RWANDA MULTI-SPORT
WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING
“Every part of the trip was well coordinated. All three guides (Sergio, Roberto & Jorge) were communicative and friendly and kept us informed throughout the trip. We will definitely plan our next trip with OneSeed. This was the best guided trip I have been on, thanks for offering it!”
“OneSeed was incredible. INCREDIBLE. … They took care of all the planning, transportation, and accommodations - it was great to not have to worry about the details.”
“I would strongly recommend OneSeed Expeditions because I love its philosophy and business model. It is good to know that my travel adventure has a positive impact in the community and that the guides and porters are treated fairly.”
Read More Reviews
packing list
WHAT TO BRING
You are responsible for the personal clothing and gear listed below. Pack for cycling, paddling and hiking, including time in the highlands and a simple island camp.
Packing System:
Carry a daypack for the items you need during each activity and pack your main luggage for a journey that includes lake crossings and an island camp. A support boat transports main luggage during the two Congo Nile Trail hiking stages. Bring clothing for hiking, cycling and paddling, including a dry change after time on the water.
DON'T FORGET
We need you to have everything on the list below for our expedition to go smoothly, so there is no one item that is more important than another. Double-check your entire list and make sure to have/review these important items below.
VALID PASSPORT
Check current entry requirements for your passport and travel route.
MEDICAL INSURANCE CARD
Purchase your own travel insurance with coverage for this itinerary’s activities, medical care and emergency evacuation.
REQUIRED VACCINATIONS
Review current travel-health guidance with a qualified clinician before departure.
The List (check it twice)
Trekking Gear
Daypack for personal items during activities
Comfortable walking shoes
Personal clothing suitable for hiking, cycling and paddling
Sun hat and sunscreen
Light clothing that can get wet, such as shorts and a T-shirt
Change of dry clothing after paddling
Sandals or other footwear that can get wet
Raincoat for wet conditions
Reusable water bottle
Sleeping bag
Mosquito net (recommended for the simple Nyungwe-area overnight)
Documents and Logistics
Passport and copies of important travel documents
Current entry requirements for your passport and travel route
Flight information for arrival and departure in Kigali
Traveler-purchased insurance documents and emergency contact details
Other (optional)
Camera or phone for use on land; leave valuables and water-sensitive items safely stored during paddling
Terrain
CLIMATE OVERVIEW
Rwanda has a tropical highland climate, with temperatures changing more between locations than between months. Conditions around the Virunga mountains are cooler than in lower-lying areas, so bring layers as the journey moves between Kigali, forest and lake.
Rain is more common from mid-February through May and from mid-September through mid-December. June to mid-September is generally drier, although showers remain possible. Pack a raincoat and expect walking and cycling conditions to vary with the weather.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter what time I arrive or depart?
- Airport arrival and departure transfers in Kigali are included on Days 1 and 10. Submit your flight information before departure, and contact OneSeed to coordinate flights or stays outside the itinerary dates.
Do I need a visa? And what about passport requirements?
- Check current entry requirements for your passport. Review visa and passport requirements before booking flights and again before departure.
What happens if my trip is altered due to unforeseen circumstances?
- Weather, transportation delays, and local conditions may require changes. Review OneSeed's Terms & Conditions and insurance options before travel.
Do I need any immunizations or medicine?
- Talk with your physician about your travel plans and review the CDC's current guidance for Rwanda. Carry your personal medications and a first-aid kit.
Do I need travel insurance?
- Yes. Travelers must purchase their own emergency medical and evacuation insurance. Choose coverage for every activity in your itinerary and review OneSeed's insurance information before departure.
How many people will be on my expedition?
- This is a PRIVATE expedition for your own traveling party. Contact OneSeed to discuss your group size, dates, and pricing.
Cancellation and refund policy
- Please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Do I need to tip my guide?
- Tips for your guides and support team are appreciated. Review OneSeed's tipping guide for recommendations before departure.
Is gorilla trekking included?
- Gorilla trekking is an optional activity requiring separate arrangements and an appropriate permit. Golden monkey trekking, canoeing or a rest day are alternative options for the day in the Volcanoes area.
How difficult is this expedition?
- OneSeed rates this expedition 3/5. Expect challenging hilly cycling, kayaking stages and consecutive hiking days on the Congo Nile Trail. Travelers must be at least 16.
Where will we stay?
- The itinerary includes nine overnight stops: two in Kigali, one near Nyungwe, one in Karongi, one camping on Gishayu Island, one in Kinunu, one in Cyimbili and two near Volcanoes National Park. The island camp is self-sufficient, with limited facilities.
Will I carry all my luggage on the hikes?
- A support boat carries main luggage during the two Congo Nile Trail hiking stages. Carry a daypack for items you need during the day.
Do I need previous kayaking experience?
- The proposed kayaking activity includes paddling instructions, with guides close by on the water. You should be reasonably fit and mobile for the lake stages.
Can I add a safari?
- An Akagera safari is a possible separate extension. It is not part of the ten-day core itinerary.
Will the cycling day be car-free?
- The Kigali Car Free Day ride depends on the departure calendar. Confirm the riding arrangements for your dates before booking.
