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.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is known primarily for its primate safaris, trekking to see colobus monkets| Rwanda safaris by Cedarberg Africa
Situated in south-west Rwanda, the Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity and its wide range of endemic flora and fauna. It is one of Africa’s most ancient forests and the home of Rwanda’s sole remaining chimpanzee population, as well as 85 other mammal species, 43 reptile species, nearly 300 bird species including the Ross’ turaco, grey-cheeked hornbill, red-breasted sparrow hawk and the regal sunbird, 24 of them endemic to this area. It is characterized by lush tracts of rainforest set high up on fertile mountain slopes.
Here you can enjoy spotting colobus monkeys and chimpanzees hiding in the trees, hiking on a well-maintained network of trails passing through lush equatorial rainforest and catching a glimpse of a beautiful array of colourful birdlife.
Don’t miss the thrilling Nyungwe Canopy Walk, it is one of its kind in Rwanda and offers impressive views of the forest.
One of Africa’s Great Lakes, Lake Kivu is the sixth-largest lake in the world. It covers a whopping surface area of roughly 2,700 square kilometres. Plus it’s also one of the deepest, reaching to almost 500 metres at its maximum.
Steep forested hills plunge into this beautiful Rift Valley lake with its palm-fringed little sandy bays. A wild roller-coaster road connects the three resort towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu. The road meanders through lush terraced fields and patches of misty rain forest. Occasionally it offers sweeping views over the blue waters. And behind the lake is the spectacular backdrop of the Virunga volcanic mountains.
Gisenyi
The colonial old town of Gisenyi has a scenic location at the foot of fertile hills. Gisenyi is set on a sandy beach lined with swaying palms.The town offers an excellent variety of activities, including fantastic coffee shops and restaurants, an array of watersports on the lake, and some delightful beaches. The Calafia Cafe is a not-to-be-missed spot which serves delicious pastries (the banana cake is famous) and other cuisine, alongside wonderful ethically produced local coffee. Visitors can kayak, boat, take hikes to see gorillas, or go on historical and cultural tours. The beach offers a charming location for swimming and picnicking. Don’t miss the opportunity to meander through the atmospheric Main Market, go beer tasting at the brewery, or visit the local youth cultural centre to see kids practice dance, music, and gymnastics.
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.
