RWANDA

Gorillas & volcanoes

Rwanda is a green undulating landscape of hills, gardens and tea plantations. The Volcanoes National Park, made famous by Dian Fossey, is home to one third of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, one third of Africa’s bird species, several species of primates and – as the name would suggest – volcanoes.

Lake Kivu is the largest of numerous freshwater bodies that shimmer in the valleys of Rwanda and Akagera National Park offers a complete contrast with big game viewing. Fed by the Akagera River, the park attracts vast numbers of antelope including oribi, duiker and reedbuck as well as one of the few places in Africa to see a Shoebill Stork. Akagera is not without its mammals either, lion, hyena, leopard and with plans to reintroduce the black rhino will make this Rwanda’s only Big 5 destination.

Nyungwe National Park is a less visited corner of Rwanda. Its pristine rain forests are home to some 400 chimpanzees and huge troops of Colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys.

It too is a wonderful haven of beautiful and diverse species of bird, many of which are endemic to the region.

Kigali City is among the safest and friendliest of African capitals, and will be the entry point for many visitors who may often need to spend a night here. For those with time to linger there are several fascinating museums and the Genocide Monument. Rwanda’s location in the Albertine Rift and its dense forests and mountains create a unique and remarkable environment with an impressive bird list of over 700 species recorded, and supports the second highest number of Albertine Rift endemics of any country.

For most, a visit to Rwanda is to see the gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park where there are limited permits each day and pre booking is essential. A gorilla visit will entail a 1 to 4 hour trek through the forest, led by experienced trackers. You may spot golden monkeys or see buffalo, bush duiker and a wide variety of bird life. But the high point, of course, is spending an hour with the gentle giant gorillas – one of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth.

When To Go

♦ Gorilla trekking takes part year-round, although it can be difficult in the wet season.

♦ Warm, drier weather is best between June –September and December – February.

♦ The longest wet season is March – May when many areas are difficult to reach. Shorter rains fall between October and November, gorilla trekking permits are often cheaper at this time.