Rwanda is the trip of a lifetime. Here’s why you should go.

Africa has long captured the imagination of travelers with vivid scenes like dense rainforests with monkeys gracefully traversing through treetops and thrilling safaris through sunbaked savannas.

With an area roughly equivalent to the U.S. state of Maryland, Rwanda boasts majestic landscapes and an agreeable climate across its five endlessly charming provinces. The country is also a captivating tale of rebirth from the darkness of genocide into a present status as a thriving leader in wildlife conservation.

Kigali Province (Kigali City) 

Through the winding streets of Kigali—the capital city anchoring the province of the same name—it's easy to see how Rwanda earns its nickname of "Land of a Thousand Hills." Stand atop the lofty balconies at Kivu Noir and observe the rolling  terrain with a savory cup of locally produced coffee in hand. Both the Radisson Blu and Kigali Serena hotels pair fantastic views with cozy accommodations and, given the province’s central location, make for ideal stays for basing trips into other corners of the country.

Take in the lush urban greenery at Nyandungu Eco Park, one of the many examples of Rwanda’s commitment to conservation. Taste local cuisine at the on-site restaurant, get lost in the bamboo trails, absorb the atmosphere on a bike ride, or sit and admire the colorful flora which acts as a filtration system for the dynamic urban wetlands.

Those wanting a glimpse into city life should head to the Kimironko Market. The busy stalls, energetic with the movements of eager shoppers, are filled with diverse wares (vegetables, fruits, handcrafted goods, tapestries, and much more) that come from all over Africa. 

No trip to Rwanda is complete without a stop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Visitors should be aware of the heavy and graphic subject matter within this somber testament to the devastation in 1994 that claimed more than 800,000 Rwandan lives, and it is advised to take some time for processing afterward. The museum, which comes with an audio guide that provides detail on the numbered stops throughout, begins with the beautifully elaborate gardens outside.

The designs of these vibrant spaces—symbolic of Rwanda's struggles and renewal—also hold the remains of 250,000 people.  

It’s difficult to fully prepare for the visceral impact of the powerfully moving exhibits found inside the complex. The accounts of the genocide and what led up to it—with difficult-to-comprehend brutality that wiped out nearly 20 percent of the population in only 100 days, or more than six people every minute—spare nothing in terms of raw weight and emotion. The memorial leaves a deeply profound sense of presence and a changed outlook on the past as prologue into the future, and teaches valuable lessons for how to recognize the warning signs so nothing like it ever happens again.

Northern Province (Volcanoes National Park, Musanze) 

To the north, the hilly topography sharpens into jagged peaks that make up Volcanoes National Park. This is the home of the renowned mountain gorilla, and where Dian Fossey, celebrated primatologist and author of Gorillas in the Mist, once conducted her studies.

(The renegade scientist who taught us to love gorillas)

Rwanda takes the protection of gorillas very seriously, as evidenced by the Kwita Izina, which is held annually here. The ceremony, in which young gorillas born the previous year are formally given names, features an assembly of distinguished international scientists, artists, doctors, athletes, and celebrities who bestow the carefully chosen monikers on the gorillas. You can learn more about these fascinating creatures, the efforts to safeguard them, and Dian Fossey's uplifting story at the nearby Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Gorilla treks are also available. These guided trips, with proceeds reinvested in conservation and local communities, cater to all levels, ranging from leisurely strolls in the woods to strenuous climbs. Hike through rugged volcanic countryside that crescendos into unforgettable, up-close encounters with gorillas in their natural habitat.

Find relaxation in the peaceful quarters, alluring sauna, and leafy surroundings of Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel, or try the lodgings at Red Rocks Rwanda in Musanze. Both provide means for planning your day with the apes, and the latter includes additional cultural immersion opportunities. Try a crash course in basket weaving, dance to the drums of a rhythmic musical performance, or partake in the hands-on experience of concocting banana beer, a popular local delicacy.

Western Province (Gishwati Mukura National Park, Lake Kivu) 

Westward, the hills break to reveal the idyllic splendor of Lake Kivu, one of the African Great Lakes. The lake is known for the otherworldly image of its shimmering surface blending seamlessly into the sky, leaving doubt where one ends and the other begins. There’s no better way to place yourself inside this surreal spectacle than renting a kayak rental and taking in the unbeatable fiery sunsets on the water. The Lake Kivu Serena, Cleo Lake Kivu, and the Mantis Kivu Marina Bay resorts are all good lodging options and offer kayak rentals.

Lake Kivu is a major coffee-producing region, thanks to its relatively high elevation, tropical climate, and nutrient-rich volcanic soil. Coffee aficionados should take a tour at Kigufi Coffee, where you'll learn of the entire process of coffee farming—from planting to harvest—along with plenty of fresh, flavorful cups of the energizing beverage to sip throughout.  

Gorillas are hardly the only noteworthy simian species to see in Rwanda: the twin forests of Gishwati Mukura National Park are an excellent place for spotting spirited chimpanzees swinging through the trees. Full-day excursions, which typically depart very early in the morning, can last until dusk, so dress and pack accordingly. During your search, keep an eye out for the namesake hues of the carefree golden monkeys that call the area home.

Southern Province (Nyungwe National Park, Nyanza) 

Rwanda's equatorial latitude makes it prime territory for rainforests. Descend southward to surround yourself with the sounds of nature inside the lush canopies of Nyungwe National Park. The jungle, also home to the headwaters of the Nile River, has many options for taking in its verdant mystique. Feel the adrenaline rush flying through the canopies at blistering speeds via the zip lines, or hike hills where the branches often rustle with groupings of black-and-white colobus monkeys. If the sight of playful primates around Rwanda makes you wish you could explore the woods their way, take the stimulating Gisakura Rope Course, with several obstacles are sure to channel your inner ape.

The King's Palace in Nyanza has other engaging perspectives into Rwanda's past. Stepping into the remarkable art deco structure, once the monarchy’s primary dwelling after its construction in 1932, will reveal antiquated artifacts and weathered relics that tell stories from the country’s colonial era. Outside, the conspicuous beehive-shaped hut, a replica of the traditional regal residence, might catch your eye. Marvel at the deceptively huge interior, the detailed craftsmanship of the thatched walls, and the noticeable silence. Finally, don’t miss the nearby enclosure housing the Inyambo cattle and their massively long horns. Listen for the melodies sung to them by the groundskeepers, a holdover from the days when the animals were ornately decorated for use in royal rituals.

Eastern Province (Akagera National Park) 

Those seeking to be fully mesmerized by one of Africa's trademark adventures— expeditions into windswept savannas with waving grass, squat acacias, and roaming packs of larger-than-life fauna—will find these desires realized beyond the gates of Akagera National Park. Packing a quality camera and setting aside a few days to tackle the enormous sanctuary is recommended. The Epic Hotel & Suites, located beyond the northern entrance, and the Akagera Game Lodge  inside the park boundaries are both practical bases for trips into the refuge.

(Witness an extraordinary wildlife restoration at Rwanda’s Akagera National Park)

Safaris here quickly instill a spirit of discovery after initial sightings give way to a feverish scanning of the horizon upon grasping the extent to which Akagera teems with exotic animals. Curiosity is frequently rewarded with exhilarating chance  encounters with galloping zebras, grazing giraffes, wandering warthogs, playful baboons, and all of Africa's big five. Investments in conservation, involving tracking and poaching countermeasures, ensure that future generations will continued to be floored by Akagera's wonders.

The journey is hardly limited to the land: The boat tour of Lake Ihema will find the aquatic side of Akagera is every bit as wild as the terrestrial portions. You can see wwooping ibises, submerged hordes of hippos, thirsty antelopes on the shoreline bathing pachyderms, and intimidating Nile crocodiles lazing in the sun.

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