10 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda; Must-See Wildlife Spots
Best Places to Visit in Rwanda; Rwanda is a unique spot in Africa known for its famous Volcanoes National Park –UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient rainforests and wide savannahs. This makes it one of Africa’s most diverse and surprisingly compact Destinations of Afica. Explore our African Safari Packages to dive you into the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” whether you’re tracking endangered Gorillas in Africa or uncovering fascinating Facts about Rwanda.
You will experience the thrill of gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park (see best time to visit Rwanda gorillas) and meet chimpanzees in the Nyungwe’s Forest Canopy. You can also go on classic safaris to see the Big Five in Akagera and relax by the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu—linked with our picks for the best places to stay in Rwanda, each corner offers the Places to Visit in Rwanda for a fresh adventure.
Alongside the country’s wildlife, Rwanda’s vibrant culture shines through in Kigali’s spotless streets and memorials, the living traditions of Musanze’s Iby’Iwacu Village, community-led conservation at Umusambi and Red Rocks, and the terraced beauty of the Congo-Nile Trail—one of many unique things to do in Rwanda. Whether you’re looking for nature history or meaningful connections, Rwanda has got the best places to visit at every turn.
Mpenzi Safaris Africa brings you the top 10 Places to Visit in Rwanda for your African Safari Tours; each one showcasing the country’s culture wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Key Highlights of the Best Places to Visit in Rwanda
- Volcanoes National Park (mountain gorillas)
- Nyungwe Forest National Park (canopy walks & primates)
- Akagera National Park (savannah safaris & boat trips)
- Lake Kivu (water sports & scenic trails)
- Kigali (Genocide Memorial, art centers, cafés)
- Musanze & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (local traditions)
- Umusambi Village Conservancy (crane sanctuary)
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park (chimpanzee forest hikes)
- Nyanza (King’s Palace & Ethnographic Museum)
- Red Rocks Community & Cultural Centre (ethical tourism)
The 10 Best Places to Visit in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Trek and walk through the foggy forests of Volcanoes National Park to see endangered mountain gorillas living on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Places to visit in Rwanda: Stroll along ancient forest trails and walk across East Africa’s longest canopy walkway. Here you can spot chimpanzees colobus monkeys and over 300 types of birds in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Lake Kivu
Relax on the green shores of Rwanda’s largest lake. You can kayak bike along the beautiful Congo-Nile Trail or enjoy drinks at lakeside bars in Gisenyi and Karongi as the sun sets behind the misty hills.
Musanze & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
Stay in this lively town close to Volcanoes National Park then immerse yourself in local culture at Iby’Iwacu. You can dance with local performers try your hand at crafts and enjoy a meal with the community.
Kigali
Rwanda’s clean capital mixes modern life with history:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: A touching tribute and museum located in Gisozi.
- Inema Arts Center & Caplaki Crafts Village: Discover local art dance and handmade gifts.
- Rooftop cafés: Enjoy Rwandan coffee and views of the skyline
Umusambi Village Conservancy
Walk through restored wetlands to meet rescued grey-crowned cranes and learn about Rwanda’s important bird conservation efforts.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Visit two small but rich forests on the Congo-Nile watershed. You can track chimpanzees golden monkeys and many unique birds from the Albertine Rift. After your adventures relax at hidden waterfalls.
Nyanza (King’s Palace & Ethnographic Museum)
Discover Rwanda’s royal history at the King’s Palace which has a beehive-style roof. Close by the Ethnographic Museum in Huye showcases traditional artifacts and stories from the pre-colonial era.
Red Rocks Community & Cultural Centre
Get involved in community-focused tourism: learn how to weave baskets taste banana beer join a storytelling circle or camp with volcano views. Each of these activities helps the local community grow.
Congo-Nile Trail
Bike or hike along the hilly paths between Rubavu and Rusizi. Each turn offers stunning views of green lakes coffee farms and local village life.
Kigali Heights & Kimironko Market
Experience modern Rwanda by shopping for fresh produce and handmade goods at Kimironko Market. Then visit Kigali Heights for rooftop dining live music and local craft beers. This is one of the best places to visit in Rwanda
