Rwanda
Eastern Africa
Travel Information
Travel to Rwanda
When to visit
Rwanda can be visited at any time, but gorilla tracking tends to be least challenging in the relatively dry months of June to September and December to February. Conversely, last minute gorilla tracking permits are most readily available over the low season of March to May.
Visas and paperwork
A visa is required by all US visitors to Rwanda. For tourist visits of up to 30 days, these can be bought on arrival by air at any land border provided your passport is valid. Those spending longer in the country should buy an e-visa in advance.
Did You Know?
Rwanda is one of the only places in the world where you can trek through misty mountains to see wild mountain gorillas—an experience described as life-changing by nearly every visitor! 🦍⛰️
Highlights
Straddling the northwest border with Uganda and the Congo, Volcanoes National Park protects the Rwandan portion of the Virunga, a series of imperious freestanding volcanoes whose forested slopes provide sanctuary to the same mountain gorilla groups studied by Dian Fossey. Gorilla tracking is the most popular activity, with 96 permits available daily to visit 12 different habituated groups, and it surely ranks among the world’s most thrilling and engaging wildlife encounters. Other activities include tracking Endangered golden monkeys, hiking to Fossey’s former research center and tomb at Karisoke, and the steep ascent to the lovely crater lake at the summit of 12,175ft Mount Bisoke.
One of the most scenic savanna reserves anywhere in Africa, Akagera National Park protects a diverse landscape of acacia woodland, open grassland and rocky outcrops dipping towards a labyrinthine network of swamps and lakes fed by the Kagera River. An exciting program of reintroduction undertaken since 2010 means this park is now home to all the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino), along with large numbers of hippo and giraffe, a dozen species of antelope, while a checklist of 530 birds includes shoebill and many other aquatic species. Game drives can be supplemented with boat trips, guided walks and night drives.
Protecting the largest extant block of Afromontane forest in East or Central Africa, Nyungwe National Park is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. L’Hoest’s monkey is the most conspicuous of 13 primate species, but visitors can also track habituated chimpanzees and a hyperactive troop of 400+ Angola colobus monkeys. A checklist of 270 bird species includes 26 Albertine Rift endemics, while botanical treats include other-worldly giant lobelias and 200 varieties of orchid.
Running for 100km along the Congolese border, beautiful Lake Kivu is hemmed in by the steep green hills of the Albertine Rift escarpment. The most popular resort town is Rubavu (Gisenyi), a short drive west of Volcanoes National Park.
From a travel perspective, Rwanda is practically synonymous with mountain gorillas. It was here, in 1967, on the forested slopes of the spectacular Virunga volcanoes, that Dian Fossey initiated her celebrated study of mountain gorillas, and here too that the Oscar-nominated movie Gorillas in the Mist was filmed. Unsurprisingly, gorilla tracking is now Rwanda’s most popular tourist activity, so much so that it’s become conventional to tag a pitstop visit for that sole reason onto a safari elsewhere in Africa. But Rwanda can also lay claim to being a worthwhile standalone ecotourism destination. Big Five safaris can be undertaken in the revitalized Akagera National Park, chimps and a diverse assembly of rare birds and monkeys inhabit Nyungwe National Park, while the mountain-ringed shores of Lake Kivu provide an opportunity to enjoy some downtime.
Photo Highlights
Rwanda Flag
Practical Information
Practical Stuff
Getting there
All international flights to Rwanda land at Kigali International Airport, which is situated on the eastern outskirts of the capital. There are no direct flights from the US, but several African, European and Middle Eastern airlines offer connecting flights.
Health and safety
Malaria is present in most parts of Rwanda and prophylactics are recommended to all visitors. Crime levels are low, but it is not advisable to walk after dark in Kigali.
Itineraries
* Pricing is based on a group of 4 guests traveling together, and with each guest sharing accommodations with one other guest (i.e. double occupancy). Also, the cost per person will vary depending on the season / month of travel – for example, pricing will be higher during dates between Christmas Eve & New Year’s Day, as well as during other peak travel times.
What’s on the Menu
Rwanda’s culinary traditions are rooted in fresh, locally grown produce and wholesome, hearty flavors. Guests can expect menus featuring African staples such as isombe (cassava leaves cooked with groundnut sauce), grilled tilapia from Lake Kivu, and tender goat brochettes served with fried plantains or ugali (a maize-based side).
The country’s fertile volcanic soil yields an abundance of fruits and vegetables—avocado, sweet potato, passion fruit, and pineapple are daily staples. Many lodges also incorporate modern international dishes into their menus, ensuring a balance of familiar Western comfort foods alongside authentic Rwandan cuisine.
Breakfasts often feature fresh fruit, pastries, eggs to order, and rich Rwandan coffee, while dinners may highlight locally sourced meats, fresh lake fish, or vegetarian specialties. Special dietary needs are easily accommodated with prior notice.
Dining in Rwanda is an opportunity to connect with the country’s warm hospitality and savor flavors shaped by its rich landscape and cultural heritage.
Rwanda Travel Questions
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness. Hikes can range from 1–4 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.
The terrain includes forest paths, uneven ground, and elevation changes. Porters are available to assist, and trekking groups are carefully managed for safety and comfort.
Luxury lodges provide exceptional comfort after each trek.
What other wildlife can I see in Rwanda?
Beyond gorillas, Rwanda offers diverse wildlife experiences:
- Akagera National Park – Big Five safari in savannah landscapes
- Nyungwe Forest National Park – Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks
Rwanda combines rainforest primate encounters with classic savannah wildlife viewing.
Why is Rwanda famous for gorilla trekking?
Rwanda is one of the world’s premier destinations for mountain gorilla trekking.
Treks take place in Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Mountains ecosystem. Guests hike through lush rainforest terrain with expert trackers to spend one unforgettable hour observing a habituated gorilla family.
Rwanda offers shorter transfer times and high-end lodge options, making it ideal for luxury primate safaris.
Is Rwanda suitable for luxury travelers?
Yes. Rwanda is known for ultra-premium safari lodges offering:
- Forest-view suites
- Private butler service
- Spa treatments
- Helicopter transfers to reduce drive time
- Exclusive-use villas