Rwanda’s Secret Lakes, Volcanoes, and Savannah Parks

When you think of Rwanda, the majestic mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park often come to mind. Indeed, gorilla trekking is an awe-inspiring experience that has put Rwanda on the global tourism map. However, this “Land of a Thousand Hills” has far more to offer than just its famed primates. From tranquil lakes that stretch across the western border to ancient rainforests crisscrossed by canopy walks, and sprawling savannahs where the Big Five now roam once more—Rwanda is a gem full of hidden natural treasures.

This article explores the lesser-known but equally enthralling destinations  in Rwanda ,of Lake Kivu, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park—highlighting how they offer immersive experiences for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and raw African beauty.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, nestled between the verdant hills of western Rwanda and the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Spanning over 2,700 square kilometers, the lake serves as a tranquil escape from the more rugged experiences of Rwanda’s inland parks. Yet, it offers no shortage of adventure for those who seek it.

Lake Kivu

The lakeside towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu offer idyllic settings for relaxation and exploration. Gisenyi, the most developed of the trio, features boutique resorts, sandy beaches, and hot springs—making it ideal for those wanting comfort with a view. Kibuye, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more secluded atmosphere. Its hilly landscapes and winding roads provide postcard-worthy scenes, perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and sunset cruises.

Lake Kivu is also popular among kayakers and boaters. Paddle through the calm waters, and you’ll come across fishing villages, local children swimming near the shores, and the unique opportunity to visit Amahoro Island—often referred to as “Peace Island.” For history buffs, the Genocide Memorial in Kibuye offers a sobering but essential look into Rwanda’s past.

What sets Lake Kivu apart is its serene atmosphere. The water here is free of crocodiles and hippos, making it one of the safest large lakes in Africa for water-based recreation. Whether you’re sipping Rwandan coffee at a lakeside café or exploring the island-dotted waters by boat, Lake Kivu offers a rare mix of peace and vitality—an ideal complement to your Rwandan adventure.

Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk

Tucked in the southwestern corner of Rwanda lies Nyungwe Forest National Park—a sprawling and biologically rich rainforest that covers over 1,000 square kilometers. This is one of the oldest and most pristine rainforests in Africa, having survived the Ice Age and retaining a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. While chimpanzee tracking is a major draw here, it’s the Canopy Walkway that gives visitors a truly extraordinary perspective of the forest’s grandeur.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Canopy Walk, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor and stretching 160 meters in length, offers panoramic views and an unforgettable adrenaline rush. It’s one of only a handful of such walkways in Africa and the first of its kind in the region. Walking along this sky-high bridge, visitors can see vibrant birdlife, butterflies, and even spot primates like L’Hoest’s monkeys and blue monkeys swinging through the trees below.

The forest is home to over 1,000 plant species, 85 mammals, and nearly 300 bird species—including the elusive Ruwenzori turaco and the Great Blue Turaco, which are must-sees for bird enthusiasts. It’s also a critical watershed, feeding both the Congo and Nile Rivers.

Hiking through Nyungwe offers a more intimate experience of Rwanda’s natural beauty. Trails like the Igishigishigi, Umuyove, and Imbaraga hikes range in difficulty and take you through bamboo groves, waterfalls, and thick jungle, each unveiling a different facet of the park’s lush ecosystem. The scent of wild orchids and the distant calls of primates accompany you throughout.

Accommodation near the forest ranges from luxury eco-lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, all designed to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Nyungwe Forest isn’t just a place for adventure; it’s a sanctuary for introspection, scientific exploration, and raw natural immersion.

Akagera National Park: Rwanda’s Savannah Renaissance

Located in the east of Rwanda, Akagera National Park tells one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation success stories. Once ravaged by war and human encroachment, the park was on the brink of collapse. Today, it’s a vibrant ecosystem once again teeming with wildlife—including Africa’s iconic Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.

Spanning approximately 1,120 square kilometers, Akagera is Rwanda’s only savannah park. It features a breathtaking mix of landscapes—from open plains and rolling hills to papyrus swamps and vast lakes. This diversity makes for excellent game viewing, with sightings of zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.

The transformation of Akagera began in 2010 when the Rwandan government partnered with African Parks, a conservation NGO. Through effective park management, community involvement, and anti-poaching measures, Akagera is now thriving. The reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017 marked the return of the Big Five after nearly two decades.

Visitors can now enjoy traditional game drives, boat safaris on Lake Ihema, and even night safaris to see the park’s nocturnal wildlife. Akagera also offers a more exclusive experience compared to larger parks in Kenya or Tanzania, with fewer vehicles and more personalized encounters with wildlife.

Community-based tourism is an integral part of Akagera’s model. Local communities benefit from tourism revenue through employment and investment in education and health, making conservation a shared goal. This has led to an incredibly supportive local population that now sees the park not as a threat, but as a valuable asset.

Accommodation options in Akagera range from the luxurious Magashi Camp, which offers exclusive game viewing and fine dining, to more modest campsites that cater to adventurous self-drive travelers. Whether you’re watching elephants bathe at dawn or witnessing a pride of lions on the prowl, Akagera delivers a classic African safari experience—without the crowds.

Akagera’s story is one of resilience, cooperation, and renewal. It exemplifies Rwanda’s broader journey of recovery and ambition—a nation reclaiming its natural heritage and inviting the world to witness its transformation.

Why Rwanda’s Hidden Gems Deserve a Place on Your Safari Itinerary

While gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park will always be Rwanda’s crown jewel, destinations like Lake Kivu, Nyungwe Forest, and Akagera National Park offer a more diverse and holistic safari experience. These hidden gems allow travelers to go beyond the expected and explore the rich tapestry of Rwanda’s ecosystems.

Lake Kivu offers calm, cultural connection, and lakeside luxury. Nyungwe Forest presents rare biodiversity and high-altitude adventure. Akagera brings the drama of Africa’s savannahs, now restored and protected. Each of these destinations complements the others, creating a multi-dimensional journey that combines water, forest, and plains—peace, thrill, and wildlife.

Moreover, Rwanda’s excellent road infrastructure, compact size, and efficient tourism services make it easy to combine all these destinations in a single trip. Whether you’re a honeymooner seeking romance by the lake, a family looking for safe and educational adventures, or a photographer hunting for untapped beauty—Rwanda has something unique for you.

By venturing beyond the gorillas, visitors not only deepen their connection to Rwanda but also contribute to a more equitable distribution of tourism benefits. This supports conservation, community development, and the continued success of Rwanda’s ecotourism model.

Plan Your Rwandan Escape with Traford Safaris Ltd

Tailor-Made Journeys into Rwanda’s Wild Heart

At Traford Safaris Ltd, we specialize in curated, immersive experiences that showcase the best of East Africa. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Rwanda or returning for a deeper exploration, our expert guides and local insight ensure your journey is seamless, safe, and unforgettable.

We invite you to explore “Beyond the Gorillas”—to discover Rwanda’s secret lakes, sky-high rainforests, and rewilded savannahs. Let us craft a bespoke itinerary that brings together the country’s stunning variety, from tranquil shores to untamed wildlife.