Rwanda

Rwanda is small, mountainous and easy to travel, with mountain gorilla trekking in the Virungas, chimpanzees in Nyungwe forest and a clean, safe capital. Gorilla permits are expensive and capped, which shapes most itineraries. Roads are good and distances short, so a week covers a great deal.

Cities

Kigali

Kigali spreads over green hills and is notably orderly and safe, with a strong coffee scene and a growing arts sector. The Genocide Memorial is the essential visit and takes a careful half-day. It is the arrival point for every itinerary and two hours from the Virunga trailheads.

Musanze

Musanze sits below the Virunga volcanoes and is the base for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, as well as golden monkey tracking and volcano climbs. Lodges range from community-run guesthouses to some of the most expensive lodges in Africa. Permits must be bought well in advance.

Rubavu (Gisenyi)

Rubavu sits on the northern shore of Lake Kivu with sandy beaches, hot springs and a waterfront of old Belgian villas. It is the northern end of the Congo Nile Trail, which runs 227 km along the lake and can be cycled or walked in sections. The lake is bilharzia-free and safe to swim in.

When to go

See all seasons

• Long rains: Heavy rain, muddy trekking, discounted permits in some years.
• Long dry: Best trekking conditions, firm forest trails, peak season.
• Short dry: A second dry window, good for gorillas and chimps.

Entry & visas

Entry rules for this country aren't published here yet.

Always confirm entry rules with the official source before you book.