A safari trip to Rwanda, or any type of holiday vacaton to Rwanda, might sound like a very strange choice. After all, Rwanda’s name is more loosely associated with half-remembered news reports of troubles and ‘genocide’ in the heart of Africa. Inside a relatively short span of about 3 months, between April and July 1994, an estimated 800,000 Rwandese died, systematically  butchered by a paramilitary organization that apparently enjoyed the backing of the government of the day. Many consider this one of the most savage genocides recorded in modern history.

‘WHY HOLIDAY IN RWANDA?’
Rwanda has done a remarkable job of trying to heal its wounds and turning towards the future with a surprising measure of optimism.  The government has taken measures to eliminate the labels associated with tribal identity and successfully rallied  the country  under the unifying Rwandan banner.   The country is now stable and peaceful and is trying to build a sustainable  eco-tourism industry that is worth everyone’s support.

The obvious reason is Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, some of the closest relatives to humans. Sitting within a small family group of gorillas is one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences, and a gorilla safari is a ‘must’ for serious wildlife enthusiasts. But aside from Rwanda’s gorillas, a holiday in Rwanda could include the primates in the forests of Nyungwe; the country’s magnificent scenery; Akagera National Park’s more conventional African wildlife; and the beautiful shore of Lake Kivu. Travel in Rwanda is very easy and we’ll arrange a 4WD and driver/guide for your safari.

FOR A SAFARI IN RWANDA, CONSIDER THESE ARE THE MAIN AREAS:

Volcanoes National Park
The main focus of interest for most visitors is the Volcanoes National Park, which incorporates Rwanda’s section of the Virunga Mountains. This chain of volcanoes is home to the worlds’ few remaining mountain gorillas; Rwanda has approximately half of the world’s population. With such a stunning backdrop, a gorilla safari here is the highlight of any holiday.

Nyungwe Forest National Park
Tucked away in the south-west corner of Rwanda, a visit to Nyungwe is a good reason to extend your holiday in Rwanda beyond a gorilla safari. Nyungwe’s diverse wildlife includes many species of mammals, birds, butterflies and orchids. Walkers will enjoy its hiking trails, from which several species of primate are often seen, whilst devoted chimpanzee-tracking hikes are possible for the energetic.

Akagera National Park
Named after the river which bounds it, Akagera lies at a lower altitude than Rwanda’s other parks. This natural savannah environment is reminiscent of Africa’s better-known safari reserves in Tanzania and Kenya – and the game can be good, but doesn’t quite match the best of them. That said, lakes and swamps add variety, and the birding can be excellent.

Kigali – The Capital City
Rwanda’s attractive capital, Kigali, spreads out over several hills; it’s a pleasant place to stop overnight at the start or end of a holiday if you need to. Because Kigali is in the centre of Rwanda, which is a fairly small country, traveling to anywhere from here is fairly quick. Kigali is also the place to visit the museum devoted to the genocide, and several major memorials devoted to it.

The Shores of Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu forms Rwandas’ eastern boarder, and the scenery of hillsides plunging into the lake is often stunning. Visit to relax and explore: in the north is the town of Gisenyi; Kibuye stands in the middle; and Cyangugu is furthest south.

SAFARIS IN RWANDA
Rwanda’s facilities and hotels are sometimes basic; service and food can be poor, as many staff are new to tourism. It’s not a place to drive yourself, but we have a team of capable driver/guides who can take you on a safari in your own 4WD, so you control the pace and the schedule each day.

To glimpse the heart of contemporary Africa, for some wonderful wildlife viewing and a thought-provoking holiday, a safari Rwanda can be fascinating.