Lesser-known travel destinations in Rwanda
Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills, offers diverse attractions for tourists Rwanda’s amazing scenery and hospitable people offer unique experiences in one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife including the vulnerable mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, montane rainforest, and rolling plains. Adventure safaris in Akagera National Park, relax by the shores of Lake Kivu.
Though many travelers come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the magnificent gorillas and chimpanzees, there is so much more to see and experience in Rwanda. In this case, focus is put on uncovering some of the lesser-known gems but important attractions that provide wonderful lifetime experiences.
Gishwati Mukura National Park
This is a newly gazetted park comprising of two forests, Gishwati and Mukura. It is located near Lake Kivu in the north-western part of Rwanda. The history of this forest reserve dates from as far back as the 1970s. From the early 1970s up to the late 1980s, it was intact and covered by forests but was later destroyed in 1994 by the large number of Rwandans who fled their homes to seek refuge in this forest. As a result, the forest was mercilessly cleared for settlement which led to its destruction and death of wildlife creatures that resided there.
From that time, the forest was less attractive for tourism not until 2007 when the Rwandan government and the Great Ape Trust collaborated to form a national conservation park to protect the rich biodiversity of the place. Part of the reserve has been restored; tree species have been planted, and more wildlife has been attracted to the park. The park now shelters over 20 chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, and L’Hoest monkeys and over 395 bird species. the park is currently open for a few activities like chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey tracking, waterfall hikes, and guided nature walks.
The twin lakes of Bulera and Ruhondo
The twin lakes are lava-dammed lakes located on the fringes of Volcanoes National Park. They act as an excellent diversion and travel option for any body returning from the gorilla trekking excursion. The lakes provide amazing views of the surrounding steep and terraced hills.
A boat ride on the lakes helps you to explore the lakes and the surrounding islands like Bushongo, Muhabura, Munanira and Cuza. The tops of the hills that surround the lakes are excellent for picnics and provide breath taking views of the lakes, birds and the surrounding hills.
Chamudongo forest
This is an isolated forest covering only 19 square kilometers and is part of Nyungwe National Park located in the south-western part of Rwanda. The forest remains untouched due to its location on steep slopes that cannot be cultivated by members of the near by local community. It is surrounded by tea plantations and eucalyptus trees.
This forest was at first connected to Nyungwe Forest Park but due to deforestation and poaching, the forest became isolated. Although it is isolated, Cyamudongo is still considered as part of Nyungwe National Park and one the main places where visitors go for chimpanzee trekking and other interesting adventures. It is a home to one habituated chimpanzee group with over 30 members and other primates like L’Hoest monkeys, Mona monkeys, and Colobus monkeys, and several bird and plant species. Chamudongo is regarded as the best place to trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park because they can be spotted as they reside in a small, forested area and can’t escape to the surrounding open land.
So, as you tailor your safari to Nyungwe National Park, Cyamudongo is the best place for chimpanzee trekking and birding excursions.
Nkombo Island
This another hidden getaway located in Rusizi region, Rwanda’s western province. Nkombo island is one of the islands on Lake Kivu and is one of the best spots one can visit after chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. it is only 36 kilometers from Kitabi, Nyungwe park western gate and is easily accessed by boat 28 minutes from Cyangugu town which is also the ending point of the Congo -Nile biking trail from Nyungwe.
Nkombo island is significantly known and accessed by may Rwandans as place of prayer and receiving blessings at the time of disaster. Its also historically recorded that every enthroned king of Rwanda had to reach this island for blessings and is thus commonly known as the “island of Truthfulness”.
The island has improved sanitation facilities and is favorable for both residents and tourists. When you visit this island expect several water activities like kayaking, paddling and boat trips and getting to the island is adventure itself. While on the island, you can visit some of the tea and coffee plantations owned by small scale farmers.
Donate to the local Batwa families there who engage in making local hand crafts. Contact your local guide on what you can donate to other members of the local community say, money, stationery, food, soap and many others that fit your ability.
Nkombo island also acts as a quick getaway to Kahuzi Biega National Park in DRC Congo for low land gorilla trekking. from this island you can connect to DRC Congo using the bridge that connects to Bukavu from Cyangugu town.
Nyamyumba hot springs
This is another hidden treasure in the western part of Rwanda.
The hot springs are located near the town of Gisenyi in Rubavu district, on the shores of Lake Kivu, and are known locally for their immune-boosting qualities.
The springs are relatively unexploited and thus not well recognized on Rwanda’s tourism map, they rarely get overcrowded, providing a calm experience free of tourism interruption. The springs are practically mineral rich thus accredited to healing properties.
On a visit to the springs, expect little hiking, the place is open to guests day and night and there is a small entrance fee and a separate fee for those who wish to bathe in the springs.
A visit to Nyamyumba hot springs is one of the interesting immersions into Rwanda’s nature and culture, relaxation, and a wonderful connection to the natural world.
Musanze caves
Musanze caves are a newly opened up tourist adventure in Musanze 2 kilometers close to volcanoes national park. The caves are over 52 and are said to be a result of volcanic activity believed to have been formed by basaltic layers that came from Mount Bisoke and Sabinyo. The cave is often tailored to the gorilla trekking safari. The cave has well-set-up walkways and stairs as well as set-up trails that help you take your adventure through the cave.
Inside the cave is a huge population of bats that can be seen in the different rooms of the cave. Some plant species have grown on the walls. A guided trek through the cave takes 2-3 hours as you listen to the local guide explaining the history and importance of the caves.
Rugezi wetland
This is one of Rwanda’s best birding destinations found in Buberuka highlands east of Lake Bulera in the northern province. The swamp sits on a flooded valley covering about 20 kilometers long, surrounded by beautiful hills, ridges, and highlands.
Rugezi wetland is home to over 43 bird species including the papyrus gonolek, yellow-browed cistril, slender-billed starling, grey-crowned cranes, Grauer’s swamp warblers, flycatchers, papyrus canary, and many others.
Besides hosting birding safaris, visitors to the swamp can also engage in guided village walks where you get to interact with the locals, and tour tea plantations and the processing factory in the area.
From the swamp, you can tailor your safari to Volcanoes National Park to participate in any of the activities offered by the park like gorilla trekking, mountain hiking visiting Dian Fossey’s tomb.
Butare tourism center
This place is often referred to as Rwanda’s cultural capital located in Huye in the southern part of the country. This place is known for its remarkable cultural attractions, history, beauty, and abundant wildlife. it’s a small city located on Mount Kigali, a perfect destination for nature walks as you enjoy the greenery landscape.
While on your Rwanda safari, this is one of the places that you should not miss out on as a nature lover. Expect to find a bustling market with a variety of local goods, foods and beverages, handmade crafts traditional clothing.
The National Museum of Rwanda is found in Butare. It offers an opportunity to travelers to learn more about Rwanda’s history, post-colonial governments, and the Tutsi monarchy. Its a collection of traditional musical instruments, textiles, and pottery.
Kigali genocide memorial and Gikorongo genocide memorial sites are also found in Butare. These places are a powerful testament to the commemoration of the 1994 genocide. They also serve as reminders of peace and reconciliation.
Other important places in Butare include the University of Rwanda the country’s topmost education institution, the National Library of Rwanda (Ethnographic Museum), Nyanza Kings Palace and many churches for different religious denominations.
Nyamunini Island
It is also known as Napoleon Island, as its shape reflects the hat of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. It’s a small island on Lake Kivu in Kibuye that covers only 1 square kilometer but is filled with amazing natural beauty and wonders. It is home to a large colony of fruit bats of Eidolon helium species, which render a favourite tourist attraction. While on this land, tourists can also get involved in hiking through the green forests through the well-marked trails as they enjoy the amazing beauty of the lake and carry out birding. The island has beautiful cool beaches suitable for relaxation while on holiday.
