If you’re bound for Rwanda and crave adventure and outdoor pursuits, you’re in for a treat. Despite its size, this small country offers an astonishing array of heart-pounding adventure options, we’ll explore these in this Rwanda travel guide.
For an eco-friendly immersion in Rwanda’s untamed landscapes, there’s no better way than exploring on foot or from the saddle of a bike. Navigate rivers and lakes for a paddling experience or delve into intriguing caves. And for those moments when you need to recharge after all the activities, a couple of serene expanses of white sand await.
Caves and volcanos in Rwanda
Venturing into Musanze (Ruhengeri) and nearby Kinigi serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the magnificent Volcanoes National Park, renowned as one of East Africa’s premier destinations for tracking mountain gorillas. Positioned near these towns are captivating natural wonders, including spectacular caves located just over a mile (2 km) from the town centre along the road to Gisenyi. Formed by the merging of different lava flows that shaped the Albertine Rift Valley, these caves feature notable bat roosts and expansive roof collapses, creating stunning arrays of coloured light shafts that are remarkably photogenic. Exploring these caves doesn’t require superhero abilities, but a guide is essential for the journey, it’s also wise to check Rwanda travel requirements beforehand.
For those still brimming with energy, a visit to Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, located on the outskirts of Musanze, is highly recommended. These two sizable lakes are surrounded by small villages accessible through a network of dirt roads. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, with terraced shores cultivated with crops and the imposing Virunga volcanoes looming ominously in the distance. While Ruhondo and Burera may lack typical tourist infrastructure, adventurous travellers can easily create their own experience here, especially with personal transportation or a penchant for walking. Arranging a lake trip with a local fisherman is also feasible for those seeking a do-it-yourself adventure.
Cycle along the Congo Nile Trail
Embark on an exhilarating, secure biking adventure along the Congo Nile Trail (CNT) for an unparalleled experience. Located far from the typical tourist routes, the CNT encompasses both cycling and hiking paths along the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s magnificent lakes, in the western region of Rwanda. Established in 2009, this trail weaves through the tropical Kivu Region’s interconnected rural paths, dirt roads, and drivable tracks. This travel to Rwanda can be completed in about five days, spanning approximately 140 miles (227 km) from Gisenyi to Kamembe.
Anticipate a distinctive adventure amid undulating hills, expansive coffee plantations, and captivating tropical forests, offering breathtaking views of the lake. Beyond cycling, the trail provides an excellent opportunity to engage with locals and partake in traditional activities such as craft making, honey harvesting, visits to tea or coffee estates, or joining local fishermen during their night fishing expeditions for sambaza (small fish).
Adding to the allure is the availability of numerous secluded beaches along the route, offering the perfect opportunity for a refreshing dip. Lake Kivu boasts a lack of dangerous animals, such as hippos and crocs, ensuring a safe and highly recommended beach experience after a day of biking the trail.
While it’s possible to tackle the Congo Nile Trail independently, having a guide proves invaluable. For a seamless experience, consider reaching out to the specialised operator. While iron thighs aren’t a prerequisite, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended before embarking on the trail.
Accommodations along the route vary, providing options to suit different preferences. Guides can arrange camping for those inclined, but if tents or campsites aren’t your preference, homestays, guesthouses, and small lodges are available. When it comes to meals, relish fresh and delightful local cuisine prepared by residents. Many villages also have shops where you can purchase snacks, fruits, and water, ensuring you’re well-equipped for the journey.
Kayak on Lake Kivu
Embrace the vast playground of Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest body of water, with an exhilarating kayaking adventure. If lounging on the beach in the bustling resort town of Gisenyi loses its charm, embark on a kayak excursion to navigate the crystal-clear blue waters that gently lap against the picturesque shores of the lake.
Discover sandy inlets along the way, offering perfect spots to pause and unwind while observing a variety of bird species flitting in and out of the surrounding bushes. Rest assured, paddling on Lake Kivu is incredibly safe, with no hippos or crocs to worry about. Drift in tranquillity on the serene waters, feeling the gentle caress of the breeze against your skin, all while the volcanic mountains provide a stunning backdrop.
This kayaking adventure also presents a unique chance to engage with the local fisherfolk aboard their splendid traditional wooden boats. You might even hear their rhythmic singing as they paddle in unison – an unforgettable experience. On a day trip, explore small islands and indulge in a lakeside picnic. For a more immersive experience, opt for an overnight adventure, camping on an uninhabited island – an ideal Rwanda-style Robinson Crusoe experience.
Climb the Virungas volcanos
Heading west in Rwanda, the iconic summits of the Volcanoes National Park stand as an absolute must-see. While renowned worldwide for gorilla-watching, the park offers a diverse range of rewarding climbing and trekking options. Some notable choices include Karisimbi (14,000 ft; 4507m; two days), Bisoke Crater Lake (seven hours return), Ngezi (three hours return), Dian Fossey’s Grave (five hours return), Gahinga (11,000 ft; 3474m; eight hours return), and Muhabura (13,500 ft; 4127m; nine hours return).
Ascending these peaks takes you through remarkable changes in vegetation, transitioning from dense bamboo and giant lobelia or hagenia forests to alpine meadows. Weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across the mountain chain.
Various trekking possibilities exist for reaching the summits of the volcanoes, ranging from several hours to two days. A guide is mandatory and included in your trekking fee, while additional porters are optional.
One of the highlights of climbing and trekking in the park is the ample opportunities to observe wildlife (excluding gorillas and golden monkeys). Common herbivores include bushbucks and black-fronted duikers, with buffaloes, bush pigs, and giant forest hogs occasionally spotted. Keep an eye on tree hollows for hyraxes, genets, dormice, squirrels, and forest pouched rats. The Hagenia forests, in particular, provide rich birdwatching opportunities, featuring turaco, francolins, sunbirds, waxbills, crimson wings, and various hawks and buzzards.
Walk on a canopy
Elevated above a ravine within the verdant montane rainforest of Nyungwe Forest National Park, you’ll encounter the jungle from an extraordinary vantage point akin to that of a monkey. This remarkable canopy walkway, stretching 500 feet (160m) and reaching heights of up to 230 feet (70m) at times, stands as one of the world’s most breathtaking constructions of its kind, captivating visitors seeking an unconventional experience.
Accessed after a brief 30-minute ascent, the canopy walk offers unforgettable views of the surrounding forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter an array of butterflies, vibrant orchids, and colourful birds, enhancing the overall enchantment of this unique adventure.
