Rwanda is incredibly one magical African destination you shouldn’t miss to visit. It is a compact landlocked country with unique attractions in East Africa which makes it one of the top preferred destinations by most holidaymakers. Rwanda is a remarkable destination with only 4 pristine national parks, 750 bird species, beautiful volcanoes, a home to not only mountain gorillas but also a complete big five game destination. Here are the interesting reasons to visit Rwanda;
Mountain gorilla trekking.
Mountain gorilla trekking is among a thousand reasons why Rwanda should be a must-visit travel destination. It is an amazing destination to visit for you to see mountain gorillas while in their natural habitat. Of the 1063 mountain gorillas that still live on earth, a significant population of them are confined within the bamboo forests of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Mountain gorillas are human closest relatives and they share over 95% of their genetic DNA with human beings and a trek to see them offers such a mesmerizing wildlife encounter of a lifetime.
Mountain gorillas exist only in the 4 parks and in Rwanda, they are trekked only in Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri region. Permits for trekking mountain gorillas in Ruhengeri Rwanda cost visitors US $1500 per person. This adventure is best conducted during the drier months of the years beginning from June to September or December to February.
Chimpanzee tracking.
Rwanda is one of East Africa’s primate paradises boasting of not only as a home to mountain gorillas but also as a home to diverse primates including chimpanzees. This makes it an exceptional destination that offers thrilling chimpanzee tracking experiences. Chimp trekking experiences in Rwanda are offered best in Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. While on a trek to see chimpanzees in any of these 2 protected areas, there is also possibility to view other species of primates including red colobus monkeys, pottos, L’Hoest monkeys, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, the red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bush babies.
Canopy walk.
The first of its kind canopy walk in East Africa is done in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park. This extends about 200m long and the canopy walk is suspended about 50m from the ground, offering a distinct experience of its kind. On Nyungwe forest canopy walk, expect to come across different species of primates, birds, flora and beautiful forest canopy.
Golden monkey tracking.
Golden monkey tracking is one unique primate experience not to be missed on Rwanda holiday safari. This is provided in the country’s Volcanoes National Park/Parc National des Volcans and there exist 2 habituated golden monkey troops.
Big game viewing.
Rwanda is a complete big game and primate paradise in East Africa, offering unforgettable game viewing experience to holidaymakers. This landlocked country has Akagera National Park as its only savanna park where game drives are conducted. The park is blessed with big game species; buffaloes, rhinos, the elephants, leopards, lions plus antelope families like the roan antelopes; warthogs, the Masai giraffes, over 500 bird species.
Exploring country’s distinct history-Rwanda genocide 1994.
Rwanda isn’t only a wildlife safari destination but also an incredible place to explore unique history. Rwanda is known for its 1994 Rwanda genocide and its history can be experienced on a visit to any of the many genocide centres including Nyanza genocide centre, Murambi genocide centre, Kigali genocide site, Ntarama genocide site, Nyarubuye, Bisesero and Nyamata genocide sites.
Another historical experience not to be missed in Rwanda include Dian Fossey tomb trek. This offers in-depth learning on Dian Fossey legacy on mountain gorilla conservation and protection.
Other amazing reasons why you should visit Rwanda include cultural experience, Musanze cave exploration, birding, nature walks, volcano hiking or climbing, boat cruise, hiking through Congo Nile trail.
When to travel?
Rwanda is holidaymakers’ preferred destination because it is open all-year-round. It is known for its favorable weather and climatic conditions but it is best to visit it for a holiday during the dry season.
This is from June to September or December to February; these are most favorable for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking or chimpanzee tracking and bird watching is best done during the rainy/wet season; from March to May or October to November.
