RWANDA
THE LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS
Travel information for Rwanda
Explore Rwanda: The Land of a Thousand Hills Rwanda, often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills, is a stunning country in East Africa known for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredible wildlife. Despite its tumultuous past, Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s premier travel destinations, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that attracts visitors from around the globe.
Majestic Landscapes and Wildlife
Rwanda’s landscape is characterized by lush green hills, serene lakes, and expansive savannas. The country’s diverse ecosystems are home to a wide array of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its mountain gorillas. This park is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the magic of gorilla trekking. Tracking these gentle giants through the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains is an unforgettable adventure that offers intimate encounters with one of our closest relatives.
Rwanda Vacation Packages
Highlights
- Embark on an extraordinary adventure trekking mountain gorillas in the dense forests of the Virunga Mountains.
- Marvel at the picturesque landscape of undulating hills, terraced farmlands, volcanic mountains, and untamed lush countryside.
- Discover the rich biodiversity of Nyungwe National Park, a haven for endangered primates, where you can track wild chimpanzees and other primates. Don’t miss the exhilarating experience of walking on the canopy walkway, offering a unique perspective of the ancient treetops and wildlife.
- Journey through the famous circuit connecting national parks, immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery and warm interactions with the friendly locals.
- Explore Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park, and encounter the iconic Big Five.
- Immerse yourself in Rwanda’s vibrant culture, from the cosmopolitan city of Kigali, with its genocide memorials and museums, to the traditional countryside gatherings and annual events like the Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony.
- Experience the tranquility of Lake Kivu’s coastline by kayaking, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning mountainous backdrop from the serenity of the water.
RWANDA SAFARIS TRAVEL GUIDE
Why you must vacation in Rwanda.
Besides gorilla trekking, the rise of Rwanda as a top tourist spot in East Africa is well-deserved and should be considered for your next vacation. The country’s dedication to conservation and sustainable tourism has transformed it into a top destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its captivating landscapes, diverse ecosystem, and distinctive cultural heritage, Rwanda is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic African wildlife safari encounter.
A key factor that distinguishes Rwanda as a top safari destination is its remarkable achievements in safeguarding gorillas. The Volcanoes National Park is a haven for the endangered mountain gorillas, offering visitors a rare chance to go on gorilla trekking expeditions. This extraordinary opportunity lets you observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, witnessing their intricate social dynamics. The encounter with a mountain gorilla is an unforgettable memory.
Rwanda’s dedication to conservation goes beyond gorilla preservation. Sheltering the renowned Big Five, Akagera National Park in the east provides captivating wildlife safari experiences. The park allows for exhilarating game drives to spot lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. Its scenic setting, adorned with lakes, savannahs, and wetlands, enhances the allure of your safari journey.
What to see, where to go
Yet, Rwanda’s appeal extends beyond its wildlife safaris. In the far southwest lies Nyungwe Forest National Park, a sanctuary for primates and birds. This lush rainforest shelters various primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Bird enthusiasts can revel in the park’s diverse avian population, encompassing over 300 species. Exploring Nyungwe Forest National Park immerses you in a mystical world where nature’s marvels unfold before your eyes.
Beyond the well-known safari destinations, Rwanda boasts hidden treasures waiting to be explored. The remote and breathtaking Gishwati-Mukura National Park unveils the country’s reforestation endeavors and provides a habitat for rare species such as chimpanzees and golden monkeys. The serene and less-frequented Lake Kivu offers a tranquil getaway with its unspoiled beaches and opportunities for water-centric activities.
Best places to visit on vacation in Rwanda
From the lush greenery of Volcanoes National Park, where you can embark on a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure, to the serene shores of Lake Kivu, where tranquility merges with stunning vistas, these are the best places to visit on vacation in Rwanda. Explore the vibrant streets of Kigali, the capital city, where the resilience and progress of a nation are reflected in its bustling markets and captivating museums. Discover the ancient mysteries of Nyungwe Forest, home to an extraordinary array of primates and a sanctuary for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace. Amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes and warm hospitality, Rwanda vacation spots inspire us to cherish our world’s beauty and strive for a future where harmony and conservation thrive.
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is one of only four places where visitors can commune with the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is a small chunk of the Virunga Mountains and Rwanda’s tourism and conservation jewel. It is where you’ll watch the gorillas up close.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park may be most famous for chimpanzee trekking, but this stretch of lush woodland is dazzling with unique flora and fauna and an impressive spread of hiking trails. Wander through this jungle to meet chimps and see rare wildlife.
Kigali City
Most people will travel to Rwanda to see gorillas – but everyone should stay for the prolific cultural and historical medley in its cool, arty capital, Kigali, which deserves at least a few nights. Start or finish your first safari holiday to Rwanda in Kigali capital.
Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park may be most famous for chimpanzee trekking, but this stretch of lush woodland is dazzling with unique flora and fauna and an impressive spread of hiking trails. Wander through this jungle to meet chimps and see rare wildlife.
Essential Rwanda Travel Information
The Kigali International Airport (KGL) serves as the primary international gateway to Rwanda, providing well-connected flights to various destinations. The country boasts a well-maintained road network, making it easy to navigate and explore different regions. Depending on your nationality, visa requirements vary, but many visitors can obtain an e-visa in advance. It is advisable to have travel insurance and check vaccination requirements before arriving. Rwanda has a reliable electricity supply, primarily using Type C and J plug sockets, so it’s recommended to bring appropriate adapters. Taking necessary precautions, such as drinking bottled water and practicing good hygiene, will help ensure a healthy trip. Below, you can find more essential travel information for Rwanda