Kigali & Volcanoes National Park: Gorilla Trekking Experience

Rwanda is often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills” and its capital city is no exception. Kigali is a region of rolling hills, valleys, ridges, and steep slopes. It enjoys a temperate tropical highland climate, a bit cooler than typical due to its high elevation. Average daily temperatures range between 15 - 27C (59 - 81F) and don’t fluctuate much throughout the year. Farmland comprises over 60% of the land within the city’s boundaries, mostly in outer areas surrounding the urban centre and, like the rest of the country, most of the agriculture is small subsistence farming.

As in all of Rwanda, the last Saturday of each month in Kigali is a morning of mandatory community service called Umuganda. One person per household between the ages of 18 and 65 is expected to carry out community tasks such as cleaning streets or building homes for vulnerable people. Most normal services close down during Umuganda, and public transportation is limited. Rwandese take great pride in this national service and in the ritual of coming together to support one another, and their commitment shows.

Local people are very friendly and often willing to share the country’s history of genocide with visitors. The Kigali Genocide Museum is well done and worth a visit for those looking to understand the events leading up to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. There is also a flourishing local art scene with many new galleries opening up.

On an enchanting boulevard in the heart of Kigali, Kigali Serena Hotel stands as a serene escape just five minutes from the bustling central business district. With its perfect blend of Rwandan heritage, art, and culture, the hotel offers a distinctly luxurious experience in 148 sophisticated rooms and suites. Recognized for exceptional service, the Kigali Serena Hotel is a preferred retreat for international diplomats, executives, and discerning travellers seeking refined comfort and privacy in a vibrant urban setting.

Activities & Highlights
Kigali Serena Hotel captures the essence of Rwandan luxury, offering an array of amenities to enrich every stay. Guests can unwind by a tropically landscaped swimming pool or rejuvenate at the Maisha Spa and Health Club, which features a sauna, steam room, and juice bar. The hotel’s restaurants serve international and Rwandan cuisine, enhancing the cultural experience with flavours crafted to perfection. Concierge services and babysitting on request ensure that every guest’s needs are met.

Accommodation
Each of the 148 rooms and suites at Kigali Serena Hotel is appointed with a refined African aesthetic, blending upscale furnishings with modern five-star amenities. Deluxe Rooms, ranging from 25 to 30 square meters, offer quiet sophistication, ideal for leisure stays. Thoughtful in-room amenities include flat-screen satellite TVs, minibars, tea and coffee making facilities, and complimentary Wifi. For added convenience, interconnecting rooms and baby cots are available upon request.

Volcanoes National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. This remarkable park is most renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, making it one of the most sought-after ecotourism destinations on the planet. As the place where Dian Fossey conducted her groundbreaking research, it offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Beyond its famous gorilla inhabitants, Volcanoes National Park also serves as a crucial centre for conservation efforts. The park’s rangers and researchers work tirelessly to protect not only gorillas but also other endangered species like golden monkeys. Visitors can witness the fruits of these conservation efforts as they explore the lush forests and volcanic landscapes. Every trek through the park is an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing conservation and research projects aimed at preserving Rwanda’s precious biodiversity.

The park’s stunning natural beauty extends far beyond its wildlife. With a backdrop of towering volcanoes, lush bamboo forests, and rolling hills, Volcanoes National Park offers a breathtaking setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and trekking trails wind through this remarkable terrain, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the dramatic landscape and the chance to encounter a wealth of wildlife, both large and small.

Volcanoes National Park isn’t just about nature; it’s also a gateway to Rwanda’s rich culture. The park is surrounded by vibrant local communities, and visitors can engage in immersive cultural experiences. Whether it’s a visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village or simply interacting with local people, you’ll find a warm welcome that enhances your understanding of the fascinating Rwandan way of life.

Set just a short 15-minute drive from the entrance of Volcanoes National Park, Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel offers an ideal base for guests looking to experience Rwanda's famous mountain gorilla treks. Surrounded by spectacular views of the volcanoes and lush countryside, the hotel provides a serene and comfortable retreat, perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.

Activities & Highlights
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, exploring the misty forests and lush landscape of Volcanoes National Park. For those looking to discover Rwanda in a unique way, guests can rent bicycles and tour the area, or take a peaceful canoe ride through the rolling hills of the countryside. Adventurers can also spot the playful golden monkeys as they leap through the bamboo forests. Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel is open year-round, welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy breathtaking views, abundant nature, and authentic Rwandan hospitality.

Accommodation
Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel features eight spacious Deluxe Rooms, a Family Suite, and the exclusive Volcano Manor, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, patios, and ample space for unwinding after a day in the park. Each Deluxe Room offers a king-size bed or twin beds, an en-suite bathroom, and a separate changing area for added comfort. Rooms are stocked with mini-bars and tea/coffee-making facilities. The hotel also provides a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, lounge, swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens complete with a large fire pit and seating area.