Written by nDir on June 17, 2024

Slackpacking Through Rwanda’s National Parks: What You’ll See

Are you looking for a unique, exciting way to experience the natural beauty of Rwanda? From magnificent lakes to fascinating primates, this incredible African country offers so much to see and do!

A slackpacking adventure through Rwanda allows you to enjoy unique gorilla experiences, a wide variety of wildlife, unbelievable views, and immersion in the stunning landscapes on offer. Want to know more?

Here at Tailormade Africa, we have helped dozens of people plan once-in-a-lifetime slackpacking trips in Rwanda. In this article, we’ll shed light on what you can look forward to when embarking on one of these unforgettable adventures for yourself.

What is Slackpacking Exactly?

Slackpacking is an assisted form of hiking in which you hike without a backpack. Typically, a support vehicle or a guide carries your luggage so you can enjoy the surrounding natural beauty without having to carry all of your belongings.

Slackpacking has become incredibly popular over the past decade or two, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in their hiking experience.

Enjoy Unique Lodging Experiences

When you slackpack through Rwanda, you’ll get to enjoy unique lodging experiences, such as Bisate Lodge. This lodge offers ensuite forest villas, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty while still enjoying all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

One&Only Nyungwe House is another wonderful place to stay during your slackpacking experience. No matter your budget, preferences, and dietary requirements, there are lodges that perfectly suit your needs.

Whatever your accommodation choice, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Rwandan natural landscapes—home to impressive primate populations and sensational views.

What You’ll See

Slackpacking in Zimbabwe is a wonderful way to connect with the essence of the country’s great outdoors. Here are some of the wonderful things you’ll witness on your adventure:

• Wide Variety of Wildlife

Rwanda is well-known for its primates, including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. There are plenty of exciting opportunities to see these fascinating primates up close and personal when you book a gorilla trekking tour as part of your slackpacking experience.

In addition to primates, Rwanda is home to a wide variety of other mammals, reptiles, and birds. Birding enthusiasts will be glad to hear that there are over 700 bird species in the region.

• Majestic Volcanoes

As you walk through the national parks of Rwanda, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with the majesty of the country’s exquisite volcanoes.

Mount Karisimbi, located in the Virunga Mountains near the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is famous for its gorillas and exotic plant life. This volcano marks the highest point in the mountain range and dominates the skyline with its impressive size.

• Lush Rainforests

Is there anything more relaxing than walking through a cool rainforest as you enjoy the sound of the birds and nearby streams?

Nyungwe National Park is teeming with diverse plant life and is a must-see destination on your slackpacking adventure. Not only does the national park boast over 1,000 animal species, but it is also home to one of the oldest rainforests in all of Africa.

• Cascading Waterfalls

Rwanda has over 350 waterfalls, which is a fairly significant statistic for a country that is only around 12,000 square kilometres in size.

When you embark on a slackpacking adventure in Rwanda, you are sure to come across at least a few of their beautiful cascading waterfalls. These bodies of water provide the perfect opportunity to relax, take in the scenery, and perhaps even cool off if you’re feeling up for a swim.

• Magnificent Lakes

Don’t miss Lake Kivu, a stunning African Great Lake! Straddling the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this vast lake stretches over 2,700 square kilometres and is home to approximately 28 different fish species as well as a vast number of birds.

The lake is generally safe for swimming but you could also participate in a kayaking tour or a boat ride.

Why is Rwanda the Ideal Slackpacking Destination?

Rwanda isn’t the only slackpacking destination in the world, so what makes this African country a top choice for thousands of outdoor enthusiasts from around the world?

• Safety

Did you know that Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa? Even the buzzing capital city has an impressively low crime rate! In fact, you’re probably safer in Kigali than you would be on the streets of New York City.

Over the past few decades, Rwanda has become a top destination for solo female travellers thanks to the safety and security the country offers.

• Cleanliness

Did you know that plastic bags are banned in Rwanda? The government is on a mission to keep the country clean and free from litter. As you slackpack through Rwanda, the pristine condition of the national parks will undoubtedly impress you. Even the capital city of Kigali is incredibly clean!

• Unmatched Scenery

We’ve already spoken a bit about the natural beauty on offer but it is certainly worth mentioning again. As you hike through the national parks, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views time and time again. From lush green forests to fast-flowing waterfalls, the diversity of landscapes on offer is truly mesmerising.

• Knowledgeable Guides

Rwanda is known for having some of the best guides in all of Africa. Your slackpacking guide will tell you everything you need to know about local fauna and flora. They will also ensure your safety and point out animals you may not have noticed without them. A quality guide has a major impact on your overall experience.

• Affordability

Your slackpacking holiday in Rwanda doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, Rwanda is a very affordable destination, and you can enjoy luxury accommodation at a fraction of the cost, thanks to advantageous currency exchange rates.

There are also plenty of ways to minimise your expenditure, such as eating local cuisine and participating in homestays.

Preparing for Your Slackpacking Holiday in Rwanda

• Pack long-sleeved active wear to protect you from insects and the sun.
• Bring comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking long distances. (Pro tip: You may want to ensure your shoes are ‘broken in’ before your trip.)
• It’s a good idea to work on your physical fitness leading up to your trip, as some days you could be hiking decent distances, and you’ll want to be able to enjoy your surroundings.
• Don’t forget your camera and binoculars to ensure you see as many animals as possible.
• Don’t bring any unnecessary items. Just stick to the essentials.
• Watch videos about slackpacking through Rwanda to help better prepare yourself for your upcoming adventure.
• Remember to respect local wildlife, refrain from littering, and listen to the instructions provided by your guide.

[CTA] Are you ready to begin planning an unforgettable slackpacking holiday through Rwanda’s incredible national parks? With Tailormade Africa, you get a trip built just for you. We prioritise your needs and interests, ensuring an unforgettable Rwandan experience. Contact us to experience the freedom of slackpacking. We’d be thrilled to help you craft the perfect itinerary.