Rwanda often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills (Le Pays des Mille Collines), is a country full of surreal experiences that go far beyond genocide and the endangered gorillas. The scenically beautiful small country is adorned with majestic mountains, stunning inland beaches, bamboo forests and the last remaining mountain gorillas on earth. A roll-call of Rwanda’s neighbours includes safari destinations of Tanzania, and “off the beaten track” destinations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Burundi.
Here are 10 unique experiences you need to have in Rwanda:
Spend Time at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial
Photo Source: One World Travel
Kigali is the first place to have an eclectic combination of modernity and tradition. The capital city is the opposite of everything you may think of an African city; safe, clean and sophisticated. Yet, a tinge of tragedy lies in the city seen at the Gisozi Genocide Memorial. The Gisozi Genocide Memorial tells the stories of the one million people slaughtered in 100 days.
Savour the Delicious Giant Gilled Fish
Photo Source: A Year+ in Kigali
Before you step out of Kigali, visit the Nyamirambo neighbourhood, a Muslim quarter that is vibrant and full of life. Here, you can enjoy a delicious delicacy – big grilled fishes stuffed with spices and onions. This mouth-watering delicacy is served at any of the local restaurants in the neigbourhood.
Spend Time at the Famous Hotel Rwanda
If you have watched the award-winning movie, Hotel Rwanda, you will want to visit the hotel (Hôtel des Mille Collines) that managed to hide 1268 people during the 1994 genocide. Pay homage to the humanitarian support conducted here and you can even stay the night too.
A Canopy Stroll in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Photo Source: Gorilla Tracking Uganda Rwanda
Get suspended 50 meters above the Nyungwe Forest National Park and watch butterflies, birds, and primates in a way you have never seen them before. The experience will leave you breathless as you take a canopy walk through the swaying suspended bridge.
Shop in the Kimironko Market
The Kimironko Market is rush of strong smells and bright colours that hit your sensory organs. The market is filled with fresh vegetables, fruits and food laid out neatly on tables. The tree tomato (tamarillo) a fruit with explosive and a slightly bitter taste is one fruit you shouldn’t miss buying.
Take a Volcano Hike
Photo Source: Rwanda Safaris
Only a few places on earth can boast of volcano hiking experience, and Rwanda has dormant volcanic peaks that have created an extraordinary natural skyline to behold in the Musanze area. You can start with an extinct volcano in Mount Biskoke with a crater lake on its top and enjoy your hike.
Go For A Gorilla Tracking
The Virunga Mountain Range is home to the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world. The range shared between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda is a rare place to visit. Tracking gorillas can be expensive but it is worth every time spent.
Try Goat Brochettes
Photo Source: afoodiescollective.com
Try eating Goat Brochettes, the country’s national dish. There are other versions of Brochettes like the Beef Brochettes and the Chicken Brochettes. Every restaurant, pub, and bar has some of these versions and can be eaten with vegetable. You have not eaten the best meal in Rwanda if you have not tasted the Goat Brochettes
Visit the Coffee Washing Station
Photo Source: Ediblenm.com
If there is something you will not miss in Rwanda, it is the number of coffee cafes that have enveloped most corners of the streets with the sweet smell of coffee. However, we will want you to visit the Kinunu Coffee Washing Station near the lakeside in Gisenyi. Taste some of the finest Rwanda coffees when you come here to learn about coffee making.
Kayak in Lake Kivu
Photo Source: Secretcompass.com
The still colourful water of Lake Kivu is breathtaking especially when you watch the sunrise or sunset in the middle of the lake. Take a kayaking trip along the coast of the lake and the memories are unforgettable.
Rwanda is an amazing destination that you have to visit, there are loads of things to do and see – and they are absolutely free. If you love this article, kindly share with your friends and family.
