Cycling holiday in Africa: why Rwanda works so well

Rwanda is a strong choice for a cycling holiday in Africa because it is manageable and safe, yet offers plenty of variety. You cycle through populated areas, past lakes, and through nature, without long transfers. The infrastructure is good and the country is compact, keeping logistics simple. This makes Rwanda suitable for cyclists who want to actively discover Africa, but do not want to be on the road for weeks on end.

Everything within easy reach during your cycling holiday in Africa

Africa is a vast continent where, in some countries, you have to drive for hours to get from one landscape to another. Rwanda is the exception. The country is roughly the size of Belgium. This is ideal for a cycling holiday. You don’t have to spend days sitting in a bus to see the highlights; you simply cycle to them or arrive via a short transfer.

Within a radius of a few hundred kilometres, you will find volcanoes, rainforests, savannahs, and enormous lakes. This means your holiday is highly efficient. You spend your time on the bike and in nature, not in traffic jams or on boring motorways. Every stage brings you to a completely new environment, making the trip feel much grander and richer than the number of kilometres suggests.

Best time to travel for your cycling holiday in Rwanda

Rwanda is located close to the equator and has a stable climate. The temperature is pleasant all year round (approx. 25 degrees Celsius). For a cycling holiday, rainfall is the most important factor, as we cycle a lot on unpaved roads.

• Long dry season (June – August): This is the best period. The roads are dry and hard, which makes cycling easier and ensures good grip on the descents.

• Short dry season (December – February): Also an excellent time. The landscape is beautifully green from the preceding rains, but the days are predominantly dry.

• Rainy seasons (March – May & October – November): It rains more frequently during these months. The gravel roads can become muddy and slippery, making cycling more demanding. For those who are flexible and love a green landscape (and lower prices), this is an option, but for the most comfortable cycling experience, we recommend the dry months.

Comfort and hygiene during your cycling holiday in Africa

A cycling holiday in Africa doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort. Rwanda has an excellent tourist infrastructure. The lodges and hotels are clean, atmospheric, and are often situated in beautiful locations by the water or overlooking the volcanoes.

After a day in the saddle and the dust, there is nothing nicer than a hot shower and a good bed. The food in Rwanda is fresh and safe. Because we always travel with a support vehicle, you don’t have to lug luggage around. You cycle light, and upon arrival, your bag is already waiting for you. This allows you to fully focus on cycling and recovery.

Close to the people in Rwanda

What makes a cycling holiday in Rwanda truly special is the contact. You aren’t cycling through an empty backdrop, but through a vibrant country. Rwanda is densely populated, which means there is always life along the road. Children wave, women carry baskets on their heads, and men transport impossible loads on their bicycles.

Because you are on a bike, you are approachable. You can easily stop for a chat or a photo. The locals are friendly and curious. You don’t get to know the country from a guidebook, but through interaction on the streets. This adds colour to your trip and provides stories that you will be telling back home for a long time.