The Land of a Thousand Hills

“To look into the eyes of a mountain gorilla in Rwanda is to feel both awe and connection. It's a quiet, powerful kind of magic that stays with you.”

Wander Rwanda |

Wander Rwanda |

The Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda is one of the most inspiring countries in Africa—clean, safe, and full of heart. Its lush hills, winding roads, and warm people make every moment feel purposeful. But it’s the gorillas that draw most travelers here—and rightfully so. Seeing them in the wild is one of life’s most profound experiences.

Beyond the gorillas, Rwanda offers rich cultural immersion, elegant lodges, and the chance to see a country that’s risen with grace. Whether hiking through bamboo forests, sharing a laugh with local farmers, or watching mist roll over the volcanoes, Rwanda invites you to slow down and take it all in.

What we Love Most

  • Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

    It’s the main reason people come to Rwanda—and it never disappoints. Being in the presence of these great apes is unforgettable.

  • Conservation with Purpose

    Stay at properties like Kwitonda or Bisate and witness reforestation, community partnerships, and sustainable tourism done right.

  • Culture and Community

    Whether it’s a visit to the Genocide Memorial in Kigali or time spent with local weavers in Musanze, Rwanda offers depth, healing, and connection.

  • Views for Days

    Lodges here are often perched high in the hills—offering sweeping volcano views, dramatic misty forests, and a deep sense of place.

  • Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund HQ

    Visit the world-class Ellen DeGeneres Campus in Musanze—a center for conservation education, research, and gorilla protection that offers insight into the legacy of Dian Fossey and Rwanda’s future.

Where to Go.

  • The heart of Rwanda’s gorilla trekking experience. Forested slopes, golden monkeys, and misty peaks make it feel like another world.

  • One of Africa’s most progressive and cleanest cities. Great for a soft landing, cultural tours, and inspiring stories of resilience.

  • A peaceful stretch of shoreline ideal for kayaking, boat rides, and post-trek reflection.

Properties we Love

  • Kwitonda

    Singita’s reforestation-focused lodge with gorgeous suites and meaningful impact.

  • Bisate

    Iconic, earth-formed villas with sweeping volcano views and conservation woven into every detail.

  • Sabyinyo Lodge

    One of Rwanda’s originals. Warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the surrounding community.

  • Virunga Lodge

    Perched between twin lakes and volcanoes. Intimate, soulful, and packed with local character.

  • Bishop’s House

    An elegant pre/post trek option that feels like a private residence with old-world charm.

Rwanda is clean, proud, and full of soul. From the moment you land in Kigali to the quiet forest trails in Volcanoes National Park, everything feels intentional. Gorilla trekking is the headline act, but it’s the people, the land, and the spirit of renewal that leave the longest impression.

Rwanda at a Glance.

  • Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the driest conditions are from June to mid-September and again in December to February. These windows offer the most comfortable hiking.

  • Expect misty mornings and warm days. Rain is more common from March to May and October to November but usually comes in short, heavy bursts.

  • Gorilla trekking requires guests to be at least 15 years old, but families with older teens will find the experience deeply bonding and educational. Kigali and Lake Kivu also offer gentle, culturally rich moments.

  • Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa. The East Africa Tourist Visa is a great option if combining travel with Kenya or Uganda.

  • Yellow fever vaccination is required if traveling from an endemic country. Malaria risk is low but present—mosquito repellent and prophylactics are recommended. Keep routine vaccinations up to date.

  • Most travelers transfer by road in private 4x4s with their guide. The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes is smooth and scenic (2.5–3 hours). Helicopter transfers are also available for those short on time or looking for a dramatic arrival.

Your itinerary

We try to never curate the same itinerary twice, but below are just some of the itineraries we have curated in the past.

Pairs well with:

Kenya, Tanzania

Let’s talk about it.