Lake Kivu
REMARKABLE EXPERIENCES
GORILLAS : Life Changing 6
BIRDING : Glittering Prizes 8
PRIMATES : Golden Moments 10
HISTORY : The Former Kingdom 12
HISTORY : Peace & Reconciliation 14
DANCE, MUSIC & CRAFTS : Our Culture 16
OTHER ACTIVITIES : Know No Bounds 18
REMARKABLE PLACES Volcanoes National Park 20
Nyungwe Forest National Park 22
Lake Kivu 24
Akagera National Park 26
Other places (Including Kigali) 28
REMARKABLE JOURNEYS Travel Information 30
4
REMARKABLE RWANDA
We’re not just saying it. Rwanda really is remarkable. It’s a country that offers so many
exciting experiences - and not just trekking for
mountain gorillas, for which Rwanda is so rightly
famed.
Rwanda is remarkable not just because of its wildlife, but
also due to the amazing birds, breathtaking and varied
scenery, plus its unique culture and fascinating history.
Rwanda also provides an uplifting view of Africa’s potential
future.
To help plan your remarkable journey full of life-changing
experiences, please do take a look through this booklet
that’s full of ideas.
This guide to Rwanda has been created by Rwanda Development Board. For more info see www.rwandatourism.com In the UK, contact : [email protected] or call 01664 823750 In the USA or Canada, contact : [email protected] or call 414-306-2539 or 414-241-6373
Meet the people of Rwanda
LIFE CHANGING : GORILLA TREKKING
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Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is often described as “life changing” and with good reason. With only
an estimated 880 gorillas left in the world, seeing
these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is
a truly unique experience.
Gorillas make their homes in and amongst the bamboo-
covered slopes of the Virunga Mountains in the Volcanoes
National Park in northern Rwanda. Trek to see them and
you’ll be introduced by your expert trackers and guides to
one of the fully-habituated families of mountain gorillas
and you can stay with them for an awe-inspiring hour,
often crouching just a few feet away, whilst the gorialls go
about the daily lives.
Hikes in the mountains can last anywhere from just 30
minutes to 4 hours + depending on the family allocated to
your group and their location. The journey back can take
just as long, but you are often carried along by the
euphoria you feel at having just seen the gorillas!
Expert guides give a pre-trek briefing on specific rules for
visiting the gorillas that live within an altitude of 2500 and
4000m. Porters are available to help carry backpacks and
cameras, as well as helping you with your footing along
your hike which can be hard work, but well worth it..
• Sightings are all but guaranteed.
• You have to be 15yrs of age to be allowed to trek.
• There are limited numbers of pernits available each
day, currently priced at $750
There are seven families living in the Volcanoes National
Park that are fully habituated and available for visits by the
public (whilst others are habituated for scientific research
purposes only) .
Each family consists of at least one (but sometimes as many
as four) Silverback, along with several females and a group
of youngsters. Here are the family groups :
SUSA - The largest group with 38 gorillas. They’re hardest
to trek as they tend to range high into the mountains They
have rare 5 year old twins named Byishimo and Impano.
SABINYO - With 17 members, Sabyinyo is an easily
accessible group led by the powerful silverback Guhonda.
AMAHORO - A group of 19 gorillas, led by Ubumwe. To
reach them it’s usually a fairly steep climb, but it is well
worth it!
AGASHYA - (formerly known as Group 13) A group that’s
grown to 22 members – a positive sign for conservation.
KWITONDA - 23 members led by Akarevuro, originally
habituated in DRC, so they tend to range quite far making
it a moderately difficult trek.
UMUBANO - A family of 13, who broke off from Amahoro
with leader, Charles,
HIRWA - This group has 18 members and only fairly recently
formed from former Group 13 and Sabinyo family
members. They are led by Munyinya.
Mountain Gorillas, Volcanoes NP
BIRDING : GLITTERING PRIZES
8
When it comes to birding, Rwanda is amongst Africa’s most exciting destinations - within this
relatively small and compact country, there over
1450 bird species of which 27 are Albertine Rift
endemics.
Highlights include the Red-Faced Barbet, Shoebill Stork,
Bennett’s Woodpecker, Papyrus Gonolek and the Miombo
Wren-Warbler.
There are three Important Birding Areas, all within national
parks - Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park and
Nyungwe National Park.
Rwanda’s location in the Albertine Rift makes for an ideal
and stunning landscape for bird enthusiasts. Bird-watching
in Rwanda can appeal to every level visitor – from the
absolute novice (who is visiting primarily for primates) all
the way to the most serious of birders, due to the diversity
and appeal of certain species. Birding is experienced
throughout the year, with the migrant bird season being
from December through till February.
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Best known as a haven for the mountain gorilla this
stunning park has varying habitats from bamboo forests
and open grasslands to swamp and heath. Alive with the
calls of colourful birds this vast area has 178 species of birds
with 13 species endemic to these mountains. Popular sights
are Archer’s Ground Robin, Dusky Crimsonwing, Rwenzori
Turaco and Rwenzori Double Collared Sunbird.
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK The wetlands and lakes in Akagera National Park offer an
authentic off the beaten track experience with large
numbers of water birds including the African Fish Eagle,
African Finfoot and Cormorants and the chance to see the
elusive Shoebill Stork in the northern lakes of the park.
NYUNGWE FOREST Nyungwe Forest is Rwanda’s most important bird watching
destination as it forms part of the largest continuous block
of montane forest and is home to 310 species of birds. A
vast tract of virgin forest, where vegetation is thick and the
canopy high but almost everyone who visits gets great
sightings. These include the Red-Collared Mountain
Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco, Stuhlman’s Double-collared
Sunbird, the exquisite Purple-breasted Sunbird, Kungwe
Apalis, Paradise Flycatcher and the White Headed Wood-
Hoopoe.
Variable Sunbird, Nyungwe Forest
PRIMATE VIEWING : GOLDEN MOMENTS
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As well as mountain gorillas, Rwanda is home to an array of other primates. These often have
racial or behavioural differences from elsewhere
in Africa.
GOLDEN MONKEYS Although its Gorillas that often steal the show in Volcanoes
NP, the endemic Golden Monkeys are striking primates
with their bright orange-gold fur contrasting with the green
rainforests of the Virunga Mountains. Large and well-
habituated groups mean that the quality of sightings here
is superb. Great photos and memories are to be had
visiting these playful creatures, who seem very relaxed
around humans.
CHIMPANZEES Nyungwe Forest is home to over 400 chimpanzees and a
fairly straightforward hike through the beautiful forest
often leads visitors to these fascinating creatures, where
you can might see them ‘up close and personal’.
Chimpanzee trekking can be done year-round in Nyungwe
Forest, and while it is never guaranteed that you will see
them, sightings are common and the guides here are well
skilled at tracking. You will definitely hear them long before
seeing them and as they roam in small groups. Their calls
are highly distinctive and they also drum against the tree
buttresses to communicate across the forest. Chimpanzee
sightings are a little more sporadic, but worthwhile
nonetheless. With over 95% of their genetic make-up
shared with humans these creatures make for a fascinating
wildlife experience.
BLACK & WHITE COLOBUS MONKEYS These charismatic monkeys – sometimes referred to us
Ruwenzori Colobus - take up the final place in Rwanda’s
Big-4 primate species. Nyungwe Forest is again home to
this attractive species. Because they live within sizeable
groups (one of the habituated troops has more than 200
individuals), an encounter with Colobus Monkeys in
Rwanda often exceeds sightings anywhere elsewhere in
Africa.
OTHER PRIMATES Species to be seen in Rwanda’s national parks include
Mountain / L’Hoest Monkeys, Red Tailed Monkeys, Blue
Monkeys, Owl Faced Monkeys, Dents (or Mona) Monkeys,
Grey Cheeked Mangabeys, Baboons, Vervets Monkeys,
Bushbabies and Pottos.
Golden Monkey, Virungas National Park
In the paddock at the rear is a herd of traditional long-
horned cattle, known as "Inyambo". This royal breed of
cows formed an integral part of Rwandan culture are
treated as sacred. To this day, these cows are still sung to
and groomed, but never milked or eaten.
RWESERO PALACE ART MUSEUM On the hillside opposite the colonial style palace is a
second palace, this time designed more in line with the
wishes of the King. Constructed in 1957-59, the palace hosts
an interesting array of traditional and contemporary
Rwandan paintings and structures, with many being post
genocide. Sadly, the King never took up residence here as
he died shortly before it was completed.
ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM This national museum of Rwanda is situated in Huye just an
hour south of Kigali. The hugely informative and
entertaining museum has several rooms showing exhibits
from Rwandan history and culture, representing the
country and its people through ancient times.
Displays include a full scale replica of a traditional hut, as
well as original tools, decorations, implements and modes
of transport. There’s also a display of costumes and
equipment used by the famous Intore dancers. The
museum’s reception area has a large range of traditional
handicrafts for sale.
HISTORY : THE FORMER KINGDOM
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The route between Kigali and Nyungwe hosts a number of informative cultural sites. This is
sometimes referred to as the “Cultural Corridor”.
KING’S PALACE MUSEUM This fascinating two-part museum is based in Nyanza,
88km south of Kigali. The first buildings make up the
colonial style palace built for King Mutara III Rudahigwa in
1932 and his residence until his untimely death in 1959. The
palace, also then home to the Queen Mother, contains a
host of the King’s own possessions including furniture and
ornaments. The walls of the palace chart the history of
Rwanda and its kings through the centuries.
Alongside the colonial palace is a reconstructed original
traditional palace in the style that Rwandan kings had used
up until the 20th century. This beautifully crafted
construction offers a detailed look into the daily life of
Rwanda’s monarchy and is made entirely of traditional
materials. Two further ‘huts’ have been constructed to
show how two important rituals of royal life - milk and beer
- were prepared, stored and shared.
The traditional King’s Palace
HISTORY : PEACE & RECONCILIATION
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When visiting Rwanda, It is impossible not to see and learn about the impact of the 1994 genocide.
Whilst this can be a moving experience, at the
same time it can be surprisingly uplifting as you
will see first-hand how the people of Rwanda
have learnt so much from this dark period in the
country’s recent past and are positively moving
forward together.
THE GENOCIDE MUSEUM Rwandans have formed an inspiring nation that has moved
on from the tragedy of genocide in just two decades and
have created a moving memorial to those who lost their
lives : Inaugurated on the 10th Anniversary of the genocide,
the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a must for those who visit
Rwanda, providing visitors a view into how the events of
1994 came about, how the world reacted and the actual
events of the genocide.
This permanent memorial is filled with testimonials,
documents, publications, and other material pertinent to
the heart breaking events. The powerful exhibits offer a
glimpse into the struggle and heartache that Rwanda
experienced. Upon leaving you will appreciate how far this
country has come and recognise a "Rwanda reborn."
It is located on one of the city’s many hillsides and
incorporates the tombs of over 250,000 people whose
bodies were lain to rest there. During the hundred days of
genocide, more than one million people are believed to
have lost their lives
MODERN DAY RWANDA Today, Rwanda is peaceful and the reconciliation process
has brought people together. It is a vibrant and forward -
looking country. No longer divided into three tribes,
Rwandan people are now part of a single nation, working as
one. The country has made huge leaps in terms of
improved education, health, social security and
encouraging individual entrepreneurship.
When visiting Rwanda, you may be pleasantly surprised by
little things like the cleanliness of the streets or the
standards of many of the roads…but most of all, you will
hopefully fall in love with the smiling people and the
laughter from the children.
Laughter filled local Rwandans!
DANCE, MUSIC & CRAFTS : CAPTURING OUR CULTURE
CRAFTS A distinctively Rwandan craft is Imigongo or cow dung
paintings that are produced by a local co-operative in the
village of Nyakarambi near the border with Tanzania.
Dominated by black, brown and white whirls and other
geometric shapes, these unique and earthy works can be
bought in craft markets throughout the country.
Weaving and basket making is a traditional art still used
today to make dry containers for storing food and
medicines. These are also known as peace pots and had
traditional values such as to commemorate weddings or as
a welcome gift.
Pottery is one of the oldest forms of art in Rwanda and can
still be seen in many towns today using traditional Batwa
techniques. Known for its good quality clay these pots are
still widely used for cooking and storing liquids.
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The arts play an important role in the traditions of Rwandan people. Performances range from
demonstrations of bravery and excellence, to
humorous dance styles and lyrics, to artistry
based in traditional agricultural roots.
DANCE The finest displays of Rwanda's dynamic traditional musical
and dance styles are performed by the Intore Dance
Troupes. Founded several centuries ago, the Intore, (The
Chosen Ones) who performed exclusively for the Royal
Court, were given military training and taught the
technique of jumping which forms a significant part of the
dance. Performed wearing grass wigs and clutching spears
this dance is a true spectacle of Rwanda. Live dance
performances can be seen at cultural villages, museums
and as entertainment at many lodges and hotels across
Rwanda. The Iby’ Iwacu cultural village in Musanze, and the
National Museum of Rwanda have regular professional
performances and daily dances occur at the RDB office at
Kinigi, Volcanoes NP.
MUSIC Traditional songs are often accompanied by a lulunga—a
harp-like instrument with eight strings. More celebratory
dances are backed by a drum orchestra, which typically
comprises seven to nine members who collectively produce
a hypnotic and exciting set of intertwining rhythms.
Intore Dancers
In addition to some more famous attractions, Rwanda
has a host of other activities to include in your schedule
to make the very most of your trip. Here are just a few
other options :
THE CONGO NILE TRAIL This adventurous trail winds its way along Lake Kivu,
starting in Rubavu, continuing through Rutsiro via the
Karongi and Nyamasheke districts and ends at Rusizi
District. The trail is 227 km (141 miles) of beautiful
landscapes, including rolling hills and clear waters. The
entire trek can be completed in a 10-day hike, however
there are numerous sections that can be completed
separately for those with less time on their hands.
SAFARI GAME-DRIVE Game-drives are not often associated with Rwanda, but in
Akagera National Park, Rwanda possesses a park of real
quality. In the past few years, conservation efforts have
increased to return this somewhat forgotten park back to its
former glories. It’s genuinely off the beaten track so you
can drive for miles and not see another game vehicle. It is
one of Africa’s most scenic savannahs where the vegetation
is constantly changing between tall mountains and tree
fringed lakes. See more on page 26.
OTHER ACTIVITIES : KNOW NO BOUNDS
18
TEA PLANTATIONS Tea is Rwanda’s largest export product. The fertile volcanic
soil and temperate climate is perfect for growing the plants
that create this popular drink. Tea leaves can be seen
covering the mountains – creating a stunning contrast to
the blue skies, dirt roads and sunshine. Visitors can discover
how tea is harvested, processed and even get to taste the
results. Tea plantation tours take place in a variety of
locations across Rwanda, with the major ones being around
Nyungwe, Gisovu and Gisakura.
MEETING THE PEOPLE Don’t miss out on one of the most heartwarming ‘activities’
whilst in Rwanda – simply meet and chat to local people
about their everyday lives. Rwandans are genuinely warm
and friendly people who will be just as interested to learn
about your lives as much as you are keen to hear about
theirs.
Stunning scenery
VOLCANOES NP : GATEWAY TO GORILLAS
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Volcanoes National Park, which covers 160km2 is in the north of Rwanda, is named after the chain
of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga
Mountains : Karisimbi (the highest at 4507m),
Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura.
It is world famous for its rich biodiversity and of course, its
mountain gorillas. In fact, it’s one of only three places in
the world where you may meet these majestic mammals.
But the area has much more to offer including Golden
Monkeys (see ‘Primates” on page 10), the Musanze Caves,
the Buhanga Sacred Forest, various hiking trails (including
a visit to the Dian Fossey tomb), outstanding birding, and
the bustling markets of Musanze, all within stunning
scenery.
The park is only 116 km (72miles) from Kigali, making it a
comfortable 2-hour drive on good paved roads, right up to
the park HQ in Kinigi.
The trekking in Rwanda can be less strenuous than other
countries. The bamboo forests where the gorillas live are
easier to hike in, and provide better photography
opportunities opposed to denser forests found in
elsewhere.
The revenue from the permits is allocated towards anti-
poaching efforts, local community businesses and major
conservation efforts.
BEST TIME TO VISIT The gorillas and golden monkeys can be viewed anytime of
the year, however, the more comfortable experiences are
during the dry seasons : July-September and December-
February. However, its a rainforest so there is always a
chance of rain.
PHYSICAL FITNESS You’ll need to be able to hike in a rough terrain, in any kind
of weather. But there are plenty of travellers who wouldn’t
describe themselves as hikers or adventurers who have
successfully hiked to see the gorillas. Altitude sickness is
not an issue.
WHAT TO WEAR Layers are always a good idea. Long sleeves and trousers
are recommended, as there are sometimes thistles, nettles
and thorns – so gloves are a good idea. Bring durable
hiking boots, as you will be off trail in rougher terrain.
Prepare for rain all year round and bring a backpacks, too.
WHAT TO BRING There’s no predicting how long it will take to see the gorillas
or golden monkeys, so it is best to prepare in case it takes
longer than expected. Snacks and water are essential to
keep you hydrated and your energy levels high. Cameras
and video recorders are permitted, however, keep in mind
that flash is NOT allowed around the gorillas.
Mountain Gorillas, Virungas National Park
NYUNGWE : PRIMATE & HIKING PARADISE
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Located in South West Rwanda, Nyungwe is surely one of the world’s most beautiful and
pristine mountain rainforests. It’s believed to be
one of Africa’s oldest, staying green even
through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity.
Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primates
species including a healthy population of habituated
Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus, it’s also a birder’s
paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics.
Cultural activities are also available around the forest; with
your choice of the Banda Community Village,
Cyamundongo Cultural troup, Friends of Nyungwe, Kitabi
Cultural village and the Nkombo Cultural troup all close by.
A trip to Nyungwe will be sure to satisfy your cultural and
nature experiences when visiting this amazing forest.
IGISHIGISHIGI TRAIL & CANOPY WALK Named after the giant tree ferns that line the route, this
trail combines walking, with the Canopy Walkway - an
adrenalin-charged 200m long series of steel walkways
which tower upto 70m into the forest canopy! It provides
exceptional views down and across the rainforests, giving a
chimp’s eye view of the world. It’s unique vantage point
and the sounds of the forest seem magnified and even
more impressive.
HIKES WITHIN NYUNGWE There are 13 other walking trails available in this stunning
forest ranging from two to eight hours, offering different
experiences and challenges. These include the opportunity
to seek out Black and White Colobus Monkeys (with
habituated troops over 200 strong), Chimpanzees (over 400
in the forest) and various trails to picturesque waterfalls, for
birding enthusiasts and numerous vantage points and
amazing vistas including views of Lake Kivu and even across
to neighbouring DRC and Burundi.
Black & White Colobus Monkey, Nyungwe Forest
LAKE KIVU : RELAXATION & SCENERY
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Lake Kivu is one of the Africa’s Great Lakes, surrounded by magnificent mountains and has
deep emerald green waters. The lake is dotted
with oft uninhabited islands and from both land
and water, the scenery is simply stunning.
It provides the perfect location to relax and enjoy
lakeside recreation during a tour of Rwanda. With a
surface area of some 2730 km2, Lake Kivu sits at almost
1500m above sea level. Perfectly safe to swim in, the water
has a warm temperature of 23-27o all year round. Sports
and activities include fishing, swimming, kayaking,
canoeing and boat rides.
RUBAVU / GISENYI Rubavu (also known by its former name - Gisenyi) borders
the Democratic Republic of Congo and is a haven for those
seeking a beach retreat after their adventures elsewhere in
Rwanda. Located only an hour away from Volcanoes
National Park, Rubavu is filled with exciting nightlife and
authentic Rwandan cuisine.
It’s a charming city to explore on foot, full of bustling
markets and local cuisine. There is a rewarding guided walk
into the hillside above the city on a pathway built by former
genocide prisoners. The walk provides panoramic views of
Rubavu and Lake Kivu, as well as neighbouring Goma, in
the DRC. In the background is Nyiragongo - the active
volcano that last erupted in only 2002.
Rubavu also marks the beginning of the Congo Nile Trail,
which extends 227 km to Rusizi in the South West of the
country, and has plenty of biking and hiking trails to fulfill
those who crave adventure.
Rubavu is also known for its agrotourism experiences, with
many tea and coffee plantations nearby.
KARONGI Located in the western part of Rwanda, Karongi is also
located on the shores of the Lake Kivu.
About 110km from Kigali, the road to Karongi is paved and
in good condition. Karongi is one of the most relaxing and
romantic places in Rwanda, and is an ideal place to enjoy
lakeside recreation.
Activities available include visiting the Amaharo Island and
the “from crop to cup” coffee experience. Along with
modern water sport facilities, traditional boats can be used
for exciting nature discovery tours and authentic
experiences within local Rwandan daily life.
Karongi is also on the Congo Nile Trail so there are
opportunities to hike and bike as well as to visit the Congo
Nile Divide watershed.
Lake Kivu
Akagera National Park is located in the north east of Rwanda along the border with Tanzania,
combining well with Nyungwe and the Volcanoes
NP to create a great safari circuit, as it is home to
many large plains game species as well as
species restricted to the papyrus swamps such
as the Sitatunga and the much sought-after
Shoebill Stork.
Notable plains game include elephant, buffalo, topi, zebra,
waterbuck, roan antelope and eland. Other antelope are
duiker, oribi, bohor reedbuck, klipspringer, bushbuck and
impala. Of the primates, olive baboons, vervets and the
secretive blue monkey are seen during the day, with
bushbabies often seen on night drives.
Of the larger predators only leopard, hyaena and side-
striped jackal are currently still present – but exciting
plans are underway to reintroduce lions, as well as black
rhino in 2015, which will restore Akagera’s ‘Big 5’ status.
AKAGERA : THE PAST REVIVED
Although founded in 1934, much of the park was re-
allocated as farms and in 1997 the park was reduced in size
from more than 2,500 sq km (nearly 10% of Rwanda) to its
current extent of 1,122 sq km. Since 2010, a joint venture with
African Parks has seen Akagera return to its former glories.
It is named after the Akagera River that flows along its
eastern boundary and feeds into a labyrinth of lakes of
which the largest is Lake Ihema. The forest fringed lakes,
papyrus swamps, savannah plains and rolling highlands
combine to make Akagera amongst the most scenic of
reserves anywhere in Africa.
It has exceptional levels of biodiversity and forms the
largest protected wetland in central Africa. Due to its wide
variety of habitats. Akagera is an important ornithological
site with nearly 500 bird species. The rare and elusive
shoebill shares the papyrus with other rarities such as the
exquisite papyrus gonolek and countless other water birds
that inhabit the wetlands in large numbers.
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Zebras in Akagera NP
Every corner you turn in Rwanda there is another incredible sight to behold. Just travelling the
country is rewarding enough but here just a few
other places to try :
KIGALI Located in the heart of Rwanda, Kigali is a modern, dynamic
and safe city that is well worth exploring. Home to the
country’s only international airport, Kigali is the obvious
start and end point for travellers.
Whilst Museums (including the Genocide Memorial
Museum and Camp Kigali) and culture fill the city, it is a
thoroughly modern African capital, teeming with innovative
ideas. Kigali is clean and safe, and easy to navigate. Stroll
through museums and markets during the day and
celebrate with dancing and local cuisine at night for a Kigali
experience you won’t forget!
RWANDA TRIPS : OTHER GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
CRAFT MARKETS There are numerous artisan markets around Rwanda,
offering a variety of regional crafts. Look out for Imigongo
paintings, woven peace pots and wooden carvings in
particular. Bargaining is actively encouraged!
MUSANZE CAVES Discover some natural and cultural history at Musanze
Caves. Formed over centuries of volcanic activity from the
Virungas, the 1.25 mile long cave formations are a great
place to explore. Guides explain their history from
formation to their various uses in history. Walks take
approximately one hour. Safety gear provided.
BUHANGA SACRED FOREST This small ecological forest, just a short drive from
Volcanoes NP, is a mystical place full of myth and legend.
Buhanga was once the traditional retreat of future Kings of
Rwanda. Here, they would seek solitude to contemplate
their initiation into life as the monarch. A small network of
lava cut stone paths, spectacular dragon trees and ancient
tales make this place a hidden gem. If fortunate you may
be guided by the grandson of one of the last King’s
personal servants, adding an extra magical element to your
visit.
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GEOGRAPHY
Rwanda is a landlocked republic in Equatorial Africa, situated on the Eastern rim of the Albertine Rift, a western arm of the Great Rift Valley, on the watershed between Africa’s two largest river systems: the Nile and the Congo. Much of the country’s 26,338km2 is dramatically mountainous, the highest peak being Karisimbi (4,507m) in the volcanic Virunga chain protected by the Volcanoes National Park. The largest body of water is Lake Kivu, but numerous other lakes are dotted around the country, notably Burera, Ruhondo, Muhazi and Mugasera, all of which have erratic shapes following the contours of the steep mountains that enclose them.
CLIMATE
A combination of tropical location and high altitude ensures the most of Rwanda has a temperate year-round climate. Temperatures rarely stray above 30 degrees Celsius by day or below 15 degrees at night throughout the year. The exceptions are the chilly upper slopes of the Virunga Mountains, and the hot low-lying Tanzania border area protected in Akagera Nationa Park. Throughout the country, seasonal variations in temperature are relatively insignificant. Most parts of the country receive in excess of 1,000mm of precipitation annually, with the driest months being July to September.
LANGUAGE
Rwanda’s official languages are Kinyarwanda, English and French. Kiswahili, spoken throughout East Africa, is also widely spoken throughout the country.
PASSPORT AND VISAS
A valid passport is mandatory. Visas are required by some nationalities, but they can be issued on the spot at most ports of entry. Before you travel be sure to contact the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate to obtain the latest information on visa requirements or apply online at www.migration.gov.rw
REMARKABLE JOURNEYS TRAVEL INFORMATION
MONEY
The unit of currency is the Rwandan Franc. The US dollar is the hard currency of preference, but euros and British sterling are also widely accepted. It may be impossible to exchange travellers’ cheques away from the capital. Credit cards are usually only accepted at the major hotels and airlines in Kigali. Cash advances on Visa and MasterCard are available at the counters of selected banks and hotels.
WHEN TO VISIT
Rwanda can be visited throughout the year. Gorilla tracking and other forest walks are less demanding during the drier months. The European winter is the best time for birds, as Palaearctic migrants supplement resident species..
GETTING THERE:
Rwanda is well served regionally and internationally by several airlines, including Rwandair, Kenya Airways, Brussels Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines. All international flights arrive at Kigali International Airport, 10km from central Kigali.
GETTING AROUND
Rwanda has possibly the best roads in East Africa. Most visitors who have booked through a tour company will be provided with good private vehicles, usually 4 wheel drive. All of the major centres are connected with local and luxury bus services. Air charter and helicopter services are available anywhere in the country and are well advertised.
GORILLA PERMITS
Gorilla permits are most easily arranged by a travel operator, or they can be purchased directly through Rwanda Tourism at their information office in central Kigali.
HEALTH
A certificate of yellow-fever vaccination is required. Much of Rwanda lies at too high an elevation for malaria to be a major concern, but the disease is present and prophylactic drugs are strongly recommended. It is advisable to drink bottled mineral water, which can be bought in all towns. Hospitals are located in all major towns.
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KIGALI Genocide Museum City Life
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Gorillas Golden Monkeys Musanze Caves Buhanga Sacred Forest Hiking Trails Birding
RUBAVU (GISENYI) Border with DRC Lake activities Tea tours
KARONGI (KIBUYE) Lakeside leisure Scenery Congo Nile Trail
HUYE (BUTARE) National Museum
LAKE KIVU
AKAGERA NATIONAL PARK Game-viewing Boat trips Birding
NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK Colobus monkeys Chimpanzees Birding Canopy walk Tea tours
RUSIZI
REMARKABLE EXPERIENCES REMARKABLE PLACES
MUHANGA Fair trade crafts
NGOMA
RUSUMO NYANZA King’s Palace Museum
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