Rwanda Tourism Info & Gorilla Tourism in Rwanda 2024

Rwanda tourism sector greatly depends on mountain gorilla safaris which take place in the Volcanoes national park just 2 hours away from the Kigali city center. Gorillas tourism in Rwanda first caught the public year as early as the 1970s because of the conservation efforts of Dian Fossey.

The mountain gorillas of Rwanda have featured in several documentaries hence capturing the interest of also international figures like Bill Gates, Natalie Portman and Ted Turner, who have participated in the annual gorilla naming ceremony of Rwanda which takes place at the foothill of the Volcanoes national park in Musanze.

Rwanda has come a long way from the horrific genocide to being a very safe and fast-growing African country with the cleanest city in Africa. The country has capitalized on mountain gorilla tourism as a valuable conservation tool and a large income earner and has enforced strict rules for the habituation and trekking of gorilla families in Rwanda. Today numbers of travelers are traveling into Rwanda, willing to pay highly (USD 750) for a limited number of permits, which are usually sold out early and require travelers to book early.

Rwanda Tourism

Foreign Exchange received from gorilla tourism provides funds for conservation mountain gorillas and other national parks. 5% of park revenues goes to develop community projects

Besides Gorilla Tourism, Rwanda has 2 other national parks; The Akagera National Park offers a range of wildlife, such as elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebra, The Nyungwe Forest National Park has a large tract of mountain forest and is rich in biodiversity. Guided walks and chimpanzee tracking is offered. Lake Kivu has recreational facilities as well, but there is still significant potential that could be developed.

Tourism industry in Rwanda has been particularly successful in attracting large numbers of business and conference travelers as compared to other mountain gorilla destination within the East African Community. Of recent, the country is seeing an increase in the number of hotels and other tourism facilities opening up in the different tourists’ destinations as well as the opening of new tourists centers like cultural centers, forest reserves so that the country can keep tourist longer when visiting Rwanda. Looking at export revenue, tourism in Rwanda has already outperformed coffee and tea by a wide margin.

Factors contributing to the increased growth of Rwanda Tourism

Government Commitment
The Rwandan government has shown a keen interest and support towards the development of the tourism sector by declaring and maintaining Rwanda as a safe travel destination within East Africa. It’s not news to the whole world about the horrific manslaughter during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. But today the government has maintained peace and security within the country and this has given the international world confidence to travel in Rwanda.

Furthermore, the government has greatly involved and encouraged the private sector to involve and market Rwanda’s tourism alongside the government. The Government has realized tourism as the key to improving people’s livelihood and reducing poverty by directly involving the local community into the conservation and protection of gorillas.

Rwanda Tourism Attractions

Rwanda offers a range of tourism attractions that cater to different interests, from wildlife safaris to cultural experiences. Here’s a comprehensive list of Rwanda’s top tourism attractions:

1. Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking: The park is famous for its mountain gorillas, with treks offering close encounters with these endangered primates.
Golden Monkey Trekking: Experience a unique adventure tracking the endangered golden monkeys.
Volcanic Landscapes: The park features stunning volcanic landscapes, including the Virunga Mountains.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking: Explore the ancient rainforest and trek to see chimpanzees and other primates.
Canopy Walk: Enjoy a thrilling walk among the treetops with panoramic views of the forest.
Biodiversity: The park is home to over 300 bird species and numerous plant and animal species.

3. Akagera National Park

Game Drives: Discover Rwanda’s savanna wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
Boat Safaris: Explore Lake Ihema and other water bodies for a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts with over 500 bird species.

4. Kigali

Kigali Genocide Memorial: A poignant site dedicated to the victims of the 1994 genocide and an educational center about Rwanda’s history.
Inema Arts Center: A vibrant space showcasing contemporary Rwandan art and offering workshops.
Kigali City Tour: Explore the city’s clean streets, markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.

5. Lake Kivu

Boat Cruises: Enjoy serene boat rides on Lake Kivu, which is one of Africa’s Great Lakes.
Beach Resorts: Relax at lakeside resorts and beaches, including the popular town of Gisenyi.
Fishing and Water Sports: Engage in activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

6. Butare (Huye)

National Museum of Rwanda: Learn about Rwandan history, culture, and art at this comprehensive museum.
Ethnographic Museum: Explore Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage through artifacts and exhibits.

7. Gisenyi

Rwanda Art Museum: Located in the former presidential palace, this museum features contemporary Rwandan art.
Hot Springs: Visit the natural hot springs near the town for a relaxing experience.

8. Rutsiro District

Buhanga Eco Park: A sacred forest with significant cultural and historical value to the Rwandan people.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park: Known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts, this park offers opportunities for nature walks and primate tracking.

9. Ruhengeri

Twin Lakes: Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo offer scenic beauty and opportunities for boat rides and hiking.
Ruhengeri Market: Experience local culture and commerce at this bustling market.

10. Jali

Cultural Experiences: Engage in traditional Rwandan customs and visit local communities to experience traditional dances and ceremonies.

11. Nyamata and Murambi

Genocide Memorials: Visit the memorials at Nyamata and Murambi to gain deeper insight into the tragic events of the genocide.

12. Rwandan Tea and Coffee Estates

Plantation Tours: Tour the scenic tea and coffee plantations in the regions around Nyungwe and Kabuye, learning about the cultivation and processing of these important crops.

Rwanda’s diverse attractions offer something for everyone, whether you’re interested in wildlife, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the stunning natural landscapes.

Rwanda tourism attractions

Rwanda Travel Requirements

Traveling to Rwanda involves meeting certain requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant entry into the country. Here’s a summary of the key travel requirements for Rwanda:

1. Visa Requirements

Visa on Arrival: Citizens of several countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport. However, it’s advisable to check the most current visa policies as they can change.
eVisa: Travelers from most countries can apply for an eVisa online before arrival. The eVisa system simplifies the application process and is available on the Rwanda Immigration website.
Visa Exemptions: Some countries are visa-exempt for short stays (typically up to 90 days). Check the Rwandan government’s official website for a list of visa-exempt countries.

2. Passport Validity; Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Rwanda. Ensure it has at least one or two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

3. Travel Insurance; While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended. It should cover health emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

4. Health Requirements; Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. You may need to show your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).

6. Customs Regulations; Familiarize yourself with Rwanda’s customs regulations regarding items you are allowed to bring into the country. Certain items may be restricted or require declaration.

7. Proof of Funds; You might be required to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Rwanda, particularly if traveling on a visa.

8. Accommodation Proof; Ensure you have evidence of your accommodation arrangements for the duration of your stay. This can be a hotel booking or a letter from a host if staying with friends or family.

9. Travel Itinerary; A detailed travel itinerary, including flights, accommodation, and planned activities, can be useful, especially if applying for a visa or during immigration checks.

10. Emergency Contacts; Have a list of emergency contacts, including local embassies, consulates, and local contacts in Rwanda.

Additional Tips

Local Currency: Rwanda’s currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). It’s a good idea to carry some local currency or have access to international banking facilities.
Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to ensure respectful and lawful behavior during your stay.

Before traveling, always verify the latest entry requirements and travel advisories from official sources such as the Rwandan Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration or your country’s embassy. This ensures that you have the most current information and can address any specific requirements or changes in regulations.