Why Travel To Rwanda? 

Landlocked Rwanda might be small in size, but it is big on wildlife, rolling green hills, and welcoming people. Add to that the chance to bear witness to history as the country rapidly forges ahead on a new path, while embracing and honoring its painful past, and travel to Rwanda has an even deeper significance. 

Go For the Gorillas 

Dubbed the land of a thousand hills, farms dot Rwanda’s fertile landscape. Its soaring jungle-covered mountains are home to a wide array of primates. Additionally, half of the world’s gorillas live in Volcanoes National Park making it one of the bets places to see gorillas in Africa. What’s more, world-renowned researcher Dian Fossey studied these magnificent creatures here, inspiring generations of travelers. Undoubtedly the most popular park in Rwanda, it remains a draw for adventure-seekers wanting to spot baby gorillas around the breathtaking Virunga Volcanoes. Plan your gorilla safari in the wet season when the gorilla migration pattern puts them at lower elevations, making treks easier. Look up when you can — golden monkeys also live in the park, munching on bamboo and performing leaping air acrobatics from tree to tree. 

See it all from Bisate Lodge, located within an extinct volcano valley, a perfect stop on your luxury Rwanda safari. Villas are thatch-covered and large windows bring in unrivaled views of the mountain habitat. Emerald green chandeliers mimic the leafy forests. In addition to its obvious charm, chefs prepare fresh meals with produce plucked straight from the on-site garden. 

Read our gorilla safari guide. 

Find More Green Space 

On the other side of the country, Akagera National Park is a symbol of successful conservation efforts. The Rwandan Civil War reduced its wildlife population by half. Then the government stepped in and implemented strict laws to preserve the savannah landscape laced with swamps, forests and jagged mountains. And what an achievement it has been. A colorful troupe of characters makes the wildlife viewing top-notch. Strolling elephants, herds of buffalo, massive hippos, curious monkeys and baboons are all part of nature’s parade. 

Still, Rwanda’s shining stars will always be the primates. Travel to Rwanda to identify one of the 14 species — and some 25 percent of Africa’s primate species — found in the mist-laden Nyungwe Forest National Park. Colorful birds fly through the lofty foliage and butterflies flutter, their iridescent wings shimmering in the sunlight. The dense and lush area is one of those rare places that feels incredibly remote and untouched by humans. 

Nyungwe House, a partner of One&Only, is the perfect outpost for this African adventure. Nestled between a working tea plantation and rainforest, the 22-room and suites property boasts delicious cuisine and awe-inspiring views from private decks. Additionally, Rwandan crafts inspired the immaculate interiors. 

In the middle of the country, Lake Kivu shines. Row to the middle and feel embraced by the green, terraced tea plantations rising over its shores. Fisherman sing as the sun sets on the glistening waters. From this vantage, Rwanda is magical. 

See History in the Making 

Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, has transformed into one of Africa’s most vibrant and progressive hubs—a clean, safe, and welcoming place that offers a compelling mix of history, art, cuisine, and hope. Nestled among lush hills and flowering boulevards, Kigali invites visitors to witness a country that has risen with resilience and pride.

A visit to the Genocide Memorial Center pays homage to the nearly one million who lost their lives. While the past is laid bare, so as not to be repeated, it’s a solemn, chilling reminder of how far the country has come. At the State House Museum, formerly the Presidential Palace, you'll find exhibits that offer insight into the events leading up to the genocide. Just over the garden wall, visitors can even see the remaining wreckage from Juvenal Habyarimana’s presidential plane and where it was shot down. 

Yet Kigali is not only about its past—it's about the vibrant, creative future unfolding today. Inema Art Center is one of the most exciting modern art spaces in the city. Founded in 2012, this gallery showcases stunning paintings, sculptures, and traditional crafts by local artists.  Inema also hosts music and dance performances, workshops, and community programs that give a real sense of Kigali’s dynamic cultural scene.

For a taste of traditional Rwandan cuisine, Chez John is a must. Tucked in an upscale neighborhood, this local favorite serves up authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. And for a dose of history paired with leisure, visit the Hôtel des Mille Collines, made famous by the film Hotel Rwanda. Once a sanctuary during the genocide, today it’s a chic hotel where you can sip a cocktail by the pool while enjoying live African music on weekends.

Sip on a cup of local Rwandan coffee grown in the fertile plantations, where the locals demonstrate how the bold and strong flavor is softened by milk and sugar. Rwanda’s people want to share their progress and natural treasures with the rest of the world. Get a further sense of this burgeoning generation of openness during a school visit, arranged by Ker & Downey. The enthusiasm of the children undeniably echoes the hopeful feeling of modern Africa. 

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. 

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 Journey to Rwanda 

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.