The first thing that springs to most people’s minds when thinking of Rwanda is its turbulent political history. But today’s Rwanda is a far cry from the nation it was in the mid-90s: the country has emerged from the shadows and has much to offer visitors, most notably the tracking of endangered mountain gorillas in the lush Virunga National Park, which extends across the peaks and jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Other major tourist attractions include expansive Lake Kivu, ancient Nyungwe Forest with its rich population of primate species, and the game-rich savannah lands of Akagera National Park.
Kigali is Rwanda’s capital, Kigali is a pleasant safe city which ranges over several hills. The largest of which is Mount Kigali, rising 1850 metres above sea level. Founded in 1907, Kigali is the country’s financial, commercial and cultural hub. But Kigali did not become the capital until Rwanda’s independence in 1962 when it replaced the colonial seat of power of Butare.
If your flight connections is such that you need to overnight here, there are a range of hotels and restaurants. Why not use this opportunity to visit the thought-provoking and shocking Kigali Genocide Museum? Or visit its atmospheric markets or numerous craft shop for authentic Rwandan crafts and distinctive cloth?
With its interesting architecture, busy streets, meandering boulevards, and green hillsides, Kigali is said to be one of the most attractive cities in Africa and is definitely worth a visit.
The volcanic mountains of the Virungas straddle Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). They are home to roughly half of the world's estimated population of only 700 mountain gorillas. In Rwanda there are 7 habituated mountain gorilla group, which are protected within the Volcanoes National Park. So this is one of the best places for gorilla tracking.
The park is set high on the jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Highly regulated treks from 2 hours up to 6 hours are taken to find them in the reserve . Once found, you are allowed to spend one magical hour with these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
But gorilla tracking in Rwanda is a highly regulated affair, given their endangered status. And permits are both very expensive and hard to come by. So we recommend booking as far in advance as possible (ie several months to a year).
Other Activities
However gorilla tracking is only one of the facets of the Volcanoes National Park. It also protects other primates such as the endemic golden monkey, forest elephant (very rare), buffalo, giant forest hog, bushbuck, black-fronted duiker, spotted hyena. And around 180 species of birds enjoy these forest surroundings.
If you have an extra day to spare, we recommend spending the second day tracking the Golden Monkeys. They inhabit the bamboo forest on the lower slopes. Or you can explore the network of scenic hiking trails. Why not visit the tomb of the world-famous Dian Fossey and the Karisoke Research Centre. Alternatively you can enjoy a beautiful day hike to the Crater Lake on Mount Bisoke.
