Summary
Scarred by one of the most horrific genocides of the post-war era, and characterized by political upheaval throughout much of the 20th century, Rwanda has undergone a profound transformation. Today, despite some allegations of human rights violations and subtle corruption, the nation remains a beacon of hope for many Central African countries seeking to move beyond a troubled history. A stable government and regular democratic elections are prominent features, while cities such as Kigali and Huye have evolved into hubs of culture, art, and nightlife. Economic prosperity is being fueled by sustainable industries like coffee cultivation, as well as less sustainable practices such as mineral extraction.
Rwanda has also tapped into another significant source of revenue: its stunning natural landscapes. From the montane reserves of the chimp-rich Nyungwe Forest to the lush hills and picturesque shores surrounding Lake Kivu, the country rarely fails to captivate visitors.
Let us delve into the best destinations to explore in Rwanda:
1. Kigali
Following the tragic events of the Rwandan genocide, Kigali has experienced an impressive revival.
Where marauding gangs once roamed, there are now vibrant markets and street vendors fragrant with spices.
The previously chaotic neighborhoods now reflect the dynamic energy of daily life, while the emergence of sleek skyscrapers highlights the influx of foreign investment.
Key sites include the poignant Genocide Memorial and the opulent presidential palace.
Beyond these landmarks, visitors will find a renewed sense of national pride, opportunities to purchase Rwandan crafts in lively bazaars, and engaging nightlife in lively clubs.
2. Huye
Huye, historically known as Butare, continues to be referred to by many locals by its former name.
However, regardless of its title, its esteemed academic heritage remains unchanged.
It is home to the National University and the National Institute of Scientific Research, along with several distinguished educational institutions.
This makes Huye akin to Rwanda’s version of England’s Oxford, or Massachusetts’ Cambridge.
The area is enriched with cultural attractions, including the National Museum of Rwanda, where visitors can learn about the historical Tutsi monarchs, dine with knowledgeable students, and explore the local handicraft market.
3. Volcanos National Park
While many African territories contend with world-renowned parks like Kruger and Maasai Mara, Rwanda’s Volcanos National Park stands apart with its wild, mist-enshrouded landscapes. This spectacular conservation area, which adjoins Virunga across the border, features smoking calderas of mighty peaks such as Karisimbi and the jagged Sabyinyo.
Surrounding these volcanic summits, visitors encounter lush forests and dense groves of African redwoods.
Within these woods resides another gem: the critically endangered mountain gorilla!
4. Kibuye
Kibuye extends into the blue-brown expanse of Lake Kivu, marked by a series of winding headlands and steep bays.
This town, considered one of the most picturesque in Rwanda, is embraced by towering hills shrouded in morning mist, offering expansive views of the lake and its islands in the afternoon.
In the town, one can find charming eco-lodges by the water, an interesting Catholic church, and a memorial dedicated to the Rwandan genocide.
There are ample unpopulated beaches nearby and numerous boats available for excursions across the lake.
5. Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park encompasses a mosaic of savannah and wetland habitats, resembling those found in East Africa’s renowned game parks.
Its 1,200 square kilometers of land border Tanzania, hosting a variety of wildlife including giraffes, antelopes, jackals, and more.
Safaris are gradually gaining popularity, with outfitters organizing game drives and walks from a few established lodges in the park.
The scenery is stunning, featuring the Kagera River, tranquil Lake Shakani, numerous papyrus swamps, and rich birdwatching sites.
6. Gisenyi
As the gateway to Lake Kivu, Gisenyi lies among the lush hills and mountains of the Albertine Rift Valley, where African jungles meet grassy slopes adorned with palm trees and exotic vegetation.
The landscape leads down to the muddy shores of the lake, where the surface is disturbed by flitting insects and aquatic life.
While Gisenyi shares the lake with the larger city of Goma across the border, its lakeside banks are a significant attraction.
These banks are dotted with bamboo huts and eco-lodges, ideal for those wishing to immerse themselves in the Rwandan wilderness.
7. Nyanza
Once the domain of Rwandan royalty, Nyanza signifies a historical connection to the pre-colonial Kingdom of Rwanda.
This area, located in the southern parts of the nation, is rich with history and tradition.
Visitors can explore the legacy of the country’s former rulers, confront the somber realities of the Rwandan genocide, and appreciate the museum collections housed in the historic courtrooms.
Nyanza is also home to the Rwesero Art Museum, the foremost and most esteemed museum in the country.
8. Nyungwe Forest National Park
Few protected forests can rival the exceptional qualities of Rwanda’s enchanting Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Spanning over 940 square kilometers, this park is the largest remaining area of montane forest in this region of the continent.
Furthermore, its dense canopies of mahogany trees and climbing jungle vines conceal one of the most diverse collections of primate species globally.
Among them are chimpanzees, rare golden monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and sizable baboons inhabiting these trees.
9. Lake Kivu
Although Lake Kivu does not represent a singular destination, it deserves special recognition due to the multitude of attractions and activities available to explorers within Rwanda and the scenic western border.
Covering more than 2,700 square kilometers, it stretches from Gisenyi in the north to the culturally diverse Ishwa island in the south.
Along the way, visitors can observe traditional fishing villages built on stilts, clusters of colorful catamaran boats, small tropical islands, and, at times, the contemporary outlines of natural gas extraction operations above the lake.
10. Gisuma
Gisuma represents Rwanda’s coffee capital.
Sitting amidst the foothills and lush valleys that ascend to the Nyungwe Forest, the town is relatively small.
Thanks to its delectable beans and robust coffee offerings, it has gained recognition among baristas and coffee aficionados worldwide.
The industry is led by the ethical Gisuma cooperative organization, which has significantly raised the income of local farmers in the region by nearly 45% since its inception.
Even for those who don’t enjoy coffee, Gisuma’s surrounding landscapes are breathtaking: rolling fields of coffee plants undulating with the mountain terrain.
11. Nyagatare
Situated within the granite-carved valleys of Rwanda’s northeastern provinces, Nyagatare serves as an optimal entry point to explore the lush biodiversity of Akagera National Park while also standing as an intriguing locale in its own right.
With a population nearing 100,000, the city is lively with craft markets and the university campus that enhances its charm.
Nearby rustic villages dot the hills, surrounded by landscapes featuring crocodile-filled rivers and regions inhabited by hippos.
12. Ruhengeri
For visitors to the northern town of Ruhengeri, the majestic Virunga Mountains, shrouded in mist, dominate the view; they are home to renowned wildlife such as the mountain gorilla that frequents the lush forests.
The primary allure here is the natural beauty, particularly in the proximity of Volcanos National Park, evidenced by the abundance of safari companies and tour operators offering gorilla trekking expeditions.
Nevertheless, Ruhengeri itself presents a charming atmosphere, complete with inviting guesthouses, lively pubs, and stunning vistas at nearly every turn.
13. Lake Muhazi
Winding gracefully through the hills of Rwanda’s Eastern Province, Lake Muhazi is a favored retreat for residents of Kigali seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
The lakeshore is dotted with quiet picnic areas, and a popular country club offers volleyball courts, tranquil cabanas, restaurants, and boat and bike rentals.
The charming towns of Gahini and Rwesero serve as delightful stopping points, featuring several inviting homestays ideal for travelers before they explore nearby coffee farms and historical churches.
14. Kibungo
For an off-the-beaten-path experience in Rwanda, consider visiting the small town of Kibungo.
Located in the east of the country, this provincial capital is home to a variety of higher education institutions, which fosters a vibrant atmosphere characterized by active shops and markets.
The area also offers a modest selection of accommodations, providing a convenient resting spot for travelers heading towards the southern Tanzanian border or the waters of Lake Muhazi to the northwest.
15. Gishwati Forest National Park
Situated atop hills adjacent to the beaches and resorts near Lake Kivu and Gisenyi, Gishwati Forest National Park is at the forefront of conservation efforts in Rwanda.
After a significant influx of refugees to remote regions during the genocide in the 1990s, the area faced substantial deforestation.
This devastation is still evident in the bare ridges and rolling meadows within the park.
Nevertheless, there are ongoing initiatives to restore the ecosystem, including plans to plant thousands of new trees by 2020. The reserve nonetheless remains stunning, featuring verdant highlands and forests inhabited by L’Hoest’s monkeys and chimpanzees!
