Rwanda - Parc National Des Volcans

Rwanda - Parc National Des Volcans

The volcanic peaks of Rwanda are home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas and offer a safari like no other in Africa.

Residing high in the mist, the primates have found sanctuary among the dark green, dense vegetation of the Parc National Des Volcans. Tracking the powerful, but gentle, creatures takes in some of the finest views in Africa: mountainscapes of thick moors, glistening lakes and forests of dense bamboo.

Roaming the vegetation are elephants, giant hogs and spotted hyenas. The keen-eyed adventurer might have the chance to glimpse the endangered Golden Monkey.

Deeper into the park, there are other natural wonders to behold. Caving beneath the volcanic rock offers travellers a completely different perspective. For those that trek up to the Musanze Caves, there is the chance to descend down into the darkness below, and once on the floor look up where the vegetation twists high towards the sunlight above.

Visitors with a mind to conservation will want to walk the Dian Fossey trail while in Rwanda. The Karisoke Research Center, which the Gorillas on the Mist author established, is still going strong today and is a fitting tribute to her legacy, while her grave is a reminder of the centre’s importance.

Only among the gorillas themselves will your realise what a very special country Rwanda is.