Discover Rwanda
Rwanda is a small, landlocked nation of 26,338 square kilometres — roughly the size of Maryland — known as 'The Land of a Thousand Hills' for its steep terrain averaging 1,598 metres above sea level. Despite its compact size, Rwanda protects approximately 604 mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park (part of the global population of 1,063), hosts over 700 bird species, and has undergone a remarkable conservation transformation. Akagera National Park successfully reintroduced lions in 2015 and black rhino in 2017, restoring the Big Five to Rwanda for the first time in over a decade.
When to Go
June to September long dry season is ideal for gorilla trekking with drier trails. December to February short dry season is equally good with warmer weather. Gorilla permits ($1,500 USD — the highest in Africa) should be booked well in advance.
What You'll See
Approximately 604 mountain gorillas in 12 habituated groups in Volcanoes NP, habituated chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest (around 500 individuals), recently reintroduced lions (around 40) and 25 black rhino in Akagera, golden monkeys (an Albertine Rift endemic), over 700 bird species across the country, and 75 mammal species in Akagera including elephant, giraffe, and hippo.
Your Journey Begins
Kigali International Airport (KGL) receives direct flights from Nairobi (1.5 hours), Addis Ababa, Brussels (RwandAir), Amsterdam (KLM), Dubai, and London Gatwick (RwandAir direct, 10 hours). Volcanoes NP is 2.5 hours by road from Kigali (110 km). Nyungwe Forest is 5 hours from Kigali (225 km). Akagera NP is 2.5 hours east of Kigali (120 km). Most nationalities obtain a visa on arrival ($30) or an East Africa Tourist Visa ($100).
Destinations in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park
Africa's first national park — 604 mountain gorillas across the Virunga volcanoes where Dian Fossey made history.
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Nyungwe Forest National Park
Africa's oldest montane rainforest — 13 primates, canopy walkways, and 400-strong colobus troops.
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Akagera National Park
Africa's greatest conservation comeback — Big Five restored, poaching down 96%, managed by African Parks.
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