Why you should visit Rwanda this Year 2023 : Recently I bumped into someone who said, one of their bucket list items is to explore Africa, more so East Africa. As an East African, I was intrigued, I asked this person which East African country you would like to visit, to which the person replied most probably Rwanda, but I am sure if it’s a good choice.
Needless to say I couldn’t help myself but in the moment, I kept going on and on with the many reasons one should visit Rwanda this year 2023. And in this article I will share some of those reasons with you.
Though Rwanda is rated one of the expensive destination in Africa, I can assure you it’s worth every moment. From the time you step into the country, to the time you leave, you will surely be in awe of your time in Rwanda.
Mountain Gorillas and wildlife viewing
Rwanda is one of the three countries in the East African region with a mountain gorilla habitat. The country is home currently to over 200 mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park. The huge and rare primates are some of the most sought after animals in the wildlife so you will be blessed to get a chance to see them first hand. On top of the mountain gorillas, you are also in for other primate sprees like chimpanzees, golden monkeys and many more.
Rwanda is also a wildlife hub with over 500 species of savannah wildlife most notably the big five lions, rhinos, buffaloes, elephants and leopards. Other animals are the zebras, giraffes, topis, warthogs, impalas and many others all found in the Akagera National Park.
Akagera also has a lake with hippos and crocodiles and afew other water animals. The park is also home to over 500 species of birds including shoebill stork.
Hiking the Virunga Mountains
If you are one who loves thrilling adventure or engaging activities, I am beyond sure you will love the Virunga Mountains hiking experience. Rwanda is gifted to have three virunga mountains that are Mt Karisimbi, Bisoke and Muhavura. The good news you can go at one of these mountains on a hiking experience. Depending on the mountain your are hiking, it can take you one, two, three days and from Karisimbi you can go up to 7 days but it will all be worth it. If mountains are not your thing you can hike to the Dian Fossey center as well, the way to the centre is as scenic as some of the mountain trails. Other hiking trails in the country include but not limited to Musanze caves, Mpanga eco forest park, and the Nyungwe Forest National Park trails.
Nyungwe forest National Park
Like Volcanoes National Park, this park is also a primate hub and is known for the chimpanzees among other primates. You have the chance to trek these primates any time you wish at the park. This park is quite far from the capital Kigali so it gives you an opportunity to see numerous scenery on your way to the park. At the park you get to see a number of birds over 120 species of birds, species of birds including Albertine rift valley endemics.
The other unmatchable feature at the Nyungwe Park is the canoply walk way, where you get to walk from one end of the forest to the other enjoying the beautiful scenes of the surroundings.
Other things you should look out for the Kigali city tour where you will visit the communities, the genocide memorial centers, the interesting spots in the city.
