RWANDA
There are just a handful of Mountain Gorillas left on the Planet. The other species, more numerous, lives in the tropical jungles of Central Africa under the broad category of Lowland Gorilla. The Mountain Gorilla has a presence of its own and can be seen in the mountains in three countries. Uganda, Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of Congo. We would recommend Rwanda. Given the turbulent past of this country it is refreshing to see how a poor country has sprung back to become a modern African nation with the Gorilla taking centre stage in its tourism. You need a certain amount of fitness to make it up the mountain for this once in a lifetime experience. Face to face with a many hundred kilo Silverback, for that is what the mature male and group leader is called, is a daunting experience. Looking into those eyes that seem to have memories of a million years one tends to forget that this gentle giant has the capacity to do serious damage with one careless swipe of its long hands. To spend an hour watching them interact with each other and us, their cousins, can only be described as an enriching experience and one to do before one gets to a stage where hard exertion becomes impossible. Book early. Gorilla permits are hard to get as the visits are strictly limited, and due to its popularity get sold out fast.
TRAVELLER INFORMATION
WHEN TO GO: In our opinion, Rwanda is a year-round Safari destination. It really comes down to your interests, where & when you want to visit and the weather. Please note that weather patterns across Africa are becoming increasingly unpredictable due to global warming.
Gorilla trekking safaris can be done throughout the year. If possible try and avoid the rainy seasons. But at an altitude of 2000m+, it can rain or be cloudy throughout the year. The most popular times are from December and February, and from June to mid-September/early October. Permits for trekking are limited and can be difficult at short notice, so you should plan well ahead. We will make all the arrangements for buying your permits.
WEATHER
- South of the equator, Rwanda’s higher altitude gives it pleasant tropical highland climate with plenty of rain.
- Temperatures vary depending on locations and altitudes. In the capital, Kigali, the average daily temperature is in the 20s(°c).
- Rwanda's main rainy season when the rain is heavy and persistent.
- Long dry season; this is considered the best time to visit
- Experiences some rain but not as heavy.
- Short dry season. Light cloud cover.
GETTING THERE
Most Safaris start from Kigali International Airport and other major attractions are within 1-5 hours from the capital. We do not book international flights however, we will suggest the very best arrival/departure options, which work with your itinerary. We would be happy to book all of your transport, flights and charters for you (within Rwanda) so that everything else is taken care of from the time you land until you depart.
VISAS
Entry requirements can change. All visitors should check with their local embassy/consulate or travel agent to verify the updated requirements and apply well in advance. If you are coming from India or most of Asia, you will require a visa. British, US citizens and most European countries do not require a visa for entry into Rwanda. Certain countries can obtain their visas on arrival. E-Visas are also available online. https://www.migration.gov.rw/ The NEW East Africa Tourist visa is available for travellers visiting Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda only. http://www.visiteastafrica.org/
VACCINATIONS
If you are travelling from anywhere infected with Yellow Fever, you must have a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. Otherwise, no other immunizations are required. Please check with your general practitioner for any precautionary other vaccinations you might wish to take.
MORE INFORMATION: http://rwandatourism.com/
TRAVELLER INFORMATION
WHEN TO GO: In our opinion, Rwanda is a year-round Safari destination. It really comes down to your interests, where & when you want to visit and the weather. Please note that weather patterns across Africa are becoming increasingly unpredictable due to global warming.
Gorilla trekking safaris can be done throughout the year. If possible try and avoid the rainy seasons. But at an altitude of 2000m+, it can rain or be cloudy throughout the year. The most popular times are from December and February, and from June to mid-September/early October. Permits for trekking are limited and can be difficult at short notice, so you should plan well ahead. We will make all the arrangements for buying your permits.
WEATHER
- South of the equator, Rwanda’s higher altitude gives it pleasant tropical highland climate with plenty of rain.
- Temperatures vary depending on locations and altitudes. In the capital, Kigali, the average daily temperature is in the 20s(°c).
- Rwanda's main rainy season when the rain is heavy and persistent.
- Long dry season; this is considered the best time to visit
- Experiences some rain but not as heavy.
- Short dry season. Light cloud cover.
GETTING THERE
Most Safaris start from Kigali International Airport and other major attractions are within 1-5 hours from the capital. We do not book international flights however, we will suggest the very best arrival/departure options, which work with your itinerary. We would be happy to book all of your transport, flights and charters for you (within Rwanda) so that everything else is taken care of from the time you land until you depart.
VISAS
Entry requirements can change. All visitors should check with their local embassy/consulate or travel agent to verify the updated requirements and apply well in advance. If you are coming from India or most of Asia, you will require a visa. British, US citizens and most European countries do not require a visa for entry into Rwanda. Certain countries can obtain their visas on arrival. E-Visas are also available online. https://www.migration.gov.rw/ The NEW East Africa Tourist visa is available for travellers visiting Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda only. http://www.visiteastafrica.org/
VACCINATIONS
If you are travelling from anywhere infected with Yellow Fever, you must have a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. Otherwise, no other immunizations are required. Please check with your general practitioner for any precautionary other vaccinations you might wish to take.
MORE INFORMATION: http://rwandatourism.com/