Rwanda Congo Nile Trail

In this four-day short tour, the focus will be on the famous Congo Nile Trail. Even though this trail is slowly being paved, there are enough challenging parts left. Moreover, each of the four routes will be equally challenging in some parts. This tour covers the best routes in the northwest of Rwanda.

RNT-header

RNT-motor

RNT-block

RNT-header

1/7

Day 1 - Kigali – Nyagatare

Leaving the busy city roads behind, we ride smaller country roads towards the north. We hit the main road again for a short while, before we enter a small offroad track that leads us into the small town of Nyagatare

Day 2 - Nyagatare – Ruhengeri

The day starts with a challenging offroad track, that will take most of the morning. The main road crossing will be used to get a good lunch, before we hit a long gravel road towards the twin lakes. We take the northern gravel road around to top lake for the best views. Ruhengeri is the gorilla tracking centre of Rwanda, it became a bustling town.

Day 3 - Ruhengeri – Gitesi

We leave town using the busy main road. We will have a few offroad d-tours before arriving at our small local lunch outlet. Shortly after we will enter the famous congo nile trail. We can expect some challenges on the way, since the road is prone to landslides. The track ends just north of Gitesi on the shores of lake Kivu, looking at Congo on the other side.

Day 4 - Gitesi – Kigali

The last riding day will be done over gravel roads for most of the morning. This area is famous for the extensive tea plantations. The last few hours of the day will be a bit more busy approaching Kigali.

Motorbikes

During this trip you ride on a Haojin 200cc or equivalent motorbike

Difficulty and Offroad

During this trip, we do not ride at significant heights. The bad slippery roads (particularly after rain) can make travel heavy; however, this will probably only last a few days. About 80% of the route is on asphalt roads, which are often of remarkably good quality. Most gravel roads are also in decent condition. For a small part of the trip, we ride on more challenging unpaved roads. The quality of these roads is very different.

Accommodation

During this trip, you will stay in comfortable hotels and a decent guesthouse. Some places are basic, family-run accommodations, but are the nicest options in town

Climate

Rwanda has two rainy seasons. In spring, from March to May, and from October to November in autumn. Since this trip is just below the equator, the average temperature throughout the year is 25-30 degrees at daytime. At the evenings and at heights, we travel at altitudes of 1500-2500 meters -it can be chilly.

Clothing

Mandatory items include a helmet, motorcycle jacket with protection, gloves, a good, strong pair of (motorcycle) trousers with protection or separate knee Armor, and sturdy high (mountain) boots. Furthermore, we recommend bringing a good pair of sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen as well as a helmet with a visor or a good pair of glasses that also protects against the dust of unpaved roads. Pack also a sweater for the chilly moments.

Insurance

Motorcycles have compulsory basic liability insurance, which is also valid in Rwanda. Damage to the motorcycle itself cannot be insured.

Visa

For most nationalities, there is a visa requirement to enter Rwanda. The visa can be obtained online and can also be bought at arrival.

Tour code	Arrival dates	Days	Departure	Price
RNT2601	15-08-2026	4	18-08-2026

Included

All overnight stays, including most breakfasts
Motorcycle hire
English tour guide on motorcycle
Liability insurance for the motorcycle

Excluded

International flights
Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
All other meals, and drinks
Personal expenses
Fuel for motorcycle
Travel and Cancellation Insurance
Cost of visa

​

Rwanda Congo Nile Trail