FROM THE FIELD WITH PAUL HAWLEY: An Exclusive Safari Destination

The pristine and progressive city of Kigali is your first stop, your gateway to Rwanda. It would be easy to disregard it as solely somewhere for a short overnight stay, but to bypass the city’s contemporary art scene and vibrant food culture would be a huge mistake. Spend a few days here exploring the modern galleries and indulging in the many restaurants before setting off to discover Rwanda’s wilderness.


From the Field

'You could easily spend three days in Kigali, a simply phenomenal city that surprised me in many ways. Perfectly clean, there was not a piece of litter to be seen anywhere. It’s a forward-thinking city with a strong sense of community. Once a month residents take the day off to work on community projects together - building schools, cleaning the streets or whatever needs to be done!'

Paul Hawley, Head of Safari Design


Where to stay: Villa Kigali

This luxurious four bedroom property, will be exclusively yours for your time in the city. There’s a strong emphasis on food here - innovative chefs create artfully plated dishes that not only look incredible, but delight the taste buds too. When you’re not exploring Kigali, take a dip in the outdoor pool or relax in the spa - the superb team here will look after your every need.

A remarkable conservation success story, Akagera had virtually no wildlife just eight years ago. Today, thanks to successful relocation programmes, it’s home to 12,000 animals. and you can now enjoy varied wildlife sightings including elephant, rhino, plains game, warthog and crocodile. For the very best sightings, take a boat safari and watch as the animals congregate at the edges of the park’s many lakes to quench their thirst.


From the Field

'Despite being an up and coming park, wildlife is plentiful, birdlife in particular. Many of the creatures, especially the black rhino, aren’t as skittish as in other areas and so you can get up close and take some great photos. For dramatic landscape or sunset photo opportunities, take a drive up on to the ridges of the majestic hills that surround the glorious savannah.'

Paul Hawley, Head of Safari Design


Where to Stay: Magashi Camp

Flawlessly combining luxury and authenticity, Magashi Camp promises a sumptuous stay on the shores of Lake Rwanyakazinga. Eight tented suites with decks overlook the tranquil lake, offering beautifully scenic views and game-viewing right on your doorstep. You’ll be staying on an exclusive concession, which you can enjoy in complete privacy. We recommend visiting African Parks HQ too, where you can learn all about Akagera’s fascinating transformation.

Of the country’s ‘thousand hills’, the misty, moody, cloud-shrouded peaks of Volcanoes National Park are likely Rwanda’s most well-known. To trek through the rainforest and find a family of mountain gorilla is a breath-taking experience. Watch them up close, interacting and eating often within a few yards of you. The next day, head out in search of the golden monkeys that also live in the park. Incredibly habituated, these creatures are fascinating and comical in equal measure.


From the Field

'Gorilla trekking was a mind-blowing experience - nothing short of incredible. One minute you’re in the thick bush, standing next to a gorilla, the next you’re rounding a corner, looking out over the crater at gorilla (including a silverback!) high up in the trees! I recommend spending a couple of nights on the slopes of the hills at Bisate before some time on the plains at Singita, for two different perspectives.'

Paul Hawley, Head of Safari Design


Where to stay: Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita properties are known for their elevated levels of luxury and this sprawling, opulent lodge is no exception. Set on the flat plains of the park, the lodge features floor-to-ceiling windows that provide you with spectacular views looking up at the imposing volcanoes. For the ultimate exclusive experience, stay in Kataza House. This private four bedroom property is so vast it feels like you have your very own safari lodge.

Vast and atmospheric, this is one of Africa’s oldest forests, alive with a huge array of creatures including 13 different primates and over 200 bird species, alongside many mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Specialist guided walks will immerse you in the sights and sounds of the forest. For a new perspective, walk the 60m high trail and look down into the treetops, the canopy stretched out beneath your feet.


Where to stay: One&Only Nyungwe

Your trek to find chimpanzees isn’t guaranteed to be easy, but your patience and hard work is rewarded when you spot them playfully swinging through the trees with impressive ease. Come evening you can sink into a hot bath at One&Only Nyungwe House, the rainforest laid out before you. The treetop rooms and suites of this lodge are a serene sanctuary in this untamed wilderness.

Don’t skip the capital city, Kigali

Kigali is a thriving, bustling city brimming with art and culture. We recommend spending two or three nights here to allow time to experience the many museums, galleries and restaurants the city has to offer.

Getting around
You have two options for travelling within Rwanda: by road or by helicopter. A helicopter, of course, will mean journeys are far shorter, giving you more time at your destination. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes from the skies.

Gorilla and Chimp Permits
Permits to trek to see the mountain gorilla are limited and in high demand. We recommend speaking with our team to arrange your trip to Rwanda at least 12 months in advance to avoid disappointment.