Highlights and Parks

For many travelers, the tracking of gorillas ranks among one of the most exhilarating highlights of their trip to Africa.

Mountain Gorillas are one of the world’s most endangered species of apes. It is estimated that there are currently less than 900 individuals left throughout the world. Nearly half of these can be found in Uganda, but significant populations can also be found in Democratic Republic of Congo and the Parc National de Volcans in Rwanda.

Nyungwe Forest National Park enjoys some of the richest biodiversity in all of Africa. Often compared with Kibale Forest in Uganda, Nyungwe is one of the oldest green expanses in the continent and includes a very wide variety of rare and endangered species including troops of chimpanzees and other primates.

Comprising five volcanoes, the Virungas form the border between Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo and are one of the most beautiful sights in Africa. In addition to the chance to see the mountain gorillas, visitors can also have a chance encounter with a troop of rare golden monkeys on one of many climbs or treks around the Park.

Sprawling over several hills and verdant valleys, the flowering tree-lined streets and boulevards of this modern city are much calmer than those of neighbouring Kampala (Uganda) and Nairobi (Kenya). There is an excellent selection of cafes and restaurants, many with wonderful views over the broad valleys of the city. A wide range of traditional souvenir shops make good stop in between you sightseeing in the city.

This medium-sized town on the border with D.R. Congo has a special charm which lures a good mix of Rwandans and expats to its surprisingly numerous beaches. The Lake Kivu frontage is lined with landscapes villas, luxurious hotels and private clubs set in plenty of tropical foliage.

Sights and activities include a visit to the Rubona peninsula, the public beach or a nearby tea factory.

The steep surrounding hills fall into deep green waters amid nearby islands making this an extremely picturesque town midway down the coast of Lake Kivu. A few small sandy spots invite you to take a refreshing dip or launch a kayak to explore the indented shoreline.

The gruesome chapter of history of this town is explained in the Genocide Memorial Church near the centre.

Akagera National Park covers 2500 km² of savannah west of the Kagera River, in the north-east of Rwanda. The park has a variety of wildlife and is a habitat for over 500 different species of birds. Herds of elephant and buffalo emerge from the woodland to drink at the lakes, while you might stumble across a leopard, a spotted hyena or even a lion. Giraffe and zebra haunt the savannah, and more than a dozen types of antelope inhabit the park.