Rwanda
Africa's Miracle of Renewal
Barely larger than Belgium, Rwanda is a land of mist-covered volcanoes, mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and Kigali—Africa's cleanest capital. From the 1994 genocide that killed nearly a million people in 100 days, Rwanda has engineered one of history's most astonishing rebirths. Today it's safe, spotless, innovative and fiercely proud. Ruled by kingdoms for centuries, colonised by Germany then Belgium, independent in 1962, the country is now a forward-looking republic led since 2000 by Paul Kagame.
Where to go
- Volcanoes National Park: habituated mountain gorilla families, and golden monkey tracking.
- Nyungwe Forest National Park: Ancient montane rainforest with chimpanzee tracking and 300+ bird species.
- Akagera National Park: Fully revived and Big Five restored.
- Lake Kivu for sandy beaches and safe kayaking.
When to go
Africa's Miracle of Renewal
- Dry seasons (Jun-Sep & mid-Dec-Feb): Best gorilla trekking conditions. Jun-Sep is peak.
- Wet/shoulder seasons (Oct-Nov & Mar-May): Lush scenery, fewer crowds, lower rates.
How to get there
Fly into Kigali International Airport—excellent connections via Brussels, Amsterdam, Dubai, Doha, Addis Ababa, Nairobi. Travel inside Rwanda is best with a driver-guide or you can travel by helicopter.
Rwanda offers unforgettable mountain gorilla encounters, stunning green landscapes and one of Africa's cleanest and safest travel experiences.
