RWANDA
Rwanda is home to the mountain gorilla made famous by the American primatologist Dian Fossey, author of "Gorillas in the Mist." While there has been an increase in the Gorilla population in recent years, they are still one of world's most endangered species and in desperate need of conservation. There are only an estimated 700 remaining mountain gorillas in the world today. Their corner of the planet is in the misty rainforest habitat of northwest Rwanda in the Parc Des Volcans, and across the boarders in southwest Uganda and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The Volcanoes National Park (Parc de Volcans) is home to an estimated population of 350 mountain gorillas. This was where Dian Fossey lived and studied the mountain gorillas for 18 years before she was murdered in 1985. She is buried near Digit, her favorite gorilla.
Tracking the magnificent mountain gorillas through the lush slopes of the Virungas is reported to be the most thrilling and moving wildlife experience to be had. This is Rwanda's main tourist attraction and permits are required. Groups are limited to 6-8 persons and a one hour time limit to spend with these gentle giants. Permit fees help to fund programs to protect the mountain gorilla and their habitat. Conservation projects and education programs in local communities adjacent to the parks are also supported with a portion of these fees.
A land of great diversity, beauty and the towering Virunga volcanoes, Rwanda is once again welcoming tourists. The country has taken great strides to recover from the 1994 genocide when over a million people were murdered and two million fled into exile. Today the memorial museum in Kilgali is one of many places designated around the country for people to reflect and remember this tragic time in Rwanda's past. The process of reconstruction and national reconciliation is transforming Rwanda into one of the most politically and economically stable countries in the region.
Flights from Nairobi arrive at Kigali International Airport daily. There are flights from Brussels and Johannesburg twice a week. Private air charters can be arranged.
In addition to the indigenous language of Kinyarwanda, you will hear much French and some English in Kigali and tourist areas.
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When to go to Rwanda
June to mid-September is the dry season which is followed by short rains that last until early December. February to May is when it is generally very rainy. The tropical location and high altitude give Rwanda a temperate climate. The volcano areas in the north are covered by rainforest and sometimes have snow at the highest peaks. Daytime temperatures average in the mid 70s with cooler weather in the higher elevations and in the evenings.
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Passport & Visa
A valid passport is required to enter Rwanda. Visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days.
For further information: U.S. State Department - Rwanda
Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Washington, D.C.
You may also contact:
Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda, 1714 New Hampshire Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20009 (202/232-2882), or the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the UN, 124 East 39th St., New York, NY 10016 (212/696-0644/45/46), or the nearest Consulate General in Chicago (708/205-1188), or Denver (303/321-2400).
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Medical Information
Before traveling to Africa, please consult with your physician. A certificate of yellow-fever immunization is required to enter Rwanda. A malaria prophylaxis is recommended. Although much of Rwanda lies at too high an elevation for malaria to be a major concern, the disease is present. For further information:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Rwanda
To minimize the transmission of human diseases to the gorillas, anyone with a cold, flu or other contagious illness will not be allowed to participate in the trek. Those wanting to have this amazing experience should be in reasonably good condition, as the climb can be a bit challenging.
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Highlights
Parc des Volcans (The Volcanoes National Park) is the protected habitat of the mountain gorillas. These old volcanoes towering almost 15,000 feet are covered with rainforests. The foothills of the Virunga Mountains are cultivated, but once you reach the national park the evergreen and bamboo forests take over. Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, the Virungas are also the only place where there is a viable population of the golden monkey.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to 13 rare primate species, 100 types of orchids and is an important ornithological site. You can see the colobus monkeys putting on a spectacular show in the upper levels of the forest canopy. The largest troop numbering more than 400 individuals was recorded here.
Ruhengeri is the base town for gorilla trekking. The volcanic lakes Bulera and Ruhondo are nearby and provide lovely areas to reflect on your trekking experiences.
Kigali is the capital city. The main shopping area is around Hotel Mille Collins which was depicted in the film "Hotel Rwanda" as the place where Paul Rusesabagina, the temporary general manager, provided sanctuary for more than 1,000 Rwandans trying to escape the Hutu extremists. Visitors touring the city should make time for the Genocide Memorial and the handicraft village.
Butare is the intellectual capital, home to the University and The National Museum which is one of Africa's best ethnographical and archaeological collections.
Click here for itinerary ideas, scheduled departures and private guides for Rwanda.
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