My once-in-a-lifetime Rwanda trip

Yet, one extraordinary animal has topped my bucket list for as long as I can remember: the mountain gorilla. I recently returned from an unforgettable Rwanda trip, where I had the privilege of seeing mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. The experience surpassed every expectation, and the treks to reach these incredible creatures were magical.

Why visit Rwanda in May?

Travelling to Rwanda in May offers some distinct advantages. It’s low season, which means significantly lower rates for hotels and lodges. Fewer tourists also make for smaller trekking groups, which adds a more intimate, adventurous feel to the whole experience. 

While May brings plenty of clear weather, you do need to expect regular showers. It rained during my canoeing trip, and some of the drives were slower due to afternoon showers, but these things didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all. In fact, I’d happily return to Rwanda in May.

A week in Rwanda 

My week in Rwanda began with two nights in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. I stayed at The Retreat, a boutique hotel that truly lives up to its name—an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. 

Kigali is stunning, with rolling green hills in every direction. It’s safe and walkable, with excellent shops, restaurants, and a pedestrianised area offering delicious street food. A must-see is the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Museum, which provides a profound insight into Rwanda’s tragic history and remarkable progress.

Adding a safari in Akagera National Park 

Having just finished a safari in Tanzania, I skipped Akagera National Park on this particular trip. However, it’s a superb option for those with time. Here, you can spot the Big Five, along with hippos, giraffes, zebras, and more. Less crowded than Kenya or Tanzania, Akagera offers an authentic safari experience, so I highly recommend it if your schedule allows.

The journey to Nyungwe National Park 

Next, I headed to Nyungwe National Park. While self-driving is possible, Rwandan roads can be busy with pedestrians and motorbikes carrying all sorts of goods. I opted for a local guide in a comfortable Toyota Land Cruiser, which turned out to be a wise choice. His expertise made the journey stress-free - I could sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, with well-timed coffee stops along the way.

Exploring Nyungwe 

Nyungwe is home to thirteen primate species. On arrival, I spotted colobus and mona monkeys on the roadside before enjoying a delicious lunch of local chicken stew. Then came the famous canopy walk—a short hike through lush forest leading to suspended bridges above the treetops. Even with a few clouds, the views were spectacular. Despite my mild fear of heights, the experience was exhilarating and atmospheric.

Chimpanzee trekking: a bucket list moment 

The next morning was dedicated to chimpanzee trekking - a true highlight of my trip. Nyungwe’s skilled trackers know the daily whereabouts of the chimpanzees, and our ranger led us deep into the forest. I hired a porter (just $10), which not only makes the trek easier but also supports the local community.

 After a two-hour walk with plenty of breaks to catch our breath, we found the chimps and spent an unforgettable hour watching them swing through the trees. One even descended to the forest floor near us. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu 

From Nyungwe, I travelled to Volcanoes National Park—a long but incredibly scenic drive. We paused at Lake Kivu for a delicious lunch. Next time I visit Rwanda, I’ll definitely spend a couple of days relaxing by this stunning lake. It’s a beautiful place to stop and soak up the scenery between wildlife-spotting adventures.

Golden monkeys and hiking adventures 

My first day in Volcanoes National Park was all about trekking to see golden monkeys. After a short walk through some farmland, we entered the forest and spent an hour observing these playful primates doing their thing. It’s important to wear face masks for their protection, so be sure to keep your mask on throughout the morning. 

The following day, I hiked through tea plantations and enjoyed breathtaking views of the twin lakes. Birdwatching was a bonus, and I even spotted a chameleon and a toad. Later, I took a boat trip to a lakeside restaurant for a traditional beef agatogo stew, followed by a canoe tour past serene rice paddies and bamboo groves.

The ultimate experience: Rwanda gorilla trekking 

Finally, it was time for the main event— gorilla trekking. After being collected at dawn, we met our rangers for a briefing before setting off into the forest. The trek itself was an adventure, with muddy trails and dense jungle. We even had to clear our path with a machete at times. Sturdy waterproof boots are essential!

Then came the moment I’ll never forget—hearing a gorilla just metres away. Soon, we encountered a majestic silverback and spent an hour quietly observing the family, including a six-month-old and a one-week-old baby. Being so close to these gentle giants was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I’m still pinching myself.

My thoughts about Rwanda 

In short, Rwanda is a destination that will stay with you forever. From its warm hospitality and stunning landscapes to its extraordinary wildlife encounters, this trip was the adventure of a lifetime. If you add a safari in Akagera National Park and a couple of days on the shores of Lake Kivu, you’ll have a well-paced Rwanda holiday packed with completely unforgettable experiences.

Ready to plan a holiday to Rwanda? 

Rwanda is very close to our hearts at Travel Nation, and we love helping our customers to explore this special destination. We’ll help you create a Rwanda trip that combines community experiences with wildlife encounters, active adventures, and plenty of time to relax. To get started, give us a call on 1273 320 580 or send us a quote request by email.

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