Adventurous holiday in Rwanda

Small country, huge contrasts during your adventurous holiday in Rwanda

If you love variety, Rwanda is the ideal destination. The country is roughly the size of Belgium but harbours an incredible diversity of landscapes. For an adventurous traveller, this means you never have to sit in a car for long to arrive in a completely different world.

In the north, the misty peaks of the Virunga volcanoes dominate. In the west, you will find the ‘inland sea’ Lake Kivu with its rugged coastline. In the south lies the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe, and in the east, the savannah of Akagera stretches out. During an adventurous holiday, you string these highlights together. One moment you are standing in the mud of the rainforest, the next you are cycling in the sun along the water.

Wildlife experiences that touch you

An adventure in Africa is not complete without animals. In Rwanda, the wildlife experiences are unique and exclusive.

• Gorillas: The trek to the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park is physically demanding, but the reward is emotional. Coming face to face with a silverback in the wild is an experience you will never forget.

• Chimpanzees: In Nyungwe Forest, you go in search of our closest relatives. It is a rugged trek through dense forest, accompanied by the calls of the chimpanzees.

• Big 5: In Akagera National Park, you go on safari (by boat or car). Here you see elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards in a beautiful landscape of lakes and savannah.

The Congo Nile Trail: The heart of the adventure in Rwanda

For the active traveller, the Congo Nile Trail is a must. This route along Lake Kivu is legendary. You cycle (or walk) on narrow paths and broad gravel roads, high above the lake. The view of the mountains of Congo on the other side is constantly present.

The adventure here lies in the encounters and the terrain. You pass small fishing villages where life unfolds on the streets. You see fishermen mending their nets and women carrying their harvest to the market. The route is demanding due to the many hills, but the beauty of the surroundings pulls you through. It is the purest way to experience rural Rwanda.

Best time to travel for your adventurous holiday in Rwanda

Rwanda is located close to the equator and enjoys a stable climate with temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius. For an adventurous holiday where you spend a lot of time outdoors, rainfall is the most important factor.

• Long dry season (June – August): This is the best period for active travellers. The trails are dry, which makes cycling and walking easier. The chance of rain is small.

• Short dry season (December – February): This is also an excellent time. The landscape is green and fresh, and the days are predominantly dry. Ideal for both cycling and safari.

• Rainy seasons (March – May & October – November): More rain falls in these months. Nature is at its greenest and it is quieter in the parks. The walking and cycling trails can, however, be muddy and slippery, making the adventure physically more demanding and technical. For those with a flexible mindset, this can be a wonderful period, but for most people, the dry months are the safest choice.