There's no doubt that the most popular activity in Rwanda is gorilla tracking, but that's certainly not all this tiny African nation has to offer! 

Enjoy hiking, cultural immersion, and wildlife watching as you experience this unique part of the African continent. On your trip, you will have opportunities to:

• Track Gorillas! There's something fascinating about watching our closest primate cousins living tranquilly in their troops. In the Parc National des Volcans, you will hike deep into the mountain forest to find these magnificent creatures and spend some time with them just like Jane Goodall did with the chimps of Tanzania. 
   
• Explore the country for lions & leopards  around the Mweya peninsula or track the chimpanzees of the great Kyambura Gorge. 
   
• Visit and get to know a local village, where you will see & appreciate the simplicity of life in Rwanda. 

The Wildlife of Rwanda

When you venture into the mountain forests, you are in for a treat, as you make your way into the natural habitat of:

• Gorillas, which are the main attraction on most of our Rwanda tours.
• Chimpanzees are another exciting primate to spot as you check out the Kyambura Gorge.

On a game drive or around watering holes of the grasslands, you might encounter:

• Herds of elephant
• Buffalo
• Large populations of hippos

As for birds, you will likely see the African fish eagle and pelicans, in addition to other shore birds.

Best Time to Travel to Rwanda

June through February are the best times to visit Rwanda to experience maximum wildlife viewing and great weather.

March – May are less popular times to visit Rwanda. This is because there are heavy rains during these months resulting in more challenging hikes & treks, fewer animals will be seen due to the lack of predictable watering holes, and it may be uncomfortable. That being said, the lodging and activity prices will be lower during these months.
 

DID YOU KNOW...?
Rwanda is Africa's 4th smallest country, just 26,338 sq. km. in area.

Rwanda is one of only three countries where you can see wild mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The rolling grassy hills that cover Rwanda have earned it the name "Land of a Thousand Hills."

Over half of Rwanda's parliament is female, making it the most female parliament in the world.

Rwanda was first explored by Europeans in 1894.

The Hutu-Tutsi civil war of the late 20th century cost the lives of thousands of Rwandans and is considered one of the world's worst genocides. It has since been resolved and it is a safe & charming country to visit.

Rwanda FAQs
Do I need a visa to travel to Rwanda?
A valid passport with 6 months validity left and a one-month tourist visa (which can be purchased at the airport upon arrival for $30) are required to visit Rwanda.

Is tipping customary in Rwanda?
Tipping is not a cultural expecation in Rwanda, but tipping a guide $10+ for a great tour or leaving 10% on a bill at an upper end restaurant (if it's not already included) would be greatly appreciated. However, it is not required or expected.

What is internet access like in Rwanda?
Rwanda's internet access is growing, but our tours are not generally in the areas where you will find internet, especially in the safari camps. It is possible (though not guaranteed) that the nicer hotels and lodges might offer internet access.

Can I use my cell phone while in Rwanda?
In the more developed areas, you might be able to get a signal on your phone if you purchase a local SIM chip, but once you head towards the more remote parts of the country, it's improbable that you will get a signal.

Do I need power adapters?
Rwanda's 220-240v power requires a pllug adapter for Euro-style Schuko outlets and a transformer/ converter if you have 110v devices that cannot handle the 220-240v. 

What are the toilets like in Rwanda?
You may encounter a squat toilet on a tour, but while you are at your lodging, you will have western style bowl toilets. Just make sure to throw any waste paper into the basket next to the toilet rather than in the bowl.

Can I drink the water in Rwanda?
You cannot drink the water in Rwanda, so it's important to stay hydrated with the bottled or filtered water that will be made available by your tour operator.

Are credit cards accepted in Rwanda? Will I be able to find ATMs?
Don't count on using your card at ATMs or businesses in Rwanda - take out enough cash at the ATM upon entry into the country at the airport for souvenirs and any tips you plan to leave. The rest of the expenses are included in your Adventure Life tour.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
Absolutely. Traveling with insurance can save you thousands of dollars, and we offer some great promotions via TravelGuard on our Once You're Booked page.