Cycling in Rwanda is intense, varied, and surprisingly accessible. During this 17-day mountain bike trip, you will travel straight through a country where the landscape and daily life constantly blend into one another. You will cycle through hilly terrain, past large lakes, and through tropical rainforests, whilst getting acquainted with Rwandan culture and hospitality along the way. You might wonder if such a trip is physically feasible. The routes are structured so that varying ability levels can easily keep up, with room to adjust the pace and distances. To top it off, you will reach Akagera National Park, where you have the chance to see the complete Big 5 by bike and safari: a special conclusion to a versatile cycling trip.
Rwanda didn’t get its nickname for nothing. From day one, you will notice that flat roads are rare here. The route takes you over a succession of hills, where every climb is rewarded with a spectacular view. You will look out over valleys full of terraced gardens, tea plantations, and misty mountain peaks. This makes the cycling intensive, but also immensely rewarding.
The roads we cycle on are largely unpaved (gravel) and red in colour. This provides a true mountain biking feel without being technically extremely complicated. The surface is generally easy to ride on, but the elevation gain does require perseverance. Because we have 17 days, the pace is well-distributed, giving you plenty of time to recover and enjoy.
One of the absolute highlights of this trip is cycling (a section of) the Congo Nile Trail. This famous route runs along the shores of Lake Kivu and forms the watershed between the Nile and Congo rivers. You will cycle high above the lake, with views of the glistening water and the mountains of Congo on the other side.
Along the way, you will pass small fishing villages and coffee plantations. It is a lively route where you will have a lot of contact with the local population. Children run alongside you, fishermen wave from their boats, and women carry colourful baskets on their heads. The paths vary from wide gravel roads to narrow singletracks winding through the vegetation. It is a continuous string of postcard moments.
Cycling in Rwanda starts in the most beautiful capital in Africa: Kigali. Together with 4 other mountain bikers and the Rwandan team, you will cover an unforgettable route. You will brave many hills, cycle past the most beautiful lakes, and cross through tropical rainforests. At the end of this journey through Rwanda, you will visit Akagera National Park, where you have the chance to spot the entire (!) Big 5. After 17 days, you will leave the many different landscapes of this country behind and return to Kigali, where you have another day to explore this green city. From here, you will step back onto the plane to head home.
Would you rather cycle through Rwanda on your own? No problem. Check out “Individual trips – Rwanda” for ideas.
The departure dates for this trip can be found in the table below.
| Departure date | Duration | Level | Availablility | Price p.p. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06-05-2026 | 17 days | € 4.695,00 | Book this trip | |||
| 12-08-2026 | 17 days | Fit | € 4.695,00 | Book this trip | ||
| 03-12-2026 | 17 days | € 4.695,00 | Book this trip | |||
| 04-02-2027 | 17 days | €4.695,00 | Book this trip | |||
| 06-05-2027 | 17 days | €4.695,00 | Book this trip | |||
| 12-08-2027 | 17 days | € 4.695,00 | Book this trip | |||
| 02-12-2027 | 17 days | € 4.695,00 | Book this trip |
At CvA travel, we believe that everyone should be able to join our trips, regardless of your ability level. That is why we have created 3 categories of adventurers: relaxed adventurers, fit adventurers, and seasoned adventurers. Whatever your level is, you are always welcome. Would you like to know more about the different levels? Then read more under the ‘practical information’ tab.
Below you will find the day-to-day itinerary for 17 days of cycling in Rwanda. By mountain bike or e-mountain bike, you will cycle mostly on unpaved roads and brave various mountains and hills. We aren’t saying it’s an easy or flat route, but we know for sure that this is a unique journey through Rwanda that you will never forget. One with wild animals, beautiful, varied landscapes, and a glimpse into the culture. You don’t need anything more, right? Read on quickly to see what you can expect.
Welcome to the most beautiful city in Africa. After a long flight, the African team will be waiting for you at the airport. You will be warmly welcomed and taken to the beautiful Hotel Tugende. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax in the afternoon or take a walk through the city. Did you know that Kigali ranks number 3 on the list of the greenest cities in the world? So, admire all the greenery around you or visit one of the many markets. The Genocide Memorial is also worth a visit, but there will be plenty of time for this at the end of the trip as well. If you bring your own bike, you can already put it together before the real cycling in Rwanda begins tomorrow.
Meals: not included
Accommodation: Hotel Tugende
And not just any bike ride…
The first day of this trip in Rwanda is immediately a tough one. Rwanda isn’t called the land of a 1000 hills for nothing, and you will certainly notice it. But the fact that this is a challenging path also makes it a beautiful first ride. Cycling under a clear blue sky, you are surrounded by lush green hills, red dirt roads, and brightly coloured buildings. Add to that the fact that you are greeted time and again by the many cheerful men, women, and children walking along the side of the road.
After the necessary elevation gain over unpaved paths, you will eventually arrive at the Sorwathe tea plantations, which are situated in the middle of a large, green valley. Whilst enjoying a cold drink or a cup of tea – if you can manage to choose from the many flavours – you can take in the views over the tea plantations, which stretch as far as the eye can see. A wonderful conclusion to this first day of cycling in Rwanda.
On this third morning of your trip in Rwanda, you will get up early. You will see the radiant sun rise through the light morning mist as you take a walk through the tea plantations. Here, you will learn how the people – who live around the factory’s estate – go about their daily lives and how they begin the long morning walk to take their children to school. A true glimpse into the lives of these Rwandans.
After breakfast, you hop back on your bike and leave this magical place behind. You leave the tourists behind and in no time you are cycling in the real Rwanda. Eventually, you will stand atop one of the many hills you conquer, where you will be met with a breathtaking view. You look down on the Twin Lakes: two beautiful, deep-blue crater lakes, surrounded by steep hills, volcanic mountains, and waterfalls. The lakes – Ruhondo and Burera – lie practically next to each other but are separated by a strip of land a kilometre wide. You will continue the ride along the shores of Lake Ruhondo before arriving at the accommodation.
You will also take a boat trip across the Twin Lakes and see many different species of birds that live around the lake, such as the African crane, the Hadada ibis, the black saw-wing, and yellow-billed storks. You will also see how the local population lives, how they transport goods across the lake, and how they catch their supper from the water.
Today you will cycle across the narrow strip of land between Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera, enjoying the beautiful view over the lakes one last time. You will continue your ride with plenty of elevation gain, looking out over the volcanic mountains or the numerous banana plantations at every turn. After that, you will brave a tough 3-kilometre stretch through a volcanic environment. Don’t be surprised if you have to carry your bike to cross the tricky sections over lava. But one thing is certain: adventure and fun are guaranteed.
Early in the afternoon, you will arrive in Musanze, leaving plenty of time to explore this cycling capital of Rwanda. We are certain you will be amazed by the number of people who travel by bike in this city. A place where you will feel right at home, then! You will also visit the Musanze Caves, which are a staggering 1 million years old and 2 kilometres long. The main cave has an entrance the size of a cathedral (!), is lushly overgrown, and is home to many bats, birds, and reptiles. While you visit this cave with a torch, helmet, and gloves, you will realise what an adventurous and unique experience this is on the fourth day of your journey in Rwanda.
On day 5 of your trip in Rwanda, you will find yourself at the foot of Volcanoes National Park. This is the habitat of several groups of mountain gorillas, including a nearby research centre. In addition to gorillas – which are only found in Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda – this park is also home to golden monkeys, various colourful birds, reptiles, and other amphibians. The 8 Virunga Volcanoes that tower above the park’s forests make this a spectacular sight.
Have you decided that your legs need a rest? Then take a wonderfully relaxed day at the accommodation. Can you keep going and do you fancy something active? Then there are a number of optional activities available:
Volcanoes Hike: A solid 4 – 5 hour hike through the national park led by a guide. You will admire the beautiful nature and visit one of the local communities, where you will see how daily life unfolds. A true immersion into the culture of Rwanda. And with a bit of luck, you might even spot the Golden Monkeys. Cost: € 75.00
Golden Monkey Trekking: An absolute must-do and a highly unique experience that you won’t easily forget. Together with a guide, you will search for 2 of the 80 groups of monkeys in this park and you are even allowed to spend an hour with the group. You will see how these monkeys live in their natural habitat, how they jump from tree to tree, play with each other, and eat bamboo. Cost: € 125.00
Karisoke Research Centre Trek: It is also possible to do a trek through the Karisoke Research Centre. A research centre founded by Dian Fossey, who conducted extensive research into the mountain gorillas. The trek takes about 3 hours, during which you walk through the rainforest, admire various monkey and bird species, and take a look inside Dian Fossey’s former home. The centre is no longer completely intact, but you get a good idea of Diane’s life and learn about the research into the mountain gorillas. Cost: € 25.00
Wow! A beautiful day lies ahead today. We will be cycling straight through Volcanoes National Park, a highlight of Rwanda, which you already got your first taste of yesterday. Time and time again, you will be surrounded by a spectacular environment and be amazed by all the beauty around you. Keep your camera ready, because who knows what wild animals you might spot on this sixth day of cycling in Rwanda.
Day 7 starts with a short transfer to Gisenyi. Once you arrive here, you will hop on your bike in a flash and start on one of the most famous cycling trails in Rwanda: the Congo Nile Trail. We will cycle over unpaved dirt roads along the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu, passing through several small villages. While you enjoy the fantastic view over Lake Kivu, you will simultaneously get a glimpse into Rwandan life around the lake. Time and time again you will be greeted by the locals: the adults with a smile from ear to ear and the children enthusiastically waving their hands in the air.
In the afternoon, you will arrive in the picturesque fishing village of Kinunu, which is known for its coffee production and processing. The accommodation – Kinunu Guest House – is therefore nestled amongst the coffee and tea plantations, making it a peaceful setting. Take a wonderfully refreshing dip in nearby Lake Kivu this afternoon or visit the coffee washing station, which is just around the corner from the accommodation. Here you will learn about the different stages of coffee processing – from crop to cup – and taste one of the best Arabica coffees in all of Rwanda.
Today we continue our route along the Congo Nile Trail. There are 28 kilometres of rolling hills ahead, with some quite steep sections. Fortunately, you know that this effort is 100% worth it, as the amazing surroundings sometimes make you forget that it requires some serious pedalling. You will cycle through small villages, where you can try to spot the traditional beehives – made from banana fibres – or admire the handmade weaving and pottery of the local population.
On this ninth day in Rwanda, we are still cycling on the Congo Nile Trail. You will head towards the sandy valley of Musaho, after which you will cross the river via a suspension bridge. Following this, a tough climb awaits you to cycle back out of the valley. You will then join a path that takes you through the Mukura Forest and descend 16 kilometres to the town of Karongi. Here you will continue the descent along the banks of the river, after which you will make the climb along the flanks of the impressive Sakinnyaga mountain range. Finally, you will reach Lake Kivu and cover the last few kilometres towards the Rwiza Village Hotel.
Today is all about the final stretch of the Congo Nile Trail. And that also means the longest climb of the entire trail in Rwanda. As we cycle higher and higher in elevation, over the unpaved dirt path, you will see Lake Kivu getting smaller and smaller. The tea plantations and an increasingly cool breeze let you know that you are approaching the end of the climb and are almost at the top of Mount Karongi. After this, the path leads you via varied, rocky descents and winding climbs to the heart of one of the best tea plantations in Rwanda: Gisovu. This is also an area where cars cannot reach, meaning our support vehicle will no longer be in sight. From here, we will cover the final stretch – through the forests and past many farms – to Kivu Lodge. A beautiful concluding ride for day 10 of your journey in Rwanda.
Already the eleventh day of your trip in Rwanda. Today we cycle to Nyungwe Forest National Park: a very large area home to the oldest forests in Africa. The park has many hiking trails and waterfalls, but also the largest population of eastern chimpanzees, more than 300 species of birds, and other mammals, such as jackals. You will cycle right through the forest, up hill and down dale, taking in the many sounds of the rainforest and seeing many monkeys moving around you. Make sure you keep your eyes on the road in this unique environment with everything going on around you. This day is purely for enjoying.
Today the choice is entirely yours. Could your legs really use some rest after all that cycling? Then relax wonderfully at the accommodation and enjoy the silence and all the greenery around you. Would you rather do something active again? Then the optional canopy walk or the optional chimpanzee trekking is for you.
Canopy Walk: During the canopy walk, you will walk for 2 hours through the dense forest of Nyungwe. Walking beneath the ancient trees, you will come across beautiful flowers and other flora and fauna of the rainforest. After about 2 hours, you will reach the bridge which – situated between the enormous trees – hangs 60 metres above the forest floor. Before you brave the suspension bridge, enjoy the beautiful views and the fantastic birds and butterflies flying overhead. After you have crossed the bridge, you will make another beautiful walk down and, with a bit of luck, spot a few more monkeys. Cost: € 50.00
Chimpanzee Trekking: During the chimpanzee trek, you will set off with a guide to look for chimpanzees. You will observe them up close and get the chance to admire their human-like characteristics and behaviour. Chimpanzees are monkeys that are constantly moving and jump from tree to tree at high speeds (very different from the mountain gorilla*). Add to that the fact that they make a lot of deafening noise: screaming, loud hooting, and hitting hard on tree bark. It’s guaranteed that the adrenaline will course through your body from time to time during this highly extraordinary experience. Cost: € 110.00 (Note: For many tourists, gorilla trekking is one of the reasons to visit Rwanda. However, tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda is quite pricey due to the high permit costs. An adventurous and much more affordable alternative is chimpanzee trekking. If you would love to admire gorillas in their natural habitat, we recommend taking our cycling trip through western Uganda, where gorilla trekking is much cheaper.)
This thirteenth day of your journey in Rwanda starts with a route along a steep, wooded slope, offering fantastic views over the many densely overgrown hills. Just when you thought you’d seen all the trees, flowers, and orchids, you’ll be amazed all over again today. After this tough climb, you will get into the car for a transfer to Akagera National Park. Gazing out of the window, you’ll realise how special it is that – in such a small country as Rwanda – there is so much variety in nature. From tropical rainforests and hills to the savannahs, lakes, and swamps of Akagera National Park. Akagera National Park is relatively small and lesser-known, but due to the varying landscapes, you have the chance to spot the entire (!) Big 5 here. Lions, buffalo, elephants, zebras, giraffes, leopards, or hundreds of bird species? You will find them all in this national park!
Today you wake up in Akagera National Park. After breakfast, you will hop into the jeep and go on a game drive. You will explore the entire park in search of wild animals. In the north of the park, you will find the savannah plains, where you will mainly spot lions, buffalo, zebras, and leopards, whilst in the south, you will mainly find giraffes and rhinos. In the south, you will take a boat safari across one of the lakes. Here you will see hippos, crocodiles, and other wild animals coming to drink at the water’s edge. Tired but fulfilled from all the impressions of the day, you will end the day at Akagera Rhino Lodge. Do you secretly still have some energy left? Then you have the option to join a bird safari or a night safari. Since you’re there anyway…
Early in the morning, a transfer will take you from Akagera to Rwamagana. Here you will get on your bike for the very last time – during this trip, that is. We will cycle one last time over the unpaved paths, through the green rural surroundings, and past the small villages of Rwanda. Once you arrive at Lake Muhazi, you will cycle up the terraced hills and then descend back towards the water’s edge. With mixed feelings, you step off the bike, knowing that the cycling in Rwanda is almost over. The end of the journey is – sadly – already in sight.
You wake up with a breathtaking view over the serene Lake Muhazi. This morning you have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings one last time. After this, it is time to return to the most beautiful city in Africa: Kigali.
In the afternoon, you have time to explore Kigali. A real must-see is the Genocide Memorial, where you will learn about the 1994 civil war. Afterwards, head towards the Nyabugogo market to taste the delicious flavour of the tropical fruit here one last time. To make your journey through Rwanda complete, make a final stop at the Caplaki craft market to buy souvenirs made of wood, banana leaf, fabric, or pottery.
In the evening, we will gather in a good restaurant, naturally concluding the trip together. Using the photos, every day of the trip will be reviewed one more time. And we are absolutely certain: this journey through Rwanda, with its people, adventures, and wild animals, is one you will never forget.
The very last day has now truly arrived, bringing all the beauty to an end. Whilst waiting for your flight, you can reflect on all the beautiful moments from the past 17 (!) days. You will look back on the everlasting memories and this unique experience in Rwanda. Is the travel bug secretly starting to itch again as you think about your next trip? Then hopefully we will see you again soon.
Meals: Breakfast
Have you become just as enthusiastic about this group cycling trip through Rwanda as we are? Have a look below at what is included in the price.
When cycling through Rwanda, it is important to rest well and stay in lovely places. Therefore, the accommodations have been carefully selected one by one, ensuring every day and night gets a 10 out of 10.
CvA travel pays extra attention to choosing these accommodations for every tour. For the trip through Rwanda, you can count on absolute gems for your overnight stays. Below you will find a few places we would like to highlight in advance, so you can already start enjoying the anticipation. It is not just about the overnight stay, but exactly about the total experience of these trips, and the hotels, resorts, and lodges below are certainly a part of that.
In the heart of the city, you will find the Tugende Hotel, which is within walking distance of many of the city’s highlights. Besides a hotel, you will also find a café here where you can drink the most delicious coffee, made by Rwandan baristas. The atmosphere in this hotel is typical of Rwanda: cheerful, welcoming, and includes all the service you might need.
Lake Ruhondo Resort The name somewhat gives it away, as this resort overlooks the beautiful Lake Ruhondo. This resort consists of 10 detached bungalows in Rwandan style, equipped with all modern conveniences. As soon as you wake up in the morning, you can immediately enjoy the surroundings, because the lake isn’t the only talking point. You also look out over one of the Rwandan volcanoes, and you’ll find yourself in a large garden with birds flying to and fro.
Kivu Lodge Have you ever slept in the middle of a coffee plantation? No? Then this will be your first time. The Kivu Lodge is located on a private peninsula on the lake, amongst the coffee plants, where you can choose from 20 cottages. Every cottage has a fantastic view over the lake. How wonderful is it to wake up to that? Feel free to take a dip in the lake or the swimming pool, and join the campfire in the evening to make the ‘Rwanda experience’ totally complete.
Akagera Rhino Lodge This exclusive eco-lodge is one you will not easily forget. Luxurious, equipped with every facility you can imagine, and as the icing on the cake, you also look out over the lake from your lodge here. Akagera National Park is less than 10 minutes away, so you can be spotting animals in no time. Would you rather tick other activities off your bucket list? You can indulge yourself here too. It’s no wonder you’re already looking forward to this accommodation, if you ask us.
This means you will be cycling in a group with travellers of varying ability levels. And that goes together effortlessly. Do you find a stage too tough? Then you can get in the car and join in again later. In the national parks, we always cycle together: safe and a special experience to share with one another.
If you are travelling with a fitter partner or travel companion, an e-mountain bike is ideal. This way, everyone cycles at their own pace and yet you still share the same unique experience. Our local guides know the terrain inside out, guide you along the most beautiful routes, and assess on the spot which paths suit the group best – always prioritising the overall experience.
During this 17-day trip, you will stay in good lodges and guesthouses. Rwanda is known as a clean and organised country, and you will notice this in the accommodations as well. After a day in the saddle, there is always a nice place to shower and eat. We also visit cultural sites, such as the King’s Palace in Nyanza or the Genocide Memorial in Kigali, to learn more about the history of this resilient country.
The atmosphere in the group is relaxed. Because we travel with a minimum of 4 participants, there is a lot of personal attention. In the evening, we share the day’s experiences and prepare for the next stage.
Is 17 days of cycling tough? It is certainly a challenge, especially due to the elevation gain. But we make sure it stays enjoyable for everyone.
Support vehicle: A car always travels with us for luggage and support. Is a climb too steep or are you having an off day? Then you just hop in.
E-mountain bike: Want to make the hills a bit flatter? We rent out excellent Specialized e-mountain bikes. With these, you will breeze up the hills and save your energy for the surroundings.
Guidance: Our local guides are experienced, speak the language, and can carry out minor repairs to the bike on the spot.
Start and end: The trip begins and ends in the capital, Kigali, one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa.
Cycling: You can bring your own mountain bike or hire a bike (MTB or E-MTB) from us.
Included: Accommodations, meals, guides, support vehicle, and entrance fees for the parks (unless stated otherwise).
Are you ready to conquer the 1000 hills and discover Rwanda in all its facets? This 17-day trip offers the ultimate combination of a sporting challenge and African beauty.
This cycling trip guarantees departure with a minimum of 4 participants. For every 4 participants, you can count on 1 guide and 1 driver. Would you prefer to book an individual trip instead of a group trip through Uganda/Rwanda? That is, of course, also possible. Request a no-obligation quote and we will personally think along with you to ensure this trip perfectly matches your wishes.
In other words: check the list below so you set off well-prepared during your group cycling trip through Uganda/Rwanda. Below you will find several items that should not be missing from your suitcase, as well as what is included in the tour.
Before the trip:
During the trip:
Itching to set off on an extraordinary ride? Can’t wait to hop on the saddle and explore your dream destination at your own pace? Take a look at all our cycling journeys below – or get in touch to request a tailor-made adventure designed just for you.
We hope to see you soon.
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