The Rwandans have put civil war and genocide behind them and, united as a nation, they are keen to show visitors the beauty of their tiny landlocked country. Although smaller than Lake Victoria, Rwanda has the largest remaining single tract of montane forest anywhere in East and Central Africa and three national parks, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park and Volcanoes National Park. The last is home to mountain gorillas whose very existence is under threat. It is one of the greatest privileges in travel to see them in the wild in the vast volcanic Virunga Mountains region that stretches into Uganda and Congo. While here, those interested in conservation can pay their respects at the grave of the American primatologist and conservationist Dian Fossey. Extend your Rwanda holidays to take in more of the 'Land of a Thousand Hills' and you can discover Akagera National Park, or venture to Nyungwe where primates thrive in their forest sanctuary.

Rwanda holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Why visit Rwanda with Original Travel

Boasting over 20 years of travel experience in East Africa, our consultants’ knowledge of Rwanda runs deep. We’re passionate about curating tailor-made itineraries that show off the country’s wildlife and landscapes, whether they include carefully planned gorilla encounters on a family holiday or scenic rainforest treks during an unforgettable honeymoon. Working with hand-picked guides and Concierges, your trip will be elevated by personal stories that give a deeper insight into Rwanda’s culture. Our expertise doesn’t end there, as we can secure the best tented stays or luxurious lodges tailored to your preferences.

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Travel to Rwanda by Region

Akagera National Park

Running along the north east border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park covers 433 square miles of incredibly varied and game rich terrain. Made up of numerous lakes and surrounding forests, rolling highlands and vast savannah plains, the terrain here is some of the most diverse for a reserve anywhere in Africa. Consequently the biodiversity is fantastic and the park forms the largest protected wetland in central Africa. In fact, over 500 bird species call the park home and even the elusive shoebill can be spotted. Thanks to the recent re-introduction of black rhino, the park is now officially also a Big Five destination. Elephants, buffaloes and zebra are all found in large numbers and leopards, hyenas, side-striped jackals and lions are all frequently spotted too. That said, when it comes to big game Akagera has had a troubled history. Despite being officially founded in 1934, much of the park was re-allocated for farming, which led to a decline in the game numbers. However, in recent years a dedicated conservation effort has pushed back on farming and numerous game have been re-introduced to the area, making Akagera National Park holidays a great safari option once again.

Nyungwe National Park

Covering nearly 400 square miles of virtually untouched tropical forest in the south west corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a wildlife lover's paradise. In the tall, dense treetops over 310 different birds (16 of which are endemic) and hundreds of butterfly species thrive and fill the air with colour. Lower down, 12 different primate species can be found among the old mahogany trees, giant ferns and climbing orchids. Particularly notable are the 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori black & white colobus monkeys, as well as the habituated group of chimpanzees. Visitors can stay busy on their Nyungwe National Park holidays with numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, and of course, the opportunity to track and spend time with the chimpanzees. To get to grips with the scale of the forest, a walk along the canopy walkway offers incredible panoramic views over the treetops.

Volcanoes National Park

While Rwanda remains scarred by the genocide of 1994, in recent years the situation has improved dramatically with much of the infrastructure rebuilt, the economy resurrected and tourism beginning to thrive once more. Of particular importance to the tourism industry is the presence of approximately half of the world's wild population of mountain gorillas, which are resident on the Rwandan slopes of the vast volcanic Virunga conservation area stretching into Uganda and The Congo. Aside from gorilla trekking, on Volcanoes National Park holidays we can arrange exploration of the surrounding lakes; visits to the market town of Ruhengeri and the Karisoke Research Centre established by Dian Fossey.

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Rwanda Testimonials

3 reviews
4.8 / 5
"The One and Only Nyungwe House was probably the best hotel I have stayed in. The staff at all the hotels was excellent, and Eric, the driver, really made the trip outstanding for us. He was very knowledgeable and friendly and always went the extra mile to make sure that we had a great trip."
Paul - London
Published on 21st August 2024
"Overall a really wonderful trip. Rwanda is amazing and worked very well in combination with Kenya and Tanzania, offering something totally different. "
Michelle - London
Published on 5th November 2019
"Original Travel organised a wonderful holiday to Rwanda. The planning process and on-site services were top notch. You must go and visit this magnificent country and, of course, see the gorillas, a genuinely amazing experience. Thanks again to our consultant who perfectly translated our ideas into the trip of our dreams in Rwanda."
Jennifer - Nottingham
Published on 30th August 2019

Our Rwanda
specialists

Boasting a specialist born and bred in East Africa among our team of experts, we know a thing or two about crafting exceptional holidays in Rwanda. We work with only the best guides who are passionate about showcasing their country, from Akagera National Park to the vast volcanic region. Need any last-minute advice? Make the most of our Concierge’s ability to book the best dinner spot in Kigali or organise a private cruise on Lake Ihema - all at the drop of a hat. Whether you’re after rest and relaxation, unforgettable encounters with a silverback or cultural immersion, we’ve got the inside scoop on it all.

What can you find in Rwanda that you won't find anywhere else?

Gorilla-tracking is a key reason for visiting Rwanda, and as the best place to spot them, Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit during Rwanda holidays. Our travel experts have an in-depth knowledge of the hugely significant Virunga conservation area, one of the few remaining places to see mountain gorillas in the wild. Rwanda is also home to two other national parks, Akagera National Park and Nyungwe National Park, both of which also offer incredible wildlife and cultural opportunities. It is worth noting that a certain level of fitness is encouraged so that you can trek up over 7,500ft – sometimes in muddy conditions – to find the gorillas.


In Kigali, the country’s thriving capital, you’ll find a dynamic culinary scene and a number of craft markets, such as Caplaki Crafts Village, with stalls selling traditional handicrafts, Rwandan woodcarvings and woven goods. Meanwhile, the tragic legacy of the genocide is ever-present, and those who wish to understand Rwanda's troubled past can visit some of the many memorials, including Kigali’s Genocide Memorial, which make for a truly moving and humbling experience. Tea lovers will be delighted to discover the country’s strong tea traditions during Rwanda holidays. Blessed with fertile volcanic soil and a temperate climate, Rwanda produces high quality tea leaves, which have become one of its largest exports.

Best places to go in Rwanda



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