Rwanda Travel Information

Rwanda, a Country With breathtaking scenery and wildlife, has emerged from its war torn, genocidal past, to become a success story. This small African nation not only enjoys the best security in the region but also had the easiest access routes for visiting the mountain gorillas.

This country offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Africa whether it be the dramatic Virunga volcanoes bordering Uganda and Congo (DRC), where Gorilla trekking is at it's best, or the forest of Nyungwe, one of the largest mountain forests in Central Africa, home to chimpanzees and large groups of Colobus monkeys. Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) is estimated to be the home of approximately 350 of the 700 endangered mountain gorillas.

The recent war, poaching and landmines have further endangered the survival of the mountain gorilla but the good news is that with Rwanda's return to stability, the fate of the gorillas has improved and gorilla trekking is prospering.

Access to (Parc National des Volcans) is from the Ruhengeri with stunning views of Gahinga, Muhabura, Karisimbi, Mikeno, Sabyinyo, and Visoke volcanoes.

Ruhengeri is a 90-minute drive from Kanombe International Airport in Kigali.

A Rwanda gorilla safari can be typically be from a 1 to 4-hour trek through the forest, with groups of 8-16 travelers led by experienced trackers who have spent their entire lives living in or close to the forest.

Travel Warnings

Crime remains relatively low, however, it is advisable to exercise common sense, for example do not walk in the streets after dark, do not carry large amounts of money and do not leave cars unsupervised in the town center.

If you are planning a gorilla trek in the Parc National des Volcans you should book with a reputable tour operator that inculdes security guards.

Visa Requirements

A visa is not required for citizens of Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, and the United States for a stays up to 90 days.

Yellow fever vacinations are required and anti-malaria drugs are recommended as malaria is common.

An example of a 4 day Gorilla Trek includes:

Day 01: Arrival at Kanombe International Airport in Kigali where you will be picked up and driven on a 2 1/2 hour drive to the Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodations

Day 02: Led by Guides and kept safe ny security guards, you enter the Parc des Volcans, where you will begin your trek. It can be expected to last from one to four hours, with about one hour of gorilla viewing. Return to the Mountain Gorillas Nest Lodge for lunch, possibly an afternoon optional tour, dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03: Here you will be taken to a different area to view another group of mountain gorillas. Return to Kigali at a hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 04: Morning optional tours in or near Kigali and back to the airport for departure.

The cost of the land package, excluding airfare and personnel expenses, can range from US $2,200 to US $2,500.

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