Rwanda lies in East-Central Africa and spans up to 26338sq.km, which is approximately 10169sq.miles. Besides its dark history, Rwanda has a lot more for you to explore while on safari in Africa. It is a home to only 4 pristine national parks-Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park as well as several historical and cultural sites.
Below are some of the amazing things you shouldn’t miss in Rwanda.
Kigali city tour
Kigali city tour should be a must to include in your travel plan if you are visiting Rwanda this holiday. It is the best way for you to explore the hidden treasures in and around Kigali capital city, one of the most vibrant cities in Africa. Kigali city tour gets you a great opportunity to explore most of historical sites including the Kigali/Gisozi genocide memorial site, visit local markets, craft shops and many others.
Explore Rwanda’s history
The 1994 Rwandan genocide was one of the most horrific events Rwanda experienced. Today, it still rings in the minds of many. The Rwandan genocide claimed about a million lives and left many homeless. Currently, there are many genocide memorial sites for visitors to explore in depth about what took place at the time in Rwanda. There are documents, videos, photos, physical remnants of weapons that were used and others.
Get the best taste of Rwanda’s local food and drinks
A taste of Rwanda’s cuisines should be a must do while on safari if you are interested in unforgettable experiences. Rwanda’s food comprise of Matooke, potatoes, beans, sorghum. Most restaurants in Rwanda offer different cuisines and all visitors have something to enjoy.
Visit Kimironko market
Kimironko market has many plantations of fresh food, vegetables and fruits that can be spotted displayed on tables.
Game viewing
Rwanda offers you a chance not only to trek mountain gorillas or chimpanzees but also gets you opportunity to spot out huge concentration of wildlife in Akagera National Park. This park is remarkably the only savanna protected area that gets you a chance to catch a glimpse at varied savanna wildlife species including lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, birds, zebras, giraffes, antelopes and many others. At Akagera National Park, you can take part in game drives, night game drives, boat cruise, bird watching and others.
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking
A trip to Rwanda is complete when you include gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in your travel plan. Gorilla treks in Rwanda are conducted in Volcanoes National Park and to take part in this lifetime primate experience, you need $1500 to secure gorilla permit. For thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience, Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park should be a must to visit while you are on safari in Rwanda. To get the best of gorilla or chimpanzee trekking adventure, consider visiting Rwanda during the dry season. During this season, the habitat remains relatively dry making it a bit easier for one to hike through the dense rainforest and steep slopes while in search for these creatures in their habitat.
Bird watching
Rwanda is a home to not only mountain gorillas and chimpanzees but also a remarkable safari destination to spot out variety of bird species. Over 700 bird species call this magical country a home and there are many birding sites for you to realize your dream. The popular sites to go for bird watching in Rwanda include the four national parks-Volcanoes National Park where over 200 bird species are confined, Nyungwe Forest National Park to over 310 bird species, Akagera National Park a home to about 550 bird species and Gishwati Mukura National Park.
Other exciting things not to be missed in Rwanda include volcano hiking, golden monkey tracking, nature walks, cultural encounter at Iby’Iwacu cultural village to mention but a few.
