As peace and stability have returned to Rwanda, the Parc des Volcans has once again become the most popular place to undertake one of Africa's greatest wildlife experiences - an encounter with the magnificent mountain gorilla. These endangered primates, made famous by Diane Fossey, live in the pristine forests of the Virunga Volcanoes on the border of Rwanda and Uganda. The park is easily reached by road from Kigali, the capital, which is a short flight from Nairobi. Visits to a Chimpanzee sanctuary can also be arranged.
Uganda, called “The Pearl of Africa” by Sir Winston Churchill because of its scenic beauty, also offers fantastic primate viewing. You can trek to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park in the Virunga Volcanoes and there are a number of sanctuaries for viewing chimpanzees, such as Ngamba Island in Lake Victoria where orphaned chimpanzees have been relocated. You can also take a safari in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its abundant game and its huge population of hippo in the beautiful Kazinga Channel.
Our selection of programs in Rwanda & Uganda include gorilla & chimpanzee treks. To find our more about our range of programs in Rwanda & Uganda, please download the Rwanda & Uganda section of our Africa brochure.
Highlights of Rwanda & Uganda include:
• Gorilla Trekking
• Chimpanzee viewing
• Dramatic mountain scenery
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
Gorilla viewing
Rwanda & Uganda can be visited at any time of the year, however during the long dry season between Jun-Sep the ground is dryer and dirt roads are more accessible enalbing an easier passage to visit the gorillas and chimpanzees.
Climate
On the equator the altitude keeps temperatures down (25°-28°C), and mountain areas where the gorillas care found can be cool to cold. Rain falls throughout the year but is heaviest during Mar-May and Oct-Nov.
