Rwanda 7 Day Itinerary

Rwanda 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

  • Arrival: Arrive at Kigali International Airport (KGL)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Kigali, such as the Hotel des Mille Collines or similar
  • Afternoon: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre (free admission) to learn about Rwanda’s history and pay respects to the victims of the 1994 genocide
  • Evening: Explore Kigali city, visit the Kimironko Market for a taste of local culture and try some traditional Rwandan cuisine

Day 2: Kigali to Volcanoes National Park

  • Morning: Drive to Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2 hours)
  • Activity: Take a guided hike in the park to track mountain gorillas (permits required, $1,500 per person)
  • Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near the park, such as the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge or similar

Day 3: Volcanoes National Park

  • Morning: Continue gorilla tracking or take an alternative hike in the park
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby villages and interact with the local communities
  • Evening: Relax at the lodge and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains

Day 4: Volcanoes National Park to Lake Kivu

  • Morning: Drive to Lake Kivu (approx. 2 hours)
  • Activity: Take a boat tour on the lake or relax on the beach
  • Accommodation: Overnight at a hotel near the lake, such as the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel or similar

Day 5: Lake Kivu

  • Morning: Visit the nearby tea plantations and learn about Rwanda’s tea production
  • Afternoon: Explore the lakeside town of Gisenyi and try some water sports
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake

Day 6: Lake Kivu to Nyungwe Forest National Park

  • Morning: Drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park (approx. 4 hours)
  • Activity: Take a guided hike in the park to spot chimpanzees and other primates
  • Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near the park, such as the Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel or similar

Day 7: Return to Kigali

  • Morning: Drive back to Kigali (approx. 4 hours)
  • Activity: Visit the Caplaki Craft Village for some last-minute souvenir shopping
  • Departure: Depart from Kigali International Airport

Things to Know

  • Rwanda is a cashless economy, so it’s recommended to have a credit or debit card
  • The country has a strict dress code, and visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events
  • French, English, and Kinyarwanda are the official languages, but many locals also speak Swahili

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance through the Rwandan embassy or consulate
  • A single-entry visa costs $30, while a multiple-entry visa costs $50

Transportation

  • The best way to get around Rwanda is by hiring a car and driver for the duration of your trip
  • Public transportation is available, but it can be unreliable and uncomfortable
  • Domestic flights are also an option, but they can be expensive

Health and Safety

  • Rwanda has made significant progress in combatting malaria, but visitors should still take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing
  • The country has a high altitude, so visitors may experience some fatigue or shortness of breath
  • Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Kigali, so it’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuations

Other Tips

  • Rwanda is a very clean country, and littering is prohibited
  • The country has a vibrant cultural scene, with many traditional dance performances and music festivals throughout the year
  • Visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events