Top 10 destinations & adventure travel trips in Rwanda

Rwanda is a premier destination for adventure travel, best known for its unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest. Visitors can hike the dramatic slopes of the Virunga volcanoes, encounter the Big Five on safari in Akagera National Park, or kayak along the serene waters of Lake Kivu. Cultural immersion at Iby’iwacu Cultural Village further enriches the journey, blending wildlife, hiking, and history into a uniquely rewarding experience.

Here are the top 10 destinations and adventure travel trips in Rwanda:

1. Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla & Golden Monkey Trekking: Trek mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and track golden monkeys through bamboo forests.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking & Canopy Walk: Hike to find chimpanzees and walk high above the forest on the East African canopy walkway.

3. Akagera National Park – Big Five Safari: Game drives to see lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffalo, plus boat trips on Lake Ihema.

4. Mount Karisimbi – Hiking: A demanding two-day trek to the 4,507-meter summit, the highest peak in the Virunga range.

5. Lake Kivu – Kayaking & Cycling: Shoreline adventures including kayaking, boat trips to Napoleon Island, and the Congo Nile Trail for hiking and biking.

6. Mount Bisoke – Crater Hike: A 6–7 hour hike to a scenic crater lake at the summit, often passing the Dian Fossey gravesite.

7. Iby’iwacu Cultural Village – Cultural Experience: Traditional Intore dance, local crafts, and immersive heritage near the gorilla trekking region.

8. Kigali – City Tour & History: Explore the modern capital and reflect on history at the nearby Kigali Genocide Memorial.

9. King’s Palace Museum – Historical Dive: Learn about Rwanda’s royal heritage and traditional culture, including the Inyambo cattle.

10. Lake Muhazi – Recreation: Relax with canoeing, boat rides, and fishing in a peaceful lakeside setting near Kigali.

The tour is ideal for

The experience appeals to adventurous couples and wildlife all-rounders who enjoy diverse scenery and immersive nature. It is also ideal for photographers, primate enthusiasts, and return travelers seeking deeper exploration. Couples and honeymooners who value both adventure and relaxation will appreciate the balance of activities and downtime. Primate lovers and active travelers who enjoy walking safaris will find rich opportunities for close wildlife encounters, while culture-curious explorers can engage with local traditions. History lovers and cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the heritage dimensions of the journey, and travelers with limited time can still experience meaningful highlights in a compact format.