Rwanda
Rwanda is a green, undulating landscape of tea plantations, gardens, and hills. It offers visitors a distinctive journey, being home to one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, a third of Africa’s bird species, several primate species, dramatic volcanoes, and islands on the expansive Lake Kivu.
Why We Love It
Rwanda’s biggest attraction is undoubtedly trekking with the world’s largest primate, the mountain gorilla. Made famous by the film Gorillas in the Mist and the work of Dian Fossey, the Virunga Mountains in Volcanoes National Park provide a home to about half of the remaining population of gorillas, some 350. Trekking with gorillas is one of the most humbling experiences you could encounter. Being only a few hours’ drive from the capital, Kigali, it is possible to do a four-day gorilla “add-on” to a safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
If you have more time and want to expand your primate experience, head southwest to Nyungwe Forest. The largest remaining block of montane forest reserve in central Africa, Nyungwe offers 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, and over 300 bird species.
With Rwanda being well populated in rural areas, you cannot fail to immerse yourself in the local culture wherever you go as you pass through villages. The locals are extremely friendly, and craft-making, dance, and drumming play important roles in their culture. Rwanda is a refreshing country to visit, where visitors remain a relative novelty.
Good to Know
- Country: Rwanda
- Visa Requirements: No visas are required for British or North American passport holders.
- Health: Anti-malaria pills are recommended. You will need to bring your Yellow Fever certificate to show upon arrival. Visiting a travel health clinic to ensure your vaccinations are up to date is advised.
- Languages Spoken: Kinyarwanda, French, and English are the official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Currency Used: Rwandan franc & USD
- Time Zone: GMT +2
Useful Information
How to Get Around
If coming from the UK, we recommend taking a direct flight from London Heathrow via Nairobi to Kigali. From the US, you can fly via Brussels/Amsterdam to Nairobi and then onto Kigali, or via Johannesburg directly to Kigali. Alternatively, there are direct flights from Tanzania to Rwanda if doing an add-on.
How to Get There
There are flights via Amsterdam or Zurich, or direct flights to Nairobi and then connecting to Kilimanjaro (if doing the northern circuit). Alternatively, you can fly via Johannesburg.
Is It for You?
Rwanda is primarily for those interested in gorilla trekking. Due to the age restriction, it is not suitable for children under 15 years.
When is Best?
Rwanda is a year-round destination, but for gorilla trekking, it is best to visit during the dry months to make the trekking easier and avoid the mud. We suggest visiting from December to February and from June to October. However, many of the camps and lodges are open year-round, and it can be more affordable to go slightly out of season.
What Should I Combine It With?
Rwanda combines well with Uganda for experiencing gorillas in both countries. Alternatively, if you want to incorporate a safari experience, it works well with either Kenya or Tanzania. For relaxation at the end, we recommend either the Kenya or Tanzania coast.
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