If you’re planning a trip to Rwanda and have a taste for adventure, you’ll be spoiled for choice. This small, yet diverse country offers a stunning variety of pulse-quickening outdoor activities.
There’s no better eco-friendly way to experience Rwanda’s wild beauty than on foot or from a bike saddle. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy paddling in the country’s lakes and rivers, while the spectacular caves beckon for exploration. Moreover, if after all that exercise you want to recharge, Rwanda has inviting stretches of white sand awaiting you.
Cycling along the Congo Nile Trail
For an exhilarating biking experience, nothing beats the Congo Nile Trail (CNT). This off-the-beaten-path cycling and hiking itinerary runs along the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes, in western Rwanda.
Launched in 2009, the CNT encompasses a network of interconnected rural paths and dirt roads that stretch approximately 140 miles (227km) from Gisenyi to Kamembe. Cyclists can complete the ride in about five days, navigating through rolling hills and lush coffee plantations, while taking in phenomenal lake views.
Aside from cycling, the trail offers opportunities to engage with locals through traditional activities such as craft making and honey harvesting, enhancing the experience.
The icing on the cake: hidden beaches along the way invite you to take a dip. The lake is safe to swim in, free of dangerous wildlife like hippos or crocodiles, making it the perfect place to refresh after a day of biking.
Although you can tackle the Congo Nile Trail on your own, a guide is invaluable. Specialist operators provide well-maintained bikes, including e-bikes, and qualified guides. While you need to be reasonably fit, the trail accommodates varying skill levels.
Accommodation options along the route are varied, ranging from camping to homestays, guesthouses, and small lodges. Meals consist of fresh, delicious food prepared by locals, with village shops offering snacks and water.
Volcanoes and Caves
For many travelers, Musanze (Ruhengeri), and nearby Kinigi, serve as staging points for exploring the magnificent Volcanoes National Park, one of East Africa’s premier spots for mountain gorilla tracking. This area is not only rich in wildlife but is also home to spectacular caves formed by ancient lava flows.
Bat roosts and stunning light shafts illuminate these caves, creating an incredible photographic opportunity. While exploration is open to all, a guide is required for safety.
After the caves, for those still seeking adventure, Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera await. Surrounded by terraced farmland and small villages, these breathtaking lakes are accessible via dirt roads and offer a sense of tranquility away from heavy tourism.
Walking on a Canopy
For a unique experience, visitors can traverse the canopy walkway suspended above a ravine in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Stretching 500 feet (160m) long and towering at times 230 feet (70m), this walkway ranks among the most breathtaking globally.
This exciting adventure provides a different perspective on the jungle below, with stunning views, butterflies, orchids, and colorful birds enriching the hike.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu stands as Rwanda’s largest body of water and offers a fantastic playground for those seeking outdoor experiences. For those less inclined to relax on the beach at Gisenyi, kayaking allows for the exploration of clear blue waters along scenic shores.
The lake features sandy inlets perfect for relaxation and birdwatching. It’s completely safe for paddling — no hippos or crocodiles lurking here! Glide quietly across the tranquil waters and enjoy breathtaking views with the backdrop of volcanic mountains.
Visitors can also interact with local fishermen as they practice rhythmic paddling in their traditional wooden boats — a memorable experience.
Climbing the Volcanoes in the Virungas
West of Rwanda, the unforgettable summits of the Volcanoes National Park represent a must-see destination. While the area is renowned for its gorilla-watching, it also provides numerous rewarding climbing and trekking options. Popular options include Karisimbi, Bisoke Crater Lake, Gahinga, and several others, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.
As you ascend, the rich diversity of vegetation transitions from thick bamboo forests to stunning alpine meadows. Along the trails, active wildlife observation opportunities abound — from bushbucks to various birds dwelling in the lush surroundings.
