Musanze - Discovering Rwanda

Travelling to Musanze

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Musanze, a pretty good destination in Rwanda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Musanze and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Musanze, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Rwanda, here's everything to know about Musanze for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Musanze

Musanze is a city located in the Northern Province of Rwanda, about a two-hour drive from the capital city of Kigali. It is also commonly known as Ruhengeri, and it is situated near Volcanoes National Park where tourists can trek to see the endangered mountain gorillas. Musanze is a vibrant city with a growing tourism industry and offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions such as the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village and the Musanze Caves. It is also known for its beautiful scenery of rolling hills and breathtaking landscapes.

What to visit in Musanze

Sure, here are the tourist attractions in Musanze, Rwanda: 1. Volcanoes National Park: This park is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the mountain gorilla. Visitors can go on guided gorilla trekking tours as well as hiking trails to discover other wildlife. The park also offers cultural experiences with visits to local villages and communities.
2. Musanze Caves: These caves were formed over 65 million years ago and offer a fascinating underground world to explore. Visitors can see lava tubes and various shapes of stalactites and stalagmites.
3. Twin Lakes: Burera and Ruhondo lakes are two stunning, adjacent lakes surrounded by rolling hills, farms, and small villages. Visitors can take scenic boat rides or kayak tours to witness the breathtaking views and learn about local communities.
4. Red Rocks Rwanda: This cultural center offers visitors the chance to learn about traditional Rwandan music, dance, and crafts. They also offer cultural tours of the surrounding area, including hikes and visits to local villages.
5. Buhanga Sacred Forest: This ancient forest is sacred to the local people, who consider it a spiritual place. Visitors can take guided walks through the forest to learn about its history, rituals, and customs.
6. Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village: This village was created to help shift the community from poaching to tourism. Visitors can learn about traditional Rwandan life and participate in cultural practices such as drumming, dancing, and basket weaving. They also offer gorilla trekking tours.
Overall, Musanze has a varied range of tourist attractions that offer cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and natural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Rwanda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Musanze.

When to go on holiday to Musanze

The best time to visit Musanze in Rwanda is during the drier months of June to September and December to February. During these months, you can expect sunny and warm weather, with lower chances of rainfall. The dry months are great for gorilla trekking and hiking as the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. However, keep in mind that due to its high elevation, temperatures in Musanze can drop at night, so make sure to bring warm clothing.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Musanze

Musanze is a city located in northern Rwanda. There are several ways to get there: 1. By air: You can fly into Kigali International Airport and then take a domestic flight to Musanze. The flight takes about 30 minutes.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from Kigali to Musanze. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
3. By private car: You can hire a car and driver to take you from Kigali to Musanze. This option allows you to stop along the way and take in the beautiful scenery.
4. By motorcycle: You can also take a motorcycle taxi from Kigali to Musanze. This is a popular option for locals and is often faster than taking a bus.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, it's always a good idea to have a reliable and reputable driver or company to ensure your safety and comfort.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Musanze, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Musanze

1. Isombe - a dish made from cassava leaves, cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It is usually served with plantains and rice.
2. Nyama Choma - grilled meat, often goat or beef, that is seasoned with spices and served with a side of fries or maize.
3. Ugali - a type of cornmeal porridge that is popular in East Africa. It is a staple food in Rwanda and is usually served with stews and curries.
4. Igisafuriya - a type of grilled pork that is marinated in tomato, onion, and garlic before being grilled. It is usually served with potatoes and vegetables.
5. Inyamatenderi - a traditional Rwandan dish made from sweet potatoes that are boiled, mashed, and then mixed with milk, butter, and sugar.
6. Ibiharage - a dish made from red beans that are cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It is usually served with plantains, cassava, or rice.
7. Akabenz - a type of bread that is similar to a baguette but thicker and softer. It is usually eaten with butter or jam for breakfast.
8. Umugati - a sweet dessert made from cassava flour, coconut milk, and sugar. It is often served at special occasions like weddings and birthdays. 9. Umutsima - a dish made from cassava or corn flour that is boiled and then mashed into a sticky paste. It is a staple food in Rwanda and is often served with stews and curries.
10. Ikinyomoro - a type of grilled goat meat that is marinated in a mix of spices and served with a side of fries and vegetables. It is a popular dish in Musanze.
You can find general info about typical foods in Rwanda here.

Is Musanze an expensive destination for tourists?

Musanze (Rwanda) can be considered relatively expensive compared to other destinations in Rwanda. Prices for accommodation, transportation, and meals can be higher due to the popularity of tourism in the area. However, the value that tourists receive for their money can be higher as well, with many tours and activities available, including gorilla trekking and cultural experiences. It's also important to note that prices can vary depending on the season, so it's recommended to research and plan your trip accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Musanze

In Musanze (Rwanda), the best areas to find accommodation are in the town center or nearby villages such as Kinigi, Bisate, and Nyirangarama. The town center location offers access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and nightlife, making it ideal for travelers who want to stay close to the action. On the other hand, villages like Kinigi, Bisate and Nyirangarama offer a more tranquil atmosphere and proximity to some popular tourist destinations like Volcanoes National Park, Gishwati Mukura National Park, and the Twin lakes.
You can check hotel prices at Musanze here:
Booking.com

Is Musanze a safe destination for tourists?

Musanze, Rwanda is considered safe for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and the local people are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, it is still important to exercise caution, especially at night and in less populated areas. It is also recommended to take proper precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, such as keeping your valuables secured and being aware of your surroundings. Overall, as long as you take safety precautions and use common sense, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Musanze.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Rwanda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Musanze.

What type of travelers will enjoy Musanze the most?

Musanze, also known as Ruhengeri, is a city located in the Northern Province of Rwanda. It is widely known for its proximity to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered Mountain Gorillas. Musanze can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. However, the main attraction of the city is animal tourism, so those interested in wildlife and nature will enjoy it more. Here are some examples of what each type of traveler can do: - Couples: In Musanze, couples can experience a romantic and unique adventure by going gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. This activity allows you to get up close and personal with the majestic gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Young people looking for fun: Musanze has an active nightlife scene with several bars, clubs, and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The city also has a vibrant market that sells local crafts, fruits, and vegetables.
- Families: Musanze has several cultural activities that families can enjoy, including the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village where visitors can learn about Rwandan culture and participate in traditional dances and ceremonies. Families can also try hiking, biking, or visits to local communities or farms.
Overall, Musanze offers a unique and enriching experience for all types of travelers, especially those who are interested in wildlife, nature, and cultural activities.

How to get around Musanze

The most common modes of transportation to move around Musanze in Rwanda are motorcycle taxis known as "moto" and regular taxis. However, if you prefer more comfort and flexibility, you can also arrange a private car rental with a driver for a day or more. Additionally, there are public buses that run between Musanze and other cities in Rwanda, but these can be crowded and not always reliable.

What to see around Musanze

There are many beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Musanze. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Volcanoes National Park: This park is home to the majestic mountain gorillas, and is a great place to go for a guided hike to see these incredible animals up close.
2. Lake Bulera: This serene lake is a great place for a picnic or a swim, and the surrounding scenery is absolutely stunning.
3. Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes: For adventurous hikers, these two volcanoes are a must-see, as they offer breathtaking views from their peaks.
4. Musanze Caves: These caves are a natural wonder, with intricate rock formations and an eerie atmosphere. A guided tour is recommended to get the most out of your visit.
5. Mutura Island: This small island in Lake Burera is a great spot for birdwatching or simply soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.
6. Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo: These two beautiful lakes are located close to each other and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any more information.
For every travel information about Rwanda you can click here.

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