Land of a Thousand Hills

Every day at Akagera National Park offers the chance to explore some of East Africa's most breathtaking landscapes, from expansive savannah and lush woodland to tranquil lakes and grassy rolling hills. Encounter Africa's wildlife up close, including the Big Five, high hippo densities and impressive crocodiles. Enjoy twice daily game drives through Akagera's diverse terrain, keeping a keen eye out for majestic lions and cantankerous black rhinos, which thrive in this exclusive-use area. And as the sun sets, head out on a night drive to witness the park's nocturnal wonders come to life. For a more intimate experience, join guided walking safaris and uncover the hidden treasures of Akagera, or glide across the serene lake on a boating safari, keeping an eye out for elephants or even a unique fishing leopard.

Most people come to Volcanoes National Park to enjoy gorilla trekking excursions, where permits grant access to a habituated gorilla family for a one-hour, allowing for an awe-inspiring encounter with these critically endangered primates. Golden monkey trekking in the Park’s forests is another excursion which showcases the resident primates of Rwanda's forests. Beyond these highlights, you can also embark on guided nature and birding walks, visit a community beehive project, participate in tree planting at the lodge nursery, guided by an agronomist, or visit the nursery school at Bisate Village, contributing to local education initiatives. Adventure further extends to full-day hikes, including a challenging ascent of Mount Bisoke, or a trek to Dian Fossey’s grave and the Karisoke Research Centre, a historic site of gorilla conservation. You might also choose to explore the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which showcases ongoing conservation efforts.

Embark on an unforgettable trek through the emerald slopes of Volcanoes National Park. Guided by expert trackers, venture further into the mist-shrouded mountains in search of a gorilla family - each with its own unique hierarchy, personalities, and rhythms of life. Depending on where your allocated gorilla group is located, the drive can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. As you move quietly through the dense forest, the symphony of the jungle surrounds you: the rustle of bamboo, the songs of vibrant bird species, and the playful chatter of golden monkeys leaping through the canopy. Every step reveals a new facet of this rich montane ecosystem, from the whispering bamboo groves to open glades bathed in filtered light. When you finally encounter your gorilla family, time seems to stand still. For one precious hour, observe their gentle interactions - the watchful silverback, nurturing mothers, and curious juveniles - offering an intimate glimpse into one of nature’s most profound bonds. Return to camp exhilarated, carrying with you not just photographs, but an indelible sense of awe and connection that only a second day in the presence of these great primates can bring.