Beyond Gorillas – What Else to See and Do in Rwanda

While gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Rwanda has much more to offer beyond the rainforest. This small but stunning country is rich in culture, natural beauty and history, making it a rewarding destination in its own right. Whether you’re staying on after a trek or planning a broader itinerary, here are some of the best things to see and do in Rwanda.

Lake Kivu – Relaxation on the Water’s Edge

After the exertion of gorilla trekking, few places are more welcoming than the shores of Lake Kivu. One of Africa’s Great Lakes, it forms part of Rwanda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The resort towns of Gisenyi and Kibuye are ideal for lakeside relaxation, offering sandy beaches, kayaking, boat trips and swimming in calm, bilharzia-free waters.

Take a sunset cruise, sample local fish dishes, or simply unwind at one of the peaceful waterfront lodges – Lake Kivu is the perfect place to slow down and reflect.

Kigali – A Capital with Character

Rwanda’s capital city is often a pleasant surprise for first-time visitors. Clean, safe and remarkably green, Kigali is more than just a stopover. Spend time exploring the city’s thriving arts and café scene, visit local craft markets, and enjoy contemporary Rwandan cuisine at restaurants such as Heaven or The Hut.

A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is essential for understanding Rwanda’s recent past. Thoughtful and moving, it provides crucial context for the country’s remarkable recovery and ongoing journey of reconciliation.

Nyungwe Forest National Park – Primate Encounters and Canopy Walks

If you’re inspired by Rwanda’s natural beauty and biodiversity, consider a visit to Nyungwe Forest in the southwest. One of Africa’s oldest rainforests, Nyungwe is home to thirteen primate species including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.

Guided treks offer the chance to see these primates in the wild, while the park’s famous canopy walkway – suspended 50 metres above the forest floor – provides a unique perspective of the treetops and birdlife.

Akagera National Park – A Classic Safari Experience

For a more traditional African safari, head east to Akagera National Park. Once heavily depleted, Akagera has been impressively restored and is now home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and hundreds of bird species.

Game drives, boat safaris and guided nature walks offer varied ways to experience the park’s mix of savannah, wetland and woodland habitats. It’s an ideal complement to the mountain forests of Volcanoes National Park.

Cultural Experiences – Connecting with Rwanda’s Heritage

Rwanda’s story is about far more than its wildlife. Cultural experiences offer a chance to engage with local communities and gain deeper insight into Rwandan traditions. Highlights include:

• Visiting the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park, where you can learn about traditional music, dance, and rural life
• Exploring King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, which showcases Rwanda’s pre-colonial history
• Participating in Umuganda – a monthly community clean-up day that offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s unique civic pride and unity

Final Thoughts

Rwanda may be best known for its mountain gorillas, but to visit and leave without exploring more of the country would be a missed opportunity. From the shores of Lake Kivu to the savannahs of Akagera and the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda rewards travellers who take the time to look beyond its most famous residents.

Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation or cultural depth, Rwanda delivers – all within a compact and accessible landscape.