Why Rwanda Should Be on Your Bucket List
Gorilla trekking, wild encounters, and the luxury of true connection
Gorilla trekking, wild encounters, and the luxury of true connection
In the spring of 2022, I traveled to Rwanda for the first time—and it was unforgettable. What began as a dream of seeing mountain gorillas in the wild turned into a transformative journey through one of the most beautiful, welcoming, and soulful countries I've ever visited.
We landed in Kigali and checked in at The Retreat, a serene boutique resort that's the perfect spot to unwind after the long journey from the U.S. We routed through Nairobi, and after nearly 24 hours of travel, The Retreat's tranquil gardens and understated elegance felt like exactly what we needed.
Little did I know I'd be staying there a bit longer than planned—after our gorilla trek, I tested positive for COVID and ended up staying nearly 10 days recovering. I was completely fine, but this was a good reminder of why travel insurance is non-negotiable for big trips like this. (More on that later.)
Akagera National Park: Big Five Safari in Eastern Rwanda
Next, we made our way to Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda, where you can see all of the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo. This park has one of Africa's great conservation success stories: once on the brink of disappearing, it's now thriving under African Parks management and home to astonishing biodiversity.
We spent an afternoon on a tranquil boat safari on Lake Ihema, where we spotted the rare black rhino drinking at the water's edge, along with hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species. The landscape here is stunning—rolling savannahs, woodlands, and shimmering lakes stretching to the horizon.
A night at the Mantis Akagera Game Lodge gave us time to soak in the surroundings before a classic game drive the next morning. We spotted elephants, buffalo, zebra, and giraffe roaming freely across the plains. For safari lovers who want a taste of classic African wildlife before gorilla trekking, Akagera is a perfect addition to your itinerary.
Best for: Travelers combining gorilla trekking with Big Five safari experiences, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, those wanting diverse Rwanda experiences beyond primates
Duration: 2–3 nights ideal; can be done as 1-night add-on
Timing: Year-round, though dry season (June–September, December–February) offers optimal game viewing
Nyungwe Forest: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walks
From Akagera, we crossed the country to western Rwanda, stopping for a thrilling canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest—one of Africa's oldest montane rainforests and home to 13 primate species. The canopy walkway is suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, offering bird's-eye views of the lush wilderness below. It felt like walking through the sky.
We then settled into One&Only Nyungwe House, a luxurious retreat tucked within a working tea plantation. The property features just 22 rooms, each with private terraces overlooking rolling tea fields and forest-covered mountains. This is barefoot luxury in the truest sense—elegant, intimate, and deeply connected to the landscape.
Nyungwe is also the jumping-off point for chimpanzee trekking. With expert trackers, we hiked two hours into the forest and found ourselves face-to-face with a lively chimp family—juveniles swinging through branches, mothers grooming their young, and dominant males calling to each other. The experience felt intimate, raw, and humbling in a way that's hard to describe.
Best for: Primate enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, travelers wanting both gorillas and chimps, wellness seekers (One&Only spa experiences)
Duration: 2–3 nights recommended
Timing: Year-round; dry season (June–September, December–February) offers easier trekking conditions
Lake Kivu: Coffee, Culture & Lakeside Serenity
Afterward, we made our way to Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes, for a scenic cruise and a deep dive into Rwanda's exceptional coffee culture. The lake stretches along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, with lush hills cascading down to crystal-clear waters.
We stayed at the Mantis Kivu Marina Bay, perched right on the shoreline with beautiful views and calm breezes. By day, we paddled out on kayaks, visited local coffee cooperatives where farmers guided us from bean to brew (some of the finest Arabica coffee in the world), and cycled along portions of the Congo Nile Trail—a scenic route winding through banana plantations, terraced hillsides, and welcoming rural villages.
Lake Kivu offered the perfect counterbalance to our adventure-filled days: pure relaxation, cultural connection, and that feeling of slowing down to truly absorb where you are.
Best for: Coffee lovers, cyclists (Congo Nile Trail), cultural immersion seekers, those wanting lakeside relaxation between trekking activities
Duration: 2–3 nights recommended
Timing: Year-round; most pleasant during dry months
Volcanoes National Park: The Gorilla Trekking Experience
And then came the moment we'd all been waiting for: gorilla trekking.
We arrived at One&Only Gorilla's Nest, a jungle-chic sanctuary set at the base of Volcanoes National Park. The property features 21 treehouse-style suites with dramatic volcano views, each designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. This is luxury reimagined for nature lovers—sophisticated yet grounded, elegant yet wild.
That evening, we were briefed on the rules and expectations for the next morning's trek. Rwanda takes gorilla conservation very seriously. Each gorilla family can only be visited by one small group (maximum 8 people) for one hour per day. Yes, it's expensive—$1,500 per person for a gorilla permit—but once you do it, you understand why it must be this way.
The Trek Itself: What to Expect
After a pre-dawn start, we drove to the park headquarters for our 7:00 AM briefing. Rangers explained the day's logistics, assigned us to a specific gorilla family based on fitness levels and trekking preferences, and paired us with trackers who had already located the gorillas that morning.
The hike took us 75 minutes through misty forest—steep in places, muddy in others, but never overwhelming. Our guide explained gorilla behavior, pointed out medicinal plants, and kept us informed of the family's movements via radio.
And then, suddenly, we found them.
A full family of mountain gorillas, lounging, playing, grooming, and eating—completely unfazed by our presence. A silverback sat just feet away, his sheer size and calm presence commanding respect. Juveniles tumbled over each other, playing like human toddlers. A mother cradled her infant, occasionally glancing in our direction with what I can only describe as gentle curiosity.
We spent just over an hour with them, only feet away. It was, in a word, life-changing.
You're not allowed to speak loudly, touch the gorillas, or use flash photography. These rules protect both the gorillas (who are vulnerable to human diseases) and the visitors (silverbacks are powerful and protective). But within those boundaries, the experience is profoundly intimate. You're witnessing wild animals in their natural habitat, living exactly as they would without human presence.
When our hour ended, we hiked back down, exhilarated, exhausted, and emotionally overwhelmed in the best possible way.
Gorilla Trekking Logistics: What You Need to Know
Permit Cost:
$1,500 per person for foreign non-residents
$500 for foreign residents of Rwanda and citizens/residents of other African countries
$200 for Rwandan nationals and East African Community citizens
Note: A discounted permit of $1,050 is available if you're also visiting Akagera or Nyungwe National Parks during your trip.
What's Included in the Permit:
Park entrance fee
Expert ranger guide and trackers
One hour with a habituated gorilla family
Conservation funding (revenue supports anti-poaching patrols, veterinary services, forest surveillance, and community programs)
What's NOT Included:
Accommodation, meals, transportation to/from park
Porter services (highly recommended—$20–30 tip; they carry your daypack and assist on steep terrain)
Tipping for guides and trackers (standard $10–20 per person)
Age Requirement:
Minimum age is 15 years (children under 15 not permitted due to risk of transmitting airborne diseases to gorillas)
Fitness Level:
Moderate fitness required; treks range from 1–6 hours depending on gorilla family location
Terrain includes steep slopes, muddy paths, dense vegetation
Porters are available to carry gear and assist with difficult sections
Group Size:
Maximum 8 people per gorilla family per day (ensuring minimal disturbance)
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking:
Dry season (June–September, December–February): Optimal trekking conditions, less mud, easier terrain, lower malaria risk, clearer photography
Wet season (March–May, October–November): Fewer tourists, more affordable accommodation, gorillas stay at lower elevations (shorter treks), lush green landscapes
Important: Rwanda's equatorial climate means rain is possible year-round. Bring waterproof clothing regardless of season.
What to Pack:
Long pants and long-sleeved shirt (protection from nettles and insects)
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Rain jacket and waterproof daypack cover
Gardening gloves (protection from stinging plants)
Camera with no flash
Water and snacks
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Booking Timeline:
Gorilla permits sell out months in advance, particularly during peak season (June–September, December–February). Book 6–12 months ahead to secure your preferred dates.
I handle all permit procurement, ensuring your dates are locked in and coordinating with Rwanda Development Board on your behalf.
The People of Rwanda: Joy, Resilience & Hospitality
Throughout the trip, I was struck by how joyful and resilient the Rwandan people are. The country's painful past is never hidden, and a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a sobering but essential experience. The memorial honors the more than one million lives lost during the 1994 genocide, providing historical context and personal stories that stay with you long after you leave.
But Rwanda is not defined by its history—it is shaped by it, and stronger because of it. In the decades since, Rwanda has become one of Africa's safest, cleanest, and most progressive countries. Kigali feels vibrant and welcoming, with art galleries, world-class restaurants, thriving coffee culture, and genuine warmth from locals who are proud of their country and eager to share it with visitors.
Best for: Cultural immersion, history and education seekers, anyone wanting to understand Rwanda's journey and remarkable transformation
Duration: Half-day to full-day visit (usually combined with arrival or departure day in Kigali)
Sample Rwanda Itineraries: Design Your Perfect Journey
Option 1: Classic Gorillas & Chimps (7 Days)
Day 1: Arrive Kigali, check in at The Retreat or Kigali Serena Hotel, city tour including Genocide Memorial
Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (2.5 hours), settle into One&Only Gorilla's Nest
Day 3: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 4: Optional golden monkey trekking or second gorilla trek, afternoon relaxation
Day 5: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest (5–6 hours), check in at One&Only Nyungwe House
Day 6: Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk in Nyungwe
Day 7: Transfer to Kigali (5 hours), depart or extend with overnight
Best for: First-time Rwanda visitors, primate enthusiasts, photographers, couples celebrating milestones
Option 2: Complete Rwanda Experience (10 Days)
Day 1: Arrive Kigali, city tour, Genocide Memorial, overnight at The Retreat
Day 2: Transfer to Akagera National Park (2.5 hours), afternoon boat safari on Lake Ihema
Day 3: Morning game drive in Akagera, transfer to Volcanoes (4 hours)
Day 4: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Day 5: Optional golden monkey trekking or cultural village visit
Day 6: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest via Lake Kivu (scenic drive)
Day 7: Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk in Nyungwe
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Kivu (2 hours), coffee cooperative visit, lakeside relaxation
Day 9: Congo Nile Trail cycling or kayaking, cultural village visit
Day 10: Transfer to Kigali (3.5 hours), depart
Best for: Travelers wanting comprehensive Rwanda immersion combining wildlife, primates, culture, and relaxation
Option 3: Luxury Rwanda Safari & Gorillas (12 Days)
Day 1–2: Kigali arrival, city exploration, Genocide Memorial, art galleries
Day 3–5: Akagera National Park (Big Five safari, boat safaris, game drives)
Day 6–8: Volcanoes National Park (gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, cultural experiences)
Day 9–10: Nyungwe Forest (chimpanzee trekking, canopy walk, tea plantation tours)
Day 11–12: Lake Kivu (coffee culture, Congo Nile Trail, lakeside spa treatments, cultural immersion)
Best for: Luxury travelers, photographers, honeymooners, those wanting ultimate Rwanda immersion without rushing
Where to Stay: Luxury Properties I Recommend
Kigali:
The Retreat by Heaven – Serene boutique resort, perfect post-flight decompression, beautiful gardens, excellent dining
Kigali Serena Hotel – Classic luxury, central location, business and leisure travelers
Marriott Kigali – Contemporary luxury, rooftop dining, city views
Volcanoes National Park:
One&Only Gorilla's Nest – Jungle-chic luxury, treehouse suites, dramatic volcano views, spa, exceptional dining, VIP recognition when booked through me
Bisate Lodge – Ultra-luxury eco-lodge, six villas, reforestation focus, conservation-minded travelers
Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge – Community-owned property, cultural immersion, authenticity combined with comfort
Nyungwe Forest:
One&Only Nyungwe House – Tea plantation luxury, 22 rooms, spa, exceptional service, VIP perks when booked through me
Nyungwe House (budget-friendly alternative) – Comfortable mid-range property, forest views, excellent base for chimp trekking
Akagera National Park:
Magashi Camp – Ultra-luxury tented camp, limited-capacity, Big Five access, lake views
Mantis Akagera Game Lodge – Mid-range comfort, stunning location, good value
Lake Kivu:
Mantis Kivu Marina Bay – Lakeside elegance, beautiful views, comfortable rooms
Lake Kivu Serena Hotel – Larger property, beachfront access, family-friendly
Why Book Rwanda Through Me
Exclusive VIP Perks at One&Only Properties
When you book One&Only Gorilla's Nest or One&Only Nyungwe House through me, you receive exclusive benefits not available when booking direct:
Complimentary breakfast for two daily
$100+ resort credit per stay
Priority room upgrades (based on availability)
Personalized welcome amenities
Early check-in and late check-out (when available)
Direct management coordination ensuring VIP recognition
Gorilla Permit Procurement
Gorilla permits sell out 6–12 months in advance. I handle all permit procurement directly with Rwanda Development Board, ensuring:
Your preferred dates are secured
Permits are paid and confirmed before you arrive
Backup options if your first-choice dates aren't available
Coordination with your overall itinerary timing
Seamless Multi-Destination Coordination
Rwanda itineraries involve multiple parks, transfers, and activities. I coordinate:
Private driver-guides throughout your journey
Helicopter transfers (optional for faster, scenic connections)
All accommodation bookings with consistent VIP treatment
Activity reservations (chimpanzee permits, canopy walks, boat safaris)
Pre-arrival coordination with each property
Emergency support while traveling
Travel Insurance Guidance
As my COVID experience demonstrated, travel insurance is essential for international trips—especially to Africa where medical evacuation coverage is critical. I provide:
Recommendations for comprehensive travel insurance providers
Coverage verification ensuring you're adequately protected
Claims assistance if needed
Cultural Sensitivity & Responsible Tourism
Rwanda has specific cultural expectations and conservation protocols. I brief you on:
Appropriate attire and behavior
Gorilla trekking rules and etiquette
Tipping guidelines for porters, guides, drivers
Responsible tourism practices supporting local communities
Rwanda Travel FAQs
How much does a Rwanda gorilla trekking trip cost?
Budget varies by accommodation level and trip length:
Mid-range (7 days): $8,000–$12,000 per person (includes permits, mid-range lodges, transfers, activities)
Luxury (7 days): $12,000–$18,000 per person (includes permits, luxury lodges like One&Only, VIP perks)
Ultra-luxury (10–12 days): $20,000–$30,000+ per person (includes multiple parks, helicopter transfers, flagship properties, comprehensive experiences)
Gorilla permit ($1,500) is the single largest cost, followed by accommodation and flights.
When is the best time to visit Rwanda?
Dry season (June–September, December–February): Optimal trekking conditions, less mud, better photography, peak season pricing
Wet season (March–May, October–November): Fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, gorillas at lower elevations (shorter treks), lush landscapes
Rwanda can be visited year-round; gorillas are tracked daily regardless of weather.
How fit do you need to be for gorilla trekking?
Moderate fitness is required. Treks range from 1–6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located. Terrain includes:
Steep slopes (porters assist)
Muddy paths (waterproof boots essential)
Dense vegetation (long sleeves/pants protect from nettles)
If you have mobility concerns, discuss with your guide—some gorilla families are more accessible than others.
Can you combine Rwanda with other African destinations?
Absolutely. Popular combinations include:
Rwanda + Tanzania: Gorilla trekking plus Serengeti safari and Zanzibar beaches (10–14 days)
Rwanda + Kenya: Gorillas plus Maasai Mara safari (10–12 days)
Rwanda + Uganda: Double gorilla trekking experience comparing both countries (8–10 days)
Rwanda + South Africa: Primates plus Big Five safari plus Cape Town (12–16 days)
Is Rwanda safe for tourists?
Rwanda is widely considered one of Africa's safest countries. Kigali consistently ranks as one of the continent's safest and cleanest cities. Standard travel precautions apply (don't carry excessive valuables, be aware of surroundings), but violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
What vaccinations do I need for Rwanda?
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include:
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Routine vaccinations (MMR, tetanus/diphtheria)
Malaria prophylaxis (discuss with your doctor)
Consult your doctor or travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.
Let's Design Your Rwanda Journey
From luxurious lodges and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters to powerful cultural moments and world-class hospitality, Rwanda is unlike anywhere else. If you're dreaming of a journey that's both soul-stirring and seamlessly executed, this is it.
I've walked the trails, stayed in the lodges, and met the people who make this country so special. Let's talk about how we can create a Rwanda itinerary that fits your travel style—whether it's a bucket-list honeymoon, a milestone birthday, your very first time on the African continent, or a comprehensive safari combining multiple East African destinations.
You'll receive:
Curated itinerary matching your interests and budget
Exclusive VIP perks at One&Only properties (breakfast, credits, upgrades)
Gorilla permit procurement and confirmation
Accommodation bookings at luxury and boutique properties
Private driver-guide coordination throughout
Activity reservations (chimps, canopy walks, game drives, boat safaris)
Pre-arrival coordination with each property
Travel insurance guidance and emergency support
Cultural briefings and responsible tourism practices
Your only job: Dream about meeting mountain gorillas in the wild, envision yourself hiking through misty forests, and trust the planning to someone who's been there and genuinely loves this extraordinary country.