Part of our Rwanda guide.
Nyungwe Forest’s canopy walk and Lake Kivu’s shores are two of Rwanda’s hidden gems, offering treetop views and lakeside relaxation without the crowds. This page gathers two places and guides from our Rwanda coverage.
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Nyungwe Forest Rwanda's Hidden Canopy Walk
Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda offers a canopy walk high above one of Africa's oldest rainforests. The suspended bridge gives a bird's-eye view of monkeys, birds, and butterflies. The lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape.
For those looking to combine the canopy walk with other activities, there are plenty of things to do in Rwanda that start right here. Guided hikes lead to waterfalls and chimpanzee troops, while the nearby town of Cyangugu offers access to Lake Kivu’s beaches and boat trips. The forest’s network of trails means you can spend a full day exploring without retracing your steps.
Nyungwe is home to over 300 bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. Early morning walks are best for spotting the great blue turaco and the Rwenzori nightjar. The forest’s elevation—between 1,600 and 2,900 meters—keeps temperatures mild year-round, so pack a light jacket even in summer.
Lake Kivu Rwanda’s Serene Lakeside Escape
Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, stretches along Rwanda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its calm waters and terraced hillsides make it a peaceful alternative to the more famous safari destinations. Visitors can kayak, swim (the lake is free of bilharzia), or relax on the shores of Gisenyi or Kibuye. The shoreline is dotted with small guesthouses and resorts, many offering sunset views over the Congo Nile Divide.
For a deeper dive into local life, take a boat to the islands of Idjwi or the smaller Islets of Gisenyi. Idjwi is the second-largest lake island in Africa and home to a community that produces coffee, bananas, and handwoven crafts. A day trip from Kibuye costs around $30 per person and includes lunch and a guide. The lake’s surface temperature averages 24°C (75°F), so swimming is comfortable most of the year.
Lake Kivu is the starting point for the Congo Nile Trail, a 227-kilometer hiking and cycling route that follows the shoreline. Sections can be done in a day or over a week, with homestays and campsites along the way. The trail offers views of tea plantations, eucalyptus forests, and traditional fishing villages.
Akagera National Park Rwanda’s Big Five Destination
Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda has been restored as a premier safari destination. After a successful reintroduction program, the park now hosts lions, elephants, black rhinos, leopards, and buffalo—the Big Five. A game drive through the savannah and wetlands costs $50 per person for a half-day (park fees are $35 per person, plus $30 for a vehicle). The park covers 1,122 square kilometers, with varied habitats from open plains to papyrus swamps.
Self-drive safaris are allowed, but guided tours are recommended for spotting the park’s 500+ bird species and elusive predators. The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to September), when animals gather at waterholes. Akagera is about a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, making it an easy weekend trip.
