Top Tourist Activities in Rwanda – 2026 Travel Guide

Rwanda, famously known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, is one of Africa’s most beautiful and biodiverse destinations. From mist-covered volcanoes sheltering mountain gorillas to pristine rainforests alive with birds, waterfalls, and monkeys, Rwanda offers unmatched adventure, culture, and nature experiences.

Below is a detailed list of the top tourist activities in Rwanda for 2026, covering everything from gorilla trekking to city tours and cultural encounters.

1. Gorilla Tracking (Gorilla Trekking) – Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla tracking is Rwanda’s number one tourist activity and one of the most thrilling wildlife encounters in the world. It takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwestern part of the country. The park forms part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda) and Virunga National Park (DRC).

About Gorilla Tracking

The experience involves trekking through the dense montane forests of the Virunga Volcanoes in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors are guided by experienced ranger guides and trackers who monitor the daily movements of the gorilla families. The adventure begins early in the morning at the Kinigi Park Headquarters, where tourists gather at 7:00 a.m. for registration, briefing, and group allocation.

Each group is limited to eight visitors, and only ten gorilla families are open to tourism. Tracking can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movements and the terrain. Once the family is found, visitors are allowed one magical hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants as they feed, play, groom, and care for their young ones.

After completing the trek, tourists are awarded a gorilla tracking certificate a treasured memento of this life-changing adventure.

Gorilla Families Open for Visitors in Volcanoes National Park

1. Susa Group:
   The Susa Group is the largest and one of the most famous gorilla families in the park. It inhabits the higher slopes of Mount Karisimbi, making it the most challenging to track. It is well known for its twins, Byishimo and Impano, born five years ago.
2. Sabyinyo Group:
   Sabyinyo is the easiest family to track and one of the most popular with visitors. It consists of 17 members led by the dominant silverback Guhonda, one of the oldest and largest silverbacks in the park.
3. Amahoro Group:
   The Amahoro family, meaning “peace,” is made up of 19 members led by the calm and friendly silverback Ubumwe. Tracking this group involves a moderate climb, but the experience is very rewarding.
4. Agashya Group:
   Formerly known as Group 13, the Agashya family currently has 22 members. It was initially composed of 13 individuals, but thanks to successful conservation, the group has grown steadily.
5. Kwitonda Group:
   This group has 23 members and is led by Akarevuro. Originally habituated in the DRC, the group migrated to Rwanda. They tend to range far, which sometimes makes the trek more demanding.
6. Umubano Group:
   Comprising 13 members, the Umubano group split from the Amahoro group after internal disputes. It is led by the silverback Charles, known for his confidence and intelligence.
7. Hirwa Group:
   The Hirwa group, meaning “lucky one,” is led by Munyinya and has 18 members. The group has been growing over time, with some individuals joining from the Sabyinyo group.

The Volcanoes National Park Ecosystem

Volcanoes National Park is characterized by a mixture of montane forests, bamboo zones, alpine vegetation, swamps, and volcanic ranges. It encompasses five major volcanoes: Mount Karisimbi (4,507 m), Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Gahinga — each offering opportunities for hiking and scenic exploration.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking – Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee tracking is Rwanda’s second most popular primate adventure after gorilla trekking. It takes place in Nyungwe Forest National Park, a vast montane rainforest in southwestern Rwanda that harbors more than 500 chimpanzees.

Where to Track Chimpanzees

Chimp tracking is done in two main sections of Nyungwe: Cyamudongo Forest and Nyungwe Main Forest. Visitors can report to one of the three reception centers including Uwinka (main headquarters), Kitabi, or Gisakura for registration and briefing before the activity.

Tracking starts very early, usually at 4:30 a.m., when chimps are most active and vocal. The experience allows visitors to observe the playful behavior of the chimps from grooming to feeding, swinging in the trees, and social interactions that closely resemble human behavior.

Chimpanzee tracking offers one full hour of observation once the group is found. It’s an exhilarating, fast-paced experience filled with natural sounds, movement, and raw wilderness.

3. Golden Monkey Tracking – Volcanoes National Park

Golden Monkey Tracking is another unique primate adventure offered in Volcanoes National Park. These rare monkeys are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and are listed as endangered.

The tracking begins at Kinigi Park Headquarters with a briefing at 7:00 a.m. Visitors then hike into the bamboo forests at the base of the volcanoes, guided by rangers and trackers. Golden monkeys are playful, active, and photogenic, often leaping gracefully among the bamboo trees as they feed on shoots, fruits, and leaves.

The trek is easier than gorilla tracking, lasting about 2–4 hours with one hour of close interaction. It’s perfect for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, providing a light yet unforgettable wildlife encounter.

4. Canopy Walk – Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Canopy Walk is one of Africa’s most thrilling forest experiences, offering a bird’s-eye view of Nyungwe’s ancient rainforest. The 160-meter-long suspension bridge is suspended 60 meters above the forest floor, connecting massive trees and offering panoramic views of the canopy and distant hills.

The adventure begins at Uwinka Visitor Center, followed by a guided nature hike through the forest. Along the way, visitors can spot various bird species, butterflies, and monkeys before stepping onto the bridge for a breathtaking view of the green sea of treetops.

5. Hot Air Balloon Safari – Akagera National Park

For a unique perspective of Rwanda’s only savannah park, visitors can embark on a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Akagera National Park. The flight takes place at sunrise, offering stunning aerial views of lakes, wetlands, woodlands, and open plains.

From above, you can spot elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and even lions roaming freely. The experience lasts about one hour and ends with a celebratory bush breakfast a perfect blend of adventure and luxury.

6. Waterfall Hike – Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Isumo Waterfall Hike is one of the most scenic experiences in Nyungwe Forest. The 10-kilometer trail passes through tea plantations, fern-covered slopes, and rainforest paths before reaching the thunderous Isumo Waterfall.

Along the route, visitors encounter monkeys, exotic birds, and beautiful vegetation. The hike takes about 3–4 hours roundtrip, offering nature lovers an opportunity to connect deeply with Rwanda’s pristine forest environment.

7. Game Drives – Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park offers classic African game drives through its open savannah and woodland landscapes. It’s home to the Big Five including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes — as well as giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species.

Morning and evening game drives provide the best chances of spotting wildlife, while night drives reveal nocturnal animals such as civets, hyenas, and bush babies.

8. Boat Cruise – Akagera & Lake Kivu

Boat cruises are a serene way to explore Rwanda’s natural beauty.

• Lake Ihema Boat Cruise (Akagera): Offers sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds like fish eagles and herons.
• Lake Kivu Cruise: Perfect for relaxation, island visits, and watching fishermen at sunset.

These cruises provide stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful contrast to the excitement of game drives and treks.

9. Colobus Monkey Tracking – Nyungwe Forest

Colobus monkey tracking allows visitors to observe large troops of Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys in Nyungwe Forest. These elegant primates, with their long white tails and silky coats, live in large groups often exceeding 300 individuals.

The activity starts from the Gisakura reception center and lasts 2–3 hours, offering wonderful photographic opportunities.

10. Coffee Tour

Rwanda produces some of the world’s best Arabica coffee, grown in volcanic soils around Lake Kivu and Huye. Coffee tours allow visitors to witness the entire production process from planting and harvesting to roasting and tasting.

Local farmers share stories about their work, offering visitors a cultural and educational experience that ends with sampling freshly brewed Rwandan coffee.

11. Tea Plantation Visit

Rwanda’s rolling highlands are carpeted with lush tea plantations. Visitors can tour estates such as Gisakura Tea Estate near Nyungwe Forest, learning about the picking and processing of tea leaves.

The walk through the plantations provides incredible photo opportunities and a taste of rural life, capped with a fresh cup of aromatic Rwandan tea.

12. Kigali City Tour

A Kigali City Tour offers a blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Highlights include:

• Kigali Genocide Memorial – a moving tribute to Rwanda’s history.
• Inema Arts Center – showcasing local art and creativity.
• Kimironko Market – for colorful local crafts and produce.
• Presidential Palace Museum – for a glimpse into Rwanda’s political past.

Kigali is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest capitals, offering a welcoming introduction to Rwandan hospitality.

13. Nature Walks

Guided nature walks are available in Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Akagera National Parks. These immersive walks allow travelers to learn about medicinal plants, spot birds, and enjoy the serenity of Rwanda’s natural environment.

14. Visit to the Tomb of Dian Fossey

The Dian Fossey Grave Hike pays tribute to the legendary primatologist who dedicated her life to protecting mountain gorillas. The hike to her grave and former research camp takes about 3–4 hours and offers breathtaking views of forested slopes and wildlife.

15. Mountain Hiking

Rwanda’s volcanic region offers some of Africa’s most rewarding hikes:

• Mount Karisimbi (4,507m) – a two-day trek with camping at high altitude.
• Mount Bisoke – features a stunning crater lake at the summit.
• Mount Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo – moderate day hikes with incredible views of the Virunga range.

16. Cave Visit – Musanze Caves

The Musanze Caves, formed over 65 million years ago by volcanic activity, stretch for about 2 kilometers. Guided tours explore their vast tunnels and chambers, rich with history and geology.

17. Camping

Camping allows nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves fully in Rwanda’s wilderness. Campsites are available in Akagera, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe, offering simple facilities and unforgettable nights under the African stars.

18. Iby’Iwacu Cultural Visit

The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village) is located near Volcanoes National Park. Here, former poachers turned conservationists share Rwandan traditions through music, dance, storytelling, and craft-making.

It’s a meaningful cultural exchange that supports community development and wildlife protection.

19. Spot Fishing

Fishing in Lake Kivu and the lakes of Akagera provides a relaxing outdoor activity. Visitors can fish alongside locals using traditional techniques or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

20. Bird Watching / Birding

Rwanda is a birding paradise with over 700 species, including Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and Red-collared Mountain Babbler.
Top birding destinations include Nyungwe Forest, Akagera, Rugezi Marsh, and Volcanoes National Park.