Rwanda

Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is a small but incredibly diverse, secure, and clean country located in East Africa. While it may be best known for the tragic events of the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has made remarkable strides in peace-building, reconciliation, security, conservation, and economic development, making it a haven for people from all over the world.

The safety of both residents and visitors, along with initiatives to maintain cleanliness and environmental sustainability, has helped position Rwanda as a premier destination in Africa.

The country has invested in improving its infrastructure, including roads, transportation, and tourist facilities, making it easier for visitors to explore its attractions comfortably and safely.

Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, including luxury lodges, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. Many lodges and hotels boast stunning views and eco-friendly practices.

One of Rwanda's biggest draws is its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors can embark on gorilla trekking expeditions in the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, where they can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Coming face-to-face with these cousins gives you unmatched, eternal memories that you will tell others for the rest of your life!

Apart from gorillas, Rwanda is home to several primate species and wildlife encounters. The country offers treks to see chimpanzees, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, just to name a few.

Rwanda is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 703 bird species recorded across various habitats, including savannahs, forests, and wetlands.

Akagera National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, black rhinoceros, cape buffaloes, leopards, zebras, variety of antelopes, reptiles, and more than 520 bird species. It offers game drives, boat safaris, and behind-the-scenes walking tours; offering a variety of accommodations to facilitate visitors who want to stay in the park a little bit longer, from luxury tented lodges to the campsites.

This ancient rainforest in the south is a biodiversity hotspot, home to chimpanzees, other primates, and over 300 bird species. Canopy walking, waterfall trails, hiking trails, and chimpanzee tracking are popular activities you can immerse yourself in while unwinding from the busy world.

Visitors can immerse themselves in Rwanda's vibrant culture by visiting traditional villages, attending cultural performances, and participating in activities such as basket weaving and traditional dancing.

Community-based tourism initiatives allow visitors to engage with local communities, learn about their way of life, and contribute to their socio-economic development through homestays, cultural tours, and artisanal workshops.

Rwanda offers excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking, including scaling the volcanic peaks of the Virunga Mountains and hiking to scenic viewpoints. Rwanda's landscape is incredibly picturesque, characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, serene lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Visitors can explore stunning scenery throughout the country.

Lake Kivu, Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo lakes), and Mukungwa River provide opportunities for water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, water rafting, and boat tours, allowing visitors to appreciate Rwanda's natural beauty from a different perspective.