Rwanda - Main Attractions
Parc National des Volcans - PNV protects the Rwandan side of the Virunga volcanoes, a range of six extinct and 3 live volcanoes which border Uganda, Rwanda and DRC. With the highest peak of Karisimbi reaching 4,507m these volcanoes shelter some of the last remaining mountain gorillas of the world and are renowned for the work of the famous American primatologist Dian Fossey.
With some of the most breathtaking scenery of Africa, Parc National des Volcans now hosts a range of activities including a number of different levels of trekking through the extinct volcanoes, a visit to Dian Fossey's grave and the graves of the gorillas with which she worked, tracking the golden monkey, and of course tracking the endangered mountain gorilla.
Choice of accommodation in and around PNV is varied with the most dramatic lodge location being that of Virunga Lodge - a very comfortable eco-lodge located just outside PNV, set on a stunning hillside with breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera. Perched on a hilltop at 2,000m each banda affords dramatic views overlooking either the volcanic peaks or the lakes below whilst the bar and dining room give one the chance to sit back and relax by the warmth of the open fireplace. Gorilla Nest - this lodge located just 5 minutes drive from the park headquarters is another great option. Comfortable accommodation with electricity and running water however lacks the spectacular views and creative imagination of Virunga Lodge. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge - the newest edition to Parc National des Volcans; a luxury lodge managed by Governor's Camps in conjunction with the local community. Set on the slopes of Sabinyo Volcano with easy access to the park headquarters, log fires and private verandas this is the most luxurious lodge in the area.
Nyungwe Forest - Nyungwe Forest is the largest single tract of montane forest remaining in East or Central Africa and aside from the gorillas in PNV, is the most important tourism asset of Rwanda. Home to 86 mammal species, 280 species of bird, a variety of orchids and 13 species of primate Nyungwe is a remarkably rich centre of biodiversity.
Main activities in Nyungwe consist of a variety of walking trails through the steeply forested terrain in the hope of spotting some of the elusive chimpanzees (in the process of being habituated) or what is thought to be the largest troop of arboreal primates in the whole of Africa, the 400 strong semi habituated troop of Ruwenzori colobus!
Choice of accommodation in Nyungwe is of a limited range with the most comfortable place being the ORTPN Resthouse located near the Gisakura Tea Estate. Accommodation is based on a shared room basis however does benefit from hot water and electricity and some well cooked local food!
Once in a lifetime: Why not combine a gorilla safari in Uganda and Rwanda with the big five or a migration safari in Tanzania....
