Rwanda is a landlocked East African country whose green, mountainous landscape has earned it the nickname “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Its renowned Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Bordering Congo and Uganda, the park encompasses 4,507m-tall Mt. Karisimbi and 4 other forested volcanoes. Kigali, the nation’s sprawling capital, has a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene.
- The Gorillas in the Virunga Mountains
The Rwanda gorillas in the Virunga Mountains are shared with countries like the Uganda and Democratic republic of Congo. These three countries share the few remaining gorillas in the world. People frequent Parc National Des Volcano to track these humble giants that have endured civil and world wars. People come from all over the world to spend one hour with these great apes. Looking through the eyes of these humble giants (Gorilla), gives you a feeling that triggers a question in your mind that goes “Why, why, why, not protect” they are really exhilarating. A gorilla safari in Rwanda is one of the top adventures that attracts visitors all year round and it is important to plan and book your meet up with the great apes well in advance.
- Akagera National Park
Named after the Akagera River running along its eastern boundary, Akagera National Park is warm and low-lying with undulating plains supporting a cover of dense broad leafed trees with acacia woodlands and grasslands.
The park harbours over 20 mammal species. The eastern side is wet and it is known to harbour almost the largest number of hippos is Africa. Other animals to view on the lakes on the eastern side are crocodiles, Lions, leopards and black rhinos which are present in small numbers. You can go for boat trips on Lake Ihema to view some of these animals. For birders this is another paradise on earth, the birdlife is extraordinary: not only the rarities that will have passionate birdwatchers in ecstasy but also Africa’s most inspiring concentration of big waterbirds. A visit in this park is truly rewarding.
- Nyungwe Forest
It is a montane forest that is remarkably rich in biodiversity with 75 mammal species, 120 butterflies, 275 birds and over 100 varieties of orchids. The forest is well known for its primates and chimpanzee tracking can be arranged at a short notice and at a small fee. Other primates in this forest include several other varieties of monkeys. The roads to the forest are good and with excellent rent houses and campsites to provide the necessary services to you while in the forest. A nature walk through this forest can be truly rewarding.
- Lake Kivu
Located in the Albertine rift and a part of the Great Rift Valley, Kivuis a large fresh water deposit that marks the western border with DR Congo. This lake is a tourist’s centre with fresh waters safe to swim. It has nice beaches with splendid landscapes and the sunset is usually astounding. You can spend a weekend on one of the beaches. Rubavu (also known as Gisenyi) is a waterfront town located on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great bodies of water. At only an hour away from Volcanoes National Park, Rubavu is a great way to unwind after trekking adventures. Rubavu marks the beginning of the Congo Nile Trail, which extends 227 km to Rusizi, and has plenty of biking and hiking trails to fulfill those who crave some more adventure. Rubavu is also known for its agro tourism experiences, with many tea and coffee plantations nearby.
- Congo Nile Trail
The Congo Nile Trail is a trail along Lake Kivu that extends from Rubavu and continues through Rutsiro via the Karongi, Nyamasheke districts and ends at Rusizi District, a 227 km stretch of beautiful rolling hills and clear water. The entire trek can be completed in a 10- day hike. However, the trip can be done in sections if travelers do not have the time to complete the entire trail. Trails give stunning views of the Lake Kivu coastline and offer adventurous travelers an exciting way to discover Rwanda. Biking the Congo Nile Trail can be completed in 5 days, with rich views and immersive cultural experiences along the way. This trail appeals to adventure travelers and is a great way to experience Rwanda. The trail can also be split up if visitors do not have the time to commit to the 5 day journey. However, it is an experience worth selling to those who crave an off the beaten path adventure.
- Treasure chest of Birds to be found in Rwanda
You won’t be able to believe that Rwanda is also known as one of the unique destinations for watching birds. It is home to an estimated 650 species of birds. Hence, it is one of the best places in the world to watch for avian fauna in the world. Here, you are going to watch birds like white-tailed blue flycatcher, red-faced barbet, Cinnamon bracken warblers, red-throated wrynecks, white-tailed blue flycatchers, and black-and-white manikins.
- Kigali City
Kigali is the dynamic capital at the heart of Rwanda. Peacefully nestled along picturesque hilltops, Kigali is a thriving African city immediately notable for its cleanliness, orderliness, and hospitality. Kigali is a great place to begin or end any Rwanda journey as it is conveniently located in the geographic center of the country. The city is clean and safe, with extremely welcoming people. Travelers will enjoy exploring the great cultural activities – including several award-winning museums, burgeoning music scene, and some of East Africa’s most memorable dining experiences.
Conclusion
The top ten attractions of the Rwanda Safari will not only help you rejuvenate yourself by taking a break from the stresses of life but through this adventure, you will also get the long lost peace and connect with nature the way, you always wanted.
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