Rwanda, known for its accessible and hassle-free gorilla trekking experiences, stands as a prime attraction for a safari adventure in Africa. Upon arrival in the capital city of Kigali, you are merely a few hours’ drive away from the renowned Volcanoes National Park, where you can encounter habituated yet untamed gorilla families.
The bamboo-clad slopes of Rwanda’s Virunga Volcanoes hold a significant place in history, having been the site where the late Dian Fossey dedicated two decades to studying the behavior of the endangered mountain gorillas. This iconic location also served as the backdrop for the filming of “Gorillas in the Mist.” Today, fortunate small groups of visitors have the privilege of embarking on a truly unforgettable wildlife experience – gorilla trekking through the unspoiled rainforests of the Virungas.
Rwanda offers a unique opportunity to connect with these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat, creating memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
Rwanda’s main attraction is its accessible and remarkable gorilla trekking, conveniently located just a few hours’ drive from the capital city of Kigali in Volcanoes National Park. This is where Dian Fossey studied mountain gorillas, as portrayed in Gorillas in the Mist. Visitors can now embark on small group treks through the pristine Virungas rainforest for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Rwanda also offers other natural wonders, such as Nyungwe Forest National Park with its primates and excellent bird-watching, as well as Akagera National Park for diverse savannah game viewing. Lake Kivu provides a picturesque setting for activities like boating, hiking, kayaking, and chimp trekking. Despite its tragic past, Rwanda has emerged as a friendly and compact destination that offers insights into Central African cultures, wildlife, and environments.
For an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Rwanda, the best time to visit is during the short dry season from mid-December to early February or the long dry season months of June to September. These periods offer favorable hiking conditions and lower malaria risk. While it’s possible to trek gorillas outside of these optimal times, be prepared for more challenging conditions and muddy paths during the rainy season. It’s advisable to be in good physical condition before embarking on the trek. On the other hand, for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, the best time to go is during the rainy seasons from mid-February to early June and mid-September to mid-December when the apes are easier to locate due to food availability. In the dry seasons, chimpanzee families tend to range farther into the forest interior.
Despite its small size, Rwanda offers a remarkable array of wildlife destinations, encompassing montane rainforests and grassy savannahs. The advantage of its compactness is that traveling between these captivating places is quick and straightforward. In fact, Rwanda, which is 1.5 times larger than South Africa’s Kruger National Park, boasts attractions that are typically within a manageable 4-hour drive from its capital city, Kigali.
Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is the main entry point for gorilla trekking adventures. It offers convenient connections from major logistics hubs and serves as a gateway to Volcanoes National Park. Known for its safety and cleanliness, Kigali prohibits plastic bags and takes strict safety measures. When visiting local markets, negotiating prices is not customary, and corruption is strongly discouraged. Allocating a full day in Kigali allows time to visit the impactful Genocide Memorial and explore the city’s vibrant old and new parts. With its welcoming atmosphere, Kigali offers easy access to Rwanda’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is the ultimate destination for gorilla trekking, offering unmatched encounters with habituated mountain gorillas amidst challenging terrain and lush forests. The park is also home to Dian Fossey’s Karisoke Research Station, where visitors can embark on a hike to her tomb, surrounded by captivating wildlife such as primates, elephants, and diverse bird species. Additionally, the park presents the opportunity to observe endangered golden monkeys with the required permits. Exploring the local culture is worthwhile, with guided community walks to Iby’Iwacu village, where traditional dancing, banana beer, and visits to local healers offer immersive experiences. For adventurous hikers, a rewarding two-day trek up Mount Karisimbi unveils breathtaking scenery, remarkable birdlife, and the summit of Africa’s fifth highest peak.
Nyungwe, with its vast expanse of montane forest, is a must-visit destination in Rwanda. This magnificent rainforest is a haven for diverse bird species, colorful butterflies, and beautiful orchids. However, the true highlights are the park’s 13 primate species, including the fascinating chimpanzees. Alongside fantastic hiking opportunities, the forest canopy walk provides a unique vantage point to observe the blue monkeys that dwell in the treetops. Nyungwe is a nature lover’s paradise that offers unforgettable encounters with Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.
Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, serves as a transition zone between the tropical forests of Central Africa and the dry savannahs of East Africa. This diverse ecosystem combines wetlands, rolling grasslands, and wooded areas, providing a habitat for a wide array of African wildlife. Within Akagera, you have the opportunity to spot iconic animals such as elephants, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, leopards, and various antelope species. Despite its relatively small size, the park offers rewarding guided Big 5 game drives, as well as private boat trips, sunset cruises, and night drives. As part of a remarkable conservation initiative, all members of the Big 5 are gradually being reintroduced to the area. Akagera National Park is conveniently accessible, situated just a 3-hour drive from Kigali.
Nestled along Rwanda’s western border, Lake Kivu captivates with its vast expanse of water encompassed by lush hillsides, creating a picturesque setting for a range of activities. From invigorating hikes and captivating chimp trekking to immersive bird watching and exhilarating canopy walks, the area offers diverse opportunities for exploration. Settle in the charming town of Gisenyi on the northern shore, where you can indulge in kayaking or boating adventures. Lake Kivu provides a serene escape, ideal for recovering from jet lag after a long-haul flight or unwinding after the exhilaration of gorilla trekking.
The official currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc, but it is advisable to carry US dollars (post-2003 bills) or euros in cash for better convenience. Traveler’s cheques often result in unfavorable exchange rates. It is recommended to take care of banking needs in Kigali, as opportunities outside the capital are limited. Bureaux de change establishments typically offer the most favorable exchange rates. While credit cards, particularly MasterCard, are accepted in some upscale hotels and restaurants in Kigali, they may not be widely accepted in other locations.
Tipping customs in Rwanda are different, with most places not expecting tips except for higher-end restaurants where 10% of the bill is customary. While tipping is not compulsory for gorilla trekking, it is greatly appreciated. Porters usually receive the highest tip, followed by guides, trackers, and security personnel. Hiring a porter is recommended, and tipping them well for their assistance is important. Feel free to ask our Africa Safari Experts for detailed tipping guidelines.
To be well-prepared for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, pack accordingly. Wear long, thick trousers and sleeves, and protect yourself with long socks or gaiters against ants. Bring light gloves, a hat, a raincoat, and sturdy hiking boots. As altitude can be cold and damp, carry a change of clothes, a warm fleece, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Be mindful of stinging nettles and wear protective gear. Avoid strong fragrances, opt for nature-inspired colors, and refrain from wearing black or blue to deter bugs. Use environmentally friendly bug spray. Consider bringing stationery or toys for village children. Consult a doctor for vaccinations and altitude medication, and pack anti-motion sickness medicine if needed.
Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport is the main entry point to Rwanda, located just a short drive from Kigali. Direct flights from Brussels are available, and other options include flights from Entebbe, Nairobi, Lusaka, or Johannesburg. The journey from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, where gorilla trekking takes place, is approximately 2.5 hours by road. Transfers within Rwanda are typically done in 4X4 vehicles, but helicopter flights from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park are also available. Given Rwanda’s small size, travel distances between major attractions are usually no more than four to five hours by road. In Kigali, exploring the city on the back of a local scooter can provide an efficient and authentic experience.
All visitors to Rwanda must have a passport valid for at least six months. Visa requirements apply to everyone except citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Hong Kong, Kenya, and South Africa. Multiple-entry tourist visas can be obtained from the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate. These visas are valid for three months and can typically be extended in Kigali on a month-by-month payment basis.
A gorilla-trekking permit is essential. It is important to note that children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks.
Rwanda, a small country in Central Africa, has a rich history of pre-colonial kingdoms and cattle-owning dynasties. It managed to avoid the devastating effects of the slave trade but later became a colony, first under German rule and then under Belgian control. In 1962, Rwanda gained independence, but its post-colonial journey has been marked by challenges. The country reached its lowest point during the 1994 genocide. However, since then, Rwanda has made remarkable progress and has become a significant player in regional affairs.
Although agriculture is the dominant sector, contributing 40% of GDP and employing 90% of the workforce, it is mostly subsistence farming with limited surplus. Cash crops like tea and coffee, as well as mining for rare metals, contribute to foreign revenue. However, tourism stands as the primary source of foreign exchange, playing a crucial role in Rwanda’s economy.
Rwanda is a green and fertile country with a dense population of over 11 million people, making it one of the most densely populated nations in Africa. The Twa, hunter-gatherers, were the earliest inhabitants, followed by Hutu farmers who now form the majority. The arrival of the Tutsis, known for cattle-raising, led to a shift in power dynamics. However, modern Rwanda transcends these ethnic labels. The country has a young population, with a significant percentage under 15, and the majority identify as Catholics, followed by Protestants. Kinyarwanda, French, and English are the official languages. Rwanda is considered safe, friendly, and easy to travel around. Its cultural scene thrives with music, dance, and a vibrant oral tradition of poetry and folk stories.
Rwanda, known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ is a landlocked country located at the heart of Africa. Its diverse landscape encompasses volcanoes, lush mountain ranges, lakes, and rivers. Positioned along the Albertine Rift Valley, Rwanda boasts incredible biodiversity, although much of its hill country and grasslands have been transformed for agricultural purposes. The country’s three reserves are home to its notable wildlife. Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its mountain gorillas and popular gorilla trekking experiences. Nyungwe Forest shelters various primate species, including chimpanzees, while the lesser-explored Akagera National Park offers a savannah experience in the east. Rwanda is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with an impressive record of approximately 670 bird species.
Nothing can prepare you for it. The moment you encounter a mountain gorilla in the wild. As you close in quietly to see a mother cradling her baby, just metres away from you in the legendary mist-shrouded Virunga Mountains, there’s a palpable sense of interconnectedness. From the land, to the wildlife, to the people. Everything is seamlessly woven into every level of the ecosystem. And the ripple effects are seen everywhere.
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