Right Now

Rwanda offers a surprising variety of stunning sights: the low rolling green mountains in the center of the country have lent Rwanda the nickname “land of a thousand hills,” and roads radiating out from the capital of Kigali lead in just a few hours to widely differing experiences.

While most of what the international public knows of Rwanda is reflective of the country’s darker days, Rwanda has made significant progress and achieved a political and societal cohesion that required a great deal of work, effort, and heart. Come and explore “the land of a thousand hills,” and experience Rwanda’s fascinating culture, history, and scenery.

The Top 5: What to Do in Rwanda

1. Volcano National Park: Only in Rwanda can you combine two awesome activities: gorilla trekking and volcano exploration. Six volcanoes, located in the Virunga valley, are situated amid sites where the country’s famous mountain gorillas live and thrive.

2. Kigali: This vibrant commercial center, the country’s capital, offers plenty in the way of open-air markets, walking tours, and history-focused museums and memorials. Plan to spend at least two days exploring this rising metropolis.

3. Rwanda’s Lakes: Have a magnificent beach day and visit Lake Kivu, the largest freshwater lake in Rwanda. Enjoy water sports, local fun, and even a boat ride along the western shoreline via the towns of either Kibuye or Gisenyi.

4. Primate Tour: The forests of Rwanda provide plenty of opportunities for animal investigation. We highly recommend finding a guide to take you around, as maps are not always readily available or accurate.

5. National Museum: Showcasing important historical and cultural landmarks of the country, this museum, located in the southern town of Butare (now called “Huye”), also offers live traditional music.

When to Go

The weather in Rwanda is fairly stable all year long, with the exception of the upper slopes, which tend to be cooler. The temperature is usually around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.7 degrees Celsius) during the day and 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 degrees Celsius) by night.
 
While the sun can be quite strong during Rwanda’s dry seasons due to high altitude, the rainy seasons (roughly April through May and October through December) offer some welcome and cool relief for those who do not mind waiting out a brief downpour every day or two. The best time for gorilla trekking is between July and September, when the land tends to be dryer.
 
For up-to-date city activities and exciting events, check out the Rwanda Tourism website.