Holidaymakers from across the globe flock to Rwanda to witness the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat but there is so much more to see and experience here. In addition to the world’s largest living primates, it’s home to many iconic species of wildlife and when you are in Rwanda, you will find the locals warm and friendly, where creativity is celebrated through traditional dance, unique architecture and art. It’s also one of the best destinations in East Africa for adventure-lovers and with incredible natural beauty, it’s impossible to not fall in love with this country. Here are a few of the best things to see and do in the exquisite ‘land of a thousand hills’.
Led by expert trackers, your journey to view the majestic mountain gorillas will take you up bamboo-covered slopes where you will spend precious moments just a few feet away from these gentle creatures. While this can only be described as life changing, Rwanda’s volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains are bursting with wildlife. Primate tracking here is an absolute delight, in addition to gorilla trekking, the country is famous for its abundance of primates, from chimpanzees to colobus, golden, L’Hoest’s, owl faced, Dent’s, blue and vervet – alongside olive baboons as well as the nocturnal potto and bushbabies. Rwanda also has a vast savannah teeming with iconic wildlife so you can also see the famous Big Five in Rwanda’s spectacular Akagera National Park.
From volcano hiking and caving to kayaking and cycling Rwanda’s epic scenery, deliciously warm climate and magnificent wildlife make the land a remarkable place for adventure. The Nyungwe National Park is home to the Canopy Walkway which is a must-see attraction if you are taking the guided Igishigishigi trail, or hiking the Imbaraga or Umuyove trails. You’ll see countless butterflies, orchids and colourful birds while you are suspended over the ancient treetops of the lush montane rainforest and in addition to awe-inspiring vistas, thirteen species of primate also live in Nyungwe, so you might be lucky enough to have an exhilarating wildlife encounter. Set against a lush mountainous backdrop the coastline of Lake Kivu is ideal for a spot of kayaking where you can soak up the spectacular scenery and immerse yourself in sheer tranquillity. With almost endless trails and roads criss-crossing the country heading off-the-beaten-track by bike is another amazing way to explore the natural scenic beauty of Rwanda’s countryside.
If you are looking to learn more about the history and culture of Rwanda, the Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda Art Museum and the Kigale Genocide Memorial should all be on your itinerary while a visit to the Kigali Cultural Village should not be missed. This traditional market space is where local artisans & food vendors exhibit and trade their goods as well as hosting events, workshops, festivals and music.
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the local heritage, The Kings Palace in Nyanza is a symbol of the cultural and historical legacy of Rwanda’s monarchy and one of Rwanda’s most significant cultural attractions. The carefully reconstructed thatched, beehive structure offers the unique opportunity to learn more about Rwanda’s royal history spanning from the 15th century until the monarchy’s dissolution in 1961. With a blend of traditional and colonial architecture, as well as captivating cultural performances, you’ll also get to see the celebrated Ankole cattle with their iconic long horns. Called ‘Inyambo’ they are bred for only ceremonial purposes — not milk or meat, like most cattle. The museum’s herd of 15 cows, each adorned in jewellery and ribbons, stand as symbols of their longstanding significance in Rwandan culture and history. In fact, they are so revered it is a tradition for the keepers sing to the cattle, and with a dedicated veterinarian on call 24 hours a day, these cows have the best possible care.
Experiencing the tradition of dance is a true spectacle in Rwanda and can only be described as thrilling. Intore Dancing was originally performed exclusively for the Royal Court by the Intore (The Chosen Ones), these dancers were given military training and taught the technique of jumping which forms a significant part of the dance. Performed wearing grass wigs and clutching spears these live dance performances can be enjoyed at cultural villages, museums and as entertainment at many lodges and hotels across Rwanda.
Tea and coffee are one of the country’s largest exports and plantation tours take place in a variety of locations across Rwanda where you can learn how the local tea and coffee is harvested and processed, with the opportunity to taste the results. Thanks to the high altitude of the growing slopes, Rwandan tea is rich, bold and full of flavour while the majority of local coffee beans are the high quality Arabica varietal Bourbon, with a silky creamy body and hints of lemon and orange blossom, and caramel in the aftertaste. The tea and coffee plantations offer the chance to marvel at some of the country’s most beautiful vistas, with shimmering green coffee-covered hillsides that turn cherry red when the harvest is ready and the rich, verdant undulating tea plantations set against the striking backdrop of blue skies and sunshine. It’s important to note that tours are only available through tour operators, as plantations don’t liaise directly with tourists.
Before you leave the ‘land of a thousand hills’ you’ll find a cornucopia of local crafts to take home with you. Using traditional Batwa techniques pottery is one of the oldest art forms in Rwanda and can still be found in many towns today. Weaving and basket making is also a traditional art and woven items called ‘peace pots’ are still used today to commemorate weddings or given as welcome gifts. The most distinctive Rwandan craft is the Imigongo paintings made with cow dung which can be purchased in local craft markets throughout the country. One thing’s for sure, you are guaranteed to find the perfect souvenirs to remember your time here.
As guardians of many iconic wildlife species, Rwanda is committed to safeguarding their existence within its four National Parks and ten percent of the income derived from gorilla, safari and other tourist permits, as well as park fees, is spent in partnership with local communities to change lives for the better. If you are seeking wildlife, adventure, culture, and natural beauty Rwanda is guaranteed to touch your heart and soul. If you are ready to add it to your holiday bucket list give us a call on UK 01233 80 27 27 or visit our website www.bestofsouthafricatravel.co.uk
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Best holiday EVER!
Hi Ash, all back safe and sound, and well, here’s the thing... Andy says it was his best holiday EVER! And what he loved was that there was always something next on the agenda to look forward to...
Andy’s parents were blown away by the whole experience and will no doubt be repeat customers at least once - You are …
