Discover why Rwanda is becoming one of Africa’s most sought-after luxury destinations. Explore gorilla trekking, breathtaking landscapes and two exceptional resorts for an unforgettable holiday.
In this Blog
One of Africa's Most Extraordinary Destinations
For many travellers, Africa brings to mind classic safaris and endless savannahs. But tucked away in the heart of East Africa is a destination that offers something refreshingly different.
Rwanda is a country where mist-covered mountains meet ancient rainforests, crystal-clear lakes stretch to the horizon and unforgettable wildlife encounters take centre stage. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, Rwanda combines remarkable natural beauty with exceptional hospitality, making it one of Africa’s fastest-growing luxury travel destinations.
Whether you’re dreaming of seeing endangered mountain gorillas in the wild, unwinding beside the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu or experiencing an elegant safari unlike anywhere else, Rwanda delivers extraordinary moments at every turn.
We’re excited to introduce Rwanda as the newest destination in the TLC Vacations collection.
Why Visit Rwanda?
Rwanda offers an experience unlike any other African destination.
Instead of vast distances between attractions, you’ll find a country that’s compact, easy to explore and remarkably diverse. Within just a few hours you can travel from vibrant city life to volcanic mountains, ancient forests, sparkling lakes and wildlife-rich national parks.
Visitors are continually surprised by Rwanda’s cleanliness, safety and welcoming people, making it an ideal destination for couples, honeymooners, wildlife enthusiasts and luxury travellers looking for something beyond the ordinary.
Unforgettable Experiences in Rwanda
Meet the Mountain Gorillas
Perhaps Rwanda’s most famous experience is trekking through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park to spend time with endangered mountain gorillas.
Watching these magnificent animals in their natural habitat is often described as one of the most moving wildlife encounters on Earth.
Cruise the Shores of Lake Kivu
Stretching along Rwanda’s western border, Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes.
Its calm waters, beautiful beaches and surrounding hills create the perfect setting to relax after a gorilla trek or safari adventure.
Guests can enjoy:
- Kayaking
- Boat cruises
- Coffee experiences
- Local village visits
- Scenic cycling routes
- Sunset drinks overlooking the lake
- Discover Akagera National Park
- For travellers wanting a traditional safari with a luxury twist, Akagera National Park offers impressive wildlife viewing.
- Home to the Big Five, the park features open plains, wetlands and lakes where visitors can enjoy game drives and boat safaris while avoiding the crowds found in many larger reserves.
Consider spending at least 5–7 nights in Rwanda to experience more than just gorilla trekking. Combining Volcanoes National Park with Lake Kivu or Akagera National Park offers the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife and relaxation.
Where to Stay
LUX* Lake Kivu
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Kivu, LUX* Lake Kivu offers a peaceful escape surrounded by rolling hills and panoramic lake views.
Highlights include:
- Absolute lakeside location
- Contemporary luxury accommodation
- Multiple dining experiences
- Wellness and spa facilities
- Water activities
- Perfect base before or after gorilla trekking
Ideal for couples, honeymooners and travellers wanting to unwind in nature without compromising on luxury.
SALT of Akagera
For those seeking an authentic safari experience, SALT of Akagera offers a contemporary retreat inspired by nature and meaningful travel.
Guests can enjoy:
- Luxury safari accommodation
- Guided game drives
- Big Five wildlife viewing
- Immersive local experiences
- Sustainable luxury
- Exceptional stargazing
It’s the perfect choice for travellers looking to combine adventure with understated luxury.
When is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda?
Rwanda is a year-round destination, but the dry seasons between June and September and December to February are particularly popular for gorilla trekking and safari experiences.
Lake Kivu remains beautiful throughout the year, making it an excellent destination regardless of season.
How Long is the Flight from South Africa?
Travellers can reach Kigali from Johannesburg in approximately 4 hours on a direct flight, making Rwanda one of the easiest East African destinations to access from South Africa.
Its accessibility makes Rwanda an excellent choice for travellers looking to experience a unique African adventure without lengthy travel times. At TLC Vacations, we can also tailor multi-destination itineraries, combining Rwanda with Mauritius or Zanzibar for an unforgettable bush-and-beach holiday.
Why Book Rwanda with TLC Vacations?
At TLC Vacations, we specialise in creating exceptional luxury holidays that go beyond the expected.
With the addition of Rwanda to our carefully curated collection, travellers can now combine world-famous gorilla encounters, unforgettable safaris and lakeside relaxation with the same premium service and expertise we’re known for.
Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or looking for Africa’s next luxury destination, Rwanda promises experiences that will stay with you forever.