Rwanda-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Kigali City Tour

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Kigali International Airport
    • Pick up your rental car or book a guided tour (optional)
    • Drive to the Kigali Memorial Centre (30 minutes) - a genocide museum that tells the story of Rwanda’s history and pays tribute to its victims
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Caplaki Craft Market (15 minutes from the memorial centre) for some local shopping and souvenirs
    • Head to the Kimironko Market (20 minutes from Caplaki) for a taste of Kigali’s street food and local atmosphere
    • Relax at your hotel or explore the city on foot
  • Evening
    • Enjoy traditional Rwandan cuisine and live music at a local restaurant (e.g. Hotel des Mille Collines)

Day 2: Akagera National Park

  • Morning
    • Depart Kigali early for Akagera National Park (approx. 2 hours)
    • Take a guided safari tour to spot wildlife such as lions, elephants, and giraffes
    • Visit the Lake Ihema shore for a scenic view of the surrounding landscape
  • Afternoon
    • Continue your game drive or take a break for lunch at the park’s restaurant
    • Visit the local community village for a cultural experience (optional)
    • Return to Kigali in the evening

Day 3: Volcanoes National Park and Musanze

  • Morning
    • Depart Kigali early for Volcanoes National Park (approx. 2 hours)
    • Visit the Karisoke Research Centre, a renowned gorilla research centre
    • Take a guided hike to see the famous Dian Fossey’s grave
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Lake Bulera and twin lakes of Ruhondo and Muvumba for breathtaking views (10 minutes from Musanze town)
    • Explore the local market in Musanze for some shopping and snacks

Important Information

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport
  • Check with your embassy or consulate to confirm requirements

Transportation

  • Rent a car or book a guided tour to ensure safety and convenience
  • Public transportation is available, but not recommended for tourists

Activities

  • All activities are subject to weather conditions and park rules
  • Some activities may require additional fees (e.g. gorilla trekking permits)

Tips

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities
  • Try traditional Rwandan cuisine and drinks (e.g. Umutsima and Kivuguto)
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water

Additional Information

  • Time zone: Central Africa Time (CAT)
  • Currency: Rwandan franc (RWF), but USD is widely accepted
  • Language: English, French, and Kinyarwanda (local language)

Note: This itinerary can be adjusted according to your interests and time constraints. It’s always a good idea to consult with a travel agent or local tour operator for personalized recommendations.