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shivaniuppalwar-blog · 5 years

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HOW TO SAVE MONEY & VISIT RWANDA ON A BUDGET

Travel blog

In this guest post, Alicia Erickson offers some handy tips on how you can visit Rwanda on a budget! She spent some time living there and, today, is sharing her tips on the country (one I haven’t got to yet!). She’s a freelance writer so I don’t have a blog to link too! Here are her tips:

Rwanda, a tiny nation nestled between Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the center of the African continent, is filled to the brim with rainforests, wildlife, lakes, and volcanoes. It is aptly nicknamed “the land of a thousand hills.”

Rwanda also happens to be one of the safest and easiest nations to navigate in East Africa. Sure, this nation might have a bit of a reputation that proceeds itself. But the genocide that ravaged the country ended more than 25 years ago. Over the past two decades, innovation, environmental sustainability, and women’s rights have been at the forefront of Rwanda’s rapid development.

You might wonder, is Rwanda budget-friendly? Sub-Saharan Africa in general can be a tricky place to travel cheaply, as it is often perceived as a high-end safari destination. Rwanda is no exception. Much of its recent tourism development has been geared toward high-end luxury lodges and trekking with the coveted mountain gorillas, which costs a lofty $1,500 for a permit.

However, don’t let the hefty price tags associated with gorillas and luxury lodges deter you from experiencing the quiet magic that Rwanda exudes. Having lived and traveled there on and off from 2015 to the present, I have found a number of tricks for saving money and exploring lesser-known destinations that are very cheap and sometimes free! Without a doubt, Rwanda on a budget is absolutely possible, if you don’t mind forgoing some of the higher-end tourist options.

Here is how to save money and visit Rwanda on a Budget.

How to Save Money on Accommodation

Although there are many high-end hotels and lodges, there are also a handful of hostels, reasonably priced guesthouses, and even some Airbnbs, not to mention camping. I’ve used all these options in both Kigali and destinations across the country.

Budget options tend to be simple but clean. Be aware that water and electricity reliability fluctuates, though they tend to be more consistent than in neighboring countries.

Hostels: Hostels are relatively new to Rwanda, but there are a few to choose from. A dorm room in a hostel such as Discover Rwanda Kigali or Mamba Guesthouse runs $10–15 USD/night.

Guesthouses: Hotels and lodges tend to cost well over $100 USD/night. However, there are also a number that offer private rooms for about $20-45 USD/night. The Nest in Kigali is a great bed-and-breakfast option, with private rooms costing about $50 USD/night.

Airbnbs: Airbnbs are increasingly popular in Kigali, Lake Kivu, and Musanze. Prices for a private room start at $20 USD/night.

Camping: Camping is widespread in national parks such as Nyungwe Forest and Akagera and often available on the sites of many guesthouses. Keep in mind that evenings can get cool and that camping is a bit of a challenge during rainy season. Costs run $8–15 USD/person/night. Akagera National Park, Red Rocks in Musanze, and Kitabi Eco-Center in Nyungwe all offer tents for rent.

#travel #budget trip #rwanda

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touritesafaris · 2 years

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Rwanda is also known as the land of a thousand hills. Its beauty and natural resources are ones to behold. It hosts abundant wildlife. The country is easily accessible and most of its destinations are within a few hours reach from Kigali International Airport... 📱 +254 (0) 736 027735 📧 [email protected] 🌐 https://touritesafaris.com/safaris/rwanda-safaris/ 📸 Serrah Galos #rwanda #rwanda2021 #wildlife #viajesporrwanda #gorillatrekking #gorilla #chimpanzeetrekking #chimpanzee #Holidays #getawayweekend #getawaytrip #viajes #aventuras #tourism #Tourismo #traveling #travelsty #travel #travelgram #tour #tourlife #touroperator #touroperato #natural #nature (at Lake Kivu) https://www.instagram.com/p/CW0vlGCqfux/?utm_medium=tumblr

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adyeri · 3 years

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Gorilla Tracking in Virunga National Park

Jagged along the border with Rwanda and Uganda lies one of Africa’s most biodiverse conservation area, it protects the entire Congolese portion of the Virunga Volcanoes, Ruwenzori montane woodland, high altitude forests, open savannah, and lowland rainforest.

Virunga National Park is Africa’s richest protected area in terms of avian diversity, with an astonishing 218mammal species like lions, elephants, okapi, buffalo, hippo, antelopes among others, 22 primates namely mountain gorilla, an eastern lowland gorilla, chimpanzee, black and white colobus among others 706 bird species recorded namely yellow billed barbet, black and white casqued hornbill, double toothed barbet, narrow tailed starling, shape’s starling, Ross’s turaco, black-billed turaco among others.

The Virunga Volcanoes are dissected by the international borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Virunga Volcanoes is made up of three parks; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The parks contain six volcanic mountains Karisimbi (4507 m), Mikeno (4437 m), Bisoke (3711 m), Mgahinga (3474 m), Muhabura (4127 m), and Sabinyo (3634 m) and covers an area of 447 km2. The park lies in the Albertine rift region, which is characterized by a high degree of avian and mammalian endemism due to its proximity to a Pleistocene refugium, created during the last ice age. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is situated in southwestern Uganda in Kisoro District. It covers an area of 33.7 km2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is contiguous with Virunga National Park (240 km2 ) in the DRC, and Volcanoes National Park (160 km2 ) in Rwanda. Virunga National Park is a World Heritage Site and the oldest national park in Africa, the Park was created in 1925. Virunga National Park borders an extensive network of protected areas in neighboring Uganda and Rwanda and together these contiguous protected areas form the Greater Virunga Landscape.

Things to do and see in the Virunga National Park

Virunga National Park is a habitat for 218 mammal species, 706 bird species, 78 amphibian species, and 109 reptile species, and 22 primate species. Virunga is the only park in the whole world that shelters mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and eastern chimpanzees.

Virunga National Park is one of the oldest and famous National Park in Africa, arguably the best Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, there several activities one can do in just one Park namely gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, hiking, birding, cultural experiences, and forest nature walk.

Gorilla tracking experience

Virunga National Park offers a mountain gorilla tracking encounter comparable in quality and most other respects to that of neighboring Rwanda. There are seven habituated gorilla families active for tourism. Gorilla tracking permits for Virunga National Park cost US$ 400 for foreign non-residents and US$ 150 for Congolese citizens. It is also famous for being home to about 200 critically endangered mountain gorillas

There are eight habituated gorilla families active for trekking in the Virunga National Park namely the Bageni gorilla family consisting of 26 individuals, Mapuwe gorilla family consisting 22 individuals, Kabirizi gorilla family consisting 19 individuals, Humba gorilla family 9 individuals, Lulengo gorilla family 9 individuals, Nyakamwe gorilla family 11 individuals, Rugendo gorilla family 9 individuals and Munyaga gorilla family 9 individuals.

Chimpanzee tracking experience

Chimpanzees are found in savannah woodlands, grasslands – forest mosaics, and tropical moist forests, from sea level to about 3,000 m in elevation. Chimpanzees are sheltered northwest of Rumangabo sector- Tongo, Tongo is a 10km2 block of a medium-altitude forest isolated from other similar habitats by the lava flow, traversed by an 80km network of walking trails. Tongo is home to a troop of 36 chimpanzees first habituated by the Frankfurt zoological society. Chimpanzee tracking in Virunga National Park, Rumangabo headquarters cost US$ 100 per person for foreign non-residents.

Birding

Virunga National Park is a birders’ haven; the Park is a refuge to more than 706 bird species out of which 24 are endemic species to Virunga National Park. Bird species in the Virunga National Park include red-throated alethe, handsome francolin, Kivu ground thrush, dusky crimson-wing, Arche’s ground robin, collared Apalis, red-faced woodland warbler, mountain masked Apalis, Grauer's rush warbler, Ruwenzori nightjar, Shelley's crimson wing, blue-headed sunbird, strange weaver, strip-breasted tit, collared Apalis, Ruwenzori batis, white-backed duck, African black duck, Egyptian goose, little grebe, hamerkop, yellow-billed duck, southern pochard, northern pintail, mountain buzzard, grey kestrel, quail, grey crowned crane, common snipe, curlew, marsh-sandpiper among others.

Nyiragongo Mountain Hike

The Virunga Volcano of Nyiragongo is surrounded to both the North and West by adjacent Nyamuragira Volcano, and other several volcanoes to the East namely, Mikeno, Karisimbi, and Lake Kivu. Mount Nyiragongo shelters, one of the largest active Lava Lake in the whole world. Mount Nyiragongo seats on an elevation of about 3470m, with a wide caldera at its summit about 1.5 km wide.

Nyiragongo is located in the Albertine Rift, on the western branch of the East African Rift Valley system, the Mountain is Africa’s most active volcano, and the fact is that it has erupted 34 times since 1884 and world’s largest lava Lake, about 20 km, North of Goma and approximately 180 km from Kigali International Airport.

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oasisrwandatours · 4 years

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Beautiful Rwanda Visit Rwanda, Oasis Tours we are ready to organize your trips are you interested to visit Volcanoe national park& Bisoke hiking Akagera national park Nyungwe national park Karongi tours Lake Kivu &Rubavu city tour Kigali city tour & Mount of Kigali hiking Cultural tourism & Historical tours Environmental museums Agro tourism https://www.instagram.com/p/CGUCQAKMPSt/?igshid=43gwmsr7v1d9

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southrift-galaxy-safaris-blog · 4 years

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Rwanda’s top 6 natural and heritage attractions

One of the smallest nations in East Africa, Rwanda, became infamous in the 90s during the genocide massacres. But shortly after 1994, Rwanda started with the revival of various sectors of the economy including the tourism industry, and today has been ranked among the top 20 green destinations by the Global Tourist Guide. The country has gained recognition with the World Economic Forum and the Tourism Competitive Index as the number one sustainable tourism nation, which has seen the the number of visitors entering Rwanda continue to increase year on year. Rwanda is blessed with amazing natural and heritage tourist attractions that have drawn visitors to the country to experience the real African adventure. Below is a list of top attractions not to miss while in Rwanda. 1. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is one of three nations in the whole world where it’s possible to see gorillas in their natural habitat. Despite the small area of the park with about 125km² of rain forests, it is a home to more than 400 gorillas. Located in Musanze district, it is a 90 minute scenic drive from Kigali International Airport to the trekking point.

Trekking is limited to only eight people per group at a cost of USD750 per permit. Besides the mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to golden monkey trekking, and gives you the opportunity to come into contact with these rare primates.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the south-western part of Rwanda and has an unmatched biodiversity of wildlife and birding. The park covers over 1,000km of rain forests, making it Rwanda’s watershed place. The main highlight is the dense canopy walk above the forest that offers breathtaking scenic views. The park has the biggest population of black and white colobus monkeys found anywhere in the world with over 300 different troops. Other species of primates including the red tailed monkey, blue monkey, and the grey cheeked mangabey. Chimpanzee trekking is a famous activity in the park where you can get close to man’s closest cousin. Several hiking trails will lead you to a group of habituated chimpanzees and visitors can spend an hour enjoying how chimps feed and groom their young ones with rewarding photographic opportunities.

3. Kigali Kigali is among the top green cities in Africa with some memorable historical attractions. While in Kigali it is possible to visit various memorial sites that commemorate the 1994 genocide, the most famous being the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre.

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center in Gisozi to see the hard historical facts about the massive killings that left over one million Tutsi and Hutu people dead within just 100 days. 4. Akagera National Park Akagera National Park was named after the Akagera River that flows through the park and feeds into several beautiful swamp fringed lakes. With a backdrop of rolling hills dotted with African acacia woodlands and savannah grasslands, the park was formed to conserve the unique vegetation and wildlife.

There are three eco regions in the park that are teeming with about 8,000 wild animals including buffalo, elephant, hippo, giraffe, zebra and several antelope species. Bird life is also prolific with over 480 species of birds, including endemic species such as the red faced barbet. 5. Lake Kivu Lake Kivu is a stunning place to visit for your Rwanda safari. Located along the Rwandan border next to the Democratic Republic of Congo, it offers swimming and boat cruising opportunities on the fresh waters of the great East African rift valley. Visitors can relax and enjoy lake side picturesque views.

6. Butare For a taste of Rwandan culture, delve into its history at Butare’s national museum or at the royal palaces of the former Rwandan monarchs. Visitors to Butare will also get the chance to taste the local cuisine, where several restaurants offer a range of local foodstuffs and international dishes.

Also see : Rwandaop holiday deals in Kenya Best Deals on Major Seasonal Holidays – Valentine, Easter, Madaraka, Mashujaa, Jamhuri & Christmas. Variety of options – Safari adventures, Beach, Getaways & International. Only top-rated destinations & pocket-friendly prices. Weekend Getaway Deals in Kenya Self Drive Holiday Deals in Kenya Outdoor Activities in Kenya Madaraka Express SGR Holiday Deals in Kenya Seasonal holiday Deals in Kenya Read the full article

#africa #gorilla #rwanda

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gorillatrips · 4 years

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Best Places To Visit on a Rwanda Safari

Rwanda is known as “Le Pays des Mille Collines” (Land of a Thousand Hills) thanks to the endless mountains in this scenically stunning little country. In this post, we bring you the best places to visit on a Rwanda safari, Rwanda tour destinations you should not miss.

Nowhere are the mountains more majestic than the Virunga volcanoes in the northwest, and hidden among the bamboo forests are some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. For a change of scene, the shores of Lake Kivu conceal some of the best inland beaches on the continent, while Nyungwe Forest National Park protects extensive tracts of montane rainforest, and is home to many primates. But it’s not all monkey business – Kigali, the capital, is safe and sophisticated. Hence, Rwanda Safari Tours isn’t all about primates, rather it’s a combination of a bustling city, unbeatable views, and unmatched safari activities.

Mention Rwanda to anyone with a small measure of geopolitical conscience, and that person will no doubt recall images of the horrific genocide that brutalized this tiny country in 1994. But since those dark days a miraculous transformation has been wrought and today the country is one of tribal unity, political stability, and a promising future. Tourism is once again a key contributor to the economy and the industry’s brightest star is the chance to track rare mountain gorillas through bamboo forests in the shadow of the Virunga volcanoes.

These conical mountains are shrouded in equatorial jungles and helped earn Rwanda the well-deserved moniker of ‘Le Pays des Mille Collines’ (Land of a Thousand Hills). When you visit Rwanda, you will be amazed by its clean Capital of Kigali, with Roads that are in good shape, with an infrastructure that most Africans find amazing.

The country has positioned itself as an up-market destination by upgrading its lodges, adding exclusive World Class Lodges and Hotels, upgrading its Road Network and making Rwanda one of Africa’s most welcoming nations. One unique thing you will observe on your Rwanda Safari Tours which is not in other East Africa Countries is that there are strict law and order, there isn’t any garbage on the streets.

Rwanda is a small country in the heart of Africa but it comes with an abundance of activities that well compliment the Top places to visit on a Rwanda Safari. Rwanda Tour introduces with the hundreds of hiking and biking trails, the countless of historic and cultural sites including performances of its fabulous Dance and Music Rituals, and on the must-do and sees the list is a visit to one of the Sacred Places in Rwanda, the Memorials honoring the victims of the 1994 Genocide.

The Best places to visit on a Rwanda Safari give you the best of nature’s experience (Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park) and the best of Cultural exposure (National Museum of Rwanda, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, Gorilla Naming Ceremony, Rukari Ancient History Museum).

Places To Visit On A Rwanda Safari — Top Rwanda Destinations

1.Volcanoes National Park (The Gorilla Park).

Munyinya and the twins of the Hirwa gorilla family on Mt. Visoke at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park, which runs along the border with the DRC and Uganda, taking number one spot of the Places to visit on a Rwanda Safari, is home to the Rwandan section of the Virungas. Comprising five volcanoes, the Virungas are utterly spellbinding and few would argue that this is not one of the most exciting national parks in Uganda. We probably needn’t remind you, but of all the extraordinary sights and attractions around the Virungas, the one that really draws people here are the famous mountain gorillas.

While most tourists to the park are understandably driven by the desire to have a face-to-face encounter with real gorillas in the mist, there is good reason to stay in the area once you’ve finished tracking: the gorillas share the park with rare golden monkeys, a troop of which has also been habituated to human contact. The Virungas, which tower over Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC, also present a variety of rewarding climbing and trekking options. To get the most from the Virungas give yourself as much time as you possibly can as this is absolutely a park that rewards those who linger.

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2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Places to visit on a Rwanda Safari list is not complete until you include Nyungwe Forest. Quite simply, Nyungwe Forest National Park is Rwanda’s most important area of biodiversity, with no fewer than 1000 plant species, 13 species of primates, 75 species of other mammals, at least 275 species of birds and an astounding 120 species of butterflies. It has been rated the highest priority for forest conservation in Africa and its protected area covers one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. Despite its huge biodiversity, Nyungwe is little known outside of East Africa.

Nyungwe’s strongest drawcard is the chance to track chimpanzees, which have been habituated over the years to human visits. While chimps tend to garner most of the spotlight here, sightings of troops of other monkeys, including Angolan colobi, Dent’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, olive baboons, vervet monkeys and diademed monkeys, are virtually guaranteed.

3. Akagera National Park

Call it a miracle. Created in 1934 to protect the lands surrounding the Kagera River, Akagera National Park is back with a vengeance. It once protected nearly 10% of Rwanda and was considered to be one of the finest wildlife reserves in the whole of Africa. Sadly, due to the massive numbers of refugees who returned to Rwanda in the late 1990s, over half of the park was de-gazetted and resettled with new villages. Human encroachment facilitated poaching and environmental degradation and Akagera’s wildlife was very nearly decimated.

However, strict conservation laws, better management, the reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, the revamping of old camps and the building of new ones has meant that Akagera is getting increasingly popular. Sure, it can’t compete with its counterparts in Kenya or Uganda, but its scenic landscapes, diverse habitats, and rich wildlife are well worth making the list of best places to visit on a Rwanda safari.

4. Kigali (The Capital City of Rwanda)

Kigali City Skyline

And of course, the one should not miss out on the Places to visit on a Rwanda Safari list is Kigali Capital City. Spanning several ridges and valleys, Kigali, with its lush hillsides, flowering trees, winding boulevards, and bustling streets, is arguably one of the most attractive and gorgeous capital cities in Africa, as well as one of the cleanest and safest.

Rwanda Tour also introduces with stunning local Arts, Crafts, delightful restaurants that serve excellent food, be sure to try some Goat Brochettes and try the superb Rwandan coffee at one of the coffee shops in Kigali. You can get a taste of history here by visiting the genocide memorials and learn about the turbulent past of the country.

The Genocide Memorial, the former Presidential Palace Museum, the Muslim Quarter with all of its sights and sounds, Hotel Rwanda, the Belgian Soldier Memorial, and many others.

During the genocide, victims fled to churches seeking refuge, only to find that some of the clergy was providing information to the Interahamwe. As a result of this lack of compassion, some of the most horrific massacres took place inside the sanctums of churches throughout Rwanda. All these memorials can be visited on a day trip from Kigali.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

Gorillas will always be there, hopefully, so often the best time to take a Rwanda Safari Tour is ideally whenever you get the opportunity. In terms of temperature & rainfall we’ve got a handy month by month chart to help you find out more, as well as Rwanda, travel advice and tips from our friends in Rwanda to help you travel with care and respect.

Don’t be put off by the November shorter rains and March-May longer rains though, as you will have the forests, lakes and mountains to yourself, and often cheaper gorilla permits too. The majority of visitors wish for Rwanda Safari to see gorillas, and so the best time is often whenever you can get a highly in-demand permit.

Keen photographers may even prefer the rainy season, as there is less light contrast coming through the trees, allowing you to focus solely on your subject matter.

If there are any particular activities that you would like to do on out Places to visit on a Rwanda Safari list, please let us know. Being one of the established Rwanda Safari Tour operators we have been crafting great itineraries for our visitors, you can go through few of our best-crafted packages here, https://www.gorillatrips.net/rwanda-tours/

#Rwanda Safari #Rwanda Safari Tours #rwanda tours

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splendoursofafrica-blog · 5 years

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Destinations That You Will See through Tour Packages from Top Africa Tour Companies

Find one of the top and reputed Africa tour companies and you will explore some of the fascinated destinations that are sure to keep you busy and enticed for the time to come. Some of the most charming and wonderful destinations that you will see are the following:

Kenya – The Wildlife Paradise

Kenya is one of the most charming African countries – well-protected to explore wildlife. Different tour packages are offered to help you explore some of the most charming destinations that include, but not limited to:

· Amboseli National Park, Aberdare National Park

· Chyulu Hills National Park, Laikipia Plateau

· Lake Baringo National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park

· Masai Mara National Reserve, Meru National Park

· Mount Kenya National Park, Nairobi National Park

· Samburu National Reserve and different others

You have to choose the right package according to number of days that you want to spend during your tour and enjoy pleasant time. From pick up to drop off, wildlife sanctuaries tours, safari, accommodation to food of your choice, you will get everything arranged for you. Options for touring are not just limited to Kenya that are offered by renowned Africa tour companies, but have expended to other nations too.

Tanzania – Explore Amazing Wildlife

Tanzania is also blessed with abundance natural beauty and pride of Africa tourism that lure nature lovers and those who want serenity and life to live away from sky scrapers and city life. Some of the most charming and picturesque parks and wildlife reserves that you will see include, but not limited to:

· Arusha National Park, Serengeti National Park

· Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park

· Ngorongoro Conservancy, Selous Game Reserve

· Ruaha National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park

· Gombe Stream National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

All aforementioned destinations are globally renowned and explored by a good number of tourists all round the year. You have to choose the right one and make a contact.

Uganda – Wildlife and Mountain Range Tours

Find one of the top Africa tour companies and explore uganda safari tours according to your choice to explore the hidden charm of Mother Nature. Some of the most beautiful national parks and wonderful attractions that you will see in Uganda include:

· Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Kibale Forest National Park

· Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park

· Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Murchison Falls National Park

· Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semuliki National Park

Rwanda – Secret of Africa Tourism

Rwanda is also another wonderful destination to explore during your holidays in Africa. From a selected Africa tour company, you will get affordable tour packages that cover some of the most charming destinations that include:

· Akagera National Park, Lake Kivu

· Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park

Apart from the aforementioned destinations, you will also see different other places that include Indian Ocean Islands, Zanzibar Islands, Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles.

#africa travel and tours #african safari package holidays #african safari tour packages #uganda safari tours

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amcbrooks-blog · 5 years

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Celebrating gorillas at “the best Kwita Izina ever!” Rwanda’s gorilla naming ceremony

Gorilla tracking is said to be a “once in a lifetime” experience yet I love this primate encounter more and more each time

Oblivious to our presence, the Silverback mountain gorilla takes a snooze…

Did you know… if you track the mountain gorillas around the time of Kwita Izina, you can get a personal invitation to attend the gorilla naming ceremony?

Last week’s mountain gorilla tracking was even more exhilarating than the last time – but I’ll leave that story for another day. For now, imagine the calm here in Volcanoes National Park as a ranger guide watches a Blackback* male mountain gorilla …

*A Blackback will one day mature to be a Silverback gorilla.

I have huge respect for the rangers, guides and researchers on the ground who protect these beguiling creatures (and the porters clad in overalls and gum boots who effortlessly help us track).

What is Kwita Izina?

During the first week of September every year, celebrities from around the world touch down in Kinigi, Volcanoes National Park, to name the baby gorillas born in the last year in Rwanda. There is nothing like this anywhere else.

From early morning, thousands of young Rwandese throng to the event site. They wait excitedly for their favourite musicians to perform for them live, free of charge. It’s said 60,000 people attended Kwita Izina 2018!

Dancers warm up the crowd at Kwita Izina. Behind them is the gorilla-shaped stage crafted from natural materials

The Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony is an opportunity to publicly thank the conservationists closest to protecting these great apes. It’s also a global showcase for the country’s tourism industry. Gorilla namers include Rwandan and international conservationists, sports personalities, renown philanthropists and diplomats. Read my blog from a previous Kwita Izina, in which I explain the derivation of the term and the history of its creation.

According to East African tourism expert Carmen Nibigira, this year’s event was “the best event ever!”

Why is Kwita Izina such an important event for Rwanda and Africa?

Thanks to conservation initiatives like Kwita Izina, the Mountain Gorilla population in the Virunga Massif has increased from 480 in 2010 to to 604 in 2016 (results of last census). The Virunga Massif covers Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and the Mikeno Sector of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In 1981, Mountain Gorilla numbers had dropped to just 242 individuals, according to the Rwanda Development Board. (Results of the latest gorilla census are expected to show a further increase in gorilla numbers. However the species is still classed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List).

Now in its 14th year, Kwita Izina has gone from being a one day gorilla naming event to a whole week of conservation and tourism related events. Tourism can be a powerful tool for lifting people out of poverty and Rwanda is pushing it at every level. One of the week’s events is the two-day Conversation on Conservation (CoC) forum in Kigali which takes a strategic look at conservation in the country.

What were the highlights of Kwita Izina 2018?

My 11 hour bus journey from Kampala to Kigali was worth every minute. Here are a few of the amazing people I met in Rwanda.

I couldn’t resist saying hello to fellow Brit Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, one of 23 celebrity namers at the Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony. I’ve always been a fan of his TV shows and environmental campaigns

Prosper Uwingeli is the Chief Park Warden of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Here I’m proudly holding my box of Rwandese tea 🙂

Prosper was very helpful when I was researching the ecotourism guidebook “Walking with the Gorillas” published earlier this year by Horizon Travel Press.

Click on this graphic to download a free copy of “Walking with the Gorillas.” I was lead writer / researcher on this ecotourism guide. Contributors: Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikuosoka, Ian Redmond OBE and Emmanuel Bugingo

Did you know … trackers are now given beautiful presentation boxes of tea or coffee – Rwandese of course! (These replace the certificates we used to be given). Gorilla tracking in Rwanda now costs a whopping $1500 per permit as Rwanda pitches the country as a high-end tourism destination.

The South African duo Mafikozolo performed live at the Gala Dinner held at the Lake Kivu Serena Hotel in Gisenyi. Theo Kgosinkwe was one of the gorilla namers. (Thanks to Priya and Mallick of Red Scarab for letting me photobomb their moment with him!)

It’s always a pleasure to see the tourism dynamo Carmen Nibigira (middle). Susan Muumbi (left) from the East African newspaper has been a wonderful travel companion from one corner of Rwanda to the other! Photo taken at Kigali Serena Hotel

Susan and I watched three lions in Akagera National Park, ate Sambaza fish on Lake Kivu, survived the jaw-dropping canopy walkway in Nyungwe Forest, and enjoyed a thrilling gorilla tracking experience with the Titus gorilla family.

I had the honour of meeting His Highness ‘The Green Sheikh’ Abdul Aziz al Nuaimi (centre). To the right is Dr. Edwin Sabuhoro of the Parks, Recreations and Tourism Management. Thanks for the introduction Carmen Nibigira!

The 2018 gorilla namers with Belise Karisa, Chief Tourism Officer of Rwanda Development Board

As each namer takes the stage, they read out the gorilla baby names in Kinyarwanda and English. It’s fun to try and record the names on these Baby Name Cards

Anyone can get a flavour of the Kwita Izina by visiting Vecotourism.org – one click and you are virtually there!

Here’s a full list of 2018’s gorilla namers. Information courtesy of RDB.

– His Highness Sheikh Dr. Abdulaziz Ali Bin Rashid Al Nuami, the ‘Green Sheikh’, has dedicated his life to traveling and environmental stewardship.

– Dr. Noeline Raondry Rakotoarisa is the Program Chief of Capacity Building and Partnerships Section for UNESCO/MAB (Man and Biosphere).

– Madame Graca Machel is the former First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique. She is an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights.

– Aliaume Damala Badara Akon Thiam is an American singer, songwriter, businessman, record producer and actor of Senegalese descent.

– Samba Bathily is a Malian philanthropist, He is CEO of Solektra International and co-founder of Akon Lighting Africa with Akon and Thione Niang.

– Alexandra Virina Scott is a retired English footballer who played as a right-back for Arsenal Women. She made 140 appearances for the English national team and represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics.

Arsenal Football Club’s players will sport the VisitRwanda shirt sleeve starting from the 2018/19 season for three years. Photograph: Arsenal FC

– Laureano Bisan Etamé-Mayer, commonly known as Lauren, is a retired Cameroonian footballer, who played for the Cameroonian national team and Arsenal FC.

– Strive Masiyiwa is a Zimbabwean businessman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He is the founder and executive chairman of telecommunications, media and technology group Econet Wireless and Econet Media. Click here to read his great Facebook update about his experience at Kwita Izina.

– Adrian Gardiner. South African Adrian Gardiner is the founder and chairman of Mantis, a family-run collection of privately-owned hotels, eco escapes and lifestyle resorts, with a large presence in Africa.

– Michael O’Brien-Onyeka is the Senior Vice President of Conservation International for Africa, a non-governmental conservation and sustainable development organization.

– Thomas Krulis is the Coordinator of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and CEO, Loto Investments.

– Hong Liang & Xinyu Zhang. The celebrity couple host the popular online travel programme ‘Lu Xing’ (On the Road).

– Hugh Fernley-Whittingstall is the Vice President, Flora & Fauna International UK. He is an English celebrity chef, television personality, journalist, food writer and campaigner on food and environmental issues.

– Peter Riedel is the President and COO of Rhode Schwarz International, an electronics group specialized in the fields of electronic test equipment, broadcast & media as well as cybersecurity.

– Alexa Gray represents the Gordon and Patricia Gray Animal Welfare Foundation (a supporter / donor for the VNP Expansion Program through the Africa Wildlife Foundation).

– Michael Wale is the Group CEO of Kerzner International, a company that develops and manages luxury resorts, residences and entertainment resorts.

– Ambassador Peter H. Vrooman, US ambassador to Rwanda.

– Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria. (What a wonderful speech!)

– Theo Kgosinkwe and Nhlanhla Nciza. The duo, known as Mafikizolo, are three-time winners of the South African Music Award for Group or Duo of the Year.

– Rao Hongwei is the ambassador of the People’s Republic of China.

– Odette Nyiramongi is the proprietor of Paradis Malahide Resort, an eco-friendly hotel in Rubavu.

– Judith Kakuze, a former porter at the Volcanoes National Park, is now on the Advisory Committee of the Volcanoes National Park Porter Association.

– Jeannette Uwiragiye. In 2017, Jeannette graduated as the best female student in the Department of Forestry Conservation, IPRC- Kitabi.

I always come away from Kwita Izina inspired. Rwanda tourism knows no bounds.

A big shout-out to every one at Rwanda Development Board for attending to every little detail of our superb tour of what some call the ‘Singapore of Africa.’

A special thank you to Rosemary Mugambi and everyone at Serena Hotels who hosted us at the Kigali Serena and Lake Kivu Serena. Your fabulous facilities were a real treat.

Have you tracked the mountain gorillas? Have you attended Kwita Izina? What were your impressions?

The post Celebrating gorillas at “the best Kwita Izina ever!” appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu | Uganda & East Africa Travel Blog.

#KwitaIzina2018 VisitRwanda</p>

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greenhillsecotours · 4 years

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Visiting Rwanda - Enjoy the Beautiful Lake Kivu sunset . . From #greenhillsecotours #inspirecharity #boat #lake #sunset #photography #photo #saturday #life #tourism #visitrwanda_now #tourismchamber_rw #kivu #Gisenyi #kibuye #goma #drc #Rubavu #Rwanda #beautiful #country (at GREEN HILLS ECOTOURS) https://www.instagram.com/p/CD689sZDfWE/?igshid=1hjxg6ef1iybj

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hradayshahjudeo · 5 years

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Posted @hradayshahjudeo • @natgeo Photos by @brentstirton | Great news from Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: It's reopening for tourism on February 15. This is absolutely one of the most unique national parks in the world. For me it’s the best mountain gorilla experience out there, not to mention the cheapest and the most authentic. The Kibumba camp will reopen in the gorilla sector, and tourists will once again be able to see these incredible animals. When a magnificent silverback looks directly at you, it is unquestionably a life-changing experience for your comprehension of animal intelligence. Nyiragongo, the largest active volcano lake in the world, is also reopening. You can overnight up at 11,000 feet and watch dawn break over the rim. I don’t have the words to describe how primal and beautiful the view is over the surrounding park. Chigera Island in Lake Kivu is also reopening; this place offers a private island experience, allowing you to look back at Goma and the active volcano sector with a view like no other. This is truly a different travel experience, and you are supporting people who do the some of the most difficult work in the conservation world.# #conservation #gorilla #gorillatrekking #wildlife #hradayshahjudeo #rajkumarsaheb #nature #animallover #forest #humansiblings #humansibling #chimpanzee #orangutans #tourism https://www.instagram.com/p/BtuM9tyHVW7/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=10p9aqa9un8y

#conservation #gorilla #gorillatrekking #wildlife #hradayshahjudeo #rajkumarsaheb #nature #animallover #forest #humansiblings #humansibling #chimpanzee #orangutans #tourism

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earthstory · 7 years

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Virunga National Park.

The Great Lakes region of Africa is a perilous place, regularly ranked in the top three of The World's Most Dangerous Places guide, yet it contains spectacular landscapes and national parks, powerful volcanoes and endangered wildlife such as mountain gorillas. Virunga is situated in the borderlands of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a vast country in the middle of the continent, adjoining other national parks in Uganda and the Volcanoes national park in Rwanda.

Stretching from the Virunga chain of eight volcanoes in the south, part of the western Albertine branch of the great African rift, to the glaciated Rwenzori mountains in the north, it encompasses a wide diversity of landscapes, including the famous volcano Nyiragongo, Its permanent lava lake of very fluid alkaline basalt was first explored by Haroun Tazieff (see http://tinyurl.com/m3b9oob). It was Africa's first national park, established by king Albert 1 of Belgium in 1925 while the territory was still a colony.

It has been on the world heritage list since 1979, but the park is endangered by a near permanent state of armed conflict that has decimated wildlife and wiped out tourism and the much needed income that comes from it. In 1994 UNESCO put it on the list of world heritage sites in danger. Before the conflict it was the most biodiverse park in Africa, but the current situation is unknown due to the obvious obstacles to undertaking survey work. While the gorillas are doing reasonably well, land invasions and intense poaching due to loss of tourist and other income in the ongoing conflict have affected the rest of the park to an unknown degree. While tourism is still possible on occasion, be aware that it is a dangerous place, and check the situation carefully before visiting, as it is volatile and swift changing. At the time of writing the park is closed.

The mountains and volcanoes were uplifted by magma in the last three million years. As Africa splits open in very very slow motion, magma rises up from the mantle and erupts at the surface, uplifting the surrounding area in the process. The landscapes range from icefields and mountain forests to swamps, lava fields to active smokers, the shores of lake Kivu and all of Lake Edward, each with its own distinctive habitats, making it the most diverse park in Africa. The DRC's highest and lowest rainfalls are recorded there, and the altitude varies between 680 meters to 5109 creating a wide variety of micro climates. The park covers the borderlands between several major biogeographic zones, and provides wildlife corridors between them.

Loz

Image credit: Cai at Wikivoyage

http://www.visitvirunga.org/ http://www.visitvirunga.org/about-virunga/ http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/63/ http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/630228/Virunga-National-Park http://www.eoearth.org/view/article/156857/

#geology #volcano #Virunga #National park #UNESCO #Haroun tazieff #nature #landscape #lenticular cloud #VolcanoMonday #congo #rwanda

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