Overview

Rwanda – The Land of a Thousand Hills

Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda is a country of emerald-green landscapes, mist-shrouded mountains and deeply moving wildlife encounters. Compact and wonderfully diverse, it offers an extraordinary journey through forests, savannahs, lakes and vibrant cities.
 
The country’s most iconic experience is trekking through Volcanoes National Park to meet endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Watching a gorilla family interact at close quarters is an intimate and unforgettable privilege. Nearby, golden monkeys leap through the bamboo forests beneath the dramatic peaks of the Virunga Mountains.
 
In the south, ancient Nyungwe Forest is home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and spectacular canopy walks. To the east, Akagera National Park offers classic Big Five safaris among rolling plains, wetlands and lakes, while the shores of Lake Kivu provide a peaceful place to pause between adventures.
Rwanda’s temperate climate makes it an inviting year-round destination, but it is the warmth of its people, the quality of its guiding and the country’s inspiring story of renewal that leave the most lasting impression. This is a destination that surprises, moves and stays with you long after you return home.
 

Location

Where is Rwanda?

Rwanda is a small, landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Located just south of the equator, it is known for its compact size and scenic, hilly landscapes, making it easy to explore within a relatively short distance.

  • Flight time: Approx. 8–9 hours direct from the UK

  • Time difference: GMT +2

  • Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF)

  • Language: Kinyarwanda, English, French and Swahili are official languages

  • Travel advice: Visit the UK Government Rwanda Advice website.

Rwanda
Kigali
Volcanoes National Park
Nyungwe Forest & Lake Kivu
Akagera National Park

where & when

When is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda?

Rwanda can be visited year-round, with a mild climate and comfortable temperatures throughout. The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are considered the best times to visit, particularly for gorilla trekking, as conditions are drier and trails are easier to navigate.

The wetter months from March to May and October to November bring lush, vibrant landscapes and fewer visitors. While trekking can be more challenging, this is a beautiful time for photography and enjoying Rwanda’s rich greenery and birdlife.

within Rwanda

Key Regions of Rwanda

Kigali

Rwanda’s capital is a vibrant and welcoming city, known for its cleanliness, safety and growing cultural scene. Often the starting point for any journey, Kigali offers a blend of modern energy and poignant history, with highlights including the Kigali Genocide Memorial. With excellent restaurants, boutique hotels and a relaxed atmosphere, it provides a thoughtful introduction to the country.

Volcanoes National Park (Northern Province)

Set against a backdrop of mist-covered volcanic peaks, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s most iconic destination and home to the endangered mountain gorilla. Trekking through dense forest to spend time with a habituated gorilla family is a truly profound and unforgettable experience. Beyond gorillas, the park also offers golden monkey tracking and scenic hiking, all within one of Africa’s most striking landscapes.

Nyungwe Forest & Lake Kivu (Western Province)

Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, rich in biodiversity and home to chimpanzees and a variety of primate species. Guided treks through the forest offer an immersive experience, while the canopy walkway provides a unique perspective high above the treetops. Nearby, Lake Kivu offers a peaceful contrast, with scenic shores, relaxed lakeside lodges and opportunities to unwind after time in the forest.

Akagera National Park (Eastern Province)

Akagera offers a classic savannah safari experience in a beautifully varied landscape of rolling plains, lakes and wetlands. Home to the Big Five, the park provides rewarding game viewing with a sense of space and tranquillity. Boat safaris along Lake Ihema add a different dimension, with hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife thriving in this restored and carefully protected ecosystem.

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