Rwanda – “the land of a thousand hills” – offers a new aspect to Africa and a different holiday experience to that of other East African countries. With its stunning landscape including dramatic volcanoes, thick rainforest and vast lakes, Rwanda ensures that travellers have a truly unforgettable time.
As a small Central African nation situated to the west of Tanzania, Rwanda is a western arm of the Great Rift Valley and on the watershed between the Nile and the Congo – Africa’s two largest rivers. Its physical beauty is unique on the African Continent with vibrant green grasslands, dazzling riverine forests and breathtaking mountain views.
Rwanda is a must-see for anyone looking for an exhilarating safari adventure. A highlight to any Rwanda holiday is a gorilla safari through the rainforest to track and observe the endangered Mountain Gorillas that inhabit the Parc National des Volcans. Mountain Gorillas are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species and are classified as ‘critically endangered’ with just 790 individuals currently recorded. There are no Mountain Gorillas living outside of their native mountain forest home or in captivity. The Parc National des Volcans is home to many family groups of this incredible species and expert guides lead tours to see them at close range in their natural habitat.
Akagera National Park is located in the east of Rwanda bordering Tanzania. It covers over 2500 square kilometres of savannah and is home to a wide variety of animals and birdlife.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s last remaining high altitude rainforests, and one of the largest of these ancient areas. This beautiful mountainous terrain harbours many primates including chimpanzees and is Rwanda’s most important site for bird watching.
Lake Kivu is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and is the deepest fresh water lake in the world. Surrounded by the Rift Valley and Virunga mountains it has picturesque sandy shores and provides a beautiful setting at which to relax after a gorilla trek.
