Land of a Thousand Hills

A gorilla trek can range from 1 to 4 hours trekking through the forest, led by experienced trackers who have spent their entire lives living in or along the forest. Each enchanting trek is unique as you weave through overhanging vines, moss-covered Hagenia trees and giant Lobelias that thrive in the tropical climate. You may spot golden monkeys or see buffalo, bush duiker and a wide variety of bird life. But the high point, of course, one of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth, will be spending an hour with the gentle giant gorillas as they go about their daily life, feeding, playing, resting, raising their young. At the end of your visit you will understand what kept conservationist Dian Fossey living in this same forest for 18 years protecting these majestic primates.

Guided early morning walks are available to observe a fully habituated group of Golden monkeys (Cercopithecus Mitis Kandti). This monkey is a subspecies of the widespread Sykes Monkey, also known as the “Blue Monkey” and is endemic to the high altitude forests of the national park. The monkeys are playful and inquisitive and often spend their time leaping from bamboo branches or frolicking on the forest floor.

The upward climb is approximately two hours, but the view from the top is breathtaking and the beautiful crater lakes situated at the summit of the Volcano definitely makes it worth it

A visit to the tomb of Dian Fossey and the nearby gorilla cemetery is a memorable experience. There is a two – three hour climb through the forest to get to the site and then the plunge down takes between one – two hours depending on how many times you stop to admire the forest scenery and observe the abundant wildlife of the park.

A special event that happens in the park annually is Kwita Izina, the baby gorilla naming ceremony. This much celebrated event takes place every year in June.

The majority of the chimp population in Rwanda is found in the picturesque Nyungwe Forest National Park. Trekking to see our closest relatives is an amazing experience, although these groups of chimps are wide ranging and there is an approximately 40% chance of sighting the primates. Trekking in Nyungwe Forest can be challenging and hikers should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.

There are large troops of black and white colobus monkeys residing in Nyungwe Forest. These primates often travel in groups of over 300 individuals. It is possible to purchase a permit to trek these animals. Walking through a montane rainforest and being surrounded on all levels by these active and cheeky monkeys is not to be missed.

A highlight of any visit to Nyungwe is a walk on the suspended canopy walkway. This activity lasts 1-2 hours depending on your stops en route. Birding opportunities are superb, views of the expansive forest canopy are impressive, and primate species can be spotted, as well. Travelers who are afraid of heights, should avoid this activity as the walkway does gently sway and is set high in the treetops.

An extensive network of well-maintained walking trails leads you through the forest to various waterfalls and viewing points. Trails range from 1-10 kms and can be self guided or local guides can be arranged on site.

Akagera Park’s dedicated white rhino tracking team monitor the rhinos on a daily basis, noting information on their health and condition as well as maintaining their security. Guests of Karenge Bush Camp are invited to join the trackers on a morning monitoring walk, tracking the white rhino on foot across Akagera’s beautiful Kilala Plains.

The hot air balloon experience begins at 5:15 am (this time will be adjusted depending on sunrise time) with a briefing and watching the preparation of the hot air balloon for flight. Enjoy an early morning coffee and snack as the experienced pilots start to inflate the balloon - a perfect time for photo opportunities. During the flight, guests experience the serenity of a nearly silent flight and amazing views of Akagera National Park. Watch the sunrise over Lake Ihema and spot a variety of animals from the sky. The flight concludes with a champagne ceremony after landing and the presentation of a flight certificate signed by the pilots as a memory of this unforgettable day.

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund announced the dedication of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund located just outside Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Four years ago Ellen and her wife, Portia de Rossi, created The Ellen Fund and named the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund its first recipient. Ellen and Portia’s initial donation enabled the Fossey Fund to bring to life their decades-long dream project of building a permanent home in Rwanda and accelerating their science and conservation work. The Ellen Campus, which is now open to the public, is the vision of the award-winning MASS Design Group and has been named one of Africa’s 10 most anticipated architectural projects and featured on '60 Minutes.' The center is open for visitors on self-guided tours, plus private, Behind the Scenes and Sundowner tours (donation required). Ask Mandy to include a visit in your client's Rwanda tour.