Rwanda
Witness one of the world’s most influential and awe-inspiring creatures in Rwanda’s acclaimed national park, Parc des Volcans, on a high-energy gorilla trekking safari.
During the specialized African safari tour, visitors can hike up one of the six Virunga Volcanoes to come in contact with the giant mountain gorillas of Rwanda. The lush terrain provides an enchanting atmosphere for gorilla trekking, where guests will pass through bamboo forests and rainforests searching for this noble creature. While traveling up the slopes of Parc des Volcans, travelers on a Rwanda safari tour can witness a variety of other primate species and an abundance of birds.
- Witness hundreds of bird species in the Albertine Rift or discover Rwanda’s history and culture at the National Museum.
- Gain a unique cultural insight at the Iby’ Iwacu village in Musanze or observe baboons, colobus, and red-tailed monkeys on a nature hike.
- Climb the Virunga Mountains on a guided nature walk or embark on a gorilla trekking safari in the Parc National des Volcans.
OVERVIEW
Climate: Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate. The mountainous west is generally cooler than the lower-lying east. The average temperature is between 57°F & 77°F with little variation throughout the year. The rainy seasons are February to June & September to December.
Credit Cards: Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of tourist areas. Visa & Mastercard are the most readily accepted. As international ATMs are scarce, it is advisable to travel with US dollars in small bills (printed after the year 2006).
Currency: Rwandan Franc, however, US dollars are widely used. Carry sufficient funds in cash to pay for tips, shopping, activities & meals/snacks outside of hotels. Bring a mix of small & large denominations which are newer than 2006.
Geography: Rwanda is a landlocked country located in central Africa and is comparable in size to the state of Maryland. Mountains dominate central & western Rwanda. The Virunga Mountains volcano chain and the Parc National Des Volcans are home to some of the best gorilla trekking in Africa.
Languages: English, French, Kinyarwanda & Swahili.
Medical: A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required. Malaria Pills are highly recommended for travel. Please check with your physician as to proper dosage if necessary.
Packing: For trekking activities, be sure to have a pair of sturdy/worn-in hiking boots, long pants & long socks in quick-dry materials, a raincoat or poncho with hood, and waterproof bags to keep your camera & other items dry in your daypack.
Visas: U.S. Citizens require a holiday visa to enter Rwanda. Passports must have at least 2 blank pages per country visited AND must be valid for at least 6 months after departure from the last country visited. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required.
