Rwanda | The land of a thousand hills
Coordinates
Rwanda is a landlocked country located in East-Central Africa. Its approximate coordinates are around 1.9403° S latitude and 29.8739° E longitude.
Average Rainfall
Rwanda has a tropical highland climate, and its average rainfall varies across the country. In the western and northwestern regions, the average annual rainfall can range from about 800 mm (31 inches) to 1,000 mm (39 inches). In the central and eastern parts, rainfall can be higher, ranging from 1,000 mm to 1,500 mm (39 to 59 inches) or more, making these areas more suitable for agriculture.
The mountainous regions, such as the Virunga Mountains, can receive even higher amounts of rainfall.
Average Temperatures
Rwanda's climate is generally cooler due to its higher elevation. The average temperatures vary with altitude and season. In the capital city, Kigali, which is situated at an elevation of around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), the average daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F).
Temperatures are cooler in the mountainous regions, especially at higher altitudes. The country experiences two distinct rainy seasons, one from March to May and another from September to December.
Climate
Rwanda has two rainy seasons, March to May and October to November, with an average rainfall of 110-200 mm per month. The country's average temperature range between 24.6 to 27.6ºc, with the Hottest months being August, and September.
Physical features and attractions
The Main water bodies are Lake Kivu, Lake Muhazi, Lake Ihema, Lake Bulera, Lake Ruhondo and Lake Mugesera. Rwanda's Vegetation ranges from dense equatorial forest in the north-west of the country to tropical savanna in the east.
Rwanda's major National Parks are Akagera national park, Volcanoes National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. Volcanoes National Park in the Virunga volcanic mountains is famous for mountain gorillas and other various wildlife, Nyungwe Forest National park is famous for Chimpanzees and canopy walks while Lake Kivu offers beautiful inland endless fresh water beaches, and islands of awesomeness.
Capital City
The capital city of Rwanda is Kigali. It is the largest city in the country and serves as its political, economic, and cultural hub. Kigali is known for its cleanliness and efficient urban planning, making it one of the most well-organized cities in Africa.
Rwanda covers a total area of 26,338 km² and has a total population of 14,094,683. The Land of a Thousand Hills lies 75 miles south of the equator, the country's Altitude ranges from 950m to 4500m above the sea level.
Located in central Africa, Rwanda borders Uganda in the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. The country has five volcanoes, 23 lakes, 4 national parks and numerous rivers.
This small landlocked country in East Africa, has emerged as a top tourist destination in recent years, captivating travelers with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and remarkable wildlife experiences. Despite its tragic history, Rwanda has transformed itself into a safe and welcoming nation, offering visitors a unique and enriching adventure.
Here is why Rwanda is a must-visit destination for discerning travelers.
One of Rwanda's most renowned attractions is its breathtaking natural beauty. The country is famously known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" due to its undulating terrain, which encompasses lush green valleys, picturesque lakes, and majestic mountains.
The most iconic peak is Mount Karisimbi, 14,787 feet, which offers adventurous hikers an exhilarating challenge and rewards them with sweeping panoramic views from its summit.
The capital city of Rwanda is Kigali. It is the largest city in the country and serves as its political, economic, and cultural hub. Kigali is known for its cleanliness and efficient urban planning, making it one of the most well-organized cities in Africa.
Rwanda is also home to a rich and diverse wildlife population, with its most famous residents being the endangered mountain gorillas. These gentle giants can be found in the Volcanoes National Park, nestled within the Virunga Mountains.
Trekking through the dense forests to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience that leaves visitors with a profound appreciation for conservation efforts.
The opportunity to observe gorilla families up close, witnessing their social interactions and playful antics, is a truly unforgettable encounter.
In addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Akagera National Park, situated in the east of the country, offers a unique savannah experience, where visitors can spot a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras.
The park's diverse ecosystem features lakes, swamps, and open plains, providing a picturesque backdrop for thrilling game drives and guided walks. For those interested in primates beyond gorillas, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a must-visit destination.
This ancient rainforest is home to 13 different primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and golden monkeys. Trekking through the dense foliage while listening to the echoes of the forest and catching glimpses of these elusive creatures is an adventure that immerses visitors in the wonders of the natural world.
Rwanda's commitment to conservation and sustainability is commendable. The country has made significant efforts to protect its natural heritage and promote eco-tourism. The revenue generated from gorilla trekking permits, for instance, directly contributes to conservation initiatives and supports local communities.
Visitors to Rwanda can take pride in knowing that their tourism dollars are making a positive impact on the environment and the lives of the Rwandan people. Beyond its natural wonders, Rwanda boasts a rich cultural heritage that is steeped in tradition.
The vibrant capital city of Kigali is a melting pot of cultures, where modernity seamlessly blends with traditional customs. Visitors can explore the city's vibrant markets, visit art galleries showcasing local talent, and sample delicious Rwandan cuisine, which is characterized by dishes such as brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and the staple food, ugali (a cornmeal-based dish).
For those interested in history and reflection, Rwanda offers opportunities to learn about the country's tragic past and its remarkable journey of reconciliation. The Kigali Genocide Memorial provides a moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, offering a somber yet important reminder of the importance of unity and peace. Traveling within Rwanda is also a breeze, thanks to its well-maintained road network.
Map of Rwanda
Experiences exclusive to Rwanda
Top safaris in Rwanda
12 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari and Rwanda with Lake Kivu
This safari joins Uganda and Rwanda’s Lake Kivu. Uganda will expose you to the primate capital in Kibale national park as you look for the chimps. You will then enjoy the best queen Elizabeth national park
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5880Per person sharing
4 Days Golden Monkey Rwanda and Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
You will visit Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda for the endangered Golden Monkey Trekking Tour and proceed to Uganda for a gorilla trekking tour experience in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park to conclude with relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi.
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2013Per person sharing
1 Days Akagera National Park game drive safari
This one full-day game drive tour gives you a chance to explore Akagera National Park, The only savannah park in Rwanda, The park is famous for hosting several wildlife species
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480Per person sharing
7 Days Africa family safari
This 7 days Africa Family safari will expose you and your Family to Uganda's wildlife, Nature and culture, you will encounter most of Uganda's crater lakes in Fort Portal.
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2404Per person sharing
2 Days Rwanda and Uganda Tour Starting from Kigali
This safari is meant for nature and wildlife lovers who have limited time but are writing off countries, we will take you to Bwindi impenetrable forest national park in Uganda and Akagera national park in Rwanda, where you will try your luck to complete your African big six tour in only two days.
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1943Per person sharing
21 Days Uganda and Rwanda, wildlife and primate safari
This safari will take you to Uganda and Rwanda, You will experience the most sough after activities like gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey tracking as well as wildlife viewing adventures in these countries
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12604Per person sharing
1 Days Dian fossy Tomb trail tour
With this tour you will learn more about a conservation pioneer Dian Fossey, an American primatologist and conservationist known for undertaking an extensive study of mountain gorilla groups from 1966 until her 1985 murder.
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555Per person sharing
2 Days Chimpanzee and Colobus monkeys Tracking Tour in Rwanda
This 2 day Rwanda Chimpanzee trekking safari in Nyungwe forest national park will give you a unique experience of Rwanda's forests. You will have a short stopover at the ethnographic museum of Rwanda to learn more about the culture and history of the Rwandan people.
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1102Per person sharing
2 Days Akagera National Park Mid Range Tour
This safari offers captivating game drives and a scenic boat cruise along Lake Ihema. Over these two days, anticipate encountering a rich array of wildlife
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886Per person sharing
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari with Culture and Genocide Museum
Track the endangered Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda's most stunning Volcanoes National park
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3750Per person sharing
3 Days Rwanda Akagera National Park Mid Range Tour
Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda and covers an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometers. It is named after the Akagera River which flows along its eastern boundary.
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1486Per person sharing
3 Days Gorilla Trekking and Lake Kivu Rwanda tour
Planning to visit Volcanoes National Park for a gorilla trekking in Rwanda on a 3 Days Gorilla Tour with relaxation on lake Kivu. Book this 3 days Rwanda gorilla and Lake Kivu that takes you to Volcanoes national park where you can experience mountain gorilla tracking in the wild.
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3618Per person sharing
4 Days Virungas and Lake Kivu Rwanda tour
As a short introduction to the beauty of Rwanda! Start your safari with a unique city walk tour, followed by a traditional lunch. Feel the stunning thousands of hills, come eye to eye with the impressive mountain gorillas and finally unwind at the lovely sandy beaches of Lake Kivu.
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4140Per person sharing
4 Days Golden Monkey Rwanda and Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
You will visit Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda for the endangered Golden Monkey Trekking Tour and proceed to Uganda for a gorilla trekking tour experience in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park to conclude with relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi.
From
2013Per person sharing
5 Days Kigali City , Volcanoes National Park and Rubavu in five days
This 5 Days Rwanda Safari takes you to trek mountain gorillas and tracking Golden monkey or Dian Fossey hike in Volcanoes national park and kayaking Lake Kivu in Rubavu district.
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4785Per person sharing
6 Days The Big five and Culture relaxation tour of Rwanda
This 6 day Rwanda tour takes you to 2 national parks within Rwanda. It begins and ends in Kigali City , takes you to Akagera national park, Volcanoes national park and Lake Kivu.
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5280Per person sharing
10 Days Rwanda special Expedition Highlight tour
This 10 days of Rwanda special expedition will take you to 3 national parks of Rwanda, Lake Kivu and Karongi tour.
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7500Per person sharing
10 Days Rwanda Highlights, an all around Rwanda tour
Enjoy a true jungle experience in Nyungwe Forest where you can track the chimpanzees, unwind at the Sunday beaches of the beautiful Lake Kivu. Climax Your safari with the ultimate encounter with Africa's mountain gorillas!
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6900Per person sharing
7 Days Mountain and Lowland Gorilla Tracking Rwanda and Congo
Gorilla Tracking is a highly sought-after, distinctive and exceptional adventure in Africa. This activity allows visitors to have magical and life-changing encounters with the gentle giant gorillas inhabiting the Kahuzi Biega National Park in Congo (DRC) and the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, specifically for lowland and mountain gorilla tracking, respectively.
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3668Per person sharing
Toursit attractions in Rwanda
Kigali city
Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is a city that effortlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering travelers a unique and enriching experience.
Explore parkThe Genocide memorial
Rwanda has a tragic history. In 1994, there happened genocide that lasted 100 days and 800000 lives were taken in a brutal Tutsi ethnic cleansing. The genocide tore the small nation into pieces but it has managed to rise from the ashes.
Explore parkVolcanoes national park
Volcanoes national park is probably the most popular park in Rwanda. There are so many things to see and enjoy in this park. You can go gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, volcano climbing, volcano climbing and hiking, birding, nature walks, cave exploration, visiting Diane Fossey's research camp and so much more.
Explore parkAkagera national park
Akagera National Park offers thrilling Big five safaris which expands your luck to spotting leopards search for black rhinos, savanna elephants and lions. The national park is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a top destination for birding tours in Rwanda.
Explore parkKigali international Airport
Kigali International Airport (IATA: KGL, ICAO: HRYR), formerly known as Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport, sometimes referred to as Kanombe International Airport, is the main airport serving Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. It is located in the suburb of Kanombe, approximately 10 kilometers east of the city center.
Explore parkLake Kivu
Lake Kivu in Rwanda is a perfect place to relax after days of Rwanda safari activities, such as hiking, gorilla trekking, biking the Nile Congo trail, or exploring the Nyungwe forest, you will certainly need a good place to chill, relax, and come down before your long flight back home.
Explore parkNyungwe forest national park
One of the wondrous sights in the land of a thousand hills is the Nyungwe forest. National park, It covers a wide area of over 1000 sq. Km in Rwanda extends to Burundi where it's called Kibira national park. Nyungwe forest receives about 200mm of rain annually and is Rwanda's largest water catchment belt
Explore parkThe Diana Fossey tomb
Back in time, Dian Fossey established this Karisoke scientific center in the area just between 2 volcanoes of Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi from which its name Karisoke was derived.
Explore parkLake Ihema
his article explores the natural beauty, activities, and wildlife around Lake Ihema, as well as the role Musana Tours and Travel can play in ensuring a memorable experience.
Explore parkNews and updates
Budget lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Below is our list of selected low-budget and some mid-range hotels and restaurants from as low as $20.
Mon Sep 09 2024
Is it safe for LGBT to visit Uganda
Despite some negative press, Uganda is a safe country for gay and lesbian travelers. However, Uganda is a conservative country and we recommend discretion this applies to people who intend to reside in the country for quite a long time.
Mon Sep 09 2024
Bakiga
The Bakiga are a diverse tribe that inhabit districts of Rubanda, Kabale, Rukiga, Kanungu and parts of Rukungiri and Ntungamo districts, which makes the original kigezi region.
Mon Sep 09 2024