One of Ker & Downey’s Africa specialists Sara Kramer visited Tanzania and Rwanda where she trekked mountain gorillas and got to know some of the locals. Here are her top ten things for what to visit in Rwanda. Add them to your next luxury safari! 

Rwanda's Top 10

10. Visit Rwanda’s Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village and try your hand at making Sorghum flour. 

The Iby’lwacu Cultural Village was set up as a way to curb poaching and increase conservation efforts by providing a way for ex-poachers to make an income and support their families. A visit to the village offers a chance to participate in the community’s daily activities. You’ll also get a hands-on experience while learning about their culture and traditions. 

9. Experience the Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. 

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund began habituating golden monkeys in 2002 and guests have only been able to view them since 2003. Head deep into golden monkey territory with your guide for an up close and personal view of the monkeys in their natural habitat. 

8. Learn all the different ways to say hello in the local language, you’ll use this a LOT. 

Such as Muraho! 

7. Enjoy a Primus Beer (or two) overlooking Lake Kivu. 

This enjoyable beer is brewed locally and is the national beer of Rwanda. Pair it with views of the turquoise waters of Lake Kivu from Comoran Lodge for the perfect afternoon rest. 

6. Do the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park. 

Venture deep into the forest suspended 130 feet above the ground on the Nyungwe Forest National Park canopy walk. It’s 295 feet long and gets you eye level with the different primate species and various bird life. 

5. Dip your toes into Rwanda’s Lake Kivu. 

Feel the sand between your toes and dip your feet in the turquoise waters of Lake Kivu in the middle of of Africa. It’s the world’s 18th deepest lake and is surrounded by mountains, outcrops of rocks, and beautiful green terraced tea plantations for strikingly dramatic scenery. It’s one of the country's best-kept secrets and a perfect addition to your luxury Rwanda safari! 

4. Try Sambaza in Gesenyi (it’s the most fresh here). 

Gesenyi is a town located on the shores of Lake Kivu, so the Sambaza, a local delicacy of fried sardines, is freshest here. Enjoy while you watch the fishermen on the lake, and head down to the port at sunset to catch the fishermen singing their songs. 

3. Visit the Genocide Memorial Center in Kigali. 

Kigali is the capital of Rwanda and is full of history. The memorial center commemorates the Rwandan genocide of 1994 and is built on the site where over 250,000 people are buried. The permanent exhibit is a powerful memorial to the hundreds of thousands of people that lost their lives and acts as an educational facility for young children who may not remember the genocide, but are profoundly affected by it. 

Looking for more ideas for what to do in Kigali? Check out our top five things to do in Kigali! 

2. Wake up early to enjoy a cup of local Rwandan Coffee or Tea and watch the sunrise. 

It’s vibrant and the peaceful moments just before daybreak with a cup of tea or coffee are the perfect way to welcome the day. 

1. Track gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. 

Dian Fossey spent 20 years studying the mountain gorillas in the park. Today, over half of the mountain gorillas that still live in the wild reside in the park and is therefore one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa. The experience of seeing the gorillas up close and personal is something that’s hard to put into words. A gorilla safari is truly is one of the most magical experiences you will ever have in your lifetime. 

Plan your Top Ten Things to Do in Rwanda Journey 

For more information about our top things to do in Rwanda, or making a luxury Rwanda safari your next Ker & Downey journey, please contact your travel specialist. Stay up to date on all our online content by following us on Instagram, Facebook, and X.