Remarkable Rwanda

This corner or Northwestern Rwanda is a breathtaking, unforgettable place where culture, adventure and conservation intersect. The PNV -as it's known by locals-, lies along the Virunga Mountains, with 8 ancient volcanoes, which are shared by Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Just a short two-hour drive from Kigali, the park is a central location for exploring some distinctly Rwandan experiences. While a visit to the mountain gorillas is often a top of visitors, the dramatic landscape also offers thrilling hiking and visits to the fascinating golden monkeys.

PNV is also one of Rwanda's conservation epicenters, where many non-profit organizations base their operations.

Located in the Southwest corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is an untouched natural rainforest that is filled with exciting biodiversity.

Covering over 1000 square kilometers, Nyungwe is surely one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforest. It’s believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity.

Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primate species (including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus), it’s also a birder’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal.

A stunning National Park where the past has been revived, Akagera combines well with Nyungwe and the Volcanoes NP to offer a great safari element. It is home to many large plains game species as well as species restricted to the papyrus swamps, such as the Sitatunga and the sought-after Shoebill Stork.

Notable plains games include elephant, buffalo, topi, zebra, waterbuck, roan antelope and eland. Other antelopes are duiker, oribi, bohor reedbuck, klipspringer, bushbuck and impala.

Of the primates, olive baboons, vervets and the secretive blue monkey are seen during the day, with bushbabies often seen on night drives.

Relax and refresh along Rwanda's coastline.

Lake Kivu is stunningly beautiful lake and an incredible place to visit. With no hippos or crocodiles and crystal clear, clean water, it is also one of the safest lakes in Africa. If you're surprised that Rwanda has a beach, you're not alone. Rubavu (also known as Gisenyi) is a waterfront town located on the shores of Lake Kivu.

At only an hour away from Volcanoes National Park, Rubavu is a great way to unwind after trekking adventures. Rubavu marks the beginning of the Congo Nile Trail, which extends 227km to Rusizi, and has plenty of biking and hiking trails to fulfill those who crave some more adventure. Rubavu is also known for its agro-tourism experiences, with many tea and coffee plantations nearby.

Kigali is the dynamic capital at the heart of Rwanda. Peacefully nestled along picturesque hilltops, Kigali is a thriving African city immediately notable for its cleanliness, orderliness, and hospitality.

Kigali is a great place to begin or end any Rwandan journey, as it's conveniently located in the geographic center of the country.

The city is clean and safe, with extremely welcoming people. Travelers will enjoy exploring the great cultural activities - including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, several award-winning museums, a burgeoning music scene, and some of East Africa's most memorable dining experiences.