Rwanda is a country of stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, lush forests, volcanoes, and serene lakes. While mountain gorillas are the main attraction, visitors should not miss the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Located in Musanze, in northern Rwanda, these lakes were formed by volcanic activity when Mount Sabyinyo erupted, blocking the Nyabarongo River and creating the two freshwater bodies.
Lake Kivu, part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, is one of Rwanda’s most spectacular natural attractions. Covering a surface area of 2,700 km², it is Rwanda’s largest lake and the sixth largest in Africa. Surrounded by towering mountains and deep green waters, Lake Kivu offers a combination of serenity, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an essential stop for any Rwanda safari or eco-tourism itinerary.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and largest mountain rainforests, offering unparalleled biodiversity, primate encounters, and natural beauty. Located in south-western Rwanda, this special mountainous region is also the furthest source of the River Nile, making it both ecologically and historically significant.
Gishwati Mukura National Park, Rwanda’s fourth national park, is a unique conservation area made up of two distinct forests: the larger Gishwati Forest and the smaller Mukura Forest, covering a total of 34 square kilometers plus a surrounding buffer zone.
Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda offers a unique combination of savannah, woodland, wetlands, and over a dozen scenic lakes, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable African safaris. In partnership with African Parks, Akagera is being developed into a world-class destination for wildlife enthusiasts and safari travelers.
The original inhabitants of Rwanda were the Batwa, an indigenous forest-dwelling people traditionally living as hunter-gatherers. Today, the Batwa represent less than 1% of Rwanda’s population and are mainly found in northern regions of the country. Despite their small numbers, they remain an important part of Rwanda’s cultural and historical heritage.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as Rwanda’s most important site of remembrance for the Genocide against the Tutsi, and a global center for peace education and genocide prevention. Developed through a collaboration between Rwandan authorities and the Aegis Trust for Genocide Prevention, the Memorial reflects Rwanda’s journey from tragedy to reconciliation.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa and a top reason travelers visit Rwanda. Located in the northwestern part of the country, Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, offering visitors a rare opportunity to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
