East African Journey

Round trip.

Rwanda & Democratic Republic of the Congo

Rwanda stands out as one of the most stunning destinations in East Africa, renowned for its breath taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In addition to its natural beauty, it is widely recognized as one of the safest countries on the continent, offering solo travellers, particularly motorcyclists, a secure and welcoming environment to explore its diverse attractions.

An exceptional feature of traveling through Rwanda is the opportunity to engage with its warm and welcoming locals, offering authentic cultural exchanges that enrich the journey. Nevertheless, travellers should be aware of specific restrictions when visiting border regions adjacent to Burundi and Uganda, as certain areas may have limited access or require special precautions.

Beginning in Kigali City, the journey leads through the Nyungwe Forest National Park before continuing on to the scenic shores of Lake Kivu.

Lake Kivu, one of the African Great Lakes, lies between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, encompassing an area of approximately 2,700 square kilometres (1,040 square miles). Renowned for its striking deep emerald green waters, the lake reaches depths of nearly 485 meters (1,591 feet) and is framed by breath taking mountain landscapes. It holds profound importance for the communities along its shores, serving as a vital source of livelihood and a cornerstone of cultural traditions. Furthermore, Lake Kivu is distinguished as one of the world’s rare “exploding lakes,” a phenomenon attributed to its unique geological characteristics.

The experience of riding along the flawlessly curved roads that wind around the lake is both exhilarating and memorable. Notably, Rwanda boasts some of the finest road infrastructure on the African continent, making the trip not only visually stunning but also exceptionally smooth and enjoyable.

The next stage of the journey leads to Volcanoes National Park, offering the opportunity to trek through lush jungles and encounter the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. For those who prefer the thrill of handling ape hangers over meeting the great apes, an alternative is to bypass the gorilla trekking and ride into a nearby village to immerse in the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the local community.

The captivating journey proceeds to Akagera National Park, the largest wetland in Central Africa. For those who have yet to experience a game drive through the heart of the continent, this presents an exceptional opportunity to observe the iconic Big Five animals of the savannah in their natural habitat.

The ride concludes in Kigali City, where the remainder of the day can be dedicated to exploring its vibrant markets and renowned art gallery. Although the entire journey can be completed within two days, it offers flexibility for customization to suit individual preferences.