9 Days Discover Rwanda Burundi by Motorcycle

Travelers looking for a journey that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural insights will find this 9-day motorcycle tour through Rwanda and Burundi a compelling option. While it might not be the easiest trip—think challenging unpaved roads and mountainous terrain—those craving off-the-beaten-path experiences will appreciate the raw beauty and authenticity of these two small African nations.

What we love about this tour: It takes you through less-visited villages, offers breathtaking views along Lake Kivu, and provides a chance to see local life far from tourist crowds. Plus, the support team, including a mechanic and local driver, helps keep the journey smooth. However, keep in mind that some days involve tough riding on narrow or rugged paths, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on a motorcycle and in good physical condition.

This trip is ideal for adventure seekers, motorcycle enthusiasts, or those eager to explore hidden gems in East Africa with a taste for authentic, unfiltered experiences. If you’re up for a journey that pushes your limits but rewards you with incredible scenery and cultural encounters, this could be your next adventure.

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Key Points

Authentic Experience: Explore remote villages and meet locals rarely seen by travelers.
Scenic Routes: Expect stunning views of lakes, mountains, and tea plantations.
Adventure Level: Be prepared for off-road driving through challenging terrains.
Support Team: A dedicated mechanic and support vehicle ensure safety and vehicle care.
Cultural Insights: Cross borders and see the diverse landscapes and communities.
Value: All-inclusive price covers motorcycle hire, accommodation, and support, offering great value compared to similar tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Looking for more options in Kigali? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Your adventure kicks off at Kigali Airport, where you’ll be greeted and taken to your hotel. This initial meet-and-greet with your guide and the group sets the tone—expect a friendly welcome and some last-minute briefing about the trip ahead. Staying in Kigali allows you a chance to stretch your legs and get a feel for Rwanda’s vibrant capital before heading off into the wilderness.

Day 2: Kigali to Kirunda – Cross into Burundi

The journey starts with a scenic drive south, mixing asphalt and gravel roads. This first day offers a taste of the diverse terrain you’ll encounter—ranging from city streets to rural landscapes. Crossing the border into Burundi is a key highlight, and if the pace is quick enough, you’ll enjoy a beautiful route along Lake Tanganyika’s shores. The lakeside scenery is serene and offers perfect photo opportunities. Expect a gradual transition from cityscape to tranquil lakeside vistas.

Day 3: Kirunda to Gitega

This day combines paved roads and unpaved mountain trails through Burundi’s lush highlands. After a lunch break in Ngozi, you’ll continue through mountain villages and terraced fields. The route’s variation between paved and dirt roads means you’ll get a true feel for local life and landscapes. The winding mountain roads are often narrow, so patience and caution are essential, but the views of lush greenery and distant peaks make every twist worth it.

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Day 4: Gitega to Bujumbura – Mountain Off-Roading

Today features more off-road riding—think narrow mountain tracks that pass through small, mostly untouched villages. This is where the tour shines in terms of authenticity; you’ll see communities that have seen few foreigners, especially on motorcycles. The route through the Monge Forest reserve is a particular highlight, offering a sense of adventure and immersion into natural surroundings.

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Day 5: Bujumbura to Karongi (Rwanda)

A long but rewarding day, starting with a flat, straight drive through Burundi’s lowlands toward the border. You’ll pass by refugee camps and rural landscapes, which add an important context to the journey—these areas tell stories of regional history and resilience. Crossing into Rwanda, you’ll immediately notice a change in scenery—richer, greener, and increasingly mountainous.

Day 6: Karongi along Lake Kivu to Ruhengeri

This is a day of breathtaking lakeside views as you follow the Congo-Nile route along Lake Kivu’s shoreline. The mountainous terrain provides stunning vistas of water and lush hillsides. The support vehicle takes a different route, giving an extra layer of exploration, while you soak in the peaceful yet dramatic scenery. Expect to stop often for photos or just to take in the view.

Day 7: Ruhengeri to Nyagatare – Challenging Mountain Roads

This leg is arguably the most demanding, with unpaved, narrow, sometimes tricky paths winding past tea and coffee plantations and alongside picturesque lakes. It tests your riding skills and stamina, but the reward is the sense of achievement and the chance to see some of the most beautiful, less-touristed parts of Rwanda. You’ll get a true sense of rural life and natural beauty.

Day 8: Nyagatare to Kigali via Reservoir

The final riding day starts on a main road before veering onto a dirt track on the approach to Kigali. You’ll pass along the southern side of a reservoir, with stunning water views and lush surroundings. As the city nears, traffic increases, giving you a glimpse into urban life after days of rural explorations.

Day 9: City Exploration & Departure

On your last day, you have the opportunity to explore Kigali. Visiting sites like the Genocide Memorial or the luxurious Rwanda Hotel offers a reflective and cultural ending to your journey. Departure times vary, often in the late afternoon or evening, giving you some final moments in this vibrant city.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The all-inclusive package offers a lot of peace of mind: motorcycle hire, airport transfers, most breakfasts, fuel for the support vehicle, and an English-speaking guide. The support vehicle, driven by a local driver and accompanied by a mechanic, ensures safety and support throughout the trip. This setup allows you to focus on riding and enjoying the scenery without worrying about logistics.

However, the tour excludes international flights, visas, meals beyond breakfast, and personal expenses. Optional permits for gorilla or chimpanzee tracking are also not included but represent an opportunity if you want to deepen your experience in Rwanda.

Value for Money

At $2,576 per person, the price covers a comprehensive package—motorcycles, support, accommodation, and guided exploration. Given the remote, challenging routes and the variety of landscapes, this is a good deal for travelers who want an authentic and adventurous experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Practical Considerations

Terrain & Riding Skills: Many days involve unpaved, narrow, and sometimes difficult roads. Riders should be comfortable on off-road terrain and prepared for physically demanding days.
Group Dynamics: The tour is likely to involve a group of fellow adventure enthusiasts, creating a lively, supportive atmosphere.
Physical Fitness: Good stamina helps, especially on days with challenging riding. Flexibility and a sense of humor go a long way.
Cultural Sensitivity: You’ll pass through villages where local life remains largely untouched by tourism—be respectful and open-minded.

The Sum Up

This 9-day motorcycle adventure through Rwanda and Burundi offers a rare glimpse into two countries where natural beauty and authentic rural life take center stage. It’s ideal for those craving an active, immersive experience that goes beyond typical tourist routes. The combination of stunning lakes, mountain vistas, and remote villages makes it a memorable journey, especially for motorcycle lovers comfortable with some challenging riding.

While it’s not suited for casual travelers or those seeking luxury, the value lies in the genuine encounters and breathtaking landscapes. The support team makes the journey safer and more comfortable, but be prepared for a physically demanding adventure. If you’re eager to explore East Africa’s less-trodden paths on two wheels, this trip is a strong contender.

For those who want more than just a sightseeing tour and are ready to get their hands dirty (or muddy), this trip offers a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is better suited for those comfortable on motorcycles and with some off-road riding experience. The terrain can be challenging, with narrow and unpaved roads.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect mountain vistas, lakeside views along Lake Kivu, lush plantations, and remote villages. The landscapes are varied and often breathtaking.

Are the roads difficult?
Yes, many days involve unpaved, narrow, and sometimes steep paths, especially through mountain areas. Riders should be prepared for physically demanding conditions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers motorcycle hire, support vehicle, fuel for the support vehicle, most breakfasts, all airport transfers, and an English-speaking guide. Accommodation is also included.

Can I see wildlife or do special activities?
While the tour doesn’t include gorilla or chimpanzee permits, you might find the experience of crossing borders and passing through rural communities more rewarding in terms of cultural exposure.

Is there a support vehicle?
Yes, a support vehicle with a local driver and mechanic accompanies the tour, ensuring safety and vehicle maintenance.

When can I cancel or reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

This motorcycle tour offers a genuine, active way to discover Rwanda and Burundi’s natural and cultural riches. With stunning scenery, remote villages, and the thrill of riding through varied terrains, it’s a true adventure for those seeking something different in East Africa.