Why You Should Visit Rwanda

 Easy Accessibility

Flying to Rwanda is easier than you might think. Even though it’s surrounded by countries like Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which might seem difficult to reach, Rwanda is actually quite accessible. You can fly there directly from almost anywhere on Earth. Plus, Rwanda has its own airline called Rwanda Air, which links it to most big cities in Africa

The Majestic Mountain Gorillas

Rwanda is home to a remarkable population of mountain gorillas. These incredible creatures live in Volcanoes National Park, situated in the far north-west of the country. It’s an amazing experience to see them up close. Although visiting them is carefully managed, tourists have the chance to see these majestic animals. As of 2015, there are 10 gorilla groups that tourists can visit, with 80 passes available each day. Access to see them is carefully managed, but tourists have the opportunity to glimpse these . It’s an unforgettable experience.

Beyond Gorillas: Exploring the Volcanoes

Volcanoes National Park isn’t just about gorillas. It encompasses five of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga Mountains. Mount Karisimbi, the tallest of these volcanoes, reaches an impressive height of 14,787 feet (4,507 meters). Despite its height, it’s not an active volcano and can be climbed. The hike to the summit takes two days and is described as challenging but rewarding.

Encounter with the Lions

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s haven for wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo, and leopard. Situated in the eastern part of the country, the park was heavily affected by poaching and hunting in the past. However, efforts to rehabilitate it have been underway since 2009. South African lions were introduced in 2015, and the park recently welcomed 20 black rhinos, signaling a positive step towards its recovery.

Nyungwe Forest: Where Nature Thrives

Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwest of Rwanda, is a prime example of Africa’s raw beauty. This dense jungle is home to chimpanzees swinging through the trees and over 300 species of birds. While it remains remote and undeveloped, tourists can still explore its wonders.

Overcoming Dark Times

Rwanda has faced dark times, notably the Rwandan Genocide of 1994, during which up to one million Tutsi people were massacred. However, the country has made significant progress since then. While the genocide remains a somber part of Rwanda’s history, the country has moved forward. Life expectancy has increased, reflecting the nation’s resilience and determination to overcome past tragedies.

Safety in Rwanda

Travelers can explore Rwanda with reasonable confidence as the country is relatively safe. While standard precautions should be taken, such as ensuring drinking water safety and personal security, Rwanda is generally considered safe for visitors.

Discovering Kigali

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s urban life. Situated in the heart of Rwanda, Kigali boasts a population of over one million people. Despite its size, the city retains its charm, with lively restaurant scenes in districts like Kacyiru and Kiyovu. Visitors can also enjoy luxury accommodations such as the Serena Hotel, which offers five-star comfort and a relaxing courtyard swimming pool.

Embracing Lake Kivu

Despite being landlocked, Rwanda has its own piece of shoreline on Lake Kivu, which forms part of the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While Lake Kivu may be smaller compared to other African Great Lakes, it offers a tranquil retreat for travelers. Towns like Gisenyi, also known as Rubavu, provide picturesque settings with resort hotels along the water’s edge, perfect for enjoying breathtaking sunsets.