2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali

2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda

Get ready for a historic sporting event like no other! From September 21 to 28, 2025, Rwanda will make history as the first African country to host the UCI Road World Championships. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kigali’s rolling hills and scenic streets, this global cycling competition promises a week of high-energy racing and unforgettable moments.

Thousands of elite cyclists from around the world will descend on Kigali to compete in one of the most prestigious cycling events on the planet. This is your chance to witness world-class racing while experiencing the beauty, culture, and adventure that Rwanda has to offer.

What to Expect at the UCI Road World Championships in Kigali

During the week-long event, Kigali’s vibrant streets will transform into a world-class race course. Over 1,000 top athletes will compete for 11 championship titles, including:

• Elite Road Races for men, women, U23, and juniors

• Individual Time Trials across all age groups

• Team Time Trial Mixed Relay

• The Men’s Elite Road Race, the crown jewel of the championship, will cover a grueling 266.9 km with over 4 km of elevation—testing endurance, strategy, and raw cycling power.

Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or a traveler seeking a unique African experience, this championship is not to be missed.

Things to Do in Rwanda During the UCI Road World Championships

While the races are the main attraction, Rwanda offers a rich array of experiences for visitors. Here are the top things to do while attending the event:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trek through lush forests to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This is Rwanda’s signature wildlife experience and a bucket-list adventure for nature lovers.

2. Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park

Home to chimpanzees, rare bird species, and Africa’s only canopy walk, Nyungwe offers incredible hiking trails and biodiversity in one of the continent’s oldest rainforests.

3. Golden Monkey Trekking

Visit Volcanoes National Park for a lighter but equally exciting trek to see the playful golden monkeys—unique primates found only in the Virunga Mountains.

4. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

Gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history with a visit to this moving and informative memorial site. It’s a powerful experience that offers reflection and insight into the country’s journey of resilience and healing.

5. Go on Safari in Akagera National Park

Experience a traditional African safari and search for the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—within Akagera’s scenic savannah landscapes.

6. Relax at Lake Kivu

Unwind after the races by visiting Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The lakeside towns of Gisenyi and Kibuye are perfect for swimming, kayaking, boat rides, and watching the sunset.

7. Discover Rwanda’s Culture

• Iby’iwacu Cultural Village: Enjoy traditional Rwandan music, dance, and storytelling.

• King’s Palace Museum (Nyanza): Step back in time to explore Rwanda’s royal heritage.

8. Hike Mount Bisoke

Challenge yourself with a scenic hike up this dormant volcano, featuring a beautiful crater lake at the summit and panoramic views of the Virunga range.

9. Visit the Ethnographic Museum in Huye

Explore one of Africa’s best cultural museums with exhibits on Rwanda’s pre-colonial history, traditions, and way of life.

10. Tour Rwanda’s Tea Plantations

Take a scenic drive through the tea-growing regions of Gisovu and Gisakura. Learn about tea production and enjoy serene walks among the terraced plantations.

Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park? Choosing the right accommodation is key to a comfortable and memorable stay. Fortunately, the area offers a wide range of lodges to suit every budget—from luxury escapes to affordable guesthouses.

Luxury Lodges in Volcanoes National Park
For a premium safari experience, consider staying at one of the park’s luxurious lodges. These include:

• Bisate Lodge

• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

• Virunga Lodge

• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel

• Mountain Gorilla’s Nest Lodge

Luxury rates typically range from USD 300 to USD 1000 per person per night, offering exceptional hospitality, breathtaking views, and close proximity to gorilla trekking start points.

Mid-Range Lodges
Travelers seeking a balance between comfort and affordability will find great mid-range options such as:

• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge

• Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge

• Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

These lodges offer well-appointed rooms, good service, and great access to park activities at moderate rates.

Budget Accommodation
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several quality options available, including:

• Hotel Muhabura

• Kinigi Guesthouse

• Villa Gorilla

• Gorilla Solution Lodge

• La Palme Hotel

• Home Inn

• Faraji Hotel

• Virunga Hotel

Budget options range from basic guesthouses to camping-style stays—ideal for backpackers or travelers who want to keep costs low without sacrificing experience.

Where to Stay in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park offers a variety of lodging options, from luxury eco-lodges to more affordable stays, all within reach of the park’s wildlife-rich savannahs.

Luxury Lodges
Top luxury accommodations in Akagera include:

• Ruzizi Tented Lodge

• Akagera Game Lodge

• Akagera Rhino Lodge

Rates typically range between USD 200 and USD 300 per person per night, with amenities like private decks, beautiful lake views, and eco-friendly designs.

Where to Stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, known for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks, also offers excellent accommodations across all price ranges.

Luxury Stay

• One&Only Nyungwe House
  This five-star retreat delivers unmatched service, luxury suites, fine dining, and an immersive rainforest experience. Prices range from USD 300 to USD 1000 per person per night.

Mid-Range Options

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

• Gisakura Guesthouse
  These provide scenic views and easy access to forest trails, with clean rooms and warm hospitality.

All lodges in Nyungwe follow strict health and safety protocols, ensuring guest wellbeing throughout their stay.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda?

Rwanda is a year-round destination, but the dry seasons—June to September and December to February—are considered the best times to visit. These months offer clearer trails and better visibility for:

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Golden monkey tracking

• Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest

• Wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park

If you’re a birdwatcher, however, the wet season (March to May and October to November) brings migratory species and rich birdlife, making it ideal for birding.

Why Book Your Rwanda Trip with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft personalized Rwanda travel experiences—whether you’re coming for gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural tours, or major events like the UCI Road World Championships in Kigali.

Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Expert Knowledge: We’re a Ugandan-owned company with deep local expertise and years of experience exploring East Africa.

• Reliable & Responsive: Our professional team offers quick, honest advice and will guide you every step of the way.

• Top Reviews: We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot, thanks to our commitment to quality service.

• Up-to-Date Info: Our website is packed with the latest travel tips, lodge reviews, and safari packages for Rwanda.

Ready to plan your Rwanda adventure or attend the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali? Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today and let us help you create a journey you’ll never forget.