Things to Do in Rwanda – Africa’s Luxury Destination

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Rwanda is one of Africa’s most surprising and rewarding travel destinations. Known as the “Switzerland of Africa”, this small, landlocked country has transformed itself into a rising luxury travel destination in Africa. Rwanda is clean, safe, green, and organized, offering a refreshing contrast when crossing the border from its neighboring countries. Whether you’re looking for luxury, culture, or nature, Rwanda has it all.

From the vibrant capital of Kigali to gorilla trekking in the misty mountains, serene Lake Kivu, and adventures in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda offers a wide variety of experiences. It’s the perfect destination for first-time visitors to Africa as well as seasoned travelers looking for something unique.

One reason Rwanda feels so different from its neighbors is the government’s strong commitment to cleanliness and sustainability. Plastic bags are banned nationwide, and your luggage will be searched at the border to ensure you’re not bringing any in. Keep this in mind when packing your luggage! This environmental policy, combined with a culture of order and community spirit, makes traveling in Rwanda refreshingly stress-free.

Things to Do in Rwanda

 

1. Go Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

No Rwanda travel blog would be complete without mentioning gorilla trekking. This is the country’s most famous attraction, and for good reason. Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

While permits are more expensive here ($1,500 per person) compared to Uganda or DR Congo where I did the trek, Rwanda guarantees a safe, organized, and smooth trekking experience. The rangers are professional, and the infrastructure around the treks is very tourist-friendly.

If you’re short on time and want a hassle-free gorilla trekking adventure, Rwanda is the place to do it.

2. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is Rwanda’s other natural gem. This lush rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions in East Africa, home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and countless bird species.

In addition to trekking to see chimpanzees, you can also enjoy canopy walks, hiking trails, and bird-watching tours. If you love nature but want a less crowded experience than gorilla trekking, Nyungwe is a fantastic alternative.

3. Explore Kigali – Africa’s Cleanest Capital City

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is unlike any other city in Africa. In some neighborhoods, it feels more like Europe than Africa thanks to its modern infrastructure and tidy streets. Kigali is exceptionally clean and well-organized—so much so that you won’t see garbage lying around. The best way to get around is by hopping on a moto taxi like the locals do. Unlike in many other African countries, moto taxi drivers in Rwanda carry an extra helmet for passengers, making it both safe and convenient.

Some of the best things to do in Kigali include:

• Visiting Kimironko Market for a taste of local life

• Dining in stylish restaurants and cafés (Kigali has a surprisingly strong food scene!)

• Strolling through the city’s leafy neighborhoods with panoramic views

• Paying your respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and moving site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide and provides important insight into Rwanda’s history

Although Kigali doesn’t have dozens of tourist attractions, it’s a city that impresses with its atmosphere, safety, and charm.

4. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

Rwanda’s tragic past is something no visitor should overlook. Things haven’t always been as good as they are today, and the country carries a dark history. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful and moving place to learn about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, one of the darkest chapters in modern history. The exhibitions are very well presented and combine context with deeply personal stories.

It’s an emotional but important experience that gives you a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s incredible journey of healing, resilience, and rebuilding into the safe and welcoming country it is today.

5. Relax at Lake Kivu – Gisenyi

After trekking and city life, head to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The town of Gisenyi (Rubavu) is the perfect base, offering sandy beaches, resorts, and beautiful views.

Lake Kivu is also a popular stop for travelers heading to or from DR Congo, as Gisenyi sits right by the border.

Here you can:

• Swim or kayak on the lake

• Enjoy lakefront dining

• Relax at a resort beach with a cocktail in hand

  
  

Where to Stay in Rwanda

Where to Stay In Kigali

For the ultimate luxury experience, stay at Kigali Serena Hotel, a 5-star property in the heart of Kigali that’s often considered the city’s best hotel. The facilities include a beautiful outdoor pool, a relaxing spa, a fully equipped gym, an excellent restaurant and bar, and reliable high-speed Wi-Fi — something you’ll appreciate if you’ve been traveling around Africa.

👉 Check prices and availability for Kigali Serena Hotel on Booking.com

What I especially enjoyed was the gorgeous pool area — perfect for cooling off after a day in the city — and one of the biggest and best-equipped hotel gyms I’ve seen in Africa. Whether you want to swim, work out, or just relax, the hotel provides everything you need in one place.

The rooms are spacious and elegant, featuring comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and everything you’d expect from a high-end property. Many rooms also offer views over Kigali’s leafy hills.

What makes Kigali Serena especially appealing is the atmosphere — it’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. After exploring Kigali’s bustling streets or visiting the Genocide Memorial, you can return here to unwind with a swim, a spa treatment, or a cocktail by the pool.

If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and luxury all in one, Kigali Serena Hotel is the perfect choice for your stay in Rwanda’s capital.

👉 Check photos, reviews, and the latest prices on Booking.com.

Where to Stay At Lake Kivu (Gisenyi)

If you’ve already stayed at Serena Hotel in Kigali, the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel might feel slightly less luxurious, but it’s still by far the best option in the area. The property features a small but well-equipped gym, a pool area with a sundeck, a restaurant, and a lively bar. What I personally enjoyed the most was the private beach, where you can relax right by the shores of Lake Kivu. The location is excellent, and many rooms come with spectacular lake views straight from your balcony.

Just like the Kigali Serena, the Lake Kivu Serena also delivers when it comes to dining. The dinner was delicious, and the breakfast buffet was a real highlight — with plenty of tasty vegan options such as fresh juice, bread, beans, grilled tomatoes, potatoes, and fresh fruits.

If you’re visiting Lake Kivu and want comfort, good food, and the best location in town, Lake Kivu Serena is the perfect choice.

👉 Check more photos, reviews, and the latest availability on Booking.com.

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