A TRIP TO RWANDA WITH UNIQUE HIGHLIGHTS

Rwanda is a land of a thousand hills. Because of its beautiful hills and valleys, the country was given this name. It is among East African countries, neighboring Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. The capital city is Kigali, which is also the largest city in the country.

Since the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has made significant progress in rebuilding and reconciliation efforts. Today, the country is known for its rapid development and stability in the region.

In addition to its beautiful scenery, Rwanda is also famous for its lush forests, lakes, and volcanoes, including Volcanoes National Park, where tourists can go gorilla trekking.

Rwanda is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a resilient population that is working towards a brighter future.

Here let’s look at the highlights of my trip to Rwanda.

• Mountain gorillas

Located in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the mountain gorilla is a critically endangered species of gorilla. A beautiful example of these majestic creatures can be found in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Mountain gorillas are one of the rarest sub-species of gorillas. They are known for their 97% DNA with humans, thick fur, which helps them withstand the cold temperatures of their mountainous habitat, as well as their gentle and social nature.

Visitors to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda get a unique opportunity to embark on guided gorilla trekking experiences, where they can hike through the dense forests in search of these magnificent creatures. Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience.

Rwanda has made significant efforts in gorilla conservation, and the country has seen an increase in the mountain gorilla population in recent years, thanks to strict protection measures and sustainable tourism practices. Mountain gorillas play a vital role in Rwanda’s eco-tourism industry and are a symbol of the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable development.

• Chimpanzees.

Chimpanzees in Rwanda are mainly found in Nyungwe Forest National Park. They are an endangered species and they are closely monitored and protected by local conservation efforts. Rwanda is home to a small population of chimpanzees, making it an important habitat for their conservation.

These fascinating animals can be seen in their natural habitat through guided treks, which adhere to strict guidelines to minimize disturbance. It’s truly an incredible experience to observe these social and intelligent creatures in the Rwandan jungle so close.

Chimpanzees in Gishwati Forest, Rwanda, are part of a small and isolated population that has faced significant challenges due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Gishwati Forest was heavily degraded in the past, but conservation efforts are underway to restore and protect this important habitat for chimpanzees and other wildlife.

The chimpanzees in Gishwati Forest are closely monitored. Visiting Gishwati Forest provides a unique opportunity to see these endangered animals in a beautiful and less crowded setting compared to other popular chimpanzee trekking destinations.

• Wildlife

Rwanda is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse wildlife, despite being a small country in East Africa. The country has a wildlife park called Akagera where game drives are made.

Among the wildlife in Akagera National Park is the Big Five Animals: While Rwanda is not traditionally known as a Big Five safari destination, efforts were made to reintroduce lions, and rhinos and now the list of Big Five in Akagera is complete. These iconic species in Akagera National Park include lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, making it a great place to see a diverse range of wildlife in Rwanda.

Rwanda’s wildlife attractions offer a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. The country’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism makes it a top choice for ecotourism in Africa.

• Birds:

Rwanda is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 700 bird species recorded in the country. Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and Volcanoes National Park are all excellent birding destinations with a wide variety of bird species to spot. Rwanda is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The country’s diverse habitats ranging from wetlands and savannas to rain forests and mountains support a wide array of avian life.

Rwanda is home to several endemic and near-endemic bird species, making it a key location for conservation and bird watching. Notable birds include the Rwandan Mountain Apalis. Ruwenzori Batis, and the Grey’s Rush Warbler.

Migratory Birds: Rwanda is also a stopover for migratory birds. During certain seasons, you can observe species that travel between Europe and Africa, adding to the diversity of bird life.

Guided bird watching tours offer several benefits for enthusiasts. These tours provide the expertise of knowledgeable guides who can expertly identify various bird species and share valuable insights into their behaviors and habitats. Additionally, guided tours often include access to prime bird watching locations that might be challenging to find independently, ensuring a more rewarding and comprehensive experience.

Would you love to check out Rwanda? Gorilla Walking Safaris would gladly take you through the whole process. Gorilla Walking Safaris offers unforgettable experiences by providing guided tours through Rwanda’s lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Visitors have the opportunity to trek through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The safaris also include cultural experiences, allowing travelers to engage with local communities and learn about Rwanda’s rich heritage and conservation efforts.

In summary, Rwanda offers a rich and diverse bird watching experience, walking safaris, gorilla trekking and mountain hiking, wildlife with its unique and endemic species, migratory visitors, and expert-led tours enhancing the joy of exploration.