The chance to get up close and personal with gorillas may be reason enough for many to visit Rwanda, but this is just one of  many plus points. The mountain landscapes are among the best in the world, and destinations such as Lake Kivu provide unexpected surprises in the way of beautiful secluded, beaches. One of the best ways to see it all is through a guided tour or day trip, allowing you to encounter all manner of country highlights.

Don't miss these Rwanda attractions

  • Mountain Gorilla treks
  • Nyungwe Forest National Park
  • Kigali city tours
  • Multi-day culture and wildlife tours
  • Akagera National Park

Spot gorillas in the mist

Also known as 'The Land of a Thousand Hills', exploring Rwanda's wild side is the highlight of many tour itineraries. Home to one third of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, many Rwanda tours include a visit to Nyungwe Forest, Kibale National Park and Volcanoes National Park where you can view these powerful primates.

Of the country's three most famous natural frontiers, Volcanoes National Park is the most notable Rwanda feature. Here you can visit the Karisoke Research Camp – the place where Gorillas In The Mist writer Dian Fossey’s grave is located. On a tour you can also see the hut where Dian spent years living close to the gorillas.

High and low lands

When you are not encountering gorillas, Rwanda's highlands are also home to classic African forests, pre-historic volcanoes and quickly modernising villages. Lower in altitude are the shores of Lake Kivu. Home to some of the best inland beaches on the continent, Lake Kivu is a great place to unwind between gorilla treks.

For a change of pace, Kigali is a quiet and comfortable capital city. Founded in 1907 as a colonial outpost, it offers a number of tours that provide insight into local culture. Visit the National History Museum or sample the gastronomic delights of such local dishes as Umutsima and Mizuzu.