For your benefit, allow us to be straightforward, even a little blunt: if Rwanda is not on your list of potential countries to visit, then find yourself a pen and mark it down. In fact, consider putting it right up at the top. This relatively small but mighty African nation offers a collage of different experiences. Its National Parks, brilliantly preserved and immaculately maintained, are teeming with biodiversity and feature an array of wildlife. Lake Kivu, in the west of the country, never fails to astonish those who visit its shores or navigate its waters. Rwanda’s rich culture and heritage is deeply impressive, and its ability to thrive on the world stage. And its capital city, Kigali, is brimming with vibrancy, confidence and refinement. Rwanda is an incredibly rewarding journey for those wishing to immerse themselves in a unique and unspoiled landscape. 

One of the first things that comes to mind when people think of visiting Rwanda is its mountain gorillas. Made famous by the primatologist Dian Fossey, whose campaign to protect this endangered species was portrayed in the film Gorillas in the Mist, these imposing, giant yet charmingly gentle creatures live in the northwestern region of Rwanda. You can track the gorillas in their natural habitat high up in the Volcanoes National Park. This genuinely unique travel experience is surely unlike anything you’ve experienced before. While it does not come cheap, a gorilla tracking tour ensures that conservation efforts can be maintained. If you’d like time to save for a gorilla tracking trek, why not adopt a mountain gorilla in the meantime as part of WWF’s conservation efforts? Whilst the mountain gorilla may rightfully lay claim to being the most famous animal Rwanda has, there are other animals to witness when you visit this diverse country. The undeniably cute golden monkey also calls Volcanoes National Park home. Besides the impressive wildlife on display, the landscape of northwest Rwanda alone is breathtaking. Home to dense forests and biodiverse plant life, it is a playground for adventurous hikers keen to explore lush, mountainous terrain. Tip, though: bring a raincoat and sturdy clothes to withstand the rain and cold. While much of Rwanda, which lies just below the equator, is hot, its highlands can experience wet and inclement weather. 

Looking to relax and unwind after the exhilaration of coming within mere feet of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat? Then make Lake Kivu the next stop on your itinerary. Lazily paddle your way on a kayak through the tranquil waters of Rwanda’s largest lake and stay in one of the many quaint villages along its shores. The lake is enveloped by mountains and contains crystalline water. The lakeshore is adorned with sandy beaches, and the water temperature ranges from 23-27 degrees. A real highlight is a sunset kayak session, in which you can paddle close to fishermen who sing in unison as they set out for a night of fishing. Furthermore, the lake isn’t home to crocodiles or hippos, so you don’t have to anxiously keep looking over your shoulder. 

Rwanda’s culture and heritage is rich and varied. Intore dancing, the nation’s traditional form of dance, is a spectacle not to be missed when you visit Rwanda. Some lodges, hotels and museums host performances. Regular displays are also put on in the Gorilla Guardians cultural village.Museums offer other stimulating cultural attractions for visitors. You can learn about the renewal of Rwanda with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

For a taste of vibrant city life, look no further than Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. A suave and sophisticated place full of energy, Kigali’s urban centre and streets are pristine. Indeed, Rwanda’s cleanliness is a great source of pride to its people. There are some excellent, comfortable and affordable accommodations available on Air B n B, where you can find a base from which to explore this safe and friendly city’s many cafes, bars and restaurants. An example of Kigali’s continued development and progressiveness can be seen if you visit the architecturally impressive Raddison Convention Centre, home to WTTC Global Summit 2023.  

Rwanda offers tourists a safe and unforgettable experience, and it will leave you wanting more. Why not think about making it your next holiday destination right now? You can be sure a warm welcome awaits you. 

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