5 game drives.
Highlights:
- The optimum time to go on a Big 5 safari in an open vehicle is during the dry season. Which lasts from January to February and June to September.
- Kigali is easily accessible.
- You can enjoy leisurely private boat excursions, sunset cruises, and night safaris in addition to the safaris.
- Central Africa’s largest protected wetland area is Akagera.
In conclusion
Rwanda has a wide variety of tourist attractions, such as mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey encounters, and breathtaking safari walks and game drives in its national parks. Numerous tribal tribes, a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and important urban landmarks like Kigali’s Genocide Museum may all be found in Rwanda. Get in touch with Abunda Discoveries Uganda to learn about Rwanda’s variety.
