Rwanda
Rwanda, often referred to as the ‘land of a thousand hills’, offers an awe-inspiring landscape that captivates visitors. From the mist-covered mountainous terrain of the Virunga volcanoes, home to the world-renowned mountain gorillas, to the ancient montane rainforest of Nyungwe, rich in biodiversity with its chimpanzees and other primates, Rwanda’s natural offerings are as diverse as they are spectacular.
The serene waters of Lake Kivu provide a peaceful retreat, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and exploring the scenic islands scattered across its expanse. Meanwhile, the ongoing restoration of Akagera National Park stands as a testament to Rwanda’s dedication to conservation. Once nearly lost to poaching, the park now flourishes with lions, rhinos, and other species reintroduced through a successful partnership with the NGO African Parks.
The warm and welcoming people of Rwanda enrich every visit, though travelers will also encounter poignant reminders of the country’s dark history, particularly the 1994 genocide. The legacy of this tragedy still resonates, adding a deep, reflective dimension to any journey here.
Whether you’re trekking to see gorillas in their natural habitat, exploring its verdant forests, or relaxing by the lake, Rwanda offers an enriching, reflective, and unforgettable travel experience that transcends the ordinary.
Land of a thousand hills.
Rwanda JOURNEY INSPIRATION
Our travel network specialises in tailormade holidays. Below you’ll find some examples, with price guide, using destinations and camps/lodges which we think work well together. There are many combinations possible so this is just to give you some initial ideas.
When you are ready to explore options more fully, please do complete an enquiry form – we can then put you in touch directly with the relevant specialist partner team. In discussion with you, they will tailor an itinerary based around your interests and your budget.
Experience the awe-inspiring encounter with mountain gorillas in the lush jungles of the Virunga volcanoes. This short yet unforgettable adventure allows you to spend up to one hour with these majestic creatures, guided by expert rangers.
Day 1 Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the Kigali Serena Hotel. After checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring Kigali or relaxing at the hotel.
Days 2-4 Bishop’s House, Musanze, Volcanoes National Park.
After breakfast, your driver/guide will take you to Ruhengeri, the base for gorilla trekking in Parc National des Volcans. Situated 25 km from the Uganda border, Ruhengeri is a small city with about 70,000 residents, offering stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. Over the next two days, you will embark on two treks to see the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Led by experienced rangers, these treks provide an intimate and unforgettable experience with these incredible animals.
Day 5 End of Arrangements
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kigali.
Price Guide
Per person sharing: from £6,350 (based on mid season)
- This itinerary is available all year round.
- This trip starts and ends in Kigali.
Includes
- Transfers
- Accommodation as detailed
- Park fees
- Gorilla trekking permits
International Flights Our partners can book international flights for you as required.
This exciting trip combines the wildlife of Akagera National Park, central Africa’s largest protected wetland, with the unforgettable experience of trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Day 1: Kigali Serena Hotel, Kigali
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Days 2-4: Magashi Camp, Akagera National Park
This morning, depart for Akagera National Park, located in Eastern Rwanda on the border with Tanzania. Over the next three days, explore central Africa’s largest protected wetland, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. Enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and the stunning scenery of this unique park.
Days 5-7: Virunga Lodge, Volcanoes National Park
Transfer to the edge of Volcanoes National Park and check in at the beautiful Virunga Lodge for the next three nights. During your stay, you will trek to see the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to observe these magnificent creatures up close, guided by experienced rangers.
Day 8: End of Arrangements
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kigali.
Price Guide
Per person sharing: from £13,750 (based on mid season)
- This itinerary is available all year round.
- This trip starts and ends in Kigali.
Includes
- Domestic flights and transfers
- Accommodation as detailed
- Park fees
- Gorilla trekking permit
International Flights Our partners can book international flights for you as required.
Rwanda GUIDE
You’ll find a short guide to Rwanda below.
To start planning a trip to Rwanda please contact us via the Enquiry Form, by email on info@realworldconservation.org.uk or on 01692 218189.
Akagera National Park, situated in the east of Rwanda, spans 1,122 square kilometers and is Central Africa’s largest protected wetland. The park is fed by the Akagera River, creating a series of lakes, marshes, and papyrus swamps. This wetland contrasts sharply with the northern sector’s rolling grasslands, offering a classic savannah safari experience, and the lush green hills found in the west.
Biodiversity
Despite its relatively compact size, Akagera boasts a remarkably diverse landscape and a vast array of wildlife. The park is home to lion, leopard, elephant, Eastern black rhino, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, giraffe, hyena, eland, zebra, and hundreds of bird species.
Conservation and Regeneration
The story of Akagera is one of remarkable regeneration. Following the Rwandan genocide in 1994, the park’s resources were heavily depleted as returning refugees relied on the land for survival, leading to significant wildlife loss, including the extinction of black rhino and lions.
In 2010, African Parks, in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board and other stakeholders, initiated a comprehensive transformation project. This included:
- Law Enforcement: A robust anti-poaching program drastically reduced illegal activities.
- Re-introduction of Species: Eastern black rhino and lions were reintroduced to the park.
- Infrastructure Improvements: A solar-powered, predator-proof fence was installed to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Tourism and Sustainability
Since the transformation began, tourism revenue has surged by more than 1,150%, generating an annual revenue of $2.5 million and making Akagera 90% self-financing. The park’s tourism infrastructure includes three main camps: Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Akagera Game Lodge, and Magashi Camp, part of the Wilderness Safaris portfolio.
Visitor Experience
Akagera offers a unique safari experience. It may have a lower wildlife density compared to Kenya or Tanzania, but its scenic beauty and diverse habitats make it a standout destination. The park is easily accessible, just a few hours’ drive from Kigali, making it a convenient addition to any Rwandan itinerary. Combining a visit to Akagera with trekking in Volcanoes National Park provides a superb, well-rounded wildlife adventure.
By visiting Akagera, tourists play a crucial role in supporting the park’s conservation efforts and ensuring the protection of its rich biodiversity for future generations.
Lake Kivu, located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the sixth largest lake in Africa. Its scenic beauty, with rolling lawns and tropical gardens leading down to the water, makes it an ideal spot to relax after gorilla trekking.
Accessibility
Lake Kivu is just a couple of hours’ drive from both Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and Volcanoes National Park, making it easily accessible for travellers.
Since 2004, Nyungwe Forest has been protected by National Park status and is the largest swathe of montane forest in East and Central Africa. The forest is incredibly beautiful, with towering mahogany and ebony trees and a dizzying array of flora and fauna, including 13 different species of primates.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Many visitors come to Nyungwe Forest to trek through the forest in search of chimpanzees, much like gorilla trekking. This offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
Canopy Walk
The Canopy Walk, situated some 50 meters above the forest floor, is a fantastic way to experience the higher levels of the forest. If you can brave the metal bridge, it offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the forest from a unique perspective.
Volcanoes National Park is situated between the Virunga Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. Its primary claim to fame is being Africa’s first national park, gazetted in 1925 to protect mountain gorilla families from poachers.
Historical Significance
Dian Fossey, renowned for her work with gorillas, arrived in the 1960s after Rwandan independence. Her efforts to study and protect the gorillas were immortalized in the film “Gorillas in the Mist.”
Biodiversity
The park’s altitude ranges from 2,400 meters to over 4,500 meters, creating diverse zones for flora and fauna, including montane forests, marshes, grasslands, and meadows. In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is home to:
- Golden Monkeys
- Duiker
- Bushbuck
- Buffalo
- Hyena
- Occasional Elephants
There are also 178 recorded bird species, with at least 13 species and 16 subspecies endemic to the Virunga and Ruwenzori Mountains.
Activities
Visitors to Volcanoes National Park can engage in gorilla trekking, one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences. Additionally, the park offers opportunities to see golden monkeys and enjoy the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
Rwanda enjoys a temperate tropical highland climate, making it a year-round destination. The high elevation keeps temperatures cooler than most equatorial countries, averaging between 12 and 27 degrees Celsius. The eastern savannah region tends to be slightly hotter.
Climate Overview
- Temperature: Generally ranges between 12°C and 27°C.
- Rainfall:
- Spring Rains: February to June
- Autumn Rains: September to December
The consistent climate ensures that Rwanda remains warm and often wet throughout the year, with predictable rainy seasons making it easy to plan visits for various activities, including gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris.