Rwanda: A Land of Volcanoes, Gorillas, and Resilience

Cradled among the great Virunga volcanic peaks in East Africa, Rwanda is a land of emerald hills, mist-swept forests, and vibrant renewal. From the hush of ancient jungle to the buzz of a forward-looking city, this remarkable nation weaves conservation, culture, and courage into every journey.

Trekking Into the Gorillas’ Realm

Over 160 km² of rainforest, bamboo thickets, alpine vegetation, and the dramatic ridges of Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, and Gahinga form the terrain of Volcanoes National Park—Africa’s oldest national park and a sanctuary for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Here, you can have a truly unforgettable wildlife experience, gorilla trekking.

Each day, small groups—just eight visitors per gorilla family—set out with expert guides and trackers. After navigating misty forests and bamboo groves, you’ll spend an hour in quiet awe with a family of mountain gorillas, a profound encounter made even more meaningful by the park’s strict limits on visitor numbers.

Volcanoes National Park is a biodiversity haven and also home to golden monkeys, forest elephants, duikers, and over 200 bird species including many Albertine Rift endemics such as Rwenzori Turaco and francolins.

Located at the edge of Volcanoes National Park, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is a world-class conservation and research facility dedicated to the protection of mountain gorillas and their habitat. Opened in 2022, the campus builds on Dian Fossey’s pioneering legacy while creating a space where science, education, and community come together. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits that showcase the lives of gorillas and the challenges of conservation, watch researchers at work.

Back in the capital, Kigali is renowned as one of the cleanest, safest and best maintained cities in Africa and is a fascinating place to while away a day or two. Sample the exciting food scene, reflect and learn at the Kigali Genocide Memorial or admire the soaring Kigali Convention Center, a modern architectural icon and symbol of Rwanda’s optimism for the future.