Chat with us on WhatsApp. We're just a message away.Guided
expert led adventures
7 days
274 km
~34 km/day
moderate to challenging
Kigali
4–14
participants
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Jan – Feb, Jun – Aug
Discover the diverse landscapes of Rwanda on this immersive gravel cycling and safari adventure through the country’s scenic Eastern Province. Combining rewarding rides, rich cultural encounters, lakeside scenery, and unforgettable wildlife experiences, this journey showcases why Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Over 10 days, ride approximately 280 km across a mix of paved roads, rural backroads, and gravel tracks, passing through rolling farmland, traditional villages, tea plantations, and the tranquil shores of Lake Muhazi. The itinerary has been carefully designed to offer a moderate yet achievable cycling experience with varied terrain and spectacular scenery throughout.
The journey begins in Kigali with a guided city ride featuring sections of the historic UCI World Championships legacy route before heading east into Rwanda’s countryside. Along the way, enjoy scenic lakeside rides, immersive cultural experiences, and quiet gravel routes that reveal the authentic rhythm of rural Rwanda.
Midway through the tour, trade the bike for a classic East African safari experience in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five, including lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo. A full-day game drive and Lake Ihema boat safari offer incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.
The adventure concludes in northern Rwanda near Volcanoes National Park, where guests can choose to add an optional gorilla trekking or golden monkey trekking experience for an unforgettable finale.
This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking a unique blend of gravel cycling, wildlife, culture, and adventure in one of Africa’s most scenic and welcoming destinations.
Highlights
Ride a section of the historic 2025 UCI Road World Championships course through Kigali, following roads that welcomed professional cyclists during Africa's first UCI tournament.
Explore Rwanda's Eastern Province on scenic gravel roads alongside Lake Muhazi's tranquil shores, passing fishing villages and experiencing authentic rural life.
Discover Rwanda's only savannah park with a full-day game drive and boat trip, encountering the Big Five and diverse wildlife in wetlands, woodlands, and open plains.
Come face-to-face with one of the world’s rarest and most extraordinary wildlife encounters — mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Trek through misty rainforest alongside experienced trackers in search of a habituated gorilla family, where you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these remarkable primates in their natural habitat. Watch playful juveniles tumble through the forest, mothers care for their young, and powerful silverbacks quietly lead the group in an experience that is both humbling and deeply moving. For many travelers, this once-in-a-lifetime encounter becomes the defining highlight of Rwanda.
10 Days from $6,795
Free cancellation · Up to 60 days before group departure
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kigali | Inside Afrika Boutique Hotel | - | - | |
| 02 | Kigali | Inside Afrika Boutique Hotel | B, L | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| 03 | Nyagasambu | Good Mood Beach Resort | B, L, D | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| 04 | Akagera | Akagera Transit Lodge | B, L, D | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| 05 | Kayonza | Imigongo Guest House Accommodation | B, L, D | - | kayaking |
| 06 | Muhazi Flowers Beach | Muhazi Flowers Beach Resort | B, L, D | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| 07 | Kingfish Resort | Kingfish Beach Resort Muhazi | B, L, D | 48 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| 08 | Musanze | Isange Paradise Resort | B, L, D | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| 09 | Musanze | Isange Paradise Resort | B, L, D | - | hiking, birding |
| 10 | Kigali | - | B | - | cycling |
Meals: B = Breakfast · L = Lunch · D = Dinner
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
Upon landing at Kigali International Airport, you'll clear customs and collect your luggage before meeting your guide in the arrivals hall. A short transfer takes you to your accommodation in the charming Kiyovu neighborhood. The evening includes a trip briefing and time to settle in before tomorrow's ride begins.
Meals: -
Accommodation: Inside Afrika Boutique Hotel
Your cycling adventure begins with an urban ride through Rwanda's capital, following part of the 2025 UCI World Championships route. The 30.5-kilometer ride mixes road and gravel surfaces through hilly terrain, offering insight into the city that hosted Africa's first UCI tournament. After lunch at Fika Café, you'll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda's history and remarkable recovery.
Meals: B, L
Cycling Distance: 30 km / 19 mi
Accommodation: Inside Afrika Boutique Hotel
Leaving Kigali behind, the route transitions to quieter gravel roads winding through open countryside and banana groves. The 45-kilometer ride passes small homesteads and local trading centers, offering authentic glimpses of rural Rwandan life. Gentle climbs and flowing descents reward you with valley views before reaching your lakeside accommodation in the Eastern Province.
Meals: B, L, D
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 28 mi
Accommodation: Good Mood Beach Resort
Today's 65-kilometer ride near Lake Muhazi represents the tour's most challenging day. The gravel route follows the lake's shoreline through breathtaking landscapes with abundant birdlife and small fishing villages. Rolling hills meet shimmering water as you pedal east toward Akagera National Park, with frequent opportunities to connect with rural communities along the way.
Meals: B, L, D
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
Accommodation: Akagera Transit Lodge
A recovery day allows your legs to rest while exploring Akagera National Park's savannah ecosystem. The full-day game drive takes you through low-lying plains, woodlands, and wetlands in search of the Big Five and other wildlife including zebra, giraffe, and buffalo. A boat trip on Lake Ihema provides close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife before transferring to your guesthouse in Kayonza.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Imigongo Guest House Accommodation
This 42.5-kilometer ride from Kayonza follows a mix of gravel and road through classic Rwandan countryside to Lake Muhazi's shores. The moderate route passes farmland and traditional villages with spectacular lake views emerging in the distance. Arriving at Muhazi Flowers Beach Resort, you'll enjoy lakeside relaxation and the resort's peaceful atmosphere.
Meals: B, L, D
Cycling Distance: 42 km / 26 mi
Accommodation: Muhazi Flowers Beach Resort
Following Lake Muhazi's gentle contours, this 48-kilometer gravel ride connects two lakeside resorts through quiet roads and rural tracks. The route winds past fishing communities, cultivated hillsides, and viewpoints overlooking the lake's long inlets. Abundant birdlife and village life unfold at an unhurried pace before reaching Kingfish Beach Hotel's panoramic setting.
Meals: B, L, D
Cycling Distance: 48 km / 30 mi
Accommodation: Kingfish Beach Resort Muhazi
After a vehicle transfer to Byumba, the final ride covers 43.6 kilometers through rolling hills and tea estates toward Rwanda's volcanic region. The gravel route showcases the Land of a Thousand Hills landscape with sweeping valley viewpoints and encounters with local life. The ride concludes at a café near Volcanoes National Park, gateway to mountain gorilla habitat.
Meals: B, L, D
Cycling Distance: 44 km / 27 mi
Transfer Time: 50 min (approx.)
Accommodation: Isange Paradise Resort
Choose between gorilla trekking or golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. Gorilla trekking involves 1-3 hours of forest hiking to spend an unforgettable hour with a mountain gorilla family. Alternatively, golden monkey trekking offers encounters with playful endangered primates leaping through the bamboo forest. The evening features a farewell dinner celebrating your journey.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Isange Paradise Resort
After breakfast and checkout, transfer back to Kigali for your departure flight. The 2-3 hour journey provides time to reflect on your cycling and wildlife adventure through Rwanda's eastern landscapes before reaching Kigali International Airport.
Meals: B
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Located in Kigali's charming Kiyovu neighborhood, this boutique hotel features 11 spacious rooms decorated in African décor with flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, swimming pool, and business center.
A peaceful lakeside resort on Lake Muhazi created as a space where comfort meets nature, offering personalized hospitality and a tranquil atmosphere for families, couples, and friends.
A community lodge blending luxury and traditional setting located near Akagera National Park, supporting the surrounding community while providing comfortable accommodation.
Part of Bashana Companies Limited's hospitality offerings in rural Kayonza, this guesthouse connects guests to the famous Imigongo Art Center while supporting local artisans and sustainable community initiatives.
A lakeside hotel in Rwanda's Eastern Province offering modern boat rides, evening illumination over Lake Muhazi, and a peaceful setting for relaxation and events.
Set in Karagari with panoramic lake views, this resort features a garden, outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and rooms with balconies overlooking mountain and lake vistas.
Located near Volcanoes National Park, this resort offers 12 comfortable self-contained rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking a beautiful, charming garden.
Lodging
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Trip Leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
Bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Airport Pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport Drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
Meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water during activity.
Entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases due to height or availability constraints, we may provide an equivalent alternative.
Gravel Bike or similar
gravel
Included in your trip price
Kigali
Kigali
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Arrival Information
Fly Into: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Arrival City: Kigali
Arrival Details: Please plan your flights to arrive into Kigali International Airport on Day 1 of the tour. A private arrival transfer from the airport to the group hotel in Kigali is included. The transfer takes approximately 30 minutes.
The tour begins with an arrival day and adventure briefing in Kigali before the cycling program starts on Day 2.
Departure Information
Fly Out Of: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Departure City: Kigali
Departure Details: On Day 10, the group transfers from the Musanze/Volcanoes National Park region back to Kigali, followed by an included transfer to Kigali International Airport for onward departures. The drive to Kigali takes approximately 2–3 hours.
We recommend booking departing flights from Kigali no earlier than late afternoon or evening on Day 10 to allow sufficient transfer time from northern Rwanda.
Rwanda's high elevation provides a pleasant climate year-round. The best cycling seasons are during the two dry periods: June to September and December to February. These months offer warm days (20-27°C/68-80°F), cooler nights, and minimal rainfall, ideal for gravel cycling. The long rainy season (March-May) and short rains (October-November) can make trails muddy but bring lush green landscapes. Eastern Province is generally drier and warmer than other regions, making it suitable for cycling throughout most of the year with proper rain gear during wet seasons.
January
Best
February
Best
March
Mixed
April
Offseason
May
Mixed
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Good
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport or apply for an e-visa in advance through the official Rwanda immigration website. Check current requirements for your nationality well before departure.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.
The tour is rated moderate to challenging with 280 kilometers over six riding days. Daily distances range from 30.5 to 65 kilometers with moderate elevation gains. The terrain mixes gravel roads and some paved sections, requiring good bike handling skills and reasonable fitness.
A gravel bike is ideal for this tour due to the mix of gravel roads, compact dirt trails, and some paved sections. The bike should have wider tires suitable for varied terrain and comfortable geometry for multi-day riding.
Gorilla trekking permits are optional and not included in the base tour price. These must be booked and paid separately in advance as permits are limited and in high demand. Golden monkey trekking is an alternative option.
Akagera National Park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) plus zebra, giraffe, hippos, crocodiles, various antelope species, and over 500 bird species. Wildlife sightings vary but are generally excellent year-round.
Plastic bags, drones, and radio/walkie-talkie equipment are strictly prohibited in Rwanda. All luggage is scanned upon arrival at Kigali International Airport. It's recommended to pack in reusable bags.
Yes, solo travelers are welcome and will be matched with others in the group. The minimum group size is 4 people and maximum is 10, creating an intimate group experience with opportunities to connect with fellow cyclists.
