Top 10 things to do in Rwanda besides gorilla trekking: As a tour company specializing in safaris and adventures in Rwanda, we understand that while Rwanda gorilla trekking is a highlight of any trip to Rwanda, it is not the only thing this beautiful country has to offer. Rwanda is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. In this article, we will share with you the top things to do in Rwanda besides gorilla trekking.
#1 Visit the Genocide Memorial.
The 1994 Rwandan Genocide is a significant part of the country’s history, and visiting the Genocide Memorial in Kigali is a must-do for anyone interested in learning about this tragic event. The memorial is a solemn and moving place that honors the victims of the genocide. It is a place to learn about the genocide’s causes and consequences and to reflect on the importance of peace and reconciliation.
#2 Explore Kigali City.
Kigali is Rwanda’s capital city and a vibrant and bustling hub of activity. It is a modern city with excellent infrastructure and plenty of things to see and do. Some of the highlights of Kigali include the colorful markets, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Kandt House Museum, and the Kimironko Market. Kigali also has plenty of excellent restaurants and bars, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
#3 Visit Lake Kivu.
Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest freshwater lake and a beautiful place to visit. The lake is surrounded by lush hills and mountains and offers stunning views. There are plenty of activities to do on and around the lake, including kayaking, swimming, and boat tours. Gisenyi is a popular town on the lake’s shores, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and bars.
#4 Hike Mount Bisoke.
Mount Bisoke is an active volcano that is part of the Virunga Mountains. Hiking to the top of Mount Bisoke is a challenging but rewarding experience. The hike takes you through beautiful rainforest, and the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the crater lake at the top of the mountain.
#5 Visit Nyungwe National Park.
Nyungwe National Park is a vast and pristine rain-forest in southwestern Rwanda. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. The park has several hiking trails, and visitors can also go on guided walks with park rangers to see the forest’s inhabitants up close.
#6 Experience Traditional Rwandan Culture.
Rwanda is a country with a rich and vibrant culture, and experiencing it is a must-do for any visitor. There are several cultural centers and museums in Rwanda where visitors can learn about traditional Rwandan culture, including the Inema Arts Center in Kigali, the National Museum of Rwanda in Butare, and the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in Musanze.
#7 Go on a Coffee Tour.
Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee, and going on a coffee tour is a fun and educational experience. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process, from growing the beans to roasting and brewing them. Some of the best places to go on a coffee tour include the Gishwati-Mukura National Park and the Huye Mountain Coffee Estate.
#8 Visit Akagera National Park.
Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah national park, and it is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions. The park offers several safari experiences, including guided game drives and boat tours on Lake Ihema.
#9 Take a Rwandan Cooking Class.
Rwandan cuisine is a delicious and unique blend of African, European, and Asian influences, and taking a cooking class is an excellent way to learn about the country’s culinary traditions. Visitors can learn how to make traditional Rwandan dishes like matoke, plantains wrapped in banana leaves, and brochette, skewered meat grilled over charcoal. Some of the best places to take a cooking class include the Rwanda Tourism University College and the Nyamirambo Women’s Center in Kigali.
#10 Relax at a Spa.
After a long day of exploring, there is nothing better than relaxing at a spa. Rwanda has several excellent spas that offer a range of treatments, from massages to facials to aromatherapy. Some of the best spas in Rwanda include the Serena Spa in Kigali and the One&Only Spa at Nyungwe House.
In conclusion, while gorilla trekking is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to Rwanda, there are plenty of other things to see and do in this beautiful country like the top 10 things to do in rwanda besides gorilla trekking we have listed above. From visiting the Genocide Memorial to hiking Mount Bisoke to experiencing traditional Rwandan culture, there is something for everyone in Rwanda. As a tour company specializing in safaris and adventures in Rwanda, we are committed to helping visitors make the most of their time in this incredible country.
