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Combined Primate and Wildlife Safari in Rwanda

There are few places in the world where you can experience the life-changing opportunity of seeing the majestic mountain gorilla in its natural habitat and at the same time the big Africa game – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffaloes. Rwanda is among these few places and thus making it a great chance for one to explore the big 6 species of the world.

Located in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, where the African Great Lakes region and Southeast Africa converge, Rwanda is known for its unique and breathtaking experience for those interested in primates and wildlife safaris. The country is renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly in protecting endangered species like mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. For those interested in the combined experience, below are the destinations and an overview of what to expect on a safari in Rwanda;

Volcanoes National Park

This is a national park in northwestern part of Rwanda covering a total surface area of 160 square kilometers of rain forest and five of the eight volcanoes in Virunga mountains, namely; Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo. Bordering Congo’s Virunga national park and Uganda’s Mgahinga gorilla national park, Volcanoes is one of the few destinations in the world where the endangered mountain gorillas can be encountered during gorilla trek.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking: This is the highlight of any visit to Rwanda. The park is home to around one-third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas spread within 12 families. For one to see these magnificent species, he or she should trek through the dense forest in search of the gorillas and once found, a full hour is given to him or her enjoying their daily lifestyles like playing, mating, feeding and others. Trekking through the dense forest to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is surely an unforgettable experience.

Golden Monkey Tracking: The park is also famous for its population of endangered golden monkeys. These primates are playful and beautiful, and tracking them through the bamboo forests is a delight.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe National Park is located in south western Rwanda in a town called Cyangungu near Lake Kivu and near the border with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park protects Nyungwe forest, the largest remaining montane forest in Africa and also a home to different species. Among the species to find in the forest include chimpanzees and other several primate species.

Chimpanzee Tracking: Nyungwe is one of the best places in Africa to track chimpanzees. The dense rain forest is home to over 500 chimpanzees, and the experience of watching them in the wild is both thrilling and educational.

Still in Nyungwe forest, enjoy a 200-meter-long canopy walk that provides an excellent view of different bird species and several small primate species.

Other Primates: Besides chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to a variety of other primates, including colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and vervet monkeys.

Akagera National Park

In eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera national park is the only savannah national park in Rwanda. With a total surface area of 1,122 square kilometers, Akagera is the only destination offering a more traditional African safari experience, where you can see the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). The park also has other animals like; hippos, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelopes.

Still in the park, enjoy an incredible boat safari on Lake Ihema where you will see several aquatic animals like crocodiles, hippos, and water birds up close.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Located in north-western part of Rwanda, Gishwati-Mukura national park is one of the lesser known Rwanda national parks named after Gishwati forest. The park is known for protecting different primate species like; L’Hoest’s monkeys and blue monkeys, as well as a rich variety of birds.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda for a Primate and Wildlife Safari

Rwanda can be visited any time of the year for different experiences but the best time is the dry season which is in the months of June to September. This is because the trails are less muddy thus making animals easy to spot.

Though trekking and wildlife viewing is challenging in rainy seasons, bird watching is best done in these months (March to May and then October to November.

In conclusion, a safari in Rwanda offers a blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences that are truly unique. Whether you’re tracking gorillas in the misty mountains or exploring the savannahs of Akagera, Rwanda is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Cross Border Rentals from Rwanda

Crossing borders with a rental car from Rwanda involves several steps and considerations. This process is essential to understand, especially when traveling to neighboring countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, or Burundi. Taking a Rwanda Car Rental across the borders offers the freedom to explore neighboring countries at your own pace. However, it requires advance planning, including obtaining the necessary permissions and ensuring compliance with cross-border regulations set by the rental company and the countries you plan to visit. Below is a simple explanation of the steps involved when taking a rental car across international borders from Rwanda. 

1. Understand the Rental Agreement

Before considering crossing a border with your rental car, it is crucial to review your rental agreement. Many car rental companies in Rwanda provide clear terms regarding cross-border travel. Some companies may allow cross-border travel, while others may not. Always check if your rental contract permits driving the car out of Rwanda and to the neighboring countries.

Key points to check in the rental agreement:

• Allowed countries: Some rental companies restrict travel to specific neighboring countries.
• Additional fees: Crossing borders often comes with additional fees.
• Insurance: Ensure that the car’s insurance covers cross-border travel. Some rental companies may require you to purchase additional coverage.
• Vehicle type: Certain vehicles (four-wheel drives) might be required for cross-border trips.

2. Obtain the Necessary Permits and Documents

Once you have confirmed with the rental company that cross-border travel is possible, you will need to gather several important documents and permits to ensure a smooth border crossing.

Key documents to obtain:

• International Motor Insurance (Yellow Card): The Yellow Card is an international insurance certificate that proves that the car is insured for travel across borders. It is necessary when crossing into most East African countries. You can request this from your rental company.
• Vehicle Registration Certificate: This certificate proves that the rental car is legally registered and can be used outside the country.
• Rental Agreement: Carry a copy of your rental agreement. This shows that the car is rented and provides details on its use and ownership.
• Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is a must. It is advisable to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your local driver’s license. The IDP allows you to drive in foreign countries without issues.

3. Get Cross-Border Authorization from the Rental Company

In many cases, you will need to get explicit permission from the rental company to take the car across the border. This process typically involves:

• Notifying the rental company in advance: You must inform them of your travel dates, the countries you intend to visit, and your planned route. This allows them to prepare the necessary paperwork.
• Payment of border-crossing fees: Many rental companies charge additional fees for cross-border travel. These fees may cover the cost of extra paperwork, insurance, and vehicle preparation.
• Provision of extra documentation: Depending on the destination country, the rental company may need to provide specific documents, such as a letter of authorization for border officials.

4. Preparing for the Border Crossing

Before reaching the border, make sure you have all the necessary documents, including:

• The Yellow Card insurance (International Motor Insurance)
• The car registration certificate
• Your passport and visas for the countries you are visiting
• Your driver’s license or International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Any other paperwork provided by your rental company

It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the border posts you will be crossing. Research the opening hours, busy times, and any specific requirements for the countries you are visiting.

5. At the Border Post

When you reach the border, you will need to go through several procedures to cross from Rwanda to the neighboring country. The process involves several steps that can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the traffic and the country.

Key steps at the border:

• Immigration: You will first need to go to the immigration desk to get your passport stamped. You may also be required to show your visa for the destination country (depending on your nationality).
• Customs: After immigration, you will need to go through customs, where they will inspect the car. They may ask for the car’s registration certificate, rental agreement, and any additional documents required by the destination country.
• Vehicle Check and Payment of Fees: Some countries may charge a fee for bringing a foreign car into the country. Be prepared to pay any vehicle import taxes or road taxes if applicable. In some cases, you might be required to get a temporary import permit for the vehicle.
• Insurance Check: You will need to present the Yellow Card to prove the car’s insurance coverage is valid in the destination country. If your rental company hasn’t provided the Yellow Card, you may be able to purchase temporary insurance at the border.

6. Dealing with Delays or Problems at the Border

While the border crossing process is usually straightforward, delays can occur, especially at busy border posts. Be prepared for:

• Long queues or waiting times: Border posts, especially during holidays or peak seasons, can get crowded.
• Language barriers: Some border officials may not speak English, so knowing a bit of French, Kiswahili, or the local language of the neighboring country can help.
• Possible fines or penalties: If you do not have the correct documentation or if you are caught breaking rules, you may face fines or be detained for further questioning.

7. Driving in the Neighboring Country

Once you have cleared the border, you are free to drive in the neighboring country. However, there are several things to keep in mind:

• Traffic laws may differ: Be aware of different traffic laws and driving habits in the destination country. For example, the speed limits and rules regarding overtaking may vary.
• Road conditions: Some roads in neighboring countries may not be as well-maintained as in Rwanda. Be cautious, especially if you are driving in rural areas.
• Road signs and directions: Pay attention to road signs in the local language. It may help to have a GPS or a good map.

8. Returning to Rwanda with the Rental Car

When you are ready to return to Rwanda, you will go through a similar process at the border:

• Clearance at the border: You will need to go through the customs and immigration procedures again.
• Ensure the car is in good condition: Check that the car is in the same condition as when you left Rwanda. Any damage or issues could lead to extra fees upon returning the car.
• Return the rental car: Once back in Rwanda, you can return the car to the rental company. Make sure to complete all paperwork and settle any outstanding fees, such as the cross-border charges or additional insurance.

Conclusion

Crossing borders with a rental car from Rwanda requires planning and organization. By ensuring you have the necessary documents, paying attention to your rental agreement, and adhering to the regulations of both Rwanda and the neighbouring country, you can have a smooth and enjoyable journey. Always be prepared for some delays at border crossings and familiarize yourself with the driving conditions in your destination country. With careful preparation, traveling across East Africa by car can be an enriching and memorable experience.

What to Wear For Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

If you are intending to travel to Rwanda for mountain gorilla tracking, it is very crucial to make sure that you have the right clothing to wear on the day of tracking these exceptionally beautiful Giant Apes. One of the common mistakes intending gorilla trackers do is to dress in whatever way they please, which in the end leads to disappointment when their expectations are not met and yet it was partly their mistake. When you get injured during your gorilla trek, you will even curse the country and regret traveling to the Volcanoes Park for gorilla trekking, but that is not what you wish for.

Imagine someone wearing shorts, a sleeveless top (for women), or a short sleeved shirt (for men), or a T-shirt and sandals, and expect to have a memorable experience. Before you even travel to Rwanda for gorilla tracking, keep it in mind that you are not going for a casual walk or picnic, but rather an expedition into the jungles, with uneven terrains, where there are no clear paths, where you hike through slippery paths and rocks, full of thick vegetation (thick vines and tree branches) and in a very cold environment due to the fact that the National Park is located within a high elevation. This therefore requires advance planning and dressing ‘right” but also “light”. This list helps you to choose what to wear for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

FOOTWEAR

You are advised to wear sturdy rainproof hiking boots with ample ankle support. This will help you to hike with ease. During the rainy seasons, the hiking trails tend to be slippery and muddy, and the terrain is rugged hence tourists need hiking boots that will provide enough grip.  Never will you see trekkers or the Park rangers wearing sandals or flip-flops while trekking but instead they wear rubber boots.

Also wear long thick socks, and tuck your pants into the socks before entering the Jungle to track the mountain gorillas. This prevents safari ants and other unpleasant insects from running up your legs or entering your pants, and biting you.

CLOTHING

The recommended clothing for gorilla trekking includes;

Long sleeved shirts preferably Denim shirts that will protect your arms from stinging nettles, safari ants and tree branches or grasses. The areas where the mountain gorillas live have no clear paths but have dense vegetation that is likely to scratch you during gorilla trekking. Also avoid wearing T-shirts or shirts made of stretch material which can snag on thorns, tree branches or other unpleasant plants/trees.

Long trousers/pants preferable Khaki zip-up trousers or cargo pants to protect your legs from stinging nettles, grass, tree branches or anything that is capable of scratching your legs during trekking. Much as jean trousers can also be worn, they can become heavy and uncomfortable due to the dew on the grass. This makes it difficult to move faster and unbearable during trekking/hiking.

Lightweight rain jacket/poncho with hoods is a must whether in rainy or dry season. Volcanoes National Park is located in a mountainous area (within a high elevation), hence the chances of it rainy during the dry season is also high. Alight rain jacket is preferred because you can easily fold or furled and packed in a backpack.

Hats with a wide brim and sunglasses.

These are handy for protecting your head and eyes respectively from the strong sunshine. Alternatively you can wear a Bandana to protect your hair against the leaves or twigs that may get twisted in your hair.

Sweaters. This will be necessary for the cold nights and chilly mornings where temperatures drop up to 10 celcius degrees. The coldness is even worse during the rainy seasons where the sweater, blanket and bed sheets may not even be enough and it is for this reason that hot water bottles are provided within some of the Safari Lodges.

You will also need to wear an insect repellent preferably “RID” because in the process of tracking the mountain gorillas, you will encounter some safari ants, tsetse flies and other pesky flies but of course no mosquitoes because of the high altitude of the area.

GLOVES

Wear tough gardening gloves and you will not regret your decision because during hiking, you will need to support yourself using tree branches which may have thorns, hence these gloves serve to protect your hands from the effect of the thorns. Imagine what can happen to your unprotected hands when you touch tree branches with thorns or the stinging nettles. If you know what might happen, then just wear them to avoid the unpleasant from happening.

Other extra things to carry on a gorilla safari include a backpack for carrying your camera, binoculars, insect repellant, packed lunch and drinking water that you will also need during trekking. A walking stick is also handy and hiring a porter to carry your backpack and support you during hiking will be of great help to you and the porter too because Porters are ex-poachers trying to make a decent living (so as to pay school fees for their children, pay for medical care, improve on nutrition and build permanent houses).

Mountain gorilla trekking is a once in a lifetime opportunity that can be enjoyed by wearing/dressing the right way which involves wearing long sleeved shirts, long trousers, a hat with a wide brim, rainproof hiking boots, rain jacket, gardening gloves and long socks among others.

Off the Beaten Path Destinations to Visit on Self-drive in Rwanda

Exploring Rwanda by self-drive offers a unique opportunity to venture off the beaten path and discover some lesser-known destinations that showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife. While Rwanda is renowned for its gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and the vibrant city life of Kigali, there are several hidden gems accessible by car that provide a more intimate and authentic Rwandan experience. From serene lakeside retreats to remote villages nestled in the hills, here are some off-the-beaten-path destinations in Rwanda that are perfect for adventurous travelers seeking to escape the crowds and delve deeper into the heart of this captivating country.

Lake Kivu

While Lake Kivu is one of Rwanda’s major attractions, its northern shores offer a quieter and less touristy experience compared to the bustling towns of Gisenyi and Kibuye. Travelers can embark on a scenic drive along the lakeshore, stopping at charming fishing villages such as Rubavu and Karongi. Here, you can interact with local fishermen, sample fresh seafood, and take in stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. For a peaceful retreat, consider staying at one of the eco-lodges or guesthouses tucked away along the shoreline, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque setting. 

Nyungwe Forest National Park

While Nyungwe is well-known for its chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk, there are several off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had within this vast rain forest. One such destination is the remote Gisakura Tea Estate, located on the outskirts of the park.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea plantation, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed Rwandan tea. Additionally, the nearby Cyamudongo Forest offers a quieter alternative to Nyungwe, where you can explore pristine wilderness, spot endemic bird species, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Rwanda’s southern highlands. 

Akagera National Park

While not as famous as Volcanoes or Nyungwe, Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s largest protected area and offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Situated in the east of the country along the border with Tanzania, Akagera is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and lions. The park’s network of dirt roads is perfect for self-drive safaris, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and discover hidden corners of this wild and untamed landscape. For a unique experience, consider camping under the stars at one of the park’s designated campsites, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush. 

Musanze Caves

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Musanze, the Musanze Caves offer a fascinating underground adventure. These ancient lava tubes, formed by volcanic activity, stretch for miles beneath the earth’s surface. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours, marvelling at the otherworldly rock formations and learning about the geological history of the region. 

Rubavu Hot Springs

For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, head to the natural hot springs near Rubavu (formerly Gisenyi). These thermal springs, nestled in the lush hills overlooking Lake Kivu, are said to have healing properties due to their mineral-rich waters. After a long day of exploring, unwind in the warm pools and soak up the tranquil surroundings. 

Rwanda’s Eastern Province

While most travellers focus on the attractions in the north and west of Rwanda, the Eastern Province offers a wealth of off-the-beaten-path destinations waiting to be explored. From the tranquil shores of Lake Muhazi to the rugged beauty of the Mutara Conservation Area, this region is perfect for intrepid travelers seeking adventure off the tourist trail. One highlight is the remote town of Rwamagana, known for its vibrant markets, traditional handicrafts, and warm hospitality. Visitors can wander through the bustling streets, interact with locals, and sample authentic Rwandan cuisine at local eateries serving dishes such as brochettes (grilled skewers) and igisafuliya (fried plantains). 

Rwanda’s Southern Province

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring Rwanda’s Southern Province, where you’ll find a diverse array of landscapes ranging from lush green hills to arid savannah plains. One hidden gem is the town of Nyanza, located in the heart of the province and steeped in history and culture. Here, you can visit the King’s Palace Museum, which offers insights into Rwanda’s royal heritage and traditional way of life. Nearby, the ancient forest of Nyungwe Nziza offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and cultural encounters with local communities. Additionally, the picturesque town of Huye (formerly Butare) is home to the National Museum of Rwanda, where you can learn about the country’s history, art, and culture through exhibits and artifacts.

In conclusion, Rwanda’s off-the-beaten-path destinations accessible with a rental car offer a wealth of unique experiences for adventurous travellers looking to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. From the serene shores of Lake Kivu to the remote wilderness of Akagera National Park, there are endless opportunities to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful and diverse country. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, or simply a chance to escape the crowds and connect with nature, Rwanda’s lesser-known destinations are sure to leave a lasting impression and create memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Why Rwanda Should be Your Next Safari Destination in 2024?

Are you planning to visit Africa for your first time? OR Is it your second-time to visit Africa and you are wondering about the best safari destination to visit? Rwanda should be your next safari destination to visit in 2024. Rwanda is a small country in the East African region that is popularly known for the Rwanda genocide, a bad incident that occurred between 07th April and 15th July 1994 during the Rwandan Civil War.

During the period of just 100 days, about 800,000 people were killed. These were largely members of the Tutsi minority ethnic group, as well as some moderate Hutu and Twa. These people were killed by armed Hutu militias. Today, when you visit Rwanda with or without tour operator you cannot miss to visit some of the genocide memorial sites and other historical places that showcase the remains of this beautiful country.

Though this incident happened twenty years ago, the country has greatly recovered thanks to the current government of Rwanda. The current regime has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap that was set by colonial masters to classify Rwandan people into tribes. Today the Rwandan people are from one tribe and when you arrive in Kigali you will never hear the mentioning of tribes. Rather all nationals of the country are referred to as Rwandans. “We are all Rwandese” is a campaign that was adopted during the reconciliation meetings after the 1994 genocide. With this great campaign in the country, it has brought back again the strong love of each other in the country. Rwanda has seriously focused on the development of the country and by 2040, the country is expected to be second world country.

Therefore, today Rwanda is known to be among those countries in the world with the smart city “Kigali” and when you land at Kigali International Airport and get driven to your hotel in the city you will appreciate the beauty and cleanliness of Kigali. Keeping the environment clean is the number one practice and today Kigali is the cleanest city in Africa.

Therefore, with that in mind the country has also attracted many international hotel chains in Kigali city as well as Rwandan safari parks. With this practice Rwanda has been rebranded as a new luxury destination in the region.

With the new hotel developments in the city and international conference facilities like Kigali Arena and Radison Blu Conference Center, today the country can host many international business conferences and conventions. The recent big event was the CHOGM 2022 that was held in Kigali city and was attended by the 59 heads of states of Common Wealth Nations as well as other officials.

More so before I forget when you are looking for the suitable airlines to visit Rwanda, there are various airlines’ companies offering very competitive flights to the country and head by the home carrier “Rwandair”. If you are traveling from Europe, there is a direct flight to Kigali from London. Rwandair launched this inaugural flight last year and it offers very affordable and flexible direct flight from UK to Rwanda.

Travelers who have taken advantage of the direct flight have made short gorilla treks within a few days and again fly back to Europe.

Other airlines that fly to Rwanda include the Kenya Airways (KQ), Ethiopian Airlines (ET), KLM (KL), Qatar Airways (QR), Brussels Airlines (SN), Turkish Airlines (TK) among others.

Even though Rwanda is a small country it has got several interesting safari destinations that one would wish to visit. First and fore most, for every person visiting Rwanda, Kigali city acts as the face image of the country. Upon reaching Kigali, you may think you have covered the whole country due to the beauty and the interesting environment of the city. Therefore, among the cities to explore in Rwanda are as below:

Kigali

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda, roughly in the center of the country. It sprawls across numerous hills, ridges and valleys, and has a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. The Kigali Genocide Memorial documents the 1994 mass killings in Rwanda, associated with the country’s civil war. The city’s Caplaki Crafts Village has stalls selling traditional handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven baskets.

While in Kigali you will explore other historical land marks like the Inema Arts Centre, Niyo Art Gallery, Kandt House Museum, the Presidents Palace, the well-designed local markets like Kimironko market and the Nyamirambo women’s center. You can also take a visit or an overnight stay at the Mille Collines Hotel populary known for its history during the genocide that was featured in the “Hotel Rwanda” movie.

With the new image of Rwanda, Kigali city has attracted international hotel chains and hence improved accommodation facilities for tourists in Kigali often used before and after tours in Rwanda. With variety of hotels in Kigali it is now much easier to start and end your trip in Kigali. Some of the short excursions from Kigali include the gorilla tour in the Volcanoes National Park or the game viewing safari in Akagera National Park.

With the so many endless lists of the hotels in Kigali a few are mentioned here for your own information to easily identify some of them that you can stay while on your tour in Rwanda. For the luxury and mid-range travelers you can think of the Haven Retreat, Marriott Hotel, Radison Blu Hotel, Serena Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton, Ubumwe Grand Hotel, Onomo Hotel, Mille Collines Hotel, Grand Legacy, Miror Hotel among others respectively.

How is the travel pattern in the Kigali city? While in this city traveling is easy as there is local means of transport by buses and if you want to connect to your hotel easily contact the hotel to send you the small vehicle. If you want to discover by your own just after getting out the airport you will find so many airport taxes to drop you to the hotel at a relatively friendly cost.

Also, if you are in the city for quite longer days, you can rent a vehicle from one of the car rental agencies found in Kigali and they always offer new model jeeps and at very friendly price cost. The vehicles offered are unlimited mileage and you can explore the city and the other nearby places without any limit from the service provider.

Musanze

From my research I can say this is most loved and most visited city in Rwanda. Reason being it is where the gorilla palace “Volcanoes National Park found in the town called Kinigi. Musanze formerly known as the Ruhengeri province, it is big city and from here you can be busy for any period of time you would wish to stay here.

From this city you will get involved in the other conservation work from the Dian Fossey Museum and the Dian Fossey Campus offering the interesting information about the mountain gorillas. After experiencing the conservation of the mountain gorillas, it is much suitable now to enter into the mist for the gorilla trekking safari experience.

Today the gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park has got 3 selling strategies. For the luxury travelers, Rwanda is the place to go gorilla trekking and with the new developed luxury eco-friendly lodges and camps we are ready to serve you. Among the luxury eco-friendly lodges and camps include the One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge, Virunga Lodge and the Bishops’ House Lodge among others.

Thereafter, even though Rwanda has rebranded as new luxury gorilla safari destination still mid-range travelers do visit the country and doing gorilla safaris in the mist and staying at mid-range lodges like Five Volcanoes Boutique Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Lebambou Gorilla Lodge among others.

Inclusion there are so many other cities to visit and that is Gisenyi, Kibuye and Butare if you happen to having more time in Rwanda.

Qualities of a Good Rwanda Car Rental Service

When it comes to renting a car in Rwanda, choosing a reliable and reputable car rental service is crucial. Whether you are a tourist exploring the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda or a local in need of transportation, a good car rental service can make your experience hassle-free and enjoyable. In this article, we will discuss the qualities of a good Rwanda car rental service to help you make an informed decision.

Wide Range of Vehicle Options:

A good car rental service in Rwanda should offer a wide range of vehicle options to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of their customers. Whether you need a compact car for city driving, an SUV for off-road adventures, or a luxury vehicle for a special occasion, a reliable car rental service will have a diverse fleet to choose from.

Well-Maintained Vehicles:

One of the most important qualities of a good car rental service is the condition of their vehicles. The cars should be well-maintained, clean, and in good working order. Regular servicing and maintenance ensure that you have a safe and comfortable driving experience during your rental period. Additionally, the rental service should conduct thorough inspections and provide necessary documents like insurance and registration for each vehicle.

Transparent Pricing:

Transparency in pricing is another essential quality of a good car rental service. The rental company should provide clear and detailed information about their pricing structure, including rental rates, additional fees, and any conditions or restrictions that may apply. Hidden charges and surprises at the time of billing can lead to a negative customer experience, so a reputable rental service will ensure that all pricing information is easily accessible and communicated upfront.

Excellent Customer Service:

Customer service is a key aspect of any business, and car rental services are no exception. A good car rental service will have a friendly and knowledgeable customer support team that is readily available to assist you with your inquiries, bookings, and any issues that may arise during your rental period. Prompt responses, clear communication, and a willingness to go the extra mile for customer satisfaction are signs of a reliable and customer-centric car rental service.

Flexible Rental Terms:

Different customers have different needs when it comes to car rentals. A good car rental service understands this and offers flexible rental terms to accommodate various requirements. Whether you need a car for a few hours, a day, a week, or longer, a reputable rental service will have options to suit your specific needs. They should also provide convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, allowing you to access their services with ease.

Local Knowledge and Support:

Rwanda is a country known for its unique attractions and diverse road conditions. A good car rental service in Rwanda should have in-depth knowledge of the local areas, road networks, and driving regulations. They should be able to provide you with useful tips and recommendations for your travel plans. Furthermore, in case of any emergencies or breakdowns, a reliable car rental service will offer 24/7 roadside assistance and support to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

In conclusion, when choosing a car rental service in Rwanda, it is important to consider the qualities mentioned above. A good car rental service will offer a wide range of well-maintained vehicles, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, flexible rental terms, and local knowledge and support. By selecting a reliable car rental service, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable experience during your time in Rwanda, making your journey all the more memorable

Go Wild on a Safari in Rwanda

This Rwanda safari will take you to Volcanoes National Park as well as Akagera National Park. Volcanoes National Park is the setting for the famous ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ a movie about Dian Fossey’s work in conservation of gorillas. Rwanda is one of three African countries where mountain gorillas can be found. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is something everyone should undertake at least once in their lives. Also, gorilla safari in Rwanda is so much flexible to tourists whether on short or long stay in Rwanda. It is only in Rwanda you can take a very suitable and flexible 01-day gorilla trek excursion.

Rwanda has 12 gorilla families available for gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking starts with a briefing from the ranger guides at the park headquarters where you join all the people looking to do a gorilla trek. After this experience you are allocated a gorilla family to trek and a ranger guide to lead you. Some of the families are near the briefing area and other groups require driving to the trail head from where you enter the park.

Regardless of the gorilla group allocated to you, you will all be able to sight the gorillas which are often found feeding and the little ones playing.

It has a lot to offer in terms of sights and activities. You can combine gorilla trekking with a few other activities for diversity and excitement. Visitors to the Volcanoes National Park can also undertake golden monkey trekking, volcano climbing, and hiking, Rwanda birding safaris, nature walks, Musanze cave explorations, among others.

After all is done embark on the big five wildlife safari adventure in Akagera National Park. The journey to the park takes about 04 hours 30 minutes depending on the stopovers along the way. On arrival at the park, your driver will clear with the rangers at the gate and proceed to the visitor centre for briefing after which you proceed to the hotel for check in or a game drive depending on your interest.

Depending on your interest in animal viewing, you will decide how much time to spend on a game drive in the park. Arise early and leave after breakfast for a game drive in Akagera national park. The game drive on this wildlife tour will be in our custom-made safari land cruiser that will allow you to have amazing view of the wildlife as your driver guide takes you through different tracks.

Look out for some of the big mammals like Elephants, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Topi, Zebras, and Impala. In the recent past they re-introduced Lions and Rhinos in the park but these are often difficult to sight but it could be your lucky day. The park is a varied habitat for wildlife and a birders haven with over 500 species in the park. The game drive will last about 6 hours or more depending on your interests.

A boat safari is a relaxing yet rewarding way to view wildlife. It is an even more rewarding experience when on the Lake. Lake Ihema is the second largest Lake in Rwanda known for its abundant hippo population and crocodile dotted shores.

The boat safari on Lake Ihema offers the opportunity to take up-close photos of these animals. As other animals come to the Lake for a drink or bath, you can take a look at those that you may have missed while out on a game drive in the wild.