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 : uk@rwandatourism.org or call 01664 823750 In the USA or Canada, contact : usa@rwandatourism.org 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

12

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

14

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.

16

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

20

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

22

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

24

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.

26

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.

28

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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