Rwanda

East Africa’s mountainous paradise, Rwanda, is a haven for travellers that are avid wildlife lovers. The country has earned the nickname ‘land of a thousand hills’ due its mountainous landscape and its renowned Volcanoes National Park,

which is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park is the most visited park in the country, which is no surprise as it is home to 3 extinct and 6 active volcanoes, and you will experience the best tracking safari to see mountain gorillas. The shores of Lake Kivu can enjoyed with beach sports, kayaking, fishing or boat tours.

Rwanda is also a haven for coffee and tea as it is the country’s biggest export. Tea leaves create a beautiful contrast with blue skies and never-ending sunshine as they adorn mountain tops. Tea plantation tours can be enjoyed in a variety of locations across Rwanda, including at Sorwathe Guesthouse and Tea Tours.

Recommended accommodation includes the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge located on the foothills of the Mount Sabinyo neighbouring the Volcanoes National Park, with prices starting from $227 per night and the Gorillas Lake Kivu Hotel in Gisenyi overlooking Lake Kivu, with pricing starting from $92 per night.

Visas are required from certain foreign nationals at a cost of $30. Visit the Rwanda Tourism website for up to date visa information. Citizens of the DRC and Mauritius may visit Rwanda without a visa for a period of up to 90 days. Citizens of the East African Community, namely Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will be issued with a 6 months visitor pass (renewable) upon arrival with no fee. South African citizens will be issued with a entry visa valid for a period up to 30 days and pay for a visa ($30) upon arrival without prior application.