Welcome to Rwanda

Once upon a time, if you told someone you were going to Rwanda, they’d think you were mad. In 1994, the country – long marred by political strife and civil war – was the setting for a horrific 100-day genocide that shocked the world. For a while this was the only thing some people could think of when they heard the word “Rwanda”.

But my, how times have changed. In the aftermath of such atrocities, this small East African country has taken massive strides in its quest to rebuild. Today, Rwanda is a beacon of hope, with a promising and vibrant future that has inspired the world. It also has a thriving tourism industry, thanks to the fact that it’s one of the safest and most stable countries on the continent, boasting good infrastructure, a booming capital city, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. And, of course, mountain gorillas.

Mountain gorilla trekking is the primary attraction on a Rwanda safari, and visitors come here from all over the globe to share encounters with these critically endangered creatures. Taking place in Volcanoes National Park at the foot of the Virunga mountains in the northwest of the country, this is one of just three countries in the world where you can see the last mountain gorillas.

Thanks to Dian Fossey, the endangered mountain gorillas are well-protected. As seen in the movie Gorillas in the Mist, Fossey dedicated her life to the study and protection of these primates, and her grave can be visited on a hike up the mountain slopes. Gorilla trekking is a true bucket-list experience, and even if you only spend an hour in the company of these gentle giants, it’s a wildlife interaction that you’ll never forget.

Rwanda is an extraordinary country that plays an internationally important role in protecting the endangered mountain gorillas. But a holiday here can offer so much more than a breathtaking chance to get up-close with these magnificent primates. This scenic little country is home to other natural attractions, including Nyungwe National Park, which dates back to before the Ice Age and is one of the most ancient forests on the planet. Stretching out across 970 square kilometres of Rwanda’s south east, the park is home to stunning waterfalls, a fantastic canopy walk, 1,000 plant species, hundreds of bird species and 85 mammal species, including an incredible 13 different primates species.

A safari holiday in Rwanda also gives you the opportunity to spend time at the magnificent Lake Kivu. One of the Great African Lakes, it’s home to some of the best inland beaches in Africa, where you can go swimming and boating in the waters, or relax and just chill out on the shore.

To the east is Akagera National Park, a wildlife and wilderness area that may be in its infancy, but is already in demand with visitors who are drawn to its remarkable ecosystem which encompasses mountains, savannah, lakes and swamps. Akagera is also the only place in Rwanda where you can see the Big Five.

This incredibly beautiful country is home to thick, lush forests the colour of emeralds and sparkling lakes like sapphires. There are volcanoes, hills and mountains that gave rise to Rwanda’s nickname: “the land of a thousand hills”. From these natural wonders to the the revitalised and colourful capital city of Kigali, this is a safe, friendly and remarkably clean country that you can explore confidently.

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