Rwanda is a lush country with a long history. It is located in East Africa and is bordered by the D.R Congo, Republic of Uganda, Burundi, and Republic of Tanzania. The country has a population of 14 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world considering its small size.

Its natural endowments include Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and the rift valley ranges, Mountain Muhabura, Rwanda’s twin lakes, Mount Karisimbi, Lake Ihema, and Akagera National Park. Tourism is the mainstay of Rwandan economy and it is estimated that in 2022, the country attracted over 1 million tourists. This is an increase from 500,000 tourists in 2010. The main attractions here mainly include culture and history of Rwanda, stunning scenery, the wildlife, and opportunity to learn about the tragic Rwandan Genocide.

• Foods and drinks in Rwanda

If you’re planning on taking a tour in Rwanda, one of the first things you’ll want to do is prepare for diverse food types! Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or just looking for something different, there’s a wide variety of foods to choose from in Rwanda.

The major food types in Rwanda are stews, soups and sauces. You can also find variety of meats, including chicken, beef, pork, and goat, as well as vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Some of the most popular drinks in Rwanda include coffee, tea and juice. You can also find a variety of beers and wines, as well as soft drinks. It is equally advisable to be aware of the different local foods. While it is tempting to try everything on a trip to a new country, it is important to be aware of food allergies and sensitivities of the locals. It is also important to be respectful of the environment, not littering, and using water resources sparingly.

• Culture in Rwanda.

Tourism in Rwanda is a booming industry and with good reason. The country is rich in culture and history and there are plenty of things to see and do. Cultures are mainly made of the Tutsi, Twa, and Hutu. These all have distinctions in their traditions, customs, entertainment, dress code and basic cultural organizations. Music, drama, folklore, dance, riddles, art, clothing fabrics, social organization, and crafts, are all distinct. However, it is important to beware of some of the cultural aspects of tourism in the country in order to avoid any potential misunderstandings.

One of the most important aspects of cultural tourism is respect. It is essential that tourists show respect for culture and people of Rwanda. This means not taking photos of people without their permission, wearing inappropriate clothing, and not making any loud or disruptive noises.

• Mountain Gorillas.

These are in Volcanoes National Park, located in the North-west frontier of Rwanda. It’s at the border point with D.R Congo, an area with flourishing ecosystem of Virunga conservation area. It also neighbors Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Volcanoes National Park is the central, and only area to visit mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Because of its location in the vast Virunga massif, the park has 5 of 8 volcanoes that make up Virunga ranges. Rwanda has the highest number of Virunga volcanoes, compared to other countries in the Virunga region.

• Golden monkeys.

Volcanoes National Park is the place to view these in Rwanda. They are strange primates only to be found in central and east Africa. They have very beautiful but unique body features that often interest tourists. Tourists shouldn’t miss visiting Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey adventure.

• Lake Kivu.

This lake is situated along the border of D.R Congo. It’s Rwanda’s largest natural lake and has numerous fascinating features such as calm waters, sand beaches, birds and tens of distinct wildlife that breed around it.

• Twin lakes of Rwanda.

On the low altitude areas of Mt. Sabyinyo, lies these twin lakes – Ruhondo and Burera. They are intertwined and pour their waters into each other’s basin. They are beautiful to watch.

• Big game mammals.

These are most present in savannah plains of Akagera National Park. The park is home to all the big five and other iconic animals like elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, zebras, and many more game mammals alike.

• Endless primates.

Besides mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Rwanda’s forest areas have numerous species of primates such as chimpanzees, blue monkeys, black and white monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons, colobus monkeys, and more.

• Virunga ranges.

These volcanoes are 5 in Rwanda including Muhabura, Gahinga, Bisoke, Sabyinyo and Karisimbi. As earlier noted, Virunga Volcanoes border with Volcanoes National Park, and have distinct features. They measure in unimaginable heights above sea level and their slopes have characteristics that have been important in creating a balance to the ecosystem.

• Genocide memorial centres.

There are many of these scattered all-over the major towns in Rwanda. They are mainly in form of museums and their main purpose is to pay tribute to lost lives during 1994 Rwanda genocide. some of these include Kigali Genocide memorial site, Nyamata genocide church, Ntarama genocide site, etc.

Rwanda is largely a beautiful safari destination, and there’s more of tourism attractions such as the food and clothing markets, art centres and museums, hotels, beaches and more.

What to do in Rwanda?

• Game drives.
• Mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences.
• Sport fishing.
• Golden monkey trekking.
• Canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest.
• Horse riding on the slopes of Mount. Kigali.
• Boat cruises.
• Hiking Virunga volcanoes.
• Cultural expeditions.
• Birding.
• Nature walks.
• Swimming.

How to get to Rwanda?

There are many ways to get to Rwanda. either by flying into Kigali or Kamembe airports, take a bus, or a boat. The best way to find out is to do some research and then book your trip. When you’re deciding where to go, you’ll want to consider climate as well. But it’s advisable to listen to a local company’s expert advice before making travel decision.

Best time to visit Rwanda.

Rwanda has four seasons. The dry season runs from June to September and December to February, and wet season from March to May, and September to November. There’s also a small monsoon season that runs from May to July. In order to get the most out of your Rwanda safari, it’s important to be prepared for all the seasons. This means packing clothes that can be worn in all seasons, packing your raincoat, and sunhat.