Musanze- The Gorilla's Gateway Companion.
Traveling by road will take around 2.5 hours from Kigali. If anyone wants to stare into the eyes of a mountain gorilla, Musanze is the city of choice. This small town borders the Volcano National Park and is handy for anyone who wants to explore the adventures Rwanda has in store.
On Saturday morning, spend your time with park rangers trekking through beautiful, green forests on your way to see a family of gorillas. Not only is it a hike, but it is also a memorable experience. Next, enjoy some local coffee while relaxing on a lodge overlooking the volcanoes.
Don’t miss
Gorilla trekking (that one’s a given!)
Check out the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund; it is both inspiring and perfect for a photo opportunity.
Learn about the nearby Musanze Caves and their history and mysteries.
Pro Tip- Permits for trekking with the gorillas do tend to go quickly, so be sure to book them early, as the gorillas are a popular attraction!
Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s Beach Escape
Distance from Kigali- about 3.5 hours by road.
Yes, Rwanda does have beaches! Lake Kivu, which is shared with the DRC, is a beautiful and relaxing freshwater lake perfect for a weekend retreat.
Gisenyi is a beautiful town located on the edge of the lake, surrounded by palm trees, and has some delicious chilled cafes run by friendly locals. You can spend your daytime kayaking, swimming, or lounging on the sand. Later on, you can have some delicious grilled tilapia as you enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Weekend highlights-
You can take boat trips to nearby islands.
Explore Rubavu and enjoy hot springs and relax like never before.
Enjoy some of the best Rwandan coffee at a cafe by the lakeside and appreciate the view from the cafe.
Preferred. Nyungwe Forest National Park Deeply for the Nature Lover.
Distance from Kigali- ~5 hours by road.
If you enjoy foggy forests filled with age-old trees as well as monkeys screeching from above, Nyungwe is the place for you. It is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa and a biodiversity hotspot of the region.
Begin your weekend with a canopy walk and enjoy a thrilling suspension bridge above the forest. Join a guided chimpanzee trek with someone who is there for you early in the morning. Enjoy the drive as you share your adventures for a more delightful experience.
Do not forget-
The Canopy Walkway is also a wonderful photo point and Rwanda's best selfie spot.
The tea plantations in Gisakura, where you can sip some tea as well.
The drive back at Lake Kivu is a lovely place for a scenic break.
Tip- Dress smart; it gets windy out there.
Huye (Butare), Cultural Center of Rwanda
Distance from Kigali- Approx 3 hours by road
If history, heritage, and art combined into a splendid weekend are what you're looking for, then Butare, or Huye, is the next destination you should consider. It is frequently referred to as the cultural capital of Rwanda, a title it earned fairly.
Africa has a rich and diverse culture, and the Ethnographic Museum has one of the best collections on the continent. Strolling through the town gives you the chance to explore the local markets, mingle with the university kids, and take in the small-town African atmosphere of Huye, slow-paced, colorful, and full of life.
Don’t forget-
Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda
Museum of the King’s Palace (Nyanza region)
A local restaurant serving Rwandan isombe with plantains.
Akagera National Park, The Wild Side of Rwanda
Distance from Kigali- Approx 2.5 hours by road
If your idea of a perfect weekend is witnessing a lion, elephant, and zebra herd in a golden sunset, then look no further. Akagera National Park is the ideal safari destination in Rwanda.
A game drive will let you observe a group of giraffe as they graze on the Savannah along with hippos as they bask on the shores. You can also take a boat safari on Lake Ihema and observe some crocodiles (at a safe distance, of course).
What to Expect.
Big Five sightings (also yes to lions and rhinos!).
Over 480 birds for some serious birdwatching
Lodges with awe-inspiring sunsets
Bonus tip- the view is beautiful, so take a camera and binoculars.
Bonus Mini Trip
Don’t want a long drive? You’re in luck. Kigali has its mini getaways. A quick workout is to hike Mount Kigali, where you can get great city views. You can also visit a small cafe at the top of the mountain, Mera Neza Cafe, where you can grab some coffee and have a great view of the city.
Perfect weekend
Rwanda is small but mighty, as one might expect of the country. You can also observe waterfalls and observe gorillas, along with great views and vibes. You also have the rest of the week to unwind and enjoy yourself. This weekend, instead of wasting time looking and scrolling through photos of adventures, go out and create your own. Rwanda is remarkable, with smooth, friendly road and gorgeous sights that are ready to amaze you.
