FAQs

Rwanda had one national park, the Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes National Park is a significant and iconic conservation area in Rwanda. It is renowned for its majestic volcanic landscapes and is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which also extends into Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Rwanda has a diverse bird population, with over 700 species identified inside its boundaries. The country's diverse environments, which include montane forests, marshes, savannas, and lakes, sustain a large diversity of bird species. Rwanda's bird species include both resident birds that may be found all year and migratory birds that arrive at certain seasons.

The Red-Eyed Dove (Streptopelia semitorquata) is the most common bird in Rwanda. This animal is widespread across the country and may be found in a variety of environments such as forests, savannas, gardens, and agricultural regions. The Red-eyed Dove is distinguished by its unique look and melodic and repeating cooing sound. Its plumage is composed of soft gray-brown feathers, a reddish-brown crest, and a vivid red eye ring, which lends it its name. These doves graze on seeds, grains, fruits, and insects and typically form tiny flocks. The Red-eyed Dove is a well-known and appreciated bird in Rwanda due to its ability to adapt to varied situations and vocal presence.

Rwanda's national animal is the African leopard (Panthera pardus). This majestic large cat is noted for its stunning spotted coat and ability to thrive in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and mountains. The African leopard is regarded in Rwandan tradition as a symbol of power, agility, and elegance. It depicts the country's diverse biodiversity and acts as a reminder of the significance of animal protection in Rwanda.

Rwanda's climate does not neatly align with the traditional four-season classification, and the concept of summer is not as pronounced as in some other regions. However, the months of June to August are generally considered part of the drier and cooler season in Rwanda. During this period, temperatures are relatively moderate, with afternoon temperatures usually around 27°C/81°F.

Although Rwanda is located near the equator, its climate is cooler than one might expect, primarily because of its elevated altitude and predominantly mountainous terrain. However, similar to most equatorial countries, local temperatures are constant throughout the year, though they may vary depending on altitude; instead of spring, summer, fall, and winter, Rwanda has two rainy seasons and two dry seasons.

Rwanda, located in East-Central Africa, experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. The country's elevation and proximity to the equator contribute to a relatively temperate climate. The four seasons in Rwanda are as follows:

Rwanda stands out as one of the safest countries for gorilla trekking, offering a secure and enriching experience for visitors. The country has made remarkable strides in terms of stability and security, fostering a welcoming environment for tourists eager to witness the captivating mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The best time for a gorilla trek in Rwanda is generally during the dry seasons, which occur from mid-December to early February and from June to September. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, and trekking conditions are more favorable.

Gorilla trekking is an exciting and unique trip that allows people to see the gorgeous mountain gorillas in their natural environment. While it is not a hard exercise, a certain degree of physical fitness is recommended to appreciate the experience properly.