Hiking and Trekking Safaris in Rwanda
Hiking and Trekking Safaris in Rwanda: While most visitors to Rwanda seek the mountain gorillas, a trek to the top of any waterfall is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. The region of a thousand hills is endowed with breathtaking waterfalls scattered throughout the country. There are no words to express how breathtaking it feels, but hiking and trekking safaris in Rwanda are the ideal way to see the natural treasures that Rwanda has to offer. Hiking tours in Rwanda are typically done in conjunction with gorilla tours, golden monkey trekking, volcano climbing, nature walks, bird viewing, and cultural excursions, all of which comprise a comprehensive safari package to the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Though Rwanda is well-known for its mountain gorillas, the land of a thousand hills has much more to offer that has yet to be explored. Regardless matter how enjoyable it is, waterfall trekking requires perseverance, guts, and stamina to reach the top of the falls. Most rivers and streams receive their water from waterfalls, which serve as a supply of water for home use and agriculture. A nature walk is an excellent way to explore waterfalls, as well as witness birds and other species such as Colubus monkeys, red tailed monkeys, black and white colobus, and blue monkeys, among others. Interestingly, each waterfall has a unique history, which adds to its appeal. Travelers are encouraged to bring their cameras with them in order to capture wonderful images for reference and memories.
Hiking to Kamiranzovu waterfalls in Nyungwe National Park.
This huge waterfall, which originates in the Kamiranzovu swamp and is located in the middle of Nyungwe Forest National Park, is one of Rwanda’s natural wonders that you must see. The Kamiranzovu waterfall is broken into two sections, one dropping at around 50 meters with a constant mist and the other forming a pool of after. The pace at which the waterfall lowers is determined on the amount of rainfall available; however it is usually quick due to the significant rainfalls experienced in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The waterfall is around 10 kilometers from the starting site, and tourists must climb through tea gardens and dense forest with treacherous and muddy terrain to get there.
To guarantee safety and a successful trip, all visitors must first attend a briefing at the park on what to do and what not to do while in the forest. Travelers should also bring raincoats, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts to deal with the unpredictable woodland weather. Hiking requires the use of porters, walking sticks, and hiking boots. Expect to see chimps, Columbus monkeys, silver monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, and red tailed monkeys among other animals when visiting Kamiranzovu waterfall. Expect to see a variety of bird species that sing wonderfully high in the trees, delighting you with unique songs. The lush foliage surrounding the waterfall is ideal for photography.
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Volcanoes National Park
Mountain gorillas, which live in the rain forest of Volcanoes National Park, are the main draw for most visitors to Rwanda from all over the world. Rwanda has the biggest number of mountain gorillas in the Virunga conservation region, making it the top location in the world for gorilla trekking. The country is second only to Uganda, which is home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
To facilitate gorilla trekking, ten gorilla families have been habituated: the Agashya group, the Susa A group, the Susa B group, the Bwengye group, the Amahoro group, the Hirwa group, the Sabyinyo group, the Kwitonda group, and the Umubano group. A single gorilla family costs $1500 USD for all nations, but the experience is well worth the money. Volcanoes National Park, located approximately two hours from Kigali International Airport, is the most accessible gorilla park.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
This is definitely another fascinating experience that you should not miss out on your Rwanda primate safari. To observe chimps, one must drive deep into Nyungwe forest national park in Rwanda’s south-western district. Surprisingly, chimp trekking costs only $90 per person and provides a life-changing experience. A trip to view chimps, like gorilla trekking, begins with a lecture on the dos and don’ts of trekking to protect the safety of both the passengers and the chimps.
Trekking can begin at any of the three welcome facilities, Uwinka, Gisakura, or Kitabi, and can take place in either the main forest or the Cyamudongo forest. The Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to about 500 chimps and 12 other species, including Columbus monkeys.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park
The canopy walk, which is also done at Nyungwe Forest National Park, rewards you with an overhead perspective of the forest, animals, attractions in adjacent settlements, and the Virunga volcanoes. Travelers hike and stroll across a 50-meter-high bridge that swings above steep and deep valleys covered in dense vegetation. Expect to witness a variety of birds, blue monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, red tailed monkeys, and black and white Colobus monkeys as you stroll through the canopy.
In conclusion, Rwanda, the nation of a thousand falls, has everything to satisfy and surpass your vacation expectations. Book a Rwanda safari to visit water falls, mountain gorillas, chimps, and the Virunga Mountains, all of which will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
