I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Africa many times, but I must say the memories I have of Rwanda are among the warmest. Of course you go for the gorillas…and then you discover a small country which is very proud and cosmopolitan with lots of influences from its days as a French colony – but still working to overcome the tragedy of the genocide some 20 years ago.
Ever since the book and movie about American primatologist Dian Fossey’s experiences with the mountain gorillas in Rwanda (Gorillas in the Mist), people have been fascinated by these amazing creatures which are actually the main tourist attraction in this small country.
The gorillas were a huge thrill for me. A special permit you have to buy ahead of your visit (US$795) allows you to travel with trained rangers to track and observe these amazing creatures, of which there are only 880 left in the world. Each visit lasts a morning and includes a jeep ride from your hotel, the services of two expert guides to take you into the park and to the rangers – who live in jungle villages near the gorillas and spend virtually every day in their company.
You walk along fairly even terrain for about 90 minutes to get to the area of the jungle where the gorillas are known to be on that day. The rangers “guarantee” you’ll get within seven meters, but I guess the day I was there the gorillas had left their tape measures at home and I was actually face to face with one, hot breath and all!
Some visitors are so charmed by the experience they plan multiple visits, but remember each excursion will set you back the same $795, some of which goes to the farmer whose land your are traversing.
You don’t have to be super fit – I travelled with lively retired professor from Norway who was using two canes.
However I do have a word of warning: be careful about your timing on your trip. One of my visits was during the rainy season (April and May) and it’s called the rainy season for a reason! Yes the jungle really steams and my long-anticipated beach break at the end (see below) ended up being just as soggy.
Other activities in Rwanda include visiting the beautiful Virunga Mountains and Volcano National Park, touring the capital Kilgali, and a visit to the Genocide Museum, which is very moving and a must.
For most people, a visit here is a three night extension to a visit elsewhere in Africa. Rwanda is great in combination with an East Africa Safari or a visit to Kenya and/or Uganda, and a really nice itinerary would include a few days on the beach in Zanzibar at the end to chill and reflect on your experiences.
I highly recommend Rwanda. Visitors help the country economically and ecologically, and help with the national recovery from the genocide. Plus the food – I have to say, thanks to the combination of local and French-influenced cuisine – was great!
Pat Rochon
Active Travel Manager
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