There are many things to do in Kigali which we will discuss in detail in the following chapters. Kigali is the main commercial, political and cultural center in Rwanda. It is like a mirror into everything good about the country because everything starts and ends in Kigali. Kigali is a highly regarded city in Africa because of its cleanliness, organization and safety. The government has built it to look simple but modern. The landscape in the city is also something to rave about because is dominated by prominent hills, eye-catching buildings and other landmarks. Kigali is not only a commercial and cultural capital of Rwanda but also houses the most important historical sites in the country.

The devastating and brutal genocide of 1994 started from Kigali. It is in Kigali where the interahamwe begun organizing a brutal genocide which eventually claimed the life of over 600,000 moderate Hutus and the Tutsi’s. Despite this dark spot in the city’s history, Kigali has grown in leaps and bounds. The new government has done everything possible to position it as a leading city in East and Central Africa.

The above efforts have turned Kigali into a clean and safe city with a well-organized transport system by East African standards. The city’s cleanliness is partly attributed to the monthly communal cleaning known as Umuganda. These communal cleaning occur on weekends and has been made public holiday where everyone in the country participates in cleaning their locality. Even president Kagame takes part in these monthly cleanings around the country.

There are many things that one can take part in while on a safari in Rwanda through Kigali. The key attractions are the genocide memorial centers, the city markets, cultural centers, shopping malls, night life and more. The main tourism sites can be visited in a 1 day Kigali city tour before or after a long safari in Rwanda.

Things to do in Kigali

1. Climb Mount Kigali: As a city with many hills, climbing one of them is a must during your stay. Of all the hills in the city, Mount Kigali is the most interesting. Mount Kigali is not actually a mountain but the tallest hill in Kigali. The name is an attempt at capturing the attention of tourists in the city. Mount Kigali is 6,000 feet high and to get to the summit, one needs to get to the starting point in Nyamirambo. Getting to the summit rewards tourists with the best views of the entire city and is an excellent spot for group photos. After enjoying beautiful views of the city, tourists tend to go for a meal or drink at Mera Neza. There is also a ranch in Fazenda Sengha for those interested in horse riding.
2. Local Motorbike tour: Also known as boda, motorcycles are arguably the most popular and convenient means of transport in Rwanda. Motorbike transport in Rwanda is more formalized and organized. There are strong laws governing operators. For example, every rider has a designated station, protective head gear (for both the rider and passenger) and a limited carrying capacity. A tourist can rent one for a self-ride or is taken for a city tour by one of the riders. Motorbike tours are excellent for exploring Kigali in a more personal way. You are able to see parts of the city that you wouldn’t with a car. Motorbikes are fast and flexible allowing you to visit different sites within a few hours.
3. Volunteering: Wondering where to volunteer while in Kigali? Well, you will be spoilt for choice because there are many social projects for people interested in volunteering. Hospitals, schools, sports organizations and Non-Government Organizations (NGO’s) have such kind of opportunities for people who want to lend a hand. Volunteering is not only an opportunity to offer your services for the greater good but also an opportunity to interact with the local people. This is the time to understand the culture of the people and the challenges they face.
4. Go bowling: The local people are not so keen on bowling because it is seen as a game for the affluent. Never the less, it is a very exciting game for families or friends because it encourages bonding and character building. Mamba club is one of the popular places for bowling. Everything is arranged is such a way as to encourage networking. If you are very social, you may end up getting the right business contacts. You can hang out after the games with families and friends. Mamba Club even has food, ice cream and food for those who may be interested.
5. Visit Craft shops and Art Galleries: Like everywhere else, the people of Rwanda love to tell their story using art. Most art products are derived from materials got locally. Some of the products include colorful dresses, bangles, necklaces and beads. These products can be bought for display in living rooms, as souvenirs or as gifts for loved ones. The art centres in Kigali include Kigali Arts centre, Abien Arts Centre, Inema Arts centre, Ivuka arts, and Indiba art space. For the best fashion, consider visiting Abraham Kongo collections, GoKigali Boutique, Nyamirambo Women’s centre and Sarah Day Design.
6. Visit a health Club:  As a progressive city, Kigali is home to several health clubs that offer services like pedicure, facial clean-up, manicures, steam baths, sauna, body massage, body building and aerobics. Your budget dictates which place to go to because there are both high-end and more budget friendly options.
7. Shopping Malls: Those interested in window or serious shopping will struggle to choose where to go from the hundreds of shopping malls in the city. There are both small and large super markets. For the best shopping experience, it is always recommended that you go to the larger malls. Here you will find groceries, toiletries, textiles, shoes and electronics. Some of the big shopping mall brands include Kigali Heights, Kigali city mall, M Peace Plaza, Masterpiece mall and Uchumi.
8. Skydiving: This daredevil activity is a recent tourist attraction in Kigali. It involves jumping in a free fall from a small plane and stabilizing with the help of a parachute. Skydiving is a sport that was borrowed from military paratroopers. The activity is safe but not for the faint-hearted. It is also an expensive venture that is licensed/managed by the Rwanda Aviation authority.
9. Ride a Horse: Horse riding is organized at Rugende Park and also Fazenda Sangha on Mount Kigali. It is an exciting adventure where participants go to discover the breath-taking landscapes of the countryside on a horse. Horse riding open to both learners and experts. Learners have to first go through lessons on the basics of jumping onto a horse and managing movement.
10. Skating: Skating is very popular with youths and teenagers but even elders can take part. Skating is a newly introduced activity in Kigali and like horse riding requires some practice. The best place to learn skating while in Kigali is at SOS school in Kacyiru.  The school teaches skating for both recreation and competitions.
11. Golfing: Like bowling, the locals see golfing as a game for the more affluent, expatriates and a few of the middle class. This perception must be true because whenever you visit Kigali Golf club in Nyarutarama, you will find most of the golfers are government officials, tourist, expatriates and businessmen. This 18-hole course requires a regular membership fee which may not be affordable for the ordinary local. However, even non-members can visit the club once in a while and get a chance to mingle with some of the influential residents of the city. Golfing equipment can be hired for a fee.
12. Play Tennis: If you love lawn or table tennis, know that Kigali has several arenas where you can register to play the games. The best tennis courts are in Amahoro stadium, Umubano Hotel, Hotel Des Milles Collines, Cercle Sportif and Nyarutarama Sports Club. Most of the courts are made of clay giving a “Roland Garros” kind of experience to the participants.
13. Fishing: Rwanda may not be a leading fishing country but Lake Muhazi offers anglers some really exciting opportunities for a reasonable catch. The lake covers an area of about 32 square kilometers hence offering many fishing spots. The lake rewards not only fishermen but also birders and those who love beautiful scenery.
14. The Kigali Convention Centre: This Centre is one of the newest eye-catching architectural marvels in Kigali city. The Architects came up with an interesting beehive-like design which consists of shinning glass and a powerful beam for the night. Most of the popular conferences are held at the Kigali Convention Centre. The Kigali Convention Centre has helped Rwanda become a venue for many international conferences. The Radisson Blu Hotel is an extension of the large Convention Centre.
15. Go to the local markets: The best way to experience the culture of the people of Kigali is to visit their local markets. This is where you find people from different backgrounds gathered in one place to do business. The best markets in Kigali are Kimironko and Nyamirambo. These large markets are excellent for buying fruits, cereals, legumes, flour, spices or vegetables. Apart from food, these markets also have shops dedicated to African fabrics, curios and electronics. The atmosphere is inviting and traders welcome all buyers with a smile. It is important to note that most of the locals speak Kinyarwanda and French. English speakers may need to hire Guide to help with translations. Finally, you need to learn the art of bargaining because prices are not shown on the shelves.
16. Take Coffee or Tea:  A morning or evening visit to one of the coffee shops in Kigali is the best way of starting or ending your day. Rwandan coffee is organic and concentrated. Taking one cup will certainly lead you to craving and ordering more. The best places to go for coffee are café Neo, camellia, Inzora rooftop café, Le panorama, the popular Sundowner and Bourbon coffee.
17. Visit a coffee cooperative: If you found the Kigali coffee irresistible, then you might want to know where it is grown and processed. The best place to find out more about Rwanda coffee is to visit a popular cooperative like Queen Coffee. This private coffee cooperative organizes tours to the coffee fields and factory. By the end of your visit to this cooperative, you would have learnt how coffee is planted, harvested, processed and packed.
18. Watching Movies or visiting Night Clubs: Kigali is a lively city both during the day and at night. The night life of Kigali is about partying, dancing and having fun. If you are into movies, you can visit one of the cinema halls showing the latest local and international films in HD, 3D and 5D. If you want to interact with the local people, you can visit one of the higher end night clubs or attend a music concert bringing together popular musicians from within and outside the country. The best places to go clubbing in Kigali include Club 514, Chillax Lounge, K-Club and Rosty Bar.
19. Watch Soccer and Amahoro stadium: If you are a soccer fanatic, there is no better place to go to than the popular Amahoro stadium in Remara. Local league matches are organized here on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The game starts in the afternoon or at night. If you are lucky to visit when the national team is playing, you will get to see just how patriotic the people of Rwanda are.
20. The Kigali Public Library: The Kigali public library is ideal for those who love reading or widening their knowledge on different subjects. The library has books on historical events, political issues, and the education system in the country, business, adventure and religion. You can also find the latest novels and newspapers on the shelves. After reading your book or newspaper, you can surf the internet or watch documentaries. If you have no time to read, you can simply buy or rent a book. There is even a coffee shop within the facility. If you are interested in only books about Rwanda, we recommend that you go to Ikirezi Bookshop instead.
21. Food at a local restaurant: Kigali is home to many restaurants serving both local and international dishes. The main local cuisines to enjoy while in Kigali are Nyama Choma (roasted meat), Shawama, Ibirayi (goat mixed with potatoes), Rolex, Akabenz (cooked pork), Rwanda special (chips fired with eggs) and biriyani. Western delicacies can also be served in the various restaurants and include hamburgers, pizza, Gelato, Goulash, Paella, omelette and more. The best places to go enjoy nice food in Kigali are the Serena Hotel, hotel des Mille Collines, L’Epicurien, Repub Lounge, The Hut, Poivre Noir, Khana Khazana Kiyovu Brachetto and Now Rolex.
22. The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre: This is a pro-woman NGO found on the outskirts of Kigali. It was opened by a group of local women in 2007 with a mission of ending gender-based violence. The NGO now runs different projects to help women enhance their local capacities for self-reliance and livelihood especially after losing their spouses. The women have learnt computing, English speaking, fashion design, hair dressing, pedicure, manicure and craft-making. The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre also arranges city tours. These tours include visiting the State House Museum, local shops and the National History Museum. Supporting the Centre is one way of empowering the vulnerable women in Kigali.
23. The Gaddafi Mosque: Though its official name is the Islamic Cultural center, most prefer to call it the Gaddafi Mosque. The former Libya president Gaddafi didn’t make any contribution towards building the Mosque. Residents prefer to call it Gaddafi Mosque because it is found near the Gaddafi road. The Mosque is considered to be the main center of Islamic belief in Rwanda. It has a school and clinic that serves the local people living in the area. If you happen to visit Nyamirambo, take time to visit this beautiful mosque.
24. Go jogging or walking: Jogging or walking around Kigali is an exciting way to discover things about the city that wouldn’t be possible in a car. The streets in Kigali are well organized and safe from criminals. There are pedestrian paths along the roads with security and intelligence personnel everywhere. You can plan your walk to the suburbs, the middle of the city or the valleys of Nyarutarama and kacyiru.
25. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial:  The Kigali genocide memorial center is one of the top 5 most visited sites in Rwanda. The memorial center was constructed to remember the gruesome scenes that occurred in 1994 when over 200,000 Rwandans were killed along lines of discrimination and segregation. The remains of many of the fallen were buried here. The memorial center is a place of reflection and a constant reminder to current and future generations about the evils of discrimination. A visit to the Kigali genocide Memorial is not for the faint-hearted because you will see sorrowful images and videos of what happened during the genocide.
26. Tour the main city Museums: Like any other capital, Kigali has a rich history. Many amazing things where done by people who lived in the city before. Their works are recorded and kept in museums around the city so that they can inspire and motivate future generations.  The museums to visit in Kigali include the State House Museum, Kandt House Museum, Rwanda Art Museum and many more.
27. The Belgium UN Troop Memorial:  This is a memorial center for the 10 Belgian peacekeepers that were killed while working with the United Nations in 1994. The soldiers had been assigned to protect the Prime Minister Madame Agathe Uwiligiyimana. The assailants confronted the soldiers, overpowered and killed them. After killing the Belgium peacekeepers, the Hutu extremists murdered both the prime minister and her husband.
28. Visit Hotel des Mille Collines:  With all its current luxury offerings, Hotel des Mille Collines has a dark past. During the 1994 genocide, an influential Hotel Manager helped hide many Tutsi’s from the interahamwe militias looking for them. What transpired is featured in a famous movie about the Rwanda genocide known a “Hotel Rwanda”. Tourists love staying in the hotel not only because of the luxury facilities but because of its history. Hotel des Mille Collines has 112 guest rooms, a conference room, a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, health club, lounge area, gardens and more.

Rwanda is one of the smallest countries in Africa located in East Africa and borders Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda is rugged with various hills, the reason she is called a country of a thousand hills.

Rwanda covers a of 26,338 square kilometers, with a population of about 12 million people. The country’s population is divided between 3 different tribes; the Tutsi, who are the minority, the Hutu who are the majority and the Batwa who have a smallest population.

Rwanda is a landlocked, lying 75 miles south of the equator in the Tropic of Capricorn, 880 miles ’as the crow flies’ west of the Indian Ocean and 1,250 miles east of the Atlantic Ocean which makes her the heart of Africa.  The country is covered with water bodies which include 23 lakes and numerous rivers, some forming the source of the River Nile.

The country is largely on a high altitude with the highest point being the peak of Mount Karisimbi which lies at 4519 meters above sea level and the lowest point is at Rusizi River at 950 meters above sea level.

According to All About Rwanda, this small country faced a gruesome genocide in 1994 that saw over 800000 people dead most of who were the minority Tutsi and a few sympathetic Hutu. This genocide was orchestrated by the Hutu who were then in the ruling government and was against the Tutsi who were then fighting the ruling government. The genocide that lasted 100 days was sparked when the plane that was carrying the then president Juvenal Habyarimana was brought down in Kigali and he died there together with the then Burundi’s president as they returned from Tanzania from peace talks.

Rwanda has various tourist attractions which include animals of the wild that protected from poachers and roam free in the vast national parks, the Mountains with great scenery, the genocide memorials, cultural museums, cultural and nature walks. Listed below are the ten tourist attractions you cannot miss while on Rwanda tour.

1. Gorilla Tracking
   One of the most exciting experiences in the world is gorilla tracking and this is done in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda. This involves trekking in the mountainous forest in search of the gorillas. Gorillas are the most exciting primates that share 98% DNA with humans making them the closest relatives to human beings. These animals live in groups headed by a dominant male called a silverback. Each family is visited by a maximum number of 8 people per day and there are 12 habituated gorilla families.
2. Chimpanzee tracking
   Chimpanzees are the other exciting primates after the gorillas. The chimpanzees are also closer to human beings and research shows they share 99% DNA with human beings. The chimpanzees live in Forests and feed on leaves, fruits, insects and even fresh! In Rwanda, the chimpanzees live in Nyungwe Forest National park which is located in Southern Rwanda bordering Burundi. The forest Covers over 1000 square kilometers and is one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rain forests and Africa’s oldest ever green forest, Apart from the chimpanzees, Nyungwe Forest national park is a home to other 12 primate species including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons, blue hoerst monkeys.. The forest is also a birder’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal.

3. Colobus monkey tracking
   Like chimpanzee tracking, colobus monkey tracking is done in Nyungwe forest national park. Colobus monkeys are also one of the rare monkey species and most of the world’s remaining colobus monkeys can be found in the forest. This therefore makes colobus monkey tracking in Rwanda one of the most exciting adventures.

4. Forest Canopy walk
   This is done in Nyungwe Forest National Park as well. Scenic as it is, the canopy was constructed on top of the forest and the walk on this platform offers a great opportunity to explore the entire Nyungwe forest from top. This offers an opportunity for close eye level contact with the birds, see the waterfalls in Nyungwe Forest. Nyungwe Forest canopy walk is one of the exciting forest canopy walks in Africa.

5. Bird watching is one of the thought after tourist attractions in the world. Among the world’s birding spots is Rwanda. Rwanda has 728 bird species 29 of which are endemic to montane rain forest and Rift Valley of which Rwanda forms part. Birding is done in Nyungwe Forest National park, Volcanoes National park, Akagera forest National park, Congo Nile trail among others.

6. Golden Monkey Tracking
   Golden monkeys are endangered monkey specie only found in the virunga mountain ranges with many monkeys living in Volcanoes national park in Rwanda. The golden monkeys live in groups of 30 members and above and feed on leaves, stem and fruits and sometimes insects. These monkeys are so playful and interesting to watch. Golden monkey tracking in volcanoes national park in Rwanda therefore makes it an interesting tourist activity.

7. Cultural walks
   Rwanda has a unique culture that is so entertaining. There is also many cultural heritages to visit which includes the national museum in Butare, Nyanza palace, the Belgium museum, the intore cultural dancers. There are Batwa in Rwanda who have a unique tradition and learning about their way of life is interesting.

8. Historical and educational tours
   Rwanda is a country of history ranging. Rwanda’s genocide is one of the historic genocides in the world and may tourists will come to learn about history of mankind which includes conflict and conflict resolution. There are several genocide memorials set up across the country which include Gisozi memorial museum, Nyamata church, Ntarama church, Murambi genocide memorial among others. When you visit these sites, one will learn more about the effects of human conflicts. There is also Dian Fossey grave site in volcanoes national park and tourists always hike to her grave site to pay her respect and also learn more about her historic work of conserving the lives of the mountain gorillas which were under threat from poachers and she was assassinated as a result of her noble effort.

9. Rwanda has three volcanic mountains that form part of the Virunga mountain ranges. These include Mt.Karisimbi, Mt.Bisoke, Mt.Muhabura. These mountains are all scenic in their nature and for hiking adventure lovers, these are a must hike. The crater lake on top of Mt.Bisoke is so fascinating and hiking Mt.Bisoke can be done in a day. Mt.Karisimbi can be hiked with in two days and the hike to Mt.Muhabura.

10. Game drive and boat cruise
    Like most African countries are famous for, Rwanda has one of the most scenic savanna park. Akagera National Park located in the eastern part of Rwanda forms part of Rwanda’s flat land with great savanna. The park has various game that include Zebras, lion, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, impalas, bush bucks which are best seen during game drive. Other game includes hippos, crocodiles which are seen during a boat cruise on Lake Ihema which is within the park.

There are a million reasons why we stand out from a thousand car rental companies that are widely distributed in and around Rwanda. Renting a car from Self Drive Rwanda gets you opportunity to book your dream car online while you sit back home one good reason why we feature among a few exceptional and the most preferred car rental companies in Rwanda. Booking a car online allows you reserve that one comfortable safari car and upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are handed over the keys or depending on the agreed area of pick up and you start your road trip to your dream destination in Rwanda. Reserving a car with us online enables you avoid the waiting queues and crowds on public transportation.

Our car rental services meet travelers’ needs no matter which class you belong or the kind of safari you intend to embark. We cover all travelers’ demands whether you plan to set off on a family trip, self-drive tour, guided safaris or as a group, business and conference. We have wide range of cars to rent in Rwanda for your self-drive tour and they include Toyota Rav4, Safari Land Cruiser, Land Cruiser TZ, Super custom, Land Cruiser Hard Top, Toyota Land Cruiser,

Renting a car with us means you get value for your money and above all, we rate among a few car rentals in Rwanda with exceptional customer care service one trait that has positioned us in car hire market as one of the best car rental companies. When it comes to customer care service, we are the best and that is why you need to be part of this. Plan your trip with us and we shall get you out of that stressful journey of planning for a safari in Rwanda. By booking a car from us before setting off for actual trip in Rwanda means you will be presented that dream car for your road trip up on arrival or at agreed point of pick up. In other words, you won’t have any stress of how you shall connect from the airport to a hotel or destination in Rwanda.

With many car rental companies that are distributed in and around Rwanda plus other transport options that take travelers around Kigali as well as other tourist sites, we are a unique car hire agency with good reputation a good reason we have kept in the car rental market for that long. We are registered and this means we are a recognized car rental company, trust worthy a reason you need not to miss our excellent services while on Rwanda safari. Renting a car with us gets you a great opportunity to explore different parts, tourist sites including genocide sites, national parks as well as take part in mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching to mention but a few.

For long, we have featured as the most credible car rental agency in Rwanda that gets you a chance to explore the hidden treasures of this magical destination on self-drive or guided tours. Our exceptional four wheel drive safari cars are very comfortable and favorable for all kinds of terrains. Rent a car and driver from us and we take you through magical encounters with mountain gorillas, golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park or catch a glimpse at the big five game in Akagera National Park which is the only savanna park in Rwanda. We also take you through Kigali city tour to explore different tourist sites at pocket friendly price.

Other Reasons include;

• Flexible pick up and drop off
• Full insurance
• 24 hour assistance-so do not worry in case of car breakdown or recovery
• Tour experts-our driver guides are very experienced, knowledgeable and they will avail you that information you need while on holiday in Rwanda.
• Rent your dream car at a pocket friendly price
• Our car rentals are well serviced

Way back people would find it very difficult to travel around Rwanda due to the unreliable and inconvenient means of transport that only existed that time. However, trends have changed as there is a new trending travel options in the country that is car rental. Most Rwanda car rentals are being used by very many people around who wish to tour around Rwanda for city tours, gorilla tours, wildlife, family vacations and business and political engagements.

Car rentals in Rwanda have become famous and popular due to their convenient, safe and reliable services that are exclusively offered to the various customers. It is easy to get a car for hire for your travels in Rwanda. Here are the various reasons why people have turned to car rentals;

1. Car rentals present incredible services as they offer wide range of services to their esteem customers. For example they engage in Kigali airport transfers, city tours, family vacations, self drive in Rwanda, honey moon and wedding ceremonies business and political meeting transfer. Any customer in need to use a car for any purpose they are at your service.  Furthermore one is transported in a well conditioned and nice looking car thus traveling in style.

2. They are so fast while offering their services as one is immediately picked at any station like airport he might be then take to his/her preferred destination or hotel in time. There is no queuing up and waiting for the vehicle to take you. It is always in time and you are the only passenger in the car.

3. They are always available 24/7 as they operate 24 hours in a day. You can use them at any time of the day and in any particular place whether remote or urban. So those people taking up gorilla safaris in Rwanda and airport transfer, car rentals is the best traveling option.

4. Car rentals are flexible in the way they offer their services. If a traveler would wish to change his/her travel time, he/she can do that without any inconvenience and no extra cost so long as it is still in line with your reservation time.

5. They also offer independence to their customers as the traveler is the only passenger in the car hire. He/she is free to do whatever he/she likes at any time while traveling. For example the traveler can communicate and also read news on his tablet or phone in the car.

When you happen to travel to Rwanda, do not think of any other transport means other than the car rentals.

A word that describes mountain gorilla tracking is very hard to find, meeting these giants in their natural habitat is a life time experience. Many tourist activities have been done on any safari in the world but a magical encounter with the rare mountain gorillas is of its kind and it’s a real adventurous activity. These rare species are only found in Africa and they can be tracked only in Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, however Rwanda is known as the leading mountain gorilla safaris destination in the world almost a half of the world’s population live in the Volcanoes national park about 380 out of 1000 live only in this park and Rwanda’s mountain gorilla are a bit easy to track when you compare them to gorillas of Bwindi and Congo, however this is not a guarantee since their wild animals their difficult to predict meeting them may go from 1-8 hours searching them so reasonable degree of fitness is very necessary , don’t forget gorilla tracking gears like sturdy pair of walking shoes/boots, rain jacket, gloves, walking, long sleeved shirts or blouses.

Tracking these giants begins after reporting at the park headquarters in t Kining to receive a short briefing about the rules and regulation when you meet gorillas and also to get assigned to the group booked for. Then after you escort the ranger guide to the forest to begin the activity possibly the most interesting activity done on earth. When you meet these giants you are strictly allowed one hour while observing their behaviors as well as taking photos. Rwanda has 12 habituated gorilla families (habituated means they are used to short visits by humans.) 10 gorilla families are ready for tracking and the two are used for research purpose. In each gorilla family 8 members are only allowed to track meaning that 80 people track gorillas every day.

Mountain gorilla facts

Mountain gorillas are known as the third closest relative of man after chimpanzee who shares almost 98% of human genes; gorillas are considered the largest member of the great ape family weighing up to 470 pounds and reach six feet in weigh (an adult male silverback which age from 12 and above.

Mountain gorillas live in family group which consists of 6-35 members and the group is led by a dominant silverback( called silverback because of the grey hair that develop on its back), the silverback is responsible for any activity which takes place in the group including where to feed, sleep, and also defending the group among others. Other members in a family include few subordinate males (black backs) and multiple females and kids.

Mountain gorillas majorly feed on leaves, plants, fruits, aunts and they rarely drink water since most of the food they eat contains too much water.

Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Mountain Gorilla tracking is worth the money paid for this activity, permits cost US$1500 per person per tracking including park entry fee and a ranger. Many travelers in the world can’t wait to go for this magical experience, a one to two days spend with gorillas in their natural environment is a life time experience difficult to forget. Be part of the experience, book with us for any gorilla safari to Rwanda at a very friendly price welcome in advance.