combo	reviews
combo	"I had an excellent experience with Rwanda EcoTours!
combo	I went on a 3-week long trip with friends and colleagues in May-June 2022 and it was absolutely the experience of a lifetime.
combo	Our guide, Yasin, was the kindest, most thoughtful, and most knowledgeable guide I have had in my 7 years of experience working and traveling in Africa.
combo	His passion and joy for his job really made the experience outstanding.
combo	Our trip included a visit to the gorillas in Volcanoes NP, of course, but we also were able to see many other beautiful sites around the country.
combo	Akagera was a highlight for a classic safari experience, with excellent wetlands that made for great birding.
combo	The camping sites in the park were well equipped, and we enjoyed making meals over the campfire together!
combo	Gishwati Forest of Hope is a small forest site, but I would argue a not-miss place to visit: the accommodations were beautiful and tranquil.
combo	We really felt like we were experiencing a private excursion.
combo	I would have loved to stay longer and learn more about the ongoing reforestation projects in the area!
combo	The food was excellent.
combo	My personal favorite site was Nyungwe National Park.
combo	We had an excellent experience seeing chimps and black and white colobus monkeys, plus going on birding excursions in the park.
combo	If you'd like to go birding, ask to have Clavert as your guide, you won't regret it!
combo	He is exceptional, so incredibly kind, and loves sharing his knowledge.
combo	Finally, Rwanda EcoTours organized several meetings and activities for us in Kigali, which absolutely made the time we spent in the city richer and allowed us to eat food, find markets, and visit places that we might not have otherwise been able to.
combo	Overall, I cannot recommend Rwanda EcoTours enough!!!
combo	Their ability to organize the trip based on our individual interests and needs was exceptional, and they took wonderful care of us the entire time we were on our trip.
combo	Murakoze cyane and hope to see you again <3"
combo	"We had an amazing trip to Rwanda organized by Moses.
combo	We’ve been having a long email conversation prior the trip where Moses took into account all our wishes, was very patient and organized everything the way was comfortable for us.
combo	Steven was our guide for two weeks and he is just perfect!
combo	He organized everything in a moment we wanted to add/ change in our itinerary, we made some fun during that time, he took care of all the permissions/ check ins etc.
combo	it was our big pleasure and luck to have him as a guide.
combo	Just imagine- for two weeks you explore the country, do all possible activities and you don’t have to do anything yourself or worry about something.
combo	This is called a vacation!
combo	Rwanda is amazingly beautiful and interesting.
combo	Very recommend this tour agency, our guide Steven and visit Rwanda.
combo	Thank you so much for everything!"
combo	"My husband and me decided to visit Rwanda on August 2020 (it was very difficult time of Covid19).
combo	From the moment We received the reply to our first email to Eco Tours We felt 100% comfortable, as we could tell this company has been organizing tours for a very long time.
combo	Replies to emails were fast and comprehensive, and changes to itineraries were handled with ease.
combo	It was so difficult to organize our tour because many hotels were closed because of Covid situation and did not accept guests.
combo	We changed our plans several times and finally found the optimal solution for us.
combo	Moses organized a premium (luxury) tour with visit of Kigali, Volcano National Park, Akagera Park and domestic flight.
combo	From the first day in Rwanda, when we have met our driver who was supposed to accompany us every day, we felt comfortable with him.
combo	Our main guide and driver, Stiven, is an amazing person, incredibly friendly and very funny.
combo	Every day we enjoyed our trip with him, with many a discussion about Rwanda culture and traditions.
combo	He was never even a minute late.
combo	Always fresh and cheerful in the morning and beautifully dressed.
combo	And with a smile on his face.
combo	We were sorry to say good bye to Stiven when the time came to drop us off at the airport.
combo	I hope that someday we’ll have another opportunity to visit Rwanda again – we’d love to do some hiking in the Virunga and Nungwe mountains, and sure, visit the Big Gorillas and other monkeys.
combo	So, I want to say; you cannot go wrong with Eco Tours – this is a highly professional but friendly company who go the extra mile to make sure you have an amazing experience in this beautiful and green country Rwanda."
combo	"Last year, my sister booked travel in Rwanda and Uganda with Eco Tours Rwanda and worked with Moses Konde.
combo	She liked him so much that she contacted him when she and I were planning a safari in Tanzania.
combo	Now I see why she wanted to work this him and his company again.
combo	What a great experience!
combo	Moses was so thorough and helpful.
combo	He kept in contact with us through every step of the process.
combo	He worked diligently with us and his partner in Tanzania to implement any changes in the itinerary that we wanted to make.
combo	He provided a detailed and accurate itinerary and invoice.
combo	He was also very helpful with visa and COVID requirements for Tanzania.
combo	The safari itself was a fantastic trip of a lifetime.
combo	No surprises.
combo	The hotel and airport transfers all went smoothly.
combo	We stayed in one very nice traditional hotel in Arusha for the first couple of days and then in very comfortable camps in the Tanzanian national parks for the rest of the time .
combo	It was essentially two and a half weeks of glamping at Tortilis and Foxes camps).
combo	The staff was so friendly and welcoming everywhere we stayed.
combo	Just to illustrate how dedicated Moses is, he came on the trip with us just to gain first hand knowledge of the tour so he could provide his personal experience to future clients.
combo	In short, I have only positive things to say about EcoTours Rwanda and Moses.
combo	I can recommend them without any reservation.
combo	If I ever plan to return to East Africa, I will certainly be contacting them again.
combo	Thanks again, Moses, for all your help and a fantastic experience!"
combo	"I had a great 12 day tour of Rwanda.
combo	I visited Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe, Lake Kivu, and Akagera.
combo	The wildlife experiences were exceptional and well worth the permit fees.
combo	I saw gorillas, chimpanzees, different species of monkeys, elephants, giraffes, zebras, a variety of antelope species, hippos, and leopards.
combo	Innocent was a conscientious driver with lots of local knowledge.
combo	He attempted to teach me a few phrases in Kinyarwanda to help when greeting locals, especially children who were very excited to wave at our car.
combo	Rwanda is a safe country for travelers.
combo	A SIM card for the trip cost about $10 at MTN.
combo	Make sure that you check all of the Covid-19 requirements as the country currently is mandating all travelers register online before entering.
combo	Be prepared for repeated testing while traveling throughout the country, especially if you plan to do any gorilla or chimpanzee trekking (which I recommend).
combo	The tour was well organized, and Moses was accommodating with changes to my travel schedule.
combo	My only suggestion would be more upfront information on tipping customs as it was sometimes unclear who should be tipped and how much, especially at the parks.
combo	All in all, it was a wonderful trip that I would recommend for anyone interested in East African wildlife."
combo	"I spent three weeks holidays in Rwanda and Uganda and was very late when I decided to hire a tour guide with a car.
combo	Moses was very responsive from the very beginning and made helpful suggestions to my planned itinerary.
combo	He convinced me that a Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof would be more enjoyable than a RAV4 and offered it to me for the same price (which I considered fair).
combo	Transferring some of the money upfront to Uganda was easily possible without any major doubts or worries.
combo	Moses and Emma, my guide and driver, then picked me up at the hotel in Kigali.
combo	Moses even travelled all the way from Kampala to Kigali just to meet in person and to discuss the itinerary!
combo	On our tour through Rwanda and Uganda, Emma demonstrated the same level of commitment, explained me about the countries, showed me many beautiful sites and kept me company.
combo	He was very reliable, punctual and always strived to fulfil my wishes.
combo	During the game drives in the Queen Elizabeth and the Murchison Falls National Parks, Emma found many animals and shared his extensive knowledge about their behaviour and their role in the ecosystem.
combo	In summary, it was a fantastic three-week tour and I would not hesitate hiring Moses and Emma for another tour in the future!
combo	Rwanda and Uganda are wonderful countries and EcoTours Rwanda makes you fully enjoy this adventure."
combo	We booked gorilla Trekking with Ecotours and had an awesome and unique experience.
combo	Our guides were very friendly and always listening to our needs.
combo	The organization ahead of the trip was very smooth too.
combo	Can only recommend
combo	"I was initially nervous about booking this company, as I'm a solo female traveler and other companies had more reviews.
combo	However, I couldn't be more happy to have chosen them!
combo	Moses was great before I arrived, providing information, receipts, and answering all of my questions.
combo	When I arrived, my tour guide Emma took total care of me.
combo	I did a 3-day gorilla trek in Uganda.
combo	He picked me up in Kigali and stayed with me the entire time until he dropped me back off.
combo	The trek itself was amazing, and the lodge we stayed at the night before, Bakiga Lodge, was perfect!
combo	I only wish I had more time to spend there!
combo	I'm so thankful that Emma made sure I was safe, comfortable, and also had a once in a lifetime experience!
combo	Would recommend them for anyone looking for a personalized, special experience."
combo	"Simply put, our honeymoon through parts of Rwanda and Uganda was an unforgettable and amazing experience, facilitated superbly by EcoTours Rwanda.
combo	For reference, we completed a 4d/3n trip which included 1 day for gorillas (Bwindi), 1 day for golden monkeys and 1 day at Lake Bunyonyi.
combo	However, this review is for EcoTours, not explicitly for the individual activities, but, make no mistake: all 3 activities were special and life-changing in their own way and we would recommend all of them to anyone.
combo	We completed the gorilla trekking in Uganda simply due to permit costs.
combo	EcoTours, run by the very friendly and very competent Moses, was terrific.
combo	This was my first time to Africa (second for wife), so we had a few nerves while preparing, including wiring large sums of money to an African bank account.
combo	However, Moses was there every step of way.
combo	He was very helpful, polite and responsive and informed me immediately upon the funds arriving.
combo	Moses did every right to put us at ease and arrange an amazing trip.
combo	The accommodations he arranged for us were amazing (Rushunga Gorilla Lodge, Kisoro Travellers Hotel and especially Arcadia Cottages).
combo	Food was terrific throughout (my wife is veggie; no issues anywhere).
combo	Our guide, Emma, was also everything we needed in a guide.
combo	Equal parts professional, good driver and casual/friendly.
combo	We were always on time; always felt safe; and every minute was an exhilarating life experience in these two beautiful countries.
combo	We can't recommend visiting Rwanda/Uganda enough, and wholeheartedly recommend EcoTours to arrange your details."
combo	"Moses was great from the start when I was trying to arrange a group booking to see the Gorilla trek back in March.
combo	Communication was done through email and he made sure we had all the information that we needed.
combo	Transferring the money was scary but Moses kept in contact and told me when they had received it.
combo	Once in Rwanda, Moses kept in contact through mobile and visited the hotel the night before to explain what would happen on the trek day.
combo	The Gorillas were amazing and by organising it through EcoTours Rwanda it took all the stress out of it - Moses arranged guides, food and a trip to the slightly surreal cultural village - an excellent experience - thank you so much!"
combo	"I visited Rwanda in March and booked a 3-day trip with EcoTours Rwanda (1-day gorilla tracking and 2 day volcano hike in DRC).
combo	Moses was very responsive and always replied very quickly on every question I had.
combo	Part of the fee needs to be transferred up-front via bank transfer (payment for permits, visa...) and although it took a while before the money arrived (and a bank transfer is quite expensive), this transfer in the end took place without any real issues.
combo	Concerning the tours themselves, I was happy with the arrangements and they way things were done 'in the field'.
combo	Both gorilla tracking as well as Nyiragongo hike were two adventures I'll never forget.
combo	A satisfied customer!"
combo	"I spent 4 days in Uganda and Rwanda, and thanks to Moses and Emma, it was just spectacularly memorable, well-planned and just a complete joy.
combo	Moses was SO responsive so quickly on email for all my (often repetitive!
combo	questions.
combo	Emma is a blast and very knowledgeable about everything - gorillas, monkeys, people...and Arsenal Football Club!
combo	These are really good people, and you can't go wrong with them.
combo	I couldn't have been happier!"
combo	"I admit I did a poor job of planning my trip.
combo	I was already in Kigali for work and a friend put me in touch with Moses because I said on a whim that i wanted to go see the Gorillas.
combo	Moses, with infinite patience and professionalism, guided me through the process.
combo	He made they quote, permit-buying, and all the rest of the details very easy.
combo	Despite my best efforts to complicate things, Moses took great care of me and my friends.
combo	Once the trip began it was all I had hoped for and more.
combo	It is easily the most incredible experience one could ask for in Rwanda or Uganda.
combo	I highly recommend Eco Tours for this or any of the other trips you may seek to do."
combo	"Incredible!
combo	Myself and 8 other teachers who had spent a month in Uganda and Rwanda working with local teachers planned this trip as a celebration to the end of our placements.
combo	Moses and his team came highly recommended from previous teacher cohorts, and he did not disappoint.
combo	He was so patient with us when we were trying to organise bookings and payments via WhatsApp and Western Union, and was always happy to answer our questions!
combo	The weekend of was fantastic from the start.
combo	We were collected from Kigali, driven across the border into Uganda, provided with all of our meals from lunchtime on Friday to lunch after our trek.
combo	Moses was a complete gentleman and professional at all times.
combo	Our accommodation at Bukiga Lodge was stunning with breathtaking views.
combo	The trek itself was fairly hard going (but manageable even for those of us with lower fitness levels - get a porter!
combo	but so worth it.
combo	We spent about an hour and a half trekking before we caught up with the gorillas, and spent an hour watching them play, rest, eat and socialise.
combo	I am still blown away that I was less than 5m from a silverback!
combo	I would recommend not just the trek but EcoTours Rwanda 100% to anyone considering visiting East Africa.
combo	I'll certainly be trying to come back in future!"
combo	"My husband and I spent a week touring Rwanda with EcoTours at the end of July-early August.
combo	Moses was responsive and easy to work with, allowing us flexibility in what activities we chose.
combo	I was hesitant about the wire transfer and carrying so much cash to pay the remaining half of the fees, but all went well.
combo	Moses and our driver/guide Baker met us at the Step Town hotel (super nice little place) in Kigali the night before we began our adventure, and we had a briefing.
combo	Baker was always prompt, friendly, a safe driver, helpful, flexible and knowledgeable.
combo	One thing that surprised us is that we got a different guide at each park we went to - I had thought Baker would be our guide throughout.
combo	It also surprised us that we were the only 2 people on our tour, so it was quite personalized.
combo	As for the park guides, I would have asked for someone with more knowledge about birds, since I'm a birder, but other than Nyungwe, our guides were quite good.
combo	Nyungwe is one of the most spectacular places I've been - it is exactly what I imagine a primeval rainforest jungle of Africa would look like.
combo	I wish we'd had more time there and better guides.
combo	I would have skipped the canopy walk and gone on one of the hiking trails to look for more of the incredibly diverse wildlife there and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
combo	Of course, seeing the Mountain gorillas in their native habitat was one of the ultimate highlights of the trip.
combo	We were lucky enough to have Francois, the most senior of all the guides, and was he ever wonderful!
combo	It was fantastic!
combo	The next day seeing the Golden monkeys was also a wonderful treat - the troupe was all around us!
combo	Another highlight there was touring Iby'iwacu Cultural Village, run by ex-poachers - we got another personal tour and were treated like King and Queen (and got to play them too!
combo	), with singing and dancing.
combo	Akagera National Park is also a fantastic place to go.
combo	The lakes and wetlands there are just gorgeous and teeming with wildlife, and the Akagera Game Lodge is a lovely place to stay, even with the crazy Baboons galloping all over the place after dark!
combo	We saw all sorts of the big, charismatic wildlife like elephants, hippos, giraffes, crocs, and many antelope species - and so many cool birds!
combo	And Kigali City is a thriving, thrumming place, great to explore.
combo	A trip to Rwanda is not done without going to the genocide museum.
combo	The world must never forget such horrors, nor repeat them, and Rwanda has achieved a remarkable rise from the ashes in 24 years.
combo	I would recommend EcoTours Rwanda because of Moses' personal touch, responsiveness, flexibility and reasonable pricing.
combo	I can't say enough how stunning this country is, and how friendly and welcoming its people are - it is Africa's gem."
combo	"We spent 4 weeks in East Africa, with 5 days in Rwanda in April 2018.
combo	We usually don't book guided tours when we travel, but were unsure of travelling alone in Rwanda, so decided to book our visit to Rwanda through EcoTours.
combo	Moses from EcoTours gave us the best deal for our 5 day trip compared to all other companies.
combo	He was also very easy to contact and was super responsive, which made booking a breeze.
combo	We were lucky in that we were travelling in the low (long rainy) season, so the fact that we were booking only 2 weeks out from our trip was no drama.
combo	I was really grateful to have read other reviews on this page about the wire transfer of the deposit for the tour.
combo	I did feel anxious about sending $USD to a random bank account, but was assured by the other reviewers on this page, and, it was totally fine in the end.
combo	Moses kept me in the loop with the transfer and when he had received the deposit and also sent me a receipt.
combo	We paid the rest of our tour in $USD cash on arrival to our tour guide.
combo	Our tour consisted of collection from Kigali airport, drive to Nyungwe Forest (stay Gisakura guest house) - Chimpanzee trek and canopy walk, stay at Gisakura again - Nyungwe to Muhabura Hotel - Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla trek, stay again at Muhabura - Back to Kigali (genocide museum) and drop off at the airport.
combo	Planning was super flexible and Moses was happy to accommodate whatever we wanted to do and also advised us as we planned our short 5 day trip.
combo	Rwanda is absolutely one of the most stunning places on earth, I have ever had the privilege of visiting.
combo	Rolling hills, beautiful clean streets, amazingly friendly people and the best chili oil!
combo	There are so many activities and beautiful treks to do, I really wish we had more time in the country.
combo	Even though we were travelling in the rainy season, we were very lucky with the weather and all of our treks were done in the nick of time just before it poured each day!
combo	The Chimpanzee trek was ok.
combo	Though we thoroughly enjoyed the trek itself, we only saw 3 chimps who were way up in tops of trees, so visibility wasn't great.
combo	The canopy walk was spectacular.
combo	We went on an afternoon trek and watched the mist roll into the mountain.
combo	The gorilla trek was the highlight of our entire 4 week trip in East Africa.
combo	Again, because it was low season, there was only one other couple on the trek with us.
combo	Because of this, we were taken to see the closest gorilla family only about an hour walk away (you can trek for up to 4 hours before finding a family in peak season depending on your fitness).
combo	Though the permit was very very expensive, it was worth the experience!
combo	We had an unbelievable time and would absolutely recommend this as a must do!
combo	The only thing that we would have appreciated knowing at the time of booking is that you can drive from Rwanda to Uganda and do the gorilla trek there for much, much cheaper.
combo	We didn't know this was an option until we were in Rwanda and this option could have saved us $1000USD.
combo	While I know that the increase in Rwandan gorilla permits has negatively impacted tourism to the area, and I am glad that we could contribute to the economy given its downward turn due to the increased costs, I would have liked to have had the Uganda option presented upfront.
combo	We stayed in the budget accommodation options.
combo	These were very budget, but we had no problems with them.
combo	Aside from the Gorilla trek being phenomenal, the other thing that made our tour of Rwanda amazing, was our spectacular tour guide Emma.
combo	Emma was so genuine, friendly, chatty, knowledgeable about the country and funny!
combo	He was the best person we met out of our whole 4 week trip.
combo	He is a genuinely lovely person and you can tell he loves showing people his country.
combo	We learned a lot about Rwanda and Uganda from him and really appreciated how open he was with us.
combo	Emma, you are the best!
combo	Hopefully we will see you in Uganda some day!"
combo	"I cannot say enough great things about Eco Tours (Moses and Emma).
combo	I emailed a few different tour companies when my husband and I started to plan for our trip.
combo	Eco Tours stood out because their responses to my initial and very detailed questions were not only prompt, but also very thorough and addressed each question.
combo	Moses was incredibly accommodating.
combo	We wanted to customize the regular 5 or 10 day packages they have on offer, and Moses came up with many different options, pricing, and recommendations based on our needs/requests.
combo	In the end, he was able to come up with the perfect itinerary for us that included 5 days in Rwanda (a Kigali city tour, Gorilla Trekking, Mount Bisoke hike, Golden Monkey tour, etc.
combo	), and we added on another few days in Uganda that included a Kampala city tour and Chimpanzee Sanctuary tour in Entebbe.
combo	We changed our plans a couple of times (changed arrival date, a friend joined our trip, etc.
combo	), and Moses accommodated everything.
combo	Our guide/driver was Emma and he was very friendly, very knowledgeable, and just a nice guy to be around.
combo	He took very good care of us and made sure we felt safe and comfortable.
combo	He looked after every detail to make sure we enjoyed every bit of our trip and made it memorable.
combo	We had a remarkable experience with Eco Tours from beginning to end.
combo	Both Moses and Emma followed up with us even after we got back to the U.S. to make sure we made it home safely.
combo	They are incredible!"
combo	"Two weeks before we were to leave for Madagascar, we cancelled because the Pneumonic Plague broke out there.
combo	So we had two weeks to find an alternate place.
combo	Uganda/Rwanda were always on our list.
combo	Through TripAdvisor, I found Moses and EcoTours as well as several other highly rated outfits.
combo	Given the short timeframe, I was concerned about putting something together.
combo	After quick research, I decided where I wanted to go and asked a handful of companies.
combo	Most replied right away but Moses stood out because he tailored a trip precisely to my requests and was incredibly responses to questions, ideas, changes to our needs.
combo	It was truly and incredible planning experience to get it done - and then the trip with Emma as our guide was terrific.
combo	Every part of the journey was memorable - and Emma made it feel like family.
combo	Flexibility, attention to detail, ideas, suggestion, etc.
combo	were all top notch.
combo	I highly recommend Moses and EcoTours - and Emma as the driver/guide."
combo	"For years and years I have dreamed about being with gorillas in their natural habitat!
combo	My husband and I are forever grateful to EcoTours for making my dream come true, and in the most perfect way!
combo	Prior to our departure we worked via email with Moses, who answered every little question and made all the arrangements for us.
combo	We arrived in Uganda completely prepared and ready to go.
combo	Moses and our driver, Emma, met us at the airport and took the best care of us.
combo	We were briefed daily on what to expect, what to wear, what to bring with us-no worries for the entire 12 day itinerary.
combo	Our amazing adventure included more than the two fantastic gorilla visits.
combo	We trekked with chimps and golden monkeys, we went on game drives and river boat cruises, we saw so many animals and over 70 new species of birds!
combo	It was all so perfect that when the time came for Emma to drop us at the airport in Kigali we felt like we were leaving home and family.
combo	We recommend EcoTours (Nature Adventures African Safaris) completely!
combo	We hope to be return customers, hopefully soon!"
combo	"My friend and I booked our tour with EcoTours Rwanda before leaving the United States.
combo	The booking process involved wiring funds and I must say at first I was someone concerned with the process as I had never wired funds out of the country.
combo	EcoTours kept us informed of the funds transmission; provided receipts for the funds, and kept us in the loop about everything involving the trek.
combo	When we arrived in Africa, everything went smoothly and my friend and I felt that we were in very good hands with our driver, Moses.
combo	The gorilla trek was nothing short of amazing!
combo	It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
combo	It was such a powerful experience to see the gorillas in their natural habitat and to observe them up close.
combo	After gorilla trekking, we went to visit with the Batwa Tribe and that was equally amazing.
combo	EcoTours provided my friend and me a an experience that will be with us for a lifetime!
combo	Thank you EcoTours.
combo	You're the best!"
combo	"WOW!
combo	What can I say but excellent attention, organisation and organisation to detail by Moses.
combo	We had two groups doing treks and both were looked after so well.
combo	The guides were so knowledgeable and considerate to the group abilities.
combo	A hard trek up the Volcanoes mountain but worth it to see amazing gorilla families in their natural habitat.
combo	The experience is one that will be remembered forever in our hearts.
combo	The meal at the lodge was totally amazing too and extremely welcomed after the trek.
combo	A fantastic selection of courses to suit all tastes- delicious.
combo	We were picked up from our hotel and returned safely.
combo	A long but amazing day.
combo	Cannot recommend this enough.
combo	Moses was fantastic at communicating prior to the Trek and ensured everything was in order, a meet up the night before our early start and then great attention on the day.
combo	Thank you for such an amazing experience.
combo	Worth every penny!"
combo	I’ve been to Africa several times and my experience with Ecotours Rwanda has been so fantastic - that I’ve traveled with them twice!
combo	Each trip was absolutely perfect!
combo	They have tours in more countries than Rwanda.
combo	They have shown me Uganda and Tanzania with unsurpassed hospitality and expertise.
combo	Moses Konde pays close attention to your travel needs that you can rest easy knowing that everything will be taken care of and you will have a perfect trip!
combo	"Review of Rwanda Trip – June 2022 Comprehensive Item-by-Item of Itinerary This is a very long review but I suspect if you are reading it, you are serious about this trip.
combo	Trust me, I have done all of the research for you, so buckle up for the best trip we've ever done.
combo	Before I start with the review of ALL parts of trip, here are a couple of important tips: 1.
combo	Bring tons and tons of small (new) bills USD.
combo	20's, 10's, 5's, 1's.
combo	You will use tons for tips everywhere you go.
combo	I never even saw or used RWF (Rwandan francs) the entire trip...just US Dollars!
combo	2.
combo	Bring Gatorade powder for strenuous hikes.
combo	It helps.
combo	I am 58 and in good health but bad knees!
combo	Ok here goes.......... Pre-Trip (Moses) – I have had email contact with Moses beginning in January 2020.
combo	His quick and thorough replies to questions was far superior to any other contact (company) that I reached out to.
combo	Moses was, and has been very professional and has communicated perfectly since the beginning.
combo	We had wired via Western Union a large deposit in 2020 which I was very nervous about, however, Moses gave us a receipt and everything went smoothly.
combo	It was a safe transfer.
combo	If I had not read about this on TripAdvisor I would have been extremely skeptical since this is not done in the US.
combo	Our June 2020 family trip was cancelled due to Covid.
combo	We had 2 years to use the gorilla permits and Moses secured everything for our 2022 trip.
combo	He honored our original deposit and had a fair increase for 2022.
combo	Some of our original hotels were unavailable and booked solid due to the Ellen DeGeneres Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Kinigi (and Kigali) but Moses really worked hard to secure our original itinerary as best as he could.
combo	I have been in email contact with Moses since 2020 and I trust him 100%, as he is very honest and has done every single thing that he has promised.
combo	We all are extremely satisfied with his attention to detail, honesty, promptness, knowledge, communication and professionalism.
combo	He really prepared a trip of a lifetime for us!
combo	He accommodated our every need/want!!!
combo	We loved our cool Land Cruiser vehicle for the week.
combo	It was perfect and roomy.
combo	I feel like he is now a friend who I will reach out to again when we visit East Africa again, and will recommend his services to everyone.
combo	I only wish that I had met him….next time for sure!!!
combo	YOU MOSES FOR EVERYTHING!
combo	ARE EXCELLENT AT YOUR JOB AND A GREAT PERSON!
combo	IT WAS EASY TO WORK WITH YOU!
combo	ARE SO ACCOMMODATING!!!!!
combo	IT WAS MY PLEASURE TO GET TO KNOW YOU!
combo	Steven (Driver/Guide) - Steven went “Above and Beyond” in every detail of our trip.
combo	As a driver and guide, he was knowledgeable, friendly, professional, polite, prompt (never even a minute late), likable and flexible.
combo	He communicated everything perfectly to us every step of the way so we had no questions lingering.
combo	He is an extremely safe driver, we never felt uncomfortable…even with all of those twisty-turny roads!
combo	Not a single negative word to say about his service….only the very BEST!!
combo	Great communicator etc etc etc!
combo	Steven did so many EXTRA things that are so numerous to mention but I will list some: - Upon arrival, I needed to go to a grocery store for personal supplies (and also wine).
combo	He took us to Simba supermarket in Kigali, no problem.
combo	On our drive from Kigali to Nyungwe, we requested to stop at Murambi Genocide Memorial, which was not on the itinerary.
combo	No problem.
combo	Steven always called ahead everywhere we went to assure everything went smoothly.
combo	While in Nyungwe he suggested going on a “Gisakura Tea Plantation and FactoryTour” instead of the Tea evening walk which was on our itinerary.
combo	It was OUTSTANDING and a highlight of our trip.
combo	So happy that he recommended it.
combo	He called our tour guide, Obed, ahead of time and made all of the arrangements.
combo	While on our 1 hour Colobus tour, he called our guide in the field to see if we had seen any colobus.
combo	It was not ideal viewing so Steven told the guide to stay until we got to see Colobus and get good photos!
combo	That was such a lovely thing to do and extremely kind.
combo	On a drive in Nyungwe we had seen many monkeys on the side and he stopped the car and gave us all the time we wanted to photograph them.
combo	Additionally, he always asked if we wanted to stop for pictures.
combo	There was a mix-up in communication regarding Covid PCR testing to view primates, so while at Hill Top View Lodge, he, and the receptionist (Allen), both coordinated covid testing by having a Doctor come to the lodge.
combo	The morning that we were supposed to drive from Nyungwe to Kinigi, we requested to leave at 6:30am so that we would have time to visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus which closed at 4:00.
combo	This extra early start time was not expected by Steven.
combo	This activity was extremely important to me.
combo	Steven obliged with no problem.
combo	We made it to The Ellen Campus in plenty of time to tour without being rushed.
combo	By the way, we had known that the ribbon cutting ceremony was occurring in 2 days by Ellen herself, so we knew that we had to get there because the campus was going to be closed to the public.
combo	If we hadn’t gone the day we did, we would not have seen the campus!
combo	Before our drive to Kinigi, Steven had called the 5 Volcanoes Hotel several times to arrange a birthday cake and surprise birthday celebration for our 26 year old daughter.
combo	Her birthday was on our ‘driving day’.
combo	Steven arranged for a beautiful carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and writing that said ‘happy birthday k....’ (the hotel accidentally wrote last name instead of her first name, which was cute).
combo	Arranging this was the most thoughtful and kind gesture by Steven that will be remembered by our family forever.
combo	And appreciated by our family forever!
combo	I asked Steven to stay and celebrate with us, and he did, even though he was very tired himself after a LONG day of driving twisty-turny roads.
combo	This was probably the kindest gesture that anyone has ever offered on any trip we have been on.
combo	Also, he was so cute about it….whispering the details to me ahead of time and giggling with excitement of the surprise to come.
combo	How adorable is that?
combo	<3 By the way, we shared our daughter’s birthday cake with movie star, Winston Duke (Black Panther etc) who was sitting next to us at 5 Volcanoes Hotel!!!
combo	How cool is that?
combo	We were scheduled to go to a cultural village.
combo	We have done this before in other countries (Zimbabwe and Morocco) and said we would never do one again.
combo	It is uncomfortable and exploitative.
combo	I also think it is tacky and touristy (this was the only thing I did not care for on the trip).
combo	I told Steven that we would go but would not participate in watching the dancing etc.
combo	He called ahead and requested this and everything was fine.
combo	We avoided an uncomfortable situation.
combo	I appreciated that!
combo	He was very understanding about it also.
combo	-Steven offered to drive us to the airport in Kigali for our departure.
combo	He did not have to do this, but he did.
combo	He also offered to take us for Covid testing in Kigali, but we later learned that the Heaven Hotel offered this for their guests…..but the point is, Steven offered to take us, on his time.
combo	We can never thank Steven enough.
combo	We are so appreciative!
combo	I am sure you get great reviews like this all of the time for him but I want to convey that he was outstanding!
combo	Like I said, he went “ABOVE AND BEYOND”.
combo	This is not a complete list of extra things that he did for us, as there were many little things that are too numerous to mention.
combo	I only wish I had his email or that he was on facebook, because he is the kind of person I would like to stay in touch with.
combo	Now, I would like to go through each item on itinerary and give praises to certain people who did wonderful jobs and places that we especially thought were OUTSTANDING: HOTELS: Heaven Boutique Hotel – (I give it 5 stars) Excellent Service.
combo	Excellent breakfast.
combo	Excellent everything.
combo	Alvin, at Retreat desk, was outstanding (very outstanding and very helpful).
combo	Queen at the hotel desk was super helpful.
combo	There was another girl at hotel desk who was super helpful when we first arrived but I have forgotten her name, unfortunately.
combo	I am sorry.
combo	This was the best hotel that we stayed at in Rwanda.
combo	So glad that Moses was able to book us here and we paid the extra money to stay here (for an extra room because they did not have a triple available anymore due to Ellen DeGeneres crew and journalists in town for the Ellen Campus ribbon cutting).
combo	It was worth it.
combo	We loved it!!!!
combo	We will be back to this place!
combo	The service and services offered are exceptional.
combo	We got massages and our daughter got a mani/pedi!
combo	Nyungwe Hill Top View Lodge - (I give this 5 stars even though it is a 3 star) This was tied as the BEST and an excellent lodge to stay at.
combo	The two receptionists, Allen and Hortense, could not have been more helpful and sweet!
combo	We just loved them!!!
combo	The best service we have ever had at any lodging ever in our lives (and we’ve traveled a lot).
combo	They both went ‘above and beyond’, to make our stay as perfect as possible.
combo	When we arrived late on our first night, Allen asked for our PCR Covid test.
combo	We did not know that was required for primate viewing.
combo	The airport only offered Antigen test, and we were unaware that primate viewing required PCR testing ) Allen and Steven spoke about this and came up with a plan.
combo	Allen called a local Doctor to come out late at night (at 9PM) to test us.
combo	This is exceptional service which we had never experienced in our lifetimes.
combo	Because of Allen’s phone call, we were able to see the chimps the next morning as planned.
combo	Hortense was also outstanding and incredibly helpful and kind.
combo	Their attention to detail was remarkable.
combo	They work long hours (78/wk) and are always happy, upbeat and smiling!
combo	Both Allen and Hortense felt like family….in fact we are now facebook friends and hope to stay in contact with them.
combo	Very professional, caring, helpful and sweet.
combo	I cannot say enough great things about our stay there.
combo	We will be back.
combo	If there was one thing that was slightly off was the fact that we had to wait so long for our meals to be made when all we wanted to do was go to our rooms.
combo	But saying that sounds so selfish because everything was made to order, so its 100% fresh.
combo	Everything was delicious, so I am reluctant to even mention it.
combo	That said, it was wonderful to have “buffet” dinners.
combo	That was PERFECT!
combo	Other great touches were boot cleaning, fires made in room every night, and hot water bottles in our beds.
combo	The views were outstanding as well.
combo	Wow!
combo	Great great place!
combo	I can’t say enough about this place!!!!!!
combo	Moses, I hope that you can personally call Allen and Hortense to personally thank them for their outstanding service!
combo	Staying here was a highlight of our trip!
combo	Truly a highlight!
combo	We loved loved loved this place.
combo	The best personal attention we have ever received from a hotel/lodge in our lives!
combo	We’ve never ever been treated better….EVER!!!
combo	Gorilla Solutions Lodge – (I give this 4.5 stars because of the outstanding service, even though it is a 3 star).
combo	We loved this place because of Gilbert and Innocent.
combo	These men were so hospitable, so kind, so sweet, so accommodating.
combo	We just loved them!!!
combo	We were the only guests at the entire hotel, and apparently they do not get many guests ever.
combo	Let me say, the hotel needs to be updated, but the 2 men that I have mentioned made up for this.
combo	My 26 year old daughter actually cried at how kind these men were.
combo	If that does not say everything in a nutshell.
combo	Crying because of how sweet Gilbert and Innocent were (we felt so badly that we were their only guests and that they were sooooo sweet and kind to us).
combo	She said that she will stay here next time just to give them the business.
combo	They made our hearts full and I wish them nothing but the best because they are the best.
combo	We have never met nicer people in our lives as we did at Gorilla Solutions and also the Nyungwe Hill Top View Lodge!
combo	We had friends stop by Gorilla Solutions just before our dinner arrived.
combo	They were in town for the big Ellen Degeneres Campus ribbon cutting ceremony.
combo	Gilbert and Innocent were so gracious to them and delayed our meal for hours for us so that we could talk to our friends (our friends had already eaten).
combo	This must have been so inconvenient for them but they never said anything and just smiled and accepted our guests kindly.
combo	The dinner hours were over and our friends were still there and Gilbert and Innocent were as gracious as could be.
combo	They should have been done work but happily stayed on.
combo	By the way, the food here was excellent.
combo	So fresh!!!!!
combo	Fires were made for us by our meal table.
combo	It was so interesting to see that they actually RAN back and forth from the kitchen to our meal table……which endeared them more to us even more, if that is possible.
combo	Moses, I hope that you can call Gilbert and Innocent and convey our appreciation of their kindness and graciousness.
combo	We are so glad that we stayed here.
combo	etc: E-Bis restaurant – (we gave it 5 stars) excellent!
combo	The best beef my husband has had in his life.
combo	Great place to stop on the drive from Kigali to Nyungwe.
combo	I ordered rice and beans (because I miss it) which was not on the menu and it was my best meal of the trip!
combo	Murambi Genocide Memorial – (I gave it 5 stars) I would have preferred to skip the Kigali Genocide Memorial and much preferred to go here instead.
combo	Murambi was truly 1000% more informative than the Kigali.
combo	Our guide, Peter, was so knowledgeable.
combo	He had witnessed the genocide as a young boy, so this was especially emotional for me.
combo	Once again, most people do not visit this memorial, and I would urge you to try to incorporate this place into your itinerary if tourists are going to Nyungwe.…it’s on the way!
combo	The campus is huge, and it is beautiful.
combo	When my daughter signed the book, it looked like there have not been visitors for quite some time, and that is a real shame.
combo	Please research and read about this place, I don’t want to go into detail, but know that it is a more important place to visit.
combo	Very emotional but important.
combo	Moses, perhaps you can add this to the itinerary for future guests, or give them an option.
combo	Nyungwe Forest National Park – (I gave this 5 stars) one of the most beautiful areas/parks that I have ever seen.
combo	We loved loved loved it here.
combo	Southern Rwanda is definitely a gem.
combo	I don’t know why more people don’t head here, its STUNNING and WILD!!!
combo	The wildlife (chimps, colobus etc) landscapes and picturesque panoramas were amazing!
combo	Chimpanzee Trek – Guides, trackers and porters were excellent.
combo	Deborah was our outstanding guide.
combo	My porter was Leon, he was great.
combo	But the VIP of the day was a porter named Irene.
combo	She carried my husbands heavy camera bag without complaint and with a big smile all day.
combo	My daughter did not get a porter but Irene happily helped my daughter the entire trek…AND carried her camera bag!
combo	Irene was the best porter we had the entire trip.
combo	Leon too, for me!
combo	We could not have done it without them.
combo	Irene Irene Irene!!!!!!!!!
combo	She’s the BEST!
combo	The trek was hard for me (the hardest of our trip) but Leon stayed with me and helped me after we broke from the group because I was slow.
combo	One of the trackers stayed with me too.
combo	Deborah was an excellent guide who urged me on after I wanted to turn back.
combo	Know that this is a hard trek (the hardest of our trip) and our porters held our hands......it was hard!
combo	Gisakura Tea Plantation and Factory Tour and tea tasking – (I gave this 5 stars) EXCELLENT EXCELLENT EXCELLENT!!!
combo	Steven recommended this as an add-on option and it was a highlight of our trip.
combo	We are so happy that we did this informative tour.
combo	Obed was our tour guide (Steven called him ahead of time +250 788 908 386) and was an EXCELLENT guide!
combo	I cannot say enough great things about this tour.
combo	Mary was a tea picker that made the plantation tour so fun.
combo	She is so happy and beautiful and photogenic.
combo	The best and most beautiful picture that I took on the entire week vacation was of HER!!!
combo	I wish there was a way to tell her that.
combo	Perhaps you can call Obed so that he can tell her +250 788 908 386.
combo	Obed was the most excellent tour guide that we had on the entire trip!
combo	After walking the tea fields, we went to the tea factory which was incredibly FASCINATING!
combo	We had the most informative tour of our trip.
combo	We had no idea it would be so great.
combo	We did this instead of the evening tea plantation walk that was on the itinerary, and are so glad we did.
combo	Moses, perhaps you can add this to the itinerary.
combo	Colobus Monkey Tour- Sadly I cannot remember the names of our guides.
combo	Ugh!
combo	But they were wonderful.
combo	As said, we were not finding colobus, but they stayed on longer (as Steven had urged them) and finally found a great and photographic troupe of colobus.
combo	The trackers used machetes to cut through the brush to get great photo’s.
combo	How awesome is that?
combo	Canopy Walk – Although it was a difficult hike for me (all steps), and scary on bridge, it was great!
combo	I had been on a canopy walk in Ghana, and this was 100 times better.
combo	This was a worthwhile excursion.
combo	We actually wanted to do some nature hikes but after the strenuous chimp hike the day before and the canopy walk, we could not do anymore hikes.
combo	Lol We felt like we had really seen a great deal of the forest and were 100% satisfied with no need to do a Nature Hike.
combo	Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Fund – After giving a donation, we toured the building.
combo	The 360 degree DiCaprio theater was so worthwhile.
combo	School children will get so much out of this, as will adults.
combo	The interactive VR (virtual reality) exhibit was also very very very cool.
combo	So much information and interactive exhibits.
combo	For anyone who has Dian Fossey as an idol, this is an important stop.
combo	So glad we got to go here.
combo	Gorilla Trek – (I give it 5 stars) Wow!
combo	This did not disappoint.
combo	Our guides were Patience and Jolie, and they were outstanding….very knowledgeable and communicated everything we wanted to know.
combo	I could listen to Patience talk all day long!
combo	We were to see the Agashya gorilla group which was supposed to be an ‘easy hike’ but with animals you never know.
combo	They were on the move and it took much much longer (6 hours total).
combo	By the way, Steven had to wait longer as well and did not seem to mind at all.
combo	Also, I met and talked with Ellen DeGeneres on the trail.
combo	Her group passed our group.
combo	That was very cool!
combo	Our gorilla group, Agashya, of 23 was just relaxing and sleeping, and we saw 15 members of the 23 group……3 silverbacks, 4 babies, 3 juveniles and 5 females..
combo	It was a highlight of my life.
combo	We were so close.
combo	I was very impressed with Volcanoes Park, their procedures and all the safety precautions they take to keep gorillas safe.
combo	The best day of my life!
combo	The only bummer was that we never got our certificate at the end of the day.
combo	I don’t know why.
combo	Cultural Village - (I give it 1 star) Very touristy and tacky.
combo	I would not recommend this activity.
combo	This was the only thing that was a negative on our trip, I would take it out of the itinerary.
combo	It is humiliating for the participants to be on ‘show’.
combo	I feel it is insensitive to watch people in this way.
combo	Golden Monkeys – Super fun monkeys to watch.
combo	We all enjoyed this.
combo	It is a perfect way to start the day and then head to for the drive back to Kigali.
combo	Thank you for reading my very comprehensive and long review.
combo	Thank you for everything Moses and Steven.
combo	I do hope that you can give credit to the fine and wonderful people who I mentioned specifically in my review.
combo	It is important for people to get positive feedback.
combo	We live in a world where the only feedback people get is the negative feedback.
combo	I would like to highlight these people mentioned because they were OUTSTANDING!!!
combo	As our 26 year old daughter says.....“Going on a 2nd trip to see something like the Colosseum in Rome is pointless because it never changes.
combo	But going on a wildlife/nature trip a 2nd time is worthwhile because nature and wildlife is always changing….it's always new!!!""
combo	We will be back.....
combo	Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the trip of a lifetime!
combo	The best!"
combo	"My friend and I booked a trip to Congo (Niyragongo volcano and gorillas in Virunga park, in the East of the country, next to Goma) in October 2019 via Eco Tours Rwanda and were very satisfied with the communication and service provided.
combo	As we could not fly in Goma directly, and more importantly did not find a way get a D.R.C visa from Hong Kong where we are from, we decided to fly to Rwanda and book the trip with a local agency, and found Ecotours Rwanda online.
combo	From the beginning communication with Moses from EcoTours was very good and clear, he answered fast and precisely.
combo	The whole process was smooth and easy.
combo	They came to pick us up at our hotel in Kigali, transferred us to the border where application for our visa had been made, and from there the team from the Virunga part took care of us.
combo	On the way back, they were waiting for us to take us back to our hotel next to the airport.
combo	The service was punctual, the driver was a nice guy, the car was of in good condition, so the service offered by EcoTours was great in my opinion.
combo	It would certainly had been cheaper to book directly with the park and find our way to get to Goma and apply to visa directly but we did not know how to do that and Congo isn't a really smooth place so I am glad we paid for this extra service via EcoTours Rwanda Only bemol: Unlike what the name suggest, Ecotours Rwanda is not a Rwandan company but is part of another agency based in Uganda, so their management and team were from Uganda and bank transfer had to be made there.
combo	Most people would not care about it, but some might given Uganda's policies and human right record.
combo	In our case when we realised it it was too late to change for another agency, so we worked with them and once again the service was really good.
combo	Would definitely recommend them for trips in Rwada/Uganda/East Congo Jerome Lizambard"
combo	"We went to Rwanda in August 2019.
combo	We too late to get permits to visit the gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda so we decided to go to the Virunga Mountains in the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo).
combo	Moses Konde who can organize anything in Rwanda, DRC, Botswana, Zambia and Uganda was amazing.
combo	We organized the Cingo part of trip with him from USA and all was smooth and the financial transaction was easy.
combo	We loved the lodge at Virunga, Kibumba Tented Camp, where we glamped and ate food that rivals excellent restaurants in USA, met and spent time with the amazing staff and rangers then spent an hour with an amazing gorilla family, Cosmos.
combo	We loved our guide and driver, Osbert, from Ecotours so much that we actually felt like he was part of our vacation!!
combo	We ate together, did some hikes, and had many laughs.... he is not only an amazing driver and we always felt confident and taken care of but also has a vast body of knowledge!!
combo	After DRC we decided to continue on with Osbert and went to the Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda with him to see the chimps.
combo	We invited him to come along on our hike and had an excellent time hiking, climbing and sliding up and down mountains (not too hard bc so much fun!!
combo	watching the chimps doing what chimps do.
combo	So we highly recommend calling Moses and working with him to make you vacation amazing!!
combo	+256751915622 or email info@ecotoursrwanda.com Dont forget tips for everyone, their lives are lived to make tourists happy and the salaries are ridiculous...."
combo	Nature Adventure Africa Safaris did a wonderful job organizing and planning my September trip in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Thank you Moses for helping me plan the trip.
combo	Every day my guide Emma was on time and I highly recommend him for anyone doing a safari in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Emma is nice and listens to what you want while touring around.
combo	Both countries were completely safe to travel around.
combo	I did find out they do tours to some of the other African countries and I would not hesitate to use them again.
combo	"Pull up a chair, this may take a while.
combo	Our oldest son put together an amazing 16 day itinerary to Uganda and Rwanda through Moses and Eco Tours.
combo	He showed it to us a year in advance and we thought why not see if the whole family could go.
combo	So even though deposits and licences had already been obtained for one, and our other son and his wife couldn't travel on the exact same schedule, Moses worked out a seventeen day itinerary for 3 of us and a 9 day itinerary for 2 where we all met 8 days into the trip at one of several spectacular lodges we stayed in.
combo	Flexibility, willingness to change schedules, and a nice way of working with people was readily apparent.
combo	Then we met our guide, Emma.
combo	Always on time, always where he said he'd be, interesting, intelligent, great sense of humor, my wife wanted to adopt him.
combo	When we didn't see lions or leopards at one of the parks, he talked to Moses and shared the cost of hiring a tracker, and boy oh boy, did we ever see what we wanted to see!!!
combo	As I said, they are flexible and willing to adjust on the fly.
combo	The trip had it all.
combo	Seeing Chimps, and Rhinos in the wild were at the start, then staying on the banks of the Nile, hiking up a thunderous 150 ft waterfall where the Nile constricted to 23 feet across, seeing hippos, cape buffalo, elephants and huge Nile crocs all within spitting distance was an amazing site.
combo	When the 5 of us met up it was the start of 5 days of tracking gorillas.
combo	I cannot express the thrill the first time we saw a family of 15 interacting with themselves and also us.
combo	From his concern that we bring and drink enough water, to being sure we had enough food in our back packs, Emmas attentiveness was well appreciated, and we could not have been taken care of any better.
combo	Without any hesitation, Go Gorilla with Eco."
combo	Perhaps the best trip we have ever done.
combo	Moses organisational skills and attention to detail were fantastic.
combo	Osbert (who drove us throughout the journey) was so knowledgable and we wanted for nothing.
combo	If you are tho king of using Moses - just do it !
combo	!
combo	"The team at Nature Adventure African Safaris Limited did an amazing job curating and caring for us during our trip to Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Where we were able to see the “super 7”.
combo	We felt safe through out our journey, and enjoyed our time with our guides, Michael and Emma."
combo	"We take once in a lifetime trips every year and this trip to Rwanda/Uganda was one of the top 3 best trips of my lifetime.
combo	Moses and Emma pulled together a perfect experience with well chosen hotels, balanced activities, and a perfect guide.
combo	I strongly recommend Eco Tours and we plan to visit again within the next 2 years."
combo	"A negative COVID test is required to enter the park.
combo	Large park where you can drive your own car and hire a guide.
combo	The big 5 are present but chances of seeing them all are slim.
combo	We saw elephants, zebra, impala, hippo, crocodile....
combo	Still highly recommended."
combo	"Akagera National Park is very pretty and undergoing restoration of the animal population.
combo	We did two half day tours and one full day tour.
combo	Although we did see many animals on one half day tour and the full day tour, our other half day tour was void of any wildlife.
combo	We had a briefing by park rangers and they detailed the return of lions, leopards, and rhinos and some numbers of their populations within the park.
combo	Akagera has a lot of hills and thick vegetation providing lots of cover for the animals.
combo	We did not see any lions, leopards, or rhinos on any of our tours.
combo	We have been on a number a safaris in numerous African countries and the drivers and guides have always coordinated with other tour guides.
combo	In Akagera our driver and guide did not coordinate with anyone else and we missed out on seeing the big draw animals.
combo	Two people in our group of 6 had never been on safari and were left somewhat disappointed.
combo	Akagera will be a great stop once the lions, leopards and rhinos re more easily seen."
combo	"I think the park is too small.
combo	They should bring it back to the original size or even better, connect it to other parks."
combo	An easy day trip from Kigali (although overnight stay will offer more wildlife options).
combo	Well maintained park with numerous sightings of big five and much more.
combo	Strongly suggest using guide(s).
combo	Mine was excellent - Amani Twagiryezu - Happy Trail Tours (www.
combo	happytrailrwanda.com).
combo	He was totally professional and knows his country thoroughly.
combo	"we were hosted by Sibo, from LEGENDARY TOURS RWANDA for this great day trip to Akagera NP.
combo	Our host was so knowledgeable of all the many creatures were encountered.
combo	The park has so many features including lakes, woodlands, green hills so the creatures are in a very unique ecosystem."
combo	"I have been on multiple safaris in South Africa, but this was my first outside of there.
combo	It was an incredibly beautiful park.
combo	Even if there were no animals, the park would definitely have been worth a visit, the animals just made it that much better We had a driver pick us up early in Kigali and drive us to Akagera for an overnight stay and back the next night.
combo	I would NOT recommend driving in Rwanda on your own, better to hire a guide.
combo	The number of people along the roads is intimidating.
combo	We found our guide, Jeanneret Imanishimwe online and he was amazing!
combo	He rented a large SUV (definitely get a big one), and spent from early morning until late the next night for the Akagera trip.
combo	We were there in rainy season, and there were some patches of mud that I am glad I did not have to drive through.
combo	I'm happy to refer him if you need a guide for anywhere in Rwanda We also hired a guide (Phoebe) in the park that drove with us, She was very good, and knew the right roads.
combo	In our one day (left the lodge at 6:30 am and exited the park at 4:30pm) we saw 4 of the Big 5 (didn't see a leopard).
combo	Our best sighting was spending about 45 minutes with 2 white rhinos very near the car.
combo	There wasn't as much diversity of animals compared to South Africa, but the volume and the views made up for that.
combo	We ended the day in a large valley with literally thousands of animals all together: Cape Buffalo, Topi, Impala, Zebras, lions, giraffes, elephants and more.... endless views of animals-- which is how I imagine the Serengeti to be.
combo	We also went on the boat tour in the park which was fantastic!
combo	We saw so many hippos and crocs as well as incredible birds.
combo	We were lucky to see elephants and cape buffalo on the banks of the lake.
combo	We stayed at Ruzizi Lodge which was great (I will leave a separate review there).
combo	If you are in Rwanda, I think two days for an Akagera visit is well worth it."
combo	"Akagera was my first time safari experience and I wasn't disappointed.
combo	Over 3/4 days we saw lions, zebra, hippo, rhinos, leopards, elephant, giraffe and much more - all of the big 5 were ticked off.
combo	The park is small, and I'd thoroughly recommend taking a guide rather than self-drive as you need to know where to go and how to spot the animals, but it was very quiet.
combo	I was expecting lots of cars and a busy atmosphere, but it felt like we had the park to ourselves.
combo	The guides were excellent, full of knowledge - we had Anastas for most of our game drives, ask for him, he is great!
combo	We were worried about the weather going in October, but it was fine and I'm sure a bit quieter than high season, I'd thoroughly recommend this time of the year."
combo	"I visited last Saturday, and I had an amazing time here.
combo	My friend and I got a private taxi from Kigali, and we were at the park in less than 3 hours.
combo	A covid rapid test is required to gain entry to the park.
combo	At the park they only accept card payments for all purchases (we didn't know this before we arrived).
combo	The staff there were friendly and helpful.
combo	We had an amazing tour guide, Jean (I hope I remembered the name correctly) and driver, they answered all our questions.
combo	We saw baboons, impalas, waterbuck antelopes, bufallos, crocodiles (though in the lake), giraffes, zebras, and an elephant.
combo	We didn't see a lion though.
combo	The tour was about 4 hours, but we didn't get to the end of the park.
combo	It's best to go early.
combo	We started our tour a few minutes past 12 noon.
combo	The tour car was rented at the park."
combo	Very good park but difficult to spot animals especially the wild cats.
combo	However the landscape is wonderful with nice lake
combo	It’s a nice enough park but we have done safaris in southern African countries with much better opportunities to see wildlife.
combo	We just didn’t see many animals.
combo	"Today we experienced Akagera NP with Cesar.
combo	Besides he knows a lot of the park, he is a very friendy, nice guy.
combo	Good to be with!
combo	And on top of that, he fixt our car while something came loose 😀.
combo	We sincerely recomment him!!!"
combo	Best experience ever in Rwanda.
combo	Cesar is a very nice and professionnal guide who knows the park very well.
combo	We saw all big 5 in a perfect blue sky day.
combo	"Last week I had a great safari with my family in Akagera.
combo	Cyprian is a great guide.
combo	The organisation was perfect.
combo	He helped us with finding accommodation for the night.
combo	Cyprian is very punctual and can give you a lot of information about the animals in the park.
combo	If you want to go on a trip in Rwanda, I definitely would recommend him!"
combo	"Akagera was amazing.
combo	Each minute is filled with wonderful wildlife, beautiful scenery, and staggering birds.
combo	Every single view is more breathtaking than the last.
combo	Watching the sunset as the animals gathered in the plains in the north of the park was the greatest moment of our whole trip (if you have the time, make sure you spend the night at the Karenge Bush Camp).
combo	Thank you to every staff member!
combo	Everyone was incredible friendly, warm, and welcoming.
combo	Beyond just being able to be among the animals and wilderness, Akagera’s (and all of African Parks members) commitment to preservation of the environment is a cause that any traveler can feel great about supporting."
combo	"Worth the money.
combo	Love the fact that the animals are free to roam around the savanna and are not caged.
combo	We saw most of the animals which was like looking at National Geographic.
combo	It was a long day lots of driving but was worth it.
combo	Can’t wait to take my kids and grandkids.
combo	The only disappointing thing was we did not see the lions.
combo	I suspect it was the time when they were resting ,it was a very warm day."
combo	"Zebras, Hippopotamus, Rhinoceros, Buffalos, Baboons, Giraffes, Elephants, Topis, Rock Climbers, Impalas, Water bucks, Monkeys, Warthogs and numerous burd species were observed in nature and it was a wonder to behold.
combo	We saw three of the big 5 (Buffalo, Rhino & Elephant), as it wasn't a day for the Lions and Leopard.
combo	Definitely a tour that will be recommended for families though with a caveat to ask the tour guide to make it shorter if kids are involved.
combo	The Zebras will definitely have the kids screaming in joy"
combo	"We loved our visit at the Akagera National Park !!
combo	It was our first safari and we were amazed to discover all these wild animals left free in the park.
combo	But the experience would have never been the same without our awesome guide Hermann!!!
combo	He is passionated about his job, has a very good knowledge of the animals and the park, and most of all we had so much fun with him!
combo	So if you dont know who should guide you... dont hesitate and ask for him, you will have an awesome safari experience :) Audrey & Jeroen"
combo	"We opted to take a trip to Akagera on our own and am I glad we did.
combo	One of the tours leaving from Kigali would have been either too fast or uneccesarily marked up.
combo	We rented a Rav 4 and drove there, the drive was lovely with great roads and scenery on the way.
combo	When we got there I discovered that you have to pay to get into the park, even if you are just going to stay at your hotel.
combo	If you want to stay inside the park( and there are plenty of options) as a foreigner you pay $100 the first day and $50 every day after that.
combo	If you want to save that fee, stay off the main road close by.
combo	We got up early next morning and went to the visitors center to pick up our amazing guide Justus.
combo	He drove the car for us so we could focus on spotting the animals, he is super knowledble about the animals and the park, super sweet and nice and takes great pictures.
combo	I really think he is the reason we had such a great game drive and saw so many animals including lions.. twice.
combo	I have been on safari before in Kenya and'Tanzania and I really enjoyed this experiencee because of the calm.
combo	I don't know if it is because there are less tourists right now or not but it was so nice to be the only car on the road.
combo	We saw zebras, baboons, dozens of hippos, different antelopes, the backside of every warthog in the park I think, they bolt as soon as they see you looking, giraffe, an eagle, guineafowl and several lions.
combo	It's definitely worth two nightsof your vacation to visit."
combo	"My husband and I recently toured Akagera National park, in Rwanda, thanks to Fine Safaris Afrika.
combo	It was truly a trip of a life time!
combo	Our tour guide, Mr. Bachu was exceptional in service and knowledge.
combo	Learning about the different animals, birds, and reptiles, how they communicate, their unique roles in the savannah, was an eye opener, and helped us appreciate nature, far more than we ever have.
combo	It also showed us how little we as humans, know about the creatures, with whom we share this earth, and how each of us have a unique role.
combo	Creation is amazing!
combo	Thanks again Mr. Patrick Kwizera and Team (www.finesafrisafrika@gmail.com).
combo	We will be back.
combo	May Masozera USA"
combo	"A really nice scenery and there are a couple of wild animals.
combo	On your own probably hard to find, so hire a guide.
combo	He/she knows where to find the animals and they know a lot about the park.
combo	You will have a great time.
combo	We saw some hippo’s, elephants, antilopes, zebra’s, giraffe and crocodile.
combo	That said, you should only go if you are from Rwanda.
combo	The prices for Rwandese are $16.
combo	A fair price in my opinion.
combo	So every Rwandese who can, should go!
combo	The prices for foreigners is $100!
combo	That is just a insane amount of money compair to other parks in Africa and the prices payed by Rwandese .
combo	We came at 5 o’clock and had to pay for the whole day.
combo	We had to get in due our lodge is in the park.
combo	The same problem we had with the day we left.
combo	We left at 9 o’clock and had to pay for the whole day.
combo	With the 2 of us, this means we payed over $400.
combo	The people at the reception didn’t want to do anything about it and weren’t that friendly and understandible.
combo	So as a foreigner I would recommend if you realy want to go, to do just 1 day.
combo	With in mind that the value for money isn’t worth it."
combo	"I'll preface this by saying that we went to Akagera 25 times (mostly for weekends) over the course of two years, during rainy season and dry season, and before Covid and after Covid.
combo	I will also say that we have been fortunate to have visited several other game parks in several other countries (including the Mara, the Kruger, Etosha, and Chobe).
combo	Akagera, by far, offers the best for: - Birding (in a given weekend, we would routinely spot 100+ different species, and we spotted more than 200 species in all our visits); - Hippos (with all of Akagera's lakes, it's easy to spot hippos galore in the water, but we also saw hippos out of the water numerous times); and - Solitude (we once watched a pair of lions for an hour, and only one vehicle came and went that whole time; we had a campground entirely to ourselves many times; leaving Mutumba Hills early in the morning often rewarded us with up to three hours of game driving in the north where we didn't see anyone else; etc.).
combo	Does Akagera boast the big cat populations of the Kruger or the Mara?
combo	No.
combo	But if you get lucky and see a lion, you just might get the sighting completely to yourself, unlike in the Kruger or the Mara.
combo	Are you guaranteed to see ""the big 5"" (an archaic measurement, in my opinion, for game park ""success"")?
combo	No.
combo	But you absolutely will see buffalo.
combo	We saw buffalo 100 percent of the time, so please disregard what chandrassekhar said a few reviews down).
combo	We also saw elephants 60 percent of the time.
combo	Akagera offers beautiful landscapes, solitude unmatched by most other game parks, hundreds of bird species, and heaps of other animals (despite what Madeline R seems to think, even though she saw ""two leopards, lots of buffalo, five lions, two pythons, tons of hippo"" and more).
combo	I think sometimes that people who complain about the park either have weird ideas of a successful game drive (like Madeline, who saw all of those animals yet said there's ""not a lot of wildlife""), or don't know how to optimize their time in the park.
combo	So, I have some suggestions :) 1) DO game drive early in the day.
combo	We saw animals at all times of day, but mornings yielded our best sightings (like a rhino mama and baby at 6am, and a family of roan antelope around 7am).
combo	2) DON'T do the Cannonball Run tour from Kigali (aka the trip starting from and returning to Kigali in the same day).
combo	Trying to spot wildlife in a hot, sunny climate between 10am and 3pm is not a great strategy for success.
combo	3) DO stay a night or two.
combo	Accommodation options range from camping to a luxury lodge, so there should be something for everyone.
combo	4) DON'T expect to see lions (and please don't ask everyone where they are).
combo	We were asked numerous times, ""Where are the lions?""
combo	and ""Have you seen any lions?""
combo	First off, we saw leopards more frequently than we saw lions.
combo	Akagera has a relatively small lion population, so if you want lions, go to a zoo (or maybe the Mara).
combo	Secondly, there are so many awesome animals to see, and if you're only looking for lions, you'll ignore countless other fascinating species.
combo	5) DO be patient.
combo	Our best leopard sighting--where we watched a male for 20 minutes, all to ourselves--came when we were sitting by the dam birdwatching, with the engine off.
combo	6) DON'T speed around.
combo	In addition to possibly endangering the very wildlife you're hoping to see, racing through the park is a great way to miss a lot (like the tree hyrax that looks like a knot in the tree).
combo	7) DO take a good camera and/or good pair of binoculars.
combo	8) DON'T ignore the birds.
combo	Akagera has spectacular birding, and it's how we saw our most ""kills"" (e.g., a lilac breasted roller killing a tiny turtle, a martial eagle eating a dwarf mongoose, a hamerkop choking down a frog, a marabou stork catching a fish, etc.).
combo	9) DO talk to the guides at reception and ask what sightings they've had, where they recommend driving, if there are any road closures (during rainy season), etc.
combo	They are knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly.
combo	Also, do share your sightings with them; they will delight at your enjoyment of the park).
combo	10) DO have a great time!
combo	Akagera is a unique and special place, with so much to offer.
combo	It is definitely, absolutely worth a visit!"
combo	"We enjoyed our trip to akagera park.
combo	Tips: take a guide; do a sunset boat trip (saw hippo's, elephant bathing, crocodiles and loads of birds) and a night game drive.
combo	Spotted two leopards.
combo	One having a close encounter with lots of buffalos.
combo	The park scenery is wonderful, but there isn't a lot of wildlife.
combo	This may be a result of us being spoilt by previous trips to Etosha and Masai Mara.
combo	We spotted 5 lions, two pythons, a black mamba, tons of hippo's, some zebra's and giraffe.
combo	Blue monkey, velvet monkey, crocodile, buffalo's lots of different antelopes.
combo	And some lovely birds."
combo	"Spent the entire day of June 6 at Akagera National Park.
combo	My four friends and i brought our own vehicle (an SUV - strongly recommend 4WD and a vehicle that is not low to the ground).
combo	We arrived before the park opened at 6am and drove the length of the park (from the South entrance to the North exit) until we left at 330pm.
combo	First, i highly recommend asking for Justus as your guide.
combo	He is wonderful - friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the park and its wildlife (having grown up in the area).
combo	He made the safari soooo much better than it would have been had we not had his insights and navigation help.
combo	The park is beautiful, and you will see plenty of animals.
combo	The only two of the Big 5 that we did not see were lions and elephants, but what we did see was well worth our time.
combo	Dozens of zebras, hundreds of impalas, more than a dozen hippos, nearly a dozen giraffe, as well as several pumbas and baboons, most all of these up close (as in ""can reach your hand out the window and touch them"").
combo	Also, my friends were all residents of Rwanda - one had been to ANP before, and all of them loved the experience.
combo	Tips: 1.
combo	Ask for Justus, he's amazing.
combo	2.
combo	Bring water and food, you'll want to enjoy all of the park and it takes several hours to do so.
combo	3.
combo	If you have a legit camera (not just your phone camera), bring it.
combo	The scenery is top-notch and you'll be able to capture everything in all its beauty"
combo	"This national park is so spectacular!
combo	My first safari experience and unforgettable.... Our guide MONICA was outstanding and she expertly took us to see giraffes, zebras, elephants, hippos etc... unfortunately we didn't see lions but we really didn't care-the day was so perfect!
combo	We definitely recommend getting a guide to see the park and TAKE A 4 X 4 or your car is going to break down-the roads are not paved.
combo	We also loved the boat tour-do it early morning and enjoy the serenity on the water and the bird life.
combo	We also did the night drive but didn't enjoy that as much-the best part of it was the night sky!"
combo	"Visited Akagera for the 3rd time and entered for the first time via the Mutumba Northern Gate.
combo	Coming from Nyagatare this saved us quite some kilometers to drive to the main entrance in the Soutern part of the park.
combo	At the same time you can do more different loops before reaching the southern part with the nice Akagera Game Lodge.
combo	Road to Mutumba Northern Gate is excellent and all paved.
combo	Game viewing remains nice due to the superb nature of this park.
combo	Saw in half a day buffalo, zebra, impala, topi, baboons, wartog, bushbuck, fish eagle, crocodile, hippo, guinea fowl and a large herd of giraf.
combo	After a good night sleep in the excellent Akagera Lodge spotted in an early morning drive a leopard and elephant on the way out to the park gate.
combo	Roads to/from the park have improved a lot illustrating how much Rwanda Government is doing to attract tourism."
combo	"Visited Akagera several times with our guest.
combo	The park is really nice for wildlife safari as.
combo	Our game drives were amazing with explore its best, viewing Lions,elephants,buffaloes and Rhino.
combo	It was such nice experience and the park's staff are very helpful.
combo	Highly recommended"
combo	"This place is indeed good to visit while with great guides.
combo	Had chances of viewing elephants, zebras, giraffes, Lions and more wild animals.
combo	With some reviews, did not expect much to see in the park, however my day was full of many surprises with many animals and great experience.
combo	Thanks to the African Parks for effective management and contribution to the growth of this great area"
combo	"Having already visited Kruger (South Africa) and Etosha (Namibia), we did not feel the need to visit Akagera.
combo	But because of covid situation and the compulsory 72h testing before entering any national parks, we had to take last minute decision every day.
combo	So in the end, we decided to visit the park with little expectations.
combo	The park is still super recent and it will take time to grow, so it's useless to compare it to other long-established ones.
combo	In the end, our 24h there were really amazing, we loved it.
combo	We crossed from South to North and we basically so all animals within few kilometers of the northern gate.
combo	We have also seen them along the way but the last part was the best.
combo	Plenty of buffaloes (200 easily, in the South and in the North), 20 giraffes during the journey, 3 elephants at the exit gate and a leopard along the road.
combo	Plus all the other ""smaller"" ones you easily spot (impalas etc...).
combo	We left from the reception at 7h30 and decided to drive non stop North till mid-way.
combo	It took just 2hrs to reach it.
combo	After, we slowed down and enjoyed all the rest of the way.
combo	Road is in perfect shape for most of the time even though it had been down pouring the night before.
combo	Hard work is being done and there is no way this park won't become even better in the next decade."
combo	"Akagera National Park is situated on the eastern side of Rwanda bordering Tanzania.
combo	It takes around two and half hours to three hours drive from Kigali by reserved vehicle.
combo	Normally any SUV with one passenger will take around $350-400, however if there are a group of 5/6 people then it is normally charged $190-200 per person, from Kigali.
combo	This price includes the park entry fees and packed meal with drinking water.
combo	Normally the vehicle picks up the tourist from his/her hotel or place of stay around 5/5.30 am and reaches the park by around 8/8.30am.
combo	A trip around the park takes around 4-6 hours, depending on the agreement with the tour operator/guide/driver.
combo	And return back to Kigali by evening.
combo	But frankly speaking the hype created around Akagera Natioanl Park by the Rwandan tourist operators and the Rwanda Development Board is not at all worth to explore.
combo	This artificially developed park is not worth even one tenth of the money required to visit it.
combo	I have not seen any one of the big five animals which is being advertised so much, during my nearly 5 hours trip in the park.
combo	And I understand from my driver that he had not seen any of the big five during his last five visits.
combo	One of the guides whom I met during my Rwanda trip said that he had never seen any big five, in his ten visits to the park.
combo	But the RDB and tour operators promote it so much that they made to believe that it would be a life time experience.
combo	To me it was a life time disappointment.
combo	I had been to Masai Mara and many other African national parks but Akagera was a complete disheartening experience.
combo	However one can see Zebra, Baboon, Giraffe, Impala, Tsessebe etc.
combo	in abundance.
combo	My honest suggestion will be don’t waste your money just to try your luck.
combo	There will always be a big difference between Natural park and artificially developed one."
combo	"It can be tempting to take your own car and drive the game drive roads around the park.
combo	However, I can tell you that it is FAR better to sign up for guides and drivers to take you on these adventures instead.
combo	the guides of the game drives and boat tours are experts at finding the animals you want to see.
combo	We stayed for one week, took one DIY drive and decided to just take the guided drives after that.
combo	We saw SO many different kinds of animals, most of which we never would have spotted if it weren't for the guide.
combo	The guide and the drier put so much effort into ensuring we had an amazing time, and we never took the same route twice.
combo	Because the drives are private, you can tell the guide and driver what you want to see, and they will work to make it happen.
combo	This was a trip of a lifetime and our favorite part of our trip was the time we spent in Akagera.
combo	The hospitality was spectacular, even though the business was struggling due to the coronavirus outbreak that was just starting to arrive in Rwanda.
combo	If someone is considering a photography/ animal sighting safari in Africa, I can't think of a better place than Akagera.
combo	I would highly recommend this park for singles, couples, and families."
combo	"Due to staying in Kigali and not having time to schedule in an overnight stay we opted for the half day game drive.
combo	After a 2.5 hour drive we arrived at the visitor centre.
combo	We were then given a 20 minute briefing by our guide Emanuel who was excellent prior to the game drive.
combo	Our short time there limited us to the southern part of the park but were delighted that on a short 5 hour game drive we saw a lone elephant, giraffes, zebras, impalas, antelopes, baboons, monkeys, warthogs, and water buffalo and numerous birds.
combo	Our party of 5 thoroughly enjoyed the game drive and I would recommend the park for anyone visiting Rwanda."
combo	"Akagera National Park is a beautiful savannah ecosystem which seems infinite in size.
combo	The animals here aren’t shy and will hangout around the vehicles allowing extended observations including plenty of picture opportunities!
combo	My guide was well-informed and answered most, if not all, of my large groups’ hundreds of questions on the day safari.
combo	The night drive safari was an experience I wasn’t prepared for; the guide could spot animals that I would have never found!
combo	Hyenas, porcupines, bush babies, etc.... amazing!
combo	My only advice: bring plenty of Dramamine because the uneven roads aren’t easy on the stomach!"
combo	"Nothing beats nature and we enjoyed it although we didn’t get to see a couple of the big 5, lions in particular but the kids loved it and we had a good tour guide"
combo	We loved our stay at Akagera Game Lodge in the park.
combo	We had the most wonderful evening game drive led by Jean Paul Karinganire.
combo	His team worked tirelessly and so very effectively to give us all the best experience.
combo	A visit never to be forgotten.
combo	Thank you for what you do and how much you obviously love doing it.
combo	We did our visit in Akagera with Usalama Tours and it was worth the money.
combo	We got an experienced guide to show us around and talk about the animals and we had an very skilled driver throughout the rough terrain.
combo	"The park staff seem about disorganized and there are so many of them either passing you by or just looking at you.
combo	The rates are a bit confusing.
combo	The park guides need a bit more training.
combo	The animals are still hard to find.
combo	We had to drive from the south up north and only encountered a few elephants.
combo	Up north, towards the plains you have a bigger chance to see more animals; giraffes, buffalo etc but still no lions.
combo	Everything could be improved."
combo	"We had a full day's drive in the park with Anaclet as our guide.
combo	He was incredibly knowledgeable about the park and all the wildlife we saw, and was a great source of stories and jokes.
combo	The park itself was beautiful, and we were quite impressed with the dedication of all staff that we met.
combo	We would love to come back to explore more of the park, especially for the night drive.
combo	Thanks for a wonderful experience."
combo	"Our guide,Caesar was amazing.
combo	He was with us for 6 hours.
combo	The roads are rutted, so you need to enter the park driving an all terrain vehicle.
combo	The sceneries are amazing...animals cross right in front of you.
combo	The price is very reasonable.
combo	There is a couple of type of lodges on the property, they are run by an independent company and also are very reasonable, especially on the off season."
combo	"I just finished the safari tour in akagera national park.
combo	I visited it 2 times, yesterday and today, and I never saw any single elephant or even giraffe.
combo	What I only saw, Zebras, buffalo, impalas with some of waterbuck.
combo	and each animal of these I mentioned, I swear I could count them on a single hand.
combo	I spent many hours to find big animals, but I NEVER saw them.
combo	They also burned the grass everywhere in the national park without telling me that, so they scared the animals.
combo	This is why I rarely saw animals here.
combo	It looked like an abandoned area, or better to say bombed area after a war, black soil and fallen trees with no leaves .
combo	I went to Tanzania and Kenya, and no way even to put them in a comparison with this Park.
combo	I call it a park, like in any city you see.
combo	my experience is very very bad, I will never ever come again, I don't recommend it for everyone, unless you come in a different time or don't come to waste your time, go to Maasai Mara and serengeti National Parks that's more than enough.
combo	in Rwanda, go to see Gorillas, this is what they can show."
combo	"Night animal trek was highlight of our stay.
combo	Three nights in newly renovated lodge rooms.
combo	Very nice facilities.
combo	Pool under construction.
combo	Hot water issues for some of us.
combo	Beautiful views of the park as lodge is set atop a ridge.
combo	Staff were very nice.
combo	Lodge was very empty.
combo	Very few rooms occupied, so extremely quiet.
combo	Nice!"
combo	"My tour company, Shadows of Africa, took me here as part of the itinerary.
combo	I did request to see this park as I heard so much about it.
combo	In comparison to other parks I visited in Tanzania, this place also showcase many different types of animals.
combo	True, it doesn't have as much animals as the other parks, but I think the park is boosting up more animals for the future.
combo	It was a pleasant time to do a game drive as I've seen many animals.
combo	My favorite ones are the elephants.
combo	So nice to see a family of elephants.
combo	The hippos are everywhere.
combo	The park never runs out of hippos.
combo	Birds as well are a nice thing to see.
combo	I suggest that people bring their binoculars to view the animals if it was far away.
combo	I wasn't disappointed at all.
combo	I enjoyed the game drive.
combo	Also make sure you have insect repellent as the tse-tse flies can get inside the jeep.
combo	Our PR lady was nice enough to show us and to direct my tour guide/driver where to go."
combo	"landscape is amazing, we stayed at mutumba and muyumba campsite which was amazing and we were almost alone.
combo	bring enough food and water.
combo	we saw a lot of animals but no lions.
combo	in the very north we had the park for our own, nobody else there.
combo	be aware of controlled bushfires."
combo	"Ever since I was young I have wanted to do a legit African Safari, and that exactly what I found during my Game Drive in Akagera.
combo	I felt like a little kid seeing all the differen animals throughout the park.
combo	We mostly saw Zebra, Antelope and Impala, but some fo the cooler but limited experiences we had were running into about a pack of 20 Giraffes, a massive group of Hippos along ""Hippo Beach"", some Crocodiles here and there perching near different banks.
combo	We saw a group of Elephants as well but at a distance, and also Baboons running around everywhere!
combo	Like I said, this trip brought the inner child out of me and was happy to finally experience it.
combo	They also say on very rare occasions Lions are also spotted through the park!
combo	Regardless, you need to try out a Game Drive if its something that you have not done yet in your life."
combo	"From Kigali it's 2 and a half hours drive to the southern gate entrance, with the first 90 minutes on good tarmac road but the last hour on massage road.
combo	A good tip is to load up with fuel before entering, as there is only 1 fuel station in the whole park (next to HQ) that is well overpriced and only gives you a maximum of 20 usd whether empty or not.
combo	Park entrance fees for 2 people, 2 nights plus rental vehicle was at 212 usd.
combo	Reception also give you a handy park road map for 1 usd that can get you places where gps can't.
combo	We stayed in Akagera Game Lodge which is just a few minutes drive from reception.
combo	We spent most of the time driving in the southern and central areas of the park on our 1st day, but was told most of the bigger animals were in the northern section of the park.
combo	Whilst in south we see many zebra, buffalo, giraffe, topi, waterbuck, mongoose, warthogs, olive baboon, vervet monkey.
combo	A great highlight was the Lake Ihema boat tour that was 45 usd pp and lasted around 2 and a half hours.
combo	On the tour we see lots of hippos (only their heads!
combo	but was too risky to get close due to the size of our boat.
combo	Also a few crocs and some birdlife.
combo	Once the tour finished, a great sight was seeing a couple of grey crowned cranes on top of our car in the car park.
combo	On our 2nd day we start to head for the northern gate that takes around 6 hours but take into consideration a few sighting stops on route.
combo	We heard that lions were predominantly in the areas of Mutumba, Mihindi, Mohana and Kilala.
combo	We drove these areas but had no luck in witnessing any cats.
combo	We are well aware that luck and timing play a significant role in big 5 sightings.
combo	You win some, you lose some.
combo	Though Mihindi did have elephants and hippos but more towards the other side of the lake, where even a big lens is too far from the action.
combo	Give yourself plenty of time to get to the north gate, as it's also 3 hours drive back to Kigali.
combo	Also another tip being the drive from Mutumba Hills to Kitabili is a terrible road and needs your complete attention.
combo	There's also tsetse flies galore here, so having a/c in your vehicle is a must.
combo	The park on a whole is beautiful and scenic with hills, flats, grass, bush, many different vegetation colours.
combo	Hardly any tourists were here during our visit which felt like having the park to ourselves.
combo	Definitely worth the visit as some great experiences can also be without cats..."
combo	"I have fair experience of game parks in Zimbabwe and also Liwonde in Malawi.
combo	I wasn't sure what to expect from Akagera.
combo	I have seen the big five and just hoped for the best.
combo	I was not disappointed.
combo	If you are desperate to see lion and herds of elephant for example you might be out of luck but that can be the case anywhere.
combo	We had a game drive before breakfast and saw everything we could reasonably expect to see (the plains game plus buffalo).
combo	Then we saw nothing bar baboons and zebra for 2 or 3 hours.
combo	It's the way things go and not, to my mind, the fault of the park.
combo	We then headed for a boat trip on the lake and had an outstanding experience of hippo, elephant and the biggest crocodiles I have ever seen.
combo	We could easily have missed the elephant.
combo	That's the joy and frustration of game viewing!
combo	It is a scenic park with views over the lake and a variety of terrain and I enjoyed that also.
combo	Clearly the more time you have, the further you can go and the more you are likely to see.
combo	If we had gone further north (where our guide would have liked to take us) we would probably have seen more elephant.
combo	I thought the roads were pretty good and even an ordinary car could have coped.
combo	We were in a minibus and hired a guide and I would recommend that.
combo	I would also say that the boat guide, Theogen, was outstanding.
combo	The fact that European authorities are donating black rhino to the park indicates to me that this is a well looked after park and as time goes by the rhino and lion populations will increase and consequently be more visible.
combo	Currently it may not be the safari capital of the world but if you are in Rwanda I would say it is well worth the visit.
combo	It also has an informative display at the entrance (and a reasonable small cafe if you wish)."
combo	"Akagera National Park is located at approx 3 hours drive from Kigali (capital city of Rwanda).
combo	If you are looking for a safari on a budget, read further....
combo	Rent a car for self drive from Kigali.
combo	Drive to Akagera National Park.
combo	At the entrance (south entrance), pay the entrance fees and the fees for the car.
combo	You can hire local community freelance guides on a half day/full day basis.
combo	If you are into camping, there are 3-4 campsites in the park with electric fencing and toilet facilities.
combo	You have to pay for the campsite at the visitor center.
combo	cheapest accommodation in the park).
combo	You can get a tent from the visitor center or get your own tent.
combo	Firewood for camping is provided by the park.
combo	Head out with you car and guide for a self drive safari.
combo	Fees as of July 2019 Entrance fees for foreign visitor : $50 per day Vehicle Fees (rwandan registered): approx $12 Guide fees (half day) $25 Guide fees (full day) $40 Camping fees (per night) : $25 Staying at Akagera Game Lodge (B&B): $140 per night"
combo	"So, perhaps you are considering going to Akagera National Park and leaving it up to the Park to assign one of their superbly trained guides.They preparation that they undergo to spend the entire time in your car with you and whoever is driving will become a marvellous experience!
combo	Wow, do those guides know A LOT!!!
combo	I have been several times now for this very personal and super up-close to the animals type of safari.
combo	This most recent trip we were assigned Anaclet Nsengiyumva , the man who TRAINS them guides themselves.
combo	There was literally NOT one answer he couldn't provide.
combo	He knew all of the animals of course but, for me personally, the biggest delight was his immense knowledge of birding (and science, in general!.
combo	Anaclet brought so many fascinating anecdotes to his explanations and teachings.
combo	He was an absolute delight and I was more sorry to part with him than all of the spectacular birds and magnificent creatures !!
combo	TRULY.... do yourself a favour, REQUEST HIM!!!!"
combo	Three days and two nights stay in the marvelous national park.
combo	We drove in through the southern gate.
combo	Our fantastic guide and driver Emile from lion safaris Rwanda took us to an experience better and more fun than I ever could have dreamt about.
combo	We saw over 35 animals.
combo	And he could explain everything about them and also about the nature.
combo	One morning we went up before sun rice and went lion searching.
combo	However with no such luck.
combo	But the lights and ambience just to be on the savanna.
combo	Such an experience.
combo	Loved every minute of it.
combo	We left akagera through the both gate.
combo	Furthermore we stayed two nights in Karenge Bush camp.
combo	One could not dream of a better service food view and location - 100% recommendation!
combo	I want to go back!
combo	"me and my clients enjoyed the drive through Akagera national park from the south to the exit in the north,though we were a little disappointed in the viewing of the animals because they didn't see much as expected but they were understanding because this is a small park that is still in recovery after the 1994 genocide besides these are wild animals."
combo	"This was a business trip that was converted into a wildlife tour and we really enjoyed a lot from this place, The Gorilla were so fascinating and this really overcame our expectations looking forward to tour this place again."
combo	the park has been downsized to give land to farmers to settle down.
combo	the wild life needs more animals especially the big 5. seen the elephants and giraffes and zebra
combo	"Akagera is a 'must' for all friends visiting us here in Rwanda.
combo	The park is stunningly beautiful and discovering the animals is great fun.
combo	Whenever we book, we try to have our favorite travel agent @HillsintheMistTours do the trip with us.
combo	Kassim has a perfect eye for the animals and an endless energy in finding them.
combo	He is eager to assure that is customers will leave the park with the experience of having seen wildlife.
combo	Also his safari car is highly recommended as it will allow for perfect viewing of wildlife, whilst giving comfort and space at the same time."
combo	"I had read this was a small park and the wildlife population was recovering so I didn't expect to see as many animals as we did.
combo	We did one game drive and a boat safari and both did not disappoint.
combo	Our short time there limited us to the southern part of the park so we weren't able to fully explore the area but were delighted that on a short 3 hour drive we saw an elephant, giraffes, zebras, impalas, hippos, a crocodile, antelope, baboons, monkeys, several birds, warthogs, and water buffalo (and a few others I'm sure I am forgetting).
combo	The boat safari was also a pleasant and relaxing surprise.
combo	Riding on the lake in the morning was very enjoyable and afforded us some up close views of hippos, crocs, and water buffalo along with some great bird viewing.
combo	This was my first safari so I don't have much else to compare it to but I came away satisfied wishing we had more time to go up to the northern section of the park in hopes of seeing the lions and rhinos that frequent that area."
combo	Akagera National Park is a beautiful place to enjoy peace in nature while viewing game animals and beautiful birds.
combo	There are probably not as many animals as some other game reserves but it's still a very beautiful place to visit.
combo	"We arranged our own driver and vehicle from Kigali out to Akagera.
combo	It's about a 2-hour drive to get there, and about 2.5 hours back because of driving from south to north within the park.
combo	Just one way in and a different way out.
combo	We had lined up Penina as a guide, and she was delightful.
combo	Friendly, informative without talking our ears off.
combo	The welcome center is comfortable with a small coffee bar and small gift shop, and good toilets.
combo	Use them when you can!
combo	We also had a short briefing in front of the park map before we took off.
combo	We saw lots of monkees, baboons, giraffe, zebra, impala, cape buffalo, water buck, hippos and warthogs - but the lions and leopards were elusive.
combo	Granted, it was a beautiful day and we were there mid-day, so as expected, the cats were napping and not moving around.
combo	The park itself is really beautiful.
combo	Plan on 6-7 hours within the park, and you need to bring in your own food if you want lunch.
combo	There's a nice place to stop at hippo beach (with a squatty potty).
combo	You can get out of the car and stretch your legs a bit.
combo	Would be great if they would have baboon-proof rubbish bins there.
combo	We thoroughly enjoyed our drive through the park.
combo	The flora and fauna is beautiful.
combo	You just can't be too update about seeing specific animals.
combo	Appreciate what you see and enjoy that.
combo	They are missing an opportunity by not having brochures and another gift shop at the north (exit) gate.
combo	If you didn't pick up something upon entry, you're out of luck."
combo	"We've been there for 2 days, camping on a wonderful spot with great view over the park.
combo	Our guides, venuste and John, were great companions who were devoted in showing us everything.
combo	At the end we managed to see to elephants playing.
combo	Apart from that, plenty to zebras and buffalos, hippos and baboons.
combo	Highly recomended!"
combo	"I've been to more commercial safaris in South Africa and really enjoyed my experience in Akagera.
combo	I booked a day trip from Kigali last minute, but really wish I had stayed overnight and camped at the park.
combo	The animals were decimated during the genocide and still recovering, but the only ones I was unable to see on a day trip were the lion and leopard.
combo	I saw elephants, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, Iimpala, water buck, buffalos, wart hogs, baboons, and more.
combo	My guide, Daniel, was fantastic.
combo	He was very knowledgeable and personal."
combo	"Akagera is a very wonderful National Park with wonderful landscape and amazing views enroute the park.
combo	The park needs to come up with total aqurate cost of what is required to explore the park, not breaking costs of what was not planned for, like asking visitors to pay for the tour guide, the park carts, then pay the entrance fee.
combo	Why not give a total cost as charges for exploring the park.
combo	If you really want to explore this park, i will advice you get there early, mostly when you are leaving from Kigali because is about 3 hours drive from Kigali.
combo	I will recommend the park for anyone visiting Rwanda."
combo	"Akagera National Park is a great place to see lots of beautiful sights.
combo	Although the roads weren’t as good, the sights amaze.
combo	Akagera is a national park full of stupendous sights including birds, elephants, giraffes, zebras and warthogs.
combo	There are only a few places to get out of the car, so usually you just stay in the car and look for animals.
combo	In rainy season, the grass is green and the bushes are green, but in dry season, the grass is more wilted and the bushes are less thick and green.
combo	The roads, you see, were very bumpy.
combo	I got carsick when I went.
combo	But it was worth it.
combo	I got to see the biggest land animal in the world: an African elephant.
combo	And I got to see the tallest animal in the world: a giraffe.
combo	The lodge (or hotel) amazed me so much.
combo	It was almost as good as the elephant.
combo	They had such good food that I wanted more and more until I felt like I would fall asleep.
combo	The room that we slept in had everything we needed: a table and two desks with drawers in them to put our stuff in—and a mosquito net to protect us from the always-biting mosquitos.
combo	If you want to taste some of the greatest food in Rwanda, and see some very stupendous sights, I highly recommend Akagera."
combo	"The landscape of Akagera National Park is amazing; wide views over all these lakes.
combo	We have been there in December, so everything was green.
combo	We drove around with our driver / guide the whole day and only met perhaps ten other cars.
combo	Really great!
combo	We saw a lot of animals (even lions) and definitely enjoyed the day!
combo	The ""entrance procedure"" is quite well organized and the entrance fee (something around 80 US$ for two persons, car, driver, guide) seems to be reasonable.
combo	Being in Rwanda I definitely recommend to visit Akagera."
combo	"We had some friends visiting from Canada accompany us to a return tour of Akagera National Park - in the rainy season.
combo	Rwanda is to be congratulated for their dedication to conservation.
combo	Our colleagues took the night safari and saw a leopard.
combo	The boat tour is highly recommended for birders.
combo	Our first day we toured the southern half of the park, and on the second day we drove to the northern half.
combo	We didn't see rhino, leopard or lion - but did see elephant, giraffe, water buffalo, topi, impala, mongoose, baboons, vervet monkeys, etc.
combo	It is a beautiful park featuring not only nature, but well-educated wardens!"
combo	"On a recent trip to Akagera in December, 2018, I was fortunate to be in the company of two very experienced guides.
combo	I was with a group of 14 traveling in comfortable Land Cruisers with pop tops.
combo	My guide is a cheerful and informative gentleman named Nizeyimana Jean Damascene.
combo	The driver of the other vehicle in our party was Valense, a guy with an infectious smile and wonderful manner.
combo	During the 2 hour journey from Kigali into Eastern Province, Damascene kept us informed on how the day would unfold, patiently answering all of our questions.
combo	During the six hour drive through the park, he proved to be an enthusiastic and excellent wildlife spotter, as we encountered baboons, impalas, velvet monkeys, waterbuck, several types of birds, and best of all—a stand of elephants.
combo	Damascene also is a rich source of information on the history of the park.
combo	There wasn’t a single question he couldn’t answer.
combo	I believe Akagera is a must when you visit Rwanda.
combo	Going with Damascene is extra special.
combo	You will never forget it!
combo	Damascene’s contact information is as follows: Email: damasn85@gmail.com or damasn85@yahoo.com.
combo	+250788522344 and +250722522344"
combo	Over the past decade those who know the beautiful Akagera National Park in the Western Rwanda can surely admire the amazing increase in wildlife numbers to becoming home to the world’s big five by 2018.
combo	This growth has seen a tremendous increase in varieties of bird species in this beautiful flat landscape.
combo	No much doubt this increase is a clear result of proper and sustainable conservation measures deployed by the Rwandan Authorities.
combo	Well done
combo	"We opted for the 2 day trip to Akagera with Nature Trails East Africa with a guide and pop-top 4WD Land Cruiser.
combo	Our guide Peter was very good at getting us onto the less travelled tracks and we got to see loads of animals up close.
combo	We missed the big cats but were very close to hippos, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebra, impala, topi, waterbuck and baboons.
combo	The afternoon boat trip was a wonderful opportunity for bird-watching on Lake Ihema and our guide Theogene was a great spotter - we would just have liked a longer trip.
combo	Akagera Game Lodge is a little tired but comfortable and with great views.
combo	The food is very good too.
combo	Akagera National Park has numerous different habitats in a relatively small area - savannah, lakes, hills and forest.
combo	It is a beautiful park to visit and we had excellent animal viewing."
combo	"This park in now quiet with good game and excellent birdwatching.
combo	I predict that in a few years time this will be high on the safari ‘go-to’ list.
combo	It is so different from the safari experience in the large game reserves of South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya.
combo	Very few vehicles and no guides linked by radios charging after every sighting.
combo	One day we only saw two other vehicles in the whole day.
combo	If you haven’t done a safari before and want to see the “Big 5” guaranteed then this may not be the place to come (in 4 days we did not see lion, leopard or rhino), but if you are looking for a less commercialised safari experience I would highly recommend Akagera.
combo	It seems to be really improving after the devastation following the 1994 genocide, fencing in 2014 has given a rapid increases in animal numbers and all of the Big 5 are now established.
combo	It has a wild and natural feel - but you may need to visit soon to experience this, as the trajectory of increase in visitor numbers seems very steep.
combo	The scenery is beautiful.
combo	An escarpment runs North-South on the Western side for 120km.
combo	On the Eastern side a series of lakes border Tanzania.
combo	The wildlife and birds are therefore diverse, as the altitude and flora vary.
combo	We were there in November, which is at the beginning fo the ‘short rains’, but these seemed to be confined to short very heavy showers in the afternoon, with nice temperatures and many fewer people than high season (June to August).
combo	There are tsetse flies, but in November numbers were low and confined to the long grassy areas (we were told that there were more during the dry season).
combo	People who worked in the park was at its best in November to February and could not understand why all the tourists came in the dry season of June - August.
combo	The park is busier at weekends, as it is a short trip from Kigali, so if you can time your visit to mid-week that is better.
combo	The south part of the park has more people than the north part (the south holds the only entrance gate and the lodges, although one of the big safari companies has just started building a lodge in the north).
combo	Drive from north to south is about 3 hours in dry weather without stopping.
combo	The flat area in the south near the main gate is good game viewing, but has more people at the weekend.
combo	The standard of guiding is not up to the more developed safari areas - if you self-drive rather than take a tour operator from Kigali, there are ‘community guides’ available - we spent two days with Justice who had great spotting eyes and was knowledgeable about the birds.
combo	I think that every visitor should employ a community guide, as this is a great way of making a connection between the park, and realising the value of conservation, to the local community.
combo	However guiding training in a work in progress and you will need to find and bring in your own guide if you want a more in-depth professional approach (we found that having done some safari before the community guide was absolutely fine as we already knew the natural history and animal facts).
combo	The lodges do not do the ‘accommodation plus game drives’ packages that seem to be the norm in more developed safari destinations - we found this liberating rather than any problem.
combo	We were there mainly for birding and had asked Claudien Nsabagasani to join us as our guide.
combo	The who place is fantastic for birding, red faced barbet, swamp warbler, red chested sunbird - the list was more than 80 in 2 days."
combo	"We had an amazing time in the park, saw lots of animals including 3 out of big 5.
combo	We used a guide (without him we would have missed lots of animals) - the guides are well trained and experienced so they have a great eye to spot animals.
combo	We also did a sunset boat trip (strangely at the reception we were told the boat trip was fully booked, however our friend had booked a spot for us and on arrival to the boat, it was just five of us).
combo	We stayed for one night in Akagera Game Lodge which was brilliant.
combo	Definitely worth a visit"
combo	"It was sad to see that the devastation from twenty years ago has still not seen a full recovery, as the once massive numbers of elephants and lions are only slowly growing back from nothing.
combo	That being said, the park rangers and guides do a great job protecting the animals and educating the public.
combo	The hills and flat lands don’t provide the deep cover of protection like you see in the Nyungwe Forest in the southern region.
combo	This makes seeing all sorts of wildlife, buffalos, giraffe, elephants and much more...easy to locate...but it is easy to see how they would be decimated if not protected.
combo	Beautiful park with wonderful wildlife."
combo	"We were quite late, we spent only 2.5 hours.
combo	Despite of that we saw quite some animals.
combo	The park stunning!
combo	With two big lakes, with hills, blue sky and the afternoon light.
combo	It was magic.
combo	We ha a good guide so he made the best of our time.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"Do not compare the number of wild life with Kenya or Tanzania as yet.
combo	But enjoy the beautiful nature and great variety of bird life in this park.
combo	Roads well maintained and still good variety of game.
combo	Saw on one day: zebra, impala, topi, buffalo, giraf, warthog, velvet monkeys, baboons, hippos, bush bucks and even the leopard!
combo	Not to talk about birds like African fish eagle, brown snake eagle, pied kingfisher, lilac breasted roller, saddle-billed stork, grey-crowned crane, marabou stork, Guinea fowls or the shoe bill stork."
combo	"The kind people at Heaven Tours in Kigali convinced us during our stay at The Retreat to take a day and night at Akagera and we are so glad that we did.
combo	We stayed at Ruzizi lodge which is remarkable and wonderful and had a park guide - Alfonse - who was amazing.
combo	We saw so much game as we drove up to the North Gate - lions, elephants, hippos, - a veritable garden of eden!"
combo	"A group of seven young adults visited Akagera National Park for a weekend in July and we all agreed that it was the highlight of our trip!
combo	We arrived from Kigali on the Saturday and stayed until Sunday afternoon and managed to pack in two full day Safaris, a boat trip and an evening Safari.
combo	We stayed in the Muyumbu campsite which was very pleasant as they put the tents up for us before we arrived.
combo	There was also plenty of space and equipment to cook on the barbecue.
combo	Definitely better to bring your own food and drink as the cafe at the reception and is inaccessible from the camp site.
combo	It was amazing to see all the different types of wildlife and we were so lucky to see 3 of the big 5 over the two days.
combo	The landscapes are beautiful and there are over 500 different species of birds so it really is an incredible reserve.
combo	Our guide Justus was so knowledgeable and attentive so I would definitely recommend booking with him if you can.
combo	I also suggest paying the little bit extra to be driven in the special safari cars which will help to make your trip that more enjoyable.
combo	You are going to be spending around 8 hours a day in the car so it is always better to be driven by a guide rather than doing it yourself."
combo	"It was my first time on a Safari.
combo	After that, visiting zoos for me is lame.
combo	The best part of this trip was when we saw a herd of elephants!!!"
combo	"Went to the place for 1 day from Kigali, you can go throughout the park in 4-6 hours.
combo	It is very great and highly recommended, quite a lot of various animals and birds that you can see quite near!"
combo	The trip thru this National Park was a full day with many animal sightings.
combo	We hired a guide available at the entrance and she rode with us thru the park and answered questions about the park and the animals.
combo	It’s definately Worth it to get a guide-great experience!
combo	"I was able to spend a day and a half in Akagera.
combo	The best part of the trip was the sunset boat tour.
combo	Our guide Theogen with Akagera Park was amazing!
combo	He was so professional and knowledgeable about the animals, especially the birds.
combo	His passion when talking about the birds, animals and the land is unparalleled and moved me to tears.
combo	You could tell the love and respect he has for the park and it’s animals.
combo	He was even able to take us to see a bull elephant playing in the water.
combo	The lodging and hospitality was wonderful.
combo	Everyone was polite, professional and fun!
combo	Our safari tour guide, Emanuel, with Bizidanny guides was knowledgeable about the animals and the area and he was so much fun to be around!!
combo	I would highly recommend Akagera for anyone who wants to go on safari and see and experience the animals and the land of Rwanda."
combo	"The time we spent in the park was amazing, really nice to explore the different landscapes, the stunning views and the different animals.
combo	Unluckily we didn't see elephants nor lions, but it was still an adventure.
combo	You should know in advance that the streets are mostly in very bad conditions.
combo	The guidance including the numbers on the signs and on the card are totally confusing and most of the time wrong - I recommend the Park to go over it again and refresh it.
combo	The camping side in the north is just perfect with the best views.
combo	Loved it!!"
combo	"AMAZING!
combo	I have been here with other six friends of mine all between 19 and 23 years old.
combo	We spent here two days, we arrived on Saturday morning and left on Sunday afternoon.
combo	I must say that we have been lucky because we had an amazing guide: Justus.
combo	We managed to book our visit only two days before going.
combo	In fact, the first day we had to use our car even if it was not completely suitable for the safari.
combo	However, as soon as we arrived there Justus helped us booking another car for Sunday that made our safari way more enjoyable.
combo	The most incredible thing of this park is the hug variety of landscapes and of animals.
combo	We have been very lucky even because of the animals that we saw (in fact, we even managed to see the elephant that no other visitor saw that weekend).
combo	We even managed to do the night safari, which has been quite intense after a long day of driving, but definitely worth it.
combo	This is the National Park of a thousand hills!
combo	We slept in Muyumbu campsite.
combo	I must say that it was the only campsite available but we have been happy with it because of the location and because of the proximity to the main reception.
combo	We hired two tents but there were many visitors that brought their own.
combo	Since the lodge is self-catered i would strongly recommend future visitors to be self-equipped to feed themselves.
combo	The reception is the only place where it is possible to buy sandwiches.
combo	If you are real adventurers a really enjoyable thing to do is to cook food on the grill provided by each campsite.
combo	I think that this National Park is perfect for people who love birds.
combo	In fact, it has more than 500 species of birds.
combo	The boat trip allows the visitors to visit an island that is mainly inhabited by birds and crocodiles.
combo	Practicalities: - Every visitor should bring a car and a driver in case the Park does not have any available car to provide - I would suggest to book the campsite in advance in order to have a larger choice - Food, food, food.
combo	Apart from the reception, there is no place that sells any kind of food or beverage.
combo	You will spend 8 (if not more) hours per day in the car, there is no problem, but be prepared."
combo	"We had such an amazing visit to the park it is beyond words.
combo	This is not a very commercial ""safari"" per se, which is truly wonderful.
combo	Make sure you hire a guide.
combo	Our guide Justus was so knowledgeable and professional.
combo	He made the difference.
combo	He was able to spot animals from afar and he and our driver went out of their way to find animals!!
combo	We did not see elephants (we kept missing the elephants) or lions, but saw topis, waterbucks, African fish eagles, lilac breasted rollers, impalas, cape buffalos, antelopes, hippos, zebras, giraffes, crocodiles, baboons, warthogs, storks, cranes and others.
combo	The Rwandan government has done an really amazing job in animal conservation.
combo	Two thumbs way up."
combo	"This was my first safari and I was not disappointed.
combo	We saw lots of wildlife, only the lions and elephants did not make an appearance.
combo	It took about 5 hours and next time I would definitely go for the 2 day option - well worth a visit."
combo	"It was my first safari & I was so much excited about it.
combo	I have heard about the Akagera National Park & I must say that it was a great day spend in the wildlife.
combo	Lovely birds (never seen before) along with the Elephant herd (40+ in a group) were the best of the day.
combo	Recommend to arrive & stay in the game lodge a day before, go for the evening boat ride to experience the birds & Ihima lake peace, start safari the next day."
combo	"First time to Akagera Nat Park and loved it.
combo	Highly recommend for all visitors to Rwanda for a slightly cheaper safari experience wth many animal sightings.
combo	Arrive earlymorning to see animals on the move but huge variety seen.
combo	Hippo's, elephants, giraffes, lions, baboons, warthog, impala (many types), monkeys, zebras and more.
combo	Took about 2 1/2hrs to get there from Kigali and need 5-6hrs (min) to see all.
combo	Next time I will do it over 2 days to catch morning and evening time when most animals visible and at leisurely pace.
combo	Animals are closer than I expected.Cafe at park entrance and spots to picnic at designated spots in park.
combo	There are numerous companies who offer driver and 4WD (don't think of car).
combo	Park guide travels in vehicle with you to explain background information.
combo	So good!!
combo	I would wait for wet season to end as drive would be difficult."
combo	"We visited the park during very intensive rain season which made the roads hardly passable at some points, but the wildlife was still there and was amazing.
combo	We were not lucky enough to see the rhinos as we did not make it early enough in the morning, but we saw plenty of zebras, giraffes, wart hogs, impalas, buffalos, birds, waterbucks, some solitary elephants and one big heard, some hippos from very close, etc.
combo	We also did a night game drive which was not a big succes, we only see one giraffe, two zebras, one hippo with its baby out of water and one reedbuck in the bush.
combo	We stayed at Akagera Game Lodge and we enjoyed our time there very much.
combo	Most of the wildlife was up in the north, but also south was nice in the late afternoon."
combo	"We had a fantastic time in Akagera - it was one of the highlights of our holiday in Rwanda.
combo	Our guide Justice, who came along with our driver, was knowledgeable, polite and eagle-eyed.
combo	We saw lions (including two at very close quarters), elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, baboons, monkeys and many more.
combo	The boat trip on Lake Ihema was a particular highlight - such incredible scenery and wildlife."
combo	"My wife and I first heard about Akagera through the African Parks Network; we love what APN does throughout Africa so we decided to go and support their work by visiting the park.
combo	Unfortunately, with all the promotion around this being a “big 5 Park” it left our expectations a bit unmet and here is why: This park is quite narrow east to west so the tracks are more or less designed as a one way route that begins in the southern gate and exits through the northern gate (you must enter/exit this way).
combo	This means if you miss the rhinos when you first enter the park you have virtually no way to loop back to look for them in the evening.
combo	Secondly, it takes a solid 4-6 hours to drive through the park, which you must do to get to the area with the lions, giraffes, etc and sadly much of this drive is terribly boring with long stretches of no animal life.
combo	Thirdly, they are very strict about the gate closing at 7 and if you, like us, aren’t familiar with the park you will likely arrive late.
combo	The guard was very unfriendly and gave us a hard time about letting us out.
combo	Lastly, the rangers said you shouldn’t expect to see any lions unless you do a night game drive, which requires you to stay the night in the park.
combo	All that being said, if you haven’t been on a safari before it’s a good introduction and it supports the conservation work going on there.
combo	If you are more experienced or looking for a great experience, maybe give APN another year or so to further develop the Park."
combo	"Akagera recently became host to the big 5 but spotting most of them is tough.
combo	Don't go with any expectations to see lions, leopard or rhino but elephants are 50/50 and buffalo are practically guaranteed.
combo	You'll almost certainly see hippo, zebra, giraffe, impala and many, many species of birds.
combo	Aside from the animals, Akagera is stunning with plenty of beautiful views of the lakes, mountains and plains all situated within the park."
combo	"1st time to Rwanda and we started at the Akagera park for a 2 day safari.
combo	1st day we saw so many animals.
combo	Baboons, antelope, giraffes and eagles to name a few.
combo	We did not see any elephants that first day.
combo	We saw lots of evidence of them, but no luck.
combo	Day 2 we were lucky and saw elephants, what an experience.
combo	Loved every minute.
combo	Be patient and take a couple of days.
combo	The ruzizi tented lodge was a great place to stay"
combo	Safari was wonderful experience.
combo	We spent the day in the park and were exposed to many of the animals native to Rwanda.
combo	History of park and how it has changed was very interesting.
combo	We did not see the big 5- no Lion or Leopard.
combo	The lions have recently been reintroduced to park several years ago and we were told that they are very shy and evasive.
combo	Other animals are right off the road and you feel like you are part of their environment.
combo	A must if you are visiting Rwanda and want to experience a safari without having to travel far and spend days tracking animals.
combo	"If you are looking for a grand stage safari with lots of animals walking around, this park is not for you.
combo	However if you’re into beautiful landscape with mountains in the backdrop and beautiful lake inside the park, this place is for you.
combo	Animals are there but you have to drive and look for them or if you are lucky, you will see them hanging out on the dirt path).
combo	When we were there we saw baboons, zebras, deer, impalas, warthogs, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a lot of birds... Don’t drive around the park in the middle of the day, that’s when the animals are hiding from the heat.
combo	Start either early in the morning or the afternoon."
combo	"We knew from before that Akagera National Park isn't the best safari if you wanna see the big five but since neither me or my sister had been to safari before we were really happy with our experience.
combo	We saw many giraffes, buffaloes, baboons, different antelopes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles and elephants.
combo	We had a guide, Hermann, with us who was great!
combo	We're so happy we had him with us, he knew exactly where to go in the park and had so much information about the animals.
combo	Overall a great experience!"
combo	"Akagera is a truly beautiful park.
combo	We saw everything from leopards to bush babies to elephants.
combo	Would definitely recommend going on a night safari to see nocturnal animals that can't be seen normally without the expert eye of a guide.
combo	She saw things that we would have never been able to spot!
combo	I would also recommend that if you're looking to see hippos and alligators to go on the boat tour.
combo	Make sure you wear a sweater because it can get cold but it's completely worth it for the beautiful birds and all the hippos you will spot!
combo	The guides my group met were all incredibly knowledgeable and kind people.
combo	They can answer any question you throw at them about the animals, the park, and the landscape.
combo	A day safari is definitely a long haul but we saw all different types of animals and got to see so much of the park and it was so beautiful.
combo	The landscape changes so much throughout the safari so you feel like you've seen so many different things.
combo	You can't look away for two minutes the whole time because you feel like you'll miss out on another amazing view or animal.
combo	Also, I don't think anyone can go to Akagera and not see Baboons.
combo	They are everywhere, and there are so many.
combo	The babies are especially cute riding on the back of their mothers."
combo	"Myself and my mother had two game drives at this National Park, once a short night game driver and the other the day long game drive.
combo	The park is relatively big and scenic and you can come across several animals (in our case we did not see lions and leopards as well as cheetahs and jackals, but we have heard some other travelers spot them!
combo	).The view over the park from the Akagera Game Lodge is superb!.
combo	You may either go for a night game driver organized by the Akagera National Park welcome centre for a sum of USD 40 per person or go for a day game drive with your vehicle.
combo	You may also hire a guide for USD 40 to track animals in the park.
combo	We spotted Grant's zebra, Masai giraffe, African bush elephant, Impalas, Topi Antelopes"
combo	"This was my first African Safari or safari in general and I think Akagaera was a great park.
combo	Myself and 8 others from my university were in Rwanda for a class with our professor, studying ecotourism and conservation.
combo	We were in the park for three days and it was quite a spectacular experience.
combo	From the time we came into the park we saw amazing landscapes and amazing wildlife!
combo	Our experience at the Game Lodge was more than I was expecting.
combo	Overall, the service was good and the accomadations were very pleasant.
combo	Since we were visiting Akagera and the other national parks for our university, we had the opportunity to meet with Jes, who oversees the entire operation of the park.
combo	Learning about how Akagera operates in terms of law enforcement and community development through African Parks (a PPP) was really informative in terms of understanding the transformations the park has undergone in terms of law enforcement and reintroducing species that had been eliminated because of poaching.
combo	We went on a night safari in a 4x4 vehicle which was also amazing.
combo	We left right before sunset and saw lots of baboons, birds, impala, and were lucky enough once it was dark to see a leopard hunting an entire group of impalas.
combo	Our guide, Emmanuel was very knowledgeable and provided with all kinds of informative information.
combo	My classmates and I were always on the edge waiting for more animals to appear.
combo	The bats above us were exciting and there was a spectacular view of the night sky, we could see all the stars, which we don’t have the opportunity to see where we come from in the US.
combo	The day safari was spectacular as well!
combo	Although we drove for 8 hours, the landscape was constantly changing into something new and exciting and we were always at the edge of our seats when we saw new birds and other animals!
combo	I recommend bringing some snacks for the car ride and a good camera!
combo	The beauty of the changing landscapes made the entire day a spectacular adventure.
combo	We saw hippos, impala, dik dik, waterbuck, other antelope species, zebra, water buffalo, warthogs, dozens of different bird species, lots of baboons, elephants (which were amazing!
combo	), and a bunch of other animals.
combo	The only thing I was sad we did not see was giraffes, but it’s alright because we saw elephants and that totally made up for not seeing any giraffes.
combo	Our guide, Bosco, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
combo	Although the lions had been spotted the day before in some of the locations we visited, we did not see any of them (which is okay because they were only reintroduced a few years ago).
combo	We also did not see any of the Rhinos, but that was also okay because we were thrilled to see all the other animals!
combo	The next day we went for a boat ride to see crocodiles and hippos and again had Emmanuel as our guide.
combo	Not only were we the only ones on the lake, which was very pleasant, but we were in awe by the landscape and views of the birds and other animals we spotted.
combo	Overall, Akagera is a great park that supports conservation of wildlife and supports developing and educating the surrounding communities.
combo	This is the only place in Rwanda where you can see beautiful African Savanna.
combo	In addition to the beauty of the park, I am very thankful for meeting the lovely staff at the park and supporting the continued conservation of wildlife!"
combo	Akagera National Park is one of my Favorite Place to visit and I will Recommend it to everyone who wish to enjoy and Explore it's Beauty.
combo	it was a great experience doing a game drive in akagera national park where i saw almost all the big five animals
combo	"We stayed at the lodge and did the The boat ride on Lake Ihema in the evening after checking in.A wonderful and safe experience.
combo	Lots of Hippos, crocs and many birds.
combo	The next day we did the south of the park and on the last day the north and exited from the north gate.
combo	We did not see lion and rhinos but the rest were in plenty specially the elephants.
combo	The fauna and flora and the plains are amazing.
combo	A place not to be missed when in Rwanda"
combo	"We spent 2 nights in the park at the Akagera Lodge.
combo	We went for an afternoon drive for a few hours, then a 9 hour drive the next day, and a morning boat drive the third day.
combo	This isn't the same type of safari as going to South Africa or Botswana, but solid in its own right.
combo	The landscape is spectacular and it was so interesting to see the animals in this type of setting.
combo	The rolling hills in the mud make for a fun drive, but also spectacular views.
combo	We didn't see all of the big five, but the drives weren't about that.
combo	There was certainly no shortage of amazing animals, but the landscape was awesome.
combo	The boat drive was an excellent opportunity to see birds, crocs, and hippos.
combo	We also got to see a herd of elephants walk along the shore line, it was something out of a movie.
combo	The country really has a hidden gem in this park.
combo	The guides are also incredibly knowledgeable and so willing to answer questions.
combo	Spending 9 hours with someone, you really talk about anything and everything!
combo	What a great experience."
combo	"You can not compare Akagera National Park to other game parks in Africa.
combo	If you want to see lots of animals then head to South Africa, Kenya or Tanzania.
combo	Akagera is nice for those that live in Kigali as it is an easy drive there.
combo	But you spend a lot of time driving and not seeing that much.
combo	I have been 3 times.
combo	Saw 1 elephant the first time and 2 the 2nd time.
combo	Saw 1 lion the 2nd trip.
combo	Have never seen rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas.
combo	Camping is rustic but the best of the cheapest accommodation there.
combo	The middle of the road accommodation is Akagera Game Lodge but it has terrible food.
combo	Most expensive are the tented lodges, I am yet to try those.
combo	We will be back for sure (we bought the annual pass, so why not!
combo	in search of seeing one of the rhinos!
combo	See more travel reviews on facebook at 'Living in Rwanda - Ask Annette'."
combo	"Only 2hours and 13min(105.1KM) form Kigali to Akagera National Park home of the largest game collection in Rwanda the park is home of Hippo, Elephant, Baboon, Zebra,Giraffe the park is filled with Swamp, Rivers, and lakes which allows the largest diversity of wildlife."
combo	"I visited Akagera twice over a span of a month while I was studying abroad in Kigali in the spring of 2017.
combo	I had previously done safaris in Tanzania and South Africa, so do not go in expecting the volume of animals that you would see on the open plains of the Serengeti or Masai Mara.
combo	That being said, it is the most beautiful safari-focused national park I have been to in Africa with the rolling hills and many lakes that it has.
combo	Remind yourself that this is not a zoo and try not to get frustrated at the park or your guide if you do not see something that you had hoped to.
combo	One day I saw four elephants (one mock charging our car), giraffes, hippos, buffalo, and at least six types of antelope, and another day the roads became so muddy we had to cut our safari short and return to Kigali.
combo	Akagera Game Lodge is worth the quality that you get (especially for the views).
combo	Stayed there both times, but if you have the money I have heard that Rusizi is worth the splurge.
combo	We were lucky to see a mother rhino and its baby just two weeks after the rhinos were reintroduced into the park (supposedly were the first ones to see the baby) but the mother would not leave the road and we had to turn around and couldn't go to the North (where the majority of the wildlife is) because of it!
combo	Rhinos are extremely agressive and protective of their young and one scientist has already been killed in the park this year by one of them.
combo	Also did a night drive which was disappointing in terms of wildlife but still a fun experience.
combo	Saw two different types of owls, a spotted hyena, two hippos out of water, and some other species.
combo	Definitely recommend getting a guide and a 4 x 4 as it will make your experience much more enjoyable.
combo	Amazing how much the park has rebounded since its area was reduced by more than 50% after the Genocide."
combo	We traveled here with 3 families (10 kids).
combo	Had a wonderful time.
combo	Highly suggest an evening boat trip.
combo	Innocent is a very good guide/captain.
combo	A bit difficult to see wife life this time of year with the tall grass after the rainy season.
combo	"We spent 3 days in Akagera National Park.
combo	The moment we drove through the gates we began to see wildlife, including giraffes near the reception centre.
combo	We hired a free lance guide, George, who accompanied us on a 7.5 hour safari, which was well worth it as we toured a large portion of the park.
combo	The terrain changes throughout the park, ranging from plains, wetlands and mountainous areas, all beautiful.
combo	We observed zebras, giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, hippos, numerous antelope species, numerous bird species, the list goes on, and the crowning glory, a leopard!
combo	We also went on the boat safari, with boat captain Theogen.
combo	This 1.5 hour tour is well worth it, as Theogen taught us what the bird species were and we were fortunate to view 15 elephants, a crocodile and numerous hippopotamus.
combo	We also went on the night safari, almost immediately viewing elephants and another leopard.
combo	Though the night safari was good, I would choose the full day and boat safari first if you have limited time.
combo	Be sure to bring a boxed lunch for the full day safari and plenty of water."
combo	"I think for a first timer at such safaris this is quite a good place to try.
combo	The variety of wild life and change of scenery and landscape is breathtaking.
combo	It’s a long trip if you go south to north, takes up to 6 hours, with only two far apart stops with bathroom facilities which could be an issue as it’s generally viewed dangerous to get out of the car.
combo	So go easy on the liquids.
combo	Get a good 4x4 as it’s going to be a bumpy ride which is part of this magnificent experience but you still need a car that can handle proper off-reading and has a decent AC, you want to keep your windows closed if you’re not viewing anything Because of the flies and insects.
combo	We had no problems with these, but others reported not-so-nice experiences with horseflies.
combo	Zebras and all sorts of antelope and baboons are in abundance and you’ll bump into more of them than you’d probably hoped for.
combo	Sometimes you see animals that are a bit far off the route, and you can’t get close, that’s a bit of a bummer, happened to us with Giraffes.
combo	Lots of hippos too, we got lucky with one out of the water taking a stroll.
combo	No luck seeing a rhino or a lion, but there’s only few of them so you got to be really lucky to catch one of those.
combo	We were lucky to bump into elephants.
combo	There will be times when you would drive for an hour and see nothing.
combo	That’s normal but people expect to have uninterrupted viewing of different animals and that’s not the case.
combo	It’s a big part (small in comparison to others, but you’re still driving for 170km or so) Get an early start so that you’re not short on time, the exit closes at 6pm."
combo	"I came here on a day-trip through a tour company (Individual Tours - Aloys).
combo	It was pretty underwhelming.
combo	I saw some wildlife: zebras, impalas, warthogs.
combo	Other fauna mostly at a distance (tip: bring binoculars).
combo	It just was not very impressive nor justified the price of the tour ($300).
combo	And forget about the Big Five - saw buffaloes only.
combo	No elephants, no rhinos.
combo	We spent about four hours in the park; maybe that's the fault of the tour guide.
combo	Anyway, I would not recommend.
combo	The golden monkeys in Volcanoes was a much better experience."
combo	"Rwanda isn't famous for its safaris, and I had been to parks in Kenya and South Africa already, so I wasn't expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised!
combo	There is a diverse variety of animals inside the park, and it's actually nice that it's not as well-known, because then the park isn't as busy.
combo	We saw all sorts of animals, including a herd of elephants.
combo	The landscape is different than other countries, as there's a lot more trees and woods, but you still see hippos, antelopes, impalas, elephants, zebras, crocodiles, etc.
combo	There are only 19 lions, so you don't see those, but maybe you will in a few years!"
combo	"This park is a convenient day trip from Kigali and there is a tarmac road all the way.
combo	After the 1994 genocide (when the park was neglected and which was a refuge for folks fleeing the violence) the park has been regenerated.
combo	Although shrunk to half it original size, there is plenty of game - elephants, giraffes, hippos, warthogs, deer, baboons, along with lions and rhinos.
combo	They have the big 5, but not on the scale one would see in Tanzania or Botswana.
combo	The park is well managed and policed.
combo	We went in Oct 2017 mid week and there were only 3 safari vehicles around.
combo	Overall an incredible experience.
combo	Highly recommend a visit."
combo	"I went to this safari and was amazing , in part , because we have a great local guide .
combo	You get dirty , yes , but is an experience for life .
combo	Quite place , the animals are in peace and well treated .
combo	Take your best photograph machine , and not your phone to take pictures .
combo	You will need at least a 200mm lent .
combo	Go for it !"
combo	"Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s largest protected wetland and only protected savannah reserve.
combo	It is teeming with a diverse range of wildlife and an even more varied landscape.
combo	Don’t miss the sunset boat ride…so many birds to see, and hippos!
combo	Beware of the Tsetse flies - don’t wear blue!"
combo	"I went on a two day safari to the Akagera national park with Golden Rwanda tours and safaris.
combo	Frank the owner was my guide and it was my first safari experience.
combo	It couldn't have been any better !
combo	I did a boat trip on the Ihema lake and with te car we did a trip to the whole of the park.
combo	Frank and another guide of the park gave a lot of information about the animals I saw and the legends where also very nice to hear.
combo	I saw a lot of animals except the lions but I went with an open mind and was just blown away by the beauty of the landscape, the views and any animal I saw and I did see lots of animals !!
combo	The stay at the Akagera lodge hotel was excellent too.
combo	But most hartwarming was learning to know Frank, a generous person with a great hart for nature and people.
combo	And also a good price for what you get!
combo	You can discuss your wishes, your budget,.. and I'm sure he will offer you a good price for a custome made arrangement."
combo	"Before our group left Rwanda we used our down time to head to the Akagera National Park, that was is just a couple of hours from Kigali, the last 30 minutes or so on the dirt road.
combo	We did a day safari drive which got off to a slow start when the driver (we used two 4x4s provided by the park) forgot to gas up the jeep!
combo	The drive itself was fantastic though, with so much to see as the place, despite being reduced in size, is huge!
combo	We saw the elephants among lots of the other animals, but missed the lions and rhinos.
combo	Some of our group also took a boat tour on the lake and saw the crocs that we hadn't seen from the jeep.
combo	All in all, it was a great experience, altho it was a very long drive, around 9 hours in all, and the last couple of hours it was as if the driver was looking for something specific but hadn't communicated that to us.
combo	It would have been nice to have more information about the park, the animals, where they go and why etc, but the park itself was fantastic and I'd definitely recommend it."
combo	"Akagera park is a reasonable drive from Kigali.
combo	We stayed at Ruzizi tented lodge, which is in the south section of the park.
combo	Apparently the larger herds of animals are in the northern section, which probably takes about 6 hours.
combo	We did not have that much time, as we had to catch our plane home.
combo	You must have four wheel drive.
combo	We got onto one trail that obviously had many elephants on it, and had knocked down a lot of trees onto the path.
combo	We had to do some creative driving to find our way around, then locate the path again.
combo	We saw the Blue Turaco bird, lilac breasted roller with a nest in a hollow tree, Rothschild Giraffe, water buck, bush bucks, roan, impala, vervet monkeys, brown parrots, African green pigeons, and fish eagles.
combo	There were quite a bunch of tsetse flies.The birds made up for it though!"
combo	"Akagera National Park is unique not only in it's topography but also in what it represents to the Community of Animals and Villagers that surround it.
combo	All the money spent goes back to support the Animals as well as the Villagers.
combo	I visited 2 weeks ago and had a driver arranged for me through a travel company called Inspired Journeys, who helped me create my African trip that included a Safari in Akagera National Park.
combo	JP, my driver, brought me from Kigali to Akagera.
combo	Inpired Journeys also hired a guide for me as well, Venuste Ndungutse, who is one of the many Akagera Community Freelance Guides.
combo	The Park created this program to get the surrounding Villages more involved with the sustainability and success of the Park as well as to promote Cultural activities of the communities.
combo	Venuste and JP were so amazing in not only their enthusiasm for the Park and the animals but Venuste's knowledge of all things Conservation and Ecological.
combo	I so enjoyed my 1 and 1/2 days seeing and photographing so many different animals, from a variety of Antelopes, Giraffes, Zebras, Hippos, African Cape Buffalo, Baboons, Velvet Monkeys, Elephants to the very shy Black Rhino... but I most enjoyed learning about the history of the Park, the animals and all the details of the environment the animals live in.
combo	Venuste knew all the plants and trees as well as amazing details of all the animals.
combo	And he explained how the Park maintains such a healthy environment for them.
combo	I was lucky enough to have an encounter with Akagera's most famous resident, Mutware, a 50-60 year old elephant who has an infamously grumpy side to him but is quite endearing at the same time.
combo	To my amazement we saw the elusive Black Rhino twice!
combo	They had just been reintroduced in May so a sighting is pretty wonderful...and the 2nd time, we were lucky enough to take pictures.
combo	This park has low mountains that give you wonderful access to vistas that are not seen in other Safari Parks.
combo	It has swamps and Savannahs too.
combo	But i think what made the experience so wonderful were my Guide, Venuste and Driver, JP...Their knowledge and excitement were infectious...This is a must see Park when in Rwanda.
combo	And know that the money you spend on both Park and Guide are going to make both the Park and Villages more sustainable and prosperous.
combo	I hope to return to Rwanda and Akagera is a must visit again for me."
combo	"Because I live in Kigali, this is our go-to Big5 game park to relax and enjoy nature.
combo	it is absolutely the greenest, lushest park I have ever seen, especially when you go in the rainy season (less game viewing, but spectacular scenery and lower pricing).
combo	The park has savanna's and lots of lakes, but also bush and hills.
combo	There is so much food for all the animals, it must be heaven for them.
combo	Loads of crocs and hippos, antilopes (topi, impala, duikers, eland), monkeys and also elephant, buffaloes and lions.
combo	The elusive black rhinos and leopards are more difficult to spot because they hide so well but yes, they are there as well!
combo	In the south there is the lovely Ruzizi tented lodge, and during the dry season, head north to Karenge Bushcamp, a temporary camp for a more rustic immersive experience.
combo	Both offer terrific food in and will offer a picnic lunch while you are in the park.
combo	And if you leave early from the camp, you can watch hyena and lion at dawn before anyone else gets there.
combo	Not that there will be many people anywhere, because it is still an undetected gem!
combo	You will need your own 4WD though, because the park is an adventurous self-drive.
combo	If you want, you can hire a local guide to come with you (in your car)."
combo	"I never thought that I'd make it to Africa, but I always wanted to go.
combo	Akagera is a national park (unlike private parks) so all the proceeds go back to the park and it's rangers, upkeep etc.
combo	I was only there for 1 day, therefore only able to make 1 trip out.
combo	Nonetheless, it was an AMAZING experience!
combo	Seeing animals in their native habitats and in their native lands was moving.
combo	Because I only made one trip out, the animals that I saw were limited (the lions live to the north), but impressive nonetheless: elephant, impalas, water buffalo, hippos, tons of monkeys, birds, topee (spelling?
combo	), zebras.
combo	I would love a chance to go back!
combo	We hired a driver with a ""safari"" land rover (the top lifted up) from our hotel in Kigali.
combo	We then had a local guide from the park with us for our 4-5 hour excursion."
combo	"Yes, you might drive longer to see the animals but the views are great and my guide was top-notch and very knowledgeable.
combo	Saw all but lions.
combo	Do not miss out on the community activities: beer making and honey tasting, fabulous!"
combo	"This is a fairly small game reserve in comparison to the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Mara in Kenya so expect to see smaller numbers of animals.
combo	There is dense vegetation, making it difficult to see many of the animals up close.
combo	We did see several types of antelopes, a leopard, zebras, hippos, hyenas and buffalo.
combo	We also saw giraffes and elephants, but from a distance.
combo	You can only enter from the south, but the north end has more animals."
combo	"Great day!!
combo	We hired a car and driver for the day from Kigali.
combo	You'll need an extra seat in the car for the guide from Akagera.
combo	Left Kigali by 4:30 am because we wanted to be early in the park 👍.
combo	""Justice"" was the name of our guide at the park and he was awesome!
combo	Very knowledgeable and fun!
combo	Ask for him!
combo	He even took pics with our phone through binoculars so it worked like a close up lens!
combo	We saw baboons, giraffes, zebras, hippos, elephants, Cape buffalo, all kinds of antelope and birds plus so much more- no big 5, it was the big 20!
combo	From south to north, we spent eight hours driving and looking.
combo	Bring water and snacks (chapati from Simba lasted nicely) and there are a few bathroom stops in the park (bring your own tissue).
combo	Left park at 3, dinner on way home, so definitely doable in a day!!"
combo	"Akagera National Park was a TREAT after a long week.
combo	I really enjoyed our tour guide and the entrance process seemed easy enough, Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the park and was excited to share information about the region and animals in the park."
combo	"We stayed for two nights at Ruzizi Tented lodge and restricted our visit to the middle and Southern areas of the park during our stay.
combo	He had hired a 4x4 vehicle for our holiday and used this to self-drive around the park.
combo	It should be said that the dense nature of the woodland in this area of the park means that wildlife viewing is at a premium and you don’t get the prolific number of animals that you might see say in Etosha Park in Namibia but when you do see animals it makes it very special.
combo	During our self-drives we saw Zebra, Buffalo, Elephant, Hippo, Crocodile, various antelopes, Warthog and many varied birdlife.
combo	Unfortunately we missed Lion, Rhino and Giraffe.
combo	We also purchased an early morning 90 minute guided boat trip of the lake and saw hippo, crocodile and numerous birds at very close quarters.
combo	This was excellent.
combo	Our other guided trip was a night drive in the southern part of the park and the highlights were Spotted Hyena, Owls, Rabbits, Impala and Baboons.
combo	The guide was excellent in explaining animal behaviour during our 2.5 hour drive.
combo	There are a number of things that need to be borne in mind.
combo	1.
combo	Although the dirt roads around the park entrance/reception are graded, the condition of the roads deteriorate quite quickly the further north you go and even some of the minor routes in the south end of the park are very rough to drive on.
combo	2.
combo	Although the maximum speed in the park is 40km/hour in reality you spend a lot of time in low gear doing 10/20km/hour.
combo	A journey to the north of the park would take a minimum of 5/6 hours, this is where the larger herds of animals are located.
combo	3.
combo	We would definitely recommend a 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser or equivalent high clearance vehicle (which we had).
combo	Some of the pot holes around the park are horrendous and serious damage could occur with conventional car frames/tyres.
combo	4.
combo	The tsetse flies around the denser undergrowth parts in the park are horrible and pretty vicious.
combo	We kept windows closed and aircon on for the most part.
combo	We enjoyed in stay in the park which was enhanced by our stay at Ruzizi Tented lodge and it was an excellent way to finish off our stay in this memorable country."
combo	"This park has an idyllic setting and has loads on offer.
combo	The park has recently introduced lion and black rhino, thus hosts the big 5.
combo	This is not the only reason to visit the park as it boasts a large variety of abundant game.
combo	Lake Ihema has one of the largest concentration of hippo in Africa.
combo	Large herds of buffalo roam the park.
combo	There are 14 lakes in the park as well as swamps and grasslands.
combo	This park is fast gaining a must see reputation under the careful guidance of African Parks.
combo	This park is more than a daytrip and an overnight stay is certainly a must if you want to enjoy all activities on offer."
combo	"My group of four visited Akagera National Park as part of a 13 day safari with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our guide, Sam Elliott, took us on a late afternoon game drive in the southern section of the park and an early morning game drive in the northern section of the park.
combo	Sam has a keen knowledge of all of the wildlife, flora, and fauna in the area.
combo	Our vehicle was perfect for animal viewing.
combo	It was a modified Nissan SUV, plenty large and comfortable for the entire safari.
combo	The top popped up for easy wildlife viewing.
combo	Also, there was a refrigerator in the vehicle which Sam kept filled with water, soda, and juices.
combo	In the southern part of the park, we saw lots of baboons, zebras, warthogs, topi, impala, waterbuck, and more.
combo	We also saw one rhino!
combo	The topography is rolling hills with some forest.
combo	In the northern part of the park, we saw the same animals listed above (with the exception of the rhino) as well as giraffes, buffalo, elephants, antelopes, and more.
combo	The topography is savannah grasslands.
combo	Both the southern and northern parks of the park are a birder’s paradise.
combo	We also took an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Ihema.
combo	We saw many hippos and some crocodiles.
combo	Again, this was a birder’s paradise as there was a plethora of water fowl.
combo	My favorite birds were the crested crane and yellow-bodies weaver.
combo	Akagera National Park did not disappoint us; we enjoyed it tremendously due to the beautiful scenery, plentiful and varied wildlife, and fantastic guide."
combo	Our favorite place in Rwanda to camp and enjoy the wilderness.
combo	now with the big 5 and plenty of other animals and different landscape.
combo	very well managed park.
combo	"The visit to Akegera park was good, but the guide was not at all well prepared, not equipped with proper necessary materials.
combo	Our vehicle was wedged in the mud and we waited there for almost 3 hours, no one came to rescue us from the national park.
combo	The guide was unable to call his management as the Radio he had was out of order and his mobile phone was not functioning.
combo	My colleague called the park but none of the staff was available to receive the call, store in charge have the call at last but never send us the vehicle.
combo	We received help from one of the visitors.
combo	Inadequate management, not trained staff."
combo	"I had a very good visit last August to Akagera National Park.
combo	The guides were very good and knowledgeable.
combo	I learned a lot.
combo	I saw first hand elephants in the wild with their defenses (in the zoo, they no longer have them).
combo	We were almost attacked by an alpha elephant, because the car behind us got too close and not quiet enough, and we escaped just in time.
combo	They had recently reintroduced lions, and are hoping to introduce other species from other parts of Africa.
combo	The park also has a few lakes, which enhance the scenery.
combo	This was an all-day experience.
combo	This was my first time seeing such a big elephant.
combo	It made for a fun, memorable experience.
combo	It was my first safari, and I am glad I did it there.
combo	My only problem, was that the entrance fee is only for Rwandans, and then for foreigners; in other countries in Africa (South Africa, Senegal, Cameroon,....) they do have an entrance fee for locals, then for other Africans, and for non-Africans to encourage tourism among Africans, UA, etc."
combo	"We visited for a day from Kigali, leaving our hotel at 5am and returning at 4pm.
combo	The cost of a driver for the two of us was $200, plus you have to pay park entrance of $40/person and $40 for a guide.
combo	So total cost of $160/person.
combo	We booked this through our hotel.
combo	We were lucky to see a herd of about 15 elephants right by the side of the road.
combo	We also saw loads of giraffe, zebra, plus crocodiles, hippos, warthog and many others.
combo	No big cats or rhinos but most other animals are there.
combo	Be warned the roads aren't great and there are some longish stretches where there are never any animals, but the patches around definitely make up for it.
combo	Worth the early start."
combo	"...and it was ok.
combo	Though a higher 4x4 is preferable.
combo	Ours were low which the car company said was no problem with in Akagera.
combo	Roads there, even the 'main roads' are bumpy and there are high bits on a lot of parts.
combo	After rainfall you sure need better tyres than normal ones.
combo	Shame on me i guess.. Me and my partner decided to camp 2 nights there and spend our time in the park ourselves.
combo	We really enjoyed it but the camping sites are not worth paying for.
combo	$25 per person and night for pitching a tent is basically what you get.
combo	Toilets on sites were disgusting (see picture if you dare.
combo	A warning to sensitive people!
combo	Said there were firepits for fires if there was need for it.
combo	Found pits though the pieces of wood were too big to start a fire with conventional methods.
combo	Bring an axe if you want to chop it yourself or ask the rangers maybe.
combo	Not too much of a hassle though but the toilets were the biggest disappointment as you are basically forced to go back to reception or do you business outside in the park.
combo	Toilets were seats with holes in the ground, as seen on pic, but i think they were so full they had reached the brim so to speak.
combo	Tsetse flies everywhere!
combo	Made the whole experience a bit off as well as the campsites.
combo	All in all it was a nice experience seeing the animals!
combo	Lots of hippos and zebras, baboons and more.
combo	And the rangers were incredibly helpful, not only when we got stuck in the mud one morning after a night of crazy rainfall, but also when meeting up with other groups.
combo	Tipping you off where they've seen animals and where they're heading off to.
combo	So they made up for everything really.
combo	And do not miss out on the boat ride!
combo	Went with the guide Theogen and he was awesome!
combo	Very knowledgeable about the animals.
combo	We were lucky enough to be the only two on that particular ride.
combo	Me and my partner likes birds and he knew a lot(!
combo	about them which was more fun for us.
combo	Oh, make sure to buy a little something from the kids outside the south entrance of Akagera National Park.
combo	2000 franc for handmade models of houses, cars and cool stuff.
combo	Made from whatever they can find i guess.
combo	Bought a well nice car with wheels made from cut out flip flops.
combo	Awesome stuff!
combo	They are a bit pushy when you stop but who can blame them.
combo	They are not too forceful though so i recommend people to stop and have a look.
combo	Nice souvenirs!"
combo	"It is located in East of Rwanda.
combo	It is very attractive by its flora and fauna different with others from other regions of Rwanda.
combo	Recently they introduced lions and they planned to introduce also rhinos as currently they are not.
combo	So After It will have five big animals.
combo	It has security but be carefully with the wild animals like black mamba, lions, hippos, buffalo.
combo	I recommend you not to approach them.
combo	It is good to visit it in drying season (Mid December to Mid February and Mid May to September).
combo	But If you like raining season no problem you can visit because temperature is favorable but you need to have rain jacket.
combo	It beautiful.
combo	It has also many beautiful lakes but not swim in as they are crocodiles in .
combo	I recommend you to visit it.
combo	It is good to go there in the morning."
combo	"This was my first safari and Akagera is still rebuilding to compete with the parks in Kenya and Tanzania.
combo	With that being said the staff and guides were great and we spent a wonderful day exploring the park.
combo	We got up close and personal with herd of elephants, saw never-ending amounts of Zebras, a Hippo family, one crocodile, many amazing birds, and many Impalas.
combo	We missed the Zebra's because they were in the north end of the park at the time and we did not have time to visit them."
combo	been to this park in august 2016 and really loved the park for the diversity and incredible number of wild life and bird viewing.
combo	its almost 3 hours drive frome kigali and definately a worthwhile one.
combo	boat trips along the shore was really amazing and delightful to watch some acquatic sightnings.i found its very easy to spot the wild life here probaby because of lack of preadorts which indeed gives very relaxed and close experince of wildlifes.
combo	"A beautiful place.
combo	Great guide provided by the park HQ and we self-drove with him as a passenger from South to North gate in a day.
combo	Our kids (7 and 9) loved it.
combo	Great sightings of elephants, hippos, zebras, giraffes, crocs, all kinds of deer, birds and the like.
combo	Didn't spot any lions but were busy all day spotting and passed thru various types of scenery.
combo	Guide stopped us for lunch on an open plain with great views of the giraffes.
combo	Awesome."
combo	We have been in akagera for 4days and we liked both lodge and park itself service was very nice and we appreciated everything we received.
combo	"One of the most special (and oldest) national parks I have ever visited.
combo	A jewel located in Rwanda, with a huge chance to experience the wildlife from very close by.
combo	The trip from Kigali down to Akagera is also very worthwhile as it leads through the beautiful landscape of Rwanda.
combo	Best to visit in the rainy season, when animals are out and visible."
combo	"We spent a night and we have a wonderful time.
combo	We got to see elephants, jirafs, zebras, hipos, cocodriles, bambus, bufalos.
combo	The boat trip was worth it too.
combo	We went with Uber Luxes Safaris, totally recommende"
combo	"What a day spent at Akagera National Park!
combo	We rented a safari car for a day and it was wonderful.
combo	We saw all sorts of animals from giraffes, zebras, my favorite animal by far, Hippos, and many others.
combo	Exploring all the wildlife was amazing.
combo	This is a trip worth taking once in your life for sure.
combo	The interation you get by being close to this wildlife is hard to describe in words.
combo	We were a group of 4, visited around June 2015 and had a blast.
combo	if you wanna see elephants, make sure you go very early ( 5-6am), which is the only type of animal we missed.
combo	Cannot wait to go back especially now that they have lions."
combo	I much enjoyed the lions and big troops/groups of elephant.....landscapes of this park makes it unique + lakes
combo	"You need at least a full day here because the wildlife has to be sought out, and you have to be patient.
combo	The community guide was excellent (you can ask for one of these rather than one actually employed by the park), and he certainly knew his wildlife - he was passionate and enthusiastic.
combo	Three years ago it was difficult to spot wildlife because they were not used to humans, but this is improving now, and you have much better photo opportunities.
combo	The park management are forward-thinking - their maps and guides are worth buying - they have introduced lions - they are introducing rhinos right now - and giving you the option of asking for a community guide is a really good idea.
combo	I have the greatest admiration for what they are doing."
combo	"Amazing experience!
combo	Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocs, eagle, buffalos, impalas, monkeys, baboons, and much more.
combo	Plus amazing vistas!
combo	Pack plenty of water, snacks, and bug spray and you'll have an incredible time."
combo	"I absolutely love this park.
combo	It's beautiful, has stunning views and we saw tons of amazing animals!
combo	I'd recommend getting a guide if you're not familiar with the park.
combo	Camping is also a really cool option if you're into that.
combo	Very close to the capital of Rwanda, Kigali."
combo	"If it's your first time on a safari and in Africa, this may be a decent choice, otherwise it may be considered just a nice place for a picnic, as long as you don't plan on seeing many animals"
combo	"Akagera won't give you the extensive animal variety of the neighbouring countries or South African parks, but the number of animals is increasing rapidly.
combo	Limits on the predator numbers despite the successful introduction of a lion pack supports this and we saw large numbers of elephant, zebra, antelope, hippo, birds, some giraffe and a serval"
combo	"Not a large park by Kenya or S.A. standards but interesting none the less.
combo	Lots of animals and except for rhino, has most of the things that people have on their priority list.
combo	There are relatively few lions since they were only recently re-introduced and I am told that rhinos will be reintroduced soon.
combo	I didn't see elephants although we saw plenty of signs of them and we visited as a day trip from Kigali so we were only in he park about 6 hours and I am sure we would have seen them if we had been there a little longer.
combo	Since we were not there at night, the likelihood of seeing hyenas and leopards were not very good and we didn't spot them.
combo	Lots of beautiful lakes and beautiful habitat for the animals.
combo	It was well worth the 3 hr trek to get there.
combo	BTW, the scenery along the way was beautiful and you get a good feel for the daily lives of the people living in the villages along the way."
combo	"A great park with abundant wildlife and birdlife.
combo	The hotel staff were very friendly, the food was good and the rooms clean and well maintained."
combo	"We visited Akagera in the dry season and stayed in the south of the NP at the game lodge on top of the hill, offering a great view.
combo	South of the NP was pretty empty so we drove up north and found an amazing number of animals near the lakes.
combo	Wonderfull view, highly recommended!"
combo	"This was my first safari experience in Rwanda.
combo	I have experienced many, many safaris in the country of Kenya.
combo	It is not a fair comparison to make between the two countries, but sufficient it to say that I did thoroughly enjoy my experience in Akagera.
combo	I would revisit this national park again.
combo	Also, the lodge located in the national park offered incredible accommodations for the price."
combo	"It's like a zoo Not like a safari in Kenya or Tanzania or South Africa .
combo	There, we are told that there is a lions and did not see anything This is a second time I visit the park and the last time."
combo	"I have visited Akagera several times and each time I see something new; diferent animals, lots of birds, gone on a boat trip, a night ride, stayed in camps and lodges.
combo	Really worth visiting"
combo	I am glad that I was had the opportunity to visit Akagera.
combo	The accommodations are good and we did see many animals on our morning safari.
combo	"Although we had heared that Akagera doesn't have the biggest nor widest wild life selection, we were quite lucky and saw several elephants, and all the other typical wild life.
combo	You can drive for quite some time without seeing any animal and a big part of the park is forest/higher vegetation which doesn't make it feel like the typical safari.
combo	However, you get wonderful views on landscape and wildlife"
combo	"My first safari.
combo	Compared to what I read about Kenya and other more established parks this park is not as dramatic.
combo	Didn't care.
combo	Saw plenty in the 2 days in the park.
combo	Our driver was fabulous and the accompanying park ranger pointed out a ton of things we would have just driven by..
combo	If you have 2'days, spend one on ground and the other go out on the boat tour to see the birds along the shoreline.."
combo	"We travelled for 3 weeks in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	I think I loved Akagera the best because, besides seeing all of the animals I wanted to see, it offers all types of terrain: grasslands, hills, forests.
combo	It was so beautiful!"
combo	"One day game drive in Akagera.
combo	We spent 2 hours driving up to the North of the park where most animals are during the dry season (August).
combo	We saw lots of birds, primates and different species of antelope on the way.
combo	Once in the North we spotted elephant, giraffe, zebra, hippos and buffalo.
combo	Although animals are not in herds (like the MM) it was still worth a visit.
combo	The animals are growing in numbers and the park relies on visitors to support with conservation.
combo	The guides are very knowledgable and are able to spot the animals for you."
combo	Even just one day at Akagera National Park will leave you speechless - the diversity of wildlife and landscapes is truly astounding.
combo	The boat tour is a must - as is a stay at the Ruzizi Tented Lodge.
combo	Safari at its best!
combo	"This is a park oriented on a North-South axis, where you enter from the South and exit through the North.
combo	Most of the game were in the North.
combo	It was the dry season and we saw quite a bit including two of Big Four that are found here -- buffalo and elephant.
combo	The lion and cheetah eluded us.
combo	We also took a boat tour and saw crocodiles and numerous hippos, not to mention a wide variety of birds.
combo	All species of antelopes plus giraffes, zebras, warthogs, baboons, monkeys and other animals were all around.
combo	During our two day stay, we saw just one other vehicle with tourists.
combo	We felt the park had been specially reserved for our personal visit!
combo	No rush, no crowds - the place was ours.
combo	Very informative welcome center with a good gift shop and splendid views.
combo	We stayed at an eco-lodge on a lake.
combo	All facilities except for Wi-Fi but there were many insects, despite staying in netted rooms.
combo	Beautiful setting.
combo	My first safari and I enjoyed it thoroughly and becoming an animal spotter in the process!"
combo	"Very interesting to visit Akagera National Park, you seen Buffalo, elephants, Impala, giraffes Enjoying the fresh air and joking around the well planted trees full of Animals"
combo	"Absolutely cool place, where you can drive around in your own car and watch animals in the wild.
combo	We didn't get to go all the way up north (too long a drive with a small child), where we probably would have seen more animals, but we still got to see Water Buffalo, Giraffe, Different kinds of monkeys, antilopes and birds.
combo	The only thing lacking is accommodation (not tents) in the northern part of the park, so you don't have to drive a whole day (from south to north to south) to see the whole park.
combo	Definitely recommendable."
combo	"Akagera is an awesome park.
combo	We hired a driver in Kigali and spent 2 days and 1 night in the park.
combo	We were there in the dry season so most of the big animals were on the north end of the park.
combo	Early morning is a must .
combo	We were the first out our second day ,so saw elephants, giraffs, water bucks, impalas, cap buffalo herds, zebra and many others.
combo	Go during the week when there is less traffic.
combo	The animals move away from the roads when there are lots of cars and you can't drive off the dirt roads.
combo	We hired a guide for $30 us and he knew every bird and animal and had eyes like a hawk.
combo	Great investment.
combo	You can self drive if you have high clearance vehicle.
combo	South gate is entry north gate is exit only."
combo	"We went in the dry season and somehow hadn't read that the wildlife would be up north in the wetlands yet another 3 1/2 hours drive away on bumpy sandy tracks.
combo	We were hugely disappointed.
combo	We had driven so much we didn't have the energy to go the extra distance and had also booked and paid for our accommodation in the south.
combo	We went on a fabulous sunset boat trip and saw loads of birds, crocodiles and hippos.
combo	A photographers paradise!
combo	We took a half day self drive tour with a guide, but saw very little apart from baboons and antelopes.
combo	There were so many horse flies we had to shut our windows to avoid being bitten to death.
combo	Our aircon broke so we boiled and gave up.
combo	I would recommend going in the rainy season."
combo	"I just finished my second visit to Akagera and the while I loved it the first time, the improvements have been incredible!
combo	More animals everywhere, better facilities.
combo	Lions reintroduced in 2015 and rumors that Rhinos are coming soon.
combo	Recommend that you go with Eagle-ride.com.
combo	Jean Marie and Morgan will take great care of you."
combo	"Akagera Park is not crowded like in the parks in Kenya or Tanzania, it is different and much better to enjoy wild animals."
combo	"I stayed for three days at the Akagera Park and saw the lions, elephants, monkeys etc.
combo	Every animal I wanted to see It was amazing"
combo	"I've visited this park four times and each time is a little different.
combo	It's a VERY long ride through the park (6 hours) plus your travel back and forth to Kigali.
combo	Your best bet is to stay at Akagera Game Lodge or Rizizi Tented Lodge and leave early in the morning.
combo	The earlier the better because as soon as it starts warming up the animals (especially the cool ones) go in hiding.
combo	Spring is a better time to visit, but there are always many animals.
combo	Don't expect to see a lion or other large cat and elephants are rare (once in four visits).
combo	So as long as you go with tempered expectations and the realization that it's a very long day You'll love it!"
combo	"Visited on a tour with a group of friends.
combo	Whilst the roads are dusty and rustic and it takes a while to get around, it's worth it for its animals - large planes of zebra, Impala giraffe, elephant.
combo	Last year they introduced Lions which whilst are difficult to spot provide added interest"
combo	"The trip took the entire day.
combo	I hired a guide based out of Kigali where I was staying and we drove up early to arrive at the park by 8am.
combo	There a safari guide from the park joined us in our vehicle.
combo	He was knowledgeable of the best places to look for large game.
combo	Though it was too hot to find any lions we were able to see elephants, hippos, zebras, warthogs, monkeys and many others.
combo	The park had plenty of animals to view and was not too crowded by tourists.
combo	there were plenty of times throughout the day where we were the only vehicle around.
combo	While I only spotted camping sites as far as accommodations, the guide informed me that they are in the process of constructing a 3 star hotel on the reserve.
combo	I would highly recommend this trip."
combo	"Very interesting to visit you seen Buffalo, Enjoying the fresh air and joking around the well planted trees full of Animals"
combo	"Went on a self drive tour with a guide from very early hoping to see many animals, however we were disappointed as there were not many especially the big five.
combo	However there were signs of Elephants and sightings of Giraffe, Buffaloes, Gorilla and Gazelles."
combo	"The Akagera National park is wonderful for Savannah type safaris.
combo	Most of the animals are up North so plan your trip accordingly.
combo	The entrance fees are 35USD for international and 25USD for locals.
combo	Renting a car there is more expensive than finding your own car though.
combo	The staff is very kind and speaks fluently english.
combo	Great experience, great animals, really worth the trip!
combo	Note: if you plan to spend the night near the park, AVOID Coco Park Motel in Rwinkwazu.
combo	These thieves locked us inside their motel after they decided to add extra charges just because we were tourists.
combo	Really bad management, terrible food and disrespectful owner.
combo	I'm telling you this so that you can avoid the nightmare we had with them."
combo	"Very nice safari with Bizidanny Tours.
combo	Many interesting animals, although didn´t see any lions.
combo	Nice and competent driver/guide.
combo	But anyone who is looking for company of other tourists will look in vain.
combo	We (2) felt a bit.
combo	lonely in this rwandan national park.
combo	Ruzizi lodge in South Akagera was gorgeos.
combo	Tented lodge in North Akakera was simpler, very hot and a bit thrown out in nowhere.
combo	If you look for silence and peace and closeness to nature this is the place!"
combo	"We arrived at the park, and signed up for the safari, then we went on to Akagera Game Lodge for the night.
combo	Park entrance fee for tourist is $35 US, guide $30 US, we had our own vehicle, and still had to pay a $7 vehicle fee???
combo	We requested a guide that could drive, met him on the spot, and agreed to meet at 7am.
combo	We arrive, and look for the guide, and he's not there.
combo	So, they place us with another guide, and we ask him if he can drive.
combo	He says, 'more or less'.
combo	So, he gets behind the wheel, and basically runs the car into the woods, we had to scream at him to let off of the gas, or we were going to completely go into the bush.
combo	So, a bit of a rough start...
combo	The park was super cool in my opinion, especially after being in the city of Kigali for 5 wks.
combo	We saw an elephant almost immediately, zebras, hippos, warthogs, giraffes, etc.
combo	Not as many animals as I thought, but I had nothing to compare it to, this was my first safari.
combo	They shouldn't really advertise that they have lions, it is very rare to see them, (per the guide himself).
combo	They were doing a lot of burns, so large stretches were black due to that, which kept the animals mostly away.
combo	Our guide was friendly, and if we asked him questions, he would answer, but it was not super informational.
combo	He expected a tip at the end (in addition to the $30US that we paid upfront), and he didn't bring lunch, so we shared our limited food with him.
combo	Overall, it was cool.
combo	Might not get the guide the next time.
combo	Don't count on seeing the lions, a bit pricey in my opinion, but it was cool nonetheless."
combo	"Visiting Akagera national park has been one of the amazing things I did in 2016.
combo	We were very luck to see Mutware, the eldest elephant in the park, at the beginning of our journey; with the help of an experienced guide (his name is George, I would highly recommend him for his knowledge and ability to track different animals and knowing where they are in the park) I was able to see a lion (actually 2 😄) at a close range; less than 100m.
combo	A lot of animals (hippopotamus, giraffes, crocodiles, zebras, waterbucks, etc.
combo	are located near Lac Rwanyakazinga (3.5 hours of drive from the main entrance gate).
combo	Most of roads are accessible by vehicles but only in dry season, am not sure if during wet season they are accessible.
combo	From my experience, it is very crucial to visit the park with an experienced guide who knows very well which road/place to go."
combo	"Our group of 30 guests greatly enjoyed our visit to the park on June 29.
combo	The guide on our bus, Diderero, went out of his way to deliver a wonderful and engaging experience...and the animals joined in on the fun.
combo	We were welcomed on arrival by Mitware - the park's most famous elephant, and also enjoyed lions, zebras, schools of hippos, antelope of all varieties, girafffe, a lizard, and water buffalo.
combo	What a beautiful day to enjoy God's creation."
combo	"We did one and half day safari staying at lakeside lodge.
combo	The park is long and thin and most of the animals are at the faraway end in July.
combo	But we saw a lot of animals including Lion and Buffalo.
combo	Not a lot toilets constructed but bush toilet is accepted.
combo	In saying that, a toilet block is being built and should be finished in July 2016.
combo	Rhino are due to be introduced which will make this park even better."
combo	"It is more affordable in terms of money and time compare to other wildlife destinations in Rwanda.
combo	You may see Giraffe, Zebra, Hippo, Crocodiles, Deer and Elephants.
combo	Now i hear that there are Lions too !"
combo	"We were here two days and had a wonderful time.
combo	Discovering baboons, giraffes, zebras, antilopes, hippos and so for the first time in real life and a natural setting was a new experience to us.
combo	We were very impressed about the natural approch of the park.
combo	The stay in the lodge was a bit dissapointing.
combo	The overall athmosphere in the hotel is to 'cold' in comprisation of the warmth of Africa."
combo	"Long day and bumpy road to and through the park but well worth it in our safari vehicle that was set up by the Lemigo Hotel.
combo	Try to get there early, they open at 6 am, so that you can see the animals as they wake and move looking for food and water.
combo	It's amazing that you will see them all over the park.
combo	The guide will give you good information about the park.
combo	Pack a lunch and maybe you can get out of your vehicle at Hippo Beach, if it is safe.
combo	Elephant, Hippo, Lion, Leopard and Giraffe are the 5 major animals and we saw all but the leopard.
combo	Really awesome to see these animals in their natural environment.
combo	Will make you appreciate some of the elaborate displays some of the bigger zoos have for them."
combo	"The biggest park in Rwanda and the most visited as well.
combo	Just 3 hours drive from Kigali, you can visit in the morning and be back in Kigali before sunset.
combo	But if you want to stay then you should stay at the Rusizi tented lodge.
combo	Very exciting park and a model in conservation.
combo	In 2015 seven lions were reintroduced from SA after the last ones were wiped out by livestock owners in the mid '90s.
combo	The female lions have since given birth to 7 cubs making the total lion count to 14.
combo	Plans are underway to reintroduce the rhino as well later this year or early next.
combo	When the rhino is successfully reintroduced, then this park will boast of having all of the so called Africa's Big Five.
combo	As a matter of fact the ambitious management of the park want to reintriduce all the game species that were originally here but got wiped out for one reason or another.
combo	For the time being a variety of animals in this park to be seen include: elephant, giraffe, lion, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, leopard, zebra, hyena, many bird species, a variety of the antelope species and so on.
combo	There are many tour companies that operate in Kigali that offer bespoke tours to this beautiful park.
combo	Beside the game, the park boasts some of the most magnificent and scenic landscapes you can see anywhere.
combo	We visited early this year with a group of friends and we really enjoyed our time."
combo	"This is a great experience because when we were in Akagera National Park, it was a good Experience and we saw many of Animals like Giraffe and others."
combo	"We left Kigali on a Saturday morning, lunched at Akagera Lodge, went for a p.m. game drive; and the next day took a 6-hour game drive along the Lake Shore Drive, exiting by the North Gate.
combo	The park is beautiful.
combo	It runs N-S, with a long set of ridges to the east which slope steeply down to flatter ground and a series of large tranquil lakes and papyrus swamps.
combo	The availability of water helps attract animals (elephants, waterbucks, etc.
combo	as well as hosting lots of hippos, crocodiles, and many species of bird.
combo	The animal population was devastated during period before and right after the genocide (1994), but the park is now professionally managed, and the animal population is recovering strongly.
combo	We saw a lot of herbivores - impala, topi, waterbuck, zebra, giraffe, giant eland, Cape buffalo, oribi, hippos, elephant.
combo	There are some lions and leopards, but they are not seen often.
combo	The park plans to introduce black rhino (which used to live there) in the near future.
combo	Our ranger guide (George) was very knowledgeable about birds, and piqued our interest in them.
combo	The hippos were especially abundant and active.
combo	And we saw a couple of fine crocodiles.
combo	The park is a very nice blend of spectacular scenery and enough animals to keep us excited!
combo	The only downside: there are tsetse flies in some thickets.
combo	The park has set up scores of fly traps, which apparently have been very effective at reducing the number of flies, but nonetheless I was bitten: my forearm swelled up and was itchy for a few days, but nothing worse."
combo	"Akagera doesn't compare to the parks in Kenya or Tanzania, but it's a great opportunity for seeing a range of animals in Rwanda.
combo	You can make it a long day trip or spend the night in the park to break it up.
combo	It takes 5-6 hours to drive the length of the park, and then 3 hours or so to get back to Kigali.
combo	There aren't any facilities so bring everything you need to eat and drink, and be sure to have a good spare tire."
combo	"I used ECO TOURS - Evaniste, what a great group to work with.
combo	They know the ins and outs of the park and provide you with an ""experience"" like no other.
combo	The park is pristine and the Rwandans work very very hard to keep it that way.
combo	I saw thousands of animals from Giraffes to Buffalo to Zebra - WOW and I am going back to see the Lions.
combo	Don't travel to Africa with out seeing this piece of perfection."
combo	"Take a day or two to make a camping in the Akagera National park, Camping at the north entrance, overlooking the lakes and with great view to Tanzanian Mountains.
combo	with luck you see Lions, Leopards!
combo	worth to visit"
combo	"Wasn't great experience, there quite a lot of travelling by car through set roads and if you're travelling in a car without air conditioning then it will be filled with biting fly's with having the windows down"
combo	"I went here a few weeks after arriving in Rwanda and I made the mistake of not using the bathroom before getting in the car, I cannot insist of this enough!
combo	There's no toilet on the entire drive).
combo	Once was enough for me though."
combo	"Self guided or join a group, either way be prepared for the adventure of a life time.
combo	Make sure that you stay overnight and make it a real safari.
combo	The night time noises alone are worth the trip.
combo	We loved the dinner around the campfire and breakfast on the water.
combo	The animals are plentiful.
combo	You will not be disappointed"
combo	"This park offers elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, impala, baboons, water buffalo and more.
combo	Sam from Terra Incognita EcoTours proved to be an informed guide through the park, pointing out animals, plants, trees, and birds.
combo	He gave us a tour through the incredible lansdacape and vistas of the Top of the World.
combo	We saw very few other people, adding to the pristine nature of our trip!"
combo	"İt is apro.
combo	2 hours away from Kigali.
combo	Main road is good but later is changing rhe african red solid .
combo	As i know , there are main gates .
combo	But at the gate , there is no food court either at the gate or in the park .
combo	Dont forget to take your snacks with you .
combo	One park guardian will be with you during your trip.
combo	He shows which way you must go and gives spme informations about animals .
combo	And if you are lucky , i was , you can see the huge afrivan elephants .
combo	Nearly from one gate to other takes 5-6 hours .
combo	Enjoy your safari"
combo	Great park.
combo	Maybe you don't see as many animals as in other parks but the landscape are magnificent.
combo	Overnight in the camp site under the stars the best experience to recharge your batteries.
combo	We end up this time with a journey of about 30 Girafes... amazing...
combo	"We saw plenty of animals on our visit, the welcome centre is worth a visit.
combo	Interesting talk by one of the rangers, who was really helpful during our tour."
combo	"We've stayed at the tents rizizi for 3 nights, and it was unbeleivable very nice!
combo	Didn't except it very nice as it was!
combo	All the stuff was helpful and speak good english; the food was just w@oouuw ridiculous yuummy!
combo	Drove around and we've seen alot of Game!
combo	But desapointed didn't see any elephant or giraffe; hopefully next time!
combo	I will definitively going there again!
combo	It is a must 😁"
combo	"A few hour drive from Kigali.
combo	Best to take a 4x4 as the roads in the park are rough.
combo	On the morning we visited saw giraffe, zebra, hippos.
combo	crocs, and other small animals."
combo	"Review by my nine year old: I have been to Akagera many times [I live in Rwanda] but I am going to write about my most recent visit.
combo	The last time i went to Akagera was for my brother's 7th birthday in February with 2 other families with kids.
combo	We stayed in Karenge Bush Camp, which is like a luxury campsite with beds in the tents and a outside shower and bathroom with views of Lake Ihema.
combo	We went on many game drives and saw many animals like zebras, vervet monkeys, giraffes, hippos, buffalos, warthogs, antelopes and other animals but no snakes, elephants or lions.
combo	We didn't see any elephants all weekend, but luckily, just as we where driving out of the park we saw a large family of elephants drinking and playing in the water, including adults and young elephants!
combo	I would recommend Akagera as a really nice place to visit for almost anyone (not people who are scared of animals)."
combo	"I was lucky enough to join another group who were renting a car/driver for the day (this made it very low cost compared to a tour).
combo	Saw many different animals while driving through.
combo	Baboons, an elephant, giraffes, zebras, hippos, water buffalo, a leopard, spider monkeys, etc.
combo	It's a great little day trip!"
combo	"I have been on many safaris over the last 20 years, and seen some incredible sights.
combo	Akagera is Rwanda’s one National Park with Savanna type animals.
combo	I heard it had been halved in size in the last 20 years.
combo	The park has been under new management from South Africa to improve the infrastructure, staff training and lodges.
combo	I looked forward to a day out of the city, but was planning on not being impressed.
combo	However, reflecting on our 8-9 hours in the park in one day, I have to admit it was a remarkable experience.
combo	The park has numerous ecosystems including high hills, numerous lakes, forests and open flood plains that were dry this time of the year.
combo	The picnic/camping areas were very well organized and surrounded by an electric fence.
combo	My first thoughts were what an amazing boy scout camping experience this could be.
combo	The animals we saw included many of the species I have seen other African Parks, but in reality, I saw more diversity in antelope species than I have in any other single park in such a short time.
combo	The most numerous animals were Impala, Zebra, Waterbuck and Giraffe, but the number of Eland and Topi were impressive.
combo	I had never seen so many in one day.
combo	We also saw Hippos, Bushbuck, a Roan Antelope, Duiker and my first Oribi.
combo	The only elephant we saw was an old bull who was eating Acacia trees, and kind of hiding from us, despite being about 75 to 100 feet away.
combo	A highlight was a leopard sighting in plain view in the last hour in the park.
combo	He was standing on top of a rock watching us, and we were all watching him, but did not get very good photos.
combo	I would certainly go again!"
combo	"Akagera National park is the tour you should not miss when planning to visit a country of thousand hills.
combo	It has a very nice view, the savannah vegetation, all the mammal animals are available in the park at a very big number of them including the lions,elephants,zebras,giraffes, hippos and so on.
combo	Akagera also has crocodiles,birds.
combo	The guides at Akagera National park are professionals they really make your holiday a different one.
combo	Plus the accommodations are available inside the park for a night Rest.
combo	This is the place to visit!!!
combo	Liza"
combo	"Drove from south to north through Akagera National Park.
combo	Spent roughly 6 hours meandering through incredible beauty while encountering hundreds of beautiful animals (girafes, zebras, water bucks, hippos, elephants, crocodiles, etc).
combo	Had an incredible guide by the name of Justice whose knowledge and personality were great additions to the experience."
combo	"I've been to this park twice and both times had great guides and saw a lot of animals.
combo	The second I stayed at Akagera Lodge (not to be confused with Rusizi Tented Lodge) inside the park.
combo	This is much cheaper than the tented lodge and gives you the chance to be picked up by your guide in the morning for your game drive.
combo	There are no toilets once you leave the welcome center, so not recommended for people who can't squat or use a bush!"
combo	"Always bringing friends visiting Rwanda first time in this park to see the wonders inside touring for almost six hours wherein we saw lots of animals..family of baboons, monkeys, impalas,buffalos, hippos, giraffes, wild bush pig and just recently this month an herd of elephants ( more than twenty of them) and lions.. We are lucky to see all of those that time..So when in Rwanda try to visit the park and its habitat a bit scary at first but a nice adventure and experience."
combo	"Visited as part of a week long trip to Rwanda.
combo	Did a day trip from Kigali, arranged with Frank Benoit of Golben Tours: frankbenoitk@goldenrwanda.com I would recommend Frank if you are visiting Rwanda, he was professional and on time, which was a requirement for an early start to Akagera!
combo	My interest was more in the bird life and Sarah Hall at Akagera arranged a guide with superior knowledge of the many bids of this park when I had contacted her in advance: sarahh@african-parks.org As well as the many and varied species of bird, the mammals are great also, a heavy leant to the antelope but the chance of Lion/Elephant etc.
combo	Another plus point was the feeling of having the place all to yourself, it felt like my own private park.
combo	We saw 2 other vehicles in 8 hours.
combo	I would highly recommend this park and the entire experience.
combo	I shall be returning and will certainly spend more than one day.
combo	I would suggest taking a guide, their knowledge will really enhance your experience and they're extremely reasonable as us the whole park."
combo	"You may think of Rwanda as less than what it truly is.
combo	Many people will choose Kenya over Rwanda for the pure tourism.
combo	Akagera is one of the main reasons I would recommend Rwanda, it is a very high quality resort compared to many of the other places in Africa.
combo	It was an amazing experience to go on the safari, and you will not regret it.
combo	One warning i would say is to watch out for baboons because they can get really close to you at the resort.
combo	Otherwise it was overall an amazing experience."
combo	The national park is quite small but very interesting.
combo	If you have some time to spare in Rwanda it is worth a visit.
combo	Now they have 7 lions there and the antelopes are plentiful.
combo	It is not like Kenya or Uganda or Tanzania but we had a lot of pleasure with the game watching.
combo	We saw a leopard and a Hippo out of the water as highlights.
combo	Elephants from far away and plenty of antelopes.
combo	"This was my first safari.
combo	We saw elephants with in the first minute of driving trough the gate.
combo	The whole experience was super special, getting to see the animals in their natural habitat is something rare and this experience reminded me of how precious these animals are to us.
combo	Our guide was fantastic, full of knowledge and very friendly."
combo	"I absolutely loved this place!
combo	My college class went to this park and wow, what an amazing site!
combo	If you want to see an abundance of wild animals, this is the place to go.
combo	We saw elephants, giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, zebras, water buffalo, water buck, gazelles, impalas, and so much more.
combo	Jasmyn S."
combo	"Akagera was an incredible place to visit.
combo	After visiting all of the National parks in Rwanda, including the recently created Gishwati National park, this was the best place to go for a fun trip with minimal hiking or strenuous activity.
combo	Taking a car around the Savanna was a amazing experience and seeing the elephants, hippos and zebras along with dozens of other species was unforgettable.
combo	If you are going to visit Akagera I would advise you to try to see some of the behind-the-scenes aspects of how the park is managed.
combo	I'd recommend going to Akagera to support the growing ecotourism industry if you live in or around Rwanda and even if you are as far away as the U.S. or Europe."
combo	"Zebras, antelopes, elephants, hippos, monkeys galore.
combo	Not the vast numbers of the Serengeti, but many animals all over, as you ride your own car or the park's guided tour vehicles (US$350/day for a party of six, half-days also available).
combo	We stayed at Ruzizi Tented Camp, lakeside and loads of fun.
combo	Sounds of the bush all night around you, very good food included, and totally safe."
combo	"I was amazed at the wide variety of animals that were seen in the park.
combo	I saw many of the animals that are traditionally associated with an African safari.
combo	However, I also saw animals that I did not expect to see, like monkeys.
combo	When we were out on the safari our vehicle was the only one that was seen all day.
combo	I was also able to take some of the best shots of elephants I have ever taken in my life.
combo	While in the park I was also able to take a boat tour of Lake Tanganyika.
combo	While on the boat I had the opportunity to see elephants and hippos.
combo	Seeing the lake ecosystems in the park was a very unique experience.
combo	I would recommend that anyone visiting Rwanda visit Akagera National Park."
combo	"I spent two nights in Akagera National Park at the Game Lodge.
combo	We started off our three day excursion with a night safari.
combo	We went in a group of 7 people in a safari truck.
combo	It was about 5:30pm when we started our trip.
combo	We first saw a couple of bushback and after those initial animals, it was very quiet.
combo	It was very serene.
combo	Once it got dark, I couldn't see more than a few feet in front of me, but there was a looming storm in the distance.
combo	So every once in a while a crack of lightning would light up our way.
combo	The only other source of light we had was the light the tracker had to try and find animals.
combo	It sounds kind of scary, but I felt very safe the entire time.
combo	We eventually saw a serval stalking a rabbit and even two elephants towards the end!
combo	The next day we went on a long day safari.
combo	We saw a ton of animals!
combo	There were herds of zebra on the road that we were driving on!
combo	We saw tons of giraffe and even a small herd of elephants!
combo	Our tracker knew a lot about the animals and where we could go to see specific ones.
combo	The next day we went on a boat tour.
combo	We saw some hippos.
combo	The guide was careful not to get to close to them and once they were starting to feel a little threatened, we backed off.
combo	We even saw a crocodile jump up and eat a bird!
combo	That's the circle of life for you.
combo	Overall, it was an amazing experience.
combo	Akagera is not commercialized and very natural.
combo	It didn't feel like the animals were placed anywhere and they responded as wild animals would.
combo	This is the real safari that anyone wanting to go to Africa should go on!"
combo	"I was absolutely amazed at the density of animals on the safari.
combo	I probably went about five minutes maximum without seeing any zebra, buffalo, or giraffe.
combo	After talking with the warden, he checked to see where the lions and elephants were, and to our luck the elephants were nearby.
combo	The ranger that went with us was kind and extremely knowledgable.
combo	The next morning I went on a boat tour of Lake Tanganyika and saw a herd of hippos.
combo	The guide/boat driver kept us a safe distance from them.
combo	We also rode around a small island covered in forest and densely populated with birds, and a few crocodiles.
combo	The weather was great and it was a relaxing and interesting way to start the day."
combo	"I had heard that this park was not the best place to see animals but that is wrong.
combo	Saw all of the big animals except the newly introduced lions.
combo	Only regret is that we could not spend the night.
combo	Two days would have been better.
combo	A young guide (Maddie sp?
combo	who is part of a group trained to be ""free lance"" guides was knowledgeable and had great eyes finding mammals and birds.
combo	These young people are paid by tips only which go to the cooperative of twenty and shared.
combo	This was not explained clearly to us.
combo	Well worth a generous tip!
combo	Be sure to get a park guide book (about 4$).
combo	It is well done and beautiful.
combo	A great souvenir."
combo	"Ok where to start we went all the way from kigali it took 3 hrs to reach there with nice view all around with the banana trees and maize fields also the rice fields we saw on our way the inyange factory for water juice and milk and then we reached the park paid our tkts and went on first tour were u can just breathe and smell oxygen like never before we saw animals lots of antelopes, birds, butterflies and baboons we were also lucky to see a huge gang of elephants the.
combo	We went to the game lodge to have lunch i expected it to be not nice but they surprised me friendly stuff and actually nice good and then we went for our second tour more or less the same and we reserved our boat tour which is a must we saw crocodiles hepos And eagles the view was amazing and air was unbelievable we went back to our lodge baboons was all around and was nice just make sure to close well ur windows and balconies"
combo	"This park was small but has just about everything, and the best part is we didn't even see any other tourists while we were there.
combo	On our safari we were the only bus on the trail, and the animals were everywhere, and they were so close to the bus!
combo	It was so amazing, an beautiful.
combo	The park seems new and very well kept.
combo	The staff was so friendly and really cared about making sure you had an amazing experience and saw all of the animals possible.
combo	In addition to a day safari I would recommend a night safari as well.
combo	You may not see a ton of animals on the night safari but when you do see them it is stunning.
combo	We saw african elephants in the middle of the night and it was much more exciting than seeing an elephant in the day.
combo	Also the boat tour on the lake was something you cannot miss.
combo	I loved this park, I would definitely recommend."
combo	"The park is on the smaller side and very beautiful with quite few tourists.
combo	The freelance guides are very good at what they do and I should highly recommend the boat ride on Lake Ihema since it's very nice, especially if you want to spot birds."
combo	"I traveled to all 4 National Parks in Rwanda (which I would recommend).
combo	Akagera is different from the other three because it is Savannah terrain.
combo	There is so much to explore in Akagera.
combo	We went on a safari, boating, and a night drive and each came with the viewing of amazing animals.
combo	A few included zebras, elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, mongoose, and the list could go on and on.
combo	There was not a lack of animals to be seen.
combo	I would highly recommend going."
combo	"In this beautiful place we had the chance to have the best guide (a great guy in-loved in Nature, unfortunately couldn't remember his name).
combo	We didn't had the chance to meet the giraffes and the elephants, anyway it was an amazing experience to observe the Rwandan savanna.
combo	I was impressed to see and hear about the hippos life, to see and hear a lot of birds species, to meet baboons etc.
combo	Strongly recommend to take a guide!"
combo	"Went to Rwanda over Christmas and visited the Akagera National Park for two days loved it and saw many animals including elephants, giraffes, zebras and may more all up close.
combo	Guides very knowledgeable and speek English.
combo	We hired a car with a driver some of the time booked through a great guy called Frank Benoit in Rwanda.
combo	goldenrwanda.com.
combo	Could not fault his helpfulness and will be planning to go back..Jon"
combo	Akagera National Park is one of the most beautiful places I've every seen.
combo	Animals were visible in abundance and the guides were very knowledgeable and friendly.
combo	"We went to Akagera with our own vehicle, a 4x4 would be strongly recommended as the roads can be muddy, especially in the north.
combo	This is one of the few parks where they do not insist on a guide and we spent 6 hours - it was not enough time!
combo	We saw many hippos, elephants, zebras, antelope and a giraffe, they have recently released 7 lions and plan to have further releases.
combo	There are several lakes in the park and it is possible to go fishing for an additional fee, we didnt catch anything but this may be due to me being a bit shy fishing about 60m from a hippo!!!.
combo	The park appears very well run, we saw several groups of rangers and the whole area is fenced.
combo	It is possible to exit through the northern gate but you can only enter at the southern gate.
combo	Make sure you allow at least six hours and there is a lot to see."
combo	"Chased by an elephant (safely), watched one of the newly reintroduced lionesses eat her warthog, giraffes necking, the plains filled with animals....terrific!"
combo	"The park has a range of terrains and routes, none of which were busy, all of which we saw animals.
combo	They are doing a fantastic job on reintroduction of lion, soon to be rhino, and we were incredibly lucky to also see leopard and elephant.
combo	Visiting in December meant that the park was green, but short grass in the main, so we could still see the maximum number of animals.
combo	Fabulous accommodation in Ruzizi lodge, simple but beautifully secluded and peaceful.
combo	I would recommend it to everyone"
combo	"I can't say enough good about this park!
combo	If I had to recommend any park that I've visited in east Africa this would be it.
combo	We say more game here in 6 hours than we experienced in several days of viewing in Uganda/Tanzania...and the scenery is BEAUTIFUL!
combo	Don't miss if you have a day to spare in Rwanda!
combo	Elephant, giraffe, zebra, lion, kopi, mongoose, birds, hippos, etc.
combo	Incredible!"
combo	"Bizidanny Tours was absolutely great.
combo	They handled all the details and responded to our many questions very quickly.
combo	Our guide was Magezi and he showed us the park and answered all our questions.
combo	We saw hippos, crocs, wart hogs, monkeys, baboons, giraffes and even an elephant.
combo	We stayed overnight at the tent lodge which was wonderful.
combo	I give this tour company five stars."
combo	"The park is very nice, a lot of animals, especially antilopes, zebras, girafes and hippo.
combo	We were there in a rainy day, so we did't see the crocodiles (they like the sun).
combo	There are many elephants and about 8 lions, but we did not have the chance to see them.
combo	We saw a beautiful leopard instead.
combo	It would be recommended to visit the national park in the dry season, because even if you drive a 4x4 car, there are parts of the road difficult to use.
combo	We've got stucked in the mud for half an hour and it was quite difficult to get out, but it was a nice adventure to walk on the slippery road, to search branches and rocks, to push the car... the entrance in the park in only through the south gate, the exit can be chosen: south or north gate.
combo	If you get lost or you don't get out of the park until 6PM (except when you have accomodation in the park and you stay over night, which you have to declare at the reception at your arrival), a rescue team will search you.
combo	The entry fee is 35US$/pax for foreigners (7$/pax for local people, 25$ for foreign residents) and there are many options for activities and accomodation.
combo	You can see more info on the official website."
combo	"Akagera park boasts some stunning views!
combo	There are quite a few species to be found.
combo	Recently a few lions were imported but I did not spot them.
combo	Watch out for the elephants, apparently they are quite grumpy in this park :)"
combo	"This is a fun and amazing place to visit.
combo	We had an excellent tour guide who spotted an elephant from across the lake as well as numerous giraffes, impalas, antelopes, zebras, baboons, monkeys, hippopotamus, and many more.
combo	The park is large and takes several hours to tour.
combo	We also stayed at the Akagera Lodge which provided excellent service and food.
combo	The rooms were clean and comfortable.
combo	We were able to see baboons when we came out in the morning.
combo	There is a large pool, patio, firepit, and playground."
combo	"We did night safari and a day safari and loved every minute of both.
combo	We saw so many animals and that was before the lions took up residence so there is even more reason to go now.
combo	I think you need a guide, especially the first time you go.
combo	You can do it in a day trip from Kigali but I suspect you'd need to get up about 4am."
combo	"We enjoyed two nights camping at Akagera (one night each at both ridge campsites, not the one by the lake) and driving and seeing game all over the park.
combo	The game is mostly in the north and it takes hours of driving to get around and see them, but we enjoyed ourselves and will go back."
combo	I've visited here after it brought lions in from SA but was not able to see them.
combo	The view of the park was gorgeous.
combo	Million hills and cohabiting antelopes!
combo	"Thisis an amzing small park compare to other countries, but you will have the impression to be in a beatiful well cared garden.
combo	The tour is one way, I mean you enter from the South and you exit the north gate.
combo	Most of animals are at north indeed.
combo	And now also lions.
combo	I will come again"
combo	"The park is not as well stocked as some areas of Africa, but the mountain and lakeside drives afford different species viewing opportunities.
combo	We did'nt see cats, although some lions had been released in the days prior to our visit, and only one very angry elephant.
combo	The guides are knowledgeable when you check in at the visitor centre, and you can easily self drive with a 4x4.
combo	Some alternative overnight options, mostly camping (now with electric fences) or Akagera Game Lodge"
combo	This National Park has a lot to offer.
combo	We stayed at Rizuzi Tented Camp and it was excellent.
combo	Try to do a full-day safari in order to see as many animals as you can.
combo	"Akagera is not as spectacular as the large parks in Kenya and Tanzania.
combo	You see more individual animals or smaller groups, may be up to ten hippos or gazelles in a little herd.
combo	Against all advices to start early in the morning, we found more animals in the late afternoon, when they go to the lakes to drink.
combo	Also try to head to the north of the park as fast as possible.
combo	The south is bush land, difficult to see the animals there.
combo	Be prepared for a bumpy six hour drive in a 4x4 till the north gate.
combo	A lot of Rwandans are ready to go with you in their own car, which may cost around 200 US for the trip.
combo	You have to add entrance fees to the park plus the guide (check rates in the internet at RDB).
combo	Around 35 US per person in September 2015.
combo	Bottles of drinking water are available in the cafe in the visitors centre at the south entrance, where you have to get in and get your guide (1,000 RWF per liter).
combo	The map of the park is 2,500 RWF at the gift shop.
combo	We saw no elephants in the dry season.
combo	They seem to be more frequent along the roads in the wet season.
combo	Roads may be more difficult to pass though."
combo	Akagera National Park has great views and a lake.
combo	when i visited there were very few animals but i understand that since then they have started restocking and restoring the park to ensure the visitors have a great experience.
combo	A small park with beautiful lakes and view points .Quiet which makes for good viewing.
combo	A good assortment of wildlife including an elephant with a sad history.Was given a good introduction to the park by 1 of the Guides and then spent 1 1/2 days travelling around it.
combo	"Absolutely amazing experience!
combo	We saw tons of gazelle and other antelopes, warthogs, zebras, a few hippos, water buffalo, bald eagles and other exotic birds, and survived a close encounter with an elephant who we had seen earlier in the brush but on our way back he was strolling down the (one-lane) dirt road.
combo	Needless to say we backed up slowly until he/she finally left the road to head for the lake.
combo	Sadly we did not see any giraffe, although most people do, and the newly introduced lions are still hiding out.
combo	It's a long drive from south to north, and there are no conveniences (aka restrooms), so be forwarned.
combo	You can do as the animals do when you find a clear spot but you run the risk of Tse Tse flies and mosquitos."
combo	"This game park is one of Rwanda's hidden gems.
combo	Most travelers skip Akagera in favor of the same of the more high profile parks in Kenya and Tanzania, which I think is a mistake.
combo	This is a wonderful, unspoiled spot with most of all of the animals you want to see without the crowds.
combo	When we were there, we did a 6 hour game drive and only saw one other vehicle!"
combo	"My driver and I arrived at around 8:00 am at Akagera Park.
combo	It took a little more than two hours to arrive there from Kigali.
combo	We have been told by a park guide that we might not see many animals close to the entrance, because they prefer to be close to the lakes.
combo	Fortunately, they decided otherwise.
combo	I could see different kind of animals from the beginning, including hippos and buffalos.
combo	My driver explained me that we were too late for the lions.
combo	This is a trip that I can imagine doing again, maybe spending the night there, so that I can see the lions next time.
combo	Driving along the park takes some hours, so go to the bathroom and buy something to eat before it starts."
combo	Lions have recently been introduce (the deers and zebras were not consulted!).
combo	The park is small compared to the Serengeti but offers chance for good birding.
combo	It is not very easy to access all locations of the park.
combo	"The dirt road in is being rebuilt so will be good.
combo	Roads within the Park really require high clearance vehicle , although there were small sedans driving around!!
combo	Having visited many game reserves, we were interested in the array of very different vegetation types, a mixture of lakes, and the changes in animals in the different areas.
combo	Also the giraffe, baboons, waterbuck and Topi are different to Southern Africa!
combo	Especially the birds, apparently more species of birds in Rwanda than any other African country!
combo	Cost of US$ 35 pp per day entry fee, vehicle US$ 25 and guide $40 per day is at the high end but you can see the money is being used properly.
combo	They do have eftpos!!
combo	Will be back to see the lions and the leopards we missed!"
combo	"Great experience.
combo	We have seen a lot of animals like elephants, zebra's, giraffes, hippo's, crocodiles, special birds.
combo	Only the road is a bit bumpy."
combo	"I had never been on Safari and did a 1 and 1/2 day tour.
combo	I stayed at the lodge overnight.
combo	The park is huge and there are plenty of animals too see.
combo	Very few big cats in the park and I didn't see any.
combo	As we drove in the park from the south gate we were in the bush area.
combo	I got a little discouraged because it was hard to find animals.
combo	Luckily, as you drive north it opens up and the animals are plentiful.
combo	My impression was that the animals see lots of cars and other than the warthogs and crocodiles, most animals were unphased by cars.
combo	On the second day I went on a one hour boat ride and it was okay, but not great.
combo	I think if you get to the park by 8:00, you have plenty of time to see everything and there is no need to spend overnight."
combo	Seen elephants giraffe but we did not see the newly released lions.
combo	I guess they are getting settled in before they make an appearance
combo	"Akagera is an easy trip from Kigali and while it doesn't display the abundant wildlife of big parks in Kenya, Tanzania and other east and southern African countries, this is a park that deserves a visit if you are in Rwanda.
combo	The smallish herds of elephant, giraffe and other animals are reproducing well with the care and protection of the park guardians.
combo	The establishment of a pride of lions in the summer of 2015 signals Rwanda's efforts to increase its appeal as a tourism destination.
combo	The new Ruzizi tent lodge, entirely solar powered and a lovely luxurious-rustic option for overnight stays, is another reason to visit the park.
combo	While I only saw two of the big five during my 24-hour stay, an unexpected sighting of an elephant shrew on the night safari was a treat.
combo	Don't skip this night trip led by the national park guides--you will see a host of nocturnal animals that are too shy to find during the day.
combo	Guides are *excellent*.
combo	Didier, one of the local community guides, is a former elementary school teacher whose love of birds made our 8 hour meander through the park absolutely phenomenal."
combo	"This is a good news for Rwandans and our tourists that now we have lions in Akagera National Park.
combo	It means we have big four and we are expecting to complete the number of big five when the Rhinos will come.
combo	As Rwandan I hope to see the number of those who like the wildlife being increased including Rwandans.
combo	Those are three of the seven lions we received from South Africa, they are 5 females and 2 males.
combo	Wish prosperity and fertility to our lions in Akagera National Park"
combo	"We spent two days here.
combo	We had a boat trip which was OK, but the best bit was seeing the animals on our game drives.
combo	Twice there were elephants in the road, which necessitated waiting it out until they moved.
combo	We saw a lot of Hippos out of the water and many birds.
combo	It is a good place for seeing animals.
combo	The Park has different enviroments, the lake, savannah and scrub, which host lots of different species.
combo	Lions had been released recently, but we did not see them.
combo	As ever evenings and early morning are best for wildlife viewing."
combo	"This Park was breath taking.
combo	I cant compare with other safaris as it was my first one but the landscapes are amazing and I have been Lucky to see loads and loads of animals: giraffes, éléphants, zebras, baboons, waterbucks, impala, hippos, and so much more!
combo	You can do à two Days tours.
combo	One by car and one by boat.
combo	I would recommend to do only one by car as you can see everything."
combo	"We utilized Rwanda Eco-Tours to take us to a safari in Akagera National Park.
combo	Seeing the African animals in their natural habitat was so exciting - elephants, baboons, giraffes, hippos, water buffalo, zebras, warthogs, antelope, and numerous exotic birds.
combo	They brought lions from South Africa the day we visited but hadn't released them yet.
combo	Our guide to the park was Anaclet, a veterinarian, and he was super.
combo	Our guide from Rwanda Eco-tours, Yusin, also accompanied us and between the two of them, no question went unanswered.
combo	Both of them are passionate about Rwanda and the animals.
combo	We especially enjoyed getting a close up view of the elephants.
combo	Go to Akagera - you won't regret it."
combo	"Did a one-day Safari from Kigali.
combo	Set off at 5am and got back about 6pm.
combo	Hired a great guide at the visitor centre who picked a great route: we saw all the usual suspects in quick succession including the rare Roan Antelope.
combo	The lions imported from South Africa are still in quarantine, but you should see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, baboons and loads of different antelopes.
combo	The lake adds an extra dimension with sea eagles and kingfishers in profusion.
combo	Well worth a visit."
combo	"We spent the whole day on the safari.
combo	We saw many animal types: impala, crocodiles, hippos, elephants (one almost chraged our truck!
combo	), baboons, spider monkeys, giraffe, zebra, wart hogs, other hooved species, assorted birds, and a brief view of a leopard.
combo	Great experience."
combo	"We spent about 5 hours driving through the park and we saw so many animals.
combo	I could not believe the amount of wildlife there.
combo	To name a few we saw, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, antelope, warthogs, and so much more.
combo	We never saw any cats but the animals we did see were plenty.
combo	The drive can get bumpy, and I recommend an Air Conditioned vehicle as some places are thick with flies, and they bite!
combo	You are on a safari, so you can't expect cushy roads of course.
combo	Ultimately it was a fantastic experience, and so affordable (about $30 US per person, and $30 for a guide for our group of four people).
combo	I highly recommend this park if you are visiting Rwanda and have a free day, if you don't have a free day, make one."
combo	"Great national park, a little known gem.
combo	Lots of animals, giraffes, zebras, buffalo.
combo	Disappointingly I never saw any elephants or cats, but there was plenty of other animals.
combo	There was also a nice lake where the locals were fishing.
combo	Well worth a visit."
combo	"We were able to see just about every kind of large animal and many types of birds resident in the park, except the leopard, in just a day trip from Kigali.
combo	It was a gorgeous park with hills and plains and lakes.
combo	The giraffes, zebras, buffalos, elephant, hippos, crocodiles, impalas, warthogs, topis, bush bucks, water bucks, several other antelopes, eagles, ibis, kingfisher, etc... were all very impressive.
combo	We got quite close as well."
combo	"This park is relatively easy to get to from Kigali to the Northeast and contains some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
combo	Compared to some of the more expensive national parks in East Africa this is a pretty good deal.
combo	However, you are not guaranteed to see some of the bigger ticket wildlife East Africa is known for (elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, etc.).
combo	I did see some giraffes, hypos, and monkeys there and enjoyed the brief safari we did.
combo	I visited with a group of friends and made the big mistake of going at the beginning of the rainy season and not renting a larger four wheel drive vehicle.
combo	Do not skimp on transportation as we spent a large amount of time getting stuck and eventually actually needing the national park service to bail us out of one particularly bad spot as the sun was setting.
combo	Akagera has a great spot for camping and just hanging out.
combo	It's supposed to have good bird watching too but we didn't stay long enough for that."
combo	"As a resident of Kigali, I did this 3 day Safari with my wife.
combo	Akagera National Park was a beautiful place with lots of wildlife, and thanks to it’s not being Serengeti, you could get close to the animals and “have the park to yourself”.
combo	And the hotel, Akagera Logde, was situated on a fantastic spot, overlooking on of the lakes in the park.
combo	We had a wonderful time, much thanks to our excellent tour operator Aron Mugisha of Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Ltd, who I really can recommend.
combo	Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is a small but also a personal company that really went the extra mile in order to make the safari a great experience."
combo	"Beautiful views.
combo	Drive from south end to north end takes about five hours, about 8 round trip if you're staying at the game lodge.
combo	Brought our own vehicle and driver.
combo	Saw all the animals except for cheetahs and elephants.
combo	Great safari for first timers.
combo	If you've done the Mara, Serengeti, etc, this might be a disappointment, there's less variety of animals and they aren't in large herds.
combo	But overall, great place.
combo	Be warned that heavily bushed sections of the drive have swarms of tse tse flies, so you'll be busy killing them rather than watching the scenery!
combo	It was too hot to handle closing up the vehicle.
combo	So bring plenty of repellent and something to swat the flies.
combo	Boat drive at sunset was totally worth it."
combo	"I was lucky enough to stay in a cabin inside the park for a couple of nights.
combo	It's an amazing experience to say the least!
combo	Baboons were climbing all over the cabin, sometimes with small babies on their backs.
combo	The sunsets over the lake were fantastic!
combo	I saw a few giraffes, a hippo, lots of herds of wildebeest, and zebras the day I went on safari.
combo	Look out for the zebras!!
combo	Watching them run at full speed down the mountainside was one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.
combo	Watch out for bloodsucking flies however... sooo painful...."
combo	"The Akagera National Park is easily to be visited within one day, but don't look surprised if you have to wake up early because the drive from Kigali town centre to the park is about 2,5 to 3 hours long.
combo	I did it in two days.
combo	The first day we did half of a game viewing and at 4.30pm we were able to do a sunset boat trip on the lake (35 euro).
combo	If you take the 3pm boat trip, it's a bit cheaper.
combo	The day after, we did a whole day of game viewing, saw giraffes, a leopard, buffaloes, crane birds, the African fish eagle, crocodiles, hippos, impala's, zebra's, ... you name it.
combo	Only, but small, letdown was the fact that our guide wasn't a very motivated one.
combo	We didn't get a lot of explanations or extra facts/faits divers, even when we asked about things he didn't seem to know a lot about it.
combo	Was a shame, but didn't really affect the trip.
combo	It's a wonderful experience, definitely when you want to escape the busy and hectic atmosphere of the Kigali town centre and surroundings."
combo	"Akagera National Park area has Beautiful scenery and a game drive in the northern sector exposes you to wide variety of African animals such as Giraffes, Lion, Elephants, Buffalo and so many Antelopes.
combo	Ruzizi Tented camp is excellent!
combo	Keep it up."
combo	"I've never done anything like this, I highly recommend it.
combo	We did the boat tour as well as the drive through the park.
combo	We paid extra for the tour guide which I highly recommend.
combo	We saw so many animals, and our guide was able to point out elephants across the lake we would have never seen otherwise, amazing!
combo	I also recommend leaving AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE.
combo	If you are the first tour group through the park you will see the most wildlife, absolutely be out the door by 6am it's worth it!
combo	Would do this again!"
combo	"It is very beautiful.
combo	Nice service of the guides, especially Inocent.
combo	Many animals, everything clean.
combo	I only recommend to have a bigger menu at the cafeteria."
combo	"Akagera is beautiful and easily accessible from Kigali, 2+ hours.
combo	I chose Good Friend Services for our transportation to the park, around the park and back home.
combo	I would recommend them, reasonable and reliable.
combo	We stayed 2 nights at the eco tent lodge.
combo	A bit more expensive but worth every penny.
combo	The food was better than amazing, the cook has a gift!!!
combo	The park, wildlife and birdlife were all wonderful.
combo	Definitely take the boat trip on Lake Ihema.
combo	The only part that was not so great was that we missed getting to the northern section.
combo	We spent too much time driving up over the top ridge where the road is bad and you have to go slow, no animals up there either.
combo	Plus, the tsetse flies are horrendous up there.
combo	Next time I will go up the lake road and into the Northern part."
combo	"As a certified safari guide, I have been through many African national parks.
combo	Akagera is a beautiful park that comprises rolling hills, blue lakes, dense woodland and open grasslands.
combo	It contains three of the big five - elephant, cape buffalo and leopard among many other well-known African species such as giraffe, zebra, hippo, crocodile and impala.
combo	It is also a birdwatchers paradise, boasting a wide array of avian species.
combo	It is a relatively small park and the chances of seeing some of the more popular species are fairly slim, however.
combo	Your chances of seeing elephants are 50/50 and as with many safaris, you will be extremely lucky and should feel very privileged to spot a leopard.
combo	Species that are almost guaranteed include giraffe, cape buffalo, zebra and topi.
combo	Personal highlights were bushbuck, oribi and a blue-cheeked bee-eater.
combo	Those looking for a Serengeti/Maasai Mara style safari should not opt for Akagera instead.
combo	Akagera is ideal for those who have already experienced these types of safaris and are looking for something a bit different.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful country that offers many amazing encounters with wildlife.
combo	If you are on a tight budget then I would prioritize gorilla and chimpanzee trekking ($750 (yes seven hundred and fifty dollars) and $90 respectively) before visiting Akagera."
combo	"A 2 hrs drive from Kigali will take you to Akagera National park.Guides are excellent and patient while looking for the Game.A 2, days safari isn't bad.I would recommend a boat ride on the Ihema lake as soon as you arrive on day 1, and a full day Game drive focusing on the Northern section over looking Tanzania as it has the highest concentration of wildlife."
combo	"Akagera does not have that many animals (no lions), but I love the fact that you are able to drive arround the park by your self!
combo	A 4WD is a must, so is aircondition.
combo	There are plenty of Tsetse flies in Akagera who are attracted by the engine sound of the car, and driving with the mindows open will result in a lot of unpleasant flies in the car.
combo	Bring water and food for the hole stay, there are no shops or restaurants (besides the two hotels) with in the park.
combo	The hotels are at the south end of the park.
combo	Most animals are in the north.
combo	A good option is to enter by the southern gate and exiting through the northern gate the next day."
combo	"ok, not the vast herds of Kenya, but some of all the animals here is a less visited setting, just 2-3 hours from Kigali.
combo	We stayed at the lakeshore tented facility, lovely and a real feel on being in the bush.
combo	Super comfortable; this is not roughing it.
combo	Guides and professional and we loved every day.
combo	Two days here and you'll see all the species."
combo	Caveat: I've been on safari in the Serengeti and I have fairly low tolerance for sitting in a car.
combo	But I'd have a hard time recommending this park to anyone.
combo	We didn't see many animals and the landscape is pretty monotonous.
combo	There are much prettier and more dramatic places to visit in Rwanda.
combo	"We visited Akagera Park as part of a pretty large group (25 people).
combo	We paid and had a fantastic guide who rode along with us and had amazing knowledge of the history and the animals, as well as lots us personal stories & experiences to share.
combo	It is definitely worth the money to do this (and, if you have a small enough group, to rent the safari vehicle.
combo	We didnt but it looked really cool!).
combo	We saw beautiful animals up close, such as an elephant, giraffes, zebras, alligators, monkeys & more!
combo	it was phenomenal!
combo	Would recommend to anyone, and would love to go back!
combo	Might be worth bringing along some binoculars if you are interested in the birds - one of our group did and we had a lot of fun passing them around to see the detail in them!"
combo	"Akagera is huge and breathtaking and varied.
combo	It is home to a plethora of flora and fauna.
combo	I particularly like that you are able to drive yourselves without a guide; although, this may not be the safest option.
combo	Or the easiest.
combo	The maps are very vague and do NOT include all the potential turn-offs that you encounter.
combo	It is an adventure this way, though.
combo	I haven't camped there yet, but friends have and have been happy with it and the tents that you can rent."
combo	"This park is way underrated in the guidebooks.
combo	It was breathtaking!
combo	Great vistas and up-close wildlife viewing without any crowds.
combo	Seeing giraffes, zebras, and baboons were my highlights.
combo	I also saw hippos, warthogs, vervet monkeys, and lots of birds.
combo	I went in November so during the rainy season so there were almost no bugs and I nearly had the park to myself!
combo	It was great!
combo	I felt like it was great way to get the African safari experience only a day-trip distance from Kigali."
combo	"It is one of our favorite places to take visitors to Rwanda--especially those who have never been to other game parks in Africa.
combo	We love staying at Ruzizi Tented Lodge while there.
combo	The biggest challenge is the horse flies that enter the vehicles and will bite.
combo	However, the park is working to reduce this problem and each time we visit it seems a bit better.
combo	We recommend paying the extra for a guide and if you have a group of 4 or more, rent the Safari Vehicle."
combo	Loved our trip to Akagera... we had a great guide and even though it was the rainy season we still saw many many animals.. the only ones we did not see were the elephants but that's okay.. it was a great day and very reasonable to see animals up close and personal
combo	"Wow!
combo	We spent 2 nights here at Ruzizi tented lodge and the animals were obligingly willing to be seen.
combo	We saw 3 different elephant groups, one set twice.
combo	People kept saying it was amazing to see the elephants and it is possible to come many times without seeing any elephants.
combo	So it just depends on where they are in the vast park.
combo	There are no guarantees but we were lucky.
combo	The boat tours were very interesting the guide was delightful.
combo	We took two of them.
combo	I highly recommend it.
combo	That is where we saw lots of hippos and even an elephant in the water!
combo	Wear light colored clothing.
combo	Do not rent a dark car with a dark interior that has broken airconditioning as the flies acted like it was a magnet for them.
combo	We did one 1/2 day on our own and got a local guide the next 1/2 day.
combo	It was nice with the guide because the roads are scantily marked and this is no problem for the guides who of course are totally familiar with the lay of the land.
combo	It was a bit stressful going without one because of the forementioned road situation.
combo	The guides keep in communication about where the animals have been spotted so it adds to the likelihood of target animals ( for us giraffes) being seen.
combo	We had the trip of a lifetime.
combo	We even saw the future generation of elephant and zebra.
combo	There were klipspringers, waterbuffalo,baboons,&birds galore!"
combo	"We are visiting from Kigali on a long weekend.
combo	We have taken a day long tour, night drive and two boat trips.
combo	We hired a driver and 4x4 in Kigali.
combo	Number to come later in a comment).
combo	On the first sunset boat ride we saw hippos, two crocs (they are very fast) and many different species of birds.
combo	On day safari we were very lucky.
combo	A small group of elephants were blocking out road which made for an very exciting stand off ( the elephant won).
combo	We then saw a leopard LSO in the middle of the road.
combo	The guide had only seen one five times... so this is rare in the day time.
combo	We then saw herds of topi, antelope, impala, water and reed bucks, my favorite...
combo	Many zebra.
combo	Right up north we came across a mud wallowing hippo who treated us to an amble through zebra.
combo	Finally we also found giraffes.
combo	This was pretty much a full house!
combo	Very very lucky.
combo	There are many baboon and monkeys.
combo	Next day we had a daytime boat ride and encountered many bathing hippo and a baby crocodile.
combo	Amazing selection of birds.
combo	That night on the night safari we saw a hyena, but also learnt that animals do not just turn up for tourists to see.
combo	It is however a very different experience and interesting to see the different behavior the animals present at at night.
combo	Tips: go with guide, ours were all excellent.
combo	Ask about the community ...
combo	The stories are interesting....
combo	If you have expensive camera gear learn how to shoot at night so as not to annoy your fellow passengers with your ineptitude while we wait for you to figure it out!
combo	Take a torch out at night and try to sort out aperture under those conditions!
combo	If you have back pain.. Take pain pills before heading out -the roads are bumpy... You really are on safari ."
combo	"This is a beautiful park with rolling hills, fields of flowers, interesting trees, open plains, and game wandering all over.
combo	There are hardly and people there so often it seems that it is just you and the animals.
combo	They seem unconcerned about humans so you can get fairly close for pictures.
combo	There was nothing like looking at the hills in the distance and noticing that one of the ""trees"" along the top profile was really the neck of a giraffe.
combo	I don't know if I would make a special trip to Rwanda to visit this park, but absolutely if you are in Rwanda to see the gorillas I would highly recommend taking two days to stay here and tour the park.
combo	The ride to the park from Kigali or Ruhengeri is interesting too.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful country."
combo	"This park has suffered from the war in the nineteens and the pressures from the population afterwards.The park is now recovering but it will take time to get back to level it was 30 years ago.
combo	The reintroduction of lions and Rhino should help.
combo	The éléphants and girafes are doing fine.
combo	If travelling to Rwanda, it is an interesting activity to do.
combo	A stay at the Ruzizi Tented lodge is a must!"
combo	"Our tour of the park was initially uneventful; we had a pleasant lunch at the cafe after a long journey to the park and had progressed viewing zebra, water buffalo, topi, mongoose and many species of bird.
combo	Our guide (I would definitely recommend hiring a guide) told us he'd seen elephants in the morning and we were returning slightly disappointed when another guide warned us of a bull elephant in musht around the next corner.
combo	We backed around the corner and thankfully were able to make a quick getaway after viewing him at close quarters when he started to charge.
combo	What speed!"
combo	"A very good way to see all the animals in their real environment, both giraffs, hippos, zebras, elephants, crocodiles and a lot of birds but so far no lions.
combo	And you can also be hunted by baboons at the game lodge"
combo	"I really enjoyed my stay in Akagera.
combo	The landscape is stunning and you can see a lot of different animals in a short amount of time.
combo	The staff at the visitor's centre are friendly and helpful, and the prices are reasonable, cheaper than the parks in Tanzania or Uganda.
combo	We stayed at the Northern campsite, which was very beautiful and quiet - we were the only ones there.
combo	Be aware that amenities at the campsite are simple - when we were there, there was no water, so make sure to bring food, water and other stuff which you need."
combo	"Rolling green hills, animals, birds, lakes.
combo	Hire a driver or take your own car through the dirt tracks that cross the park.
combo	Don't miss the boat trip in the evening.
combo	There's a lot of driving, so you have to be patient.
combo	Really beautiful."
combo	"I have been several times in Akagera National Park, and always it is possible to discover the new kind of animals in the you have not meet.
combo	According to seasons the park has various looks and it is better to overnight in the park when you need to meet more animals even Crocodiles and Hippos.
combo	This is a wonderful natural mage of the centuries ago."
combo	"On my previous trip with Peter Gilchrist a Birder witha Checklist of more than 5600 Bird Species, we spotted almost 10 New species in two days.
combo	It's one of the best birding areas of the world with the highest number of species per unit area.
combo	You Should not miss visiting Akagera National Park.
combo	I will highly recommend it to Birders."
combo	"We stayed at Ruzizi tented accommodation for two nights ( absolutely fantastic) and on the final day drove from South to North.
combo	What an experience, stunning country, initially hilled and quite forested and later open plains.
combo	We encountered so much wild life: many, many varied antelope, Hippos, crocs, wart hogs, Giraffe, only one Elephant, baboons and Vervet monkeys, scores of Zebra and the most amazing birdlife, this must surely be a birdwatchers paradise.
combo	Its not cheap, but I am assured that all money goes to the upkeep of the Park.
combo	Plans are afoot to re-introduce lions and Rhinoceros.
combo	Having a good guide certainly helps."
combo	"Bizidanny Tours organized a wonderful trip to Rwanda for us, and Akagera National Park was part of the tour.
combo	We had an excellent driver/guide Magesi who was a great game spotter, and a sturdy jeep with an open roof.
combo	On our safairs in the park we were fortunate to see many of the antelope species (impala, waterbuck, eland, oribi, bushbuck) as well as elephants, wart hogs, vervet monkeys, giraffe, baboons, zebras, cape buffalo, rhinos, a great variety of interesting birds and even a monitor lizard.
combo	Our accommodation was Ruzizi Tented Lodge which was a luxury for us.
combo	From our tent we saw Weaver Birds, monkeys, and a crocodile.
combo	Perfect!"
combo	"I have to say first that we are not Safari aficionados.
combo	Woburn and Windsor don't count apparently.
combo	So this is a review without any comparison.
combo	However........
combo	The most stunning drive from south to north in a day.
combo	Enough animals to keep an Attenborough happy and the most glorious views from the top of the mountain across Lake Ihema to Tanzania.
combo	We took a guide in our own 4x4 (if you intend to self drive I would say a 4x4 is probably essential, especially in the wet) which was helpful but probably not required as the map and signs are reasonably accurate.
combo	He did prove useful in knowing where some of the animals were ""hiding"" though and very knowledgeable about the park history.
combo	No big cats yet though.
combo	Apparently they're still on the cards but a little delayed........... We stayed at the Rusizi tented lodge overnight and if your budget stretches to it then I would say you'd be mad not to.
combo	It's wonderful.
combo	Allow yourself lots of down time there though as its so lovely that you'll want to laze about in your ""tent"".
combo	The sunset boat trip was good for hippo spotting and blowing the cobwebs of the drive from Kigali away.
combo	If you're going to attempt it in a day from Kigali though be warned, it will be a very long days driving."
combo	"Unfortunatey this park is still somewhat suffering from the genocide.
combo	While it is was reduced by 2/3 of its size prior to before the genocide it is still a very large game park.
combo	Many people do not realize that you can go on a full blown safari while in Rwanda.
combo	The birding is fantastic.
combo	We saw lots of animals.
combo	The government is trying to restore this park to its former greatness and it would be great to help it out.
combo	Right now they are working on getting lions back into the park.
combo	One of the best parts of the day was the boat trip.
combo	This is not to be missed.
combo	We got close up to a huge pod of hippos and multiple other pods as well.
combo	We also got to see some crocs and a lot of birds.
combo	This was definitely worth the trip from Kigali.
combo	I would recommend staying at tthe tented lodge, but this could likely be done on a day trip."
combo	"This was my first Safari experience.
combo	Though we had some technical difficulties (unrelated to the park), it definitely did not take away from the loveliness of this place.
combo	The park was the perfect size for a first time safari, not too large or small.
combo	I went during the dry season so most of the game drive consisted of staying around the lake, which is huge.
combo	I was absolutely amazed by the views and the wildlife; I was in awe at the number of zebras, giraffes, and hippos in the park.
combo	If in Rwanda, it is a definite visit- especially now since they decided to repopulate the park with lions in August this year.
combo	I would definitely make sure to double and triple check your tour operator; do not settle and definitely plan in advance!
combo	Make sure to take snacks and pack yourself a lunch or ask your tour operator if they include a meal.
combo	Another option is to do the trip yourself, rent a car and then pay for a tour guide.
combo	I would make sure to contact the park or this lady named Sarah who was particularly helpful: sarahh@african-parks.org."
combo	"Although they are still missing some of the big safari animals, it was still an impressive park with plenty of opportunity to see Africa's unique wildlife at fairly close range."
combo	"Rwanda's first safari park.
combo	It is still under development when we visited.
combo	The entrance, visitor centre and accommodation is in the South which is a little disappointing as our guide informed us that most of the animals were a 8hr round drive in the North!!
combo	However we did see giraffe, zebra, monkeys, baboon, eagles etc.
combo	Our guide was great at spotting them.
combo	There is a leopard but we didn't spot it but I have known 2 groups recently that have so keep your eyes peeled.
combo	They are introducing lions soon when they have finished the fence!
combo	The tented lodges were quite luxurious and very private - ideal for couples but not for children.
combo	We could hear hippos grunting at night and I woke up to a baboon staring at me through the fly cover.
combo	They do run boat trips but this seems disorganised.
combo	Some of our group wanted to go on an early one but were not able to get transport to the dock, 10 minutes away, which was disappointing.
combo	Other guests said the manager had rung ahead to say they were coming and they were 5 minutes late and the boat had left!
combo	NB leanne D, a previous reviewer, mentioned that there are gorillas - there are no gorillas here so don't be disappointed!"
combo	"Expansive and uncrowded, an excellent place to experience the savannah ecosystem and see a broad range of wildlife.
combo	Guides are inexpensive, provide local employment, and well-informed.
combo	Using a guide will enrich the experience in really important ways, including using their contact network to find wildlife in real time, so economize somewhere else and hire a guide."
combo	"Having been to several large zoos, the Natural Bridge Safari, and the Wild Kingdom Safari, I have enjoyed see African animals in what would be assumed their natural habitat.
combo	However, nothing compares to roaming through Akagera National Park in their domain.
combo	The countryside was beautiful and we saw all of the animals although I wanted to see the elephants closer.
combo	We spent the entire day in the park and moved from the south where the lodge is located to the north exit where the plains opened up to giraffe, water buffalo, gazelle, warthogs, and others animals.
combo	It was an amazing drive."
combo	"Educated, experienced guides through tough terrain you trek on a daily basis to locate the gorillas to make sure they are located quickly.
combo	An eco-friendly visit with respect for the environment and the natural habitat"
combo	"I love this place.
combo	It's so wonderful to see the animals up close.
combo	We had a guide this time, which truly makes the experience better.
combo	I would recommend it.
combo	It also helped to have a professional around when a very angry elephant decided to chase after our car."
combo	"This is a beautiful, small national park.
combo	The southern part is mostly thick scrub and lake Ihema - do a boat trip on the lake (30 USD per person during the day for an hour with a guide) to see fish eagles, hippo and Nile crocodiles.
combo	Allow 7-9 hours of driving on dirt roads in a 4x4 to do a loop from the southern entrance to the north and back.
combo	Travel along the Lake Shore Road for the best chance to see large mammals (elephant, giraffe, Zebra, water buck, Impala, Oribi, buffalo all in good numbers within 1-40 metres of this road during my drive).
combo	Travel along the Murumba hills for beautiful views.
combo	Lions due to be introduced in 2014; black rhino in 2015.
combo	I had a very well-informed 'community guide' called Didier - recommended.
combo	You are supposed to take a guide with you on your drive - although this is not strictly enforced (especially if you say you are staying in one of the lodges).
combo	All guides, boat trips etc.
combo	must be booked at the park reception, as well as your entrance fee (30 USD per person per night/day) where there is also a small café, shop, display of animals and information and toilets!
combo	If you are in Kigali, make the trip here - it's not a major safari destination yet, but small and beautiful."
combo	"We were lucky to see Giraffe and hippos.
combo	No African elephant or leopard seen.
combo	Lots of Impalas (deer like animals), zebras, wild pigs and birds.
combo	You can see crocodiles in the lake from so near.
combo	Place was good and not too far from Kigali.
combo	But, do not expect big animals at day time.
combo	View was lovely.
combo	Overall it was a good experience to visit an African national park.
combo	I liked it somehow.
combo	Bring your own food from home as there is not much options.
combo	Bring your own safari/SUV and driver.
combo	Book a guide, its necessary."
combo	This Park is so beautiful!
combo	It is like an African Savannah on steroids!
combo	The hills add great dramatic effect and make the animals look even more incredible set against the beautiful backdrop.
combo	This place is a must visit!
combo	"Bird watchers paradise.
combo	Soon the ""Big 5"" will be there with the re-introduction of lion and black rhino.
combo	Very beautiful park."
combo	"..managed by the well respected African Parks, a non-profit organisation that takes on direct responsibilities for the rehab and long term management of national parks, Akagera is a nugget.
combo	And try the Ruzizi Tented Camp!"
combo	This safari was one of the most amazing adventures ever.
combo	A must see!
combo	The animals within there natural environment is something everyone should experience.
combo	"Unfortunately the fires used to control the undergrowth had got out of hand this year so a large area was burnt and new growth only just beginning.
combo	We only had time for half a day visit and many if the animals had moved further away from this area to find food and water so we didn't see giraffe and zebra.
combo	We did see rare Roan Antelope, baboons, buffaloes, hippos I.
combo	And out of the water, deer, Fish eagle.
combo	The booking in centre has been greatly improved since our last visit about 5 years ago with a cafe, flushed toilets, shop.
combo	However still laboriously slow booking in, paying and acquiring a guide."
combo	"The first thing you need to know about Akagera, if you are planning on going on a safari here, is that it is not like a safari park in Kenya, but it is a great park nonetheless.
combo	The park has plenty of zebras, vervet monkeys, baboons, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles, not to mention buffalo, gazelles, and antelopes.
combo	If you are into bird watching, it is a birder's paradise.
combo	The park will be receiving a pride of lions from Kenya, and some rhinos from South Africa in August of 2014, which should make for a more interesting atmosphere.
combo	There are a few hotels in the park - the Akagera Lodge and a tent hotel.
combo	I have stayed at the lodge a few times and I enjoyed it very much.
combo	I have not stayed at the tent hotel so I can't recommend it."
combo	"If you stay at the Akagera Lodge you're not allowed to leave the compound, not even to go to the lake shore down below.
combo	The lodge grounds are rather unkempt but you can walk through the area where the staff live, as it's bounded by an electric fence.
combo	Staff will prevent you from leaving the compound with dire warnings about the danger of buffalo.
combo	Quite why I can't say.
combo	So ... Bring a vehicle for drives in the park itself.
combo	Lake boat trips : minimum 4(?
combo	People, $30 each"
combo	"I visited Akagera in February this year and it was amazing.
combo	I like so much the landscape.
combo	I was amazing to see Zebra, buffalo and many antelopes.
combo	But also the big elephant.
combo	I had fun with friends.
combo	What I like the most it is how the map that Park guide gave to us was accurate.
combo	We used it and we traveled from south to the north of the Park without any problem.
combo	For people who like Nature please visit this Park"
combo	I loved the comforts of a big safari jeep provided by Intore Expeditions owned by Shelly Anne Rosen and driven by her husband Paul Karemera.
combo	The whole day was filled with taking many photographs of the animals and birds and a delicious picnic lunch was provided.
combo	A must see in Rwanda.
combo	"I have been twice now and loved both trips.
combo	Sadly did not see any elephants but loved the giraffes, zebras, hippos and beautiful birds.
combo	The guides on both trips were very well informed and friendly.
combo	You also get a terrific view of Tanzania."
combo	"Somebody who think:""where are the best place to visit amazing nature with quote and easiest access?
combo	""....Akagera National Park on the border with TZ.
combo	Best time to go, August-December"
combo	"Everything to like here.
combo	The usual Rwandan efficient organisation , with conservation the main priority.
combo	Facilities were just right and the guides very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and helpful.
combo	Felt safe at all times.
combo	And the wildlife- saw every bird on the evening lake boat trip, and hippos, elephant, wart hogs , giraffe, various boks etc.
combo	The giraffe were a real treat and the wart hogs very entertaining.
combo	Lodge Hotel was comfortable and the food great."
combo	"First time safari for me---and I definitely wasn't disappointed at Akagera.
combo	Well, except for the fact that there were no big cats, but they said they're working on bringing those back soon.
combo	It actually was kind of comforting to know that I could enjoy the vast landscape and NOT get mauled by a random big cat, but that just may be the rookie in me talking.
combo	I also was interested to hear about some of the history of the park & its relationship to the people currently living in the area.
combo	For what it's worth, one of our traveling buddies had been on two previous safaris (one in Kenya, the other the Serengeti I think).
combo	And she made clear that this one to Akegera was BY FAR her favorite... for the gorgeous landscape & the sheer amount of animals that you get to see.
combo	We were even just yards away from giraffe, hippos (they stayed in the water), zebra, & 3 huge elephants.
combo	AWESOME!
combo	Just pack a lunch & be prepared for an all-day trip---it takes 6 hours just to drive from the entrance to the exit.
combo	And also, there's virtually NO ONE ELSE THERE in the park with you, so take caution: if your safari jeep breaks down, you basically have to sit & wait until closing time for help to come.
combo	That's when management will realize that you haven't made it out yet, and they'll come to your aid... and depending on what time it is & where you are stranded in the park, it may take some hours for them to find you.
combo	So depending on how you feel about safaris, that information is either terrifying or awesome to you."
combo	Great game drive with a wide number of animal species.
combo	All ages can visit with a great lodge to stay at.
combo	"We've been to the big parks in Tanzania and Kenya, so it was pretty amazing that you could see many of the same animals and even landscapes in just 1220 square kilometres: Cape buffaloes, giraffes, gazelles, elephants, hippos, baboons, zebras, etc.
combo	With the addition of rhinos and lions in the next 6 months, it will be a coup for Akagera to be able to provide what the Serengeti, Tsavo East/West, or Masai Mara does just 2 hours outside of Kigali.
combo	I recommend the boat ride on Lake Ihema, but it should be longer (2-3 hours).
combo	of the tsetse flies!
combo	They were really bad in certain parts of the park and nearly ate us up alive despite being covered.
combo	Be sure to wear double layers, use special spray for your clothing, and to cover your face and hands.
combo	I had a nasty allergic reaction to their bites: big, itchy, red welts that take a week to disappear!
combo	AT RUZIZI TENTED CAMP, the nicer, more luxurious option compared to the sad-looking Akagera Game Lodge that badly needs a face lift."
combo	"A nice wildlife Reservoit in the east of Rwanda, located straight to the Tanzania Border.
combo	There are plenty animals to see except the Big 5.
combo	But when your lucky you can see some of them like the Elephant, Hippos, and Giraffes.
combo	We had a great day there after some busy Business Days in Kigali.
combo	Great to chill and come done in this quiet nice place.
combo	Absolutly to recommend even its a 3 hour ride away from Kigali City with partly bad road`s....."
combo	If you are in Rwanda then do visit Akagera National Park.
combo	Lots of wild animals in the park( except Lions).
combo	Only Ruzizi Tent Lodge is the decent accommodation.
combo	Start your trip early in the morning ( the park open at 6 am).
combo	...i was so excited about the species richeness of the park.
combo	its wildlife was great with its enthusiatic wild manuavoures nver to forget!
combo	!
combo	"Akager is a very nice park and we saw lots of wildlife.
combo	The northern part is the most open, and where you see most of the bigger animals.
combo	However, it's a long drive from the lodges in the Southern part.
combo	You can't enter the park at the northern end, but you can exot there for a quicker drive back in the evening."
combo	"we were here 2 days , it was amazing , saw elephants giraffes and others also took a 2 hour boat ride saw many birds and monitor lizards stayed at the Akagera lodge rooms were great and the views were awesome , baboons at the front entrance doors were funny , would go back to visit.
combo	Our driver Jean-Paul from Mega Safari was very good, well worth the $ ."
combo	"the variety of wildlife here is incredible, i do not anticipate seeing half as much as I did.
combo	the guides available are knowledgeable and well worth getting.
combo	It is worth paying out for the night safari which offers a very different insight to the park."
combo	"I know that if I visited Kenya and Tanzania to see mammoth-sized park, I can not recommend Akagera National Park.
combo	But, this one has its uniqueness for travelers who wants to be calm and alone.
combo	Not crowded Akagera will give you time to see animals in a pleasant way.
combo	It seems that, 'this big park is mine!'"
combo	"Even though the park has no big cats (2 leopards but not really possible to see) it was a great moment.
combo	The park has unique and beautiful views thanks to several hills, lakes and birds.
combo	We started early (6:30 am) to make sure we get to the animals before it's too hot.
combo	We saw several impalas, zebras, buffaloes, baboons, monkeys, hippos, 1 giraffe but unfortunately no elephants.
combo	We were back at the entrance by 10:30.
combo	Be just careful of the tan flies in some areas as they sting quite strongly."
combo	Great road trip and camping site.
combo	Nice lake view but it was hard to spot animals apart from baboons.
combo	"What a wonderful safari we seen so many animals.
combo	The roads were rough traveling in a land rover, jeep.
combo	Had lunch in the park and was able to see a storm brew over the river.
combo	A wonderful experience.
combo	The guide told us the park is 6hrs from North-South a very large park.
combo	He also said they will have lions in the next year.
combo	They are trying to figure out to let them roam in an area of their own."
combo	"We didn't see any large animals, we saw lots of buck and beautiful exquisite birds.
combo	Apparently the big animals hang out further north in the park.
combo	The bonus was that it felt like our very own private game reserve as we didn't see another soul."
combo	"We stayed in the park for 2 nights!
combo	It was wonderful!
combo	We saw many animals-giraffe, zebra, hippos, buffalo, gazelles, monikers, and so many more!!
combo	The roads are ROUGH but well worth it!
combo	No elephants-the only disappointing park of the visit.
combo	Simply beautiful there!"
combo	"There are only a few elephants here so we were very lucky to see 2 together.
combo	Loads of Giraffe, zebra, monikers, water buffalo, hippopotamus, gazelles, wart hog, and other animals and birds.
combo	A great opportunity to see African animals in their natural habitat in a half or whole day trip - I suppose it was a Safari!.
combo	I would go back again for 3rd time if opportunity arises."
combo	"Our group of 10 traveled in two jeeps.
combo	We hired one guide, who was outstanding, and even led us on some off road searching for the elephant (we found one!
combo	), the crocodiles and the hippos (We saw them, too!).
combo	Despite one flat tire and blown shocks, we had a great trip through the park.
combo	The north gate is still closed because the bridge is out, so you enter from the south gate, travel about three hours north, and then three hours back.
combo	It's a lot of driving, but well worth it.
combo	Not the thousands of animals you see elsewhere in Africa, but far fewer tourists and other vehicles as well."
combo	"Kilala plains is the most beautiful part of this park.
combo	It is near North Gate.
combo	Unfortunately this gate is closed for a bridge renovation.
combo	South has very few animals so you wont enjoy much because you would see the same animals at different place.
combo	Going to north and returning on the same path would be tedious as roads are not good.
combo	1.
combo	Animals are very less.
combo	Due to Summer?
combo	2.
combo	Guides are very friendly.
combo	3.
combo	Over priced.
combo	my point of view) Tips: During this trip you might face a lot of flies which targets your vehicle.
combo	So don't open you window.
combo	Much bigger than house flies.
combo	Its sting would cause a swelling.
combo	Be careful.
combo	Especially drivers.
combo	Overall, a good new experience.
combo	Really enjoyed."
combo	"We drove our own car and camped, but did hire a night and day guide for animal tracking.
combo	Really enjoyed William and Denise on our trips although we had quite the experience with a broken window which allowed hundreds of horse flies into the car.
combo	They are relentless so make sure you have an air conditioned car with working windows!
combo	We saw virtually every animal, except the leopard.
combo	A great day and I would encourage both the night and day safari."
combo	"When we were there, the North gate was not open.
combo	We got to Akagera right after it opened.
combo	Damison, our guide was wonderful.
combo	He knew exactly how to navigate the park!
combo	We saw every type of animal that we had heard we MIGHT see, except an elephant (which Damison apologized profusely about).
combo	Our friends went 2 days later and got to see one!
combo	Because the north gate is closed, it took all day.
combo	Allow 9 hours.
combo	Our jeep was the best!
combo	It wasn't totally open.
combo	The top popped up and we could stand and see out.
combo	I wouldn't go on a bus, and I don't think I would like the totally open jeeps.
combo	There were lots of horse flies during the mid morning."
combo	I visit Akagera frequently and always enjoy it but arrived last time to find the north gate was closed because a bridge had broken down.
combo	I thought there would be a lot of urgency to get this gate open again as the north end has substantially more wildlife than the south end but I was told it might be several months.
combo	This seems unacceptably long to have a main visitor attraction in Rwanda closed at its best point.
combo	we went in the south end but had a 3.5 hour journey back up to the north before seeing much.
combo	Still worth going to but check if north gate is open.
combo	"Our visit to the Akagera National Park surpassed all expectations.
combo	We had been told by previous visitors that we shouldn't expect to see much.
combo	So with low expectations we set off with our privately rented Great Wall truck.
combo	And we say plenty - elephant, hippos, crocodiles, zebras +++ The highlight was getting out of the truck with our guide to basically hang out with some giraffes.
combo	They were incredibly calm and actually seemed to find us quite interesting.
combo	Amazing experience!
combo	We chose to bring one of the park's guides with us - it's 30 USD for the day and absolutely worth the money.
combo	He knew spots that we would've never found on our own.
combo	The park is huge and the rough roads are not easy to keep track of without some local help.
combo	We also did the visit as a day trip from Kigali, but it is definitely worth spending the night there and perhaps catch a night safari as well.
combo	There are definitely a lot of time when you see nothing but scrub - but the moments when the animals are all around you are well worth being tossed around the car all day!"
combo	"it s a chaotic road to join the animals but it s worth it.
combo	It was so amazing to be next to elephant, giraffe , hypo,impala,crocodile, buffalo, zebra and many others.
combo	I recommend you to take video than photo as the light is not really good unless you are a professional or have very good zoom lenses.
combo	It s really cheap compared to the gorilla s, you have to pay a fee for your personal jeep,your dirver, your guide and the permit to enter the park.
combo	It will cost you a little more than a 100$.
combo	the main cost is the rent of a jeep, better to be a large group to reduce cost."
combo	"My first safari (apart from the sterile , pretend Disney ones) and it was excellent.
combo	The guide was incredibly informative and was amazingly observant, spotting crocodiles and warthogs from a great distance.
combo	The driver got us as close to the animals as possible, and we had a picnic lunch sitting by giraffes.
combo	Absolutely memorable experience.
combo	We saw a wide range of animals and even got chased by an angry bull elephant whilst waiting near the fishermen's cottages for a boat ride.
combo	A different guide on the boat ride was also excellent and gave a very interesting talk about all the birds on the island.
combo	I highly recommend the boat ride.
combo	Lions are being introduced in November which will be interesting (especially for the complacent and brave zebra!!
combo	and we probably won't be able to have any more picnics with the giraffes!!
combo	It is a safari in its most natural setting and of course there is no guarantee that all animals will be around to view, but we were very happy.
combo	If the north entrance is open (at the time of writing it is closed due to a bridge collapse) then you are advised to enter the park through this entrance rather than the south entrance.
combo	If you go through the south it is a long drive (3hours) to see the majority of animals which all seem to gather towards the north.
combo	Take plenty of water and food.
combo	Do use toilets at reception and , afterwards 'bush toilet'!!
combo	And do invite your ranger/guide and driver to eat with you.
combo	They tend not to take much to drink or any food and very politely sit away from the group at lunch stops.
combo	And arrive early - 7.30 ish."
combo	"Visited Akagera June 2013.
combo	Arrived on a Monday evening, stayed in the lodge on the top of the hill.
combo	Slightly aging, but still well maintained, and has a pool with beautiful view of the lake below.
combo	Arranged for a guide for the next day, to meet at the park visitor center at 0700.
combo	Ate dinner in the lodge restaurant, decent enough by Rwandan standards.
combo	Ordered box lunches for the next morning from the restaurant, sandwiches, fruit, water.
combo	Took a quickie drive down to the lake to see the fairly new tent lodge (Rizuzu I think).
combo	It looked interesting, and I would consider staying there if I went back, for variety.
combo	Tuesday morning we got up early and had breakfast in the lodge restaurant, opens at 0530AM.
combo	Picked up our box lunches, checked out, and met our guide at the visitor center.
combo	I guess if you really knew the park layout well and were a naturalist or wildlife expert, you might drive around on your own without a guide.
combo	We however were glad to have the guide, enjoyed her company and knowledge, and felt like we were contributing to the economy and financial health of the park.
combo	Guide also has a radio.
combo	We drove north, doubled back, and returned to the south entrance, and all day trip.
combo	Saw many birds, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, hippos, impala, bushbuck, topi, buffalo, hippo, and elephants.
combo	Apparently on a weekend, there may be as many as twenty vehicles at one time in the popular viewing areas, which is why we went on a Tuesday.
combo	We saw at most five other vehicles all day long.
combo	You drive your own vehicle for daytime viewing.
combo	Park offers a night trip and boat trip in their vehicles.
combo	Should be a 4x4 SUV type vehicle, one you would expect to see in a safari.
combo	Functional air conditioning would be desirable / luxury.
combo	Our Toyota landcruiser type vehicle had broken AC.
combo	It was not that hot with the windows down, but in one area there were terrible biting horse flies, hence the desire for AC, to be able to close the windows and keep out some of the dust.
combo	Rough roads with potholes.
combo	Wear: long pants, long sleeve shirt, hat, close toed shoes or boots, long sox.
combo	Bug repellant/DEET.
combo	Drinking water.
combo	Binoculars.
combo	Camera with good telephoto lens.
combo	Bird/animal guidebook.
combo	Remember, this is not the zoo.
combo	You could theoretically get killed by several of these animals: elephant, crocodile, hippo, buffalo.
combo	The zebra never sees the crocodile that is about to eat it at water's edge.
combo	Don't be stupid."
combo	"The safari isn't as spectacular as those in other parts of the continent, but the people and the service are great.
combo	You'll get to see giraffes, zebras, all kinds of deer, and wild buffalo.
combo	If you're lucky, you can see wild boar, hippos, and crocodiles.
combo	The Akagera lodge has good food and a spacious and nice bar with plenty of outdoor and poolside seating."
combo	"I have been to this park many times, not always to do games drives but rather sometimes as an escape from city life and for a taste of nature.
combo	I have done day drives, camped with friends on a ridge and also stayed at the lodge.
combo	I have always enjoyed it but the peak experience was sitting around the camp fire with a group of friends and a glass of red wine in hand with starlit black velvet above, and interesting sounds around.
combo	In the morning the view of the Lakes towards Tanzania was fabulous.
combo	Simply awesome!
combo	The last time I went, it was for a day game drive with a friend who had returned to Rwanda for a conference.
combo	The north side of the park is the place to go for good game viewing.
combo	The sun shone all day and a gentle breeze helped keep us cool.
combo	We saw elephants, several kinds of antelope including the shy bush buck, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, baboons, a couple of different kinds of monkeys, hippo, & crocodile.
combo	We also saw many birds, including the elusive Shoebill Stork.
combo	The lake proved a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, with the hippos peering at us from the water.
combo	All-in-all, a perfect day!
combo	Toilet facilities are available at the gates.
combo	A four wheel drive is necessary.
combo	Carry a picnic lunch and plenty to drink unless you are going to eat at the Lodge.
combo	If you are not staying overnight, you need a full day leaving very early in the morning"
combo	"I had a great day in Akegara National Park today.
combo	I have not been to any other parks in Africa but I was surprised at how many animals I was, including elephabt, giraffe, zebra, impala, cape buffalo, hippo, crocodile and others.
combo	Apparently lions and rhino are being reintroduced in the near future.
combo	My guide, Emmanuelle, was excellent.
combo	He clearly loves animals and is very knowledgable about both mammals and birds.
combo	He also speaks fluent English.
combo	I was surprised that we were able to drive the whole way from the south gate to the north gate in around six hours without rushing.
combo	I went in early May, the end of the wet season, but the roads were in fair condition and we only missed out on a couple of waterlogged sections in the plains in the north.
combo	Definately worth going to the North of the park as you will see large herds of animals there in open savannah, wheras the south is dense bush so there are fewer animals.
combo	Having said that I saw plenty of animals including an elephant, zebras, baboon and warthog in the south.
combo	The park is very well run and organised.
combo	I would say having a guide is pretty much essential.
combo	The cost of the guide was $30 for the whole day.
combo	the park entry fee is $30 and you pay an extra 4000 RWF for using your own vehicle.
combo	We set off at 5.30am and arrived back in kigali at 6.30.
combo	A long but managable day.
combo	Horse flies are vety common in the bush areas so i would recommend trousers and long sleeves (though they can bite through clothes).
combo	I organised the drip through Jambo tours near the belgian school in Kigali for $250 including driver and fuel.
combo	The driver Jean Claude had OK English.
combo	In summary, Akegara might not have as many game animals as the classic African reserves, you'll still see quite a lot, and the setting unique and spectacular.
combo	Well worth the 2 hour trip from Kigali."
combo	"Exciting to see animals in their natural environment.
combo	Dirt roads that sometimes wash over, so you need a 4-wheel drive car, or hire a park ranger to take you around.
combo	We had a private driver and guide who knew where the animals congregate at certain times of the day.
combo	Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to see the most activity.
combo	Congrats to Rwanda for providing a preserve for these dwindling wildlife populations."
combo	"If your expectations are set correctly, you will really enjoy this park.
combo	There are no ""big cats"" but plenty of other animals to see - giraffes, hippos, crocs, zebra, warthog, water buffalo, baboons, monkeys, etc.
combo	We enjoyed it as a day trip from Kigali and got some great photos.
combo	Our guide, James, who had been working there for 12 years, seemed as excited by the animals as we were, so that really made it fun.
combo	He knew loads of facts and could identify the bird species on sight."
combo	"I live in rwanda about a year and I had to visit Akagera.
combo	My wife has been there 4 times.
combo	Actually, there are a lot of animals and birds there, but no mammals at all.
combo	If You compare Akagera with nationals parks of Tanzania, Kenya or even Uganda, of course in that case Akagera is a waste of time.
combo	But if You are not from Africa and this is your first visit to national park You will be just amazed.
combo	I was."
combo	"If you wanna get in touch with nature then, this is the place to be.
combo	Extremely serene and a chance to see Africa Wildlife.
combo	Also the air is cool and fresh, away from the city pollution"
combo	"As mentioned by others, Akagera has no big game (although our guide said there are some cheetahs now but hard to find in the daytime), but there are plenty of giraffes, zebras, impalas, water buffalo, wart hogs, antelope, and rhinos.
combo	There are also elephants and some Versed monkeys, but we didn't see many.
combo	The Akagera Lodge needs serious updating, although the food was fine and the resident troop of baboons entertaining.
combo	We were the only people staying there in Jan. (weekday) although our daughter-in-law said it gets busy in the high season.
combo	We drove down to see the new Ruzizi Tented Lodge, which looks wonderful.
combo	More expensive than the lodge but not that much more and lovely setting and tented ""huts"" (much nicer than that word with very nice bathrooms en suite).
combo	Also mentioned--be prepared for rough roads and tetse flies.
combo	They bite and the sting lasts for about 10-15 minutes, but you won't get sick from them.
combo	Keep the car windows rolled up in those areas.
combo	We left Kigali about mid-day so had one late afternoon drive around the area not too far from the lodge and drove up to the campsite at the top, which has a very good view of the park: water buffalo, giraffes, antelopes.
combo	We spent the next day driving the park from the south to the north and got back to Kigali about 7:30 p.m. after stop at a market for beans and mangoes.
combo	While Akagera doesn't compare with better known game parks, it is still quite full of wildlife and very nice."
combo	"Akagera is a pretty park and is entertaining, but hopefully they can get black rhino and lions in the park soon.... With Queen Elizabeth so close and affordable, it is hard for Akagera to compete!
combo	For a quick weekend trip, it is worth the drive!
combo	The lodge needs to be improved!!"
combo	"We enjoyed a weekend in Akagera with family, with the bonus of staying two nights at the new Ruzizi Tented Camp.
combo	Loved the idea of eco friendly lodging, and it was done exceedingly well, with marvelous views of the lake, intriguing sounds of the night, and good food.
combo	Staff was very helpful as well.
combo	We decided to ask for a particular guide for viewing the park to join us in our vehicle on the recommendation of a Rwandan friend who lives in Kigali.
combo	The guide's name is Cecile Muvunyi (if I got the spelling right!).
combo	We asked for her at the park check-in, and luckily she was available.
combo	We would phone ahead to request her next time.
combo	She knew her animals and birds, not just identifying them but telling us stories about their life and habits.
combo	We had no trouble understanding her English.
combo	We particularly enjoyed sitting in the midst of 30 or so giraffes; we parked for awhile and the giraffes came right up around us.
combo	Lots of other animals.
combo	My husband said that he'd identified 58 or so different species of birds, about 10 new to him.
combo	The roads in the park need work; we did see a road grater out smoothing down the road to Ruzizi.
combo	It took us 10 hours to drive the 102 kilometers we went within the park, with plenty of stops included, and around 2 hours to return to the south entrance by driving 100 kilometers outside the park.
combo	We've been to many of the big game parks in So.
combo	Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Uganda; Akagera has a much smaller variety of animals.
combo	But it is a pleasant park with a beautiful setting.
combo	Bring water, sunscreen repellant, and food.
combo	Toilet facilities were available at the two entrances."
combo	"If you want to see some wild life in Rwanda and do not have much money and time, Akagera is the park to visit in one day, leaving early from Kigali, we were lucky to see elephants, hippo, giraffe, plenty of impala and buffalo.. no lions unfortunately but there will be some in the near future."
combo	"Of course, you cannot compare Akagera with the large parks in Tanzania, Kenya or RSA.
combo	But in this small park, you're quite often alone with the animals.
combo	Orientation is easy.
combo	It's very likely to see any big game in the park in a single day.
combo	It's an only 2.5 hours drive from Kigali.
combo	And camping in the dark, with only the stars above and the campfire beneath you, makes you feel like being alone in the world (except for neighboring campers and herds of water buffalos, but isn't that part of the fun, too?)"
combo	We rented a vehicle and took off for Akagera safari.
combo	We stopped and retained the services of a guide who rode with us.
combo	I was able to get great photos of many wild animals.
combo	Purchased a boxed lunch at the hotel which was very good as well.
combo	Watch out as the baboons will take your box if you don't watch it.
combo	"As far as African game parks go, Akagera is not impressive.
combo	With that sad, the park management was recently taken over by the pros from So Africa.
combo	Expect lions in the near future!
combo	Save your money and instead go for what Rwanda is really know for- gorillas!"
combo	"Akagera National Park is Rwanda's safari park.
combo	I have been in the park many times (at least 13) and have always had a wonderful time and have seen many animals.
combo	It is good to know that this park is not the home of rhino's, lions or wildebeest.
combo	However there are many cape buffalo, hippo, giraffe, antelope, eland, zebra, birds,baboons and more.
combo	There are elephants but often shy and not always seen.
combo	That said I have experienced them close up and in small groups of about 6-8 and lone males.
combo	Take to option to take a ranger with you as he may know of or hear from other rangers where the animals are that day.
combo	I will also respond to the comment of the tsetse flies.
combo	Yes they are in the park but it is not a 3-4 hour drive through the area from the North to the South.
combo	The park suggests wearing light colors as they are attracted to dark colors.
combo	The park is not to be skipped because of these little buggers.
combo	I suggest taking your own picnic lunch and enjoy the time outdoors and in nature watching what animals do.
combo	The park is a wonderful day trip or overnight.
combo	There are now two places to stay, the Akagera lodge and the new Rusizi Tented Camp.
combo	Go and enjoy."
combo	"I've heard mixed reviews about Akagera, but I personally had a great experience while visiting.
combo	I lived in Kigali for three months and visited Akagera for one full day while there.
combo	If you have time, it might be nice to stay the weekend.
combo	But, I did not want to spend money on the lodge and did not have friends to stay and camp with (although I've heard that's a great time).
combo	We visited the Northern side of the park, which is typically where more of the animals are.
combo	I saw giraffes, zebras, wild buffalo, elephants, baboons, antelope, hippos, and tons of wild birds.
combo	Akagera is the closest thing Rwanda has to seeing these types of wild animals, but I think many people become disappointed because they expect it to be like a safari.
combo	If you go with the expectation of Akagera being a national park that has wild animals, the experience is much better.
combo	I really enjoyed my experience."
combo	This is a small game park but is easily accessible from Kigali.
combo	Some of the expected animals are there but sightings of the major predators are rare.
combo	"If you are looking for Tsetse flies you don’t have to look any further.
combo	If you have been to other national parks in Africa there is a good chance you will get disappointed.
combo	The forest is quite dense so the chance of seeing wildlife is not very big.
combo	You will see some buffalo, impala’s, warthogs and if you are lucky an elephant but you will not see it very well and the animals are very shy.
combo	There are leopards (we spoke to a farmer that works in the park!!
combo	and have seen one) but the chance of seeing them is very low.
combo	There are no lions but there are some plans to reintroduce them in the park in a couple of years.
combo	There are also no other cat’s like Cheetahs.
combo	You can do a boat ride but both boats broke down a couple of weeks before we arrived so we don’t know how that is.
combo	They didn’t seem very eager to repair it.
combo	Driving in the park you will definitely see a lot (hundreds) of tsetse flies.
combo	They can give a nasty bite.
combo	If you drive for about 3-4 hours in the tsetse area you can reach a part that is more open where you can see some other game like zebra’s, topi’s, giraffes, etc.
combo	This part is the nicest part of the park."
combo	"Rwanda is special, because of the wide range of environments that you can find from mountains to rain forest to savannah.
combo	Akagera is one of these special places.
combo	It might not have the number of species or the ""Big 5"", but it has stunning views with a variety of animals.
combo	It can also be done as a day trip from Kigali.
combo	It can also be easily done self-drive.
combo	The north seems to be the most interesting part of the park with more animals, but the only accomodation is tents with outhouses.
combo	The south has a lodge, a tented-camp and camping options.
combo	A trip from the north to the south takes at least 4 hours to complete.
combo	Not many parks exist where you can see a giraffe on a mountain with the blue sky as a background."
combo	"We spent a great couple of days in Agakera National Park.
combo	Although the southern area has a wonderful variety of birds and burtterflies, for larger wildlife time spent in the north is more rewarding - and has fewer of the annoying flies.
combo	Our highlights were the hippos and giraffes (6 in view at once).
combo	Despite some reviews on this site, the Akagera Game Lodge (name varies in some reviews) was fine.
combo	OK it needs a makeover in parts (e.g.
combo	bathrooms) but the beds were comfortable, the food edible, and the staff extremely friendly.
combo	A tip - make sure your fuel guage shows 'full' before you enter the park: it's a long way to the nearest petrol station!"
combo	"Count your luck if you want to see some carnivores , yet there is no dearth for other animals .
combo	A picturesque place with Akagera lodging providing you an excellent food and lodging facility .
combo	Its advisable to carry your own gear for camping and stay out in the night and spend a day or two rather than a lone visit, keep a good camera with you and you can have some pictures that can give run to national geographic guys :)"
combo	"Nice national park, where you can drive your own car.
combo	Very few other tourists.
combo	We saw giraffes, zebras, lots of different antelopes, hippos, elephants, buffalos.. No big cats though.
combo	Beautiful scenery in the north."
combo	"Akagera is obviously one of the highlights in Rwanda, but the lodge is a sorry excuse for lodging... run down, uninspired and overpriced, you endure it rather than enjoy it."
combo	"This is not quite the Serengeti, but it is still wonderful.
combo	Last time we were there (late summer 2012), we must have seen at least 20 elephants up close.
combo	Giraffes, hippos, hyenas, leopards, zebras .
combo	. . but no lions.
combo	Rwanda has such terrific diversity, it is great to be able to see a bit of what one traditionally associates with East Africa in this friendly, welcoming, crime and corruption-free country.
combo	Definitely recommend a pop-up roof Land Cruiser rental, if you can swing it.
combo	Makes the game-viewing experience much more enjoyable."
combo	"We drove ourselves through the Akagera National Park and all I can say is ""WOW"".
combo	We saw wildlife of nearly every species you would expect.
combo	We chose a guide at the park office for a very modest fee and she accompanied us through the park.
combo	Wonderful drive and one we will never forget."
combo	"Seeing these animals in the wild was an experience worth the 2 hour bus trip from Kigali.
combo	Hippos wallowing, giraffes gracefully walking by and buffalo and antelope casually going on with their business was pretty amazing.
combo	All in as natural surroundings as could be imagined.
combo	A great place to visit"
combo	"I have been to Akagera four times and it has been amazing each time.
combo	The hotel beds are hard, but the views are great.
combo	They recently changed their pricing so the rooms are more affordable, but they really try to get you with the meals.
combo	There are no other choices than to eat in the dining room.
combo	They are charging about $20.00 US for dinner and lunch is not much cheaper.
combo	If you can, go on the boat safari to bird island.
combo	There are thousands of birds and there are crocs and hippos too."
combo	Looks like Noe Arch when rainy day !
combo	Total liberty for all.
combo	Simply magic to watch Buffaloes and Zebra ..watching you quietly.
combo	Camping on the top of the hills is a gift.
combo	Very sweet landscape.
combo	"Each safari location is different.
combo	If you go here expecting as many animals as Kenya or Tanzania you'll be disappointed.
combo	However, what you will get is a personally tailored experience.
combo	Plus you will be able to get closer to the game than in any other park.
combo	Also it's much cheaper than other parks.
combo	Something to think about if you're in the region."
combo	"Regardless of size, beauty can be found anywhere and Akagera National Park certainly deserves recognition.
combo	This was my first African safari and I saw numerous animals.
combo	It was unbelievable.
combo	For photos and details about my trip, you can visit my blog: http://journeysforthesoul.wordpress.com/2012/08/18/safaris-for-the-soul-akagera-national-park/ I went with a tour company since I did not have my own car.
combo	It was Virunga Expedition Tours and they charged $150 per person.
combo	I was very pleased with the service and would use them again.
combo	For the day trip, I left at 4:30am from Kigali and returned at 7:30pm.
combo	Whenever I travel, I make it a point to contribute to the national parks.
combo	With the recent mass slaughter of elephants in neighboring countries, I felt it that much more important to contribute to the upkeep of this park.
combo	Tip: I traveled in the dry season and was informed to start in the north and work our way down.
combo	I saw many animals this way (giraffes, zebras, elephants, hippos, etc).
combo	I only did a one-day trip, but was a bit sorry I didn't stay the evening to do a night safari as well."
combo	"Three hours drive from the capital, on the Tanzanian border, lies this park with as much wildife as the Masai Mara - but a fraction of the visitors.
combo	Hire a guide and be led around the park.
combo	Entrance about $30 pp, guide another $30."
combo	"We drove our own vehicle thru the park.
combo	It could have been marked better..but the animals were well worth the trouble.
combo	The giraffe were just wonderful.
combo	Saw Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Leopard, Hipo, Croc.
combo	, monkeys, and so many different birds.
combo	This was an easy drive from Kigali, Rwanda.
combo	a great day trip..but you will want to spend atleast one night at the lodge in the park and drive around a second day."
combo	"The biggest problem was a complete lack of information about where to go, where to see the most animals.
combo	We went to the south entrance because it was closer, only to learn when we got there that because it was the dry season, most of the animals were in the northern part of the park.
combo	So we had to drive two hours to the north without seeing much of anything.
combo	It would have helped if the website had noted this.
combo	The fee structure is also opaque--$30 per person for foreigners, plus a vehicle fee, and a guide in $30 extra, not free as some other reviewers said.
combo	Our guide wasn't really worth the $30 plus tip.
combo	I have seen more animals, closer up in the South African game parks.
combo	The other thing to know is that the roads are all dirt and very bumpy--you really have to be driving an SUV.
combo	Also there are no restaurants, so bring your own food and water.
combo	And the only toilets are at the north and south entrances.
combo	So when you see those, use them.
combo	For the ladies, there aren't any good bushes in between."
combo	"We ended our stay in Rwanda with a two night stay in the Akagera National Park.
combo	Our excellent guide entered the park from the north end, as we had left Kigali very early in the morning and had time to drive through the entire park that day, ending at the Akagera Lodge.
combo	It was the perfect plan, as few people had been to the north end yet that day.
combo	We saw many animals, giraffe families, buffalo, hippos, etc, but no elephants.
combo	I've been on safari elsewhere, but I feel that seeing big animals move across open savannah is a breathtaking experience that should be sought at every opportunity.
combo	And Akagera is peaceful and lovely."
combo	We travelled round the north end of the park and saw so many animals and birds.
combo	We had intended on spending a few hours but it was so great that we spent the whole day
combo	"As close to a safari as you can get in Rwanda, Akagera is a stunning national park.
combo	It's easy to get around, with or without a guide."
combo	"After having travelled on muddy roads, the scenery does not change a lot.
combo	The animals, eventhough not a novelty to see from such a short distance, reappear throughout the safari."
combo	"Zebras, giraffes, water buffalo, antelope, impala, hippos - this was fantastic.
combo	We even saw a group of elephants.
combo	One of our guides had been there five times and this was the first time she'd seen them.
combo	We felt pretty darn lucky!"
combo	"Mum and I had a great drive from Kigali to Akagera with Sam our driver for the day.
combo	We had booked him through mum's friends at The Woodlands Hotel in Kigali.
combo	My first experience of a 'safari', so I can't compare to other countries, but, for me it was thoroughly enjoyable... we saw buffalo, impala, zebra, wart (water?
combo	hogs, hippo, crocs, baboon, velvet monkeys and plenty of Giraffe.
combo	At one point we were surrounded by about 20 Giraffe and watching them, watching us was a great experience.
combo	I would take repellant with you and don't wear blue, as the tetsi flies were out in force and give nasty bites.
combo	Have an early start, as its an all day adventure."
combo	"The variety of animals are limited, however it is very near to Kigali and also reasonably priced.
combo	The hotel is in bad shape but still usable and cheap for Rwandan standards.
combo	The drives can be done alone by getting a Map from the counter.
combo	If you get a guide from the counter they will usually try to finish it off fast and we felt being ushered through the whole thing quickly so that they can go to the next client.
combo	The maps are detailed, some areas are still being numbered to the new numbers on the Map so i would recommend a GPS enabled phone also along with the map so that you can easily navigate through the park.
combo	It is not really big so there is nothing much to worry about any ways.
combo	The night safari is not recommended, you will not see many animals.
combo	The best route would be to go through the lakes early morning and then do a second round through the swamps in the evening.
combo	The early morning ride will mostly give you an encounter with some elephants and the evening ride with the other inhabitants."
combo	"We were lucky we went in their safari car,we were sitting at the top of the car and seeing all kinds of animals like giraffes,zebras,warthogs,lions,leopards,antelopes,hyenas,elephants and they are rogue elephants,hippos,and crocodiles and birds.We were camping there for a month and we paid US$10000.
combo	I am telling you dont take the risk because the hippo had come out of the water and we were lucky that we got out of there.The guide was kind and knowledgeable, he was telling so much about the park,he was telling us about the importation of the animals."
combo	"I have visited the park.
combo	it has many animals but no big preditors, lions etc.
combo	It has 2 geraffes and only one elephant, that you may nor see.
combo	It has lots of Zebras, dears, buffalos.
combo	it has hippos nad crocodiles that you may not see.
combo	If you want to see elephants and lions, you should consider visiting the queen Elizabeth park in Uganda."
combo	"it is very expensive and poor the service is not good, the menu is poor"
combo	We've been to Akagera several times.
combo	It's a great place to take visitors for a day.
combo	We always use a local tour company because their vehicles are up to the task as a result the experience is improved.
combo	The large tour company vehicles have roofs that can be lifted allowing you stand and get a better view.
combo	Also everybody in the party can concentrate on the animals.
combo	We always enter and leave by the north gate as it is in the north of the park that most of the animals can be found.
combo	There are very few predators (a small number of hyenas and crocodiles) here so there is an abundance of antilope etc.
combo	The families of giraffe that walk across the savannah are majestic to watch.
combo	There are elephant but they are very elusive.
combo	A few tips - take a packed lunch as the only place to buy food is in the lodge which is at the southern end of the park.
combo	Watch out for the horse flies.
combo	A good pair of binoculars and a good camera lense will help you enjoy and remember your experience to the fullest extent.
combo	"A day like this in Kenya or Tanzania will cost big $$$.
combo	At Akagera, $30 pp gets a 6 hour drive with a knowledgeable Rwandan park guide.
combo	The park is recovering from refugee movment and Tanzanian poachers.
combo	The only animals we did not see were lions and elephants.
combo	Predators are missing so there are plenty of antelope and cape buffalo.
combo	There are a few elephants but they were shy on our visit.
combo	You can get out of the car at several lake shores to see the hippos and Nile crocodiles although there are warnings on where to stand to be safe.
combo	Portions of the ride required that the windows be up, especially around baboons and areas where there are some (many many) biting flies.
combo	But once onto the open savannah, the windows can be left down.
combo	We travelled in our personal SUV from the south entrance and exited at the north.
combo	It appeared that many tour operations enter at the north, make a loop and exit from the same gate.
combo	If you do the S to N route, you are expected to drive your guide back to Nyonza (it's on the way to Kigali) and pay for his mototaxi ride back to headquarters (5000 Rf, about $8) Obviously a tip is also appropriate.
combo	To conclude, an easy access game safari, reasonably priced."
combo	"We saw elephants, impalas, hippos, zebras, buffaloes, many birds, and BABOONS EVERYWHERE.
combo	The baboons are not scared of the cars or humans.
combo	We were lucky to see the elephants, and it was awesome.
combo	Are guide was great, even though she had a heavy accent.
combo	The view of the lake from the mountains is very nice.
combo	We stayed in the park for two days.
combo	The last part of the road to the park and the road inside the park are dirt, and need to be improved."
combo	"Akegara is the closest thing Rwanda has to a game drive park, and it works well (day trip from Kigali), but some animals are imported (as they no longer can be found there naturally, like giraffes), but a friendly, well-organised and approachable park.
combo	Recommended!"
combo	"This is not your standard African National Park, there are only few animals like zebras giraffes etc.
combo	I frequent here because its near Kigali and the lodge even though in a bad shape is cheap."
combo	"I have visited Akagera National Park twice, and enjoyed both visits.
combo	Although it is rare to see the elephants, lions or leopards, there is enough other wildlife to keep you entertained.
combo	It is an inexpensive alternative to Gorilla trekking while in Rwanda.
combo	The northern savannah portion of the park was just like a scene from the Lion King, including a visit from Pumba!
combo	The Akagera Game Lodge sits on a beautiful hill overlooking Lake Ihema, and serves a fabulous breakfast.
combo	Lodge is in the process of getting some updates, which it needs.
combo	Overall, enjoyed my visits and would visit again."
combo	"This was our first ""safari"".
combo	We got a driver to drive us from Kigali, through the reserve and back.
combo	This cost $200.
combo	You have to pay for a Ranger who will ride with you.
combo	She was very knowledgeable.
combo	If you a travelling in a group make sure you enough room for the Ranger.
combo	There is really no place to stay at or near the Park.
combo	It is a 2 hour drive from Kigali.
combo	There are no lions or elephants in the park.
combo	Otherwise we saw a wide range of game."
combo	Even if you are only going to the Game Lodge!
combo	Reception guards quite intimidating.
combo	"Ok, so it's not like other African game reserves, but so what?
combo	This place is wonderful!
combo	We crossed it from South to North and did not meet any other vehicle.
combo	We left really early - 7 o clock - from the South gate and when we arrived at the Hyppo beach a whole family was grazing.
combo	It was awesome!
combo	When we left all the hyppos had gone back into the lake.
combo	So my advise is get there early!!
combo	We saw lots of animals: impalas, topis, other hyppos crossing our path, giraffes, zebras, buffalos...
combo	It takes now about 7 hours to cross the park, but it's totally worth it.
combo	My advise: get an air-conditioned car because of the horse flies."
combo	"I first reached out to Nelson at Gorilla Trek Africa way back in 2019.
combo	Now that Uganda is open to tourists again, we FINALLY got to make this trip happen.
combo	And it definitely lived up to 3 years of hype!
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa is one of the most professional travel companies I’ve worked with.
combo	Nelson worked with my requests at every turn, and he always responded quickly to any questions.
combo	Our guide, David, was simply wonderful.
combo	He has been doing this a long time, and he is a masterful driver.
combo	We had a packed week, and he got us to each location safely and quickly.
combo	He was always on time, helped us with buying souvenirs, and was a delight to spend every day with.
combo	He (and many others in Uganda) was so welcoming and warm - I can’t imagine a better guide and friend to show us around the country.
combo	The highlight of the trip was the gorilla trekking, but this part of the world has so much to offer!
combo	We spend over a week exploring the country and can’t wait to come back to this region for more.
combo	And when we do, Gorilla Trek Africa will be the first company we reach out to."
combo	"Thank you so much for a journey of a life-time!
combo	It was really something special.
combo	Nelson, who organized the trip was able to customize the perfect itinerary packed with everything we could manage during our stay and within our budget.
combo	We were assigned Elvis as our guide, for our trip and he was perfect!
combo	He was professional, energetic, an excellent driver, had extensive knowledge on a wide variety of subjects and was able to hold conversations on any subject I asked about.
combo	He made us feel safe throughout the entire trip.
combo	That was remarkable considering we drove through half of Uganda in just 2 days.
combo	Also, he was able to accomodate any of our wishes we had without compromising our itinerary.
combo	It was more than we could've imagined.
combo	That's on top of achieving our objective, which was photographing the Chimpanzees and the Gorillas.
combo	We had really exciting encounters.
combo	The lodges we received were amazing and the personnel so hospitable.
combo	Uganda and Rwanda were perhaps the most beautiful countries I've ever seen.
combo	That's out of 26 countries so far.
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I hope to travel with you in the future again!"
combo	"This was such a fantastic experience, from being picked up at the airport to the great hotels and our driver were all exceptional.
combo	The gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking were absolutely the highlight of the trip!
combo	The safari was fantastic and we got to see a ton of animals.
combo	We don’t normally take tours for our trips, but this one was exceptional, and didn’t have that feel.
combo	5/5 stars, highly recommended!!!"
combo	"Absolutely wonderful!
combo	My father and I have been working with Nelson on building this holiday for over six months, and it was worth every second.
combo	We spent 9 wonderful days with Fred (amazing guide) showing us the beauty of The Pearl of Africa.
combo	Fred is very knowledgeable on everything from the history of Rwanda/Uganda to animals to floral and fauna.
combo	Our 9 day adventure included 2 gorilla habituation, Batwa cultural experience, two day safari and a city tour of Kigali, all which went smoothly thanks to our wonderful guide, Fred!
combo	Nelson's replies to our many questions were fast and very informative, he went above and beyond to prepare us for our journey.
combo	This has been a wonderful trip and I would highly recommend this company to anyone."
combo	"Fantastic experience - this is a go-to organization to do your tour with.
combo	You can customize your trip, they are easy to work with and we had a great driver - Asaph.
combo	January was a great time of year.
combo	For those experienced with hiking/trekking - you should still get a porter.
combo	Their help is not just carrying your backpack - they help guide you through the mud/conditions to make the Gorilla and Chimpanzee experience the best.
combo	We have been to Kili and Everest and the porters were amazing.
combo	The luxury options at Volcanoes NP and Akagera were top flight and we recommend them highly."
combo	"We have just been on an 8 day tour of Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.
combo	It was a tailor made trip for my wife and I, which we worked out with Nelson in the office a few months before leaving the UK.
combo	The whole trip was brilliant.
combo	Everything ran smoothly and accordingly to plan.
combo	We couldn't have asked for anything more.
combo	Amongst many other things, we saw gorillas, chimpanzees and tree climbing lions in Uganda, and gorillas in DRC.
combo	We stayed in some lovely accommodation.
combo	Our guide Elvis was fantastic.
combo	If you wish to visit Uganda, Rwanda and/or DRC, we cannot recommend Gorilla Trek Africa highly enough.
combo	Get in touch with Nelson in the office and he'll work with you to arrange your dream trip!"
combo	"Nelson was easy to work with.
combo	Our driver, Asaph was prompt, friendly and informative.
combo	Would go again in a minute."
combo	"My husband and I had a great time traveling with Gorilla Trek Africa in September.
combo	Nelson helped us set the itinerary for the week we were there.
combo	He was very responsive and helpful in the planning stages.
combo	Elvis was our guide and he was very knowledgeable and friendly and even helped us order the local Ugandan mashed bananas dish specially made at one of our hotels when we asked about local food and customs.
combo	Gorilla trekking from Mahogany Springs was an amazing once in a lifetime experience to cap off the week.
combo	Overall, we would not hesitate to recommend this company, our guide, or visiting Uganda."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa and our excellent guide Asaph, exceeded our expectations for our Safari.
combo	Lodging was excellent and Asaph's experience and interest in our Safari experiences added greatly to the excellent itinerary.
combo	He took special care to listen to our desires and flexibly adjust, and his knowledge added greatly to our Gorilla Trek Africa Safari experience.
combo	We highly recommend a Safari with just your own personal group and guide."
combo	"We had great staff from start to finish including Gayvis, Pascal and Daniel.
combo	They took ownership of our experience and made sure we had a visit the will live forever in our memories.
combo	Our porter, Gideon guided us safely through tricky terrain.
combo	This is a well oiled machine that ensures a magnificent experience."
combo	"amazing, truly once in a lifetime experience.
combo	very professional and knowledgable tour guide and an incredible trek with the gorillas spending an hour with a family of them within feet of us.
combo	The park rangers were very professional, polite and helpful while ensuring the safety of the guests and Gorillas.
combo	We did the 2 days tour and went to see the Golden `monkeys in Rwanda on day 2, which was well worth it, hiking in the foothills of the volcanoes and getting within feet of the monkeys and visiting a local community.
combo	The tour company took care of all lodging and transfers and meals were included.
combo	Everything went very smoothly.
combo	The only thing I would suggest is that the tour operators are a bit more clear on the exact itinerary.
combo	We weren't aware that we would be going to a national park in Rwanda on day 2 and therefore needed to get covid tests done at our own expense.
combo	to be fair, the process of getting the test was very easy and the tour guide coordinated everything without issue, so it didn't cause any scheduling problems, only the unexpected cost of USD $50 each.
combo	Highly recommended tour group!"
combo	"In September I did my long waited for Uganda trip.
combo	8 days.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was my choice after reading the great reviews.
combo	I am a solo 70's woman traveler and had read another review from a traveler similar to myself who did the trip.
combo	I picked my highlights - the gorilla trek and the tree climbing lions in Ishasha.
combo	Nelson who works out the details added the chimpanzee tracking and game drives in L Mburo NP and Queen Elizabeth NP and a lot more.
combo	I saw so much in the 8 days but never felt rushed.
combo	My dates and itineraries changed 3 to 4 times over 3 years from my first booking due to various issues.
combo	I couldn't believe Nelson was patient to deal with all my changes.
combo	So much appreciated.
combo	This was a dream trip for me and finally it happened.
combo	Seeing the gorilla family of 2 babies, 2 females, 2 silverbacks and a juvenile male was amazing.
combo	My driver/guide Asaph was knowledgeable and made my trip relaxed and fun.
combo	Lodges were fantastic, food delicious at every lodge.
combo	Some lodges: Mihingo, Mahogany Springs, Katara, Crater Safari Lodge.
combo	Uganda is beautiful, green, lush.
combo	Just seeing the country side was an added bonus.
combo	Perfect trip.
combo	No problems.
combo	Thanks so much Nelson and Asaph."
combo	"We recently returned from a 10 day trip in Rwanda and Uganda in October with Gorilla Trek Africa and everything was fantastic!
combo	Nelson worked with us to create the perfect trip to meet our needs and was incredibly patient and responsive to all of our questions and changes.
combo	While we were only in East Africa a relatively short time, the itinerary allowed us to experience the perfect mix of nature and culture, but never feel rushed.
combo	We couldn’t have been luckier to be assigned Luchi as our driver and guide.
combo	He was incredible!
combo	He was very knowledgeable and informative, patient with our many questions, and a pleasure to spend time with.
combo	If we expressed an interest in seeing something, he made it happen.
combo	He has an incredible network and was clearly highly respected everywhere we went.
combo	He did everything he could to tailor the trip to what he learned we liked, including securing us more difficult treks to the gorillas!
combo	He also went out of his way to ensure that our 20th Wedding Anniversary was incredibly memorable including a surprise bottle of wine, special cake, song and celebration from Luchi and the Mihingo Lodge team.
combo	We thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our trip and came away with many unforgettable memories.
combo	We highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone wishing to travel in Rwanda and Uganda and for any gorilla trekking experience.
combo	We encountered several other travelers during our trip who were not getting near the experience we were (their guide was lost, or wasn’t able to identify key items; they were missing opportunities to see things; or they were actually being mislead).
combo	Sometimes they knew it and sometimes they didn’t, and we always considered ourselves lucky to be with Luchi and Gorilla Trek Africa. "
combo	"My family and I used Gorilla Trek Africa to book a 5 day trip to Rwanda.
combo	It was a customized trip for us with specific hotels and itineraries in Kigali, Akagera National Park, and Volcanoes National Park.
combo	So many aspects of their operation were outstanding.
combo	Nelson was amazing as the person I had contact with to organize our trip; he was incredibly responsive, and I even joked at one point that he must sleep with his computer because he always responded to my emails quickly, even in the middle of the night.
combo	We postponed the trip twice because of Covid, and Nelson cordially changed our trip dates both times.
combo	We traded dozens of emails planning the trip that would best suit our interests.
combo	Ivan was our guide and driver.
combo	He was fabulous.
combo	He is very personable, funny and knowledgeable about animals, birds, Rwandan history and Rwandan culture.
combo	We spent days driving around the country with him, and he always had a smile on his face.
combo	The one problem we encountered with the Company is that we were supposed to stay 2 nights at Ruzizi Tented Camp in Akagera National Park.
combo	We had Gorilla Trek Africa book this hotel 4 months in advance for us.
combo	It was not until we showed up there that the lodge said that Gorilla Trek Africa had never confirmed our reservation and that they could only accommodate us for one night.
combo	We were really annoyed.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa booked us at the last second some place else for the second night.
combo	I would definitely use Gorilla Trek Africa again to book a trip to Uganda or Rwanda, but unfortunately next time I will have to make sure all of my hotels, gorilla and golden monkey permits and other items are indeed booked."
combo	"We used Gorilla Trek twice for our gorillas and Golden monkeys trekking in Rwanda, once was in July 2021 and the latest one was in June 2022.
combo	Both times we booked through Nelson who was extremely responsive and always ready to answer any questions, in short we had amazing time and great experience.
combo	Our guide both times was Sam Elliott who was very experienced, always helpful and very accommodating.
combo	We will not hesitate to recommend Gorilla Trek to anyone who is interested in visiting gorillas.
combo	We also used Gorilla Trek to book our safari to Magashi camp in Akagera National Park."
combo	"If you are looking for an amazing gorilla trek experience look no further than Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	They were so organized and flexible, kind and fun.
combo	We managed to get so close to gorillas which will be an experience I will never forget.
combo	The lodge we stayed in was perfect, delicious food, kind people AND they even cleaned our very muddy boots after the trek.
combo	Our guide Sam Elliott was the best, so friendly and accomodating to our group wanting to stop by a store, ATM, the Diane Fossey Museum.
combo	It was a trip of a lifetime and I am so thankful to Nelson and the team at Gorilla Trek Africa for organizing it for us and treating us so well.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"I had an amazing time with gorilla trek africa.
combo	Nelson was very efficient organising the trip...always quick to respond and full of great ideas!
combo	My guide asaph was so knowledgeable about the animals, his country, and his people.
combo	I learned so much from him.
combo	Everything went smoothly from pick up at Entebbe to drop off in Kigali...I got to see gorillas twice (once in Uganda once in Rwanda), chimpanzees, lions, elephants, hippos and many more!
combo	we sampled local fruit along the way.
combo	if you want to chose a gorilla experience my comparison was uganda was a bit steeper to get to them, but less muddy than rwanda....BUT Uganda is half the money and once you are with the gorillas, there is really no difference.
combo	I had the most amazing time.
combo	thank you Nelson and Asaph"
combo	"We originally booked for 2020 but with COVID had to postpone.
combo	Dealing with Nelson was fantasist, he was extremely patient and accommodating and quick to respond to my many emails and questions.
combo	We did a tour to Uganda from Rwanda for the gorilla trek which was amazing!
combo	We took around 2.5 hours to hike to the gorillas which wasn’t too challenging.
combo	Along the way from rwanda we stopped for a night in Lake Bunyonyi which was a great addition to add on!
combo	The lake is beautiful and the hotel we stayed at was amazing over looking the lake and had a nice canoe ride the following morning.
combo	Our guide Gavis was friendly and knowledgeable and the ride from Rwanda to uganda was good.
combo	Would recommend gorilla trek!"
combo	"My wife and I booked with Gorilla Trek with Nelson.
combo	We did see gorillas and chimpanzees which were the main attractions.
combo	We had a great driver named Arafat.
combo	He was outstanding in every way.
combo	He is very professional, knowledgeable, friendly, and he really looked out for us at all times during our tour.
combo	Unfortunately on the last day of the trip we were scheduled to drive about 10 hours from Bwindi to Kampala to end the tour.
combo	During the drive the vehicle we were in broke down and had to be repaired.
combo	We stood on the side of the road and waited for a couple of car mechanics to come and repair the vehicle.
combo	We were there for 3 1/2 hours while waiting for and then watching mechanics work on the vehicle.
combo	They repaired the problem enough to get to their workshop in a somewhat nearby town.
combo	They worked on the vehicle another 1/2 hour there.
combo	We continued the trip but not long after that the vehicle broke down again with a totally different issue.
combo	This time it left us standing around watching mechanics come and go, work on the vehicle, had the wrong part, leave, come back, etc.
combo	After 2 hours we were sent another vehicle to finish the trip to Kampala.
combo	The driver for that vehicle was named Elvis and he was very good.
combo	Since we lost 6 hours total due to the two breakdowns we were running late and missed dinner though we did stop at a small convenience store for some packaged snacks.
combo	Finally arrived at our destination and checked in at midnight.
combo	We are both seasoned travelers and adapt well to unexpected changes in plans.
combo	However I did ask Nelson if he would like give some compensation due to the inconveniences during that day.
combo	We asked for what we thought was very reasonable.
combo	We had no transportation so we asked Nelson if he would provide a ride to and from dinner for us the day after we arrived in Kampala.
combo	We paid for our own dinner.
combo	We also asked for a ride to the airport the following day.
combo	He agreed to both.
combo	We were given the ride to and from dinner as agreed.
combo	However, the next day we waited for our most important ride which was to the airport to leave the country.
combo	Our driver did not show up at the pickup time.
combo	I tried to contact him but he was unreachable.
combo	I also tried to contact Nelson who I also could not reach.
combo	After texting and calling for the driver and Nelson for one hour we booked our own transportation to the airport.
combo	I heard from Nelson a couple of hours later just before out flight was to leave.
combo	He said our driver was in a car accident before he was able to pick us up and was injured and unable to contact us.
combo	Nelson said that he had his phone turned off when we tried to contact him.
combo	To wrap this up I asked Nelson if he would like to make good on the missed ride to the airport and cover the roughly $40 we spent on our taxi.
combo	He said that he would not do that.
combo	He told me I was being ""inhuman and ridiculous"".
combo	This ended on a very sour note with this unpleasant exchange with Nelson.
combo	I expected better customer service from him and Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"We had an amazing experience with GTA.
combo	We started planning our trip in 2019 and had to postpone several times due to COVID.
combo	Nelson was the architect of our trip, offering amazing suggestions, tailoring the trip exactly to our needs, and making sure that the lodges.
combo	He responded promptly and made sure we felt supported even when our plans changed.
combo	each of the lodges he recommended were escellent.
combo	We ended up doing gorilla trekking in Uganda and golden monkey trekking in Rwanda.
combo	We finally got to go on the trip this August and it exceeded our expectations in every way.
combo	Krish was a fantastic guide.
combo	He navigated the muddy, treacherous and bumpy terrain with ease even when there were torrential downpours, was super prompt, and incredibly friendly.
combo	We learned so much from him about Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Gorilla trekking was one of the most amazing, unforgettable trips of our lives and we are so grateful to GTA for helping us have this experience!"
combo	"Just back from an incredible trip to Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson was super helpful with the booking process which was seamless.
combo	We were collected by our driver and guide Arafat for a five day tour.
combo	Arafat was an excellent guide, very helpful, kind and full of knowledge.
combo	I would highly recommend requesting Arafat, his knowledge on the wildlife was impeccable.
combo	We saw many animals on our tour, tree climbing lions, hippos, elephants and many more.
combo	The gorilla trek was incredible, beyond words.
combo	Arafat worked hard to get us a gorilla family that had many members including babies.
combo	I wouldn’t hesitate to book again with Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	This is the second time I have used Gorilla Trek Africa and they did not disappoint.
combo	I wanted to return to see the mountain gorillas and bring a group of 20 close friends.
combo	Nelson was amazing and set everything up for me and is always very responsive to emails.
combo	Nelson set up our stay at the Five Volcanoes hotels - which was amazing.
combo	I can’t say enough good things….. highly recommend.
combo	"Gorilla trekking had been a dream prior to COVID.
combo	We finally made the trip happen in 2022 and so grateful we chose Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	First off, Nelson was very responsive and easy to communicate with when looking for different options for experience.
combo	He made it very easy to understand and before le we knew it, we made our deposit!
combo	Once we arrived in Kigali, our tour guide NORMAN came to say hi the day before our tour actually started.
combo	Since this was my first time in Africa, meeting him the night before made me feel so much more comfortable about what to expect.
combo	We asked him tons of questions and he graciously answered all of them.
combo	Norman has a kind heart, he is enthusiastic and he is what made our tour memorable!!
combo	He is fun, knowledgeable, and professional.
combo	If you choose Gorilla Trek Africa (which you should), you should definitely request to have Norman as your guide.
combo	You won’t regret it :)"
combo	"I can't say enough about this once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Firstly Nelson was so patient and helpful.
combo	Very responsive and always ready to answer my questions.
combo	On the actual day, my guide was Gavis.
combo	Punctual and do professional.
combo	Made sure I got into a good group for the actual trek.
combo	Even brought some cookies which helped when I needed a burst of sugar during the grueling hike.
combo	Highly recommend."
combo	"My husband and I had the best time in Rwanda for part of our honeymoon- we can’t recommend Gorilla Trek Africa enough!
combo	Nelson was very responsive to book, confirm, and setup permits for the park, and Peter was the BEST tour operator who helped us along the way.
combo	We trekked for an hour or so until we reached the gorillas.
combo	Truly a trek of a lifetime, a magical experience!!"
combo	"Excellent guide, great hotels, spectacular food and lovely people.
combo	The gorilla Trek was amazing.
combo	We were very close and got some great photos.
combo	We also did the golden Monkeys trek.
combo	They were adorable.
combo	We went on to Akagera Game park in the south.
combo	That was an excellent experience.
combo	Special shout-out to the excellent guide that Gorilla Trek Africa provided.
combo	His knowledge and kindness were extraordinary.
combo	His presence was an important part of our enjoyment of this tour."
combo	"We could not have had a better experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Working with Nelson was a breeze.
combo	Even though our trip was postponed twice due to the Pandemic, Nelson was very accommodating and patient with us.
combo	William, our guide, was amazing.
combo	He was kind, had a great sense of humor and extremely knowledgeable about Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The gorilla trekking was amazing and they came very close to us.
combo	Two treks were perfect.
combo	One in Rwanda and one in Uganda.
combo	On the 4 game drives we did, we saw lions, leopards, hippos, huge elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, cobs, bush bucks, lions sleeping in trees, many different species of birds and other small game.
combo	We really enjoyed the boat Safari on the Kazinga Chanel.
combo	We saw so many animals drinking water, cooling off and sunning themselves.
combo	William knew exactly where to go and could expertly spot the animals.
combo	He knew when to wait and when to move on.
combo	He made everyday so much fun.
combo	He was an excellent driver and dodged many craters in the roads, bicycles, cows, goats and people walking alongside the road.
combo	He knew fabulous local places to stop for souvenirs and local products.
combo	You must ask for William Luchi.
combo	It seemed like we were family by the end of the trip.
combo	The lodges were nice with delicious food.
combo	We had different selections of vegan, local and cosmopolitan food choices.
combo	The staff would light the fireplaces in your room and bring you hot water bottles for the bed.
combo	Your boots and gaiters were also cleaned but the lodges.
combo	The entire trip was amazing and a once in a lifetime opportunity.
combo	You cannot go wrong booking with Gorilla Trek Africa and William Luchi!"
combo	"Nelson was excellent through email at discussing options and organising the tour.
combo	We were collected from Kigali and drove to Bwindi, Uganda by Arafat who was a wonderful, friendly, helpful guide.
combo	We had 1 day at Queen Elizabeth park and 1 day on a gorilla trek in Bwindi.
combo	All went as planned and was a wonderful trip.
combo	When I contacted the hotel independently, they gave a quote for the exact same trip and was a few thousand dollars more expensive, so not only is the company excellent to deal with, they offer great value for money."
combo	"Our Rwanda experience was made possible by Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	Nelson, manager, was always so helpful and punctual about responding to our questions and requests.
combo	This is even while being 7 time zones away!
combo	We simply inquired about a trip, layed out what we would like to do, and Nelson took care of it from there(we did book flights separately)!
combo	Once we arrived in Rwanda, we were meet at our hotel, Five to Five, by our guide, Elvis.
combo	He reviewed our trip with us and made some suggestions about local things to see in Kigali.
combo	The next day we toured the city with Elvis.
combo	He was a wealth of knowledge on all things Rwanda.
combo	We asked many questions, and Elvis had the answer to everything!
combo	We then spent the night at DaVinci Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The staff there were exceptional.
combo	They made us feel at home and welcomed from the moment we stepped out of the car.
combo	The next day, we took our trek with the gorillas.
combo	The experience can barely be put into words.
combo	The rangers, guide, and porters were all top notch (make sure to get a porter!
combo	$10 is money well spent and I can almost guarantee that you will feel like it was a bargain by the end!).
combo	Elvis then recommended a village walk where we were able to see the culture of the Rwandans' in the Northern part of the country.
combo	The next few days were spent in Akagera National Park.
combo	We took a boat tour on Lake Ihema, to see birds, and also 3 game drives(two smaller- 3 hours, and one larger- 10 hours).
combo	All the experiences in Akagera were made even better by Elvis.
combo	He has an encyclopedic knowledge of wildlife.
combo	We saw over 60 animals and birds and he knew every single one and also had information about them that was up to date and relevant.
combo	When we ended our trip, Elvis made sure that we got to the airport with plenty enough time to check in and be at our gate!
combo	If you are looking to experience Africa, look no further than Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Their guides make all the difference (opposed to just drivers, which many other companies give you) !
combo	We would not have had nearly the trip that we did if we did not have Elvis and everything that he brought to the table!
combo	Life-changning experience!"
combo	"Amazing 4 day tour through the Volcanoes National Park with pickup and dropoff in Kigali.
combo	Norman was absolutely excellent, and went above and beyond to make sure everything was going well for me.
combo	Don’t hesistate to book your trip through Gorilla Trek Africa, they won’t disappoint, especially if you’ve got Norman as your guide!"
combo	"Excellent 5 days in Uganda, both the Monkey and Gorilla Trekking was well organized and worth every minute Nelson at Gorilla Trek was outstanding and designed the perfect adventure around our 5 day timeframe.
combo	Accommodations were great, we started in Entebbe, the Two Friends Hotel was super, the staff so friendly and the Fish Dinner 2nd to none.
combo	The stay for two night's at the Turraco Tree Top was special, with a deck off the room that looks out to the jungle.
combo	Overall a trip not to be missed."
combo	"My husband and I and another couple (old friends) have just returned from 10 days in Rwanda.
combo	We combined a stay at Magashi Safari camp with a visit to the gorillas.
combo	We made our reservations direct with Gorilla Trek and received excellent service from their manager Nelson.
combo	The trip was fantastic, all the arrangements were meticulous and the whole trip ran like clockwork.
combo	Nelson, who is based in Kampala, was incredibly responsive, nothing too much trouble.
combo	We were accompanied by our guide Sam Elliott who was just fabulous.
combo	Sam was a mine of all kinds of information, great company and he couldn’t do enough for us.
combo	All in all a really fabulous trip made even better by the efforts of Nelson and Sam.
combo	All the accommodation was top notch: Serena Hotel Kigali, Magashi Camp, Virunga Lodge.
combo	Oh and the gorillas were just amazing!
combo	The guide, rangers and porters were so good.
combo	Please use a porter, the money you give them ($10 or more if you need a lot of help) really helps the community and encourages conservation.
combo	Highly recommended, Gorilla Trek Africa provided 5 Star service.
combo	We’ll definitely travel with them again."
combo	"It is really something to do in your life, the gorillas accept you in their living room, continuing to do their life while you look at them.
combo	Incredible!
combo	Otherwise the trip was perfectly organized by Gorilla Trek Africa Ltd.
combo	I have been taken by a driver at my hotel in Kigali and he organized everything until I went back to my hotel the following day.
combo	Great job.
combo	Thanks to the full team"
combo	"Fantastic experience.. internet problems stopped us paying for or permit in advance but it was easily sorted on arrival at Virunga national park.
combo	As an older couple our ranger advised we join the “ easy” walk group and provided hiking poles and we also opted for the help of a porter which was useful when navigating muddy paths on our (only ) 1hr walk uphill through wet agricultural paddocks to the gorillas.
combo	Gum boots or hiking boots recommended!
combo	We were very lucky as our ranger guides found the gorilla family so quickly and they were on the edge of the forest in thinly wooded open ground so we had a really great unforgettable close encounter for an hour or so before we followed them as they returned to dense forest.
combo	Take some spare RWF to pay/tip the porter 5- 10k and the rangers .. money well spent.
combo	Thanks to our guide that day, Kali, for a truly memorable gorilla trek."
combo	"Nelson and his staff at Gorilla Trek Africa were professional and delivered on all counts!
combo	His choice of lodging was fabulous.
combo	A guest house in Entebbe on the shores of Lake Victoria gave me a chance to book a 1/2 day bike ride around a part of the Lake, great lodges in Bwindi NP & Volcanoes NP at reasonable prices with fabulous food (fresh fish caught the night before in local lakes).
combo	My drivers and guides were gracious, professional, and spoke English.
combo	Very helpful when spending hours on the road together.
combo	They also stopped on the side of the road when I wanted to stop and take a photo.
combo	Nelson also suggested ending in Lake Kivu.
combo	It wasn't on my original list but his recommendation was perfect.
combo	I did a 1/2 boat tour the day before boarding my return flight to US.
combo	On the boat I saw people in long boats taking produce to market from Congo to Uganda.
combo	That's the kind of insight and ideas I appreciate and want from my tour consultant as a traveler.
combo	And the money shot!
combo	My goal was to see and photograph mountain back gorillas in Bwindi & Volcanoes NP.
combo	Nelson put my trip together.
combo	In Bwindi, I photographed a mountain gorilla mother, her content face enjoying the sunlight, while breast feeding her baby.
combo	I submitted the picture to Travel and Leisure.
combo	It was picked picture of the week in shown online!"
combo	"Myself and my husband have just returned from our incredible 10 day trip to Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa and we are still smiling from ear to ear!
combo	We had booked it two years ago but because of covid had to reschedule it numerous times.
combo	Nelson was punctual, helpful and very understanding , always keeping us updated and answering all our questions along the way while being as flexible as he could with ever changing plans.
combo	Communication was very good throughout.
combo	When we finally could go, we had since got married so decided to upgrade the accommodation and make it our honeymoon- and it certainly did not disappoint!
combo	Upon arrival we met Gavis, our amazing guide, who was to become a driver, wildlife expert, local interpreter king of football, fun and a new friend- we could not be happier that we had him with us for the trip.
combo	He ensured our safety, comfort and enjoyment, always going the extra mile to make sure we got to see and do everything we wanted as well as looking out for me when I was unwell.
combo	Rwanda is a truly remarkable country, boundless green lush landscape and varied wildlife that rivals the more frequented tourist destinations nearby.
combo	I don't like the phrase 'the people are' because you can't define a whole country in that way but the individuals we met along the way were friendly and full of knowledge-.
combo	The country generally feels safe and welcoming.
combo	Obviously there are ways of touring a country much cheaper, but if you're looking for a bespoke hold you by the hand tour of Rwanda, we would highly recommend Gorilla trek Africa and certainly Gavis.
combo	Accommodation highlights: Comoron Lodge on Lake Kivu is stunning Ruzizi Tented Lodge- setting, food and staff made this a real highlight- listening to Hippos eat outside the lodge at night is incredible.
combo	Activity highlights: Nothing beats seeing Gorillas - such a privileged experience.
combo	Nothing like it ever.
combo	Tracking chimps - the crescendo of noise can't be replicated Genocide Museum- Very powerful and well done Akagera park- beautiful and certainly less busy than some national parks friends have told me about.
combo	We were incredibly lucky to see everything we did."
combo	"It truly is an amazing experience to be so close to the gorillas.
combo	Sturdy hiking boots and one hiking pole were helpful.
combo	Also we got rented gators from the lodge.
combo	We did the the gorilla trek and the next day the golden monkey trek in Volcanoes National Park as part of our 10 day guided tour with Overseas Adventure Travel on its Rwanda: Mountain Gorillas in the Land of a Thousand Hills.
combo	took care of all the rocky road driving, game lodge reservations and logistics including the necessary COVID testing.
combo	I often do my own travel planning and driving, but I believe a guided tour is much better for Rwanda.
combo	In addition to the gorillas and golden monkeys, there is another beautiful national park in the east, Akagera, where we saw the Big Five.
combo	Rwanda has a tragic, but ultimately uplifting history and a guided tour like OAT helps you to meet people who lived through the genocide and understand how this nation has survived and thrived."
combo	"Just cane back from a 3 days gorillas and golden monkeys trek with them.
combo	Everything was perfect and beyond my expectations.
combo	My guide Peter was on time, professional, helpful and attentive and everything went smoothly even in this time of pandemic.
combo	As for the gorilla trek itself, it was exceptional.
combo	Gorillas don’t follow a schedule and my group had to change gorilla family on the spot because the initial group was on the move to fast for us to catch up, but the guides were quick to make the decision and we made our way to another group and we were able to enjoy our hour with those beautiful great apes.
combo	So would I do it again?
combo	For sure!
combo	With this tour provider?
combo	For sure also!
combo	Thanks to Nelson and his team."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa delivered a seamless and totally personalized experience for my Rwanda trip from initial planning through the end of my trip.
combo	Nelson was very helpful and responsive over email as I figured out what itinerary made the most sense for me.
combo	My personal guide and driver, Joana, was absolutely lovely and very knowledgeable.
combo	I can't stand tour group travel and this was definitely not that -- it was bespoke, individualized travel on my terms, with all the annoying details taken care of but all the freedom left intact.
combo	I did a four day tour including a gorilla trek, hike to Dian Fossey's (and Digit's) gravesite, and a golden monkey hike.
combo	Though all the hikes in Volcanoes National Park are led by park rangers, it's pretty much essential to go with a guide service such as Gorilla Trek Africa, which provides your daily transportation, organizes all the permits, and is basically the liaison between you and the Park.
combo	Here's how my itinerary went: Day 1: Picked up in the morning from my hotel in Kigali by my personal guide for the duration of the trip, Joana, in a comfortable four-wheel drive vehicle.
combo	Joana took me for a Kigali city tour based entirely on what I wanted to do.
combo	We then headed off on a gorgeous drive up to the mountains.
combo	Joana's excellent driving ensured I didn't get motion sickness--which I'm prone to--and she was happy to stop at any point for me to take pictures.
combo	We stopped for lunch (included) at Migano Cafe, a delightful restaurant near the Karisoke Research Center museum in the small town of Misanze.
combo	Then I took my time in the museum, which I thought was a treasure.
combo	From there Joana delivered me to my lodging, where I had the rest of my meals during the trip.
combo	Day 2: Joana picked me up and drove me over to the park headquarters where all the trekkers (whether for gorillas, monkeys, or other hikes) gather every morning to meet up with the park rangers.
combo	Joana processed me through the entrance with my permits and paperwork (all arranged by Gorilla Trek Africa) and then she and the other guides consulted with the rangers to divide up the trekking groups while the other trekkers and I enjoyed amazing coffee and socialized in the gazebos.
combo	Some lodges provide hikers with ankle gaiters for the mud but mine did not, so Joana hooked me up with someone who rents them by the day for a small fee.
combo	$5 a day, which includes bringing them to you, putting them on your feet, and then getting them back from you dirty at the end of the day and bringing you a fresh dry pair the next morning).
combo	Soon I was paired with three other trekkers of like ability and we were off to see the gorilla family we were assigned.
combo	That was an amazing experience, but it's the same regardless of which guide service you go with so I'll leave it at that.
combo	The way the process works is that once you get assigned to a group at the park HQs, you all get back in the cars with your guides and drive over to a designated starting point, which differs based on which gorilla family you're going to see.
combo	The ranger who leads your group will hop in one of the cars with you and lead the caravan to wherever the starting point is.
combo	At that point you'll meet up with porters who can be hired to carry your pack and help you in the slippery spots (note: pretty much everyone hires a porter, whether they need one or not.
combo	It's $10 plus tip).
combo	Then your guide stays with your car (and anything you choose to leave behind in it) for the duration of your trek.
combo	Once the trek is done, you don't go back to the park HQs but instead go straight to your lodge, or wherever else you have your guide take you.
combo	After the trek, at my request we stopped at a crafts center with multiple stalls where I enjoyed picking up some souvenirs.
combo	Zero pressure from Joana--this was definitely not one of those situations where the tour guide gets a cut.
combo	Then Joana drove me back to the lodge where I had a late lunch and relaxed until dinner.
combo	Day 3: Basically the same as day 2, but I did the Dian Fossey gravesite hike, which I would strongly recommend if you're in decent hiking shape and are at all interested in seeing where Dian Fossey lived and studied.
combo	As you may recall if you watched Gorillas in the Mist, Dian Fossey was buried next to Digit, a silverback she was very close to who was killed by poachers.
combo	Digit is still right there next to her and some 20 or so other gorillas are buried in the graveyard as well--each with names and years of birth and death.
combo	Getting a sense for the terrain in which Dian Fossey worked is really cool--she was one tough lady!
combo	After the hike Joana took me to a cultural center that depicts pre-colonial life in Rwanda and employs rehabilitated former poachers.
combo	It wasn't the highlight of my trip but was worth a stop.
combo	Back to the lodge after that, where Joana arranged for a physician to come to me to administer the COVID-19 PCR test I needed for my return travel.
combo	Day 4: Same process --early wake-up to meet the rangers and other trekkers over at the Park HQs, get gaiters from the rental guy, drink amazing coffee, get assigned to a group.
combo	I did the golden monkeys hike, which was a very short hike followed by about an hour of marveling at the monkeys.
combo	Joana drove me to the starting point and stayed with the car, same as the other days.
combo	Afterward I went back to the lodge and got cleaned up and ate lunch before checking out and heading back to Kigali.
combo	On the ~2.5hr drive back there were more scenic photo ops.
combo	Joana delivered me to my hotel in Kigali and made sure I had all my COVID-19 test documentation before we parted ways.
combo	She was great.
combo	I had an entirely positive experience with Gorilla Trek Africa and would highly recommend them.
combo	Thanks Joana and Nelson!"
combo	"What an amazing adventure African Gorilla Trek provided!
combo	I traveled with my friend, both of us being two middle-age women, for a 14-day trip around Uganda.
combo	The main focus for our trip to Uganda was experience the mountain gorillas, but it ended up being so much more.
combo	To say that it was a trip of a lifetime is an understatement.
combo	There are many companies to choose from when traveling to Uganda, but now having experienced the trip and being able to witnessed many tour companies along the way the reasons I would highly recommend Africa Gorilla Trek is their communication, organization and passion.
combo	The communication was amazing.
combo	William is the United States representative while Nelson is the coordinator in Uganda.
combo	Both encouraged us to contact them with any and all questions and concerns, which we did.
combo	Before the trip we wrote (and called) numerous, numerous times with many questions and every single time our emails and calls were returned quickly with thorough answers to all our questions.
combo	Nelson is wonderful, but it was nice to have William as the United Representative to be able to call and talk with.
combo	After traveling to Uganda, I am more aware of the level of organization needed for this type of trip.
combo	Not only were there the lodge accommodations but also permits needed for every game park, as well as the gorilla and chimpanzee permits and many small details I would not have even thought of.
combo	Africa Gorilla Trek took of every detail seamlessly.
combo	Even when our airline changed our return tickets to a later day at the last minute, (do NOT use Turkish Airlines!!
combo	), Nelson quickly was able to get us accommodations and a park permit for an extra day.
combo	In my opinion, the main reason that our trip was such a success and the reason I am highly recommending UGT is because of Elvis, our guide.
combo	He was professional, fun and easy to be with and had an amazing ability to find wildlife.
combo	You will find many companies will provide a driver that will drive you from place to place, while Elvis was a genuine tour guide with an amazing amount of knowledge.
combo	We learned about Ugandan history, politics, social issues, the communities as well as the extensive knowledge he has and shares about all the animals, birds and fauna that you encounter on your trip.
combo	I also want to make a point that Elvis is an amazingly skilled driver.
combo	Our trip involved many long drives that included congested (crazy) urban streets as well as treacherous mountain roads.
combo	Not once was I nervous or worried, he handled each environment skillfully.
combo	I look through my pictures of the trip almost every day.
combo	We were able to have an amazing gorilla trek, seeing the Silver Back as well as several baby and juvenile gorillas.
combo	We saw 7 leopards, including one eating his kill in a tree.
combo	We saw elephant playing, giraffes running, hippos sparring, monkeys stealing bananas, Chimpanzees, Rhinos.
combo	When I think of the trip, I feel happy.
combo	My recommendations: Besides my main suggestion to definitely book with Uganda Gorilla Trek, I would also suggest booking the gorilla trek for two days.
combo	It is expensive, but I do not regret the extra expense as each day was magical.
combo	You are traveling all the way to Uganda to experience the gorillas, spend the extra money to have two days.
combo	The other thing I would recommend is to book the mid-range accommodations.
combo	We booked the deluxe accommodations as we considered this trip to be our big splurge and once in a lifetime experience, but truthfully, we often arrived at the lodges after dark and left before it got light.
combo	We were so tired that we did not appreciate the luxurious (and they were luxurious) accommodations.
combo	We often were so tired we just wanted a working shower and a clean bed to fall into.
combo	To do it again, I would save the money and use it to book a weekend at a Scottsdale resort for a luxury experience."
combo	"My husband and i had an absolutely epic time exploring Rwanda (5-day itinerary) our guide Eric.
combo	Right from the getgo, Gorilla Trek Africa was extremely professional.
combo	Nelson was prompt, efficient and polite in his responses.
combo	What really impressed me was how patient and flexible he was in putting together an itinerary that worked for us.
combo	They took care of all the small details, and despite doing this during a pandemic, we always felt safe.
combo	Eric was just great -- he knew when to let go and chill but also when to step it up and put gentle pressure to make sure we were keeping to times and deadlines.
combo	He was extremely knowledgeable on so many topics ranging from wildlife, birds (he really is an expert here!
combo	and history.
combo	We learned a lot from Eric, and truly enjoyed his company.
combo	Oh and of course - the apes/monkeys.
combo	We saw chimps in nyungwe up close and gorillas and golden monkeys in volcanoes.
combo	truly WOW.
combo	i am still in disbelief at how close we were to the gorillas and what we observed (mother and child hugging, mother transporting baby on back, mating ritual, little babies playing, silverback being the dominant force that he is.. etc).
combo	if you are going to rwanda, i cannot recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and Eric more."
combo	"We enjoyed the full itinerary set for our trip and our guide, Krish.
combo	We especially enjoyed Murchinson Falls, Kibale National Park for Chimp tracking, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for the difficult Gorilla Tracking.
combo	When Krish found out we loved pineapple he actually bought us a couple of them and had the hotel staff at Pakuba Lodge prepare the pineapple for us where we ate it poolside.
combo	We enjoyed all the lodges that we stayed in during our trip.
combo	The entire trip was a great was a great experience!"
combo	"In March 2001, my wife and I researched tour companies to hire for a trip to Uganda.
combo	There were a ton of companies and we spent substantial time researching them.
combo	We noticed that Gorilla Trek Africa was rated number one on Tripadvisor and continued to come up in Google searches for best tour companies.
combo	We contacted Gorilla Trek Africa's U.S. representative, spoke to him, and decided to hire Gorilla Trek Africa as our tour company.
combo	Nelson became our contact and he was super helpful and responsive.
combo	With Nelson's help, a travel agent was unnecessary.
combo	Nelson assisted us with designing a personal, custom tour that best fit our needs.
combo	We had many questions in the beginning and he promptly responded to all of them.
combo	We booked our trip for July 13 through July 26.
combo	In June, due to an increase in COVID cases, Uganda's president locked down the country and enacted various restrictions, including a curfew.
combo	We were concerned at first, but after conducting additional research, talking to Nelson, and learning that there were exemptions for tourists, we decided not to postpone our travels.
combo	And, it was the right decision.
combo	We had an absolute blast!
combo	We couldn't have been happier with our choice to travel to Uganda and our decision to hire Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	After two days of exploring Entebbe on our own, Asaph, our tour guide, picked us up at our hotel in a Land Cruiser and our tour began.
combo	Asaph was amazing!
combo	He was knowledgeable and attentive.
combo	He was kind and patient with us but had a self-assured presence that made us feel safe and secure.
combo	Too, he took excellent care of us.
combo	My wife and I have traveled extensively and could have navigated Uganda on our own, but it would have been so much more stressful and less enjoyable without Gorilla Trek Africa backing us and Asaph guiding us.
combo	During our tour, we went on game drives, boat tours, community tours, a chimpanzee trek, and a gorilla trek.
combo	The accommodations rocked and the staff was friendly.
combo	It was extraordinary!
combo	My wife and I were so happy with Gorilla Trek Africa as our tour company and Asaph as our guide that we are each writing a separate positive review.
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa as a tour company and Asaph as a tour guide.
combo	Scott"
combo	"We could not have been more pleased with our experience with GTA.
combo	From start to finish, we were perfectly taken care every step of the way.
combo	Our driver Goodwin was an incredible guide from Kigali over to the National Park, making thoughtful stops along the way (like the Uganda Genocide Museum).
combo	He was such a pleasure to spend time with as we made our way to the National Park.
combo	We decided to stay at Five Volcanoes Hotel, which was incredible as well.
combo	The property was beautiful, the meals delicious, and just a stone's throw from the park.
combo	Once on the trek, our guide Fidel and his expert team of trackers made it possible for us to see a massive family of gorillas in their natural habitat (taking care to protect them in every way).
combo	This was such a special experience that we would recommend to anyone.
combo	We went on our honeymoon, and loved every second if it.
combo	PS - Especially recommend gaiters, thick pants, a jacket, and thick gloves for this trek -- the thorns in the jungle are no joke!)"
combo	"If you’re looking for a great Rwandan trekking and safari experience, and you need a tour company to organize it for you, look no further!
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa gave us a wonderful Rwandan experience.
combo	It was extremely easy to book, and our contact person, Nelson, built our tour around what we wanted to see.
combo	We went from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking, to Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park for chimp tracking and the canopy walk, back to Kigali for a night, then on to Akagera National Park for safari, and back to Kigali.
combo	All of the accommodations they arranged were perfect and we were treated like special guests everywhere stayed.
combo	Our guide/driver, Gavis, was amazing!
combo	Extremely friendly and personable, he made our trip very special.
combo	It felt as if we were being taken around the country by a good friend.
combo	When we visited in July 2021, Rwanda required COVID PCR testing every few days to be cleared to enter the national parks.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa arranged for all of our tests, and Gavis went out of his way to ensure we had our results in time for the next park.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa made our trip feel effortless, and we never felt like we were on a big package tour, which was important to us since we’re usually independent travelers.
combo	Highly, highly recommended!"
combo	"It was very fantastic and wonderful experience, we were very happy looking at the gorillas in their habitat Gorilla Trek Africa is good.
combo	The hotels offered by the tour were very good and mostly their Food was very good.
combo	And for sure thank so much our guide William, is so polite, caring and loving man my family appreciated"
combo	"Being in the presence of the mountain gorillas was an incomparable privilege, achieved through the superb planning by Nelson of Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our guide Sam for the three days we were in Rwanda was informative, gentle, well spoken, unpretentious and a truly outstanding person.
combo	Sam taught us how much Rwanda has to offer and we shall have to return to experience this magnificent country fully."
combo	"It was a unique experience, the environment is spectacular, the trekking can be somehow hard depending on the location of the family that you visit but it was definitely worth it for me.
combo	Being able to see these families so close in their natural habitat fascinated me.
combo	Highly recommended"
combo	"We just returned from a 5 day tour of Uganda including the Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
combo	It was absolutely amazing!
combo	We rescheduled our trip from July 2020 to Dec 2020 because of COVID.
combo	Throughout this preplanning process, I corresponded with Nelson (who is based out of Uganda).
combo	He was very responsive and patient with my questions and slew of emails.
combo	Nelson paired us with Asaph (our driver and guide) and we could not have been happier.
combo	There is a lot of driving involved in the tour, and Asaph really enhanced these moments by spotting a TON of animals and sharing his knowledge of the country and areas.
combo	We genuinely consider him our friend now!
combo	He also helped us obtain the COVID tests which are a requirement to leave the country.
combo	As for the trip itself, it was everything we could have hoped for.
combo	We tracked Chimpanzees, took a boat cruise, conducted a game drive, tracked the Silverback Gorillas, and explored one of the neighboring communities.
combo	The hotels were each unique and spectacular in their own way, and took care of all of our meals.
combo	Throughout the entire trip, we felt safe and well provided for.
combo	Uganda has taken extraordinary steps in their COVID measures - and we were constantly sanitizing and getting temp checks at all major attractions and park entrances.
combo	Nearly everything in Uganda is cash-only, so don't anticipate being able to use a credit card.
combo	There is limited access to ATMs once you leave the major city centers, so get your money situation squared away early.
combo	Many of the activities were very personalized so you should be ready to appreciate the guides and staff with a tip.
combo	For example, each Gorilla Trek involves 7-8 staff members and you will be happy to be able to tip each for their role in this adventure.
combo	It goes without saying to remember your driver in your tip planning as well.
combo	I would absolutely recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone (and to ask for Asaph if he is available!).
combo	They took care of everything end-to-end on this trip and really helped us have a spectacular and memorable experience."
combo	From the first contact Nelson who is based in Uganda provided helpful advice and clear information about costs as we put together a week of primate trekking in Rwanda.
combo	Our driver guide Godwin took great care of the family and managed to get us back onto schedule after we had cleared Covid requirements so we did not miss anything.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa proved to be a reliable choice at a difficult time.
combo	Rwanda is not the cheap option but it is a safe country taking sensible Covid precautions and the National Parks are running very professionally guarding the health of the apes.
combo	"We came to Rwanda to see the gorillas but aren't typically fond of tours/tour groups and like exploring on our own.
combo	Plus, let's be honest, there's a serious sticker shock factor for any Rwandan gorilla tour.
combo	Gorilla Trek Rwanda was the most responsive and most willing to give us what we needed without bells and whistles we didn't.
combo	As an aside, we were very leery about whether to travel during COVID and felt quite guilty leaving the States for a vacation.
combo	However, Rwanda impressed us so much with all of the precautions that are being taken universally, and Gorilla Trek Rwanda echos all of those precautions with their drivers, guides, etc.
combo	We felt perfectly safe.
combo	From the moment we were picked up at our hotel, we were assured to be in good hands.
combo	Our guide walked through the Kigali market with us, a feat that I would not have liked to undertake on our own being so obviously foreigners.
combo	Also included in our package was a stop at the Genocide Museum, which was a must do while in Kigali.
combo	That was a very well put together self-led tour.
combo	We were given as much time as we wanted.
combo	My favorite part was the drive to our hotel.
combo	Getting out of the city and seeing the Rwandan countryside and villages along the way was fantastic.
combo	We opted to stay at the mid-range accommodation, the DaVinci Lodge.
combo	Staff was over the top friendly.
combo	Food good, more that sufficient.
combo	Room was basic but just fine for one night.
combo	The hot water bottles they put in bed made the sleep in an otherwise quite cold room just fine.
combo	You get what you pay for.
combo	We were fine not paying for top of the line accommodations and were satisfied.
combo	Of course gorilla trekking was incredible.
combo	We were left in such expert and capable hands at Volcanoes National Park for that experience.
combo	Would absolutely recommend Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"It was an amazing experience, just looking at the gorillas in their habitat was incredible and magical.
combo	The hotels offered by the tour were good but the 5 volcanoes was great specially because of their service and food; and there are not enough words to thank our guide Sam Elliot, always kind, willing to help and smiley.
combo	Highly recommend"
combo	"Took a three day tour to Volcanoes National park to see the Gorillas and the Golden Monkeys.
combo	We hiked 45min to find the group and it was unbelievable being in and around their group.
combo	My guide Joan was super nice and provided a great local view into Rwandan culture.
combo	She had answers to all my questions and was super accommodating for road-side stops to get local food and take pictures.
combo	At the end of the tour, my flight was early in the am so instead of waiting at the airport for hours, she dropped me at a nice coffee shop and then came back and took me to the airport.
combo	That was much appreciated especially because you cannot get into the airport until check-in opens.
combo	I stayed at the 5 Volcanoes hotel and it was quite nice.
combo	The room was huge with a patio, a large bathroom and a comfy bed.
combo	Compliments to the chef as all the meals were wonderful.
combo	The only negative part of the experience was that the passenger window of the Land Cruiser did not go up and down easily and sometimes not at all.
combo	It was a bit of a hassle when leaving the car or when it rained.
combo	Overall it was a great tour and an amazing experience that I hope to have again one day."
combo	"Had a spectacular experience with this company.
combo	Did a 9 day tour with nyoungwe, volcanoes national park, lake Kivu, Akagera and more.
combo	We didn’t have to worry about anything and we were in great hands.
combo	Sam Elliot was the perfect guide, very knowledgable, kind, and accommodating.
combo	We are already looking forward to coming back someday and would highly recommend this company."
combo	"Serenity Adventure Safari designed our holiday & we enjoyed Gorilla Trek Africa as they organize the Tour Guides.
combo	Our trip with them was enjoyable & informative, the love of their country surpasses all understandings.
combo	Learnt about livelihood as people live with nature & I loved that gorilla pouchers get arrested as previous hunters were retrained to be trekkers."
combo	"This is a post-Covid review for a pre-Covid 7 day Rwanda-Uganda gorilla and chimp tour from Jan 30 - Feb 5th, 2020.
combo	I was traveling by myself. .
combo	I did very little planning for this spontaneous trip and Nelson did great with the lack of notice that I gave him in setting up my trip.
combo	Although it was scheduled to rain for the entire week, I rolled the dice and it worked out well.
combo	Elvis Mandela was my guide and he turned into a friend by the end of the 7 days.
combo	He is a very good driver and he was very knowledgeable about Rwanda/Uganda.
combo	I felt very safe with him the entire trip and I really enjoyed getting to know him!.
combo	Sorry for the late review!"
combo	"Our journey started with prompt and well-explained emails with Nelson.
combo	I felt comfortable booking this from the start due to his professionalism.
combo	On the morning of the trek, our driver, Julius, arrived early at our hotel.
combo	He was not only friendly and professional, but treated us like a family-friend.
combo	When he heard that we did not pack ""gaiters"" (leg coverings, definitely bring these!
combo	), he ran into his own home to loan us each a pair.
combo	He went truly above and beyond the whole day.
combo	When we arrived at the meeting camp, we were placed into a group and oriented with our guide.
combo	Our guide was also great; he knew SO much about the gorillas, which he seemed to regard as his friends.
combo	He knew all of their individual names and characteristics.
combo	He had been working with them for many many years, and we felt very happy that we were going into the jungle with him!
combo	After only about an hour of hiking up the beautiful mountain, we were ushered off of the path and onto the brush.
combo	Our guide used his machete to hack a walking path up over the brush for us (so cool!).
combo	And then, we saw them.
combo	A family of gorillas!
combo	It was thrilling.
combo	But we could not see the silverback, so the trackers went deeper into the brush to find him for us.
combo	Once located, we followed to catch a glimpse.
combo	He was majestic.
combo	There were perhaps 20 gorillas that we saw in total.
combo	It was completely amazing, and I can't recommend it more.
combo	Of note- We had no trouble hiking or climbing or ducking through the brush, but you want to be in at least moderate shape for this.
combo	You do go off the path and really hike through brash brush, but the guides and trackers are very helpful in guiding you."
combo	"This trip was truly a once in a lifetime experience that blew us away, in every way!
combo	We are so very grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it and don't believe it would have been the same had it not been for our fabulous guide Eric (Manzi) with Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	Rwanda is an incredible country in so many ways, from the absolutely stunning natural beauty of it's geography and wildlife, to the heart breaking history of genocide and the truly remarkable rebuilding and reconciliation that has taken place since.
combo	The present day Rwanda possesses a unique sense of unity, vibrant arts and cultural scene and culinary offerings that are just as diverse as they are delicious!
combo	We were in country for about 9 days total, which included the 5 day gorilla/chimp/golden monkey trek.
combo	This included Nyungwe and Volcano National Park.
combo	Coming from North America, this is probably about as short a trip as you would want, allowing for some time for travel and potential delays as well as a day on either end to relax.
combo	The trekking itself was easy to moderately difficult, but is highly dependent on both weather and your communication with the park guides to tailor the experience to your fitness level.
combo	In our case, Eric made sure to arrange an appropriate experience for us.
combo	Practical advice - pack properly with rain gear (jacket and pants), hiking boots, long socks, long sleeves, gloves etc.
combo	as the terrain can be difficult (especially when wet) and the flora sharp and itchy at times (when you step off paths for animal approaches) .
combo	Hiking poles are usually provided, although we also brought our own.
combo	Pack and prepare properly and you will have a great time!
combo	So with all that.... can we just say ~ GORILLAS!
combo	Imagine the most serial and beautiful moment, multiply that and then you are near what it was like to stand near these mystical apes.
combo	That said, every day we had an experience like no other and recommend visiting this insanely unique country (whether it be on your own, as a couple, as a group of friends or as a family ~ particularly with older kids/teens).
combo	Three quick things to note: 1.
combo	If you have been contemplating a trip like this, just do it, you will not regret it!
combo	2.
combo	Your trip doesn't have to be high season - ours was at the beginning of March, and we were fortunate to have incredible weather - sunny with brief periods of rain and much fewer tourists than usual.
combo	3.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa provides a fantastic overall experience; excellent coordination in booking, superb tour guides, transportation, and accommodation.
combo	In particular we could not recommend Eric more highly.
combo	He is an excellent ambassador for Rwanda.
combo	He is not only passionate about wildlife and nature but was also able to speak on virtually all aspects of Rwandan culture, society and history.
combo	He took every opportunity to make our trip special, and truly made the trip the incredible experience that it was!"
combo	"We just spent 14 days amazing days with Gorilla Trek Africa seeing Uganda and Rwanda from Murchison Falls to Volcano’s National Park.
combo	Our itinerary included: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest National Park (chimp trekking), Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi National Park (gorillas), Volcanoes National Park (golden monkeys).
combo	One important note, we chose to do two gorilla treks (with a rest day in between) I would highly recommend.
combo	They are truly magnificent animals, and the one hour goes by really fast.
combo	We did the planning via email.
combo	Nelson (from Gorilla Trek Africa) always responded promptly and was attentive to the details.
combo	He provided us with a packing list that we found to be right on target.
combo	The trip was very well planned, and the pace of the trip, while hectic, ensured that we got it all in without being overwhelmed.
combo	Also, his advice was always right on target!
combo	Our guide (Sam) and his protégé (Edwin) were absolutely THE BEST!!!!
combo	They picked us up (four women in their 50s/60s) when we arrived in country and dropped us off at the airport at the end of the trip.
combo	Sam knew the country and made sure that we had everything that we needed to get the most out of the trip.
combo	It’s a small thing, but without our asking, he went above and beyond making sure we never ran out of Coke Zero (not readily available in Uganda) in the cooler and internet access as long as his phone could pick up a signal.
combo	It’s the little things that can really make a trip or turn it into a miserable experience.
combo	And, of course, it is how guides handle the unexpected that really distinguishes them.
combo	When we had some problems with the vehicle, Sam made sure the trip was not disrupted and arranged for another vehicle to take us to our next stop.
combo	Sam (and the jeep) met us at breakfast the next morning.
combo	When it looked like it might rain on the day of our chimp trek, Sam got us to the ranger station early, and we were able to immediately head out to the jungle and before it started raining.
combo	This was important because when it rains the chimps head up into the trees, and you do not see them.
combo	I highly recommend this group if you want to see Uganda/Rwanda!
combo	Nelson and I started planning the trip 18 months in advance during the Ebola outbreak in the Congo and the kidnapping of the American woman in western Uganda.
combo	However, our group always felt like we are in good hands with Gorilla Trek Africa and never had any concerns regarding our personal safety.
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa for delivering the “Trip of a Lifetime”!"
combo	"First of all, Rwanda itself is an amazing country--extremely beautiful, mountainous terrain and a vibrant, colorful culture full of friendly people.
combo	It is extremely clean and the main roads are very good.
combo	You should consider coming to Rwanda for more than the gorillas.
combo	It is an amazing place!
combo	They have many great hikes and a variety of amazing national parks.
combo	We were blown away by the total experience.
combo	Second, the gorilla trek was amazing.
combo	You are literally right there with the gorillas--within feet of them--with no jeep in between, unlike animal safaris on the plains.
combo	It is intense.
combo	You'll feel exhilarated and vulnerable.
combo	Our guide was totally expert, and the trackers were amazing.
combo	It was incredible to hear them actually talking to the gorillas and incredible to spend an hour with a family group.
combo	There is nothing else like this experience!
combo	If I were doing it again, I would do the gorillas one day and choose another hike the second day to experience this beautiful country even more.
combo	Some pointers to make your gorilla hike the best possible: 1.
combo	This is at altitude in rough terrain.
combo	The path is not necessarily well groomed, footing can be very tricky, and the guides can't tell you exactly where you'll be going--the gorillas dictate that.
combo	We did an easy-medium hike, and while we found it physically easy--we are from 6,000 feet in altitude and physically active--the footing and terrain were challenging.
combo	The guides will go at the pace of the slowest person in the group and they will take care of you.
combo	They are wonderful.
combo	That being said, two people in our group had a really hard time with the altitude.
combo	The guides helped them, and they made it to the gorillas, but it was not easy for them.
combo	We were crawling through bamboo caves on hands and knees at a couple of points, and our guides even had to hack a new trail through the bush for us with their machetes (it was very Indiana-Jones like!).
combo	If you are not physically active, or you're from sea level, choose the easy route.
combo	The altitude WILL affect you.
combo	You're here to see gorillas, not make yourself ill.
combo	Choose wisely.
combo	2.
combo	Wear appropriate clothing.
combo	Closed-toe, well treaded, sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
combo	Waterproof is even better.
combo	Choose light weight, FULL LENGTH pants and light weight shirts with long sleeves.
combo	A baseball hat or small brimmed safari hat will do the best through the close bush.
combo	It is humid and potentially muggy and rainy, but the underbrush is thick, sometimes stinging and thorny, and close in.
combo	Dress accordingly.
combo	3.
combo	Take a light-weight rain coat, water, and a protein bar or two.
combo	4.
combo	Use the walking stick they offer you (it's free).
combo	helpful on rain-slick bamboo and wet trails.
combo	There's no need to take your own walking stick, and the one you own most likely won't work well in the combined heavy underbrush and soft ground.
combo	5.
combo	Take leather gardening-type gloves.
combo	The guides had some gloves to share, but not enough for all.
combo	We trekked through waist-high stinging nettles, and were scrambling over fallen, dry and broken bamboo on hands and knees.
combo	Was very glad to have the gloves.
combo	I was also glad for the adventure!
combo	It was very cool to be trekking though the bamboo forest, so don't let this put you off.
combo	6.
combo	Wear the gaiters.
combo	Most hotels have those for free use for guests; you might want to double-check with your accommodations before you come.
combo	We used our cross-country ski gaiters and they worked great.
combo	Do not think that tucking your pants into your socks will be adequate.
combo	7.
combo	Hire a porter.
combo	They are wonderful.
combo	I am a very active, experienced mountain girl, but was happy to have a porter help me down the very slick, wet bamboo and through the mud.
combo	Don't be proud.
combo	Help support the locals and make your trek that much more enjoyable!
combo	Enjoy this incredibly unique experience!"
combo	"We stood in the midst of a primal jungle which dazzled our senses.
combo	Our eyes gorged on the lush vegetation, towering tree ferns and curious gorillas.
combo	Our nostrils marvelled at the unique smells and jungle fragrances.
combo	Our ears danced to the tune of songbird.
combo	Out hearts were filled with anticipation and joy and our minds forged memories that will last a lifetime.
combo	And this was just one of our 5 equally thrilling days.
combo	One evening we would be sitting down after a busy day of safari sipping on a beer on our balcony overlooking the great rift valley elephant spotting, the next we would be following Justice our renegade night walk guide searching for elusive nocturnal primates.
combo	One day we would be walking through a community village with the gentle kindness of birdwatching enthusiast & all round decent guy Peter, the next we would be following a wise old chimpanzee walking through primeval forest.
combo	My magical Ugandan trip has been etched into my soul and will echo in eternity and its all thanks to Gorilla trek.
combo	Nelson was an administrative maestro and was prompt and polite.
combo	Elvis our guide was a revelation - patient, informative, punctual and personable with a sharp wit, can’t say no attitude and an encyclopaedic knowledge in Ugandan history, politics and geography.
combo	Would thoroughly recommend."
combo	"We booked the LUXURY 5-day gorilla trek which included the chimps and game drives.
combo	Nelson our contact was pleasant and timely.
combo	Our guide Obed was also good.
combo	The reason for the rating relates to the accommodations.
combo	We paid for luxury and received comfort at best with the last accommodation.
combo	The first location was nice but it went downhill from there.
combo	When I raised it as an issue, I was told that Luxury in Uganda is not really Luxury.
combo	Nelson said there are two higher classifications above Luxury (e.g., super and elite).
combo	Based on all my research (and I did a lot), there was only three classifications for packages offered by all the trekking companies - Luxury being the top end.
combo	It is very unfortunate when you walk away from such an experience with ill feelings such as being taken advantage of."
combo	"I booked a 2 day Uganda gorilla tour with Gorilla Trek Africa from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
combo	Everything was organised via email with Nelson who was extremely helpful.
combo	My guide, Julius, picked me up from my hotel in Kigali the day before the trek to drive me to Bwindi.
combo	Julius was a fantastic guide!
combo	He was friendly, professional and knowledgeable and made sure that the whole experience was relaxed and extremely enjoyable.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa/Julius organised all of my meals for the 2 days and my accommodation for the night before the trek.
combo	I trekked in the Rushaga section of Bwindi and the whole day was fantastic from start to finish, especially the hour I spent with the Mishaya gorilla family of 13.
combo	A long drive back to Kigali after a tough trek but Julius helped to make it as enjoyable as possible with lots of water, fresh pineapple and telling me all about the communities and the topography that we drove through.
combo	I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, thank you so much for a fantastic experience!"
combo	"My wife and I had four nonstop days through beautiful Rwanda.
combo	Our excellent guide, Gavis, met us at our hotel in Kigali.
combo	We then took a city tour of the capital, including a stop at the Genocide Memorial.
combo	Gavis drove us out to Akagera National Park where we experienced unforgettable day and night game drives.
combo	Capping off the trip was a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Throughout the four days, Gavis was a gracious host, putting up with our silly questions and groan worthy jokes.
combo	We'll gladly recommend Gorilla Trek and Gavis for our family and friends or anyone else interested in spending adventurous time in Rwanda.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"There are really no words that can describe the experience of being among a family of gorillas.
combo	There were 20 in our first group and 34 in our group the next day.
combo	With only 8 tourists and 4 guides/rangers, you can be right next to the family.
combo	I could post hundreds of photos, but suffice it to say, I loved every minute of watching the toddlers play, the moms nurse, and the silverbacks be ridiculously nonchalant about our presence.
combo	Worth every $$$ spent!!"
combo	"Absolutely amazing adventure.
combo	We first spent time in Kigali and them went to Uganda to trek.
combo	Our guide's name was Jovia - she owns gorillahikeafrica and is a native of the area.
combo	Our trip was so much fun.
combo	We learned alot about the countries - which are beautiful.
combo	The trek was amazing and the gorillas were only about 15 feet away - frolicking and eating.
combo	They are incredible animals.
combo	I would highly recommend this adventure and Jovia.
combo	She was a great guide - fun, knowledgeable, punctual and very flexible."
combo	"Just had an amazing 15 day Safari in Uganda.
combo	Big ‘thank you’ to Nelson for organising a fabulous itinerary - chimps, gorillas, golden monkeys, tree climbing lions - we saw them all plus more.
combo	And a round of applause to our amazing guide Ivan - he was so knowledgeable about Uganda, it’s wonderful wildlife and the birds.
combo	He was so accommodating as we added extra activities.
combo	We went for the deluxe accommodation package and we weren’t disappointed- every place had something different.
combo	Be aware that some of the rooms weren’t close to reception or were accessed by a slope, so that if you need an easy access room, make sure that you say.
combo	The food was delicious so we didn’t go hungry at all.
combo	The vegetarian options were also good.
combo	For anyone wanting to visit Uganda, I would highly recommend this company and I am happy for you to contact me."
combo	"Based on the reviews here at Trip Advisor and the prompt and helpful responses from Nelson, my husband and I decided to use Gorilla Trek Africa for our Ugandan adventure.
combo	I will admit that we were holding our breath when we arrived at Entebbe airport but our fears were put to rest when Elvis stepped forward with his great smile to greet us and welcome us to Uganda.
combo	We had a wonderful trip, the gorilla treks were beyond our expectations - such magnificent animals, there is just no way to describe the experience of being that close to them in the wild, still get chills thinking about it!
combo	The rest of the trip (chimp tracking, rhino tracking, game drives, wonderful people, super lodges) was all excellent.
combo	Elvis was a great guide and driver (on absolutely abysmal roads), he was very knowledgeable about the wildlife and birds and super at spotting game.
combo	We have traveled extensively and have no qualms about recommending Gorilla Trek Africa for your gorilla trek adventure - they were great!"
combo	"My husband and I, both in our 60s have just returned from Rwanda after the most amazing experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our trip was first arranged by Nelson who was always quick to reply to emails and answered all our questions.
combo	All the arrangements and the itinerary he prepared for us were perfect.
combo	We were met at Kigali airport by the amazing Mildred, our guide/driver who looked after us during the next 3 days.
combo	Mildred was helpful, friendly and knowledgeable about the gorillas and expertly liaised with trek organisers and lodge staff especially arranging for my dietary needs to be addressed.
combo	Thank you Mildred for making our experience so amazing.
combo	We would thoroughly recommend using Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone contemplating visiting Rwanda to see these majestic animals in their own environment."
combo	"We just got home this week from our 10 day trip to Uganda & Rwanda.
combo	It was wonderful.
combo	Over the top!!
combo	Our guide, Ivan was terrific and really knew his birds.
combo	I was amazed that he could drive and spot so many birds along the way.
combo	I had never used Gorilla Trek Africa and despite their great rating on Trip Advisor I was skeptical all the way until I saw our driver waiting for us at the Kigali Airport.
combo	In the end the trip was all we had hoped for and the some.I would use them again in a heartbeat and recommend them to anyone & everyone.
combo	Every lodge they put us at was unique and special in it's own way.
combo	The service at every lodge we stayed was impressive!!
combo	Seeing the gorillas, chimps and golden monkeys on our treks was an incredible experience.
combo	Thank you Nelson for all your hard work in the planning of this trip!!
combo	Mike Morris"
combo	Was the best experience I've ever had.
combo	Definitely worth the price.
combo	It was the best thing I did on my whole trip.
combo	"I started adding gorilla treks to my itinerary two years ago and because of the reviews on Trip Advisor, I selected Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I have not been disappointed and will continue to work with them.
combo	My main contact with the operator, Nelson, is very responsive and timely in putting together the itinerary and helping select lodging, etc.
combo	The drivers/guides have been very knowledgeable, flexible, and personable.
combo	Our treks have been successful and everyone is very excited about the overall experience.
combo	I'll be back and travel with GTA again.
combo	Thumbs Up!"
combo	"It's expensive, very expensive even but what an amazing experience.
combo	To have gorillas come right up to you in their natural habitat is amazing.
combo	They are completely at ease with humans and really couldn't care if you are there or not😀.
combo	Once in a lifetime experience."
combo	"My family and I visited Rwanda and Uganda for some gorilla trekking last December.
combo	Chris Ngabirano was our tour guide from the moment we landed until we departed.
combo	We spent 3 days with him traveling through Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	He was our tour guide and became friend.
combo	Very nice person, extremely kind, gentle and smart.
combo	Everything about this trip was perfect and it exceeded our expectations in so many ways.
combo	Can´t say enough about the gorilla encounter.
combo	Our kids loved the experience, and Chris was always aware of every tiny detail to make our stay as enjoyable as possible.
combo	Thumbs up for this experience.
combo	Thanks, Chris, for everything.
combo	We miss you!
combo	The Naranjos"
combo	"Trekked Volcanoes NP in Rwanda and Bwindi NP in Uganda.
combo	Saw lots of gorillas and the golden monkeys in Rwanda.
combo	Fantastic.
combo	Accommodations were good, food was OK, but the highlight was our guide, Jims.
combo	He knew the lay of the land, smoothed the Rwanda to Uganda border crossing, hauled lots of bags and was a magician at hauling us safely through African traffic.
combo	Highly recommend GTA!"
combo	"Me and my husband did an 8 day trip to see gorillas in BwindiNational Park and Volcanoes National Park.
combo	A friend had used GTA and I did a comparison of prices and itinerary with other your operators.
combo	Nelson responded with a lot of clarity & information & worked out a wonderful itinerary for us.
combo	Elvis was our guide and driver.
combo	He was a wonderful driver, knowledgeable & helpful.
combo	We visited Akagera NP for 2 days followed by a scenic drive to Uganda.My husband is a wildlife photographer & Elvis knew they perfect spots to stop & help us identify birds & photography.
combo	Gorilla trekking at Bwindi was such an amazing experience.
combo	We stayed at Gorilla Safari lodge in Rwanda near Volcanoes NP & the hospitality was incredible.
combo	Gorilla trekking at VNP is another life altering experience.
combo	So was the golden monkeys tour the next day.
combo	We want to thank Nelson and team especially Elvis for making this such a perfect trip.
combo	Thank you guys"
combo	"We did a 6 day tour with Gavis and can’t recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and our guide Gavis enough!
combo	From start to finish it was just like we were chilling on a great tour with our friends rather than with a tour guide.
combo	Booking with Nelson was easy and he was so kind and friendly with accommodating all of our itinerary requests.
combo	Gavis was an awesome and knowledgeable guide, excellent driver, and great DJ.
combo	He even made pitstops for us to go and check out things we’d heard about from other travelers, knows all the best routes, safari secrets, and every other guide out there.
combo	Can’t wait to come back and visit again!"
combo	"We took a leap of faith booking our trip with Gorilla Trek Africa: we only read about them on TripAdvisor and had no external source to verify with.
combo	Yet, our decision paid off, and our trip turned out to be a great success.
combo	Nelson, at their back office worked with us to tailor a trip to our interest - namely, wildlife (especially gorillas and chimps), sceneries, and much less local culture, shopping and community walks.
combo	Our guide, Ivan, picked us up at the airport, on time, and made us feel welcome immediately.
combo	Other than being super knowledgeable about anything Uganda (local life, agricultural, wildlife and more), he was also an incredible driver.
combo	The roads in Uganda are challenging, and the car he had to navigate these roads with, was a real piece of you-know-what.
combo	Yet, he did a marvelous job.
combo	In the end of the day, we tracked gorillas in Bwindi, and chimps in Kibale forest; we saw an amazing variety of monkeys; we came up close and personal with hippos, elephants and crocs at the Kazinga channel; and did more traditional safari game drives at Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	What more can one ask?
combo	Maybe two things: 1.
combo	You should insist that the car would be in decent shape (ours kept choking).
combo	2.
combo	I wish they accepted Amex.
combo	It would have saved me some hurtburns taking my chances and booking ny trip (given Amex's insurance-like feature).
combo	Bottom line - Go!
combo	What are you waiting for??"
combo	"I went on a 5-day trip in Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	My guide was Norman.
combo	He was super professional, always on time, knowledgeable, calm, positive, friendly and organised.
combo	I learned a lot and had a fabulous time seeing chimps, gorillas and golden monkeys.
combo	I would definitely recommend this company!"
combo	"My brother and I did the three day Uganda gorilla and golden monkey treks.
combo	Both of these were amazing trips, where we saw true Ugandan jungle and rain.
combo	The star of the show was our guide, Elias!
combo	He went above and beyond, he accommodated our dietary requirements and even helped us find a good car to hire and helped to plan the rest of our trip.
combo	Would highly recommend, again, thank you so much Elias!!!"
combo	Absolutely brilliant!
combo	This trip was a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Our tour guide Krish Walusansa was amazing.
combo	He went out of his way to make it the best trip ever.
combo	Would thoroughly recommend both him and this tour company!!
combo	!
combo	"It is still hard to believe in my eyes.
combo	This was the most sureal 1 hour I´ve ever experieced.
combo	For anyone that can aford it (I know its expensive), I just say: Go for it!"
combo	"I found out I was going to Kigali for work and immediately knew I had to figure out a way to see gorillas on short notice and little free time.
combo	From the first moment of contact, I knew Gorilla Trek Africa was the way to go.
combo	Nelson was very responsive to all of my questions and sent a very helpful packing list.
combo	Although I intended to do the one-day trek (with super early departure from Kigali), he sold me on the two day trek and it was WELL worth it.
combo	Allen is a WONDERFUL driver.
combo	She picked me up at the hotel, explained so many things along the way, was very open to stopping along the drive for pictures.
combo	I loved stopping for fresh produce at a roadside market.
combo	Luckily the rain stopped so we were able to go to the Gorilla Guardians Village for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.
combo	Banana beer is a must-try!
combo	Allen dropped me off at the Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel for an exceptional night of relaxation ...
combo	I was the only one on the property that night!
combo	The staff were extremely kind and attentive, my room was vast and comfortable, and the food was delicious.
combo	Dinner by the fireplace is something I won't forget.
combo	I felt like I was at home.
combo	The next morning, Allen picked me up.
combo	The Five Volcanoes staff loaned me gaiters for the hike, and we went to the orientation area.
combo	From there, the hike was the experience of a lifetime.
combo	I won't go into detail, but let's just say a baby gorilla was involved and leave it at that.
combo	:) After the hike, Allen picked me up, we retrieved my things from the hotel, and we headed back to Kigali.
combo	When she dropped me off, I felt like I was saying goodbye to a friend.
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and definitely recommend Allen as your driver!"
combo	"I have been communicating with Nelson via email for 3 years about potentially planning a Gorilla Trek experience in Rwanda or Uganda.
combo	I eventually decided to see the Mountain Gorillas at Bwindi Inpenetrable National Forest in Kanungu District, Uganda.
combo	The experience was nothing short of amazing.
combo	The rolling mountain hills and valleys of Kanungu are absolutely breathtaking.
combo	I got a chance to observe three beautiful Mountain Gorillas, including a Silverback in their natural habitat.
combo	The 20-30 minute forest hike was challenging, primarily because I don't like heights.
combo	However, my very kind, strong porter was there to assist my every step.
combo	I could not have safely completed this journey without a porter ($15 USD).
combo	Nelson and his team, are professional and very hospitable.
combo	I felt very safe on my solo journey.
combo	I just want to thank Gorilla Trek Africa and their team for taking care of me for three days.
combo	I appreciate it!
combo	I want to encourage anyone who is financially able to experience the Mountain Gorillas - there are only about 1,000 remaining on earth."
combo	"I with trepidation organized my solo travel from Sydney to see the Mountain Gorilla's in the triangle of national parks bordered by Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, from what I had read on both travel websites and also warnings from the Australian government websites, I avoided the DRC and Uganda, in retrospect I could have gone through Uganda, But I was very happy with my decision to use Gorilla Trek Africa and my contact there Nelson did everything he promised and it was one of the best travel experiences I have ever had my guide Geoffrey was waiting at Kigali Airport drove very safely to my accommodation in the mountains and organised everything, I would thoroughly recommend this trip and company to anyone, Best Regards Graeme Sydney Australia"
combo	"I did a 2-day Gorilla Trecking Tour with Gorilla Trek Africa in Rwanda.
combo	It was an excellent stay and very well organized (transfers, hotel nearby the national park, food, Gorilla permit).
combo	Allen was an excellent driver, kept me informed and took care of everything.
combo	Everything was included: pick-up at hotel, stops at local market (Allen got me some local food to eat, shopping at local market), accompanied me for dinner in the hotel, organized everything perfectly.
combo	And the gorillas were awesome!
combo	If you are in a less good physical shape, you can get help by one of the local guides (we had a 70year old lady who made it through the rain forest to the gorillas) I booked via info@rwandagorillassafari.com .
combo	Quick response time.
combo	You will get a packing list with things required for your tour.
combo	And ask for Allen being your driver :-).
combo	Thank you so much for this unforgettable trip!"
combo	"Fr Gorilla Tracking there are so many companies to choose from.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa came recommended by friends from Germany and we weren't disappointed, Nelson set up the perfect tour for us and I rarely had to wait for an email reply from him.
combo	There are many tours that can be customized.
combo	The driver/guide we had for the 5 days was not only knowledgeable but became a friend.
combo	His name is Asaph and I can't see using any one else."
combo	"From the minute I exited the airport I was greeted by my driver, welcomed at my hotel and taken on a life altering trip that I will never forget.
combo	I’m extremely impressed with GTA!
combo	I also wanted to mention that Mildred is one of the best, if not the best guide I have ever had and I’ve traveled the world.
combo	She is communicative, knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, a great driver and guide and I would highly recommend that you request her as your guide and driver.
combo	She made a trip that was already incredible, perfect!
combo	Thank you GTA and Mildred!"
combo	"Truly an amazing trip and Gorilla Trek Africa did an awesome job.
combo	Charles, who was my guide and driver during my journey, is simply the best guide.
combo	He is knowledgeable, a great conversationalist, and he truly ensures the guest’s enjoyment of the adventure is without a single worry.
combo	I felt absolutely safe during my trip, both in the wild and while traveling.
combo	I spent one night at the Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge in Uganda and one night at the Gorilla Solution Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Both lodges were great and the staff at each lodge were excellent.
combo	I would highly recommend that anyone who loves nature experience this chance of a lifetime to stand just a few feet away from the Mountain Gorillas in Uganda and the Golden Monkeys in Rwanda."
combo	"My husband and I went on a 3 day tour in Rwanda to see the gorillas as part of our honeymoon.
combo	When looking for a tour company, we were nervous to book but with Gorilla Trek Africa we needn’t have been.
combo	Our guide, Norman, was friendly, professional and informative.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was an incredible experience and I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for the tour.
combo	Thank you to Norman and the team for looking after us and facilitating a once in a life time experience!"
combo	"This was a trip of a lifetime.
combo	I went on a 5 day Gorilla and Safari Trek at the end of September.
combo	I could not fault one thing at all, our driver guide Azariah looked after us so well and his knowledge was amazing, driving through Uganda was breathtaking.
combo	Its definately a place I want to revisit.
combo	We were never left hungry, the fresh produce and meals exceeded our expectations.
combo	The Gorilla trek itself - WOW !
combo	To finally see these beatiful creatures in their natural habitat is something that I will never forget.
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa !"
combo	"We just completed a 10 days travel through Rwanda and Uganda and it was one of the best experiences we ever had.
combo	Not only for the beautiful places we visited and all the trekking but because of the extraordinary service provided by Gorilla Trek Africa, specially by Gavis, our guide.
combo	Nelson was also fantastic, since the beggining responded to all my concerns immediately.
combo	Gavis is really resourceful, respectful, a fantastic driver, and a great trip companion.
combo	The car was in perfect conditions and even if it was rainy season Gavis managed to go through all the tough roads, where other cars got stucked.
combo	If you come to Rwanda and Uganda I recommend you to travel with this company and you should request Gavis as your guide.
combo	I am looking forward to return to Rwanda and Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"My wife and I had an absolutely amazing five day tour with our guide Douglas!
combo	We began from Kigali where we stayed at the Kigali Serena (excellent hotel!).
combo	We spent our first day touring around Kigali with Douglas, and then headed to Volcanos NP to see the golden monkeys.
combo	The golden monkey trekking (short hike) was great as we spent an hour with a large group of monkeys up close.
combo	This experience really exceeded my expectations as the monkeys were very cute, playful, and coming right next to us.
combo	We next headed up to Uganda to see the gorillas in Bwindi NP.
combo	The night before we were set to see the gorillas it poured rain and our car was stuck just short of the lodge on the dirt road.
combo	Luckily though, the next day for our gorilla trek the skies cleared and we had a beautiful day for a hike.
combo	We were assigned in a smaller group (4 guests) to see some gorillas that were a little farther out.
combo	Keep in mind the assignment is something that happens day-of at the start area based on the guides determining physical fitness of the guests.
combo	Given we were a younger couple we got assigned to one of the groups that was further out but we had no idea just how long of a trek it would turn out to be.
combo	We first heard and got a small glimpse of the gorillas a couple hours in but they were on the move, running from another wild family of gorillas.
combo	We spent the next couple hours bush-whacking through the jungle with our trackers, tripping, getting snagged, and even tumbling our way along to keep up with the gorillas.
combo	It was not for the faint of heart but was all worth it when we caught them and got up close with silver-backs, babies and the rest of the family.
combo	All in all we were out for nearly 8 hours, and while difficult, we thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and overall experience.
combo	We were assured this was not typical for these treks as we did see many other older couples/groups who were out and having much easier treks.
combo	The next day we headed to Queen Elizabeth park for a short, 1-night safari before we had to fly out of Entebbe.
combo	We saw the tree-climbing lions which were impressive and then did a short boat cruise on Lake Edward to see birds, crocs, hippos, etc.
combo	Having come from Botswana right before this (where we were spoiled with how close all the animals are), we didn't feel this safari part was anything special animal-wise but the tree-climbing lions made the detour worth it.
combo	Overall, we loved our itinerary as we got to see a lot of different things in five days.
combo	There was a fair amount of driving between locations but we were ok with this trade-off to expand what we could see throughout both Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	Throughout the entire trip Douglas was extremely helpful - going out of his way to make sure we were happy and got to see the best things (like tree climbing lions).
combo	It was clear he has a ton of experience, and had deep local knowledge and knew all the ins and outs to ensure a smooth tour.
combo	Douglas also knew when to give us space and free time so we could explore on our own.
combo	I'd give Douglas five stars and recommend him to anyone going on this trip.
combo	We'll be back someday to see the gorillas again in the future with Gorilla Trek Africa and Douglas!
combo	-Peter and Katie"
combo	"From the moment we were picked up by Eric in Kigali to the moment we were dropped back, the three days we had with Gorilla Trek Africa were the most memorable of our lives so far.
combo	Eric was a terrific guide who took great care of us the whole time.
combo	We had a great tour of the city, he gave us plenty of time to look around, pointed out the best photo opportunities, was very informative, friendly and helpful (but beware the banana wine!!).
combo	Do not leave the genocide memorial in Kigali off your itinerary - it is a must do!
combo	We stayed at the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge in Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The staff, food, accommodation were all fantastic - they even clean your walking boots after trekking!
combo	The gorilla trek was a once in a lifetime experience and you will not regret a single penny.
combo	To see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat is unforgettable and almost unbelievable.
combo	We trekked for almost 3 hours to find our family (the Ntambara Group) with lots of information from the guide along the way.
combo	Definitely get a porter who can carry your bag but more importantly help you through the dense undergrowth and brush off the fire ants!
combo	We are both reasonably fit and found the trek comfortable, you just have to concentrate where you're stepping.
combo	We would recommend sticking with one lens for your camera, take some video on your phone but make sure you stop and watch and take it all in - the hour will fly by!
combo	The cultural village and the golden monkey trek are both great additions to the whole experience and you should visit the Diane Fossey museum in Musanze.
combo	We cannot recommend Gorilla Trek Africa enough - Eric was a brilliant guide, the vehicle was super comfortable with water always on hand and limitless advice and information.
combo	Everything went to time but nothing was rushed.
combo	We would go back in a heartbeat."
combo	"Setting up our trip was a little challenging.
combo	There were several mistakes made with our itinerary and required many emails.
combo	The nice thing was that Nelson from Gorilla Trek Africa responded promptly.
combo	The frustrating thing was that small mistakes had to be clarified several times to get it right.
combo	I was a bit worried about my trek...
combo	BUT.
combo	from the MOMENT we were picked up at the hotel by Peter, all worries vanished.
combo	Peter was excellent.
combo	Great English, knowledgeable, friendly, professional.
combo	He stayed with us and ensured we always knew what to expect next.
combo	He was flexible for things we wanted to do last minute.
combo	We felt safe with him everywhere we went.
combo	I would recommend this company and ask for Peter as your guide!!!!
combo	It was a fantastic wonderful experience."
combo	"So many good things to say, it’s hard to know where to start.
combo	From the initial emails with Nelson, who was very fast with replies and helpful info, to the outstanding and wonderful tour guiding by Enos, to the incredible wildlife experiences, lovely accommodation, and beautiful encounters with Rwandans and Ugandans, this was an outstanding experience.
combo	This company does a top-notch, professional job, but also there is a level of warmth, understanding, flexibility and kindness that is quite special.
combo	Almost immediately I felt that I was traveling with a trusted friend, because Enos went above and beyond to make sure I felt at home.
combo	And we had quite a ew good laughs.
combo	As a solo female traveler, this is great, but I’m also sure that a couple or family would appreciate this generous hospitality.
combo	I can’t thank him enough.
combo	I chose the mid-level accommodations, and all were great.
combo	The staff at each place were just wonderful, the food was delicious, often the views were spectacular.
combo	It’s pretty astounding the level of hospitality that is given.
combo	The gorilla trek was quite an experience, and it was maybe an hour trek each way, but extremely steep up and down, and very slippery, as it had rained very hard the night before.
combo	Be prepared; maybe you will be on a trek not as steep or slippery, but it’s very possible.
combo	Being with the gorilla family was amazing.
combo	No words can express it.
combo	There were some people in my group who I have to say I think made it a little hard on the great and hard working park rangers because they were pretty aggressive with their desire for many, many up close photos, so I also would advise, please be respectful of the animals, the staff, and the other people in the group.
combo	I got amazing photos just using my smartphone, because for some of us, the dream is to simply be with the gorillas in their environment.
combo	More than likely, you will get great photos without pro equipment, but it is the time when things were quiet, and it was just me and one other tourist just sitting quietly with a mama and 2-year old that is the jewel in the crown of the trek.
combo	I highly recommend hiring a porter for each person.
combo	It’s not about whether you’re fit or not; they know the environment and are really helpful, and you’re putting that money back into the community.
combo	It’s yet another way to support community engagement in conservation.
combo	I also spent a lakefront quiet day at Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge and went on a lovely canoe trip where we saw a great variety of beautiful birds.
combo	If you can work in a quiet day, especially if you’re planning on 2 gorilla treks and can have a more mellow day, this is a really nice option.
combo	There was a kind of balcony area in front of my room with an incredible lake view; I could have sat there all day.
combo	Last day was golden monkey trekking.
combo	This was an easy trek through pretty farmland and then into a gorgeous bamboo forest.
combo	It was quiet at first, and then there were many golden monkeys, and they were very close.
combo	It was magical.
combo	Our ranger guide Odille was a superstar, and the other rangers and trackers were so kind and helpful.
combo	Do it if you can.
combo	You may feel you don’t need a porter for this, but again, why not?
combo	I think they charge $10, and maybe you give them a nice tip and you’re supporting the community and conservation.
combo	The wildlife and scenery are wonderful.
combo	But perhaps the biggest take away is the warmth and heart of people.
combo	Really a beautiful experience."
combo	Just finished my 6 days tour and it was AMAZING.
combo	My guide is Peter and he took care of me during the whole trip as I was a solo traveler.
combo	Very trustworthy company!
combo	非常棒的体验，这家公司的导游很敬业，整个旅程也非常安全
combo	"Even after exchanging a swarm of e-mails with tour organiser Nelson over every detail of our 5-day Uganda/Rwanda trip, I was still skeptical of whether someone would actually show up to pick us up after arriving in Kigali.
combo	Not only were we picked up by a fully-equipped comfortable SUV, our guide Asaph turned out to be cherry on top of a life-changing incredible experience.
combo	I can’t find the words to express how strongly I recommend Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	Nelson was patient and communicative throughout the booking/confirmation process and once in Rwanda/Uganda, Asaph went above and beyond at every opportunity.
combo	We were always the first to be organized into a tour group, the best prepared because of the gators and packed lunches he provided/organized for us, and without question- the best taken care of.
combo	He did an exceptional job as a guide, answering historical and sensitive questions about Uganda and Rwanda while checking in on us routinely and taking care of us (including my dietary restrictions at every meal).
combo	This was the most expensive trip I have ever booked in my life and I was very skeptical and with high expectations.
combo	I don’t have a single thing I could offer as feedback on what needs to be improved because Gorilla Trek took care of every detail.
combo	I hope to use their services again someday but until then, all I can say is if you’re going to be in Rwanda/Uganda you will be really glad to have booked through them."
combo	"The email communication with Nelson was excellent, payment with Pesapal easy and secure (4 % surcharge) and our driver Charles was superb .He picked us up at our Kigali hotel and drove us to our lodge (Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge).
combo	We stopped enroute at the Karaoke Research Center (Dian Fossey) and had lunch too.
combo	He was a very good driver and informative guide.
combo	We told Charles we were not interested in hiking for hours to find our gorilla family (we met people who hiked for 9 hours!).
combo	Our jungle hike was probably only 30 minutes each way but it was steep and very slippery.It is worth paying the USD15.00 for a porter to carry your knapsack and help push you.
combo	The one hour encounter with the gorillas was incredible.
combo	Worth every penny.
combo	Charles let us visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial before dropping us off at the airport.
combo	Thank you Charles!!"
combo	Amazing communication from Nelson every step of the way.
combo	Our guide Sam was warm and very passionate about his role and the wider community.
combo	Highly recommend them.
combo	"I can't say enough nice things about this company.
combo	Starting with email correspondence with Nelson - he was always very professional and prompt with his responses.
combo	He made sure to make the 5 days full of activities we would most enjoy and gave honest opinions when we asked questions.
combo	He helped us to arrange airport pick up from Entebbe to Kampala (for $50USD).
combo	Then came Elvis, who we loved and appreciated so much through our journey.
combo	He is an encyclopedia of knowledge, and seems to have an answer to every question from the history of Uganda to what a tree on the side of the road is.
combo	He obviously has much pride in his work and wanted our experience to be the best.
combo	Thanks to him, we saw tree climbing lions, leopards, lions (including cubs!
combo	), etc.
combo	He was always looking around for interesting animals/things to show and teach us about.
combo	During our many hours of car riding together, he was also very respectful and didn't feel that he had to be talking or sharing facts with us all the time.
combo	He drove very safely and cautiously.
combo	It was a relatively cool and rainy trip, and we didn't have any issues with being overly cold or hot in the car.
combo	We started from Kampala and drove to Queen Elizabeth which took about 8 hours (including a 1 hour hot lunch + few other quick stops).
combo	We stayed at Enganzi Lodge, the rooms were spacious and clean, we had hot showers and comfortable beds.
combo	There was a pool that was clean and nice.
combo	The views were incredible (especially at sunset).
combo	They had (limited) beer and wine options and the meals were quite good.
combo	We ended up going on 2 game drives in the Kasenyi area (one extra in the evening because lions had been spotted and Elvis wanted to try our luck - and we were lucky!).
combo	We drove quite a bit but really enjoyed seeing everything, and being low season enjoyed the relative lack of other cars.
combo	Elvis also took us to see a salt lake, beautiful views of crater lakes.
combo	We also went on a boat cruise in the channel and saw many elephants, birds, hippos, etc.
combo	The guide was also knowledgeable and friendly.
combo	Then we drove another 5-6 to see the gorillas.
combo	We chose a medium difficulty walk to see the gorillas, which took about 1 hour or so.
combo	We saw an incredible family of gorillas including 2 babies!
combo	It was an amazing time.
combo	Through the company we also did a walking tour in the village where we were staying and I thought it was pretty good.
combo	We ended our trip in Lake Kivu.
combo	We would recommend this company to any of our family and friends.
combo	The service was great and developed a great appreciation for Uganda!"
combo	"This is a must do for anyone interested in seeing animals in the wild.
combo	I saw about 15 gorillas out of 34 in the group including 4 silverbacks and a 4 month old baby, as well as other babies.
combo	You are so close to wild gorillas but they ignore you.
combo	An amazing experience."
combo	"Nelson was great to deal with in organising and my guide Sam was just brilliant to be with.
combo	He really went above and beyond.
combo	He knew so much and really took the time to educate me on culture, history etc.
combo	He put up with me asking non-stop questions and was really fun and friendly along the way.
combo	He also pulled strings for me at the Gorilla Trekking as I had forgotten my gators and he managed to get me some.
combo	He also drove me all the way to Gisenyi after my Mt Bisoke hike (and picked me up with a hot coffee which was soooo needed) and dropped me at my next hotel which was so kind!!
combo	Gorillas: The hike can really depend on the day - there were people on my trek that had done it the day before and literally walked 20 mins to a clearing where there were 34 gorillas just hanging out.
combo	On my day we hiked up pretty rough terrain (sometimes very steep) for about an hour through thick mud and rainforest.
combo	I would prepare for that!!
combo	Here are my tips: - be healthy - they won’t let you go if you’re sick because you could make the gorillas sick so make sure you’re a picture of health (lots of arma force!
combo	wear gardening gloves and long sleeves - something light but protective because there are stinging nettles everywhere - definitely wear good hiking boots and gators - you get filthy!
combo	Don’t worry though your hotel willl clean your boots up and they’ll be like new again - hire a porter for each person.
combo	They basically help you up the mountain through the mud, cut down trees etc haha!
combo	They’re $10-20 + $10 tip.
combo	They also give you a stick - you will need it!
combo	also take tips for the trackers and guides (suggested $10-20 for each of you ) - your hotel should pack you a pack lunch in case your hike is long - don’t have flash on your camera and listen to the guides about how to interact.
combo	I had a gorilla approach me straight away which was scary but amazing.
combo	Mt Bisoke - This was honestly the hardest trek I've ever done.
combo	There didn't really seem to be a clear path, we just scrambled up the mountain in the mud and then slid back down.
combo	Most of my group didn't make it.
combo	Get a porter and they will basically help you.
combo	Anyone who didn't have a porter didn't make it.
combo	Waterproof everything - it rained A LOT and was very muddy.
combo	My porter was amazing and helped me clean all my stuff at the end of the day.
combo	Gloves and a stick will also help you, but mostly fitness, resilience and/or stubborness will get you to the top!
combo	Totally worth every moment though!
combo	It was incredible...enjoy!"
combo	"The treks, we were warned can be very strenuous, so we were prepared for the worse, but our two separate treks were less than 2 hours one-way to see two separate families.
combo	The guides are very knowledgeable, the porters a great relief on some of those slopes.
combo	The gorillas are at peace and go on with their normal lives.
combo	The children played in the bamboo, mothers ate and napped, the silverbacks pretty much ignored our little group.
combo	Eight visitors maximum for one hour maximum and that hour goes fast.
combo	Expensive, but something you will never forget."
combo	"The staff at Gorilla Trek Africa are outstanding!
combo	We were first contacted by Nelson who planned our itinerary.
combo	Peter N was our guide for the 7 days.
combo	If you are able to request for a specific guide I would highly recommend Peter.
combo	From the first day he made sure that my husband and I were happy, felt safe and had everything that we needed.
combo	We visited Nyungwe National Park where we had a Chimpanzee trek (not for the faint at heart) the chimps constantly move which means that you need to climb up and down very step hills (next time we will hire a porter).
combo	Lake Kivu is beautiful.
combo	Volcanoes National Park where we had a Gorilla Trek (Peter was helpful and made sure that we were placed in group that fitted our hiking ability).
combo	We are both middle aged.
combo	Peter also set up a tour of a local village, if you have time this was a great experience.
combo	The Golden Monkey trek was not too difficult and seeing the monkeys in the wild was amazing.
combo	I recommend that you carry lots of small US bills for tipping.
combo	There were so many local people (guide and trackers) that you will want to tip as they are truly what makes your experience amazing.
combo	Tipping can be in US dollars which helped us :) I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, their employees go above and beyond to make your experience outstanding.
combo	Thank you GTA."
combo	"We visited last summer with our 3 young adult children.
combo	We did a ""medium"" level trek which included about 2-1/2 hours of moderate hiking up to the gorilla family then spent about 1/2 hour with the gorillas.
combo	You can literally reach out and touch them although we were told not to attempt to make contact to protect the gorillas.
combo	The hike down was about 1-1/2 hours.
combo	We had a total group of 8 and one middle-aged woman who had asthma was unable to continue hiking once we entered into the more steep park reserve area (about half way of total trek).
combo	Thankfully, we had each hired a porter (more to support the locals who earn a living doing this) so they constructed a stretcher out of bamboo and vines and 4 of them took turns carrying her up the mountain to the gorilla site and then fully back down (for some negotiated extra fee).
combo	This was the most memorable part of our vacation which also included a visit to Kigali, Tanzania safari and short stay in Zanzibar.
combo	Definitely worth doing!"
combo	"Wonderful experience !!
combo	We made emails contact with Gorilla Trek Africa just 2 weeks before our visit to Rwanda.
combo	Nelson helped us arrange our 7 days programs perfectly.
combo	And our guide Gavis, made our stay in Rwanda nice, easy, and rich of experiences.
combo	We have visited Akagera NP, Lake Kivu and Volcanoes NP of course.
combo	Face to face with Gorilla is possible for everyone, as my husband with hip problem could do it by hiring a stretcher, and a lady 81 years old is also in our group.
combo	Rwanda is a very clean, peaceful and hard working country.
combo	Thank you Gavis and all Gorilla Trek Africa team."
combo	"I am a female solo traveler, and I booked the experience about a week before going on the actual trip.
combo	On the website, they give you a WhatApp Number to contact before you email them to confirm the trip.
combo	I thought that was very helpful to answer all the questions quickly and thoroughly.
combo	They have two websites, which confused me at first, but a quick email clarified that quickly.
combo	Once I booked the experience, Nelson assigned to me my driver, Bob John.
combo	The night before, he actually came by where I lived to make sure that he had the right house.
combo	I appreciated that greatly and it shows how professional Gorilla Trek Africa is.
combo	He even recommended that I meet him a little earlier based on where I was staying.
combo	He wanted to make sure that I arrived at the Volcano National Park on time.
combo	During the early morning ride, he made conversation with me and that calmed my nerves because we were the only ones in the car.
combo	Once we were there at the national park, he took care of all the paperwork and other logistics such as making sure my permit was in place, working with the rangers to place me in group, driving me to the starting point and explaining everything to me.
combo	I chose this tour group because of other reviews, and I'm glad to have had such a great experience."
combo	"My family of four (two adult daughters) just returned from a glorious 11 day Ugandan safari which included several National Park safaris and gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
combo	Nelson and his USA contact Bill, did all the planning for us and our guide, Bernard was absolutely amazing!!
combo	We visited Lake Mburo NP, Bwindi NP, Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison NP as well as the rhino sanctuary in Nakasongora.
combo	It's not easy to describe the awe and grandeur of viewing large animals up close or the breathtaking views from your Landcruiser of the rolling savannah.
combo	It's hard to play favorites but I will tell anyone making the effort to get to Uganda to be sure to include the Gorilla trekking-the experience was just beyond description.
combo	I must also mention that the lodges were all amazing!
combo	You can't go wrong with this great company and if you get Bernard as your guide you will be doubly blessed-enjoy!!!!"
combo	"As part of a larger African adventure, we had Gorilla Trekking on our bucket and decided to go through Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson handled all of our enquiries and facilitated our custom itinerary.
combo	Upon arrival, we were met by Julius our guide for the trip.
combo	He was outstanding, nothing ever an issue and was attentive to our every requirement.
combo	We opted to do 2 treks and although expensive (USD1500pp each trek) I would highly recommend doing 2 treks if your budget allows, we visited 2 different families on 2 different mountains (Isimbi group on Mt Karisimbi & Sabinyo Group on Mt Sabinyo) each group was so different as was the treks (not very strenuous nor any issues with mosquitos/other insects) the time with the gorillas was surreal and words or photos cannot ever do the experience justice, they are absolutely amazing creatures to be in the presence of.
combo	We stayed at the Gorilla Mountain view lodge which was just a short drive away, the rooms are rustic but cosy with an open fireplace lit every night, the staff are friendly & attentive with the cost being reasonable.Just go careful as the staff will go our of their way to look more helpful than they are actually being just to get a tip.
combo	For example after the trek they take tour boots and clean them whilst you have a complimentary foot massage and what they do is keep hold of your boots so later on when you ask for them thwy get bring them to your room and you feel obliged to tip, try not too as they do this so you give them it.
combo	They take either USD, card upon checkout or Rwandan Francs.
combo	Again I can't stress enough how great Julius @ Gorilla Trek Africa was and the experience overall, definitely the highlight of our trip."
combo	Great three-day trip with GTA’s Krish who was a good source of information about Rwanda and it’s neighbours.
combo	Our flight arrived just before midnight from Cape Town and smiling Krish was there to greet us.
combo	Next day’s trip to the Genocide Museum was very moving and worthwhile.
combo	We had a stunning drive up to the Volcanoes National Park area where we stayed for two nights - one day with gorillas and next with golden monkeys.
combo	Krish was a great and thoughtful guide GTA is a value for money operator in a crowded market.
combo	"We originally found Gorilla Trek Africa by reading great reviews on TripAdvisor.
combo	From the start of our trip planning to the end of our tour, we felt like we were in extremely capable, caring hands with our awesome Guide, Elvis Mandela, and our equally awesome trip planner, Nelson.
combo	Their company is run like a family, not an impersonal business.
combo	They were attentive, responsive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond our expectations to make sure we had an outstanding and safe visit to Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	The trip experience itself (Gorilla Treks and Safaris) was absolutely unforgettable!!"
combo	"We had a wonderful experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our driver/guide Charles was very knowledgeable and gave us a good insight into Rwandan daily life, The gorilla trekking itself exceeded our expectations.
combo	To be so close to these remarkable animals was just awesome.
combo	We are taking with us very special memories.
combo	Thank you Charles, Nelson and team of Gorilla Trek"
combo	"The team at Gorilla Trek Africa was wonderful.
combo	They planned an excursion that fit our budget and timing, and they helped us book an extra night in a hotel when we had forgotten.
combo	Our guide, Erik, was outstanding - he clearly explained everything from the logistics of what we should expect each day down to cultural nuances, including the best ways to thank the staff and tipping etiquette.
combo	He was friendly, prompt and very knowledgeable.
combo	We would definitely recommend this team to friends, and we would gladly enlist their help when we return to Rwanda!"
combo	"Gorilla trek Africa exceeded all of our expectations.
combo	The trackers found where the gorillas were early in the morning before we started our hike.
combo	Our guides knew the individual gorillas, their names, and their personalities, and their language.
combo	The trackers managed to open up enough room through the dense foliage for us to be able to have a one hour up close and personal experience with the silverback, the young males and females, and their several offspring.
combo	They met every deliverable and more"
combo	"We had been wanting to go to Rwanda to see the gorillas for a few years.
combo	We chose Rwanda over Uganda due to the conservation efforts of the country.
combo	A trip like this costs a lot of money so we had to really plan it out.
combo	We have traveled all over the world and have been to Africa many times including Tanzania, Egypt, South Africa, Kenya and Botswana.
combo	In March 2019, from online research my husband, Chirag Amin, contacted the company, Gorilla Trek Africa, working with their senior consultant Nelson.
combo	Chirag asked them to create a luxury package as we were travelling without our children after many years.
combo	There were some things my husband wanted to do such as go to Congo while we were there.
combo	He threw out some ideas but wasn’t really guided one way or another to say whether some of those things are plausible.
combo	Eventually we had an itinerary.
combo	So comes July and we are ready to go, we confirmed multiple times that this was a luxury package as we were paying luxury package price.
combo	We packed everything on the list that was provided by the agency.
combo	We flew from Tampa to DC to Brussels to Kigali.
combo	Before we had even landed and started our trip we got an email from Nelson saying We previously told you that the balance can only be paid in in cash in > > new USD bills or by card/ bank not later than a week to the start of > the > tour.
combo	It is very disappointing to hear that you want to pay by card at > > this late hour.
combo	We weren’t sure why he was disappointed, I guess they want cash but we wanted to pay by card.
combo	It wasn’t even the cash/card issue it was the tone the email took as soon as he learned we were paying by card and we hadn’t even landed yet.
combo	I told my husband this does not sound good, so we managed to half the balance in cash and the other half by card not to make HIS disappointment worse.
combo	Night 2, we got to our first hotel which wasn’t bad but were told by multiple people it is a 3 star even for Rwanda.
combo	We figured we will address it later, let’s see how things go.
combo	The food was to be included in the package so we went for lunch.
combo	The menu was extensive and looked pretty good.
combo	I asked for a salad, they didn’t have lettuce.
combo	Fine, I asked for a sandwich, they didn’t have cheese.
combo	Fine, how about some pizza?
combo	Again no cheese.
combo	That narrowed the choices to soup and meat and rice.
combo	This wasn’t an issue as it was one of our first meals.
combo	However, by meal 3 we had eaten the same thing 3 times.
combo	The shower was slimy but the bed was comfortable.
combo	Our second day we went to go see chimpanzees before we were to leave for Goma/Congo.
combo	On our tour we met many people and told them about our plans and where we were staying in Goma.
combo	One of the gentle man was from Germany living in Kigali, a journalist that has traveled all over that area.
combo	Him and his companion as well as our driver advised us the hotel in Goma is maybe a 2 star.
combo	Our friend on the tour said you won’t be able to stay there, its barely $40 a night.
combo	Chirag contacted Nelson and expressed his concern, Nelson said he can change the hotel as there are other options but it will cost us 300$ USD to change it.
combo	First, a hotel that was 40$ a night was booked for a luxury package while another option was available and then we were charged $300 to change it!!
combo	Nelson’s email even said the hotel in Goma is just OK. We also expressed out concerns about the hotel we were currently staying at.
combo	In response, Nelson said our expectations and African reality were no matched.
combo	He further went on to say Once you lower your expectations, you will have a great trip experience just like what others always get I see you are just being so picky and complicated and this will compromise your trip experience.
combo	We asked for a luxury package, paid for a luxury package to not only receive sub par accommodations but unprofessional, rude and unacceptable customer service.
combo	We were asked to LOWER our expectations.
combo	This made Chirag upset as believe me we paid a lot of money for this trip.
combo	He told Nelson that this was upsetting in return Nelson said We are all human!
combo	Just the way you get pissed off, i as well can get pissed off!
combo	Let us not make an issue out of this We need to cooperate if we are to have a good trip, otherwise threats won't make any good for any of us You either enjoy your trip or ruin it, the ball is entirely in your hands So my over all review, if you want to pay luxury prices, then receive sub par accommodations and even worse treatment, book with this agency.
combo	We encountered many tourists that were staying at nice hotels so it has nothing to do with the African reality.
combo	This agency hopes that you are a naïve traveler and won’t know any better so they can charge for a luxury package but then treat you like crap once they get your money.
combo	Why book a hotel that $40 a night 2 stars and they say oh there is a better option, it will cost you $300 to change it.
combo	Why was booked to begin with?
combo	Chirag never gave Nelson a ceiling for the price of the package so he charged A LOT but delivered nothing and then HE was disappointed when we didn’t’ bring cash.
combo	The email excerpts are just the tip of the iceberg.
combo	He never apologized and even stopped contacting us to fix anything.
combo	And if you say anything they will get pissed off and cut off contact.
combo	This is highly unprofessional, so forget about the money, book with this agency if you want to be treated badly."
combo	"My family and I along with another family had a fantastic 9 day experience with Gorilla Trek.
combo	I had lived in Rwanda, as had the dad in the other family, from September of 1994 shortly following the genocide and this was our first trip back.
combo	We went to Akagera, spent a couple days in Cyangugu visiting Nyungwe National Forest and the chimps and then Volcanoes to visit the gorillas and golden monkeys.
combo	It was a brilliant trip largely thanks to our guide Ivan.
combo	Ivan was prepared, knowledgeable and flexible.
combo	Having spent almost a year in Rwanda I wanted to slightly adjust plans a couple times and Ivan worked with us.
combo	I can’t recommend Gorilla Trek and Ivan enough.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful country and Gorilla Trek and Ivan helped us make the most of it."
combo	"What a phenomenal experience.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa and our guide Elvis went above and beyond what we expected for our honeymoon and maiden voyage to Africa.
combo	When initially researching our trip we looked into more than a dozen companies but opted for Gorilla Trek after talking with Bill and Nelson and also reading other TripAdvisor reviews.
combo	Although they may not advertise as much as other companies or even have as glitzy of a website Gorilla Trek proved to be an amazing choice (and at a much lower cost than other companies).
combo	From the second our guide Elvis picked us up to the last-minute, out of the way trip to a market, he was the consummate professional and catered to all our needs (including our millions of questions).
combo	He knew just about everything there is to know about the culture, flora, fauna and people of East Africa.
combo	And he seemed to know just about everyone at each point along our journey from Kigali to Kampala.
combo	We felt so at ease the entire trip and really only needed to worry about getting up in time for breakfast - everything else was perfectly organized.
combo	Also we loved that the company invests in its guides - both before hiring them and then with continuing education.
combo	Because the tours and guides really can’t control the gorilla experience as that is fully controlled by the park and rangers, my advise would be to go with a trustworthy and knowledgeable company that’s locally based like Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	And make sure to ask for Elvis!"
combo	"We cannot say enough good things about gorilla trek Africa and our guide Elvis.
combo	We went to Rwanda and Uganda for our honeymoon - our 1st time to Africa.
combo	Bill and Nelson at gorilla trek helped us design our itinerary to create the perfect honeymoon.
combo	From the moment we were picked up by our guide Elvis - everything was taken care of - Elvis was incredibly professional but fun!
combo	He was so knowledge about the history, culture and politics of the region.
combo	He was able to identify and share information about every birds and animal species we saw - it added so much to the trip.
combo	He made us feel safe and at ease immediately.
combo	After 10 days wth Elvis we were genuinely sad to say goodbye.
combo	We are thrilled with our experience and have already started talking about our next trip using gorilla trek Africa - to Kenya and Tanzania!
combo	There are over 100 your companies to chose from but gorilla trek Africa was reliable, trustworthy, professional and knowledgeable.
combo	Elvis spoke so highly of the company - and what a “good person” his boss is - it speaks volumes about a company when the employees are happy.
combo	It’s a lot of money to pay upfront to a company you are unfamiliar with - but there’s a reason they have so many great reviews - they are a great company filled with great people."
combo	"My husband and I just returned from spending a month in East Africa.
combo	We used Gorilla Trek Africa this past June (2019) for a nine-day excursion through Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Our tour began in Kigali and ended at Entebbe Airport, Uganda.
combo	As part of our excursion, we scheduled treks to view the mountain gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda as well as viewing the golden monkeys, chimpanzees, tree lions and many other types of wildlife.
combo	The mountain gorilla treks were unbelievable in both countries and something we will never forget!
combo	Our excursion took us through Volcanoes, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Kibali National Parks.
combo	We traveled in a “safari” vehicle with the same driver/guide (William) for the entire trip.
combo	Everything from the accommodations, the scheduled excursions, and the travel times met our expectations.
combo	Our driver and guide, William, more than met our expectations.
combo	He was personable, always pleasant to speak with and a wealth of information about the local customs, topography, and wildlife.
combo	He did his best to not only provide us with sound advice about visiting various sites but also explained local traditions and answered all of our many questions.
combo	He was more than just a guide and driver, he was a valuable traveling companion that we so enjoyed spending time with.
combo	Prior to our trip, all of our many questions were promptly answered by Nelson of Gorilla Trek Africa as well as by Bill, the U.S. rep. We feel that we made a good choice when we booked this company for our first trip to Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	We would definitely use this company again & we would request William as our driver/guide."
combo	"We had an incredible 4 day trip to Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa that continuously went above and beyond my expectations.
combo	Our wonderful guide Julius picked up my husband and I in Kigali, Rwanda to begin our trip to Bwindi for gorilla trekking.
combo	Julius answered all our (constant) questions and provided a lot of thoughtful insight to both life in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	He pointed out great places for photos along the drive until we arrived at Bakiga Lodge, one of my favorite places I have ever stayed because of the non-profit's mission, the warm and friendly staff and the beautiful view of the forest.
combo	Our gorilla trek was a magical experience, facilitated by Julius setting us up with an excellent guide, we had an hour with perfect viewing that was unforgettable.
combo	In the afternoon we went on a community walk which I highly recommend as well.
combo	The next day we were off to Queen Elizabeth National Park where we had great luck viewing elephants wading in the Kazinga channel, hippos, crocodiles and buffalo.
combo	We stayed at Enganzi lodge which has a breathtaking view of Queen Elizabeth National Park and an infinity pool to enjoy it in.
combo	The next day Julius again paired us with an excellent guide for chimp trekking to end our trip and had us back to Kigali in time to get a restful night's sleep before our next flight.
combo	We really can't thank Julius enough for making our trip so perfect!
combo	He's the best!
combo	Thank you to Julius and Gorilla Trek Africa for an experience we will never forget."
combo	"My family of 4 had a three day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We were picked up from our hotel in Kigali, Rwanda and drove to Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge in Uganda, just south of Bwindi.
combo	Next day we went gorilla trekking in the morning in Bwindi and then drove to Da Vinci Lodge near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda where we did the golden monkey trek the following morning and then made it back in time to Kigali for our evening flight.
combo	Our guide John Bob, was fantastic as he was a very knowledgable about African history as a whole and was also very knowledgable about wildlife and geography, specifically about the formation of the rift valley.
combo	Upon our request, he even took us to visit the Kigali genocide museum on our first day before we took the road for Uganda and he fluently explained to us the history of what took place and what it means for the world going forward.
combo	Bob also surprised us by making a short video of our trip which he showed and sent to us on the second day.
combo	He took some videos of our trip and our actions and created a little video in which we were ""the characters in our own film"" and the gesture is something we will remember from the trip as his gift to us.
combo	One of our family members had been having a foot problem, so Bob was also able to arrange a very short hike for us in Bwindi which was very doable and we got to spend a great hour following around the gorillas.
combo	Seeing the golden monkeys was actually my personal highlight of the trip and I would recommend doing that as well.
combo	In booking the trip, Nelson was well organized and flexible in his ability to create an itinerary that matched exactly what we needed.
combo	Initially I was looking to do a longer trip in Uganda and he had a very nice itinerary planned out for me, but then when plans changed he was able to shorten it before we confirmed the booking.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa also offered very reasonable prices compared to other companies, especially foreign / non-local companies and I felt more comfortable traveling with a local company that specializes in the region anyways.
combo	Bill, the USA representative was also very helpful during the booking process as he was available for phone calls to give an idea of what the trip would look like and talk a little bit about his experiences when visiting Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Overall, I highly recommend this company for any travels to Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Great experience and I hope to go there again some day and see more of the country."
combo	"We spent 5 days in Rwanda.
combo	Our first day we toured Kigali, and visited the Genocide memorial.
combo	Over the next 3 days we went gorilla trekking, hiked to the Dian Fossey gravesite, and saw the golden monkeys.
combo	We stayed at the Five Volcanoes hotel, were the service was first class all the way.
combo	Geoffrie was a wonderful guide, and went out of his way to make the trip special.
combo	I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"A group of friends did a 5 day trip through Kibale, Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi and had a fantastic time.
combo	The trip logistics and lodging were great.
combo	Our guide, William, was always prompt, helpful and knowledgeable.
combo	A small warning - depending on which gorilla group you get sent to, you may have to do some strenuous hiking, so make sure you have some decent level of fitness.
combo	And the roads in the mountains of Uganda are not for the faint of heart.
combo	We had no issues other than getting stopped behind a stuck banana truck after a hard rain on one of the mountain roads.
combo	We were shortly on our way after the truck got dug out of the mud."
combo	"The one week my husband and I spent in Rwanda and Uganda was a highlight of our month long Africa trip.
combo	We hiked to an incredible gorilla family in Uganda -- complete with a one month old baby gorilla -- and got to explore Rwanda's Volcanoes Natl Park and Lake Kivu.
combo	The success of our trip is in large part due to our amazing Gorilla Trek Africa guide and driver, Chris Ngabirano.
combo	Chris is a kind and thoughtful man who spent six years habituating gorilla families (living with them, eating with them, all with the aim of studying them and making them comfortable around humans).
combo	He is still active in the conservationist community, participating in the gorilla census as well as other animal and flora counts.
combo	In addition to this work, he is the elected representative for his community (which borders Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where we gorilla trekked) and regularly speaks before parliament.
combo	Wherever we went, people seemed to know Chris (not to mention some of the gorillas in the park who still remember him from the habituation process).
combo	We enjoyed countless interesting and frank conversations with him during our private drives in the Gorilla Trek Africa 4x4, in the process learning so much about Rwandan and Ugandan culture.
combo	Chris’s own family history touches on both the highlights and lowlights of Rwanda’s recent history and hearing his stories was incredibly powerful.
combo	We thought we were coming to Rwanda and Uganda to simply see the gorillas but we left having a true cultural experience."
combo	"Thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa for organizing a wonderful week for us, traveling through Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Krish was an excellent tour guide - helpful, courteous, very organized and always looking out for us.
combo	Everything went to schedule and we had the best time!
combo	Gorillas, lions, elephants, what a wonderful place!
combo	Thanks also to Nelson for helping with the itinerary."
combo	"We had a most excellent time with Wiliam as our driver throughout Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	We saw chimpanzees and gorillas on two excursions!!!!
combo	If you've ever wanted to see gorillas in the wild, do it!
combo	The accommodations were amazing, William was kind and answered all of our questions.
combo	Booking was easy!"
combo	"It was an amazing 2-day trip at the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	My guide Joana was an excellent driver, knowledgeable and so accommodating.
combo	Thanks a lot Joana!
combo	Together with Nelson, Fidel and Theo you made this trip unforgettable for me.
combo	Stay well and keep on doing this wonderful job you do."
combo	"> I wanted to take this opportunity to share our wonderful experience in > Rwanda and Uganda with Asaph as our guide.
combo	From the moment he picked > us up in Rwanda I was impressed with his knowledge of every area we > traveled through, his desired to provide us with a memorable > experience and his ability to spot wildlife while still keeping an eye > out for ruts in the road.
combo	Asaph was always considerate of our need > and made some special arrangements for us when needed.
combo	> > Both Shelby and I felt quite safe and well cared for at all times.
combo	We > both felt like we have the best possible guide.
combo	> > Please share this with Asaph.
combo	> > _ROBERTA"
combo	"I can't say enough wonderful things about David and Charles (our guides with Gorilla Trek Africa ) and our overall experience with the company.
combo	Not only were they super experienced and knowledgeable about that area and timing process to cross the border and get around between Volcanoes National park in Rwanda to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda and the Impenetrable Forest National Park in between, but they were just fun and like friends that were a part of our group!
combo	In fact, I am sure we will remain friends and visit again in the future!
combo	Every day they showed up ON TIME and with an amazing attitude and they assisted us with everything from hiring porters and tour guides, to communicating with locals, visiting orphanages, donating our shoes and clothes we brought, exchanging money, going shopping...literally whatever we wished to do they made happen!
combo	I also have to mention that David is like ""the mayor of Rwanda ad Uganda"" !
combo	lol.
combo	He literally knew everyone wherever we went and was well respected.
combo	We felt so safe the entire time despite what the American media has to say, and I would highly recommend this trip to anyone as the trip of a lifetime and completely worth doing!"
combo	"We had an amazing time with my husband during our 10 days safari organised by Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	The booking process was really made easy by Nelson.
combo	He answered my multiple questions really promptly, usually within 24 hours, and was really easy to deal with.
combo	The safari itself was really well organised.
combo	The itinerary alternated well with walk/treks to see different primates (the golden monkeys, the amazing gorillas and the chimpanzees), game drives in the main national parks of Uganda and driving.
combo	The accomodations were of really high standards - even if we booked for budget accommodations the place where we stayed were never budget.
combo	It was very nice places, well located, with private cottages most of the time and superb views.
combo	The food was good with fresh local products.
combo	Our guide was really knowledgeable, a bit quiet at times, but doing his really best to show us as much wildlife as possible (we got to see lions 4 times during our trip, including tree climbing lions which was really amazing).
combo	He drove very safely as well and we never felt unsafe even on the very bad dusty roads.
combo	Overall, we chose Gorilla Trek Africa because of the great reviews on TripAdvisor and we definitely recommend to go with them."
combo	"I researched plenty of tour companies to book my trip to Rwanda with before settling on Gorilla Trek Africa due to the good reviews online and positive feedback and so glad I booked with them!
combo	My experience with Gorilla Trek Africa was outstanding, from the initial enquiry and booking via email where Nelson the manager was super responsive to all my questions, to the actual trip itself.
combo	My driver/guide Julius was very professional and was so keen to make sure I got the most out of my experience.
combo	The accommodation at Gorilla Solution lodge was also great and the Gorilla Trek itself of course the highlight!!
combo	Rwanda is so well organised and clean and the people so lovely, as a solo female traveller I couldn't have felt more comfortable.
combo	I can highly recommend using them and hope to make use of their services again!"
combo	"Nelson made planning the trip easy.
combo	He was always responsive to my questions, always with a day - usually much less.
combo	Krish was my driver/guide.
combo	He advocated for me at hotels and treks.
combo	He was a great and safe driver.
combo	He is funny.
combo	And we laughed a lot about cultural differences.
combo	If you are a solo female traveler-these two are great."
combo	"Wonderful experience from start to finish!
combo	We did a 7 night 8 day trip starting in Kigali Rwanda and then onto Uganda for Gorilla trekking and other amazing sights!
combo	Communication with Nelson was seamless.
combo	He was always prompt in answering any questions and helped us plan our vacation to our specifications.
combo	He even helped us after the completion of our trip when we were billed incorrectly for incidentals at one of the lodges!
combo	Thanks to our guide Bob who was friendly, knowledgeable and an extremely good driver ( especially on unpaved uneven narrow African dirt roads)!
combo	Bob went out of his way to welcome us to his home country and shared some of the local foods - such as Rolex ( veggie omelette wrapped in fried bread -very yummy) and sweet passion fruit on our way back to the airport.
combo	All our accommodations were outstanding - luxury in the middle of the Ugandan wilderness!
combo	We also enjoyed the food which was always prepared fresh and in no way were we ever worried or subjected to any travellers diarrhea!
combo	Everywhere we stayed we were welcome with the friendliest staff ( always with a warm towel to clean our hands and a cold fruit cocktail to quench our thirst) Although we had all the various vaccines and Malaria prophylaxis- there were hardly any bugs and I don’t even remember seeing 1 mosquito even in the thick lush rain forests!
combo	There were more insects as you neared the gorilla habitat but I still didn’t see mosquitos!
combo	There was 3 in our party - my husband ,myself and our 24 year old daughter.
combo	I paid for 3 people ( thinking we would be sharing a room with 2 double beds ) but somehow Gorilla Trek Africa was able to secure 2 rooms/ villas at each of our nightly stays which was a huge bonus !
combo	Seeing the gorillas was the highlight of our trip -we arranged for 2 different treks.
combo	Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was breathtakingly beautiful and the hikes although quite challenging in places were worth the views and finally the gorilla sightings!
combo	I do recommend hiring porters for your hike -for $15US -they help keep you from slipping on steep sometimes slipper slopes , carry your backpacks with lunches etc.
combo	Plus you will be helping the local community!
combo	Queen Elizabeth Park was also a treat especially seeing tree climbing lions!
combo	I never knew those existed before except in Tarzan movies!
combo	Our river cruise was fun and we got to see loads of elephants, buffalos and hippos!
combo	It was also interesting seeing some of the local cultures and entertainment - my daughter was enthralled by the local dancers -some quite extraordinary!
combo	My husband thought they should try out for World of Dance!
combo	I was feeling a little under the weather one afternoon and could not make the cultural walk that my husband and daughter did but they raved about their experience with the Pygmys!
combo	Apparently they put on quite a show just for the 2 of them -telling their story through song and dance and actions and made fire from rubbing a stick on a stone!
combo	They also visited a local school which was quite moving.
combo	I would not hesitate to recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone wanting to book an adventure of a lifetime !
combo	Thanks again for giving us such amazing memories!"
combo	"Doing the gorilla trek in Rwanda was on my bucket list for years and I finally made it happen thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	From start to finish, this was a seamless and outstanding experience.
combo	It all began with exceptional communication with Nelson.
combo	I had many questions and he always responded with a thorough answer in a timely manner.
combo	The 2-day gorilla trek began with my driver, Norman, picking me up in Kigali.
combo	I liked Norman right away.
combo	He was very polite and professional.
combo	I actually felt like I'd known him for years.
combo	The first day consisted of us touring Kigali and having a delicious lunch before heading towards Volcanoes National Park.
combo	I chose a budget accommodation and I can't tell you how pleased I was.
combo	I loved everything about the lodge(Gorilla Solution Lodge) and the staff provided me with excellent customer service.
combo	The next morning I did the trek!!!
combo	It was an experience I will never forget and I really appreciate the service everyone at Gorilla Trek Africa provided.
combo	To Nelson, Norman, and the rest of the staff...THANK YOU!!!
combo	Don't hesitate to book your tour with them."
combo	"This was certainly the trip of a lifetime.
combo	From the minute our expert driver/guide, Gavis, picked us up at our hotel in Kigali the adventure began.
combo	We spent 7 days traveling through rural Rwanda & Uganda visiting and staying in local villages.
combo	Lots of interaction with local people which was a great cultural experience.
combo	The golden monkey tracking was a lovely walk through the bamboo forest.
combo	We were able to get close and take many photos of those most unusual monkeys.
combo	The gorilla tracking in The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda was a phenomenal life's experience.
combo	The trek was challenging but when we reached the family of mountain gorillas we were within a few feet of them.
combo	Watching the playful young ones and observing the huge silverback within 8 ft. of us is an experience beyond words.
combo	Anyone who has the opportunity to do this in their lifetime should do it.
combo	It was then off to The Kibale National Forest in Uganda to track chimpanzees.
combo	Another incredible experience with an expert guide.
combo	Again, we were very close and took great photos.
combo	The beautiful, clean lodges, the helpful and friendly staff and meals were superb.
combo	Booking and planning this trip through Nelson, our trip coordinator in Kampala, Uganda through numerous emails worked out perfect.
combo	Every aspect of the trip went smooth and without any problems.
combo	Special recognition to our driver/guide, Gavis, should be noted.
combo	He kept us safe, well informed, educated us, made all park entrance arrangements, made local village visit attangements and was an absolute joy to spend the week with.
combo	Don't just think about booking this trip, JUST DO IT!"
combo	"Donna (76) and Georgie (72) just returned from Rwanda/ Uganda Africa on tour with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson put together an 11-day adventure suitable for our age and abilities.
combo	The itinerary and lodges he chose were ideal for us and far exceeded our expectations.
combo	We had a wonderful guide, Elvis, who was so kind and accommodating and who learned our interest and did all in his power to show us amazing things we wanted to see.
combo	Elvis has a nickname ""Encyclopedia Elvis"" and he lived up to it.
combo	He knew all about the history, flora, fauna and birds.
combo	Elvis had a wonderful rapport with the other guides and lodge staff and we felt so welcome in each and every place.
combo	He is an wonderful guide and driver.
combo	Elvis went out of his way to make us happy.
combo	Uganda is a gorgeous peaceful country with so much to see.
combo	We had 4 treks that we were very able to do, the highlight, of course, being the gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
combo	We were able to do the trek with the help of porters and rangers.
combo	The rangers put us on the easiest trek, due to our ages, and at Elvis's request.
combo	Everyone was so helpful.
combo	Uganda is undiscovered by Americans which won't last long.
combo	We met a few Americans, but many Europeans and Australians.
combo	The lodges we stayed in were very comfortable and the food was excellent.
combo	Service and cleanliness is unsurpassed at each lodge.
combo	Donna and I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Don't let age or disability stop you from this wonderful adventure.
combo	You can do it!"
combo	"I booked a 7 day safari with Gorilla Trek Africa and they did a great job.
combo	My personal guide Azariah Kameraho really made the trip extra special.
combo	He was incredibly friendly, very knowledgeable about the wildlife areas and was very attentive.
combo	He really added a lot to the trip.
combo	The Safaris were excellent, in Kibale Park we tracked Chimpanzees, in Queen Elizabeth Park we did a game drive and saw lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, waterbuck antelope, and lots of birds.
combo	For the finale we tracked mountain gorillas in Bwindi over two days.
combo	Incredible experience over all and great service.
combo	Thank you Azariah and Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"We just returned from 5 day gorilla, chimpanzee, golden monkey trek in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	First, emailing with Nelson was outstanding: he made suggestions with pricing options, reassured me that three women traveling alone with their guide was safe, always responded in a timely manner, and generally was extremely helpful.
combo	We chose the budget option (we had one upgrade!
combo	and were very happy with the choices.
combo	Second, our guide/driver was Arafat.
combo	The top three reasons Arafat was a great guide: 1.
combo	Arafat was completely professional as a driver & tour guide with excellent English.
combo	When we discovered we were missing a passport at the Uganda border, he arranged for a driver to get it with us..no worries.
combo	Our drive was comfortable (water, bathroom breaks, stretch your legs).
combo	2.
combo	Professionalism may be the best reason to travel with Arafat, but he's also very kind.
combo	We had a few extra soccer balls that my daughters had brought and gave one to a little four year old local girl and her siblings.
combo	We would've left it at that, but Arafat slowly followed them home in the land cruiser, as he said he didn't want anyone to take it away from her.
combo	He also said the children like to ""hi five"" tourists, which we did, and we were all smiling... 3.
combo	Arafat was fun to have at breakfast and/or dinner when he was available, as he told us stories about other trips he taken, some very funny &/or inspiring stories, insight into his family in Uganda and could explain what to expect for the next day.
combo	Great trip"
combo	"This really is a fantastic tour and allows you to see and experience so much it really is sensory overload!
combo	Nelson was great with helping me to put my itinerary together and answering any questions I had.
combo	My driver Asaph is a true gentleman - he always made sure I was ok, had enough water, was fun, knowledgeable and understood when I just needed quiet time to take in all the incredible scenery and village life on the long drives.
combo	Asaph was great company, I really enjoyed talking with him about Ugandan/Rwandan history, culture, traditions politics and talking about our families and daily lives.
combo	He is also an excellent driver and I always felt very safe.
combo	Nothing was too much trouble for Asaph and he always had great tips and suggestions.
combo	Seeing the chimps in Kibale and the gorillas in Bwindi will stay with me forever.
combo	I still get emotional when I speak about it to people now I'm back home.
combo	It truly it's an amazing experience and I hope to do it again some day.
combo	I spent the majority of my time in Uganda and it really is a stunning country.
combo	The national parks and lakes are a little slice of paradise and absolutely teeming with wildlife - it totally blew my mind!
combo	I enjoyed all the different accommodation that was booked for me and the hospitality and welcome I received was always second to none.
combo	Thanks Asaph & Nelson and the rest of the Gorilla Trek Africa team :)"
combo	"Our wonderful guide, Fred, picked us up at the Kigali airport and proceeded to Uganda.
combo	Fred told us that Uganda is the Pearl of Africa and he was right.
combo	We had a long drive to the Crater Lodge and then went the next day to the Chimp trek.
combo	Great experience as we dashed along next to a large male chimp.
combo	The next day we drove to Queen Elizabeth park and saw lions up in a tree.
combo	Great time.
combo	Fred then drove us to Bwindi Imenetrable Forest for our awesome gorilla trek.
combo	Hiking in the forest as the leader used a machete to cut the path was daunting but exhilarating.
combo	We spent time with the silverback and his troupe.
combo	We were caught in a downpour and slipped and slid our way back to civilization.
combo	Our last night was spent back in Rwanda at the Volcano National park where we saw the cute little golden monkeys.
combo	On our way back to the airport we stopped at the Genocide memorial.
combo	The trip was perfectly planned by GTA and we felt super lucky to have Fred as our guide.
combo	We also felt safe and comfortable with him.
combo	Great guy."
combo	"We had a wonderful 5 day safari in Rwanda with Enos as our guide.
combo	He was consistently kind, considerate and a soft spoken philosopher.
combo	We loved Rwanda and Enos added to the wonder of our trip.
combo	We cannot recommend Rwanda, your company or Enos highly enough.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"I don't think I can put into words just how incredible this trip was.
combo	Elias was my guide and from start to end my trip was perfect.
combo	I went on this trip as a solo female and never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
combo	Elias was beyond amazing.
combo	He was so knowledgeable and kind and I learned so much from him.
combo	It was amazing to learn his story and learn so much about the places I was visiting.
combo	Every lodge I stayed at was beautiful, peaceful, and serene.
combo	I think it's important to realize that what westerners are accustomed to in terms of ""star ratings"" is not the same in Sub-Saharan Africa.
combo	That said, what the lodge's lacked in amenities they made up for in service and overall ambiance.
combo	I went on this trip during low season and was pretty much the only guest at all of the lodges I stayed at.
combo	The service was the most hospitable i have ever encountered.
combo	Everyone was so nice and I wanted for nothing.
combo	At every lodge I was given the room of my choice and i was also pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food.
combo	One thing to remember is to bring US Dollars in small bills.
combo	I made the mistake of having $100's and $50's and getting change was definitely an issue.
combo	Also, make sure that the money you bring is printed after 2006; otherwise it may not be accepted.
combo	All of the activities I did were amazing, but the mountain gorillas and chimpanzees were definitely my favorite.
combo	Both of these animals are so human-like; it was an honor to be in their presence.
combo	Additionally, all of the guides/rangers were so kind and also very knowledgeable.
combo	I also recommend getting a porter.
combo	It's only $15 and really does go a long way in supporting these people and their communities.
combo	They are also super helpful when the terrain is muddy and slippery!
combo	Thank you, Gorilla Trek Africa, for the trip of a lifetime.
combo	Elias- you were the most amazing guide and I am continually inspired by your generosity and spirit.
combo	I will 100% do this trip again one day and I hope I'm lucky enough to have you as my guide again!"
combo	My friend and I booked through gorilla trek for an overnight trip and it couldn’t have been better.
combo	Joana was our guide and she was such a knowledgeable and sweet person.
combo	Excellent driving skills.
combo	It was fascinating to tour the market (I’ve been to Kigali several times but had never been to the market) the hotel accommodations were great.
combo	Awesome food and gorgeous setting (we did the high end hotel option) seeing the gorillas was one of my top 3 life experiences.
combo	The guides were excellent.
combo	Can’t say enough about how well organized everything was and what a great experience it was to have Joana!
combo	Want to go back!
combo	Nelson at Gorilla Trek Africa was very responsive and made it easy to plan this first phase of our honeymoon.
combo	The cost was high but that’s a function of the gorilla permits in Rwanda and GTA was significantly less than other tour companies I reached out to.
combo	Sam Elliot was our guide/driver for 3 days.
combo	Very nice and informative.
combo	Arranged for some great gorilla treks for us.
combo	He also arranged for us to stay in our room until late since we were going directly to the airport from trekking.
combo	Highly recommend for easy planning in Rwanda.
combo	"I had the privilege of spending the weekend on a trip with Charles from Kigali, Rwanda to Bwindi, Uganda.
combo	Charles was an incredible tour guide who was very professional, kind, and made me feel right at home.
combo	Charles always made sure I was well fed, hydrated, and got the most out of my two day exploration by offering stops along the way.
combo	The trek itself was incredible, an absolute must do for anyone traveling in that area.
combo	We saw the gorillas after about 1.5 hours!
combo	I would love to relive the weekend over and over again!
combo	Before the trek, I had spend one night at L Mulehe safari lodge and it was wonderful.
combo	The food was great, workers were very kind, and the views were spectacular.
combo	I would highly recommend this experience to anyone!!
combo	Thank you thank you to Charles and the rest of the workers that made this all possible :)"
combo	"My sister and I went on a 4 day Rwanda-Uganda Double Gorilla Trekking tour and had the most amazing experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our drivers name was Enos (Salongo) and he looked after us as if we were his own family, made us feel so comfortable going above and beyond making our trip the best - he had a wealth of knowledge and was happy to share it with us delivering the information in such an intriguing manner!!
combo	As mentioned above we had 2 treks with the Gorillas in Uganda and it was worth every penny!
combo	Each day was a completely different experience following different gorilla family's and the latter day involving a full blown trek through the impenetrable Forest following the amazing creatures!!!
combo	The golden monkey tour in Rwanda was good too but nothing compared to the Gorilla Treks..could definitely skip if you had limited time!
combo	One tip to be aware of is to bring lots of $US for tipping as there is no where to get money out once in the Forest.
combo	Thanks again Enos and Gorilla Trek Africa we will never forget this experience!!!!"
combo	"We booked an 11 day trip directly with Gorilla Trek Africa based on a recommendation from a friend in the UK and booked flights separately (tip here if you need/want business class flights at a great price to this area it is hard to beat Ethiopian Airlines!).
combo	All the administration and suggestions for the trip were made with Nelson via email, all questions were answered quickly and efficiently.
combo	Booking direct is significantly cheaper than via say Trailfinders (who we have used on many holidays) but payment is a little clunky and payment of the deposit via credit card online is not easy and the currency conversion expensive.
combo	It is much easier to secure the holiday with the minimum deposit and then take USD in cash (which is what we did).
combo	Our guide/driver was William throughout, he was superb and is highly recommended for both his knowledge and personality (he is also a dedicated 'birder' for those who really want to know more about the 1,000 plus species in Uganda).
combo	Gorilla Trek offer 3 tiers and we went what was described as 'luxury' it has to be accepted that we probably had the best on offer but if you have experienced luxury in say Botswana then only the Miningo Lodge at Lake Mburo meets that standard (fantastic location small and very special) some others were (effectively hotels with ok food and just about ok accommodation) e.g.
combo	In Queen Elizabeth National Park the Mweya Safari Lodge is dated, the bedroom adequate but with a very poor bathroom.
combo	However and this really needs stressing the views over the Nile with game on the far bank more than compensates as does the opportunity for driving straight out into the park to see lion and many other animals or a boat trip to see an unbelievable variety of birds and animals up and close - just brilliant and a highlight of the trip, so suck up the indifferent accommodation, this is not to be missed!
combo	The viewings of the gorillas at Bwindi and chimps at Kimbali are what most go on this trip to see and it does not disappoint.
combo	Six feet from a 250k silver back or two feet from an alpha male chimp are memories to be savoured (these are not the recommended distances but if the animals come towards you then you do get much closer than the 7m stated) all the trackers/guides are expert and at no stage do you feel under any threat but even though habituated these are very powerful wild animals and they go where and when they want and yes they might push you out of the way (as happened to one person) but this is in no way threatening.
combo	The climb to see the gorillas is tough if you have any doubts about your ability to ascend + 500m of climb in very hot conditions through forest do take advantage of a porter to help you.
combo	We are of a certain age and have a lot of experience of high altitude trekking but were quite surprised how tough this was.
combo	The Chinese are in charge of redeveloping every major road in Uganda all at the same time - whilst this continues it is a major issue for road travel.
combo	Our circuit was just over 1,000 miles c. 60% on dirt roads/tracks and 40% on roads being developed or already tarmaced.
combo	Having spoken to other travellers everyone is surprised by just how much and how long the road travel is and how tough it is over poor surfaces (even in a Toyota Land Cruiser) on travel days 5-10 hours!
combo	A final point on the circuit (we went Lake Mburo and up the West side of the country finishing at Murchinson Falls (we would leave out the boat trip its too long at 3 hours and there is much more to see then later in the trip, but do go by road to the top of the falls a much better view) then drove all the way back down to Entebbe airport.
combo	We would strongly recommend going anti-clockwise, stop over night at Kampala as we did (close your eyes to the City and suck it up the lodge is good) and then travel North, that way you do not have as far to travel on the last leg and you stay at the best lodge on the last night.
combo	Overall a terrific trip and Gorilla Trek Africa are highly recommended but do take a keen interest in the itinerary and check out reviews for each location activity, we did not do enough of that.
combo	It can be a little hard core for the older traveller but worth every bump in the road!"
combo	"Had a great two day trek from Kigali, Rwanda to Bwindi National Forest, Uganda for gorilla tracking.
combo	Ivan was an awesome driver and, as a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and comfortable the entire time.
combo	Gorilla tracking at Bwindi was awesome!!!
combo	Incredible experience.
combo	Highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa - thank you to Nelson for such excellent coordination/planning!"
combo	"I could not have been happier with my Gorilla Trek Africa experience.
combo	Nelson did a wonderful job customizing our trip.
combo	We packed a lot of distance and experiences in our 10 day trip ( 3 travel days & seven touring).
combo	He was prompt and informative throughout our pretrip correspondence Alex was our guide for the entire trip.
combo	He has a gift for customer service.
combo	He was knowledgeable, resourceful and diligent to our requests.
combo	We had long days and he streamlined them for efficiency as much as possible.
combo	We commented we liked the local pepper, it had a nice tang to it.
combo	En route to one of our overnights he made a short detour so we could pick some up.
combo	Even better, he mailed our postcards home for us.
combo	We waited until the last full day to try and mail them.
combo	It was a national holiday so Alex took, bought the stamps and posted them.
combo	Thanks again Alex.
combo	These are just two examples of Alex’s above and beyond approach to his guiding.
combo	As for the trip we trekked for gorillas in Volcanos NP, Rwanda and the Impenetrable Forest NP, Uganda.
combo	Both were life changing hours.
combo	Not only because of the up close amazing gorilla viewing but you also get an idea of how hard people are working for conservation.
combo	The permit is more expensive in Rwanda but the hike is easier.
combo	I’d recommend hiring a porter for both trips.
combo	Trekking for chimpanzees is a little different.
combo	Chimpanzees cover large distances on a given day.
combo	There are no forward trackers that go out and locate the group.
combo	Guides and their charges (us) leave the check point and head out in different directions.
combo	Once the chimpanzees trail is picked up the guest groups converge.
combo	It’s a bit of a sprint through the jungle.
combo	We visited Queen Elizabeth NP where we did a game drive in one sector of the park and another on the kazinga channel.
combo	A boat game drive in the evening was rich with sightings and a nice way see the park and animals from a different perspective In the Kibale Forest NP we did another game drive, a interpretative walk through the wetlands and a visit to several village shop keepers.
combo	We visited with the basket weavers, banana beer brewer and the medicine man Our trip was an incredible experience meticulously orchestrated by Gorilla Trek Africa"
combo	"This was a great tour where we were picked up from the Kilagli airport and driven to Uganda for our gorilla trek.
combo	The drive was very powerful and our host guide answered many of my questions about both countries.
combo	The gorilla trek was more of a challenge than I expected given my lung issues and the elevation, but being vocal about my condition was enough to Initate Asaph to make sure I was on an easier trek.
combo	It still was quite the challenge.
combo	Though we came on this trip for the gorilla trekking, it was our host, the service, the people, and getting glimpses into the smaller towns that made our trip.
combo	I recommend this company for your gorilla trek but highly recommend you asking to Asaph as your tour host.
combo	He is the BEST!!!"
combo	"Honestly there aren’t words to describe how happy I was with my gorilla tour in Uganda with Gorilla Track Africa.
combo	Nelson and I emailed back and forth for a month or two planning my perfect trip to suit my needs, budget and dreams.
combo	I’ve never experienced such dedicated, prompt and kind attention to detail and responses and alterations in itinerary plans.
combo	Upon meeting my FABULOUS driver and guide Godwin in Kigali, Rwanda I could not have been happier about my choice of tour company.
combo	Godwin was professional, extremely kind, knowledgeable and took his time to make SO many picture stops and explained all questions I had.
combo	He drove extremely well in sometimes very difficult and challenging road conditions ( beginning of rainy season) and I felt very safe and secure at all times ( especially being a solo female traveler).
combo	My gorilla experience was out of this world amazing and I keep on reliving the moments daily.
combo	Just wanted to mention that after my tour ended I had a big problem in Kigali as I booked myself into a bad hotel in a strange neighborhood and got lost .
combo	Godwin came to help me and the company arranged a fantastic hotel for me for a final evening before flying out.
combo	Thank you a million and Godwin is seriously the most wonderful guide ever!
combo	I would suggest requesting him."
combo	"From start to finish my boyfriend and I had a great experience with this company!
combo	Nelson responded promptly to my inquiry and put together an itinerary on short notice.
combo	Our fabulous guide, Gavis, was friendly, professional, and a great driver.
combo	We very much enjoyed his conversation and company on the drive to and from Bwindi and during dinner at the Gorilla Safari Lodge (which we also highly recommend).
combo	Gavis ensured that everything went smoothly.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was an incredible experience and the service provided by Gavis ensured that it was a highlight of our time in Africa."
combo	"We used Gorilla Trek Africa on a trip to Rwanda and Uganda in March.
combo	Nelson and Bill (U.S. rep.) were extremely helpful and custom tailored a trip for the three at a great price.
combo	We were lucky enough to have a wonderful tour guide, Bernard.
combo	We can’t say enough about his attention to detail, willingness to listen to our needs, his safety consciousness, and professionalism.
combo	We had a great time conversing with him and learning about the people, culture, history, geography and animals.
combo	The safari vehicle was new and comfortable, and Bernard was an expert driving in traffic, rough roads as well as muddy narrow mountain roads.
combo	We based out of Kigali, Rwanda and traveled to Akagera National Park the first day.
combo	We took a boat trip on the lake and saw many animals.
combo	We stayed at Akagera Game Lodge (see our review).
combo	The next day was an all day safari to see more animals.
combo	Night at Akagera, then an all day drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
combo	We stayed at Bakiga Lodge (see review).
combo	We trekked to see the gorillas the next day.
combo	Took us an hour to find our gorilla family - absolutely amazing!
combo	That afternoon we visited the local town with tour guide Ruth (orphanage, pygmies, and local doctor), then another night at Bakiga.
combo	We enjoyed seeing the town, but wished that the orphanage and Pygmy “presentations” had been different- we felt we were intruding on their space.
combo	Our last day we drove back to Kigali.
combo	We highly recommend this tour company for any tour you want to take."
combo	"We were very impressed with the 3-day gorilla trek that Gorilla Trek Africa arranged for us.
combo	We were picked up from our guide, Gavis, in Kigali, Rwanda and he drove us to Uganda for our trek.
combo	Gavis was very welcoming and an excellent driver.
combo	He also stayed in our lodge and brought us back to Kigali at the end of our trek.
combo	The Gorilla Safari Lodge was a great place to stay.
combo	The staff, food, and accommodations were excellent - especially the massage I received from Rosemary.
combo	The trek itself was awesome.
combo	We had the choice to take the easy, medium, or hard trek.
combo	We chose the easy route, which was a 2-hour walk to the gorillas.
combo	I also hired a porter ($15, plus tip) which was a great decision.
combo	He helped me in the steeper, slippery spots and carried my backpack.
combo	I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson was always very prompt in responding to my many questions as we planned our trek."
combo	"Gorilla trek Africa organized a 2 say trip to Uganda to track the gorillas in Bwindi park for me and my partner.
combo	Our guide was Charles and from the time he picked us up in Kigali we had a great experience.
combo	Charles was really nice and very professional, he explained everything and answered all of our questions.
combo	Our gorilla trek was beautiful and we had an amazing time.
combo	I highly recommend this company, they were very organized and took great care of us."
combo	"My wife and I just returned from a weeklong (8 day) trip to Rwanda and Uganda where we spent the majority of our visit with Gorilla Trek Africa on safari and tracking primates (Chimpanzees, Gorillas, and Golden Monkeys).
combo	First, some general comments about Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We’re experienced travelers and have grown accustomed to travel hiccups.
combo	That is why it’s so refreshing when you don’t encounter any.
combo	Traveling with Gorilla Trek Africa felt effortless.
combo	Nelson, our initial point of contact with the company, was responsive from the beginning and patient with our numerous questions and itinerary changes.
combo	He customized the safari and tracking experience to support our limited travel window so that we could see everything we wanted in just 8 days.
combo	Side note: people ask if it’s worth the time and effort for such a relatively short trip.
combo	Yes.
combo	While we spent long days in the car driving between locations, the team at Gorilla Trek Africa made sure we saw everything we could (understanding the wildlife is going to do its own thing).
combo	So you too can do everything you want to do in 8 or 9 days.
combo	If you have a few extra days the experience will just be all the better.
combo	For our trip, we started with a day and half on our own in Kigali, arranging a pickup with Gorilla Trek Africa to get from the airport to our hotel.
combo	Godwin picked us up and gave us a great introduction to the city as we made the 25-minute journey in.
combo	Our official itinerary with Gorilla Trek Africa involved crossing the border into Uganda so we could drive to Kibale National Park where we tracked chimpanzees.
combo	From there, we ventured to Queen Elizabeth National Park for several days of game drives in the northern and southern sectors, culminating with a stay in Ishasha where we hoped to see the famous fig-tree climbing lions.
combo	We didn’t, but that was not for a lack of trying.
combo	And our guide, Kenneth, more than made up for it by making sure we enjoyed beautiful game drives where we saw an Elephant, Hyena, and other wildlife.
combo	And we saw other lions in the northern sector, so not all was lost.
combo	Afterward, we drove to Bwindi for the main event: tracking gorillas.
combo	This is more special than any words you’ll ever read (perhaps with the exception of Dian Fossey’s “Gorillas of the Mist”), but suffice it to say everyone should venture to do this in their lifetime.
combo	From there, we returned to Rwanda where we stayed overnight at Volcanoes National Park before enjoying a morning with the Golden Monkeys.
combo	Now some comments about our guide: Kenneth Muhindi.
combo	If you’re booking a trip with Gorilla Trek Africa, ask for Kenneth and hope that he’s available.
combo	As a former ranger, Kenneth was extremely knowledgeable about the national parks in Uganda (he worked as a ranger in Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park).
combo	He’s also trained most of the rangers and knows almost everyone, which is helpful for getting hints about where the best wildlife sightings are happening.
combo	Kenneth also provided his own guidebooks of Rwanda and Uganda, which included history sections to help supplement our knowledge of the countries.
combo	He also had several books on Africa’s animals, which we read during our drives and ahead of the primate tracking.
combo	We enjoyed great conversations and felt safe with his driving on the roads.
combo	This last point is particularly important because driving in Africa is probably the most dangerous thing you can do, and Kenneth handled the car well and never made us feel uncomfortable.
combo	In fact, on our way from Bwindi back to Rwanda, we drove on some very muddy roads (it had just rained) near some steep embankments.
combo	Had it not been for Kenneth’s handling of the all-wheel drive vehicle we might have been stuck!
combo	We’re extremely grateful for the experience that Gorilla Trek Africa provided and Kenneth, in particular, delivered.
combo	When we come back to this part of Africa, we’ll certainly be making our arrangements through Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"As a solo female traveler, I spent a ton of time researching a safe and reputable company through which to book a solo East African adventure.
combo	I messaged a lot with Bill and Nelson initially and decided Gorilla Trek Africa was a very good option.
combo	They were very responsive during the planning stages right up to the last day when I had questions about my arrival.
combo	Gavis was my guide and he picked me up in a very nice Toyota safari SUV which he drove expertly through dense fog, innumerable potholes, mud, you name it.
combo	My lodges were great (I picked the deluxe option) at each stop and I was incredibly fortunate to see every bit of wildlife I came to Africa to see, despite traveling on the cusp of rainy season.
combo	Gavis went the extra mile to ensure I was comfortable during the drive and at each stop and helped me to communicate my dietary restrictions at each lodge.
combo	When he found out from other guides about animals I was hoping to see, he got me right front and center to be sure I could have a great view and get excellent pictures.
combo	I’d recommend this company to anybody looking to travel East Africa!"
combo	"After reading the positive reviews about Gorilla Trek Africa, I booked a 7 day, solo tour starting in Kigali, Rwanda and ending in Entebbe, Uganda.
combo	Nelson was wonderful to work with in organizing the perfect trip.
combo	Elvis was my guide for the 7 days and he made the experience even better than I expected!
combo	He is a real life encyclopedia (or shall I say google) I learned so much about the countries history, the flora and fauna and so much more!
combo	He went above and beyond and each day was better than the previous.
combo	Luck was on our side day as the gorillas were amazing, we saw the tree climbing lions in Ishasha - Queen E NP, and the Chimps were loud and magnificent.
combo	I really can't express what an amazing experience I had.
combo	This is a must do trip and Gorilla Trek, and Elvis, should be your company and guide!
combo	He told me that Winston Churchill named Uganda ""The Pearl of Africa"" but we re-named it ""The Pearl of the World!""
combo	thank you Nelson and Elvis.
combo	many blessings!"
combo	"I was travelling solo to Rwanda and booked a 3 day Gorilla trip into Uganda.
combo	Any queries I had before my trip were answered straight away (thank you Nelson), which gave me the confidence to book with them at their competitive rate.
combo	My driver Charles was wonderful, thoughtful, professional and a great companion over the 3 days (massive thanks Charles).The lodges I stayed in and people who run them are beautiful (pass on my thanks).
combo	I am still buzzing from this unique and incredible experience.
combo	My advice?
combo	Don't think it - just book it!
combo	You won't regret it."
combo	"We did a five day gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey tour across Uganda and Rwanda with Azariah and had a truly wonderful time from start to finish.
combo	The whole trip was expertly organised and we didn't have to worry about a thing from the moment Azariah picked us up from our hotel in Entebbe until we were dropped off at our hotel in Kigali.
combo	Our first stop was Kibale for chimpanzee trekking and since we were lucky enough to find them within about five minutes we got to spend nearly two hours with them, watching them go about their business of eating, climbing, playing and communicating with each other.
combo	An experience I'll hold dear for the rest of my life.
combo	The next stop was Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we had a game drive and saw loads of Kob, a variety of birds and other wildlife and some lions and elephants the following morning.
combo	Then it was off to Bwindi National Park for gorilla trekking.
combo	Again we were pretty lucky to find them within an hour so got to spend a good for with them.
combo	It was a good sized group with a gorgeous Silverback and a newborn that arrived that very morning - being witness to their attentiveness within the family and how they interact was another unforgettable and awe-inspiring memory that will be with me forever.
combo	We then crossed the border to Rwanda which could have been a really stressful experience has it not been for Azariah being with us.
combo	The final stretch of the tour was seeing the wonderfully unique and beautiful golden monkeys at Volcanoes National Park and then onwards to Kigali where the tour ended.
combo	We're so glad we chose Gorilla Trek Africa who made this adventure completely stress-free, enjoyable and memorable.
combo	And that has a lot to do with our friendly, knowledgeable and all round awesome guide, Azariah.
combo	Highly recommend."
combo	What a formidable trip with a marvelous Davis.
combo	Go there you enjoy everything is perfect and the lodge choose by them is what i whant.
combo	"My boyfriend and I had an incredible week in Rwanda/Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We did a 5 day trip and visited numerous parks.
combo	The chimp and gorilla tracking experiences were out of this world.
combo	Arafat, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable and a great person to lead us for the week.
combo	Highly recommend him!
combo	On top of that, it was easy to book this trip and we had the best time."
combo	"First of all, I would like to thanks to Azariah very much.
combo	He was my guide/driver on my 7 days Rwanda/Uganda safari and makes my experience very exceptional.
combo	I was travelling alone so he was also my companion and I feel really safe during whole my trip.
combo	There was one dissapointment in regards to change of my itinerary.
combo	I made booking of my safari in January - 1 month in advance.
combo	Nobody mention to me that all gorilla permits are usually sold already and GTA just trying to buy from other tour operators who bought all of them and did not find customers.
combo	In my case they were not able to find any free slot for gorilla trek in Bwindi as per my itinerary so they had to change to Mgahinga park.
combo	I was quite dissapointed as nobody told me this possibility in advance and I really wanted to see gorillas in Bwindi.
combo	But I could not do anything so just take it as it was.
combo	I knew that there is just one gorilla family.
combo	At the end I seen 5 members of the Nyakagezi family(2 silverbacks,mother and baby a 1 juvenile).
combo	What was good is that I went from other side of the park and reach the family once other group of trekkers already left them so was just myself and rangers.
combo	I enjoyed time with them really much and my original disappointment was gone.
combo	Safari overall was great and I have to say it was one of the best experience in my life.
combo	I loved chimp trekking in Kibale too, for me it was comparable experience with gorillas.
combo	Then Kazinga channel was great too.
combo	So if you planning your safari don't miss these for sure."
combo	"Myself and two friends booked a seven day tour with Gorilla Trek that included activities in both Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	First of all, the communication with Nelson was excellent.
combo	Despite my numerous questions he always replied promptly and professionally.
combo	Next, the price for this tour was a great value.
combo	We opted for the luxury level accommodations and loved every place we stayed.
combo	Finally, our guide William, was so helpful and extremely competent.
combo	We felt that everything was always under control.
combo	I also appreciated the little extras he arranged like trying local food from street stands in Uganda.
combo	But most of all he was so patient with our hundreds of questions.
combo	While I had been to Rwanda previously this was my first time in Uganda so I was very curious about so many things.
combo	Our trip included Golden Monkeys, Gorillas, Chimps, a boat ride and two game drives.
combo	While we were exhausted by the end, we felt fortunate to have seen so much in one week.
combo	Definitely book your trip with Gorilla Trek!"
combo	"Two friends and I traveled to Rwanda and Uganda with our guides through Gorilla Trek.
combo	Nelson did and outstanding job designing an experience that covered five national parks in northern Rwanda and southern Uganda.
combo	We saw a wide variety of wildlife, (including the gorillas), ventured through three different rain forest environments and stayed in very nice lodges.
combo	The food was great, and our guide William, took us thru villages where we could experience Ugandan village life in an authentic way.
combo	He and his guide-in-training, Ellen, took great care of us.
combo	This was truly and experience of a lifetime and could not recommend Gorilla Trek more highly!"
combo	"Very easy company to work with.
combo	Nelson is on top of returning emails and makes it clear what the itinerary will be.
combo	My guide Aseph was very knowledgeable, friendly and committed to giving you a good experience.
combo	All the lodges and food were very good.
combo	I was able to see the mountain gorillas and chimps as well as lions, hippos, elephants and much more.
combo	Highly recommend."
combo	No words can explain the feelings..One of the best activity i ever did... Gorilla trekking is really great..seeing the endaged mountain gorillas at their home..what a great experience...
combo	"Saw the gorillas and the golden monkeys within a very short 2 days trip.
combo	Julius, the driver and concierge, is a huge factor for my enjoyment.
combo	During the long drive we were able to chit chat about the gorillas, the golden monkeys, Rwanda, Uganda, local food, customs and various other topics.
combo	Albert from the Gorilla Solutions Hotel was the most gracious host.
combo	I was the only guest that day.
combo	He showered all his attention on me to make sure I was well fed and perfectly comfortable.
combo	Really enjoyed the mataka and vegetable dish he prepared."
combo	"I found Gorilla Trek Africa online and proceeded to correspond with them for 8 day journey of several safaris including 2 gorilla treks.
combo	Our drive/guide Arafat, was really exceptional.
combo	Very experienced and never tired of the constant questions that we peppered him with.
combo	All the lodges that we were booked in, matched and exceeded our expectations.
combo	The southwest corner of Uganda is really amazingly beautiful.
combo	Very mountainous with great views at every turn.
combo	The roads can be a bit rough but the beauty makes up for it.
combo	Thank you for a wonderful trip."
combo	"We recently took a trip through Africa starting with gorilla tracking in Rwanda.
combo	From our first contact with Gorilla Trek Africa it was nothing but spectacular!
combo	What made it the most amazing was our guide Peter.
combo	He was so attentive and informative, we felt we were best friends in only 2 days!
combo	We had extra time before our flight to Kenya so he took us to a fantastic dinner and tour of Kigali.
combo	He explained the history of Rwanda and showed us beautiful sights.
combo	He really went above and beyond, not just a tour guide.
combo	We miss him!
combo	Just like all the other reviews, seeing gorillas up close and in nature is a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	I'm so grateful I was able to experience this adventure.
combo	There were other companies to choose from but I am so grateful I chose Gorilla Trek Africa otherwise I would not of met Peter."
combo	"I had wanted to see gorillas for quite a while.
combo	I usually go with organized tours, I am a single woman.
combo	I did not want to see just gorillas, but wanted to see other wildlife and experience Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	None of the tours I found were my ideal itinerary.
combo	I wanted 2 days of gorillas, and wanted to start with that experience, most tours do gorilla trek at the end of itinerary.
combo	I contacted a few local companies, and Nelson at GTA was very helpful and quick to respond.
combo	I have traveled quite a bit and felt comfortable booking with a local company.
combo	I paid deposit of 40%, and the balance was due either 1 week prior to trip or could pay cash the day of the tour!
combo	Most larger travel companies want full payment 60-90 days prior to trip, and full refund is not possible.
combo	So then travel insurance is recommended.
combo	Also, once I paid the balance, Nelson let me know that the cost of my itinerary was actually less, and so he refunded me almost 700 USD !!!
combo	What tour company does that?
combo	My guide Elvis, was fantastic also.
combo	He took good care of me, he always was on time for our next adventure, and I never felt uncomfortable.
combo	He heard me ask for yogurt at one of the lodges (they didn’t have it) and next day he bought some for me at a small market.
combo	I tried roasted plantains from vendors at side of the road, I even had lunch at a small cafe where it was only locals.
combo	He is very friendly, and always seemed to know everyone.
combo	Went Gorilla tracking at Bwindi, from 2 different locations.
combo	The trips were both 5 hours or so and difficult.
combo	It is called Impenetrable for a reason!
combo	I spoke with others and Virunga was much easier.
combo	Then Queen Elizabeth, very dry.
combo	Did see lions 2 days (though not in trees) Kazinga channel boat is highly recommended.
combo	Then on to Kibale NP to see chimps and other primates.
combo	Chimps were another great experience, and so much easier terrain.
combo	Got to experience crossing the Uganda/Rwanda border, very interesting......
combo	Overall great trip, exhausting but also exhilarating!"
combo	"No hesitation on giving 5 stars to the 2-day tour: - Most importantly, I saw what I wanted to see (and more than that!).
combo	The trip tracking the mountain gorillas was once-in-a-lifetime - baby gorillas, blackbacks and silverbacks were just in front of us!
combo	Other than gorillas, I could also see some local village culture and beautiful landscape in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The city tour also gave a good introduction of the history of Rwanda and the city life of Kigali.
combo	My guide was Eric.
combo	He was so knowledgeable and attentive.
combo	He introduced everything in detail so that I know much more about the countries.
combo	He also ensured a safe journey.
combo	The hotel accommodation was excellent.
combo	Friendly staff, comfortable room, good food.
combo	Yes, seeing gorillas may be a bit costly, but satisfaction guaranteed.
combo	Thumbs up!"
combo	"My travel group consisted of 3 middle aged women.
combo	We packed as much as we could in the 6 days we had in Rwanda and Uganda gorilla trekking in both countries and also seeing golden monkies and chimps.
combo	Our ever patient, always a gentleman guide was Alex Greck.
combo	I can't say enough about how informative he was .
combo	Our adventure started in Uganda trekking in Volcanos National Park.
combo	We met and were put in groups usually 8/group but we were lucky and had only 4 in our group.
combo	Our trek to find the HIRWA group was not as vigorous as we had expected.
combo	The dominant Silverback in our group was a 32 year old named Munyinya.
combo	He was a gentle grandpa with all the babies rolling and tumbling all over him.
combo	The group had 2 year old twins which is uncommon.
combo	There were two 5 year olds also whose mom's had left to join another group that Munyinya was in charge of.
combo	This practice is common and helps keep genetic diversity.
combo	There were also younger babies about 7 months old that we didn't see.
combo	We were able to quietly watch and photograph them like children on a playground.
combo	One of the 2 year old twins actually touched my knee and my heart before I moved away.
combo	One of the young gorillas grabbed my leg as it ran by.
combo	It was an amazing experience.
combo	We went on to trek in Uganda, Bwindi National Park a very different experience.
combo	The trek in Bwindi was much harder.
combo	The terrain is more rugged and hiking is much more difficult,made possible by the wooden poles they supply and the Porter you can rent for the day.
combo	I recommend a Porter to be with you in this very uncertain terrain.
combo	It took several hours to reach our gorilla group.
combo	They were moving through thick folage and much harder to view and photograph.
combo	Gorilla permits are much more expensive in Rawanda but worth it if you have to choose only 1 country.
combo	Our experience with Gorilla trek Africa and our guide Alex exceeded my expectations.
combo	We had a new Toyota Land cruiser with a pop up top for easy photography.
combo	Alex is a native Ugandan speaking perfect English and many native dialects.
combo	If we travel again with Gorillas reactivate, Alex will be our guide."
combo	"We took a five day tour through Uganda and Rwanda with gorilla trek Africa.
combo	The tour lived up to all our expectations - I won't go into too much detail about the tour itself as there are plenty of other reviews doing that here, except to say it's one of the best experiences I've had in some time.
combo	What I would like to focus on briefly though is our guide, Azariah.
combo	He always had our interests at heart, and was dedicated to making sure we enjoyed the experience as much as we possibly could.
combo	He was thoroughly professional and courteous throughout, always happy with a smile, and negotiating some of the trickier and bumpier roads like a pro.
combo	The gorillas and chimps are of course the main attraction, but with a guide like Azariah you can enjoy the entire experience to the max."
combo	"Wow.
combo	What a trip!
combo	We were originally thinking of seeing the Gorillas in more than one place and internet searches came up with DRC, Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The permits for DRC and Uganda are USD 500 whereas Rwanda was USD 1,500 so we discounted the latter.
combo	We couldn’t find any company that did a tour to both DRC and Uganda but did see Gorilla Trak Africa’s (GTA) name come up with a Uganda tour which started briefly in Rwanda.
combo	We then toyed with the idea of booking our own transfers to DRC (Virunga) and then connecting in Uganda with a tour company but we couldn’t find anyone.
combo	Our first contact with GTA was approximately 12 months in advance as we wanted to go over Christmas.
combo	Nelson replied by email detailing their 15 day tour.
combo	This looked good with the exception of the penultimate night having to stay in Kampala when the following day’s activity was in Jinja (2.5 hours drive away) which could be improved by staying in Jinja the night prior instead which was the same drive time on that day as going to Kampala.
combo	Nelson made the change to the itinerary and we paid our deposit using pesapal.
combo	Note: We were thinking for a while of trying to book the itinerary ourselves (to choose different accommodation options) and arranging private transfers between them but that proved to be more difficult than I thought so we decided to go with the GTA Luxury Accommodation 15 day tour.
combo	In retrospect, it would have been a bit of a disaster if we had booked each part individually as we underestimated the driving required between each location and would have been too tired to see half as much as what we did.
combo	In addition, we would have then had to organise all of the morning and afternoon activities and would have probably been overcharged if independently booking them or not available.
combo	On arrival at Rwanda airport we were met by the fabulous William K with a big smile and a nice shiny clean 4wd.
combo	William is quietly spoken and a real gentleman.
combo	He’s a bit of a bird expert as well.
combo	I think he mentioned he was the President of some Ugandan bird society.
combo	That allowed me to say, “well obviously we would definitely see a Shoebill” in a joking fashion… and William looked concerned and said they are very rare and hard to find.
combo	But he knew what we wanted to see… Gorillas and a Shoebill and he would do his utmost to help us.
combo	We told William we were interested in seeing as much wildlife as possible in preference to cultural tours and William adjusted our tours to match.
combo	Every day works like clockwork.
combo	William suggests a time to start each day and we made sure that we would be ready to go.
combo	William was very knowledgeable and had eyes like a hawk to spot all of the wildlife.
combo	We would find ourselves nodding off in the 4wd whilst he was driving as we were completely confident in William’s driving.
combo	He was very safe and would never overtake unless he could clearly see all traffic coming towards him.
combo	If we had the need for an urgent comfort break then William would find somewhere (petrol stations, cafes, banks… he always found somewhere).
combo	It wasn’t clear to us when booking with GTA what meals were included but all meals (B,L,D) were included.
combo	Drinks are extra but cheap.
combo	We took 3 boxes of health food bars each and this was a good idea for when we got hungry between meals.
combo	All that exercise made us hungry!
combo	If we think back to everything we have seen and the seamless way that our tour went we have to pinch ourselves.
combo	The amount of wildlife and experiences were incredible.
combo	William was excellent too and as for finding Gorillas and Shoebill, well… read on Day 1: Pickup at Rwanda airport, lunch, Genocide museum and transfer to Five Volcanoes Hotel.
combo	There are a large number of the magnificent golden weaver birds making nests in the hotel grounds.
combo	We also went for a walk with the hotel guide to the local villages (the kids are great and want you to take their photo and then show it to them on your camera screen).
combo	Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking.
combo	The fabulous (cheeks like a squirrel) fast moving golden monkeys hide behind the bamboo shoots and are hard to photograph but so cute.
combo	That golden bristling brow on their head.
combo	Then drive over border to Uganda and onto Lake Bunyonyi Birdnest Resort.
combo	William was scouring intently for a Shoebill but no luck and to be fair, the hotel said they hadn’t seen one for years.
combo	Day 3: Serene boat trip to Batwa Pygmy village.
combo	There were some grey crowned cranes (Uganda’s National Bird and in the middle of their flag) in the trees.
combo	On arrival, the kids rush to meet you.
combo	The Batwa Pygmies are very poor, having been displaced from the Bwindi National Park by the Govt.
combo	We brought 3 Chelsea football club flags as a gift and wish we had brought more.
combo	If we had known in advance we would have brought books for the kids.
combo	They asked if we had some.
combo	Great dancing and singing with my improvised words used... “Manchester… very good… Chelsea is… Bett-Ahh”.
combo	We also donated USD 50.
combo	Back to the hotel for lunch and photographing lots of birds in the gardens.
combo	Day 4: Drive to Mahogany Springs hotel, Bwindi National Forest.
combo	A black and white Colobus Monkey and Blue Monkey beside the road.
combo	Filled in the forms on the chair at reception and the hotel cat promptly sat on our lap and started purring.
combo	Nice welcome.
combo	Photographing lots of birds in the gardens in the afternoon.
combo	Day 5: Gorilla trek day and very excited.
combo	Early morning Introduction at HQ with dancing from the local women’s group.
combo	30 minute drive to start for Habinyanja group of 17 including Silverback, Blackbacks and babies.
combo	We paid USD 25 for a porter to support the local community.
combo	15 min walk through the tea plantation and the Gorillas were waiting for us.
combo	Amazing experience.
combo	Just amazing.
combo	You get 1 hour with the Gorillas.
combo	Afternoon walk to the Waterfalls (extra cost) with no wildlife until we almost got back to the HQ just before sunset and there were a group of L’Hoest monkeys and a shy red Duiker deer.
combo	Day 6: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	Vervet monkies, Fish Eagles and other birds, Warthogs kneeling whilst eating grass, Kob deer.
combo	Lunch at a local hotel with a troop of baboons in the grounds.
combo	After lunch, we saw in the distance one of the famous Ishahsa tree climbing lions lounging in a tree.
combo	Elephants, warthogs, buffalos.
combo	Later, a group of lions lounging in a tree at Queen Elizabeth National Park too.
combo	A short delay whilst 30 mins from Mweya Safari lodge as elephants crossing the road.
combo	Awesome.
combo	We would recommend paying extra to GTA to upgrade to the luxury tent room at Mweya Safari Lodge.
combo	Day 7: Sunrise game drive.
combo	Antelopes sparring.
combo	Buffalos, grey crowned cranes.
combo	Hippos lounging in the mud.
combo	Elephants.
combo	Lunch and then amazing cruise on Kazinga channel.
combo	Hippos everywhere, water buffalo (one with 2 birds on its horns), hundreds of birds including the fantastic prancing marabou storks with their pink hanging sacks digesting toxic food.
combo	Wow!
combo	Day 8: Morning game drive and got very close to a leopard lounging in a cactus.
combo	Drove slightly out of the way to the Equator Monument and then on to Mihingo Lodge.
combo	Zebra at the entrance.
combo	After lunch, we went to the Lodge’s “hide” to get close to zebras, warthogs and mongoose.
combo	Before dinner the hotel feeds banana to a big-eyed bushbaby which likes to visit.
combo	Day 9: Morning game drive with antelopes (Topi on a mound), warthog, zebras, Rothschild’s giraffe.
combo	Boat cruise on the lake but no Shoebill sighting… sigh, but we did see Hippos, Fish eagles and crocodiles Day 10: Saw big horned cow on leaving park on the drive to Crater Safari Lodge.
combo	Nature walk in the Bigodi wetland with variety of hornbills, red colobus, mangabey, blue headed Agama lizard Day 11: Chimpanzee trekking.
combo	At the trek HQ there was a fantastic group of red long tailed monkeys eating the berries in the trees.
combo	Such a cute blue bandit face with a white cotton nose.
combo	Awesome, you have to see them!
combo	A short hike to the Chimps and one hour with them.
combo	Some great behaviour and you can get very close.
combo	Day 12: Long drive to Paraa Safari Lodge in Murchsion Falls Park.
combo	We visited the falls on the way.
combo	Just missed the car ferry by 5 minutes but William knew the people running it and got them to take us across.
combo	Otherwise, we would have had to wait 2 hours.
combo	Day 13: Sunrise game drive.
combo	A spotted hyena ran across the road in front of the 4wd.
combo	Abyssinian Ground hornbills, warthog, antelopes, patas monkeys, buffalo, but still no Shoebill no matter how hard we tried to find one.
combo	Until, until… why is William laughing and smiling… what’s that on the mound over there?
combo	A SHOEBILL, oh my, oh my, magnificent!!!
combo	Also two lions in a tree, giraffe more patas monkies but who cares.
combo	We saw a SHOEBILL!
combo	Amazing, prehistoric looking bird.
combo	Afternoon boat trip to see the Murchsion falls with hippos, birds, crocodiles, elephants along the way.
combo	Day 14: Long drive to Jinja Nile Resort stopping at the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary.
combo	Saw five Rhinos including a baby Rhino suckling on the mother’s teat.
combo	Slurp, slurp, slurp.
combo	Got stopped on the road by a dodgy looking soldier wanting a bribe and William carefully dealt with the matter.
combo	Phew, thanks William.
combo	Loved the monkeys in the Resort’s grounds.
combo	Day 15: William met us at reception wearing the Chelsea shirt we had given him for Christmas.
combo	That made us smile.
combo	White water rafting day.
combo	The main “big fella” guy who runs the operation is the guide to get.
combo	They have plenty of extra safety members who come with you and we were thrown out of the raft and into the water with a less experienced guide.
combo	It felt a little scary being under the water in darkness for what felt like 10 seconds after the wind had been knocked out of us but when we surfaced the other guides were around us to help.
combo	We never received the photos the rafting company took but had taken a waterproof camera ourselves.
combo	Then a 3 hour drive to Entebbe airport where we sadly said goodbye to William.
combo	We got to really like William over our 2 week trip.
combo	From the morning greeting (the 3 movement Ugandan handshake) to him laughing politely at my bad jokes, along with his rugged determination to find a Shoebill.
combo	It was a sad, sad day to say goodbye.
combo	We gave him a healthy tip, saluted him and thanked him very, very much.
combo	Wow.
combo	What a trip!
combo	**One important point to note is if you are paying in USD cash in Uganda, older issued US notes will sometimes not be accepted.
combo	The dates that were acceptable changed from place to place but to be on the safe side it is best to take US dollars issued 2013 or later."
combo	"From the beginning of my contact with agent, Nelson, of Gorilla Trek Africa ltd, Kampala, Uganda, I was very satisfied with Nelson's quick reply by email in providing the facts and advise to me.
combo	Even though there is time differenve, I receied the response the same day or maybe latest the next day.
combo	Our guide, Alex, was a kind gentleman who had taken care of our needs carefully.
combo	Alex seemed to know everyone around the block everywhere we went.
combo	It made our travel somewhat easier especially at the park check points.
combo	The lodge accommadations were good and the staff were nice.
combo	All of the lodges we stayed were clean.
combo	Some lodges provided laundry for free but the tip was appreciated by the staff.
combo	Every time we had a trekking activity, the following lodge staff would clean our boots and gaters.
combo	All the time with trekking actiivity, the headquarters would provide a wooden cane for us.
combo	I did not use my hiking pole once.
combo	Alex was a good driver.
combo	There were many times the car was trapped in the mud tracks and Alex was able to get us out of the situation without us getting off the Land Cruiser.
combo	Thank goodness it was Land Cruiser.
combo	Alex took care of his car very well.
combo	We seemed to dirty the car every time we came back from the trekking but the next day, we had a clean vehicle to ride in.
combo	It was very thoughtful of Alex.
combo	The best lodge amongst the ones we were in was the Crater Safari Lodge.
combo	It is a besutiful lodge located on the hill side above a lake.
combo	The ever changing tropical weather with thunderstorm made the scenery even more stunning.
combo	It was like living in a paradise.
combo	We were lucky to be able to stay there for two nights.
combo	Some of the lodges offered the buffet dinner which I was not fond of it.
combo	Mweya Safari Lodge charged water bottles when we had lunch which was a surprise.
combo	We thought that was a mistake but apparently it was not.
combo	We had two gorilla trekking , one was in Volcano National Park, Rwanda and the other was in Bwindi impenetrable National Park.
combo	We chose two gorilla trekking activities because we wanted to experience both country's gorilla viewing.
combo	In Volcano National Park, Rwanda was slightly easier to hike and the group of gorilla, Hirwa was very tranquil, playful, and relaxed group.
combo	The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was little harder to hike and the hike was longer than the one in Rwanda.
combo	A good physical condition was a must.
combo	The gorilla group, Bweza, in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was somewhat scattered around the area.
combo	Maybe because it had three silverbacks in the group.
combo	We also had Chimpanzee trek which required a good physical fitness since chimpanzees walked very fast and we had to follow their pace.
combo	Hydration was very important.
combo	Bring at least two bottles of water on the trekking trail and drank water before sweating.
combo	The Edward Lake cruise safari is a must.
combo	We saw so many types of animals along the lake.
combo	It was two hour cruise and there was guide on the cruise providing the information for difference types of animals.
combo	Almost every night we had enough sleep except one night we arrived lodge very late since we had to be transferred from Rwanda to Uganda.
combo	The shortest night of sleep was the first night.
combo	We arrived Five to Five Hotel in Kigale, Rwanda around 8:45 PM.
combo	After we finished the dinner and refreshed ourselves, it was almost 11:00 PM We had to be ready the next morning by 4:30 AM for the first gorilla trekking adventure in Volcano National Park.
combo	Alex was very good in rearrange our itinerary so that we could have a better and longer sleeping time in the morning.
combo	Alex was very thoughtful for his clients.
combo	The bottomline was that we had an extraordinary adventure in Rwanda and Uganda and many thanks to Nelson and Alex made our journey possible and enjoyable.
combo	If I would come back for the gorilla trek I might just prefer on country since the travel time was quite long from Rwanda to Ugand on the dirt road.
combo	We had gotten a lots of ""African Massage"".
combo	Hahaha, that was so worlth it."
combo	"Trekked 3 days, led by guide Krish, who was phenomenal.
combo	Amazingly attentive to our needs and wishes — not just the during the driving (what skill and care!
combo	), trekking and lodging experiences, but also our accommodating our request to meet with some locals in the community to arrange a partnership for bringing in used clothes... What a goood heart this organization has!!
combo	Loved this experience, the whole thing.
combo	I couldn’t imagine feeling more cared for, or more comfortable as a first time visitor to Africa — let alone Rwanda and Uganda — or more blown away by the gorillas themselves!
combo	Amazing time.
combo	Can’t say enough good things about it."
combo	"I booked this trip somewhat at the last minute and Nelson was amazing and professional in putting the whole trip together per my request and needs and managing last minute changes.
combo	Everything was exactly as they arranged.
combo	Actually it was better.
combo	Our driver, Krish, went above and beyond the call of duty and he was always available for anything we needed.
combo	He spoke great English and his knowledge of the area made us feel secure and well taken care us.
combo	A wonderful human being.
combo	I will certainly use gorilla trek Africa again and even request Krish to be our driver/guide in future I highly recommend them!"
combo	"I spent 5 days and 4 nights with Josef and Gorilla Trek Africa as a solo adventure.
combo	Response Time - Extremely prompt.
combo	Nelson was great working with me to create my perfect and short itinerary.
combo	Car - Toyota 4x4.
combo	Driver - Josef - I can't recommend him highly enough.
combo	Spending 5 days in the car with most people could be challenging, but Josef was engaging, knowledgeable, and helpful.
combo	He was great on safari picking out animals while driving 40kph as well as walking around the Batwa village.
combo	He was punctual and professional and made my trip unforgettable.
combo	Hotels - I obviously checked them out before booking and they all got great reviews, but I can now vouch for them as well.
combo	They were beautiful with amazing service."
combo	"I did the three-day option (gorillas and golden monkeys on days 2 and 3, respectively).
combo	My guide, Godwin, was fantastic.
combo	He told me about the history of the country as we drove up to Volcanoes National Park and made sure that my experience each day was fantastic.
combo	I highly recommend booking a trip via GTA and working with Godwin if he's available!"
combo	"My brother and I did a 9 day safari with Gorilla Trek Africa in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Our driver and guide, Krish, was awesome.
combo	He was knowledgeable, friendly, reliable and always on time.
combo	He picked us up from Entebbe, and for the next 8 days we drove through Murchison, cruised the Nile, trekked with chimps and rhinos, spent two nights in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and of course hiked with the gorillas (from Uganda).
combo	Our last stop was Kigali.
combo	I can’t recommend Gorilla Trek Africa enough.
combo	They were professional and responsive in planning and executing the trip.
combo	Both my brother and I have been on many safaris before - and we know that getting a good driver/guide is critical to the experience.
combo	To that end, we asked Gorilla Trek to match us with their best driver.
combo	His name was Krish - and it’s hard to overstate how brilliant and dependable he was.
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek, and thank you especially Krish, for making this such a truly unforgettable experience."
combo	"Had an absolutely fantastic time with this company.
combo	From pick up in Entebbe to drop off in Kigali, everything went seamlessly.
combo	We appreciated the chance to create our own itinerary.
combo	Dealing with Nelson over email was easy, and our guide/driver Krish was excellent.
combo	Highly recommend this company if you’d like to visit uganda in comfort and safety!"
combo	"Have been to Rwanda a number of times but could not go for Gorilla Trek.
combo	In February 2012 (to be precise on February 22) during lunch meeting one of the friends suggested me to go for Gorilla Trek since next day was not very busy and work can be attended to in the evening.
combo	On the spur of the moment, it was decided that I am going to Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking.
combo	Rwanda is one of the most efficient and visitors friendly country.
combo	Colleague of the friend phoned the relevant office for 'Gorilla Permit' and we went in 30 minutes and the permit was ready, paid for it and all set for next day drive to the Park.
combo	The gentleman who was taking me to the park got delayed and we reached the Park a bit late.
combo	All groups had left and I was accompanied by a guard and another staff and the journey to meet the gorilla family commenced after 1100 hours.
combo	Slippery, uneven surface, itching bushes, cure also available side by side for skin itch from touching a bush..... arduous trek....
combo	lo and behold....it is worth it, worth every step to the Gorillas.
combo	After over 2 hours walk reached a family of Gorillas, guide had given instructions on Do's and Don'ts.
combo	But, once we were there, the same guard once noticed that baby gorilla was coming too close and was comfortable near me, said relax and enjoy, Mother Gorilla came to me, touched me and went to other side of the tree where the baby gorilla was eating leaves...
combo	The head of the family was busy munching tree bark at not a very far distant.
combo	The photo attached to this review was taken with Mother Gorilla sitting within a few feet of me.
combo	Love every moment of the trip and will go again with family pretty soon.
combo	There is a window of opportunity in August 2019 and I am going to be there.
combo	Rwanda, here I come!"
combo	"Photos and words do not do justice to the experience gained by spending time just a few feet from these magnificent and endangered Mountain Gorillas.
combo	Yes its expensive, but when you see where the money going, its the best money you can spend.
combo	You gain a lifetime highlight, you help preserve these magnificent animals and you support the unbelievable growth and development of the wonderful country that is Rwanda."
combo	"So impressed with this trip.
combo	Nelson is incredibly knowledgeable, knows very well the rangers that actually set up the visit.
combo	When you get to the volcano base, there are 8 groups.
combo	Nelson and our amazing, funny, nice driver Godwin ensured we saw the best gorilla family.
combo	We saw 30+ gorillas, multiple silver backs, multiple babies, the least shy gorillas.
combo	We had a great car.
combo	We chose to stay in rwanda and left at 4:30 am and we’re back by 2pm.
combo	Home run.
combo	Very professional.
combo	Great company!!!
combo	10 stars."
combo	"We had the pleasure of having Joanna as our Kilgali city guide and driver out to Volcanoes National Park.
combo	She was very professional, polite, and friendly.
combo	Nelson helped my husband during the booking process and kindly answered all of our questions.
combo	We were provided with water bottles everyday and Joanna did a great job navigating the roads.
combo	Joanna didn’t come with us on the actual trek but made sure it all went smoothly before and after.
combo	The gorilla trek itself was INCREDIBLE and unlike anything else we’ve ever done.
combo	The parks guides (we had Felician and Cally) and trackers are so knowledgeable about the gorilla families and behavior.
combo	They did a great job ensuring we got many great photo ops and ensuring the safety of both the tourists and the gorilla families.
combo	Don’t forget to put your camera down and just watch these amazing beings.
combo	It’s easy to get spend the time trying to get the perfect picture, but if you put your camera down and watch them vs seeing them through your camera lense you’re sure to be swept away by the glaring simularities between us and our very distant cousins!
combo	RECOMMENDED!"
combo	"I traveled to Kenya & Rwanda for work this past November and decided to take a few extra days to book a 1-day Gorilla Trek (2-day total) from Kigali.
combo	Despite feeling anxious about sending the full payment in advance through wire transfer, the reviews on Tripadvisor made me feel more confident.
combo	I decided to do it and am so happy with my decision.
combo	Nelson was incredibly responsive during this time and made my dates work with his team.
combo	Geoffrey was my guide and picked me up from my Airbnb in Kigali and drove me up to Bwindi National Park.
combo	Geoffery was knowledgable about both Rwanda and Uganda and ensured I was taken care of.
combo	I mentioned how I'd love to visit the Batwa people of Southern Uganda while in the area, but was sure I didn't have the time.
combo	Geoffrey managed to work his magic and got in contact with the Ruhija community, who offered me a Ruhija community walking tour upon arrival.
combo	While it was not the full experience of meeting Batwa people in their habitat, it was a very transformational experience doing the walking community tour and seeing how some of the Batwa lived.
combo	The Gorilla Trek itself the next day was something I will truly never forget.
combo	Our group (6 trekkers + 2 porters) managed to find a group of 12 mountain Gorillas (2 of which were Silverbacks) and trekked with them for an hour before returning to the main camp."
combo	"After countless hours of research I can say that my boyfriend and I were very happy with Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	We had some issues starting off our trip that got resolved very quickly and the owner even put in that extra effort to call and make sure we were enjoying our trip.
combo	Our driver was Krish Rashid and he really looked out for us and had our backs throughout the entire journey!
combo	any problems or concerns we had he was the first person to make sure we were happy, no questions asked.
combo	We are very happy we had him and he made the experience worth it.
combo	I would definitely recommend hiring him as your guide!
combo	Just things to note before booking: Be careful when booking your vehicle (from here or any company)!
combo	there is a BIG difference between pop up top and open roof.
combo	So when they say popup top/ open roof ask for photos of the exact vehicle you'll be taking.
combo	The open roof is just a sun roof that is not good game viewing and not the ""safari"" experience.
combo	Although the tour company was great the tour itself (which is a common route a lot of tours take) was very rough.
combo	We did a 4 night-5 day tour and it was very exhausting!
combo	I would recommend taking a flight from Entebbe to Kisoro and then having your guide pick you up.
combo	We spent 3 full days driving; The first day being picked up at 5 am and arriving at 6 pm to our hotel, the third day driving 12 hours to our next hotel and the 5th day 11 hours back.
combo	The activities (game drives, boat cruise, etc.
combo	aren't close together either they can take 2-3 hours to get to and then that's 2-3 hours getting back.
combo	Coming from the Serengeti, and having done multiple game drives, I personally thought the game drives here weren't worth doing, we drove for two hours in the park and didn't even see one animal (The main attraction in Uganda is obviously the Gorillas) The drive from QP to Bwindi is beautiful BUT it is so bumpy and took us 12 hours to get to my head was smacking the side of the jeep the entire time, it wasn't enjoyable.
combo	Also note that when going into Bwindi there isn't much to do outside the Gorilla trekking.
combo	We had talked to a lot of people who flew in and planned on staying a couple days after the gorillas and they found themselves getting planes back early so id say a 2 night in this area: first day arrive, next day gorilla trek and third day head else where.
combo	overall the Gorilla Trekking was amazing and you'll never regret this experience!!"
combo	"Right from the get go everything was above expectations.
combo	Nelson was great leading up to our arrival.
combo	He returned our messages same day.
combo	When we arrived in Rwanda Gavis took over.
combo	He arrived at our hotel when we arranged for.
combo	His Land Cruiser was spotless and extremely comfortable for the 4 hour journey to the Gorilla Safari Lodge in Uganda.
combo	Along the way Gavis provided us with great conversation and he’s extremely knowledgeable of both Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	What made the journey smooth is that he knew people along the whole journey, from the people at the border crossing, the lodge, to the police and park rangers at the national park.
combo	The lodge we chose, Gorilla Safari Lodge, had great people, food, service and location.
combo	I highly recommend staying there.
combo	The lodge is located on the edge of the forest and one day the gorillas came out to the perimeter where they could be seen.
combo	The trek into to the forest to see the gorillas is all handled by park guides and trackers.
combo	It’s extremely well organized and safe.
combo	They go above and beyond for you to feel safe and to make sure you see the gorillas.
combo	Luckily we only had to hike 20 mins to see them as the gorillas rested the night before near the perimeter.
combo	We were fully expecting to have to hike a few hours in order to see them.
combo	We got to see the gorillas feeding in the trees and on the ground, so there was lots of movement by the group of 10.
combo	I highly recommend going with Nelson, Gavis and the group at Gorilla Trek Africa to experience one of the rarest things on the planet to do."
combo	"We used Gorilla Trek Africa for a 3 day 2 night excursion.
combo	Krish was our driver guide.
combo	He was excellent, very knowledgeable.
combo	Together with his management, Nelson, they went out of their way to ensure we were comfortable and our requests were accommodated.
combo	We had excellent sightings of the gorillas in Bwindi impenetratable park in Uganda.
combo	We were lucky to have the gorillas move into a clearing where we were, such that we were only 2m from them.
combo	2 baby gorillas frolicked and wrestled with each other within a meter from us, while the Alpha silverback walked right past us well within touching distance.
combo	The mother and and babies then rallied around the Alpha in the clearing, creating a picture postcard perfect scene.
combo	Really moving and awe inspiring.
combo	Highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa who made sure all logistics and arrangements were done smoothly.
combo	Thanks to them, we had an extremely enjoyable trip!"
combo	"We chose Gorilla Trek Africa after reading the other reviews and we couldn't have been happier we did.
combo	We knew very little other than we had five days and we wanted to include a Gorilla Trek in Uganda and Nelson took it from there and developed an itinerary that surpassed our expectations.
combo	We were met at the hotel in the morning by our amazing driver, Asaph, and from the first minute we met him he exuded so much confidence and knowledge that we immediately felt safe and in great hands.
combo	He anticipated our needs, was flexible and adaptable to all our photo stop requests, seemed to know and be well liked by everyone wherever we happened to stop, and handled the driving and arrangements with total confidence which let us enjoy the trip to the fullest.
combo	Whatever we needed, he handled and if he thought something could be improved, he fixed it.
combo	I can not say enough about Asaph and Gorilla Trek.
combo	Our trip started in Kigali, then we headed north to Kibale to do Chimpanzee Treking, then on to Queen Elizabeth Park for an amazing river cruise and then we finished with Gorilla Treking in Bwindi.
combo	A great itinerary if you have five days.
combo	Crater Safari Lodge and Mweya Lodge were excellent."
combo	From the first enquiry at the early stages of planning.
combo	Nelson at Gorilla Trek was so very helpful and quick with responses and going back and forth planning our amazing trip.
combo	We were concerned about 2 ladies arriving in the middle of the night and he reassured us that we were in good hands and we were.
combo	Asaph was our amazing driver who took care of us and never left our sides through the entire trip.
combo	The schedule and experience was one that I would repeat and will be doing so with this same company as they made the trip so awesome.
combo	"Gorilla Trek was so easy to work with and very helpful from my initial inquiry throughout the tour.
combo	Godwin, my host, picked me up from the hotel at the appointed time.
combo	He even came the night before to orient me (but my flight was delayed and I missed him).
combo	He pointed out landmarks and areas of note on our drive and provided me with plenty of water.
combo	The trek itself was incredible and unforgettable.
combo	Truly no words will do it justice.
combo	Upon the completion of the trek (I just did one day), Godwin drove me to a place to eat lunch and back to my hotel.
combo	It was seamless and I felt in such good hands with him."
combo	"This was a very positive experience.
combo	I stayed in Kigali (Rwanda) and went overnight to Bwindi Jungle Lodge and from there, to see the gorillas, which was amazing.
combo	Arafat was a safe driver and a good guide; knowledgeable, respectful and helpful.
combo	Nelson was very helpful in planning this trip.
combo	Kind regards, Brian"
combo	"My wife Nicole and I couldn’t have been happier with the trip we booked with Gorilla Trek Africa - everything was absolutely amazing!
combo	We loved our 3 days in Rwanda and wish we had decided to spend even more time there as it is a beautiful country with so much to offer.
combo	Gavis picked us up at the airport and was a great tour guide.
combo	He welcomed us, explained the day since we arrived at 7am, and we were on our way.
combo	We had the pleasure of visiting both the Genocide Museum in the Parliament Building as well as the Genocide Memorial to learn more about the history of Rwanda…both are must stops to learn more about Rwanda.
combo	After the visit’s Gavis took us to a local restaurant called Afrika Bites, which served amazing local cuisine and was a welcome break from all the mzungu food we had been eating the week prior.
combo	Pro tip: be careful, the hot sauce is really hot!
combo	Gavis then took us to the Kimironko Market to check things out.
combo	He informed us this was a self-guided tour and told us what sections of the market were selling which items.
combo	We were a bit intimidated at first by the size of the market and the crowds, but it was a great experience.
combo	The vendors were eager to see us and make a sale, but not pushy in any way.
combo	We bought a bunch of gifts for our family and had a lot of fun…we probably could have done a better job negotiating though!
combo	There are several markets you can visit in Kigali, this is the only one we had time to visit so it’s hard to draw a comparison but we highly recommend this one if you only have time to visit one.
combo	After the day in Kigali we made our way to our hotel near Volcanoes National Forest, which was about a 3-hour drive.
combo	Gavis was a great driver through the winding hills, he asked questions about us, told us about Rwanda as we passed by anything interesting, was happy to answer any questions we had, and luckily had great taste in music :) Our two-night stay in Volcanoes National Park was at Bisate Lodge.
combo	We knew that it was going to be a great experience when we reviewed everything on-line, but even still, it shattered our expectations.
combo	Everything about Bisate was amazing - the staff, the food, and the grounds and room where unbelievable.
combo	It was worth every penny and we’ll be staying there again the next time we visit Rwanda.
combo	That night, Bisate arranged a private table for us for dinner to celebrate our 5-year anniversary, something they did not have to do but it was very special.
combo	The second day Gavis drove us from Bisate to the meeting area where all Gorilla Trekking begins.
combo	We watched a portion of a video on Rwanda that we later found out was Rwanda: The Royal Tour, where journalist Peter Greenberg is toured around Rwanda by President Paul Kigame who seems like an amazing person and president.
combo	It’s a really good special on Rwanda and we recommend anyone thinking about visiting Rwanda to watch this special.
combo	Once things were ready, we met our guide Patrick and headed to the area of the mountain where we’d start our hike.
combo	Patrick is one of the best guides and luckily for us a Warriors fan!
combo	We only had to hike for about 45 minutes up the mountain as the group of mountain gorillas we were tracking were not far away and happened to be in a clearing where it was very easy to see and move about them.
combo	Patrick was great for the hour we were there - he told us about the group, their habitat, how they interact which each other, and we learned how to say “Good Morning” and “No Problem” to them!
combo	It was an amazing experience - one of the best of our lives - and something we will never forget.
combo	Thanks Patrick!!
combo	Upon arriving back at the hotel, our boots, gators, and clothes were very muddy from the hike (pro tip: ditch the hiking boots and pack a pair of rubber boots).
combo	The staff took our boots and gators to clean them up and also did our laundry all free of charge.
combo	In the afternoon, we had a chance to plant trees on the grounds of Bisate (to help with their reforestation efforts) and also do a tour of the community nearby to the hotel with Aline.
combo	Aline is very active in the community and Bisate allows her to take every Friday off to go to the local school to help teach.
combo	We got to visit a few families and their local co-op where we bought some gifts.
combo	Unfortunately we didn’t have the opportunity to volunteer with Aline, but will definitely arrange this the next time we visit.
combo	We highly recommend this tour as it was an incredibly eye-opening, humbling experience and a great way to see the positive impact that ecotourism (and Bisate in particular) can have on the community.
combo	The next day we woke up early (against our better judgment) to do the Dian Fossey hike before our 8pm flight home.
combo	The hike was about 5.5 hours total round-trip (this was fairly fast according to our amazing guide, Francois) and was muddy and pretty tough in some spots.
combo	Definitely worth it to get to her grave, pay our respects, and see were she spent so much time in the mountains trying to protect and learn about the gorillas.
combo	After the hike, Gavis worked his magic and found us a quick place to stop to freshen up, get our boots cleaned and change clothes before the 3-hour drive to the airport.
combo	In closing, there is so much more of Rwanda that we want to see.
combo	We’re definitely coming back and will be using Gorilla Trek Africa and staying at Bisate again.
combo	Thanks Gavis-san, Nelson, Bill at Gorilla Trekking and the entire staff at Bisate for everything!
combo	It was an amazing experience that we will never forget!"
combo	"Wow!
combo	What an experience!
combo	What fun!
combo	Great organization!
combo	Wonderful guides!
combo	Top notch hotel.
combo	Nothing but praise for a fabulous experience in Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	From the very beginning, every step of the adventure was well organized such that my entire focus was on enjoying the experience.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa put us in Five Volcanoes Hotel who attend to your every need.
combo	Meals, wait staff, rooms, everything top notch.
combo	Attendants even assist in making sure your gators are on correctly before you leave and clean your boots upon your return...now that’s service!
combo	The tour itself begins in the staging area with coffee, hot chocolate and donuts, and a comprehensive video presentation.
combo	Then a brief presentation from experienced and knowledgeable guides.
combo	Then off to the mountain.
combo	Once there, a team of scouts, guides and porters guide you every step of the way up the mountain.
combo	An advance team of scouts assure success of finding the gorillas before you depart.
combo	Helpful porters accompany you carrying your packs and refreshments.
combo	Upon finding the gorillas, guides make sure you have a great view of the animals while insuring your safety with eyes on you constantly.
combo	Your time goes by quickly as you enjoy a once in a lifetime encounter with the docile giants of the Forest.
combo	A wonderful experience!
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for a 5 Star experience"
combo	"Two of us did a three day tour from Kigali into Uganda with the last day spent at Volcanoes National Park seeing the golden monkeys.
combo	We actually felt the experience of seeing the monkeys matched that of the gorillas!
combo	I was overwhelmed with choices of tour companies when planning the trip and concerned about being scammed or making a poor choice.
combo	We didn't.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa provided an excellent experience.
combo	We especially appreciated Nelson's extremely quick, clear and detailed communication as well as the outstanding driving of our guide Geoffrey."
combo	My recent trek into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was extraordinary.
combo	I saw not only amazing wildlife (yes two gorilla families) but got to meet one on one with local tribes.
combo	For me the cultural experience was equally enthralling as seeing the gorillas.
combo	I learned so much about the beautiful countries of Rwanda and Uganda thanks to our excellent guide Bob.
combo	Accommodations were lovely.
combo	Staff so gracious and welcoming.
combo	I would definitely do another trip with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Tried to post a few pics but loaded upside down!
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa is a wonderful company; Nelson answered numerous questions during the planning stage of this adventure.
combo	Thank you Nelson for being so patient.
combo	And our driver BOB was terrific.
combo	He picked us up at our hotel in Kigali promptly at 8:30.
combo	We were able to make a stop at the Genocide Museum (highly recommended) and then we continued our journey to Uganda and the Bwindi National Park.
combo	Bob is very knowledgeable about Rwandan history and about Ugandan culture.
combo	He was very flexible and was able to adjust our schedule to accommodate our needs.
combo	We stayed at the Gorilla Safari Hotel, which was just a few minutes from the entrance of the park.
combo	The accommodations were lovely, the people working there were very helpful and friendly.
combo	Our trekking experience was fantastic.
combo	Hiring a porter for just $15 is money well spent given that the terrain can be EXTREMELY steep, and trekking through the jungle can be tricky.
combo	Seeing the gorillas so close was an amazing experience!!!
combo	Highly recommend this company!"
combo	"We were a party of 4 arriving in Entebbe to embark on a trip of a lifetime, to see the gorillas.
combo	Everything was handled perfectly by Gorilla Trek Africa, Nelson along with our driver Arafat.
combo	Our hotel was aware that the following morning our driver would be picking us up at 7:30 and we would be off to begin our adventure.
combo	We stopped at the equator, lunch at a lovely restaurant, and toilet breaks as needed.
combo	The country is beautiful and Arafat answered all of our questions.
combo	Our accommodations we lovely near Bwindi National Forest.
combo	We eat had our own cabins, very large and beautifully appointed.
combo	I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and I also would like to say the people of Uganda were so polite, so kind and almost shy a bit.
combo	We had one vegan on our trip and the lodge was very kind to accommodate him.
combo	The trek to see the gorillas was very well organized with a party of 8 going out to see a specific family that has been habituated, meaning acclimated to humans.
combo	We spent nearly 2 hours with the gorillas, were very close and had the opportunity to sit with them.
combo	A thrill of a life time.
combo	An amazing time!!!"
combo	"I spent three days with Kris going from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda and back.
combo	He was absolutely brilliant, looked after me well and full of useful knowledge.
combo	The lodge they organised was beautiful.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was a special experience.
combo	Definitely recommend this company for your trek."
combo	"Not that it's a bad thing but I'd got used to seeing locals and enjoying great conversation and coffee so it was a bit of a shock to be herded in groups up the mountain.
combo	That being said it's extremely well organised and safe.
combo	Make sure you tip the guides and trackers.
combo	Personally I didn't need a porter and unless you're unfit you'll be just fine, but also don't take things you don't need because you'll be carrying it up the hills and mountains!"
combo	"I can't begin to describe how wonderful our 3 day gorilla trek experience with Gorilla Trek Africa was.
combo	After planning this trip for almost two years I was worried that maybe after all the planning and anticipation it would be almost anti-climatic, but it did not disappoint.
combo	Prior to even leaving the States we had extensive communication with Nelson who answered ""too many questions to even count"" with amazing patience, and timely, responsive emails.
combo	We must have driven him crazy, lol,but he was always friendly, professional, and seemed genuinely happy to hear from us.
combo	Our guide Gavis was delightful.
combo	He arrived exactly on time to pick us up at our hotel and then for the next three days showed and taught us so much, entertained us and made us fall in love with Rwanda and Uganda and HIM!!!
combo	He took us to authentic local restaurants, the Genocide and other museums and answered our millions of questions.
combo	He even quizzed us on what we had learned.
combo	Everywhere we went along our stops people seemed to know and be happy to see him, and welcomed us warmly.
combo	He knows his clientele very well and what the best options for them are in terms of trekking and activities.
combo	Obviously seeing the Silverbacks was a highlight and the purpose of the trip but there was so much more.
combo	Visiting a Batwa Village and the Pygmies that have been relocated outside Bwindi was another highlight not to be missed!
combo	We're hoping that we convinced Gavis to come to the U.S. to visit us so we can try to reciprocate!!"
combo	"We made contact many months ago with Nelson who ably put together an amazing adventure for us to experience some of the key sights in Rwanda, being eager to accommodate our various requests.
combo	Our wonderful guide Peter could not have done more for us, often going above and beyond to provide an excellent service.
combo	Prompt, well mannered and courteous, he gently answered all of our many questions and had extensive knowledge to share of life in Rwanda.
combo	We were blown away by the country, by the precious gorillas and the various activities organized for us.
combo	Can only highly recommend Gorilla Trek to all and sundry, but particularly Peter, the guide of the year!"
combo	"We recently returned from a trip with Gorilla Trek Africa to do gorilla trekking in Uganda and also to see the golden monkeys in Rwanda and I highly recommend using this company.
combo	During the planning stages I dealt with Nelson via email who was great about answering all of my questions and the company was quite flexible in terms of modifications I wanted to make to the initial itinerary – specifically staying at Ichumbi Lodge near Bwindi (it wasn’t one of the choices they had originally offered me).
combo	Nelson was able to make the change and it turned out to be a good move as Ichumbi was 5 minutes from the Bwindi Park gate where we had our permits for trekking (which means you can sleep in a little bit and get back in time to do a cultural walk in the local village before dinner).
combo	I had done a lot of research before our trip and could see that some hotels are quite far from the parks so my biggest piece of advice to anyone booking a gorilla trek is to first figure out what sector (there are 4 sectors if I remember correctly) you want to get your permits in and then look for the closet lodging possible.
combo	Almost everyone we met there didn't think to do this and had long drives on poor roads to and from trekking.
combo	One girl that we met who had booked with a different company and was staying at our hotel had permits for a sector that took 2-3 hours to drive to, then they were unlucky that the gorillas took a very long time to find and then had the long drive back.
combo	So, decide where you want to trek and where permits are available then decide on your accommodation.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa and Nelson can help you with all of that.
combo	Once we were there, our driver/guide was Douglas, who was a terrific guide.
combo	We enjoyed his good nature and sense of humor, and he was an excellent and safe driver.
combo	He also made the process of crossing the border easy (something I think would have been very confusing if were to have tried it on our own).
combo	We were incredibly pleased with Gorilla Trek Africa and all that they did to help us plan and book such an amazing trip."
combo	Amazing company Nelson the manager answered all of our questions online.
combo	Our driver Julius was wonderful polite informative very helpful.
combo	You could not as for a better guide.
combo	We wee provided a tour of Kigali and he took us to the Genocide Museum and then off to to the Bwindi Lodge.
combo	Wonderful experience
combo	"The Gorilla Trek we made in Uganda was one of the most remarkable vacations I've ever had.
combo	Every step of the way, from our orginal planning phase to the culmination of spending time with the Silverbacks, was professionally and helpfully handled.
combo	All of our questions were answered in a timely fashion, so that well before our trip we were able to plan what to pack and what to expect.
combo	Our driver, Gavis, was part of what made the trip so wonderful.
combo	He was friendly, fun, knowledgable, and helpful.
combo	His primary focus was to make sure we had the best possible experience, and he totally succeeded!
combo	He took us to some local restaurants that were off the beaten path and were delicious, prepared in the manner of typical Ugandan cooking.
combo	I highly recommend this trip and especially Gavis as a driver.
combo	It will be the most memorable trip you'll ever take!"
combo	"We traveled from Rwanda to Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa and highly recommend them!
combo	Julius was our guide and he was very attentive, answered all our questions and made us feel at home!
combo	He went above and beyond to make sure we had a successful gorilla trek!
combo	The accommodations were wonderful, and we enjoyed the two day excursion very much!"
combo	"It is very difficult to describe the experience of our 3 day gorilla trek with our guide from Gorilla Trek Africa, Gavis.
combo	Obviously our trek up the mountain to find our gorilla family and spend an hour watching them interact with us and each other was an absolutely amazing experience.
combo	But our talented guide made our journey there and back also extremely memorable.
combo	We enjoyed local food, learned a lot about the countries of Rwanda and Uganda, and had a chance to interact with the people of the Batwa village.
combo	Photos tell part of the story, but it is all the other little things that make an experience memorable.
combo	Our lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, and their staff were also fantastic.
combo	I don't think I could be more happy or satisfied with our trip.
combo	Nelson, from the office of Gorilla Trek Africa, Ltd. answered all of our (many) questions and gave us the confidence that we would have a fantastic experience.
combo	He was right!
combo	I highly recommend this trip!"
combo	I had an amazing time I will never forget going on this adventure.
combo	I would highly recommend to everyone!
combo	!
combo	We did a 4 person 15 day tour with GTA.
combo	I cannot recommend them highly enough.
combo	Right from the start Nelson was quick to respond to questions and happy to offer advice and listen to our requirements.
combo	William our guide was amazing with his knowledge and patience (and humour) and helped make this trip to be one of the most memorable in a lifetime of travelling.
combo	I don't believe that there could be a better company to travel with.
combo	We started in Uganda and finished at Volcanoes NP after visiting the Gorillas.
combo	The accommodation that Nelson suggested and advice on the itinerary were spot on.
combo	Thanks GTA we will be back.
combo	"We just returned from a third trip to Africa and must say that our experience with Norman as our guide in Kigali and in Volcanoes National Park was certainly a highlight for us.
combo	There are numerous companies which compete for business but, I must say that our experience with Gorilla Trek was outstanding in all respects.
combo	This was a trip that was in the making for over 22 months and Nelson made certain that all details were looked after in an expeditious and professional manner.
combo	Accommodation, attractions, and activities were all carefully selected and we were very satisfied in all aspects.
combo	The staff at 5 to 5 Hotel in Kigali and at Da Vinci Lodge in Volcanoes National Park were friendly and most accomodating.
combo	We opted for mid-range accommodation and were never disappointed.
combo	The Genocide Memorial has been well planned and offers a balanced perspective with respect to not only what happened in Rwanda but chronicles other atrocities which have happened throughout history.
combo	The Centre for the Arts as well as the central market were also interesting to see.
combo	Norman took us to Heaven, situated with a wonderful view of Kigali, to watch the sunset as we had a drink and dinner.
combo	This is also a gem in terms of value and service.
combo	Our Gorilla and Golden Monkey Treks were awesome, to say the least.
combo	The Park Rangers and the Trackers were most knowledgeable and informative.
combo	We spent time with 2 different family groups of Mountain Gorillas and each experience was unique.
combo	One may question the value of increasing the park permits to $1500 per person per day but, this money goes toward assisting the neighbouring villagers and toward land acquisition increasing park territory for the animals in addition to park maintenance and the provision of adequate ranger services.
combo	I can't say enough about how Nelson finalized our itinerary and provided us with Norman our guide, who was very knowledgeable and affable.
combo	We learned so much and, as a result, had a very rich experience.
combo	In fact, we'd like to have a return experience, perhaps in Uganda but one thing is for sure, that Gorilla Trek will be our operator/provider."
combo	"I've just returned from a month long trip to Africa which included 2 days of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
combo	Nelson at Gorilla Trek was awesome as I had many changes to my itinerary planning and couldn't decide what to do.
combo	I wanted to do a day in each country (Rwanda & Uganda) but finances dictated I just do the 2 days in Uganda.
combo	Bwindi was amazing and so beautiful and I was able to spend at least an hour with 2 different families each day (after long and hard hikes).
combo	I was traveling alone and I just have to say it was the first time I'd done a trip like this alone and it was made so much easier (and a LOT of fun) with my driver, Krish.
combo	He literally became my 'best friend' during those 3 days as we spent a LOT of time in the car driving around both countries.
combo	He was so informative and educational about the people and things to expect.
combo	I was pretty nervous about the border crossing into Uganda and didn't realize I had to get out of the car and walk alone for a little ways and then stand in a long line with the locals (who spoke no English).
combo	It was a piece of cake btw but my whole trip was MADE because of Krish.
combo	I has so much fun just driving through villages and learning about the people and ways of life, and the gorillas were pretty cool too.
combo	Gorilla Trek planned a GREAT itinerary and provided the PERFECT driver/guide.
combo	Honestly, looking back at my entire 3+ weeks in Africa my only regret is not tipping Krish more.
combo	I even left a few things in his car and he found them later and returned them to my hotel.
combo	Above and beyond!!
combo	Thank you Nelson, Gorilla Trek, and mostly Krish!!!"
combo	"General: We can gladly confirm the outstanding rating of Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Fred was most professional, very forthcoming and a pleasant company (We recommend having a coke or a a mango juice ready for him - he loves it and makes even better company with it haha) The trek: We had a 10 day trek starting in Kigali including a visit to the genocide memorial, the golden monkeys in the Volcanoe NP (ADORABLE!
combo	gorilla Trek in Bwindi NP (we were very lucky, hiked 20min only), game safaris in Queen Elizabeth NP and Murchison Falls NP and a Visit to the Rhino Sanctuary on the Way to Kampala.
combo	We also visited an orphanage school Little Angels within Bwindi NP.
combo	Very touching experience.
combo	We were glad to have had contact with locals and not being isolated tourist.
combo	We chose an average accommodation (instead of budged of luxury) and were pleasantly satisfied.
combo	But be aware: these 10 days were quite intensive.
combo	We were glad to have some rest after finishing.
combo	We had booked our own car after the guided trek, and were guided around Kampala by Fred to have all necessary stuff ready (Ugandan SIM Card, Food best forex etc.
combo	Way to go!"
combo	"I am so pleased that I chose Gorilla Trek Africa for our trip to Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	My travel buddy and myself (2 women) had a wonderful trip, thanks to Nelson & Bill (in the US), and of course our guide/driver Kenneth surpassed our expectations.
combo	Kenneth has so much knowledge, with his prior experience as a ranger, his contacts that helped us thru out the trip, and his masterful driving in the challenging terrain of Uganda, we couldn't have asked for more.
combo	We had so much fun.
combo	I too, like other reviewers was hesitant booking this trip online from the USA.
combo	I put faith in the many 5 star reviews before our trip, and I was not disappointed.
combo	The trip was a very physical trip, different from our prior trip to Kenya & Tanzania.
combo	The Golden Monkey trek, the Gorilla trek, the Chimpanzee trek and the Rhino trek were all fabulous and we saw the animals so close up.
combo	Don't let anyone tell you that the Gorilla trek is easy, it was the most challenging hiking I ever did, but it was worth it.
combo	The only thing we would have liked to have, prior to going to Africa, was a better guide for tipping all the various people that made our trip so nice.
combo	I wish I would have brought more money for tips.
combo	There was very little knowledge online for all of the different people you tip during your trip.
combo	Maybe Nelson can add a section of suggested tips for all of the kind people that help you.
combo	Again, I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, and doing your Gorilla trek in Uganda.
combo	Uganda has so much to offer, the people, the beauty, and of course the animals and birds!"
combo	"We booked a two night, three day tour with Gorilla Trek.
combo	I was a little nervous about the booking at first due to the online payment and being so unfamiliar with Rwanda and Uganda, but there was absolutely no need to be.
combo	Out driver, Gavis, was an absolute SUPER star.
combo	He collected us from our Kigali accom, and from the very first moments made us feel welcomed and incredibly well looked after.
combo	Plus, he was a wonderful source of information about everything we could ask about and more.
combo	Somehow he seems to know every person who works in and around the local tourism industry, which also helped us to feel safe and secure.
combo	Thank you for a truly memorable experience Gavis and Gorilla Trek team.
combo	We we're most impressed and very grateful!"
combo	"We just returned from a terrific tour, which included a sightseeing day in Kigali, a two-day gorillas trek in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable N.P., and a golden monkey trek in Rwanda's Volcanoes N.P.
combo	The whole experience was wonderful both because of the animal and cultural experiences and because of our incomparable guide, Enos.
combo	He is a patient and charming man with an inexhaustible knowledge of history (not just African) and local culture.
combo	We will remember our rich conversations as long as we do the time with the gorillas.
combo	Also, Nelson was excellent in helping us plan the trip and responding to emails as the trip approached."
combo	"This was an absolutely amazing experience.
combo	I decided to trek the gorillas in Uganda instead of Rwanda based on the cost difference for the permits between Uganda and Rwanda and it was worth it.
combo	Geoffery was my personal driver and he was absolutely the best.
combo	He picked me up in Kigali from the airport and we traveled to Uganda to my hotel.
combo	Along the way, Geoffery suggested places to stop for great pictures as well as museums.
combo	He made sure that I didn't have any issues crossing the boarders in Uganda or Rwanda.
combo	The company Gorilla Trek Africa communicated well and made sure all of my questions were answered.
combo	Seeing the gorillas in their natural environment is breath taking and having someone to help you with all of the logistics makes everything a bit easier for you to enjoy"
combo	"I was a single female traveling alone and I felt completely looked after and pampered for the whole trip.
combo	Norman, my guide, was delightful company and a very careful driver.
combo	The gorillas were totally amazing, as expected.
combo	I would recommend this tour company."
combo	"We planned a 6 night gorilla trekking adventure in both Rwanda and Uganda through Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We started to plan the trip a year out in August 2017 for our Aug 2018 trip.
combo	We emailed tand Nelson replied.
combo	From then on he was our email communication.
combo	He was informative, organised and made us feel secure.
combo	We chose the accomodations ourselves and he booked them for us.
combo	He arranged our private driver for the duration.
combo	He arranged for us to drive between Rwanda and Uganda and then down to Entebbe for the airport hotel.
combo	Without his help, advice throughout and communication we may not have done this trip.
combo	He was excellent.
combo	Our private driver for the entire duration was Sam.
combo	He was superb.
combo	He was flexible, kind, safe, informative, always on time, super organised and a great driver.
combo	The 4 wheel drive was always clean.
combo	He provided water throughout and thought of all our needs even stopping at great coffee shops as he knew we love coffee, taking us to places we requested like the Ugandan equator for photos and the top of the world after our request.
combo	We loved him.
combo	He got us across the border between Rwanda and Uganda and drove the 12 hours from the mountains to Entebbe easily.
combo	He was so fantastic.
combo	Gorilla trek Africa made our trip possible.
combo	Highly highly recommend."
combo	"Had a wonderful time with guide Elias.
combo	Trip was well organized, nice hotels, hit all the best parks within reasonable distance of starting point.
combo	Elias made sure I got in the best position to see everything, for example getting in the early Bwindi gorilla group, getting on the best boat and start time in Queen Elizabeth park, working with other guides to find animals on drive safari, as well as always getting me in the best picture position!
combo	Elias has wonderful bird knowledge and is great at finding animals on safari."
combo	"When we initially got in contact with Gorilla Trek Africa, Nelson was helpful in suggesting itineraries to suit our time contraints and budget.
combo	Understanding that Volcanoes National Park's permit fee may be out of reach for certain travellers (i.e.
combo	us), Nelson helpfully suggested we instead take the option to trek in Bwindi in Uganda.
combo	Several months later we hit the ground in Kigali with guide Gavis who was both professional, well-informed and full of good stories + definitely someone you can trust when driving the winding mountain paths to Bwindi.
combo	His expertise and rapour with the various personnel at the lodge we stayed at (Bwindi Jungle Lodge @ Lake Mulehe) and the park rangers speaks for itself.
combo	And the Gorilla Trek itself is an unforgettable and touching experience.
combo	It was humbling to be guided into the park by the UWA Rangers (thanks to Peace, Bright and George) and porters (Stevie) who made the hardcore trek seem easy.
combo	Nothing however can really describe the thrill of being amidst a troupe of Mountain Gorillas - so I'd recommend you get in touch with Gorilla Trek Africa to see for yourself!
combo	Another positive is that visiting either Bwindi or Volcanoes helps ensure the conservation of this magnificent species we were so close to losing while also allowing local communities to gain the benefits of the tourism industry - and seeing first hand how rangers, tourism and local communities work together in Bwindi is a good example of how ecotourism should work.
combo	Massive shout out to Gavis for safely getting us to and fro while educating and entertainning us!"
combo	"We went to Rwanda with another couple to do the Gorilla Trekking.
combo	We had an incredible experience.
combo	Our guides were Patrick and Jerome and they could not have been better.
combo	We had a beautiful day and saw the Golden Monkeys on a farm shortly before we reached the mountain, which was a huge bonus.
combo	They send trackers up into the mountain in the early morning so you are pretty much guaranteed to see the gorilla family to which you are assigned (eight people to a group visit one family which consists of a Silverback male with multiple females and babies).
combo	There are porters for hire who will help you and carry your stuff.
combo	We just used the walking sticks provided but several people made use of the porters.
combo	We were fortunate that we found our family in about an hour and could get real up close and personal with them.
combo	Our guides were very familiar with the gorillas and instructed us on exactly where to stand and how to act with them.
combo	It was a phenomenal experience being among them, observing their behavior, watching them play with their babies and just looking into their eyes.
combo	As I said, we had beautiful weather but I would suggest bringing rain gear, we borrowed ""gators"" from the lodge which protect your shins from mud and ants, and bottles of water.
combo	Also, thick leather type gloves will protect your hands from the thorns and brambles.
combo	We met guests later that day in our hotel that were gone for seven hours so it can be quite strenuous.
combo	Also, the elevation is about 8500 feet so be aware of that if you are effected by the altitude."
combo	"Sometimes when you are booking on the internet, there are the concerns of what you might actually receive.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was high on my list and I was concerned my expectations might be too high.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa managed to surpass all of my expectations!!!
combo	Everything went so smoothly, without any problems.
combo	As others have mentioned, Nelson was efficient and timely with all of my emails, with excellent suggestions.
combo	He appears to have endless patience, as our travel plans evolved :) , Our driver Krish, was excellent!
combo	A very good driver and always checking to make sure we were both ok.
combo	Very knowledgeable of both Rwanda and Uganda, answering our endless questions.
combo	He kept us informed of the daily schedule, was always timely, and became a very enjoyable new friend.
combo	We do hope to return.
combo	We highly recommend both Gorilla Trek Africa and Krish!
combo	By the way, I don't usually write such long reviews!"
combo	"I booked a 3 day trip with gorilla trek Africa, corresponding over email and always getting quick responses from Nelson (to my endless questions).
combo	My tour started with being picked up at kigali airport, then a 2 hour drive to gorilla solutions lodge near musanze ( as nothing was planned for the first day my driver offered to take me to the genocide memorial), the next morning i went on a golden monkey trek which was brilliant, I didn't expect to get so close.
combo	Then after lunch we drove to Uganda (I had my East Africa visa) stayed overnight near Bwindi.
combo	The next morning the gorilla trek itself was fantastic, guides were great, and luckily within an hour we had got up close to 6 or so gorillas.
combo	After lunch we drove back to kigali.
combo	It all went really smoothly, permits and accommodation and meals all organised, no problems at all.
combo	My driver Julius was great, always making sure I was okay and taking care of everything, and also great company.
combo	The trip couldn't have gone any better!
combo	I was worried it would all feel rushed but it was actually really relaxed ( and most importantly I got to see gorillas).
combo	I would recommend Julius and the company anytime."
combo	"We recently completed a incredible holiday with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Right from my first enquiry to the company, Nelson responded immediately with answers to all our questions, the itinerary he put together was perfect and covered all the things we had wanted to do.
combo	The accommodation we had was nothing short of impressive, the charming staff and views from each place we stayed will remain memorable.
combo	Our guide Harryson, gave us the experience of a life time with his vast knowledge of Uganda wildlife, the culture and history of Uganda was unbelievable.
combo	Due to Harryson’s we finished our holiday in love with Uganda and its people Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa Nelson and Harryson"
combo	"We organised a 7 day trip with Nelson (who always responded promptly) from Kampala to Kigali and got to see so much amazing stuff.
combo	Lions, elephants, hippos and heaps of chimps, gorillas and golden monkeys.
combo	It was truly all we could dream of.
combo	We opted for the most expensive accommodation and we were very happy with that.
combo	Our driver Chris took care of everything for us so we didn't have to think, just sit back and enjoy.
combo	I'll cherish these memories forever."
combo	"An incredible once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Trackers spend every day with each Gorilla family and let the guides know where they are.
combo	According to your fitness level and their location visitors are allocated to a group.
combo	Easy - the gorillas are close and low down on the mountain.
combo	Hard - the gorillas are further up the mountain and further in.
combo	We were placed with an easy group but were unlucky and the Gorilla family moved so we had to climb up the mountain and ended up having a 4hr trek.
combo	Our friends who were allocated a hard group ended up with a 20min trek on flat ground!
combo	You can nominate your fitness level but the reality is that Gorilla families move and you follow.
combo	If you are really incapacitated you can be stretchered in - one of our fellow trekkers did this and had a wonderful experience.The guides, porters and trackers are wonderful and very passionate about protecting these incredible creatures.
combo	Make sure you hire a porter and take gloves and gaiters - both can be hired at the park.
combo	You may not need them but trust me if you do, you will regret not having them.
combo	Also take money to tip your helpers - they deserve it.
combo	Worth the cost and you get help if you need it but like much of Africa you need to keep an open mind and embrace the experience."
combo	"I have been remiss in reviewing my trip with Gorilla Trek from last year.
combo	But it was one of the best wildlife trips I have ever taken.
combo	The organization and customer service from both Nelson and Bill was fantastic.
combo	And then our small group arrived in Kigali to be met by Eric, truly a guide extraordinaire!
combo	Not only did Eric guide us to Volcanoes Park, but he also took us to Dian Fossey's museum and a local diner to enjoy the local cuisine.
combo	We had incredible interaction with a gorilla family including the silverback brushing by us.... the golden monkeys were also a treat, and it was wonderful to see the local people guarding their potato crops and merely chasing the monkeys out.
combo	Eric was an outstanding birder and we were able to get some nice views of the African Grey-Crowned Crane.
combo	We were also treated to some local dancing and got to help out with culling beans from their pods in one of the villages.
combo	The visit to the Genocide Museum helped us feel for this country.
combo	Our three days was full and most incredible, thanks to Gorilla Trek and I highly recommend them."
combo	"I went gorilla trekking after a two week safari with A and K and they made all the arrangements for the gorilla trek as well.
combo	It was spectacular and worth the time, money, and effort without a doubt, although it is expensive.
combo	I cannot say enough good things about everyone involved with our experience, including the gorillas, LOL.
combo	We stayed at the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and they were great and helped outfit us for the trek.
combo	Our guide on the first day was Bosco and the second day, Francious.
combo	They were terrific and had great helpers who keep track of the gorillas and help you get to them along with porters.
combo	We went to see the same family both days.
combo	The first day was an easy trek, the second day a little more vertical.
combo	You are to stay some distance from the gorillas but sometimes they forget the rules.
combo	You always get to see them up close though and the guides and helpers all vocalize to the gorillas and there seems to be genuine communication in both directions.
combo	Francious, worked with Dian Fossey for many years until her death, so he was really an expert but really a fun guy.
combo	It is an exciting breath taking experience to be next to a 450 pound gorilla and his family of around 20 other gorillas.
combo	The gorillas hardly react to your presence they are so busy eating and playing, but for you it is very thrilling, enlightening, and a surreal experience to be next to an animal who shares 96% of your DNA.
combo	The whole team makes your trek to be as comfortable and easy as possible including deciding which family of gorillas you should trek to see based on your physical ability, age, etc.
combo	You sit, stand, observe, and take pictures for an hour with the gorillas and then reluctantly you must say goodbye and trek back to your base with a feeling of amazement and thrill of your experience.
combo	The people involved in making this happen on our trip did a great job and I encourage anyone interested to go to Rwanda and have this thrilling, wonderful experience.
combo	I cannot wait to go back!"
combo	It was a fantastic experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson was very helpful with the booking and answered all questions over a period of over 5 months of trip preparation.
combo	My guide was Gavis who is a great guy and has incredible knowledge about Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	He is also a great resource on birds apart from the animals.
combo	I spotted a large variety of birds and wildlife due to the great knowledge of Gavis.
combo	I enjoyed my Uganda/Rwanda Safari with Gorilla Trek Africa and strongly recommend them to future travellers to East Africa.
combo	Thank you Nelson and Gavis.
combo	Here is my photo withGavis.
combo	"Do not book through this company and if you do ask for a breakdown or permit etc.
combo	Foreign permits are $600 and local ones are only $80.
combo	It came to my attention that the company is overcharging for the permits.
combo	I got charged $325 more than I should have.
combo	Have requested a refund today but have been rudely refused.
combo	Disappointed because I was actually impressed with the service and professionalism that came across when booking and the tour experience itself.
combo	Dishonest business, do not book with these guys."
combo	Gorilla trek africa was an absolutely incredible experience.
combo	They are so professional quick in their response and created the best tour matching us with the perfect guides for a perfect experience.
combo	You have to request Douglas he was the reason are trip was so perfect.
combo	He is such a good and wonderful person.
combo	On top of being just a joy to be around he did everything to advocate for us and to ensure we had a perfect time.
combo	His attention to detail was incredible the best customer service/personalized experienced in our 16 days in Africa.
combo	I would 100% recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and Douglas they will take perfect care of you!!
combo	Thank you Douglas and Gorilla Trek Africa miss u already
combo	"I signed up for the 2-day Bwindi Gorilla trek and it was fabulous!
combo	First off, Nelson was super efficient in responding to all my questions on email/whatsapp and that made the planning process real easy.
combo	My driver (Dennis) picked me up from my hotel in Kigali on Saturday at 9am and kept me informed about the local culture and history, throughout our 3-hour drive to the Ugandan border.
combo	I had applied for a multiple entry East African visa online, and this came in very handy to cross into Uganda and return the next day.
combo	Dennis felt that my running shoes wouldn’t be good enough if it rained on the trek and helped me buy a pair of boots ($10) at a local shop on the Uganda side.
combo	Turned out it didn't rain after all!
combo	We checked into the Bwindi Jungle Lodge after lunch at about 2 PM, and after a somewhat disappointing overnight stay (there was no hot water and food was pretty average) we left the next morning after a very early breakfast at 5.30 AM for the park headquarters.
combo	There are no roads to drive on, so be prepared for a very very bumpy ride.
combo	Fortunately, the massive 4x4 made it without a problem.
combo	There's a steep climb from the parking area to the meeting point of the park headquarters.
combo	Watch out for breathlessness and mild headaches as you’re at an altitude of 2000m+ I decided to hire a porter for the trek (US$15), who turned out to be of great help at several points and I’d definitely recommend one, your fitness levels notwithstanding.
combo	Our trek began at about 8 AM and we spotted the Gorillas at about 9.30 AM thanks to group of trackers who go ahead in advance…The one hour with the magnificent Gorillas went by too quickly, but every moment was just fantastic.
combo	A thousand pictures later, we began our way back and reached the park headquarters at about 1 PM and I was back in my hotel in Kigali on Sunday by 3.30 PM (local time).
combo	There’s a 1 hour time difference with Uganda.
combo	Keep small notes ($, RWF, UGX) with you for WIFI in restaurants and tips, which will be much appreciated.
combo	Also bear in mind that most 4x4 vehicles are not air-conditioned…so remember to ask for one if you think you’ll need it."
combo	"Organized system.
combo	Friendly, knowledgeable, caring staff.
combo	Incredible once in a lifetime experience that one should never pass up.
combo	Book well in advance and train for the hike.
combo	We are a fit family but this hike nearly did us in.
combo	The steep conditions and altitude are difficult.
combo	Gaitors and gloves are a must.
combo	They assign your hike based on your physical capabilities.
combo	The gorilla experience brought tears of joy.
combo	We were within arms reach of them."
combo	"Our five-day trip to Queen Elizabeth Park and Bwindi Inpenetrable forest with our tour guide Elvis Mandela was simply breathtaking.
combo	Nelson helped us put the tour together on very short notice (we were on a three-month driving trip across Africa, but our vehicle broke down) and handled affairs excellently even after hours.
combo	The trip itself was dazzling.
combo	Apart from the sheer intensity of tracking chimpanzees at Kalinzu and gorillas in Bwindi (near Ruhija), witnessing behavioirial quirks of hippos up close (on the Kazinga channel between lakes Edward and George), Nile crocodiles, buffalo herds, and on and on, it was the human encounters that were truly remarkable.
combo	Ugandans have a generosity of spirit from which the west could learn a lot!
combo	Our tour guide, Elvis, was a fountain of knowledge, covering everything from fauna, geography and flora to politics and history!
combo	He was also flexible about the itinerary on our request, always professional and yet full of humor, a great driver, and aware of the total context at all times.
combo	Exceptional!
combo	We learned a lot and will miss him!
combo	Thank you"
combo	"We planned our Rwanda/Uganda Gorilla trip using Gorilla Trek because of their extraordinary reviews.
combo	All went well in the planning with Nelson.
combo	He made certain that all arrangements were made and the itinerary fell into place.
combo	In hidesight, we were a bit over-ambitious in our planning but this was our fault not his.
combo	We wanted to do everything and in the 8 days we had alotted.
combo	Turns out, a minor but painful hip problem really slowed me down and presented challenges for each of our planned activities.
combo	Our driver was Krish and he did a wonderful job of keeping our journey on track, making sure we went on easier treks because of my hip, and ensuring that we had a great experience!
combo	He is kind, careful and soft-spoken.We always felt comfortable and safe with him and knew that he would do everything possible for us to have the wildlife experiences we had come so far to have.
combo	The Rwanda gorilla trek was, for a person with vast wildlife experiences, the pinnacle experience!
combo	It was magical.
combo	The Uganda trek was great but just didn't rise to the Rwanda experience.
combo	I do want to comment on how friendly and caring we found everyone in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	It was an exceptional cultural experience as well as a wildlife experience.
combo	People in the US could learn a lot about graciousness and hospitality form the folks of these 2 countries.
combo	Thanks Nelson and Krish for allowing us to experience such amazaing things."
combo	"Last month, my sister and I spent 7-days traveling with our Gorilla Trek Africa guide, Eric Manzi.
combo	This adventure occurred after a 3-week safari in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana.
combo	For me, this was the 3rd trip to Africa in 4 years.
combo	I am very fortunate to have spent 4 months enjoying the gorgeous scenery, wonderful people, and stunning wildlife that Africa has to offer.
combo	Having experienced several companies and many guides, I can say without hesitation that GTA is up there with the best, in terms of planning, value, and execution!
combo	From my first contact, communication with Nelson went very smoothly, and we were able to decide quickly on an itinerary that met our needs.
combo	The experiences he arranged included gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda; chimpanzee, Colobus Monkey and Golden Monkey tracking in Rawnda; and visits to cultural sites and museums.
combo	All were very enjoyable and educational.
combo	Of course, seeing gorillas in the wild is an experience that cannot be described, but surpasses so many others!
combo	Eric, our driver and guide, was everything a visitor could hope for--kind, competent, well-spoken, informative, accommodating, and extremely professional.
combo	We could not have been better cared for!
combo	I would recommend him most highly to anyone wanting to gain a true appreciation for, and understanding of, Rwanda, in a relatively short visit.
combo	Because of him, and his obvious love for and pride in his country, I am already thinking of a return visit!
combo	And hopefully, I can again have Eric escort me.
combo	Rwanda is a truly beautiful country, with delightful people, and it has made remarkable strides in a short time, despite a tragic past.
combo	I would encourage anyone who is curious, adventurous, and interested in learning about a very different culture, to experience the magic of Rwanda, her people and wildlife."
combo	"Arranging our 3 day trip in Uganda from Rwanda was straightforward with Nelson's help.
combo	Our driver, Krish, arrived bang on time and throughout he was courteous, friendly and helpful.
combo	We could not have been in better hands.
combo	The trip, the accommodation and of course, the gorillas, were amazing.
combo	Just do it!"
combo	"We did a 5 day trip starting in Entebbe and ending in Kigali, including a Chimpanzee trek, Queen Elizabeth safari, Gorilla trek, and ending with Golden Monkeys.
combo	While every trek was fun, it was incredible to spend time so close with the gorillas.
combo	The lodges we stayed in were all comfortable and with good or excellent service and food.
combo	Gavis was our driver and guide, and from the moment he picked us up in Entebbe, we knew it was going to be a good trip.
combo	He has the basics down fine (driving, logistics, English), but also goes above and beyond with lots of knowledge about the local culture, history, and animals, and a personality that is easy going, patient, funny and kind.
combo	He's well connected and popular with all the staff at hotels, parks, etc., which makes things extra smooth.
combo	We've had trips with guides that weren't so great before, so we appreciate this all the more, and hope you are lucky enough to have him as your guide too (or request him!
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was an easy company to work with, responded to our (many) emails promptly to answer questions and customize our itinerary.
combo	We had some doubts about using a wire transfer for our deposit and payment, but it worked out just fine.
combo	From what I learned about the company, it seems they take customer feedback very seriously to make sure each guide delivers with consistency, although I can only speak for our guide."
combo	We had a one day trip that exceeded every expectation.
combo	The hike was about 2 hours and you could tell it was a higher elevation.
combo	The guides were super about taking breaks and telling stories about the gorillas and Rwanda.
combo	I read the other reviews and am not sure I can pick better words to describe it.
combo	It is a lifetime bucket list experience.
combo	It is super intense but not scary.
combo	It is a piece of the world most will never see.
combo	a massive animal with so many human tendencies that is quiet and gentle.
combo	The guides did an outstanding job with our party.
combo	I also want to say that my week I spent in Rwanda that I felt safe and secure in the areas I visited.
combo	I had a plan and stuck to it but felt safe in the small towns as I did in Kigali.
combo	the Rwandan people.
combo	"We did approximately 12 days in Rwanda filled with gorilla/chimp/golden monkey treks, hikes to waterfalls, visits to various museums and a cultural village, and the genocide museum in Kigali.
combo	All of our trip was arranged through Gorilla Trek Africa and we were accompanied by our guide Eric Manzi each day.
combo	Words can not express how amazing this trip was or how well we were taken care of by Eric.
combo	The animal treks are an incredible, unforgettable experience, especially those with the gorillas.
combo	And the Genocide Museum in Kigali is a must see.
combo	It's moving and emotional and very well done.
combo	Everything was organized and carried out as planned in our itinerary, and Eric went above and beyond our expectations in every way.
combo	He was knowledgeable, friendly, professional and fun!
combo	He gave us insights into the culture and people of Rwanda, helped us organize an impromptu visit to a local school, and was willing to accommodate our last minute requests as well.
combo	When my traveling companion injured herself on a hike, he went out of his way to arrange prompt medical care that included translating our needs to the staff, picking up prescriptions, arranging helicopter transportation to the hospital and care along the way, as well as rebooking hotel accommodations for us and personally making sure we got to the airport the following day vs us taking a cab.
combo	He handled everything we needed, particularly the hiking injury, in a calm, easy manner and I can't stress enough how thankful we were to have such an incredible guide with us!!
combo	If you get a chance, request him...you won't regret it!!!
combo	Things to know for the hikes/treks: Some are easy, some are more difficult, it just depends on what you're seeing that day.
combo	Porters are available to help you with backpacks etc and to assist you in navigating the tougher areas.
combo	Be prepared to be outdoors for several hours (have sunscreen, water, mosquito repellant etc).
combo	Take a raincoat (showers can crop up unexpectedly, but are quick) and an old pair of gardening gloves is a plus (some of the forest areas have stinging nettles and they can be thick; the gardening gloves make it easier to get through them).
combo	Take pictures and video but also take time to just enjoy the surroundings and watch the animals without feeling the need to ""document"" everything.
combo	It'll be an adventure you'll never forget, I promise!"
combo	"We did the 4 days Gorilla and Golden monkey tracking and we had a fantastic time.
combo	Most of the success of the trip was thanks to Krish that took exceptional care of us.
combo	He picked us up in Kigali and showed us around the city before heading to Uganda and get where we were staying in Bwindi Jungle lodge.
combo	The lodge is placed in front of a gorgeous lake and the rooms are really nice.
combo	Food is very good as well.
combo	Obviously the best of all was the Gorillas adventure and we loved every minute of the hour that we spent with them.
combo	It was an amazing trip and it was very well organized by Gorilla Trek Africa, as everything came up as expected and we didn't have any bad surprises at all.
combo	Again, Krish was a fantastic guide that made our life easier and helped us in all what we wanted to do or know."
combo	"This absolutely amazing experience with a few of my coworkers was made 100% better by going through Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	Our schedule was tight and we only had a 2-day window in Kigali and we really wanted to be able to see the Gorillas.
combo	I reached out to several companies that had positive reviews to schedule a short notice (less than a week) one-day trip for three of us.
combo	Anna from GTA was immediately responsive, answered all of our questions, and got us situated right away, even working with us until midnight (while other companies finally contacted me a week after we had already left Rwanda).
combo	While the cost was pretty steep, this was mostly due to the permits in Rwanda being $1500 per person, so the overall charges were relatively reasonable, and this was such an amazing experience it was well worth the money.
combo	Our driver/guide Gavis was also top tier, giving us a smooth, safe and informative ride all the way from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park and back (5 hrs round trip), and supplying us with all the water for the trek!
combo	We could not have asked for a better team to make our experience memorable.
combo	Overall I would highly recommend GTA, and wish that we could have done a longer trip with this company."
combo	We chose GTA based on previous reviews and were not disappointed From the start working with Nelson they were fiendly and easy to communicate with.
combo	We were picked up in Kampala and our driver/ guide Asaph was outstanding.
combo	He was a great guide on the trips and helpful at all times.
combo	The treking was unbelievable a d each day was a different and unique experience.
combo	The 2 lodges were nice but the Mahinda Lodge was gorgeous with a view of Mboro park.
combo	This was a special experience.
combo	Thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa for a super trip.
combo	Mfrothsc
combo	"We just returned from an 11 day tour of Uganda that Nelson custom designed for us.
combo	We went Gorillla trekking twice, chimp trekking once, and went on three game drives, three boat cruises, a nature walk, and visited the rhinos in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
combo	All of it was awesome!
combo	Our guide, Bernard, could not have been better.
combo	He was attentive, responsive to our requests and questions, and went out of his way to ensure we saw everything, despite one of us getting ill one day.
combo	If you go, I suggest you request Bernard as your guide (although in reading others’ reviews, they all sound good).
combo	Finally, all of the guides on each excursion were also excellent.
combo	We highly recommend this experience with Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"We went with Gorilla Trek Africa because of the great reviews and were so very happy with our trip with them.
combo	Our guide and driver, Bernard, was knowledgeable and adjusted to our interests.
combo	He took great care of us.
combo	I got Ill at one point and he made sure I got the care I needed and adjusted a couple activities so I did not miss out on anything.
combo	Their expertise in planning and executing on the itinerary delivered an experience of a lifetime!
combo	I can’t say enough about what a good company this is and how outstanding their staff are."
combo	"I was in Kigali for a business trip so had limited time to see the gorillas.
combo	I was picked up at my hotel at 4am and driven to the volcano national park for the gorilla trek.
combo	My driver Norman (?
combo	was excellent and super helpful all day.
combo	Got to the park and started my trek with a group of 7 others.
combo	We trekked a little over an hour and then came to the gorillas, the experience was amazing to see the family up close and personal in the forest.
combo	Spent an hour and then trekked out, was done by noon.
combo	Drove back to Kigali and stopped for lunch along the way, back at my hotel around 3 pm.
combo	The entire day was wonderful, the guides and porters were great.
combo	Very professional company and responsive.
combo	Expensive but worth it for the once in a lifetime experience."
combo	"This went beyond my expectations of what I thought I was going to experience.
combo	To be able to view gorillas at close proximity and sense what they were doing and feeling...truly a magical experience.
combo	One must be fit though, the hike is strenuous."
combo	"When a friend and I were planning a trip to see mountain gorillas, I really didn't know where to start planning.
combo	I saw good reviews for GorillaTrekAfrica on Trip Advisor, contacted Nelson, and never looked back.
combo	Nelson got back to me promptly every time I emailed, answered all of my many questions (sometimes twice), and helped us decide to travel to Uganda to see the gorillas at a $600 permit price, rather than Rwanda for a $1500 permit price.
combo	I am so glad I got to visit Uganda - it is a beautiful country with so much more I want to see there.
combo	Our driver/guide, Asaph, picked us up from our hotel in Kigali, and asked if there was anything we needed help with before we left for Uganda.
combo	When we said there were a few things we needed to do, he helped us get a local phone, buy an inexpensive suitcase, and pack up on the peanut butter and crackers for a later part of our trip.
combo	With those tasks accomplished, we were more able to enjoy our quick Uganda trip.
combo	The drive through Rwanda and Uganda to the hotel was a great part of the trip.
combo	The countryside is a continuous series of post card photos and Asaph was there to answer any questions we had.
combo	We stopped at a local restaurant near the border for lunch and the food was good.
combo	We stayed at Bwindi Jungle Lodge and would recommend it highly as well.
combo	The rooms are very nice with a nice hot shower and overlook Lake Muhele where we watched fisherman out in their canoes, often singing.
combo	Dinner the first night was a buffet and was very tasty.
combo	The second night we ordered off the menu and that was good as well.
combo	One very nice touch was that the staff met us at the door in the afternoon when we returned from trekking, took our dirty boots, and left them cleaned for us in the morning.
combo	We were a little more than an hour from the park so started out before dawn on trekking day, which meant we got to see sunrise and mist in the mountains on the way to Bwindi.
combo	This was an unexpected highlight.
combo	The trek itself was a once in a lifetime experience and couldn't have gone better, partly because we took the advice of others and hired porters.
combo	I exercise regularly at home and think of myself as pretty fit, but this hike is at high altitude, steep, and slippery.
combo	More than once, I was glad I had my porter Nicholas there to carry my backpack and lend me a hand (or a push.
combo	Our hike in was right around 2 hours and I think we had a generous hour with the gorillas.
combo	I was surprised by how close we were to them and how unconcerned they were with us.
combo	It was also clear that the guides and trackers know them well.
combo	I felt like both we and the gorillas were well-respected.
combo	Great trip, great company.
combo	I'd do it all over again if I could!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa is an excellent provider of full service safari that covers transportation, lodging and activities.
combo	They provide well qualified guides who accompany you and who may double up as your driver for the entire trip.
combo	We had plans for a 12 day safari and got quotes from Gorilla Trek Africa as well as other providers.
combo	The rates provided by Gorilla Trek Africa were very competitive and lower than many other providers.
combo	We later found that other companies that quoted higher had their guests staying in the same lodges as we were, had the same meal options and were provided similar transportation as ours.
combo	For us, we were provided a Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 with an open top.
combo	The vehicle was in good condition.
combo	A Land Cruiser has better ground elevation than some of the other cars and while on the safari, we found our car could go closer to animals than other 4x4 vehicles.
combo	Our guide was Kenneth Muhindi and I'm so happy we did the Safari with him.
combo	Kenneth worked as a ranger for over a decade in various national parks including Murchison National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Forest and Bwindi National Forest.
combo	He has intimate knowledge of the parks, animals, animal movements and how to spot animals that are hiding in plain sight.
combo	He is a leading birder in Uganda and is actively involved in birding projects.
combo	He also has great local connections which allows him to enquire about sightings and take his guests to the areas where sightings have occurred.
combo	Our safari itinerary was as follows: Starting from Kampala - Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Forest, Bwindi National Forest, Lake Mburo National Park - Ending at Kampala.
combo	I would highly recommend Ugada as a travel option.
combo	Also Gorilla Trek Africa comes highly recommended.
combo	Best of all, if you are able to get Kenneth as your guide, you are guaranteed a great trip."
combo	"After finding out the permits for the Rwandan Gorilla's had doubled in price to $1500 for the permit alone I was apprehensive about going at all.
combo	I contacted Nelson from Gorilla Trek and he gave me many different options to choose from and gave me time to think about them.
combo	I ended up going on a two day tour to see the Ugandan Gorillas (was $900 cheaper overall than the Rwandan).
combo	After confusion of dates on my part my driver Gavis pushed back my departure time from Kigali so I could still make the tour and it all worked out perfectly.
combo	The drive from Kigali wasn't as long as I thought it would be (took about 4 hours including stopping at the border for immigration) and Gavis was very friendly and made me feel very at ease as a 20 year old traveling alone for the first time.
combo	I stayed at Bakiga lodge which Nelson set up and it was gorgeous and I wish I could have stayed longer, the staff, service, food and lodge was amazing!
combo	We arrived pretty early to the briefing in the morning but that was because Gavis was bargaining with the rangers to get me on a trek that wouldn't take hours and hours as we had to drive back to Kigali that afternoon.
combo	It worked out perfectly, took around 2 hours to find the Gorillas (only an hour of that was hiking), I strongly recommend you hire a porter for $15-$20, I thought I wouldn't need one as I'm 20 in fairly good shape but I was talked into it and was so thankful as some of the slopes are near vertical and the porter will help pull and push you so you don't fall all the way down!
combo	I cannot recommend this trip enough and Gorilla Trek sorted all the hassle out for me as I wasn't sure what I was doing and they are very responsive, professional and attentive!
combo	One thing to note if you are going to the Uganda Gorillas - is to pack warm clothes, I had no idea how cold it would be after staying in Rwanda for 2 weeks and not needing a sweater once."
combo	"Back in the states, I have to review photos to make sure we actually went Gorilla trekking.
combo	It was an amazing adventure and one we will never forget.
combo	The guides, trackers, and porters were efficient, polite and so very helpful.
combo	Just remember you are at 7000 feet and altitude can be a problem.
combo	The trek itself runs from difficult, more difficult to most difficult.
combo	I would do it again in a minute."
combo	"We highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson did a great job of putting together an amazing trip for us, for a very reasonable price.
combo	He was so patient with our many inquiries and many changes to our itinerary.
combo	When we arrived at the airport in Kigali after our long journey, our driver Douglas was waiting for us at the airport.
combo	He was an excellent driver and kind and knowledgeable guide for us throughout our 5 day tour.
combo	He was expert at getting us to our hotels and treks on time, navigating the border crossings, currency exchange places, and windy roads and traffic jams.
combo	We learned a great deal about Uganda and Rwanda from him!
combo	We went straight from the airport to the excellent Gorilla Solution Lodge in Volcanoes NP, and trekked to see the golden monkeys the next day.
combo	We were glad we did not miss out on that wonderful experience!
combo	Douglas then drove us across the border to Bwindi in Uganda for our 2 days of gorilla trekking.
combo	We highly recommend two days of gorilla trekking, if possible.
combo	The two days were very different--we saw two different gorilla families, and both experiences were unbelievable.
combo	We also highly recommend hiring a porter.
combo	We would not have made it on the second day without them, and for $15, you support the local community and help local residents have a stake in conserving the gorillas.
combo	The porters are kind and helpful, and we learned much about the local community from them--so please hire them!
combo	We can't thank Nelson and Douglas at Gorilla Trek Africa for arranging the trip of a lifetime for us!"
combo	"I knew I could only handle another five minutes or so.
combo	I was running on a dirt road on the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable Jungle, and my legs and lungs were telling me to stop.
combo	Fortunately, Asaph from Gorilla Trek was following me in the SUV that I hired for my 9 day trip in Rwanda and Uganda, so I jumped on board and we continued to our destination.
combo	If you think having a driver/guide cater to your every whim is unusual, including following you on a long run while you travel from one destination to another, you’d be right.
combo	But that’s what Gorilla Trek and Asaph will do for you.
combo	He told me to let him know what I wanted to do and he would make it happen, and he was not kidding.
combo	Asaph is friendly, thoughtful, and safety-conscious.
combo	He also has a knack for finding wildlife inside the parks, and I have some incredible pictures to prove it.
combo	In fact, I was lugging a lot of camera equipment and Asaph made sure I was in the right places at the right times for getting fantastic photos.
combo	The lodging in the medium tier felt luxurious to me, and the itinerary allowed me to see so much without feeling like I was traveling all the time.
combo	Nelson was always available to answer my questions during the planning stages.
combo	Thus, I can recommend Gorilla Trek Africa without reservation.
combo	I had the freedom to enjoy the wildlife and my surroundings without having to worry about any of the details.
combo	Enjoy your trip!"
combo	"My friend and I traveled to Rwanda and wanted to see the mountain gorillas.
combo	We used Gorilla Trek Africa and saw gorillas in Uganda.
combo	The experience was wonderful.
combo	Our driver, Asaph, was kind, knowledgeable, and so helpful.
combo	He picked us up at our hotel in Kigali, and before we left Rwanda we asked him to help us change money.
combo	He took us to change money, helped me buy a suitcase (because I'd bought too many baskets to get home in my suitcase), and helped my friend purchase a local phone.
combo	It would have taken us hours to navigate all of this by ourselves.
combo	The trek was incredible.
combo	We saw 8 gorillas in a family of 10, and we were so close to them that my friends thought that I'd use a telephoto lens for my pictures.
combo	One piece of advice: hire a porter.
combo	I did, and am so happy that I did.
combo	I am in reasonably good shape, and even so, it was so helpful to have someone to help me navigate the hike.
combo	Asaph was a wonderful driver and tour guide.
combo	After the gorilla trek (which was incredible),he drove us to a small village south of Kigali for our next stop.
combo	By the end of our time with Asaph, it felt as if we were old friends."
combo	"Bobbie Fissgus to Gorilla Trek Africa June 29 at 11:51 AM · I can't say enough wonderful things about this company, the tour organizer and my guide-driver on my journey.
combo	I am a 70yr.
combo	old single woman and after all my questions, of which I had plenty, I had no doubt that this was the company I would book with.
combo	Nelson, the tour organizer was so patient and understanding of all my concerns and needs.
combo	All were answered and satisfied.
combo	I then had no fear of my safety and well being on my adventure.
combo	Nelson has much concern that he gives you the best experience.
combo	The lodgings I stayed at were Gorilla Safari Lodge and Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort.
combo	The staff, food and accommodations were first class.
combo	My Guide-Driver for the trip was Elvis.
combo	I don't know how to express my extreme gratitude to this man for all the knowledge he gave me, the safety in his driving, the making sure I got to see the villages, how the people live and try to survive, all the history of the different territories and gorilla groups and he even shared(After I asked) alittle about himself and his family.
combo	I could go on but I think you get the idea how wonderful this company is.
combo	I will include my email address if you have any questions that I be able to answer.
combo	bfissgus@yahoo.com"
combo	"I contacted Gorilla Trek Africa on the recommendation of a friend.
combo	The rates in Rwanda are significantly higher than Uganda so we opted to travel to Ruhaji - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest from Kigali.
combo	Eric was the expert guide for our family which includes three 20'ish daughters.
combo	The drive was fascinating and allowed Eric to share his knowledge.
combo	He was fantastic, and very enthusiastic about our trip.
combo	The Gorilla Trek surpassed our expectations.
combo	We got very close to the very peaceful gorilla family.
combo	and there is more to do in Kigali than the guide books suggest.
combo	If you are crossing the borders check out the costs of the various visas versus the East African visa."
combo	"I’ve just done Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, kayaking on Lake Kivu in Gisenyi in Rwanda and I was exploring Kigali, all in just under a week.
combo	Very satisfied, trip of a lifetime.
combo	If you ever wants to do that trip I highly recommend you request Gavis to be your tour guide.
combo	Gavis is very friendly, helpful and full of enthusiasm.. he goes a way beyond going an extra mile.
combo	Nelson was helpful and very patient as we had to reschedule my trip due to incident in Virunga Park, thanks for that.
combo	I’ll be back to explore more of Rwanda as the country is beautiful and people are so friendly."
combo	"I had the pleasure of a 10 day solo safari with Gorilla Trek , with William as my expert guide.
combo	What a brilliant experience!
combo	I learned so much, not just about animals but about birds, life in Rwanda and Uganda, agriculture, orphanages, education ... and red clay roads in the rain 😂.
combo	William encouraged all my enthusiasm, told me stories and shared his expertise with humour and genuine respect for his country!
combo	It was like travelling with a friend , rather than a hired guide!
combo	I highly recommend this safari company .
combo	The office was quick to answer my inquiries, and completely helpful in preparation for this safari."
combo	"This was the most wonderful best experience ever!!!
combo	Surpass my expectation.
combo	I contacted Gorilla trek Africa for my trip to Rwanda through their website and Nelson tailor it to accommodate all my request and answer every email I send (and there were a lot of them) to arrange everything perfectly.
combo	I went chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk in Nyungwe National park.
combo	Then headed to Volcanoes National Park fortrekking to Diane Fossey campsite/grave (I enjoyed this hike very much, it is such a serene peaceful area of the forest and so different from the other areas, worth the effort to get there), then went to see the gorillas and last hike to see the golden monkeys.
combo	Hinal day headed back to Kigali for city tour.
combo	I wish I had more days, 6 days were not enough.
combo	This was a solo trip and my local guide Eric made sure everything was perfect.
combo	He even accommodated little changes/additions along the way for other activities I wanted to do based on my interest.
combo	Plus I got a little sick on my way to Nyungwe National park.
combo	lots of winding roads) and he was very polite and made sure I was ok and felt better.
combo	Rwanda is breathtaking, I felt in love with its countryside, its people, the mountains, the gorillas, everything.
combo	It is a beautiful country and Eric made sure I experience it to the fullest.
combo	I'm already planning my next trip with them to Uganda and Kenya and back to Rwanda in the next years, that is how much I enjoyed this trip.
combo	Recommended 100%."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa planned a perfect 6 night trip for us.
combo	Nelson was there every step of the way, he answered every email and all of our questions promptly.
combo	Ivan was our expert driver and guide.
combo	We had a great time with Ivan.
combo	He had an eagle eye for wildlife, primates and birds.
combo	The roads were rough, muddy, and in a few places washed out and he navigated perfectly.
combo	He made every day an adventure, fun and memorable.
combo	The lodges and tent camps we stayed in were perfectly appointed and the staff lovely.
combo	Our favourite camp was the Ishasha Wilderness Camp it was a bit of a drive but we saw lots of wildlife and the tree climbing lions on the way.
combo	It would have been nice to spend two nights at Ishasha just because it is a bit of a drive and a terrific place!
combo	We also loved Mweya Lodge, we stayed there two nights and the views over the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edouard were beautiful.
combo	The driving times each day were long.
combo	The roads are rough but I wouldn’t trade those hours in the car for anything.
combo	We drove though villages and communities, the border between Rwanda and Uganda , the countryside, and we saw people going about their lives.
combo	The young kids waved at us, we saw young men transporting large loads on their bicycles, we saw women carrying huge bouquets of bananas or tea leaves on their heads and all of this added to our appreciation of this beautiful country.
combo	We did our gorilla trek in Uganda as the permits are less expensive.
combo	Our fees to Gorilla Trek Africa included everything, all permits and park entrance fees etc.
combo	so we never had to think about those details as everything was taken care of.
combo	I can’t describe how special the experience of trekking and spending an hour with the gorillas is - all I can say is- put this trip at the top of your bucket list.
combo	It is that amazing.
combo	Also, the gorillas need us to be their ambassadors.
combo	We also did the chimpanzee trek which was a four hour hike with a guide and I can recommend it too.
combo	It was fun and great to be out of the car and get some exercise.
combo	Since the driving distances (times) are long I recommend planning hikes and treks in order to break up the driving day.
combo	The Kazinga Channel boat trip was a bird lovers paradise and another great ½ day excursion that we really enjoyed.
combo	Seeing the fisherman and fishing village was interesting and made for beautiful photos.
combo	I noticed in many of the reviews that this trip is always referred to as the “Trip of a Lifetime” and it really is.
combo	We are lucky and plan to be back in Uganda in 2020 and will use Gorilla Trek Africa to plan our trip and we look forward to seeing Ivan again."
combo	"We arranged a 2 night 3 day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa via email and everything turned out great.
combo	We were picked up as promised at our hotel in Kigali and Julius, our guide, was very attentive and knowledgeable.
combo	The experience with the trek itself was wonderful, we enjoyed the difficult hike through the jungle and were lucky to see the lovely gorilla's VERY close up - we spent an hour with them.
combo	Also enjoyed the community hike outside of the National Park, and the Gorrilla Safari Lodge that we stayed at as part of the tour.
combo	Great experience!"
combo	"There is little that could have been done to make our 11-day trip in Uganda any better, other than to make it longer so we could have enjoyed more time with our guide Chris Ngabirano in thisbeautiful country The very best feature of our travels was our guide-driver, Chris Ngabirano.
combo	Of all the guides we've ever had in our travels, he is far superior.
combo	He was incredible and made us feel like more than guests...more like treasured friends.
combo	He shared his expertise so well, and it was obvious that he enriched our experiences by setting us up with the very best local guides available --his contacts made a huge difference in securing special attention and assistance for us every step of the way.
combo	His knowledge of everywhere we went and everything we saw was so enlightening.
combo	Be sure to engage Chris as your guide-driver because he will make certain you have the best adventure of your life -- that is what he did for us.
combo	Our trip involved myriad successful pursuits for wildlife in a mountain gorilla habituation experience in the Rushaga area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (truly grueling and super strenuous, although with a tremendous payoff), golden monkey habituation experience in Mgahinga, tree climbing lion seach in Ishasha, collared lion tracking and Kazinga Channel cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, chimpanzee trek in Kibale National Park, walk in Bigodi Wetlands, and quest for the Shoebill Stork in Mabamba Swamp, and we topped it all off with whitewater rafting on the headwaters of the Nile near Jinja.
combo	We traveled in June, which offered us perfect weather at the beginning of the dry season."
combo	"My mother and I have wanted for years to see gorillas in the wild, and finally had the time and funds to do so.
combo	After spending months researching companies and guides, I decided upon Gorilla Trek Africa, and I am so glad I did.
combo	This was the best organised tour I have ever been on, bar none.
combo	I have traveled to over 40 countries and spent nearly a year and a half in Africa total, with 10 countries in Africa alone, and GTA exceeded all other experiences.
combo	They took care of multiple permits to trek to animals (golden monkeys, gorillas, and chimps), provided a sturdy 4x4 vehicle to get everywhere, booked all the meals and accommodation for the whole trip, were incredibly clear and responsive via email before the trip and booking it, and, most importantly, gave us a guide who brought everything together.
combo	Every place we stayed was prepared for us, every National Park we visited had the top trackers waiting to give us one-of-a kind experiences with animals.
combo	Even taking the “budget” option we were in gorgeous and immaculately clean places every night.
combo	But best of all was David, our driver and guide from GTA.
combo	David is polite, extremely knowledgeable, easy to talk to, flexible, patient, and helpful.
combo	He always made sure we were settled and had everything we needed each day before he left.
combo	He catered the trip to our interests and needs and kept us on time for activities, making sure we were set up with the best trackers and experiences we could have.
combo	It was obvious how passionate David is for his job, the countries, and the company.
combo	These trips are not cheap, due largely to the permit costs for tracking the various animals, but it was the best money my mother and I could have spent for a truly once-in-a-lifetime trip between those two beautiful countries."
combo	"My husband and I booked a two-day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa during our recent stay in Rwanda.
combo	Our tour included a hike up Bisoke, one of the volancoes in Volcanoes National Park, and a trek to see the mountain gorillas.
combo	Our driver, Bob, was very knowledgable and helpful.
combo	He picked us up in Kigali and drove us to the park, and then to the trailheads.
combo	Guides hired by the government lead both of the hikes.
combo	We opted for a mid-range ""deluxe"" hotel, where we ended up being the only guests.
combo	It was a nice place though a bit eerie with the staff only catering to us.
combo	My one complaint, and why I am giving Gorilla Trek Africa, is that I didn't feel they fully prepared us for what we needed.
combo	They sent us a packing list but it wasn't clear that we needed to provide our own lunch and food for the treks, something that was an issue on our first day.
combo	That said, I would not hesitate to book another tour with Gorilla Trek Africa, but I would be sure to double check exactly what I need and what they are providing before I go."
combo	Excellent place to visit for a week break.
combo	u can see the world famous but fast diminishing tribe of gorillas.
combo	"Uganda is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country and William, who is “made in Uganda” welcomed us with an open heart and open arms.
combo	His love of his country showed at every turn.
combo	Gorilla trek Africa, William and the people of Uganda are incredibly hospitable.
combo	We did the 10 day safari through Entebbe to Mburo>Bwindi>>Queen Elizabeth>Kanyanchu> and finally Murchison Falls and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
combo	Some highlights include the hippos, gorillas, chimps, elephants, lions, and giraffes just to name a few.
combo	It was truly thrilling to see.
combo	Our guide, William was EXTREMELY knowledgeable and well spoken and went out of his way to tell us special things here and there.
combo	We learned about birds, Ugandan Street food, the culture of the people, religion, etc.
combo	This particular tour was a whirlwind.
combo	We are from the US and we only get 2-3 weeks of vacation time.
combo	It was perfect for us and our time needs.
combo	We got A LOT in.
combo	If you have more time, you could spend 2-3 days in each place instead of 1-2.
combo	That and the insects would be my ONLY complaints.
combo	Which wasn’t anyone’s fault.
combo	I loved every inch of it.
combo	Even driving through the country on the bumpy red clay roads with the wind in my hair and African sun on my skin.
combo	The smells, sights and sounds of Africa will be with me forever.
combo	Thank you Gorilla trek Africa and William for a truly unforgettable experience that will be in our memories and hearts forever!!"
combo	"This was too good to be true I thought, a company that answers your e-mails promptly and giving you a custom made itinerary just as you wish.
combo	Well this was exactly what Nelson from Gorilla Trek Africa did..... and then they gave us Gavis Moliika, our guide, driver, photographer and friend forever.
combo	Gavis made this trip!
combo	He is the best fun loving, caring, trustworthy guide you can get.
combo	We have no words to explain how much we loved doing this trip with him.
combo	Make sure if you book your gorilla safari with Gorilla Trek Africa to ask for Gavis.
combo	You will get much more than you could expect from any guide."
combo	"Many thanks Nziza Safaris, we enjoyed touring Kigali with you.
combo	The welcome, knowledge and professionalism of your tour guides made for a great experience.
combo	Your vehicle was very comfortable, and we all enjoyed the day interacting with your guides and taking in Kigali and surrounds."
combo	"In most Hollywood movies about Africa, particularly the ones in which the explorers embark looking for a humongous ape, you see the adventurers preparing for months.
combo	This is not the case when I first contacted GT.
combo	Nelson wrote back immediately.
combo	Answered impeccably all the questions and in a couple of days I was crossing the Uganda border.
combo	After a while, I was swallowed by the jungle of the “Bwindi Impenetrable forest”.
combo	My guide, Asaph, was very fluent in English and his knowledge of the animals (particularly his ability to see them from a great distance) made the trip quite enjoyable.
combo	I chose the budget option.
combo	It is important to say that the hotel was in the hillside of the mountain and the cold made it feel like you were camping in luxury.
combo	If you don´t like low temperatures, choose the other slightly higher priced options.
combo	Like others already suggested, asking for a porter, even if you think that kryptonite is your only obstacle in the world, is worth it because the money will help the little town you will see close by the hotel.
combo	It is important to add that by choosing the best of all tour companies you not only get an unexpected amount of professional security and the promise to see the gorillas (yes, they won´t quit until you are in front of these ethereal and gentle beings) also offers the opportunity to help protect them for future generations, because a big part of what you pay goes to the park, the veterinarians and the rangers that keep Bwindi a safe haven for the biggest and most gentle apes on earth."
combo	"Our experience with Gorilla Trek Africa was wonderful.
combo	Prompt and easy communication, secure online payment arrangements, and incredible on-site experiences.
combo	Our guide Gavis picked us up at our hotel, showed us some highlights of Kigali, and then took us off to the main adventure - Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park.
combo	Gavis was great company and informative.
combo	He helped us negotiate the border crossing, and seemed incredibly comfortable working with people in both Rwanda and Uganda - it was nice to see him be greeted with enthusiasm everywhere we went.
combo	The Bwindi Jungle Lodge was a great accommodation choice with its beautiful view, caring staff and charming facilities.
combo	The ""African massage"" on the roads in Uganda was all part of the experience, and one more thing that Gavis undertook with care, skill and good humor.
combo	The beauty of Uganda was something that will stick with us for a long time, and the trekking experience was everything we hoped for and more.
combo	Gavis worked with the park rangers to ensure we saw different families on each of our two days of trekking and we feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend time observing the gorillas eating, playing and interacting.
combo	The little gorilla who ran over to hug our legs gave us another unforgettable moment.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was a great choice for us!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa has given my family and I the most incredible experience in Rwanda.
combo	Eric was our guide and he was with us the entire 4 days we were here.
combo	He waited for us at the airport even though our flight was delayed coming into Kigali and escorted us to our hotel in a wonderful classic safari Land Cruiser you picture when you’re in Africa.
combo	He picked us up the next morning and recommended we visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and we absolutely did not regret it.
combo	After the museum, he was generous to answer all of our questions about Rwandan history.
combo	He was knowledgeable about all things Rwanda and we learned so much on our drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Everything was organized for us when we got there.
combo	We scheduled a 2 day gorilla trek and they had arranged the passes well ahead of time so it was flawless upon our arrival.
combo	The 5 Volcanoes Boutique Hotel was wonderful to stay at.
combo	They are fully prepared for trekking excursions and have a great relationship with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Both trekking days were unbelievable and distinctly unique.
combo	We were able to see 2 different families of gorillas.
combo	It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	I would recommend this outfitter to anyone in the world.
combo	They work with you 100% of the time and truly want you to experience the wonder and beauty that is Rwanda and the Mountain Gorillas."
combo	"Nelson worked with me to plan a gorilla trek.
combo	We ended up with Uganda due to costs and had an adventure of a lifetime.
combo	Our guide, Asaph, also made the trip enjoyable.
combo	The Bwindi Jungle Lodge where Nelson booked us was amazing from the service, to the rooms, the view, the food -prepared for us with many options.
combo	I asked Nelson many many questions and he answered them all and we got what we expected and more.
combo	The gorilla trek is out of this world with a porter a must.
combo	They carry your bag and help you over branches, rocks, and logs.
combo	They make sure you don’t fall.
combo	Seeing the gorillas in their home is something I can’t even explain.
combo	I hope to come back to East Africa soon and Nelson will be my first call to help me plan seeing everything I missed."
combo	"Thank you to Nelson and Bob who made this a trip of a lifetime.
combo	I chose Gorilla Trek Africa after reading the reviews on tripadvisor and I am glad I trusted my instinct.
combo	Nelson was brilliant in his patience in answering all my questions before starting and during booking - it was very easy.
combo	My guide for four days, Bob, was intelligent and funny and I enjoyed his company and learnt a great deal from him.
combo	I was sorry to say goodbye.
combo	I booked the four day gorilla trek - two days gorilla trekking in Uganda and one day with the golden monkeys in Rwanda.
combo	The drive from Kigali to Bwindi was around five hours and it is a stunning drive.
combo	The hotel in Bwindi was two minutes from the gorilla trekking and that was simply incredible - the first day blazing sunshine, the second rain like I have never seen so I got to see the gorillas in very different conditions.
combo	This is not a cheap holiday but worth it in every sense.
combo	My one word of caution - the Community Walk in Uganda costs ten dollars but it is was effectively organised begging - three dances by different groups and then they put a bucket in front of you.
combo	Maybe naivety on my part but I was not warned in advance and did not take my wallet and felt very uncomfortable.
combo	The people were amazing and so welcoming and I do not blame them - the community walk guide (completely separate from Gorilla Trek Africa) was the problem.
combo	He told me to just tell them he would bring the money from my hotel -- a $10 walk cost $70.
combo	I would rather have just given money to help the school be built rather than this.
combo	Overall this was one of the best trips of my life and if you are thinking of doing it then take the plunge, you will not regret."
combo	"I did the 3 day gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
combo	Nelson, who booked my tour was very helpful and was quick to respond to my emails whenever I had a question.
combo	My guide was Chris, he was very nice and friendly and made sure I was comfortable and having a good time.
combo	Seeing the gorillas up close in their natural habitat was really amazing.
combo	I did a lot of research before booking this tour and I’m glad I chose Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"Most incredible thing we have ever done!
combo	We ask to visit the closest family.
combo	We were not in shape.
combo	Everyone made sure we had good camera shots, didn’t hurry us in any way."
combo	"The four day trip to Uganda and Rwanda exeeded our expectations, perfect from the beginning to the end.
combo	Not only the car and equipment, especially the very knowledgable and friendly tour guide, but also the excellent choice of locations and perfect organisation leave not other choice than awarding the highest possible score.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	Had an outstanding trip watching gorillas in Bwindi NP and relaxing at the shores of Lake Bunyonyi.
combo	Our guide Eric did a fantastic job and had a profound knowledge of birds and other animals.
combo	Best recommendations from us.
combo	"We can not say enough about what a fabulous experience we had.
combo	We participated in a Rwanda-Uganda primate safari, and each day was better than the last.
combo	Our driver was Sam and we trekked for golden monkeys, gorillas, and chimps.
combo	We also saw the cultural sights of Kigali and Kampala.
combo	The resorts were excellent as well.
combo	Emails were responded to in a timely fashion, and we would definitely recommend to friends and family.
combo	Thanks Gorilla Trek!"
combo	"I’d originally written to Gorilla Trek Africa to enquire about tracking in Rwanda.
combo	As permit prices have increased in Rwanda, Nelson emailed me back offering a 2-day trek in Uganda instead, which would save us 900USD per person.
combo	Initially hesitant, we decided to go for it.
combo	I didn’t really have any questions before the trip but Nelson was always quick to respond when we did send an email.
combo	On the day of the trip our guide, Geoffrey Atwebembeire, arrived at our guesthouse in Kigali at 9am sharp.
combo	He was friendly and welcoming, helped us with our bags and welcomed us to the super clean 4x4 that we’d spend much of the next 48 hours in.
combo	Geoffrey had stocked the car well with bottled water and we made a brief stop at the Gorilla Trek Africa office in Kigali to pay our balance.
combo	We had a beautiful drive through the luscious Rwandan countryside.
combo	We crossed the border into Uganda smoothly with East Africa tourist visas, all the while being informed about places of interest from Geoffrey.
combo	We stopped for lunch in Uganda at a traditional African buffet restaurant, which was delicious, before arriving at Gorilla Mist Camp in the late afternoon.
combo	Our room was clean and cosy and when we went to bed after a delicious dinner with a great view, we found hot water bottles in our beds, which was a nice touch.
combo	The following day Geoffrey drove us to the briefing centre before we started the trek (armed with delicious packed lunches from Gorilla Mist Camp).
combo	We hiked for a couple of hours before that magical moment with the gorillas occurred and we spent an hour of special time together.
combo	It was amazing.
combo	I won’t say any more.
combo	Geoffrey then drove us back to our next destination (Gisenyi), which was extremely helpful as it prevented us having to go back to Kigali and then get a transfer.
combo	If you’re thinking of booking a trip with Gorilla Trek Africa then go for it!
combo	Cannot recommend this organisation enough.
combo	Geoffrey was professional, friendly, knowledgeable and a safe driver!
combo	Thank you for a memorable 48 hours!
combo	We will recommend to anyone else we know visiting East Africa."
combo	"After planning this trip for 3 years and specifically the trek to Volcanoes NP, the pressure was on!
combo	Our guide Gavis ensured we had a memorable experience including arranging for us to trek Pablo’s group which was my dream.
combo	All our accommodations were wonderful and diverse and Gavis’ knowledge of the wildlife and local areas was impressive.
combo	Thank you GTA for helping to make my dream a reality."
combo	"I normally wait to book a tour until I arrive in country in order to meet guides face to face before committing.
combo	I have learned the hard way that it is not uncommon for operators to offer one thing and not follow through with what was initially agreed upon, only to be stuck with it because I'd already paid and it's the morning of the tour with no time to waste.
combo	For this trip I booked online and thankfully this was not the case with GorillaTrek Africa.TripAdvisor reviews for GTA helped me narrow down my choices, and GTA's attentiveness to my inquiries clinched my decision.
combo	Nelson was the primary organizer and from the beginning he was prompt with his responses and very helpful and patient with my questions.
combo	We were able to tailor the trip to the exact places we wanted to see (Shoebills in Mabamba, Chimps in Kibale, QENP, Gorillas in Bwindi), at a competitive price.
combo	Our guide Robert met us promptly at our hotel in Entebbe (Secrets Hotel- simple, clean, very nice staff) and showed us everything we had hoped to see.
combo	Robert was very attentive to our comfort and flexible when we wanted to view something a little longer.
combo	He was well connected with the locals in each area and obviously knows Uganda very well.
combo	I especially appreciated his careful driving, we felt safe and at ease the entire trip.
combo	I would not say that Robert is a highly skilled interpretive guide, as his knowledge and conveyance of information of natural and cultural history could be better, but he makes up for it with a calm, friendly demeanor and with the pride he takes in his work.
combo	He truly seemed to care that we were enjoying his country.
combo	I could sense that there was a measure of pride for him to show us the best of Uganda, as it is a beautiful, friendly country often overshadowed by Kenya and Tanzania.
combo	The shoebill, chimps and especially the gorillas are awe inspiring and undoubtedly worth the time and money to see.
combo	Queen Elizabeth NP is not quite on par with some of the other parks of East Africa, but a good stop over between Kibale and Bwindi if you have time.
combo	Thank you Nelson, Robert, and William for helping to make our trip so enjoyable.
combo	We wouldn't hesitate to book with Gorilla Trek Africa again.
combo	Tip: Be sure to check your passport after each border crossing to ensure that they don't stamp ""finished"" on your East African Visa.
combo	This can be problematic if you're proceeding to other countries.
combo	Although tipping may not be customary in many countries, many of the local guides and rangers work very hard for little pay to protect the natural treasures we tourists admire so much.
combo	They are passionate about conservation, and it is often more than just a job.
combo	Please consider a gratuity to recognize their efforts and let them know we appreciate what they do."
combo	"I was a little hesitant to wire money ahead of time but decided to do it after reading the reviews here.
combo	The communication with Nelson was great.
combo	We arrived at the Kigali airport still hoping that someone would be there to meet us and low and behold we were met by Aseph.
combo	He asked us if we needed anything and then we were off to the first of two hotels; one in Uganda and the other in Rwanda.
combo	The drive was awesome.
combo	The lodge in Uganda was great and only a few minutes from the park.
combo	Aseph took us to the park the next day where we hiked a short distance and had one of the most beautiful experiences of our lives.
combo	We interacted with the gorillas for an hour.
combo	A few came up to us and either walked a few inches from us or actually touched us.
combo	The tour was well organized and easy.
combo	Both Nelson and Aseph went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable.
combo	When we arrived back in Kigali, we found all the roads to the airport had been closed for the arrival of several African leaders for some sort of summit.
combo	Aseph worked some magic and got us to the airport on time-driving down roads that were closed to all other traffic.
combo	Don't know how he did it but we made it on time and continued our African adventure.
combo	Great experience and highly recommended."
combo	"The day starts at 5am, you’re driven from your overnight lodge and taken to the volcanoes National Park for registration and a briefing about the Gorillas and the trek.
combo	You’re put into different groups depending on your ability and level of fitness.
combo	The group I was in was level one the easiest of the 3 levels, therefore the trek wasn’t as bad as I had anticipated.
combo	I opted for a Porter who stayed with me until we reached the trekker’s on the outskirts of the forest.
combo	The extra $10 for a Porter was worth every penny, he was supportive and encouraging, holding my left hand to stabilise and prevent me from falling on the slippery bits.
combo	He carried my bags and waited until I came out from the forest after seeing the gorillas to take me back down.
combo	I also had a trekking stick that was in my right hand which are free to use and helped me balance and gave a bit more support.
combo	The altitude can make it difficult going up but the Guides stop to allow you to catch your breath.
combo	There are two Guides one at the front and one at the back they tell you about the wildlife, plants and the surrounding areas.
combo	The Trekkers and the Guides than take you into the forest to the Gorillas clearing.
combo	Before leaving your overnight lodge you can hire a pair of garters for $5 to prevent mud from getting on the bottom of your trouser legs.
combo	You may want to consider purchasing a pair of garters before going to Rwanda.
combo	You will also need a pair of gloves, good walking boots and a long sleeve top.
combo	Lower pressure at the higher altitudes causes the temperature to be colder also when in the forest your arms can get scratched on the branches.
combo	When we reached the clearing where the gorillas were, we are given an hour to be with them.
combo	The silverback was far bigger than I imagined, there was a mother with her tiny baby that looked almost human.
combo	The young 3 year old went off on his own a few times to eat than would come back wanting attention from the silverback but the silverback was being groomed by two large males and didn’t seem that interested in what the youngster was doing.
combo	I felt over whelmed just looking at them, I wanted the world to stop and see these incredible beings.
combo	At times we were so close within arm’s reach, I stopped taking photographs and just watched, I didn’t want to miss a movement or a look.
combo	I was crouched down soaking everything up, experiencing being with these magical creatures in their own surroundings and really seeing them, but not through the lens of a camera.
combo	A massive thank you to the Porters, Trekkers, Guides’ and all those who work for the Dian Fossey Foundation.
combo	Who protect, love and make it possible for us to see these magnificent beauties.
combo	When I returned to England I adopted a Gorilla called Kundurwanda and also an adoption of the historic silverback Digit.
combo	I will continue to adopt as a way of donating.
combo	While in Rwanda I purchased a beautifully made trekking stick and was given a Gorilla trekking certificate.
combo	Ever since watching the film 'Gorillas in the Mist with Sigoumey Weaver' I wanted to see the Gorillas in their natural surroundings and I wasn’t disappointed, it was the best thing I have ever done.
combo	I hope to go back one day and see those beautiful humbling gentle giants again."
combo	"I booked a five days tour with my 14 year old son who normally is not too keen on walking long tours or trekking .. above all not with his mom.. but I must say.. this was hilarious.
combo	Bernard was our tour guide and he did not only gave us an amazing overview over the two countries we visited with him (Uganda and Rwanda) but he also made this trip unforgettable by taking care of my son.. he bought him fruits on the road to test (sugar cane and oranges and bananas and sweet corn..) all we needed was taken care of.. such as vegetarian food.. the shortest walk with the closest group.. Bernard even found us some lions in the trees in QENP and a leopard also in the trees..it could not have been better... thank you so much Bernard, thank you so much Nelson for everything!!"
combo	"Wow.
combo	Fantastic time.
combo	We had the pleasure of having Geoffrey take us as our guide.
combo	He was very patient in picking us up from Kigali, Rwanda and driving us to Bwindi in Uganda (7 hours).
combo	He also did a great job of making sure we were comfortable and crossed the border okay (Pro tip: Before you come, just get an East African tourist visa for $100 so you don't have to buy a Rwandan one every time you enter).
combo	Price: We paid $1450 for 2 people for a 2 day gorilla trek (meaning one day of transport, next day trek and leave back to Rwanda) and we stayed at the Gorilla Safari Lodge which was a Luxury stay.
combo	For Rwanda, one person basically bought all the permits and jacked up the price to $900 per person because he's planning to build a stay close by.
combo	Quality: Fantastic time.
combo	Geoffrey made sure we were in the short line so we could see Gorillas and get back to Kigali in time.
combo	We were lucky and saw two gorilla families meeting and the males showing dominance.
combo	Then we saw a little baby gorilla and it got so close it tried to pull a woman's sweater and fell off.
combo	Quantity: 3 silverbacks and 3 babies, but one baby up close.
combo	Atmosphere: Beautiful country and landscape.
combo	Staff: Geoffrey and the tour guides were very professional and great."
combo	"First off I would like to say how happy I am to see how well these gorillas are protected.
combo	This is a great example of wildlife conservation and animals being able to life freely in their natural environments.
combo	We went on four gorilla treks here and one golden monkey tour.
combo	Each tour is guided by one to two guides that give you a briefing of the Gorilla family you are going to be seeing that day.
combo	These guides seemed very knowledgable and passionate about their jobs.
combo	Seeing these magnificent creatures took my breath away.
combo	You really feel connected to nature in these moments.
combo	The trek themselves can be challenging, but some our easier then others.
combo	They try and match people up in groups based on physical capabilities.
combo	Being there and spending time with the Gorillas was really life changing.
combo	I really think this is something worth seeing!"
combo	"I had the absolute time of my life on my 5-day trip from Entebbe to Kigali, trekking with chimps and gorillas, seeing lions in QENP, and much more!
combo	I've written a very thorough review with lots of photos on my blog (She Roams Wild) that goes into details, but let me just say I'm so grateful to Nelson for helping me organize this trip, and to Asaph for being such an incredible guide.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa is nothing but professional, and I can't recommend them highly enough.
combo	I'm so, so happy I chose this company, and would love to take another trip with them in the future!"
combo	"I signed up with Gorilla Trek Africa about 9 months ago for our trip this past January.
combo	I'm not going to address the gorilla experience (AMAZING with two little guys wanting to be with me!
combo	but rather this company.
combo	Our guide was Krish.
combo	There were only two of us on this trip, and we were truly treated like royalty.
combo	After our rather long gorilla trek in Uganda (7 hours total) my friend's shoe had pretty much fallen apart.
combo	So Krish stopped at a village en route, found a young fellow working away under a tree repairing lots of shoes.
combo	Krish explained our situation and the youngster immediately took the shoe and did a job that made the shoe look better than it had when brand new.
combo	All at a cost of about $3.
combo	None of our requests were out of line for Krish.
combo	When we had a few moments to ourselves our tireless Krish took the car off for a much needed wash.
combo	He was flexible with our schedule - which we wanted.
combo	We learned so much about both Rwanda and Uganda, village life, family life, schools.
combo	So much more beneficial than having an aloof driver/guide.
combo	We laughed, talked politics (always in a pleasant way).
combo	Of course this was a trip of a life time with the trekking to see golden monkeys, gorillas and chimpanzees.
combo	But I will forever thank my lucky stars the day I stumbled across Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	Thank you Krish!"
combo	"I arranged this trip quite last minute and was traveling alone.
combo	Arranging the logistics of the trip with Nelson went very smooth and I was picked up promptly by my driver Krish at the allocated time.
combo	The excursion was brilliant.
combo	I was travelling alone and Krish looked after me very well.
combo	A 4-5 hour drive across the border to Uganda, we stopped for lunch and then checked into my accommodation which was beautiful.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was amazing and then I was taken back to the lodge to shower and have lunch and then driven back to Kigali.
combo	Everything was organised meticulously and I very felt safe throughout the whole trip.
combo	I would 100% recommend Gorilla Trek Africa (and already have done to other colleagues travelling to the region.)"
combo	"A friend of mine and I took an excursion from Kigali to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest in Uganda, organized by Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our guide and driver, Geoffrey, was excellent: professional, attentive, knowledgeable.
combo	He took care of every logistical detail.
combo	We were on a tight schedule, flying back to the US the evening of the day of the trek, but everything went smoothly thanks to Geoffrey.
combo	I highly recommend this tour company."
combo	"We spent 5 days in beautiful and fascinating Rwanda, transported and guided by wonderful people of Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	All the arrangements were great, Kigali and the countryside were fascinating, and of course time with the gorillas is almost indescribable.
combo	Eric and our other guides were so gracious, and so informed as they drove and guided us through the city, up into the hills and Volcanoes National Park, and on several side ventures."
combo	"My husband and I did a 10 day Rwanda-Uganda double gorilla safari last month with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	It was a 5 star experience from start to finish - a totally enjoyable way to check gorilla trekking off of our bucket lisst!!
combo	We toured Kigali, visited Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla and golden monkey trekking, went to Queen Elizabeth National Park, did chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, and our last stop was Murchison Falls National Park before departing Entebbe.
combo	First to review the booking process.
combo	Nelson was absolutely incredible throughout the entire process.
combo	He made sure our itinerary included everything we wanted to experience the most during our time there and was honest, helpful, and incredibly patient in answering my MILLION questions about what we might experience in both countries.
combo	He answered all of my emails promptly and provided suggestions and options for every detail.
combo	I also spoke with GTA's US representative, Bill, on the phone and via email on several occasions.
combo	He was incredibly informative and helpful in selecting activities as well.
combo	Nelson provided lodging options based on three different budget ranges, I believe we selected the luxury option for each location and we were incredibly pleased with all of our lodging selections.
combo	Each location was clean, comfortable, had a friendly staff, and great food.
combo	I would feel comfortable saying that probably any place they offer as an option would be a good one.
combo	My only suggestion to them is that it would have been helpful to know that during our community walk, we would have the opportunity to sponsor the local children's education/donate money to the community school - we don't carry much cash when we travel because we've had past experiences being mugged (not in Africa, we felt safe the whole time in Rwanda and Uganda) and felt terrible not having enough money in our cash budget to help them out.
combo	Our guide found us an ATM after, but since the credit card machines at the lodges didn't seem to ever work, we went through cash very quickly and were hesitant to give up what little we had.
combo	By far the greatest part of our trip was our guide, Chris ""Muhabura"" :-).
combo	Even the longest 9 hour drive to Murchison Falls went quickly with his friendly conversation.
combo	Chris was very knowledgeable about history and culture of both Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	He also has worked to habituate 3 gorilla families in Uganda and was full of knowledge and stories about these amazing animals that were the highlight of our trip.
combo	He made sure we visited what he believed to be the best families, ones that were incredibly comfortable with humans (we heard other travelers say their families seemed more shy or nervous, ours either ignored us completely or just looked over and ambled by every now and then) and had very active members (we saw tons of playful babies).
combo	Chris also shared many stories and information about his life growing up in Uganda, his family, and the culture around the mountain gorillas.
combo	He is a wonderful person and we enjoyed his company very much!
combo	We felt completely comfortable in the vehicle and around the towns and parks the whole time, and we had some awesome game viewing experiences with him driving - including a newborn giraffe, lionesses in a candelabra tree, and lionesses hunting.
combo	Our itinerary involved A LOT of driving time to get from park to park, which I knew ahead of time.
combo	It got to be exhausting at times, especially with the bad - BUMPY and dusty - roads, but it was worth it to see all the places we visited and the landscape was gorgeous along the way.
combo	Chris stopped at interesting places for rest along the way and helped us buy fruit from roadside vendors a few times, this broke up the monotony of the journey.
combo	I would recommend visiting Rwanda and Uganda with Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone and everyone.
combo	My husband and I found both countries incredibly beautiful, safe, interesting, and full of kind people that are SO appreciative of you being there to support their tourism economy.
combo	The wildlife experiences were the stuff of dreams and Chris, Nelson, Bill, and everyone at GTA were amazing in making our dreams come true!!!
combo	Thanks to you all for an amazing experience... Chris, we look forward to seeing you again soon!!!"
combo	"We had a fantastic time in Uganda & Rwanda thanks to David, our driver&guide, and Nelson and the team at Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	We just told them what we wanted to see and how long and they tailor made trip for us!
combo	David went out of his way during the game drives to ensure we see the wildlife an the national park (went to Queen Elizabeth in Uganda which was incredible) and we saw much more than other travelers who went with other providers!
combo	The knowledge and contacts they have gathered over the years is remakable and ensures you to never miss a highlight (such as lions during sunset).
combo	The lodges were great too and the Gorilla Trek in Bwindi was just unforgettable!
combo	Thank you again David for everything: as said- you know best :D"
combo	"I've only just got around to writing this review, but have to say a huge thank you to our guide Arthur for making our Rwanda/Uganda experience so memorable.
combo	Our trip was meticulously planned, our accomodation lovely, food fantastic and wildlife encounters out of this world!
combo	If you are hesitating about parting with the money like we were, don't!
combo	Do it!
combo	It truely is a once in a lifetime experience and unforgettable.
combo	We went at the end of May/June and crowds were small and only three of us on our gorilla trek, so consider going at the turn of low and peak season."
combo	"The process couldn’t have been any easier.
combo	Nelson helped organized a short trip to Rwanda for me.
combo	He kept a constant, clear and effective line of communication via e-mail from booking to the start of the trip.
combo	Eric is an amazing host and driver.
combo	He collected me at the airport and pointed out key buildings around Kigali as we drove towards Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The drive is long but Eric tells great stories to make it seem shorter.
combo	Have your camera ready because the drive is also scenic.
combo	The next day, Eric arranged a gorilla group and hike tailored to my specifications.
combo	The trek and hour with the gorillas is an amazing experience.
combo	You will not forget the goosebumps when you encounter a few that decide to walk within a couple of meters in front of you.
combo	Later on in the day, Eric arranged a special tour that involved a non-tourist focused village.
combo	It was an authentic look of how the people lived their lives day to day.
combo	Besides the gorillas, the interaction with the locals was the highlight of my trip.
combo	I must have looked back at the video on the plane, at least a dozen times of me dancing with the people.
combo	It brought true joy to my heart.
combo	Before the trip back to the airport, we drove to the genocide meuseum in Kigali.
combo	It was originally closed off due to a state visit for the President of Zambia.
combo	Eric worked his magic, negotiated a bit and got me inside.
combo	I want to thank Gorilla Trek Africa for assisting me of checking this trip off my bucket list.
combo	I felt their price was competitive and fair.
combo	Eric and Nelson were top rank.
combo	Ask for Eric as a host and driver.
combo	You will not regret choosing this team for your tour!"
combo	"I had a great trip with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Elias was my excellent guide for the journey.
combo	His expertise and connections with people, from park rangers to border guards to local businesses along the route, made the travel very comfortable.
combo	On the way to Uganda from Kigali, we stopped at a local milk bar to taste the amazing (pasteurized, don't be nervous) milk that is a staple in the local diet.
combo	We stopped at a local restaurant buffet popular with locals and travellers where you can taste a wide variety of foods.
combo	Play it safe with beans and rice and beef stew or be adventurous with stewed goat including some interesting chunks of offal.
combo	We also stopped at a local bar so I could taste some rustic sorghum beer.
combo	Elias gets you to the gorilla briefing station early because everyone ""has an issue"".
combo	This means that all of the guides are trying to get their clients into a preferred group based on their fitness, itinerary for the next day, and other preferences.
combo	My issue was that we had to cross the border back into Rwanda for that night's hotel and Elias got me into a group that had a very short hike.
combo	I messed it up by agreeing to switch groups with another hiker and ended up on a seven hour hike.
combo	Then I badly sprained my ankle an hour into the hike.
combo	I saw the gorillas and it was amazing but I was in a lot of pain.
combo	The Five Volcanoes Hotel in Rwanda was great.
combo	I hobbled out of the car and there was some there to take my shoes off for me, give me sandals, and ask me about the injury.
combo	They organized a leg and foot massage in my room, dinner to be delivered to the room, ice for my ankle, hot water bottles for the ankle, and a wake up delivery of coffee for the morning.
combo	I thought I was going to have to forfeit my expensive gorilla permit for the next day because of the injury, but with all the rehab and rest, I was able to get to the gorilla briefing facility where Elias worked his magic and got me into an easy group once again.
combo	The gorilla experience in Rwanda was even more amazing.
combo	We were supposed to go to the Pygmy cultural center after the hike but the hotel was so nice that I decided to just rest my ankle by the pool and enjoy the view of the mountains.
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for your tour."
combo	"I rate Grilla Trek on the top of the best for so many reason including our wonderful guide William KiryeI.
combo	I can not say enough things about this company and what they provided us for this once in a life time adventure.
combo	After doing quite a bit of on line research while planning my trip I saw that many companies offered basically the same itinerary.
combo	The difference between many of the other companies and Gorilla Trek were many were twice as expensive while not offering anything more.
combo	I think part of that had to do with Gorilla Trek being an African based company.
combo	Locally owned and operated, which I considered a major plus.
combo	Gorilla Trek also had somebody from the states call me who was very knowledgable to answer any questions I had and he stayed available as a liaison.
combo	Most of the other companies did not call me all when I inquired and when they did had such thick accents it was hard to communicate.
combo	Bill in the states calling me had a big impact on my choosing this company over others.
combo	Once we arrived we would be picked up by an exceptional young man by the name of William.
combo	Our guide for the two weeks we were there.
combo	William was warm, welcoming knowledgable, professional, funny and a delight to spend our two weeks with.
combo	We felt we had made a life long friend in William.
combo	He was very protective of us not that we needed it Uganda seemed very safe but William made sure we were taken care of at all times.
combo	His knowledge of his countries culture, history, geology, geography and the incredible wild life he had was hard to fathom in a 27 year old man.
combo	William navigated the bumpy dirt roads that we drove on through over a thousand villages like the pro that he is.
combo	William has a passion for birds and could name by site sound, nesting behavior etc about 80% of the approximately 1,100 birds that make Uganda their home.
combo	The experience of being in Uganda itself and going to 5 national parks seeing the animals and getting to know the people of course was unforgettable."
combo	"We trekked the Sabyinyo group consisting of 17 gorillas including the oldest known Silverback in Rwanda.
combo	To watch them up close as they ate, played, chest pounded, interacted, communicated, etc.
combo	was mesmerizing.
combo	An adolescent female grabbed my leg, briefly, like it was a tree branch and later brushed up against me two other times.
combo	I felt so lucky!!!
combo	Although we had seen so many wonderful, memorable things during our African vacation, the mountain gorilla trek was by far the BEST!!!"
combo	"Trip of a lifetime, organised well in advance but the wait was worth it.
combo	Used a specialist firm (Expert Africa who were excellent) to arrange everything but local guide Alex was fantastic - drove round pretty much the whole country in his company and a great source of knowledge.
combo	Beautiful country and worth the trouble getting there and the inoculations required.
combo	Incredible trekking into the Forrest to see the gorillas - amazing experience.
combo	Not suited for kids in my view.
combo	Couldn’t believe we could get so close and whilst we had to stay back you can’t tell a Gorilla that and they seemed as interested in us as we were them and were so calm in our company.
combo	You have to be in awe of these creatures - truly incredible and one for the bucket list.
combo	Hire a local porter to carry your bags and put some money back in the economy - only $10 or so.
combo	Any photos will just not do it justice."
combo	"Just got back from a 10 day trip in Uganda.
combo	We didn't know what to expect as it was our first time in Africa, but we really LOVED the experience.
combo	We used Kampala as our home base and made excursions to Bwindi for the Gorilla trecking, Ginga to raft on the Nile river and to Murchison falls for a safari.
combo	All of these activities were amazing.
combo	Everything was well planned and organized.
combo	We spent a lot of time driving around to each of these places, but our excellent guide Gavis kept things interesting with numourous stories.
combo	I'd highly recommend booking a trip with this company!"
combo	"It is the most amazing experience I’ve ever had.
combo	I loved my trek-although I was in worse shape than I’d realized (thanks to a sinus infection) and should’ve opted for an easier trek.
combo	Prepare to get muddy, hire (at least one) porter, and enjoy being face to face with amazing creatures.
combo	To be honest, I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy the trip.
combo	I went because I could & am so glad I did.
combo	This will doubtless be one of the best experiences of my life."
combo	"Just finished a spectacular 10-day trip with Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	It really couldn’t have been better - we visited the gorillas, went rafting on the Nile and visited Murchison Falls for a few days safari.
combo	Everything massively exceeded my boyfriend and my expectations.
combo	Quite a few long car journeys, but we knew there would be from the start as it was the only way to do all the activities we wanted, and it was totally worth it!
combo	The beautiful Ugandan landscape helped keep the drives interesting, and we were fortunate enough to have Gavis as our guide who was truly excellent.
combo	Not only is he just genuinely fun to be around, but he’s also very open and eager to share interesting curiosa about ugandan culture and history.
combo	Definitely a trip and tour company we’d strongly recommend!
combo	Very professional and well organised.
combo	A big thanks to Nelson and the whole team too!
combo	:)"
combo	"I cannot say enough good things about Gorilla Trek Africa and our guide driver Luchi Williams.
combo	We saw so much more than we expected on our tour; three groups of gorillas with a total of 41 individuals; chimpanzees, hundreds of elephants, hippos, buffalo, kob and water buck; lions (including tree lions), zebra, golden monkeys, velvet monkeys, blue monkeys, baboons, rhinos, leopards, giraffe, Patas monkeys, black and white Colobus monkeys, and many more.
combo	William was the perfect match for us.
combo	He was a safe driver, spoke easy to understand English, and patiently answered hundreds of questions we had on the culture, wildlife, agriculture, appropriate tippling, etc.
combo	He knew of my interest in Ankole cattle and drove off the beaten path to get me some great photos of these beautiful animals.
combo	He made sure we had lots of water and plenty of travel stops.
combo	He helped us get treks appropriate for our abilities.
combo	He always checked out our accommodations to make sure they were to our liking.
combo	GTA's prices were very competitive, and Nelson was always quick to respond to all my inquiries."
combo	"We (2 couples) had a great time.
combo	Our guide for the week plus was Fred.
combo	Fred is a wonderful guide and driver.
combo	He was well knowleable about the Rwanda and Uganda.The roads were under some construction and Fred avoided a lot of potholes and such.
combo	airlines failed to deliver my luggage and refused to deliver it to our Gorilla Camp some miles from the airport.
combo	Fred and the owners of the camp talk to the airport by tele and they released my luggage.
combo	The Camp staff drove back to the airport to get my luggage.
combo	Fred is a good guy and a good guide.
combo	Both countries are beautiful and so are its residents.
combo	I will not forget this trip in that we got close to goreillas,chimpanzee,golden monkeys and rhinoceros."
combo	"My friend and I had a once in a lifetime experience on our 5 day Trek.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was very professional throughout the entire process.
combo	Nelson, who I dealt with for booking was excellent to work with.
combo	Our driver, William was helpful, punctual, and professional.
combo	He helped with extras including taking us for local currency, taking me to get my hiking boot fixed after the sole fell off, and generally making our experience even more enjoyable.
combo	We covered a lot of territory in the vehicle in 5 days and we greatly appreciated William's driving skills.
combo	Our hikes to see the Gorilla's was all and more I had hoped for.
combo	Just being in the forest and on the mountain habitat was amazing, but actually being close up with the Gorilla families was everything.
combo	I'm still reliving it, and thankfully have wonderful pictures for my memories.
combo	Thank you Nelson and the team for making our dreams come true."
combo	"We just returned from a two week trip and it was absolutely amazing.
combo	Our guide Gavis was beyond great.
combo	Extremely knowledgeable and a pleasure to be with, which is important when you are with him all day for 2 weeks.
combo	We did 4 treks, a Gorilla and Golden Monkey in Rwanda and a Gorilla and Chimpanzee trek in Uganda.
combo	I know the fees charged by the governments are high especially the Rwanda gorilla trek, but it is a once in a lifetime trip and we are thrilled we did them all.
combo	The gorilla trek in Rwanda required some climbing and you need to be on good physical condition.
combo	In addition to the treks, we went on game drives looking for and finding a variety of animals.
combo	By visiting villages we learned about culture and way of life.
combo	All organized by the company and our guide.
combo	All of the lodges Gorilla Trek Africa used were great.
combo	The rooms were very clean, the food was great and the service was outstanding.
combo	The views were breathtaking.
combo	The company is extremely well organized and was attentive to our needs.
combo	As I said above, we loved our guide Gavis and found dealing with the manager, Nelson, a pleasure.
combo	He got back to us very promptly and was attentive to our questions, needs and issues.
combo	If you are going to take this type of adventure, Gorilla Trek Africa is the company to use."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa provided me the trip of a lifetime!
combo	I was impressed with the service, Geoffrey was great, passionate and knowledgeable.
combo	Nelson was always available to help out, even when the hotel forgot to pick me up he sorted it out at a moments notice!
combo	Despite doing it on my own, I never felt unsafe or threatened in any way.
combo	Geoffrey even dropped me off at my hostel after the trek was done in Kigali!
combo	Gorilla Mist lodge was a lovely accommodation, and just be careful that if you're going to Uganda (Bwindi) from Rwanda and back to Kigali, make sure you've got multiple single entry visas, or the East African visa so you don't have to be held up at the Gatuna border having to pay USD$30 for visas (had to wait for around 30 minutes, but it wasn't a busy day!).
combo	Incredible experience, well looked after and incredibly accommodating.
combo	Would totally recommend to anyone interested, and would do it all over again with them.
combo	Thanks for providing the experience of a lifetime!"
combo	"Booking with Gorilla Trek Africa was easy over email as Nelson is extremely responsive.
combo	Our guide, Elvis, was at our hotel waiting for us on the first day as expected and over our 2 day trip with him he was very friendly and adaptable to whatever we needed (i.e.
combo	bathroom stops, etc.).
combo	Also helped us understand a bit about life in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The actual gorilla portion of the trip was absolutely incredible and so worth the detour and money!
combo	Would absolutely recommend using Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"Highly recommend!!
combo	Arranged my visit with Nelson via email.
combo	He is quick to respond and is very informative.
combo	Because of work I flew into Kigali and stayed at the Marriott, excellent hotel.
combo	Due to the trekking permit cost in Rwanda, $1500.00 USD/day, Nelson recommended driving to Bwindi National Park in Uganda, half the price.
combo	Nelson provided the car and driver also set up our accommodations for one night in Uganda at the Gorilla Mist Lodge.
combo	The drive is approximately 4 1/2 hrs depending on how busy the boarder crossing is.
combo	Which in itself is an interesting experience.
combo	Enos was our driver and did an excellent job as a driver and tour guide.
combo	Do get your East African Tourist Visa before arriving $100USD, I did not and had to pay $30 each time entering Rwanda and $50 entering Uganda.
combo	All cash.
combo	Causes a little delay at the Uganda/Rwanda boarder.
combo	All in all it was a wonderful experience.
combo	Kigali is a beautiful City, impeccably clean and safe.
combo	The people are warm and friendly.
combo	Tourist Support is imperative!!"
combo	"My husband and I have just returned from a wonderful trip to Rwanda and Uganda.Having lived in another African country for 17 years I think Gorilla Trek Africa is one of the most efficient companies operating in Africa.
combo	From the outset Nelson was prompt in his email replies suggesting and then arranging our itinerary.Peter our guide for three days was friendly, informative and looked after us extremely well.We cannot recommend GTA highly enough.Spending time with the Gorillas is certainly an experience of a life time ...just do it !!!"
combo	"What an incredible experience.
combo	From the start, emailing Nelson to the drop off at or hotel in Kigali it was a seamless and positive experience.
combo	Norman was our guide and he was a really fun and educated guide.
combo	He was always punctual and waiting with a smile.
combo	The first day we were taken to the Genocide Museum which I think is a must for anyone visiting Rwanda as it plays such an important, yet bitterly tragic part of their history.
combo	Seeing the Gorillas was an amazing experience, I almost couldn’t believe it was real when we saw our first Silverback.
combo	The hike to the Amahoro tribe (the tribe we tracked) was a good 2 hours with about 90mins of that up hill through thick jungle.
combo	The trackers and guides are awesome making it as safe and easy as possible.
combo	You can get a porter to carry your bag if you would like.
combo	Once you find the Gorillas you are there for an hour ( they don’t like more than 1hr human interaction with the Gorillas daily).
combo	Be prepared to get up close an personal.
combo	I had the chief Silverback walk toward me meaning I had to drop down into bushes to get out of his way.
combo	Nonetheless he still managed to put his big right hand on my thigh.
combo	A massive adrenaline rush.
combo	This is a once in a lifetime experience (although hopefully not!).
combo	If you want to get very close to wild Gorillas in the African jungle it’s a MUST DO!
combo	I would recommend gorilla trek Africa to anyone.
combo	Tip: the jungle has stinging nettles so take proper hiking attire, boots and gloves."
combo	"Our driver Norman was excellent from picking us up at our hotel, driving us 3 hours to the National Park and being on top of all of our Gorilla/monkey/additional activities.
combo	He was a fun guy to be around and was also very informative about Rwanda and the gorillas.
combo	Nelson was always very quick to reply to emails and easy to communicate with when booking the trip.
combo	Seeing the Gorillas was an absolutely amazing experience.
combo	We tracked the Amahoro family which was a 30min walk through farmland before hiking 1.5 hours up the mountain.
combo	There were only 4 people in our group and we all got to spend plenty of time with the gorillas, seeing two silver backs.
combo	I would recommend to everyone!!"
combo	"We are just returning from 2 weeks Gorilla Treking in Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	Our experience with Gorilla Trek Africa was outstanding.
combo	Our guide Gavis was extremely capable, knowledgeable, and compassionate.
combo	We spent two weeks with him & felt so cared for.
combo	He helped in so many ways to make our trip so special.
combo	We have had many guides in our world travels- he ranks among the best!
combo	Nelson, the manager & Mr. Wilbur, the owner were extremely concerned about pleasing us.
combo	We preferred Our Trek in Uganda which is good because the price has now doubled in Rwanda.
combo	We loved Five Volcanoes Lodge & Mahogany Springs - both lodges we Gorilla treked from.
combo	The Myena lodge in Queen Elizabeth was beautiful.
combo	Our favorite lodge by far was Kyianga in Fort Portal.
combo	I'd recommend staying there at least three nights.
combo	The lodge is magnificent & the staff is 5 stars.
combo	We hiked to see the chimps, swam in Crater Lake & did a beautiful bird walk with their bird expert Simon.
combo	We wouldn't recommend Lake Byouni Eco Lodge & after our Guide called Nelson they won't be using them.
combo	We also wouldn't recommend Ishasha River Lodge.
combo	The new managers don't treat the guides respectfully - not allowing them to join their guests in the main area.
combo	Thy also lacked flexibility around meal times, laundry etc.
combo	Gavis, our guide called Nelson & Wilbur to update them about each experience.
combo	If you are wanting to go Gorilla Treking, look no further than Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"This was a first class experience.
combo	From the point our driver picked us up in Kigali until he returned us there I felt like we were with a trusted friend.
combo	Eric took all the time needed to answer our questions and really educated us on Rwanda's recent history.
combo	A stop at the Genocide Museum on the way out of Kigali gave us a sobering appreciation for just how far this nation has come in the past 23 years.
combo	Another brief stop at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Int'l building really laid a great foundation for the encounter with gorilla family the following day.
combo	The hike up the mountain wasn't an easy one, but you are part of a very organized crew of guide, porters, and finally the trackers.
combo	The latter spend a lot of time monitoring the various families and can basically guarantee you will see the gorillas at the end of your hike.
combo	The 1 hour we were given to visit was full of exciting and marvelous activity; especially the younger gorillas.
combo	The next day was another thrilling event to family of approx.
combo	200 Golden Monkeys.
combo	This trek is to a much altitude and a lot easier to accomplish, but the amazing feeling of being surrounded by the constantly active animals was one of the best things I have ever experienced.
combo	Thanks to GTA for their fine coordination and flawless execution."
combo	"The gorillas themselves are amazing - lots of reviews talk about that.
combo	But here are a few things I didn't know about this process: 1) Biggest Suggestion: do at least 2 hikes.
combo	We only did one and regret it.
combo	You go all this way and the first time you see them you are focused on pictures and trying to take it all in, but it doesn't feel real.
combo	I would have liked to have had 1 more experience now that I know what to expect.
combo	2) You meet together first thing in the morning and all of the tour guides (the one that drove you here) work with the Trekking people to assign you to groups.
combo	So it is important that your driver/guide knows which gorilla group you want to see.
combo	3) The descriptions on the website about how hard it is to get to the gorilla's don't always match reality.
combo	We selected the Susa because it was one of the largest families and the description was that they were very far/harder to get to.
combo	The hard part was the 45+ minute drive to the starting point.
combo	Then we did about a 1.5 hour hike - not an easy hike but not hard - to where they were.
combo	So if you are looking for an easy hike or a hard hike or a far hike, tell that to your driver so he/she can pick appropriately.
combo	4) Wear gaiters and gloves if your hike will take you through the nettles layer.
combo	which you really wont know until you get there - so just wear them.
combo	5) No matter what family you get assigned to, there are only 8 tourists per group 6) The porters carry your stuff but also help you in the trickier parts if needed.
combo	They are reformed poachers so supporting them supports the Gorillas.
combo	Overall, this is a well run process that ensures the gorillas are least impacted while allowing us to experience them fully!"
combo	"It's not just about the trek.
combo	It's about knowing when you deposit thousands into an East African bank account it is used for your dream adventure.
combo	It's about knowing the visit permits will be booked on the day you specified as they are very restricted.
combo	It's also about communication and here Nelson (info@rwandagorilla.com) excels.
combo	Over a 9 month period over 50 emails were exchanged right up to the day we left (News Years Day).
combo	All were answered promptly.
combo	This is a huge financial and logistical commitment and its crucial to be sure.
combo	In addition we had a major 'complication' yet Nelson was able to sort it out via communication to the Rangers.
combo	We finished the trek early so Nelson arranged the second night on Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort (Kyahugye Island).
combo	An unexpected but appreciated addition to the tour.
combo	This is how Gorilla Trek stay on top.
combo	Don't be complacent and innovate.
combo	The experience was awesome.
combo	Two metres from a female and a baby doing baby stuff; somersaults and annoying the adults.
combo	The silver-back did what it did best, playing the grumpy leaders role."
combo	"This review is long overdue, but I had an amazing experience with Gorilla Trek Africa from my first of many emails with Nelson to the actual trekking experience.
combo	My schedule was constantly shifting, but everyone was so patient, communicative, and flexible.
combo	I came from Burundi, flew to Rwanda, and then in one day drove to Uganda and back to Rwanda to see the gorillas.
combo	Bob was my driver extraordinaire and a gem to spend hours in the car with.
combo	Kind, funny, and extremely knowledgeable, he was the best!
combo	My trek was very short...I think we walked maybe 5 minutes before we saw the gorillas while others trekked deeper into the forest.
combo	My one piece of advice is to be very explicit with what type of trek you want because at the beginning all the visitors for the day are divided into different groups that will go visit the different bands of gorillas (Also, a group of gorillas is apparently called a band--thanks Bob!
combo	so some go longer distances and some very short.
combo	Overall it was incredible and I wish I could rewind time and do it all over again."
combo	"We enjoyed a 3-night tour of Rwanda with our guide and driver, Enos.
combo	Enos is a safe driver, knowledgeable, courteous, and great company.
combo	He taught us about the history of Rwanda and the genocide in case we didn’t have time to visit the Kigali Genocide Menorial, which we squeezed in a visit to after all.
combo	We went on two gorilla treks in Volcanoes National Park and Enos negotiated our groups for us.
combo	We visited Sabyinyo group and Amahoro group, both awesome viewings of the mountain gorillas!
combo	We also went on a golden monkey trek, which was great fun watching these active animals in the forest.
combo	Enos also took us to a cultural village for a tour, interactions and souvenirs.
combo	It was kind of silly but entertaining.
combo	Enos dined with us most meals and we enjoyed his company.
combo	What a great guide and tour.
combo	Rwanda is beautiful and we recommend this company.
combo	Nelson was also very easy to correspond with via email in planning the trip, and in arranging all of the details."
combo	Thank you so much for making our once in a lifetime adventure so special.
combo	You were so knowledgeable and friendly and we were so lucky to see a family of 28 gorillas.
combo	Thank you once again Norman.
combo	"My husband and I did a 3 day gorilla trek tour with gorilla trek Africa and it was fantastic.
combo	Robert Elvis was our guide and we had the most amazing time!!!
combo	We started in Kigali and drove to bwindi jungle lodge which is simply beautiful right on a lake.
combo	Robert took us on a walk around the villages nearby and it was so wonderful to meet local people.
combo	The following day we went trekking in bwindi in the rushaga area with the gorillas!!!!
combo	Wow!
combo	Such a surreal experience!
combo	Would highly recommend gardening gloves for the trek.
combo	It was a real jungle experience which was great!
combo	Would recommend a porter too.
combo	Driving back from our trek, we randomly heard singing in the villages outside our car so Robert stopped for us to see a local Twa family practicing different songs and dances.
combo	So wonderful to see!!!!
combo	Back at the lodge, we went for a canoe ride and met more local people.
combo	We had brought little gifts from Australia to give to the kids and seeing their faces so happy was magical.
combo	We finished off with a delicious dinner at the lodge.
combo	Staff at the lodge were wonderful.
combo	Our final day we headed back to Kigali and had a city tour to local markets, hotel Rwanda and the genocide memorial which was well worth it.
combo	We cannot thank Robert Elvis enough for making our trip so enjoyable.
combo	He did everything in his power to make our trip the best ever and suitable for us.
combo	He got us local foods to try and was always happy to pull over for photos or anything else we wanted.
combo	Robert is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his job.
combo	We are so grateful to have had him as our guide.
combo	I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND Robert Elvis to anyone coming to Uganda or Rwanda.
combo	Gorilla trek Africa was great to book through as they will cater to whatever your needs or want may be!"
combo	"We chose Gorilla Trek Africa for our 4 day adventure to Rwanda.
combo	We were not disappointed.
combo	Our guide, Eric, was absolutely fantastic.
combo	He was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and ensured that we were always comfortable.
combo	Eric went above and beyond for us, and when I told him that I planned to propose to my now fiancé on the Dian Fossey trek he arranged a bottle of champagne for us and a wonderful reception out our lodge after the festivities.
combo	I can’t finish this review without mentioning the gorilla trek - it was something we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa made our dreams come true."
combo	"Very highly recommend GTA, and definitely request for Gavis to be your guide!
combo	has got gorilla trekking (and more!
combo	down to a tee.
combo	You will deal with a very professional and responsive booking team (Nelson).
combo	He will suggest an itinerary that suits your requirements and will ensure you have all the necessary information for your trip (even including a packing list)!
combo	Each group booking is assigned a guide who will look after you from your designated pick-up and drop-off location.
combo	Our guide Gavis was incredible - he was organised, knowledgeable, helpful and has a great sense of humour.
combo	Gavis was also very accommodating to our requests (e.g.
combo	a shopping detour following delayed luggage).
combo	Thank you for such a great 4 days Gavis!
combo	If I were to be pernickety and do the tour again, the only thing I would change is the packed lunch, as it’s slightly limited in terms of options for vegetarians.
combo	Just check with your lodging the previous evening and they should be able to accommodate your requests.
combo	Enjoy!"
combo	"Encounters with mountain gorillas and golden monkeys was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, if you're up for a moderate forest hike.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa (GTA) provided transportation from the Kigali airport to the hotel and back again (we stayed at 5 Volcanos -- more about that later), then to and from the park area where you're dropped off by your GTA guide.
combo	You're then put in groups by the park guides and the guides escort you up the mountain and supervise the gorilla trek and encounter.
combo	The GTA guide was not with us for the trek.
combo	There are local porters and walking sticks available for $10/porter.
combo	If you're not sure-footed they're very helpful.
combo	The GTA Guide picks you up after the trek and brings you back to your hotel.
combo	Our GTA guide Bobby Joe (or something like that) did a great job of telling us about the history and culture in Rwanda.
combo	He also dropped us off and picked us back up from the Genocide Museum on the way up the mountain.
combo	We paid for deluxe accommodations, but the first of 2 nights at the 5 Volcanos hotel but we had crappy rooms the first night.
combo	After we complained to Nelson from GTA we got the better room the second night.
combo	If we had it to do over we'd make sure we were getting the deluxe rooms.
combo	The hotel provided gaiters, so you don't need to bring your own.
combo	We went in third week of September, the weather was cool but comfortable.
combo	The dining room is covered, but with half-walls.
combo	The food was good considering where we were.
combo	The one thing that was scary was paying for the trip.
combo	requires a 40% downpayment by wire transfer from your bank or a 5% surcharge on a credit card.
combo	Moneygram and Western Union probably won't work because they're worried about fraud.
combo	You can pay the balance when you arrive, but you'll have to pay by credit card and pay the 5% surcharge.
combo	The GTA pricing includes the very expensive state-issued permits.
combo	When we purchased our trip we got under the wire and only paid $700 per permit.
combo	I understand the permit prices have since increased.
combo	Considering this eco-tourism is one of the primary income sources for a terribly pour country, perhaps you can justify the cost for this incredible animal encounter.
combo	Be prepared to be amazed.
combo	Not that it matters, but if I remember correctly, GTA is owned by an Indian, not by Rwandans."
combo	So worth experiencing!!!!
combo	These treks helps the locals and aids in preserving these magnificent animals!!!
combo	Both rangers and porters take excellent care of your safety.
combo	Definitely would do it again!!!!
combo	A priceless adventure!!!
combo	!
combo	"We have just got back from a 7 day safari in Rwanda and Uganda with GTA - it was an amazing trip.
combo	Nelson was very easy to work with in the organisation of the trip, very promptly answering emails to answer questions and giving us help when needed.
combo	Kenneth our driver was the best!
combo	He was a knowledgable guide and looked after us all week.
combo	A very careful driver, he had so many contacts in the parks we visited which proved useful when looking for lions in trees!
combo	We were very lucky and managed to see everything we hoped we might see including baby gorillas, elephants, hippos, baby chimpanzees and lion cubs in trees.
combo	We would recommend GTA to anyone thinking of going on safari in Uganda or Rwanda.
combo	Thank you Nelson and Kenneth!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa were great in helping me arrange my visit to the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	I contacted them about 3 weeks before my trip to Rwanda and within a few days we had managed to agree on an itinerary that worked for me.
combo	Their fee included pick up from my hotel in Kigali, and the 3 hour drive to Ruhengeri and back , the stay at the Volcanoes Hotel in Ruhengeri including meals, and arrangements for the gorilla trek permit.
combo	We started the day with a very sobering visit to the Genocide Memorial in Kigali.
combo	The young tour guide Elias was with me during the 2-day trip.
combo	He was very conscientious, and drove very carefully to the park and back.
combo	I would recommend using this company for visiting the national parks in Rwanda."
combo	This has been a life long goal for me to see the great Silverback Gorillas.
combo	My main contact Nelson was awesome and always responded to my emails the same day and even just a few minutes after I sent the email.
combo	I discussed with him seeing the Gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda.
combo	He recommended Uganda due to the substantial increase in park fees for Rwanda.
combo	We booked through Gorilla Trek and our first guide could not make it so Nelson sent Gavis.
combo	If you need a guide make sure it is Gavis.
combo	He is very knowledgeable with the two countries and was a pleasure to talk too throughout our trip.
combo	We stayed at Gorilla Mist Lodge and the accommodations were nice and the staff was very nice and helpful.
combo	The Trek was awesome and we saw two males and a bunch of female gorillas all very close.
combo	It was great experience and highly recommend them for you Gorilla Trek and make sure you ask for Gavis as your guide.
combo	"The first time my husband and I traveled to East Africa, we chose to coordinate our trip through a Western company because we ignorantly thought it would be more efficient to make arrangements with an agency in our time zone.
combo	Since it was our second time in Africa, we felt more confident and comfortable traveling this time around and wanted to try and book directly with a local company in the region.
combo	I am so happy we did!
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa is EVERYTHING we could have ever asked for in a tour company.
combo	Since the very first email I sent, Nelson was superb.
combo	Communication was extremely prompt and thorough and we were able to coordinate everything through email.
combo	We originally sent emails to a few local companies, but GTA had the most helpful and fast response times of any of the companies we reached out to, so it made it a pretty easy decision.
combo	I was also thrilled/relieved to find a company that was willing to tailor and customize an itinerary to our exact requests.
combo	While they do offer sample itineraries you can choose from if you prefer someone else handle the planning, they were incredibly flexible with me when I wanted to deviate and craft my own.
combo	In fact, I did all the research of what I wanted to see and do in the allotted dates of our trip and then I gave to Nelson our desired itinerary and he was completely accommodating!
combo	He then simply executed what I proposed and within our constraints.
combo	We went through a couple drafts together, and he helped me tweak the order of activities a little based upon what made more sense logistically, but overall, you should have full control to select all of your own activities and time frame!
combo	In terms of the actual trip itself, we made memories of a lifetime!
combo	If you can, I would request William K. (they have two Williams) as your guide.
combo	He was so fun, friendly, entertaining, and enjoyable to be with and we couldn't imagine having anyone else to share in our gorilla journey with us.
combo	He was a terrific guide, but even more so, we felt like by the end of our trip, we left as friends.
combo	We highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, and we have already recommended them to all of our group members we met climbing Kilimanjaro during our first trip to Africa."
combo	"It is really a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	After a briefing at the base, we drove by our Landrover the starting point.
combo	Equipped with nice walking sticks the started your trail to the Vulcans.
combo	Our great guide Augustin gave us some last instruction about the behaver on site.
combo	After one hour walk they just have been in front of us.
combo	The silver back, his tree wives and one baby of the Mahusa family are ready to meet us.
combo	We have not been to close (a couple of meters).
combo	However, when silver back moves to another location, he might be just next to you.
combo	Just don’t move!
combo	I guaranty this moment I will not forget."
combo	We booked our Rwanda trip through Gorilla Trek Africa and it was excellent.
combo	Nelson was our contact person.
combo	He was always quick to reply to emails and a pleasure to work with.
combo	Our driver was Andrew and he took very good care of our family.
combo	He met us at the airport and was with us for 4 days.
combo	arranged all of our permits to see the gorillas as well as the golden monkeys.
combo	Both were extraordinary adventures we will always remember.
combo	Book early as they only allow 80 people per day to see the gorillas.
combo	Highly recommended!
combo	"I wanted to go to Rwanda for a long time.
combo	I decided to go as a solo female traveler.
combo	I was a bit apprehensive at first, but everything went so smoothly and I felt so safe with this company and my guide, Eric.
combo	I was picked up timely, and Eric was a very safe driver.
combo	I booked two gorilla treks, as well as a couple of days in Nyungwe.
combo	The Gorilla treks were challenging, and I almost wanted to give up after the first one, but Eric encouraged me not to.
combo	I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this trip.
combo	Thanks!"
combo	"We booked a one night trip.
combo	We had amazing communication even after we sent 20+ emails.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa setup a driver to pick us up.
combo	Little did we know Elias would change our lives.
combo	He picked us up at the airport, got us to our hotel and picked us up in the morning.
combo	In his hushed tone, we learned about Rwanda and it’s peoples history.
combo	We got great pictures on our drive to Uganda, had an easy night and then saw a giant clan of gorillas after a beautiful hike.
combo	Elias also arranged a village tour which all of our hike mates were jealous of.
combo	Thank you Elias.
combo	The experience was magical."
combo	"The 3 day gorilla trek plus golden Monkeys and the visit of the village of the friends of the Mountain Gorillas was a unique experience that will remain in our memories forever!
combo	A well organized trip, a very friendly and competent tour guide."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa made the initial registration process for this trek quick and simple.
combo	The Gorilla trekking was marvellous and exceeded my expectations.
combo	My guide Krish was exceptional, knew his role very well, took good care of me and made great emphasis on safety.
combo	The trekking guides and rangers were also very experienced which made the trek safe and enjoyable.
combo	Highly recommended!"
combo	I had very little time to plan this spontaneous trip and from the first phone conversation this company could answer all my questions and helped me book a 4 day Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla Trek Tour in less than a week on a mid-range budget.
combo	The service was very professional and they responded to every email and phone call promptly.
combo	They provided all transportation in a private safari SUV.
combo	I booked 2 Gorilla Treks...one in Rwanda and the other in Uganda.
combo	Both were very different treks and well worth the travel.
combo	This is a must do bucket list trip and one not to forget!
combo	"The gorilla trek is on the border of Rwanda, Uganda and DRC Congo.
combo	The best trek I’ve had so far.
combo	The one in Rwanda is at the Volcanoes National Park with a chain of 8 volcanoes and a wonderful landscape.
combo	The gorilla trek is quite expensive at $1500 per person."
combo	"GTA is an amazing company that put together a customized tour that included Chimpanzee, Mountain Gorilla and Golden Monkey treks, game drives and Dian Fossey hike.
combo	Nelson put together such a great itinerary with amazing accommodation and Douglas was our driver.
combo	Douglas was so fun, he really made our trip comfortable and safe!
combo	I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a customized itinerary through the heart of Africa."
combo	"I have just completed a five days tour with GTA in Rwanda and Uganda which included gorilla and golden monkey trekking and game drives.
combo	From the moment I contacted GTA, they (Nelson) were always quick to reply (actually the quickest one).
combo	We went a couple rounds back and forth with clarifications, but they were providing quality feedback and helped me compose/select an itinerary which included all I hoped for.
combo	The accommodation options that GTA gave to me and which I selected from where all very good for the price level I selected (Chimpanze Guest House, Enganzi Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp and Da Vinci Lodge).
combo	On the road I was given a driver, Gavis, who also doubled as a guide.
combo	It turned out that I was really lucky with the guide.
combo	He was very knowledgeable and helpful and understood what foreign travelers like and don’t like without me having to spell it out.
combo	I really enjoyed his company on the road, and I can highly recommend him as a guide.
combo	In short, I am very satisfied with the service GTA provided, and I can highly recommend them to others."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa's Asaph was the dream guide.
combo	Knowledgeable, interesting, kind and capable, he drove serenely and safely on the Rwandan and Ugandan roads, always ready to point out things of interest and stop for us to take photos, happy to divert from the route to show us something extraordinary, shepherding us through the border crossings, and making sure that our trip would be totally unforgettable.
combo	Not only did we see the gorillas, but afterwards Asaph took us on a walk around the village where we saw not an artificial version of Ugandan village life organised for tourists, but the realities of a community living far from the amenities that people like us take for granted, reliant on their own resources for all that they need.
combo	He even made time for a visit to the Genocide Memorial on our return to Kigali, for which I was so grateful.
combo	At all times he was totally on our side, with advice on how to maximise the interest of our trip while minimising unnecessary spending... Like being in the care of your handsome, skilful, knowledgeable elder brother who's looking out for you 24 hours a day!
combo	Thank you for a fantastic trip."
combo	"Nelson was very quick to respond to my initial email about gorilla trekking, and very prompt with all of my follow up questions.
combo	The suggested itinerary and accommodation was just what we were looking for and a great price.
combo	It was completely hassle free to organise.
combo	Our guide for the visit was Enos, and what a pleasure he was - great fun to chat to, very knowledgeable and very flexible as well (e.g., we had already visited the genocide museum so he took us to a different memorial which was very interesting).
combo	Highly recommend"
combo	"We enjoyed a superb trek into Volcanoes National Park to spend an hour with the gorillas.
combo	A superb experience never to be forgotten.
combo	Our guide was very knowledgeable and informative.
combo	It is well worth hiring a porter for many reasons.
combo	Firstly, they carry your stuff - in my case very heavy camera gear.
combo	They help you throughout when things get tricky underfoot - my porter kept me on my feet in slippery mud more times than I could count.
combo	Also, you are providing them with employment for the day for $10.
combo	Plus you are helping to prevent poaching as the majority of the porters are ex-poachers and by employing them you are helping to keep them from returning to poaching.
combo	Thats a lot of benefits for a very small cost."
combo	"This was truly a life changing experience and should not be missed!
combo	My guide, Krysh, was amazing from the moment he picked me up at my hotel in Kigali.
combo	The two day journal went off smoothly, including the transport across the border into Uganda.
combo	The lodge accommodations and meals were excellent and the gorilla trek was beyond words.
combo	We got to sit with a family of gorillas for an hour and were within feet of them.
combo	Krysh throughout the journey was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and I can't recommend him enough.
combo	If you are in this part of the world do not miss this opportunity.
combo	And definitely ask for Krysh as your guide!"
combo	"Visited large local market in Kigali then Genicide Museum both with local guide from Gorilla Trek called Gavin.
combo	Great bloke!
combo	Lots local knowledge, gentle, trustworthy and fun too!
combo	Then we visited the gorillas in Volcano Park on day 2.
combo	Again a stunning trip - much more exciting and enlightening than I had imagined.
combo	National Park guides were superb.
combo	Then back to Kigali after delicious lunch at Gorilla Solutuins Lodge.
combo	Would definitely recommend"
combo	"We had a very good trip, departing from Kigali on Saturday morning, across the border into Uganda to Bwindi forest.
combo	We stayed the night at the Gorilla Mist Camp, which was very pleasant, friendly, and quiet.
combo	On the Sunday morning we did the trekking to a family of 10 gorillas, which included two silverbacks.
combo	We got up close to the gorillas and had the opportunity to take great pictures.
combo	Sunday afternoon we returned back to Kigali.
combo	The guides, the camp staff, and the hotel staff was great, very friendly and helpful.
combo	Elias, our driver from GTA, was very helpful and had good advice and information.
combo	Benson and our other guides in the forest was very informative and did a lot to promote the conservation of the park and the gorillas.
combo	They do a lot to get the local community involved with the conservation.
combo	Really a worthwhile experience."
combo	"Can ask to have Easy, Moderate, or Hard trek.
combo	Although, you may not be able to get a less than one hour hike to see gorillas by starting on an easier hike you may not be so exhausted when you find them.
combo	Be aware you're at a higher altitude and unless you're young (we are in our 60's) and EXCEPTIONALLY fit then these ""treks"" can be challenging to downright difficult.
combo	Had a great porter.
combo	Unfortunately, I forgot his name.
combo	All of the guides, porters, etc.
combo	were exceptionally helpful."
combo	"The three G's of our exciting, amazing, inspiring, and successful gorilla trek with GTA: Gorillas; Gavis; and, Great planning by the company.
combo	The Gorillas: There aren't enough superlatives to describe the experience of sitting with a gorilla family, even for a brief hour.
combo	That these magnificent - and fragile - inhabitants of our planet survive encroachment, poaching, and other threats to their well-being is enough to warrant our admiration and support.
combo	For those fortunate enough to have the means and opportunity to make a trek like this, the trek provides a reminder and inspiration to advocate for their survival, their flourishing, and the support of the communities and cultures in whose midst they live and - in no small part - on whom the gorillas depend for safety and well-being.
combo	Gavis: We are really glad that we formed our small trek team with Gavis as our guide for the two-day trek.
combo	From the time he picked us up at the hotel in Kigali, driving us the 5 hours each way, fielding what seemed like an infinite number of geographic and cultural questions, and joining us in hours of conversation, Gavis was all we could hope for to make our trip complete.
combo	He is a conscientious driver, knowledgable landmark guide, patient photo enabler, effective border crossing facilitator, and overall great cultural ambassador (for both Rwanda and Uganda).
combo	Having spent the better part of two days together, he seems to have the perfect disposition and skillset to make the trek a completely enjoyable.
combo	Great Planning by GTA: Quite literally EVERYTHING was thought out and planned in advance.
combo	To the degree that all the details could be ironed out in advance, we can't recall running across anything that was unexpected (save the sheer awesomeness of the gorillas).
combo	Based in no small part on Trip Advisor, we made our reservation from the US.
combo	has a rep in the US, with whom we were able to speak to address our questions, in addition to clear, comprehensive information in the e-mails we exchanged with Nelson in-country.
combo	We chose to stay at the Gorilla Safari Lodge and everything was seamless there as well."
combo	"I have just returned from a fabulous 12 day trip to Rwanda and Uganda organised by Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson is very professional and responded to my numerous queries and itinerary adjustments promptly.
combo	He was very clear about the much higher costs associated with gorilla trekking in Rwanda vs Uganda, although I chose to do both anyway.
combo	My guide, William Kirye, is extremely knowledgeable about all of the fauna and flora we encountered during the trip, with birds being his particular speciality.
combo	He provided excellent information on all of the places we visited and went out of his way to ensure that my trip was a truly memorable experience.
combo	We met several other guides from the same company along the way and all demonstrated the same level of professionalism, enthusiasm and commitment to ensuring their clients had a wonderful holiday.
combo	The vehicle we travelled in was well maintained and ideally suited for the terrain.
combo	We had 1 minor mechanical issue (not surprising given the state of some of the roads, particularly in the mountains) which was dealt with expediently and without any drama.
combo	All of the accommodation that was booked (I chose mid-range) has been specifically selected based on the high standard of the facilities, service and food provided.
combo	I would not hesitate to recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and look forward to booking my next trip to Rwanda and Uganda with them in the near future."
combo	"After a short business trip in Kenya, I flew to Rwanda hoping to spend a day or two in Kigali for a short city break.
combo	A couple of weeks before going I realized how close to the Gorillas I was going to be - and looked for a tour company who could me conveniently visit the gorillas whilst helping me respect my very tight schedule (24 hours in Rwanda).
combo	Due to these positive reviews on TripAdvisor, I enquired with Gorilla Trek on what options were available.
combo	Nelson quickly came back to me with options and helpfully said that a 1 day option into Uganda was also possible - with a pickup from the airport once my flight landed at 2am, returning me to Rwanda to the hotel.
combo	Due to the difference in price (about 600 USD cheaper in Uganda) and the chance to experience an additional country, I chose the one day Rwanda tour.
combo	I had arranged to meet my guide Krish at the airport at 3am once I landed from Nairobi.
combo	When my flight landed at 1:30am, I was about to prepare myself for 90 minutes waiting in the small coffee bar when Krish appeared, having got there early, saying we could set off immediately to beat the border traffic if that worked for me.
combo	This was a very welcome offer as I managed to sleep in the large comfortable Toyoto LandCruiser for most of the journey, making my day with the Gorillas much more enjoyable.
combo	Krish was a very personable, professional guide and it was a pleasure to spend the day with him - including 8 hours in the car going to and from the national park.
combo	Due to the fact it was rainy season and there were heavy storms on the way back, having his driving skills was also very welcome.
combo	He was also very happy to let me listen to some local African music on my request.
combo	The border crossings were flawless and I felt very well supported, not overly chaperoned and it was a thoroughly worthwhile investment.
combo	All in all - I would highly recommend this company for their support before and during the trek itself and their competent and professional guides.
combo	Thanks Krish for a great day!"
combo	"a year ago I booked a two week Safari to Kenya & Tanzania with an excellent co I traveled with before, but then I wanted to see the Gorillas & Chimps in Uganda & Rwanda.
combo	The extension they offered was too expensive, so I searched the web & booked that segment with Gorilla Trek Africa , they worked with me to offer just the right iternarry and the value for the money was excellent.
combo	I paid in full a year in advance.
combo	When the time came for the trip the guide was right there at the airport with my name on the sign.
combo	Everything was delivered just as promised and more.
combo	I was worried that the Gorilla trekking may prove too much for me, but my excellent guide Richard ensured that I got to see a Gorilla family within 2 hours of hick in the forest.
combo	Both the Gorilla and the Chimps viewing were exceptional at very close rang.
combo	I would certainly highly recommend this company.
combo	The accumulations, car, and guide were all terrific."
combo	"If you're going to Africa for safari, please consider making the gorillas part of your trip.
combo	Words cannot describe how special this experience was.
combo	I hope it will be for you too!"
combo	Primate safaris.
combo	Excellent service professional approach and customer service.
combo	Hussaine was our driver who coordinated the day's trek.
combo	Which didn't disappoint.
combo	Gorillas seen on all days .
combo	Mind blowing.
combo	"I can totally recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for Gorilla Trekking.
combo	The gorilla trek was a little tough but once I got to the gorilla family it was great experience.
combo	Super pretty baby gorilla!!
combo	After trekking, I got a foot massage at Da Vinch lodge,they also cleaned my muddy boots, the lunch was very nice.
combo	And thanks my guide Davis!
combo	He picked up on time at hotel in Kigali early morning, during my tour he always made me feel comfortable.
combo	Thanks a lot, Davis!!"
combo	"First and foremost, do contact Nelson from GTA for your trekking requirements.
combo	Next, ask for Eric to be your driver during your stay in Rwanda.
combo	Our gorilla trekking was flawless and it was a great experience seeing the gorillas up close.
combo	Our thanks to both gentlemen for making our experience in Rwanda an unforgettable one."
combo	"We chose to do our Rwanda gorilla trek with Gorilla Trek Africa due to their very good reviews on Trip Advisor and we were very happy with our decision.
combo	Nelson put together a great itinerary focusing on the things we wanted to do and see, and leaving some flexibility for modifications and free time.
combo	Asaf was an awesome guide and we very much enjoyed our time with him and his insight on the sites and tours.
combo	He went out of his way to make our trip special, including running out to find us banana wine to try!
combo	 We did a 3 day trip with a Walking Tour of Nyamirambo and a visit to the Genocide Museum in Kigali, a gorilla trek to the Pablo family, and a golden monkey trek.
combo	The gorilla trek was a medium/difficult hike and was a little tough being a steep 2 hour hike, but once we got to the gorilla family it was well worth it!
combo	We saw about 15-20 gorillas and thoroughly enjoyed our one hour time with them.
combo	It was amazing and we lucked out with no rain until the very end of our hike.
combo	I also recommend hiring a porter for the gorilla hike, it’s a great support to the local community and can be helpful in some slippery or steep spots!
combo	We stayed at the Marriott in Kigali the first night since we arrived late.
combo	The concierge was helpful ahead of our trip arranging for a shuttle pick up from the airport ($40).
combo	The other 2 nights we stayed at the Da Vinci lodge.
combo	The staff were super attentive and very nice.
combo	It was great that they met you each day from your hike and cleaned your boots and gaiters.
combo	They were really muddy and I was glad to have them cleaned up and get a foot massage!
combo	Rooms were clean, but a little damp.
combo	I’m not sure you can avoid the dampness when it’s raining every day..
combo	The charcoal fireplace lit each night was nice."
combo	"Africa itself is an amazing place!!
combo	And with any safari you will have an outstanding experience!
combo	But if you want to experience something that very few will, take yourself to Rwanda and DO the gorilla trek!!
combo	You will not regret it and I promise you will be talking about your trek for years to come!!!
combo	I cannot urge you enough, this is a must do!!!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa organised the following tour for me in July 2017: 1) Rwanda: Transfer from Kigali to Gisenyi/Lake Kivu (3 days) 2) Kongo: Climbing Nyiragongo (2 days) 3) Uganda: Gorilla Trekking in Impenetrable National Park and Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park (4 days) Ahead of the trip I exchanged emails with Nelson from Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Unlike other tour agencies I had asked for a quote Nelson replied to all emails within 24 hours.
combo	He organised everything (from permits to hotels etc.
combo	so that I did not have to deal with a lot of paperwork.
combo	Every aspect of the trip was handled professionally.
combo	David was my driver on the trip.
combo	David is a local from the Queen Elizabeth NP.
combo	Although the park does not seem to have the abundance of wildlife you find in the Serengeti NP or the Masai Mara I rate the safari as a good one.
combo	David was one the best safari guides I have met sofar.
combo	He did stop at places and spotted wildlife where other safari vehicles just passed (e.g.
combo	tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector).
combo	However, without a doubt the highlight of the trip was climbing Nyiragongo in the Virunga NP.
combo	Thanks once again to Gorilla Trek Africa for a memorable trip!"
combo	"We started out in Kigali, and visited Kibale, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Richard was not only extremely knowledgeable, but also a fast but safe driver, who would literally go the extra mile to make our trip an unforgettable experience.
combo	And best of all, he and Simon were great company!"
combo	"We just returned from our 3-day-trip to Uganda.
combo	We had some amazing moments with the gorillas in the Bwindi National Park.
combo	The accomodation was good (mid range) as well as the food they served.
combo	After a 1.5h walk, we spotted about 12 gorillas and stayed with them for about 1h.
combo	Thanks to our FANTASTIC guide GAVIS, everything went very well!
combo	He picked us up on time at our hotel in kigali and drove very save.
combo	He is a very nice, funny and smart guy and we had many interesting discussions.
combo	He could provide a lot information about the local culture, the animals and even politics.
combo	We can totaly recommend GORILLA TREK AFRICA for your gorilla tracking and especially GAVIS as a guide!"
combo	"My wife and I just returned from our trip to Uganda.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was a fantastic company to work with.
combo	I indicated what I wanted to do and see and Nelson was always very prompt in his response.
combo	Our guide Rogers was one of the best that we ever had.
combo	Always on time and a very safe driver.
combo	From airport pickup to airport drop.
combo	Everything went very smoothly.
combo	A very nice vehicle that wasn't allowed to get dirty.
combo	We highly recommed this company and guide.
combo	We saw every animal that we had on our list including 2 gorilla, 1 chimp, 1 golden monkey trips along with rhinos lions leopards elephants and many many others.
combo	It was fantastic.
combo	We have visited Botswana and Tanzania but this is our favorite."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Safari provided us the trip of a lifetime with memories beyond anything imaginable.
combo	We did a 7 day safari trek through 4 Ugandan National parks, first organized by Nelson via email, then completed with our driver, William.
combo	We cannot say enough about William: extremely knowledgeable, very aware of our needs, an amazing driver and wild animal magnet.
combo	We saw so much wildlife up close and personal - from baboons to chimpanzees, gorillas, hippo, giraffe, and lions....to name a few.
combo	In between park drives (on sometimes challenging roads - what many of us would 'off roading' by home standards), we would get tons of info on local culture, farming, and life style of Ugandans.
combo	We are a couple in our mid 60's, quite active, so the hiking wasn't unexpectedly hard.
combo	I do suggest that if you do the gorilla trek, however, you hire a local porter as the vertical jungle terrain is challenging and the porter knows just where to walk for the best footing.
combo	I followed my porters foot steps (that was all I could see at times in the thickens of the jungle) and his hand helped on the steep slopes.
combo	My knees aren't the strongest, and I couldn't have done this without help.
combo	Also, we topped 7800' by our GPS app, which can add to the hiking challenge if one isn't used to the altitude.
combo	Another highlight was the Chimpanzee trek.
combo	Not nearly as strenuous as the gorilla trek, the guide here got our group within inches of at least 30 chimps, some running past us within inches.
combo	The males were chasing a female in heat and the sounds of their calls were amazing!
combo	I could go on about each daily adventure, but with William and Gorilla Trek Africa you cannot go wrong.
combo	You will have an adventure of a lifetime....par excellence!!"
combo	"We did a 5 day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa which included chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, golden monkey trekking in Rwanda and (the obvious highlight) gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
combo	All the primate trekking was fantastic and gorilla trekking was definitely a once in a lifetime magic moment.
combo	We chose Gorilla Trek Africa based on all the good reviews and we were not disappointed.
combo	Nelson was extremely helpful during the planning stage of our trip.
combo	Both in terms of assisting us to choose the route that best suited our requirements and in terms of answering the numerous questions that we had before we began.
combo	Once we were on the road, Bernard was our guide and he was brilliant!
combo	He's incredibly informative and we had some fantastic conversations along the way.
combo	He quickly ascertained what we enjoyed most in terms of scenery and (where possible) would take roads that best suited our taste.
combo	He was an absolute pleasure to spend time with and we were said to say goodbye to him at the end of the trip.
combo	If you're comparing tour companies I highly recommend choosing Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"My husband and I decided to book a once in a life time trip to Africa.
combo	Once we heard about Gorilla Trekking, we decided it was an absolute MUST!
combo	We choose to go with Gorilla Trek Africa as they have so many wonderful reviews on trip advisor.
combo	Our experience with Gorilla Trek Africa began with Nelson organising our 2-day trip.
combo	Upon arrival we were greeted by Gavis who was our guide for the two days.
combo	Gavis is extremely knowledgeable and is also one of the most friendliest people you will ever meet.
combo	He made us feel comfortable and welcome as soon as we walked out of the airport, and once he found out it was our honeymoon he went above and beyond to make sure the trip was extra special.
combo	The gorilla trek itself, wow, what can I say?
combo	It truly is a once in a lifetime experience!
combo	Although the hike itself can be a little demanding but the end result is certainly well worth it.
combo	It also feels good knowing that trips like this are helping the species and the surrounding communities!
combo	Make sure you hire porters, not only are you then providing income for the local people but they genuinely help you with some of the parts that are slippery or rocky.
combo	I honestly don’t think we would have been able to make the trek to the gorillas without them!
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, and also if you want a fantastic guide ask for Gavis!"
combo	"Wouldn't have missed this for the world.
combo	We'll run operation with the well being of the gorillas top priority.
combo	Well worth the slog uphill.
combo	Great guides, trackers and company.
combo	If you're not uber young or a little on the unfit side like me don,t hesitate to get a porter to carry your day pack and help you up the slopes, over the streams and rocks.
combo	My porter Gilibert was a life saver."
combo	"I can highly recommend Gorilla trek Africa as the 'go to' company for the Gorilla Tracking Tour.
combo	Our driver picked us up at Kilgali airport and drove us to our hotel in the mountains- to the Tracking Tour the next day - back to Kilgali and then to the airport the following day.
combo	He was informative, funny , had excellent English and couldn't be helpful enough.
combo	They booked our hotels which were excellent choices , clean and quaint.
combo	We had an experience of seeing the gorillas in the jungle which we will never forget.
combo	Our driver explained everything which was going to happen in advance which I thought was a good thing .
combo	They were easy to deal with and had excellent email communication skills - always answering promptly.
combo	Rwanda is a safe and modern country.
combo	I highly recommend this extremely professional company"
combo	"Marvellous trip On invitation of my daughter I spent 5 days with her travelling Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	She had organised the trip with Gorilla Trek Africa and everything was perfectly organised.
combo	We were lucky maybe to have a guide like Bernard driving us around for five days.
combo	Bernard was a perfect guide with great knowledge about the East African Region.
combo	We spoke about culture, history, technical development and of course wildlife.
combo	Bernard is able to answer any question.
combo	Beyond that he is a very friendly person, service minded, caring, excellent driver and on top of that an outstanding wildlife spotter.
combo	Thanks to Bernard and my daugters luck we were in touch with a beautiful and impressive part of the world and saw beautiful and special animals.
combo	A really unforgettable trip."
combo	"I had a short tour but Chris, my driver, made it special.
combo	I recommend both the Company and Chris if you are planning a visit to Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	They are beautiful Countries, easy to Travel with very nice and warm people.
combo	A little paradise to preserve with a eco-aware tourism.
combo	You are in good hands"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa was great to work with.
combo	I had Guide William ""K"" for my 10 day trip to both Rwanda and Uganda to see the Gorillas, Chimps, Rhinos, Golden Monkeys, Hiking and safari drives.
combo	William K was the best Guide I've had in my 20+ years of travelling.
combo	He can tell you whatever you want to know about every bird, animal, plant, country history, etc.
combo	everywhere we went.
combo	I felt 100% comfortable being a single gal traveling.
combo	The lodges and hotels they chose were excellent and the food was always delicious.
combo	The company came through on every promise they made and more!
combo	I can't speak highly enough about the company and William K. If you are considering a trip to Rwanda and/or Uganda, I suggest you consider Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	Its great experience to visit the Gorilla Trek in Africa .Tourist guide Eric was very helpful and provide us all the information about the about the places we visited Genocide museum also .Overall a wonderful experience to visit Gorilla trek in Kigali.Highly Recommended .
combo	"I have wanted to see gorillas for most of my life and to finally have this experience was amazing.
combo	I chose to partially organise our trip to Rwanda but every aspect to do with the gorilla trek I left to Nelson to organise.
combo	Prior to our guide, Eric, collecting us from our hotel we had 2 nights in Kigali to ensure we were rested and ready for the trek.
combo	I have a very bad back and a knee that is heading towards knee replacement soon so knew this was the time to try and do the trek before my body made it even less feasible.
combo	Eric took us to the Genocide Museum before taking us towards Volcanoes National Park for our overnight stay prior to the trek the next day.
combo	Eric is a great guide who explained so much to us along the way and stopped for regular photo ops.
combo	Once he dropped us at our overnight accommodation we were left to settle in before he collected us the next morning for our trek.
combo	On arriving at the national park Eric was amazing, he spoke with the head guy there and arranged for us to go on an easier trek due to my back and knee issues.
combo	This can't always be a guaranteed outcome but Eric was wonderful in advocating for me and we were lucky to get one of the easiest treks of the day.
combo	Make sure you hire porters, not only are you then providing income for the local people but you are leaving yourself free to focus purely on the trek.
combo	I hired 2 porters, one to hep me if needed and the other to carry my partner's backpack.
combo	The porters know every rocky spot, every area where you may struggle and are instantly there helping you even before you realise you need it.
combo	It was hard to watch a young lady from Brazil in our group who came completely unprepared.
combo	She had no backpack, no drinking water, had even had to hire some appropriate clothes that day for the trek.
combo	Don't be that person, read up and research what to wear and take and don't be the only person on your trek to not hire a porter.
combo	It costs as little as $10 US for a porter and is a great give back to the locals.
combo	I paid each of ours $20 US and I also gave good tips to each of the trackers (5 of them!
combo	in the park itself after we saw the gorillas.
combo	I also gave our head guide $50 US to thank him for his excellent guiding and ensuring our group were all doing ok. We had 2 ladies in their 70s, one who was doing fairly well and the other who was struggling more to do the trek.
combo	She had 2 porters helping her and they were ready and willing to carrying her when and where needed.
combo	If you think you can't do this trek, think again.
combo	They have taken a guy in who is wheelchair bound (with 2 full time nurses), they have taken people in on stretchers.
combo	They will go out of their way to get you into the park and get you to where you can see these magnificant creatures.
combo	All up our trek was 3 hours which included the 1 hour with the gorillas.
combo	We were lucky that we only had 1 hour and 40 minutes of reasonably gentle up hill trekking before they were found and then a much faster 20 minutes back down.
combo	However, be prepared for thick jungle, there were times I had to bend right down and not quite crawl but close to it to get through the undergrowth and it did take its toll on my back but I had prepared myself as best I could before and ensured I had a great bed that night to rest in before flying out the next day.
combo	I am sure all the guides at Gorilla Trek are great but Eric was excellent and I can't recommend him highly enough.
combo	Don't forget to give your GTA guide a tip as well, Eric deserved every cent we gave him."
combo	"We decided to book our trip to Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa due to their very good reviews on Trip Advisor and we certainly did not regret this decision.
combo	Nelson organised an excellent itinerary for us that allowed us to have some flexibility whilst in Rwanda.
combo	We did a 3 day trip with a visit to the Genocide Museum in Kigali, a gorilla trek (highly recommended), a golden monkey trek and a very enjoyable side trip to the Twin Lakes.
combo	Our guide for the trip was Enos who was very knowledgeable and provided us with valuable insights into the lives of the Rwandian people.
combo	He was very obliging and went out of his was to ensure we had a wonderful holiday.
combo	We enjoyed his company, and the company of the trainee guide Peter he had with him, immensely.
combo	Enos recommended visiting a larger gorilla family and negotiated for us to visit the Pablo family.
combo	The trek was considered a medium/difficult trek.
combo	We saw 20 of the 23 gorillas in the family and thoroughly enjoyed the 40 minute drive and 2 1/2 hour one way trek to 3,050m.
combo	The weather was fine and the trek reasonably easy despite my husband & I both being over 60.
combo	No one in our group experienced any problems with altitude sickness.
combo	Our accomodation in the Volcanoes National Park was 5 Volcanoes Hotel which we were very happy with (Reviewed separately).
combo	This trip was one of the highlights of our time in Africa and we highly recommend both Enos and GTA."
combo	"We did a 3 day trip with this company and it was excellent.
combo	Our guide, Gavis, was excellent - very helpful, interesting, friendly, relaxed and accommodating to our needs.
combo	The gorilla trek was harder than we expected, but totally worth it to see the gorillas!
combo	The Golden Monkeys involved a much easier hike, but we loved getting so close to them.
combo	All in all, a truly great trip with a fantastic guide.
combo	We highly recommend this company and the 3 day trip."
combo	What can you say - an experience of a lifetime - costly but worth the money.
combo	Remember you will need a second layer and water proofs.
combo	"An absolutely brilliant experience and worth every penny.
combo	Nelson was quick to respond to messages and the staff at the forest were reliable, trustworthy and really helpful.
combo	I definitely recommend the help of a porter on the trek, not only to help with luggage but to help give back to the local community too.
combo	Watching the gorillas was an experience never to be forgotten and gorilla trek africa made sure all our needs were met."
combo	"I just returned from a 5day tour and can't give enough praise to express my fantastic experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	After reading many positive reviews about this organization on Tripadvisor, I decided to email the company and inquire about a potential 5day Gorilla Tour / Safari (Rwanda&Uganda).
combo	Nelson was extremely helpful in creating a customized itinerary that worked for us, and answered all the questions that I had in a very timely manner.
combo	We had several email exchanges and phone calls, and a few days before the trip I received confirmation from Nelson that Bernard would be our tour guide.
combo	We spent 5 days touring Uganda together with Bernard, from the early mornings until evening, and we could not have wished for a better guide.
combo	Not only is Bernard super knowledgeable about everything there is to know about Rwanda, Uganda and the wider East African region (he will be able to answer any question that you have whether related to wildlife, culture, history, politics you name it), but also is Bernard a very social, humble, caring and humorist person who filled the days with many laughs and entertained us with great stories throughout the long drives.
combo	I should also note that he is an excellent driver and made sure we arrived safe at every destination.
combo	With Bernard as our guide, we had an amazing travel experience and feel that I have made a new lifelong friend.
combo	I would recommend him and Gorilla Trek Africa without any hesitation.
combo	Thank you again for this great adventure!"
combo	"We just had a 3 day tour with these guys and they were great.
combo	Very helpful, and clear and prompt with their communication.
combo	They negotiated with us about our ideas and we were very happy with the end result!
combo	We had a lovely trip seeing the gorillas and genocide museum!
combo	Pros: - seemed a very reasonable price for what we got!
combo	We compared quotes with other companies and they were by far the best for a private guide -easy to communicate with via email.
combo	Quick at replying.
combo	Worked out a customized itinerary around what was important to us.
combo	offered budget, midrange or luxury accommodation options.
combo	We went for midrange and couldn't imagine what else we could want!
combo	It was great!
combo	Cons - our guide sometimes had a little english difficulty with comprehending our questions, but he was friendly and tried really really hard so not a problem.
combo	Apart from that can't think of any!"
combo	"I can't praise this company and my tour guide Gavis Muliika enough.
combo	I am lucky to have travelled to many countries but my five days in Rwanda and Uganda have been amongst the best ever.
combo	Gavis,s driving over some of the roughest roads with spectacular views was fantastic and we quickly formed a comfortable and humorist bond.
combo	Thank you for the experience and also for Nelson,s assistance in putting it all together.
combo	Went for luxury accommodation and would recommend definitely value for money"
combo	"I had been wanting to admire gorillas in the wild for years!...so glad my experience was well worth the wait!!
combo	Despite what I had heard numerous times I am very glad that I did my trek in Uganda.
combo	My guide (& now brother) Elias is knowledgeable, kind, genuine & accommodating.
combo	I had a wonderful time exploring Uganda with him & would highly recommend him!"
combo	"This is a once in a lifetime experience, even though it can be a difficult and long walk to get to the gorillas once you see these amazing animals you forget about the trek.
combo	It is super well organised, fantastic trackers, porters (a must to have a porter) and guides.
combo	You get one hour with these majestic creatures so enjoy every minute, don't waste your time spending the whole hour looking through the lense of a camera, photos won't do justice to your experience.
combo	Your guide is very aware and gives plenty of breaks in the trek, but I am told when you arrive they choose a trek for you on your physical appearance, so even if you ask for the closest group if you look fit and healthy you may end up trekking for 2.5 hours up and 1.5 back as I did."
combo	"A great trip from the moment we were picked up at the airport on Kigali until the moment we were dropped off.
combo	Nelson answered my booking queries promptly and came up with an itinerary to suit our date requirements.
combo	Our guide Garvis was a pleasure and his extensive number of friends and contacts we encountered throughout the trip eased formalities and provided useful tips on local conditions and game locations.
combo	The first two days involved considerable traveling, but it was best to get that done early in the trip.
combo	An option worth considering may be to add a day to the trip and spend two nights at Primates lodge.
combo	Gavis added some pleasant detours such as a visit to a fishing village on Lake George.
combo	Throughout the trip he pointed out things of local interest and made sure we stopped at good view points.
combo	He made sure all our special requests were met.
combo	Many thanks guys for a great week."
combo	"This certainly is a lifetime experience and not to be missed by those who can afford the high price for this in Rwanda.
combo	It is very well planned and lots of support from the guides.
combo	The Treks can be tough for the not so fit but guides help you and even carry you if required.
combo	It can be from 90 minutes to even 6 hours ( for the very fit).
combo	Once the Gorillas are sighted you spend one out with them observing the family going about there activities from eating to playing to resting etc.
combo	They are very much similar to humans.....though I am of opinion that they behave better than us in the modern world of Wars, drugs, corruption, rapes etc.
combo	A Gorillas trek in Rwanda is very safe and is nature at its best."
combo	"Experienced and informative staff, this area is organised very well, you feel looked after.
combo	The staff have obvious pride in their animals but are also very protective of them.
combo	We visited Gorillas one day and Golden monkeys the next.
combo	It was a privilege.
combo	One note though is, I wasn't prepared for the altitude and how exhausted it gets travelling even a short distance."
combo	"Gorilla Trek were great - Chris was there to pick me up at the airport and was very professional and knowledgeable.
combo	He was part of the team that habituated the gorillas, and had worked extensively in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest as a scientist, so he had a wealth of knowledge about the gorillas and their habitat.
combo	It was great because he could answer all my questions.
combo	He was always friendly, on time, and helpful.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was simply amazing.
combo	Each experience varies, but I was in a group with 6 other tourists, and we hiked about 1 hour 15 minutes.
combo	I would say the hiking is not easy (very hilly and slippery) so dress appropriately (hiking boots), but the forest is beautiful.
combo	Seeing the gorillas is worth any amount of hiking!
combo	They were simply stunning.
combo	We saw a silverback (Rukura), a mother and 3 month old baby, some juveniles, and, my favourite, Kabindize, a blackback who we got the best view of.
combo	They were so peaceful yet powerful and it's astounding that we can get so close to them.
combo	I couldn't recommend the experience enough and Gorilla Trek were really great.
combo	A big thanks to Chris for all his help and knowledge!"
combo	"I just came back from a wonderful trip between Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	A 7 days safari and Gorilla trek.
combo	This trip has been perfect since the beginning, with Nelson helping very proactively by answering all my queries.
combo	The trip itself was even better with the great guide i was appointed to William K. (I strongly recomend him for future travelers).
combo	William K. Was professional, knowledgeable, very friendly.
combo	This type of service makes your.experience so much better.
combo	So I absolutely recommend Gorilla Trek to anyone interested on going to visit East Africa and especially going to visit the Gorilla's."
combo	"I had been searching for a company who I could trust as I was travelling as a solo female traveller.
combo	I chose this company based on others reviews and the prompt and professional contact from Nelson.
combo	I wasnt disappointed.
combo	I arrived in Kigali after a long and delayed flight at 6pm instead of 12.30 and was very happy to see a driver, David waiting for me.
combo	He had a huge welcoming smile which instantly put me at ease.
combo	We drove to the hotel and reached there around 9.30 pm.
combo	The staff were accommodating and friendly.
combo	The gorilla experience was exceptional.
combo	2 silverbacks, mothers and babies.
combo	Due to limited time I only did the 2 day gorilla trek.
combo	My driver David went above and beyond to ensure my stay was enjoyable and I reached the airport in time.
combo	Even drove me around Kigali and pointed out places of interest on the way.
combo	I left a certificate in Davids car when he dropped me off so rang the office to ask Nelson to post it to my home as I would soon board the plane.
combo	When I finally reached the boarding gate a member of staff handed it to me.
combo	David had returned to the airport and given it to airline staff to be passed onto me.
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa, and cant thank Nelson, his team and my driver David enough."
combo	"I did quite a bit of research to choose a tour operator for a gorilla trek and ended up going with Gorilla Trek Africa because of the wonderful reviews on here and because of Nelson's responsiveness from the outset of my contact with the company!
combo	I don't regret my choice one bit.
combo	Even though I booked the trip fairly last minute, GTA was able to arrange my entire weekend and secure a permit for me to track gorillas in Uganda ...and all went super smoothly.
combo	My tour guide, Asaph, was also wonderful: a wealth of knowledge, thoughtful and accommodating.
combo	He did so much to make this experience an extremely memorable one from stopping along the road to take photos to sharing his experiences growing up in Rwanda and Uganda to making sure I was able to track a gorilla family with two babies and three silverbacks (from what I heard from others at the park this was the best family to track in the area!).
combo	Thank you for an unforgettable trip!"
combo	"I am a solo traveller who used Gorilla Trek Africa for my visit to Rwanda and the Volcanos National Park and I'm so glad I did.
combo	Nelson was extremely prompt in his reply and personalised the visit according to my needs.
combo	The payment portal was very convenient and had no issues.
combo	On arrival into Kigali very early I was met by Asaph who was very enthusiastic and super friendly.
combo	If you get a chance to use him as your guide I highly recommend him.
combo	He was so knowledgeable on all matters relating to Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	He drove me around to all the areas I wanted to visit in Kigali before heading out to the Gorillas.
combo	Asaph has a great story to tell and his conversational skills are excellent, never a dull moment.
combo	I feel he went above and beyond with all my requests and really made this experience one I will never forget.
combo	I was assigned the Agashya group who had a one week old baby which was incredible to see.
combo	We were very fortunate that we only had a one hour thirty easy hike to get to the family.
combo	Other groups who were assigned an easier family actually trekked much longer to get to them.
combo	Our groups pace was set by an elderly gentleman who managed the uphill portions with multiple breaks so some degree of fitness is going to make the Trek more enjoyable.
combo	Make sure you hire a porter as these guys really help out through the difficult sections and you are contributing to their livelihood.
combo	I only used Rwandan Francs for tipping/paying and it was very well received so I don't think you necessarily have to use US dollars but either option is fine.
combo	Some general tips on what to wear ( what I found useful): Sturdy hiking boots Gaiters to protect your feet/legs from ants and nettle.
combo	Got stung above the knee when kneeling to take photos ( everyone reacts differently but I had a slight stinging/itching sensation for about ten minutes and redness for the rest of the day).
combo	The excitement of being surrounded by the gorillas took my mind off the annoying itch.
combo	I wore lightweight hiking pants and a lightweight shirt with a fleece pullover ( it gets chilly at the start and you quickly warm up) Gloves were a great idea as you are constantly pushing climbing over/under bamboo/vines and nettle and this protected my hands.
combo	2 litres of water and some snacks The second Trek that the company organised was to see Diann Fosseys gravesite.
combo	This Trek was much harder as the initial part is a steep incline.
combo	You can do it in an hour and twenty if you have good fitness but on average 2 and a half hours.
combo	Highly recommend doing this if you can.
combo	We had Francois as our guide who actually worked as a porter for Diann when she was living in the mountains.
combo	Such a wealth of information and one of life's true characters.
combo	Overall this company exceeded all my expectations and I will definitely use them again when I'm next in Africa.
combo	Rwanda blew my mind as a country and was amazed at how safe, clean and friendly everyone was."
combo	"We had the wonderful opportunity to experience Rwanda with Gavis of GTA.
combo	Taking a step back, we initially spoke with Bill Williams GTA's USA contact and then starting communicating with Nelson, the owner of GTA.
combo	From the beginning GTA promptly responded to our many questions over numerous emails.
combo	Although we were concerned with wiring money it was simple and we received a receipt when requested.
combo	Our 4-day program started in Kigali and Gavis arrived at our hotel early and greeted us with a warm welcome.
combo	We started our program by going to a local market that tourists did not go to, which was fascinating.
combo	We then visited the powerful Genocide Museum whose exhibits were thoughtful and moving.
combo	An important visit and one that should not be missed.
combo	After the sobering experience we went to a local restaurant Gavis recommended.
combo	We enjoyed local dishes outside under an umbrella.
combo	From there we began our drive to Kinigi, near the park.
combo	Gavis is extremely personable and has a wonderful sense of humor.
combo	The drive went swiftly and our conversations covered a myriad of topics.
combo	He is a very good driver and pointed out of things that he thought would interest us.
combo	There were ample bathroom breaks and water was available to keep us hydrated.
combo	Throughout our 4-day program that included half-day city tour, 2 gorilla treks and a golden monkey trek with 3 nights at a lodge.
combo	We felt taken care of and when we arrived at the lodges everything was smooth.
combo	Gavis always advised us after each program of the timing of the next activity.
combo	He was always ready and early for each program.
combo	Although I will write separate reviews of the lodges we stayed in -Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (1 night) and Five Volcanos (2 nights) I did want to note that we preferred Five Volcanos.
combo	We were unable to get into Five Volcanos the first night hence the lodge change.
combo	The attention at Five Volcanos was more personal and intimate.
combo	Not to mention the unlimited bottled/filtered water, cafe (including coffee drinks), gaiters, snacks and delicious meals.
combo	Regarding the gorilla trekking, it is magical and something that should be in everyone's bucket list.
combo	The golden monkeys were also a treat.
combo	It is important to mention that Gavis was instrumental at the National Park and making sure that the gorilla families we were assigned to were special.
combo	There is definitely some ""jockeying"" at the National Park with the permits.
combo	Again everything was in place and there were no permit hiccups as all we had to do was watch the traditional dance performance and everything was taken care of.
combo	is fortunate to have Gavis as one of their esteemed guides.
combo	I cannot imagine a better person to share in our amazing Rwandan experience.
combo	When you book with GTA please ask for Gavis.
combo	Your experience will be enhanced with him as your guide."
combo	"Great operation, very well organized and detail oriented, with fun guides.
combo	Starts in the morning with a festive dance and matching you and your group to a gorilla trek leader.
combo	Caution: There are several groups of gorillas to find, all at different distances up the mountains.
combo	YOUR HIKING DISTANCE/ LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY CAREFULLY.
combo	""Easy"" is really not.
combo	You need to be in shape.
combo	""Medium"" is hard...the mountains are steep.
combo	Very steep.
combo	Plus, the gorillas can move on you...ours did....turning a 1 hour hike into a 3 hour one.
combo	one way!
combo	Be realistic.
combo	Once the gorillas are reached, its like nothing else you have ever seen.
combo	Magical.
combo	Tip: don't try to take 1000 photos.
combo	National Geographic does that.
combo	Make sure you put the camera down and just soak in the moment.
combo	It's awesome.
combo	A silverback came and sat 1 foot away from me!
combo	It was incredible.
combo	Enjoy!"
combo	"My husband and I did the 2-day gorilla trek and it was amazing.
combo	Eric, our host and driver went above and beyond to make our visit exceptional.
combo	We will definitely come back to visit Rwanda as this was such a life changing experience for us both.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"This was a very special trip starting in Kigali and then to Volvanoes National park.
combo	The company delivered everything they quoted to the last details.
combo	Our day in Kigali was great and the drive to the park was beautiful.
combo	Great stay at 5 Swiss in Kigali.
combo	Hotel at the park was Five Volcanoes hotel, a treat of a deluxe room that included turn down service with a hot water bottle.
combo	The next day was all about the trek and I can't believe how close we were to the gorillas.
combo	The guide and his assistants were great helping us through the jungle and positioning us to see the gorillas but respect their space.
combo	Great job Gorilla Trek Africa Ltd.
combo	Even better though was our guide Moses Williams, a very knowledgeable guide who was really thorough in his explanations and had a very nice sense of humor.
combo	Enough detail but not too much.
combo	Moses was really awesome and took our experience and adventure to another level.
combo	Thank you Moses!
combo	When you book ask for him."
combo	"I would like to grab the opportunity to express my appreciation to the team of Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	From the first email I sent to them, these guys have been nothing but friendly and helpful!
combo	I traveled to Rwanda on my own and it was a great pleasure to have Asaph as my driver/ guide.
combo	Very friendly, very professional and very informative!
combo	No doubt visiting the North part of Rwanda, have a glimpse of the authentic life that the locals live and most certainly to visit the gorillas was an experience that I will treasure for the rest of my life!
combo	I highly recommend this company to all of you!
combo	While we were climbing up to visit the gorillas, I met some people who previously visited them in Uganda but they all said they vouch for the Rwandan experience.
combo	All you need for this trip is: comfortable pair of shoes, open mind and a great spirit!
combo	Once again a huge thank you to Nelson, Asaph and also the back of the house staff who makes this an experience of a lifetime to all, who travel as far as Rwanda!"
combo	"My son and I wanted to see gorillas and used TripAdvisor to find a guide.
combo	seemed to have very positive reviews - highlighting thoughtful and reliable guides - so we emailed Nelson and began a conversation about options and availability.
combo	Our plans were evolving and we considered a number of different options - Nelson replied quickly and clearly to all our inquires.
combo	Note, Nelson manages the business coordinating the schedules for guides and is the point of contact for clients - all of which went smoothly.
combo	So based on these email conversations we paid via credit card the hefty fee (majority of which goes to Rwanda Development Board helping Rwanda, the gorillas and their national park).
combo	Was not sure how it would turn out as we didn't know anyone first hand who had used GTA.
combo	Happily all went beyond our expectations.
combo	Our guide Bob was wonderful - thoughtful, efficient and knowledgeable.
combo	Our experience was tremendous and he played a big role - there is some behind the scenes deliberation amongst the different guides early in the morning before the trek where they divide up the large group into smaller smaller groups based on ability and that determines which family of gorillas you get to trek to and see.
combo	Our group was perfect for us, and without Bobs help we wouldn't have known how to arrange that.
combo	We spent a lot of time w Bob and learned about the history of the gorillas and the area.
combo	Thoroughly enjoyed our experience.
combo	The lodging was deep in the forest, rustic and peaceful.
combo	Rough road for five minutes before you get to hotel - but you're in a four by four so it fine but just want to help set expectations accordingly.
combo	Pleasant and helpful staff.
combo	Good food.
combo	Our trek took longer than expected so we got back later than others but we're still able to get lunch and a quick shower before heading back to Kigali.
combo	Two options for trek day food: 1, ask staff at dinner to prepare a box lunch for the next day or 2, at breakfast pick out a snack and after the trek come back for lunch.
combo	We choose snack and then lunch which worked well for us.
combo	Our trek was ""intermediate"" level - easy, intermediate and hard are the options.
combo	Not sure what hard would be, ours was fully a real workout - we are fairly active and have hiked some hard stuff beforehand.
combo	The hike was up through the bamboo to the top of one of the mountains and then down a little into a lush ravine where we found a family of 17 led by an enormous Silverback.
combo	An infant being nursed by her mother, a baby wandering about, a female gorilla who swung around us on a vine and kept close eyes on us, two males who also came up to and around us.
combo	This is more a review of GTA than gorillas so I will stop talking about the family of gorillas - but summarize it as being worth the cost and effort.
combo	Back to GTA - I highly recommend using them and will again if and when we come back here."
combo	From the moment we were picked up at the airport our guide Gavis made our time in Rwanda extremely enjoyable.
combo	Gavis is a wonderful guide with a smile that is contagious and has a personality that makes it seem you are traveling with a close friend.
combo	He took care of the arrangements for our gorilla treks with the care and concern one would show for a family member.
combo	We highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and Gavis.
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa is an absolutely FANTASTIC tour operator.
combo	We just returned from a week long trip to Rwanda guided by the wonderful Eric Manzi.
combo	Eric's knowledge of all things Rwandan is astounding.
combo	We love birding and Eric helped us to locate over 30 new species in 4 days on a trip that was really focused on primates!!
combo	Nelson in the main office was incredibly helpful in putting together a tour that precisely met our needs, and I might add he was always responsive and thorough in answering every question (and boy we had a million of them).
combo	Our every need and desire was met perfectly.
combo	The main office is in Uganda and the company arranges trips to both countries.
combo	Our trip was exclusively to Rwanda.
combo	if I sound enthusiastic it is because this has been our best trip yet to Africa and we had been happy on two previous trips to other parts of the continent.
combo	I cannot recommend Gorilla Trek Africa highly enough."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa provided my daughter and I with the trip of a lifetime (June 24-July 2).
combo	My planning started by going to Trip Advisor last fall and looking for a local company with great reviews.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was at the top of the list and it did not disappoint me.
combo	Nelson responded quickly with ideas for our trip and continued with immediate responses to my questions for the next 7 months as we worked out logistics and lodging.
combo	I also read the reviews so I could request a guide and we had the BEST….William K. I cannot say enough positive things about William.
combo	He was a professional from the moment he met us in Kigali and over the next 8 days he also became our friend.
combo	He was so attentive to our needs and fun to be with.
combo	I am 74 years old and William was always there for assistance if I needed it or to be sure that I was in the appropriate tracking group.
combo	We were particularly impressed with his knowledge of the area, the terrain, and the people.
combo	With his college degree in tourism, he is very positive about the future of tourism in Rwanda and Uganda and is active in promoting tourism.
combo	He is an avid and knowledgeable “birder” which was wonderful.
combo	My daughter enjoys birds and so William’s knowledge made every bird we saw a learning experience.
combo	I inadvertently left my computer at Bakiga Lodge in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
combo	In cleaning our room, it was found and the lodge called the office who in turn contacted William.
combo	Through the coordination by William, the Gorilla Trek Office, and the staff at the Bakiga Lodge, my laptop was returned safely to me in Kampala.
combo	I cannot express my appreciation enough for everyone’s effort.
combo	Mountain Gorilla Trek in Rwanda.
combo	The experience of a lifetime!
combo	We were supposedly in the “easiest” tracking group but our trek up still took 2 ½ hours and pushed the limits of my physical ability.
combo	Eugene, our guide, made sure that I got enough opportunities to rest and the other four members of our group were very patient.
combo	Our hour with the gorillas went far too quickly but we saw two Silverbacks and their family.
combo	Then the two hour trek down.
combo	I never would have made it without the support of two incredible young porters, Japhet and Phocus, hand chosen by Willliam.
combo	Hopefully the future holds promising outcomes for these two.
combo	Golden Monkeys.
combo	This was another phenomenal experience with an easier hike of about 2 ½ hours in the bamboo forest.
combo	It was a much larger group but there were over a hundred Golden Monkeys for us to enjoy.
combo	I also had a very good porter, John, again hand chosen by William, and his support was very much appreciated.
combo	Chimpanzees.
combo	This was another manageable hike through the bush but not as rewarding as the other two experiences.
combo	Our guide did not seem as competent in locating the chimps and we seemed to just scurry after another group in the same area.
combo	By the time we would arrive to where the other group had been observing the chimps, the chimps were moving on.
combo	I would still highly recommend this experience.
combo	Our other experiences included a drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park which we might replace with a drive to Murchison Falls another time, a boat ride down the Kazinga Channel which was well worth it for elephants, hippos, wildebeests and zebras, and a Bota Bota tour on our last day in Kampala.
combo	During this tour, we were able to stop at a small craft market.
combo	This was a great place to shop for gifts and handicrafts.
combo	Again, William went with us as our guide as recommended by Nelson, and we fully agreed with this advice and we had a fun time.
combo	So, 10 stars for Gorilla Trek Africa and 25 stars for our guide, William, and the outstanding porters that he chose to help me.
combo	Please feel free to contact me or my daughter with any questions"
combo	"I took a 2 days tour from Rwanda to Uganda.
combo	I loved it.
combo	The trip went with no problem whatsoever, including the border crossing.
combo	Car is excellent and accommodation was really charming (Gorilla in the mist).
combo	Special thanks goes to Gavis, the guide, who took care of me as If i was part of his family!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa provided me and my two friends an absolutely AMAZING experience trekking the gorillas!
combo	You will be VERY pleased if you chose them!
combo	I initially chose them because they (my main contact was Nelson) was so timely and thorough with their responses to my inquiries.
combo	It was a bit of a gamble with so many companies offering the trekking.
combo	But I am so thrilled a did pick them!!
combo	I also cannot begin to express how incredible our guide (Enos) was and how fantastic he made EVERYTHING for us.
combo	He made certain we got the best gorilla group.
combo	I am also in a wheelchair and he knew all the people, how to negotiate with them, and where were the best places to see the most gorillas.
combo	I think it says a lot about this company that they were so willing and eager to help someone in a wheelchair.
combo	Enos instructed everyone how to take care of me.
combo	Those carrying my wheelchair were perfect in every way.
combo	Enos is such an incredible man with such an extremely vast body of knowledge and is able to explain things so incredibly well.
combo	At one point, he sat with us for an hour to explain the genocide from every angle and we learned so much.
combo	Again, you will be VERY pleased if you chose Gorilla Trek Africa!
combo	YOU!!!!!
combo	Bob Bell"
combo	"I wanted to take a short trip to Rwanda, particularly to do the gorilla trek and visit a child I sponsor with Compassion.
combo	It was my first time traveling solo in Rwanda, and Gorilla Trek Africa did an excellent job coordinating the details.
combo	Gavis picked me up promptly at 8:00 a.m. at the Five to Five Hotel (recommended by Gorilla Trek Africa; it is a moderate hotel, but the closest to the airport, and the airport shuttle was waiting for me when I arrived.
combo	It was very safe and clean, and so I recommend it for those coming in the night before they start their tour with Gorilla Trek Africa).
combo	Gavis immediately helped me exchange some dollars for Rwandan Francs (not important if you stay in the main tourist area, but extremely important if you want to purchase anything away from there), and helped me make a local phone call to finalize my plans for after the gorilla trek.
combo	Because I had been to Rwanda once before, I asked to not do the tour of Kigali and the Genocide Museum, and instead I wanted to visit Imbabazi, Roz Carr's plantation, which was turned into an orphanage after the genocide and now runs a preschool.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was very accommodating of my request, and Gavis did an excellent job finding the site (which was not easy).
combo	We had a nice lunch at the Five Volcanoes Hotel (a lovely hotel, where the staff was incredibly pleasant and helpful), and then went to the Gorilla Guardians cultural village for the afternoon.
combo	The gorilla trek was scheduled for the next morning, and Gavis was very good at helping me to prepare for the trek, and at getting me in the perfect group for my fitness abilities.
combo	The gorilla trek involved about a 2 1/2 hour walk up, an hour with the gorillas (which is wonderful and different from any other animal experience you could ever have), and a 1 hour walk back down.
combo	The next day we did the golden monkey trek (also well worth the time and money), and then Gavis found the Solace Guest House where I was staying next, and got me there at a good time that afternoon.
combo	Because it takes some time to drive from Kigali to Musanze, it was very helpful that Gavis was a good conversationalist.
combo	I also appreciated having time to myself in the late afternoon and evenings, so that I could contact folks back home and enjoy some relaxing time in the gardens at the hotel.
combo	I was initially anxious about traveling to Rwanda solo, and about booking my trip with a company that I had only read about on Tripadvisor; however, everything went very smoothly.
combo	I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
combo	If there are any other women who are traveling solo to Rwanda, and have any questions, I would be happy to address them."
combo	"I had a fantastic experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I was in correspondence with Nelson (and certain other individuals from other tour companies) a week or so before my trip.
combo	During this time, as one might expect, I had many questions about the logistics, fees and tailoring the tour.
combo	Unlike any other company I contacted, Nelson patiently and promptly responded to my queries, which illustrated exemplary customer satisfaction.
combo	I eventually made it to Kigali and booked a four day tour to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - for gorilla trekking and community walks - the night before I wanted to commence the tour.
combo	Nelson and his team, mainly Asaph (my chivalrous tour guide), were extremely accommodating given the short notice period.
combo	I was very impressed by this.
combo	Asaph is an excellent tour guide; he is very knowledgable on just about everything I asked him, including gorillas, farming, and Rwandan and Ugandan culture.
combo	Asaph is kind and thoughtful; he remembered certain errands I had to run which he helped me achieve, such as find a post office to send postcards.
combo	By the end of the trip I like to think that he and I became good friends.
combo	During my stay at the beautiful Bakiga Lodge, there were other Gorilla Trek tour guide who I met, all of whom were polite, and other who were very fun to hang out with, such as William.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa truly enhanced my solo traveller experience, and I would highly recommend this company to family, friends, and friends I have met yet; go with Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"If you're even debating whether to do this or not, just do it!
combo	We did a 3-day tour, the first day in Kigali, the second day gorilla trekking and the third golden monkey trekking.
combo	The gorilla trek was probably one of the best things I've ever done.
combo	We had an up close experience with a family of 16 gorillas which really is once in a lifetime.
combo	I'm even happier that we did our trek with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	They were extremely helpful, knowledgeable, pleasant, reliable which made for a fantastic tour.
combo	Our accommodation was also great."
combo	"Travel for a conference was taking me to Kigali, Rwanda, so I decided to book a gorilla trek.
combo	The Rwanda trekking permits were sold out, but Gorilla Trek Africa offered me an alternative 2 day trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda.
combo	The $1300 price (for one person) included the permit, roundtrip private transport in a well maintained and safe vehicle, budget accommodations at Bakiga Lodge (also super comfortable and located in a stunning location) all meals and non-alcoholic beverages (plenty of bottled water was provided at no charge).
combo	Everything about the trip was outstanding, including the service of my driver/guide Krish, the local food at the Ugandan restaurant we stopped at for lunch, the accommodations at Bakiga Lodge, and the trek itself was an amazing experience.
combo	Many others have written reviews about the trekking at Bwindi, so I will only add that the trekking guide and trackers worked exceptionally hard to find our assigned gorilla family, as they had moved quite a distance from their usual location.
combo	I will add that I am a single white woman traveling alone, and at no time did I ever feel unsafe or at any kind of risk."
combo	"My wife and I decided on a gorilla trek a few months ago.
combo	Since my wife's back is sensitive to long distance travel, we decided that Rwanda would be best for our needs - good infrastructure, highest probability of seeing gorillas, well-supported cell phone networks, good (tarred) roads with shorter distances between the lodges and the airport... and excellent reviews from previous travellers.
combo	Our guide, Egide Mukama, an experienced and well-networked local resident spent the entire trip with us - arranging permits, acting as our driver, explaining the history of the country and taking us to excellent coffee shops and supermarkets used by the locals.
combo	He was highly professional and in light of my wife's back condition, drove very responsibly.
combo	My wife and I would highly recommend him!
combo	Just a few tips for aspiring Rwanda Gorilla trekkers: 1) Be prepared for the hikes - whether its the golden monkeys or the gorillas.
combo	These animals are constantly on the move and the intensity of the hikes can vary considerably to find them.
combo	We spent at least 3 days per week in the gym in the run-up to the trip and we think this definitely helped in appreciating the hikes more and also with altitude acclimatization.
combo	Keep well hydrated!
combo	2) Have the right gear - walking gloves, comfortable walking boots, bug sprays and gaiters definitely help...you want to spend your time appreciating these wonderful animals, not scratching and burning from insect and nettle stings.
combo	You can take your own hiking sticks or if you hire a porter, they will lend you one - take advantage of this; they are helpful and very considerate.
combo	3) Sequence your trip: Somewhere I got the impression from other reviews on this site that you have a choice as to the intensity of the gorilla hike you want to do - either easy, moderate or hard hikes.
combo	We didn't experience it like this.
combo	We bought the permits upfront through a travel agent and then it was up to your local guide to negotiate on your behalf as to which hike you will be allocated.
combo	However, if you have already done a walk or two the day before (like the golden monkey hike), then your guide can use this as a negotiating tool in arranging a specific gorilla hike for you with the park rangers...its just something to consider if your need, like in the case of my wife, is to see the gorillas and not simultaneously engage on a gruelling hike.
combo	4) Read literature and do research on the area being visited - even something straight forward like watching 'Gorillas in the Mist' beforehand greatly enhanced our experience.
combo	5) Take sturdy suitcases - our luggage seemed to have been roughly handled and we saw the zip mechanism was broken when we reached home 6) Security at Kigali airport is very tight.
combo	In all our travels, I have never been body searched twice before simply getting to the boarding gate - and a 3rd time after we needed the bathroom!
combo	Take a deep breath and remain calm and polite - the gorillas are worth it!!
combo	7) Weather variation between Kigali and Volcanoes National Park can be significant - layer your clothes to cater for different temperatures"
combo	This activity is a must in your bucket list.
combo	The Trek itself is challenging and beautiful.
combo	Usually a 3-5 hr hike.
combo	The Gorillas are just amazing.
combo	One can really get as close as 5 feet from them.
combo	Book in advance since there are only 96 permits per day.
combo	12 groups of 8 persons.
combo	"A must do on your trip to Africa.
combo	Prices were raised from $750 US to $1500 US on May 6th which I am hoping doesn't change things.
combo	If your travel guide gets there early, have them pick an easier trek so you will be at the gorillas within an hour.
combo	We did not find things muddy or difficult in the trek.
combo	We were advised to where long sleeves and long pants, gloves, and hat for the stinging nettles but our route was no problem.
combo	You leave your packs with the porters so bring a fanny pack for your passports, money, extra batteries and memory cards for taking with you when with the gorillas.
combo	High a porter to employ them.
combo	He carried our pack and helped in a couple of slippery areas.
combo	We paid him $15 US.
combo	Bring money for tipping the head guide, assistant guide, trekkers, and security."
combo	"We had a remarkable trip to Bwindi National Park in Uganda with Gavis as the guide!
combo	The trip was very well organized, with management responsive to all of our questions.
combo	Gavis helped with all of the details while on our trip and was a pleasure to work with.
combo	Spending time with the gorillas was even better than expected.
combo	Truly a unique and special experience.
combo	My only feedback going forward is to suggest the multiple entry visa to Rwanda if visiting the Uganda park to / from Rwanda to help reduce the transit tlme back to Rwanda afterwards.
combo	Also, there was a local community tour the evening of our trip, so please make sure that you bring some Uganda money for donations / tips.
combo	Otherwise, the trip and gorilla experience was amazing!"
combo	"We just returned from a week in Uganda and Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We highly recommend them if you want the adventure of a lifetime.
combo	We did gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Uganda and in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda as well as a chimpanzee trek in the Kibale National Park and a game drive and boat game ride in Queen Elizabeth's National Park.
combo	It was the trip of a lifetime and I'm still pinching myself that I saw the mountain gorillas twice.
combo	In Rwanda, one gorilla came through the bushes, stopped and gently touched my husbands leg before continuing on its way.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was wonderful from the very beginning.
combo	Nelson in the office always promptly got back to me via email and was helpful in planning the trip and with all of the details.
combo	Our guide Bob was excellent and I highly recommend requesting him.
combo	He was professional, knowledgable, and just a great guy.
combo	He really took care that we had a great trip.
combo	We chose budget hotels, but they were excellent all with great views and amazing service.
combo	I'm a huge fan of Dian Fossey who studied the gorillas in Rwanda and they specially booked me in her room (that they've kept exactly the same since her death in 1985) at the hotel she stayed in when not in the field with the gorillas.
combo	If you do go, be sure to read her book, Gorillas in the Mist for a fascinating account of the Mountain Gorillas.
combo	If you want t a great experience gorilla trekking and visiting Rwanda and Uganda, I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"I went on the 2-day tour (1 day trek) to Bwindi park.
combo	I had an excellent time with Gorllla Trek Africa, largely due to the people at the organization.
combo	Nelson was very responsive and timely to my inquiries leading up to the treat and he was very flexible and accommodating with last minute changes and updates to my itinerary.
combo	Elias, my guide for the trip, went above and beyond to make sure my experience was the best it could be.
combo	He scouted out the trekking guide who would go to the largest gorilla family (19 members!
combo	and had a shorter walking distance to allow for maximal time with the gorillas (1 hour!).
combo	I came unprepared for this since I was visiting primarily for work, so he lent me his backpack and made sure I had everything I needed.
combo	He offered a lot of interesting information on the ride over--pointing out facts about the lifestyle, culture, history, agriculture, etc.
combo	about Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Aside from the guides, the accommodations at Gorilla Mist Camp were great--the staff were friendly and accommodating, the views were amazing, and the room itself was comfortable.
combo	The guides at the park really knew their stuff--they offered a great informational overview and made every effort during the trek to make sure we had a good experience."
combo	"Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is expensive.
combo	Hence you expect everything to be perfect.
combo	With Gorilla Trek Africa and Sam Elliot, it was.
combo	Thanks a lot for everything!"
combo	"Have almost finished a great 4 days staying at the Gorilla Safari Lodge for 2 nights at Uganda, an amazing gorilla trek in the Bwindi national park followed by a night at the Bamboo Gorilla Lodge in the Volcanoes National Park at Rwanda and the a trek to the Golden Monkeys Everything was well organised and our experience was made even more enjoyable due to our Guide Gavis who was both great company and knowledgable and navigated the difficult roads with patience and skill.
combo	Nothing was a trouble including orchestrating our last minute change of plans enabling us to visit the Golden Monkeys In Rwanda.
combo	For a 4 day visitI would highly recommend our amended Itinery, the Gorilla Trek Safari company and Gavis as the Guide."
combo	"Before planning our trip to Rwanda, I was checking the reviews of Gorilla Trek Africa on TripAdvisor everyday.
combo	I did this for a couple of reasons; to assure myself that Rwanda and the Volcanoes National Park was a safe place to visit (despite its close proximity to DRC) and that the high cost of the experience would be worth it.
combo	We had never been to Africa and Rwanda was about as remote as we had ever ventured.
combo	And every day, there would be new reviews of the Gorilla Trek Africa - all with ""5 stars"".
combo	I reached out to GTA through TripAdvisor - and within an hour, Nelson had emailed back with all the details.
combo	I immediately felt at ease.
combo	Nelson does a phenomenal job of answering all your questions and making you feel instantly comfortable.
combo	He is extremely diligent and pays a great deal of attention to delivering an exceptional customer experience.
combo	We did the 1 night - 2 day experience.
combo	We were picked up punctually at 9am by our guide Eric on Day 1.
combo	Eric drove us around all the main sites in Kigali - whilst detailing the history of the city.
combo	We also stopped in the Genocide Memorial for a couple of hours, which was absolutely heartbreaking but an experience that should not be missed in this incredible city.
combo	Nothing was too difficult for Eric.
combo	He catered to all our requests and was very attentive, ensuring we were experience the city to its fullest.
combo	He was extremely patient with all our naive questions and was so knowledgeable, recounting personal anecdotes and historical facts that really gave us a deeper understanding of Rwanda and put it into historical context.
combo	We arrived at Five Volcanoes Lodge at around 4:30pm (we also stopped at Dian Fossey institution on the way) and the hotel was so charming.
combo	Comfortable rooms, great customer service and tasty meals.
combo	All included in the GTA itinerary.
combo	The next morning we went on the Gorilla Trek, and I can confidently say it was one of the most powerful, grounding and wholesome experiences of my life.
combo	If you are hesitating about this expedition - STOP!
combo	You must do it.
combo	It is a life changer.
combo	Yes it's expensive, but I guarantee you, it will be some of the best money you have ever spent.
combo	We were brought so close to the Muhoza family, saw the Silverback, a number of women and a tiny baby.
combo	Pre-departure the gorilla guide (it is the National Park guide that takes over at this point to take you to see the gorillas - Eric from GTA was waiting for us upon our return) ran us through how we should behave, when we are in their presence.
combo	We were encouraged to get porters to carry our bags up, we didn't need it, but Eric told us that a lot of these porters are ex hunters (not of gorillas but antelopes etc for food) and it really involves the whole community into the conservation of the National Park and the gorillas.
combo	For this reason, it is definitely worth it.
combo	For a minimum of $10USD we had a porter carry our backpack up.
combo	We went on a shorter trek, because we had a flight to catch that day, and the whole tour was organized so well.
combo	We hiked for around 1hr, and then we saw the gorillas.
combo	I still cannot stop reliving the experience.
combo	at no point did I feel unsafe, I felt strangely calm in the presence of these humbling primates.
combo	We got to spend an hour with the gorillas (max time per trek) and they came so close to us, even brushing past us.
combo	The baby gorilla was so curious too.
combo	After the trek, we returned to Five Volcanoes and had lunch before Eric took us back to the airport.
combo	A 10/10 experience, one that I will never forget, and one that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
combo	Rwanda is an incredible county - its known as the land of 1000 mountains - its landscape is one of the most beautiful I have seen.
combo	the people are incredibly kind and resilient, and it is unbelievable how much they have achieve since the 1994 genocide - and obviously the gorillas are so awe-inspiring and humbling - and it is wonderful to see the locals and Rwandan Government doing so much to protect them.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa - thank you for organizing such an incredible, life changing trip for us.
combo	We have fallen in love with Rwanda and hope to return soon - and have already recommended you to all our friends.
combo	xxx"
combo	"This company is EXCELLENT we had planned our trip and they were so responsive to all my questions.
combo	I organised this for 8 friends and we wanted to go to Uganda from Rwanda to Bwindi impenitrible forest and also to Queen Elizabeth park.
combo	They took care of everything Nelson was so helpful and he put together a fabulous itinerary for us.
combo	The accommodation everywhere was beyond what we expected and we couldn't have been better looked after.
combo	Great staff, great food and AMAZING views.
combo	But the best bit of using this company was Douglas our AMAZING guide he was just fantastic.
combo	We had a problem with Kenyan airlines on the way to Rwanda and Nelson made it possible to catch up on our lost day and Douglas drove us through the night and went out of his way to make our trip fantastic.
combo	We saw so many animals, Leopard, Elephants, Gazelles, Hippos, Wildebeest, Warthog, Lizards...and of course the highlight the gorillas.
combo	The trek was quite hard in Bwindi but we were rewarded by a family of 10 gorillas sitting with us and they were very active and interactive especially one of the silver backs!
combo	what an experience it was totally amazing and exceeded my expectations.
combo	How blessed are we to spend an hour in the company of these great creatures.
combo	I 100% recommend this company and would definately book another trip with them.
combo	Thanks again Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Amanda, Lili, Isla, Ralph, Lisa, Dan, Connor and Lisa - you made this trip so special for us :)))))"
combo	"We did two amazing treks to see two different families.
combo	Both experiences were different and both just as amazing as each other.
combo	We saw the Amahoro family one day and the Agashya family the next.
combo	The Agashya family was more active on our day and some of the gorillas brushed right past you, Silverback, Blackback and babies too.
combo	We had Eugene as a guide both days, luckily, as he was excellent, very friendly, funny and totally relaxed.
combo	Our trackers and porters were great too.
combo	Hiring a porter gives them an income and were much needed with a helping hand on both days as part of the trek was a little challenging at times.
combo	On both treks the tracker and guide had to cut a way through nettles, ferns and brambles for us to get to see the gorillas.
combo	We were almost doing a gorilla walk ourselves to climb up to see them.
combo	This was such an adventure and a real buzz."
combo	the most incredible thing you can do in your life!
combo	The gorillas are simply gentle giants !
combo	amazing experience!
combo	just go!
combo	"We have just completed our 3 day experience in Rwanda, I would like to thank Nelson for arranging the trip, he was very professional and always responded to my emails ( lots of them) The trip is expensive but it certainly lived up to my dreams.
combo	We would highly recommend our tour guide Gavis, he has been a fantastic guide who is very friendly, his English is excellent and he has lots of knowledge of Rwanda and was able to answer all of our questions.
combo	We feel that he went over and above his role and went out of his way to ensure that all of our wishes were met.
combo	The gorilla trek was amazing we were really lucky to see the Titus family who have a 5 month baby gorilla, we were so close it was unbelievable!
combo	2-3 foot) Highly recommend booking with this company , it lived up to all of my expectations and more"
combo	"Avid adventure travelers, my husband & I wanted to plan a special trip to commemorate our 25th anniversary.
combo	After considering several possibilities, we settled on primate-centric adventure in Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	After a little research we chose Gorilla Trek Africa as our outfitter.
combo	Suffice it to say, they did not disappoint!
combo	We knew we wanted to see gorillas in both Rwanda & Uganda.
combo	Nelson put together a week-long foray which included Gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda, Golden monkeys, Queen Elizabeth National Park, & chimpanzees in Kibale National Forest—not to mention other add-ons like the Genocide Museum, Nyamata church, community visit in Bwindi.
combo	We opted for the ""moderate"" range in accommodations—which included DaVnci Gorilla Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Enganzi Lodge & Primates Lodge, and while I will review them separately, let me say that we were quite happy with all of the lodging arranged by GTA.
combo	A few words about Nelson—he delivered the finest level of customer service the entire 10 month period in which we were planning the trip.
combo	He answered countless questions and usually within a 12-hour period.
combo	Initially I contacted him last summer, and after receiving all of the financials we were not quite ready to pull the trigger on the trip.
combo	I asked him candidly that if I waited until December to send my deposit, would Gorilla permits likely still be available for June?
combo	He answered honestly that I could probably wait until January and still be able to secure the the permits I wanted.
combo	No pressure to commit--just a candid response to my situation.
combo	So we chipped away at saving for the trip and then in January sent in our deposit.
combo	All good.
combo	I wondered if the amazing level of customer service would wane after they had our deposit.
combo	Not so—Nelson remained a source of information and help right until we boarded the plane.
combo	Perhaps the most important aspect of this fantastic adventure was our guide, Bernard.
combo	It is hard to imagine how our trip would have surpassed our expectations without him.
combo	If you comb through all of the Trip Advisor reviews, you will see that it is to GTA's credit that everyone loves their guide and touts him as the ""best"".
combo	This really does speak to the caliber of individuals that make up GTA.
combo	We are no exception in our opinion—Bernard proved the best guide possible!
combo	First of all, he inspired confidence from the get-go.
combo	Bernard is knowledgeable on a wide range of topics, intelligent, witty, a great conversationalist, and a skilled driver (no small feat in Uganda!
combo	By the end of the week, he felt like family.
combo	He provided a level of comfort, confidence, and security that allowed us to fully appreciate all of the dichotomies that make up this part of the world.
combo	Our experience would not have been as rich without Bernard.
combo	If we our fortunate enough to return, I would request him again in a heartbeat.
combo	On to the individual particulars of our trip.
combo	Gorillas—I keep re-living the experience through our wonderful photos.
combo	Being in their presence is exhilarating, moving, and humbling.
combo	If you are a wild-life lover, I cannot recommend strongly enough.
combo	In terms of logistics—in both Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest In Uganda, your guide will inform the ranger whether you wish for an easy, medium, or hard hike into the gorillas, and they assign you to a gorilla family based upon that.
combo	We were in ""medium"" groups for both and that proved perfect for us.
combo	Both times there were a total of 6 people in our group.
combo	In Rwanda, our hike had the potential to be in the ""difficult"" range, but the gorillas had come down a bit & so were closer than anticipated.
combo	I ended up being glad for this, as I was feeling the altitude a bit on the hike up to the gorillas, which ended up being about 2 hours long.
combo	After a magical hour with the gorillas, the descent went much more quickly.
combo	In Bwindi, its a reversed climb--descent first.
combo	I really recommend hiring a porter ($10 in Rwanda/$15 in Uganda --+ tips).
combo	As mentioned in many previous reviews, hiring a porter helps the local community, which in turn helps the gorillas.
combo	While neither my husband not I needed our porters for hiking ""help"", I was more than happy to have my porter wear my daypack --especially on the ascents.
combo	Gorillas in Rwanda vs Uganda?
combo	I feel blessed to have experienced both.
combo	We booked our trip before the drastic price increase in Rwanda.
combo	Our photographs are ""better"" from Rwanda as the gorillas were more in the open, but if I absolutely had to choose between the two experiences, I think I would choose Bwindi—I loved the environment--being in the tangle of vines so close to the gorillas.
combo	It felt even more close-up & intimate.
combo	That was my experience at any rate.
combo	Guides & porters were equally fantastic at both.
combo	Volcanoes in Rwanda has the added bonus of a traditional dance/music presentation... Golden Monkeys—fun !
combo	I was glad we did this.
combo	Expect your hiking group to be quite a bit larger than the gorillas, but the monkeys are everywhere, so you can spread out a bit.
combo	The hike to the monkeys is quite easy--almost totally flat, so can accommodate all fitness levels.
combo	The only downside is that we ended up with some ""are we there yet?...how much further? ""
combo	types—which we did not experience on the gorilla hikes as they group you according to your skills/appetite for adventure.
combo	Someone in our group was wearing a fitbit and clocked the round-trip monkey hike at just under 5 miles.
combo	Chimpanzees in Kibale—a definite must !
combo	I was expecting to adore the gorilla experience, but this one proved almost just as exciting and moving!
combo	We were lucky enough to see many, many chimpanzees--not always the case, I guess.
combo	They took us on a quite a tromp through the forest.
combo	It was an exhilarating experience and a fun surprise as I feared it would be anticlimactic after seeing the gorillas.
combo	Not so in the least.
combo	Queen Elizabeth National Park— This was the only day that perhaps did not live up to my expectations.
combo	If I were to do the trip again, I would make changes re: QENP.
combo	PROS—we were lucky (thanks to Bernard) to see the tree-climbing lions.
combo	We also saw elephants, water buffalo, hippos, warthogs, waterbucks, a nile crocodile, & scores of birds.
combo	It was also great to see an ecosystem so different from Bwindi...On the other hand, we drove there from Ruhija in Bwindi & it made for an awfully long day of driving almost exclusively on unpaved roads or roads in terrible condition.
combo	Also, the guide on our river cruise of the Kazinga channel wasn't the strongest--by his own acknowledgement, he was substituting and ""wasn't an expert"".
combo	It was still a worthwhile experience, but I would either plan the travel to it differently or try Murchison Falls instead.
combo	Community Walk in Rujija (Bwindi)-- I am a teacher & told Nelson I wanted to bring school supplies--if he knew of a place along the way on our itinerary to donate them.
combo	He knew of just the orphanage/school in Ruhija .
combo	So as part of our community walk we visited the school to deliver all of the stuff we brought.
combo	So glad we did this.
combo	Even if you don't wish to bring supplies, there is a donation box--I'm sure no amount is too small to do great good.
combo	I highly recommend the visit.
combo	The need is so acute.
combo	The children were so adorable and it was another part of the trip that gave me cause for great reflection.
combo	We also visited a traditional Batwa village which was interesting.
combo	The Kigali Genocide Museum & Nyamata Church—this was the first day of our trip.
combo	Another important experience you won't want to miss—difficult though it is--especially the church.
combo	Prior to going I had read a book on the genocide, but nothing really prepares you for being at the actual site.
combo	We also visited the renowned Hotel Mille des Collines and were treated to a brief tour by a manager.
combo	He did a great job separating fact from fiction re: Hotel Rwanda.
combo	I felt this was an important part of contextualizing our trip as a whole.
combo	I really appreciated that our itinerary with GTA exposed us to the whole of Rwanda & Uganda—not just the ""travel destination"" bits...we witnessed great beauty and also some terrible desolation—all part of a rich tapestry of East Afica.
combo	Things I wish I had known/was glad I did or brought/would do differently: Currency—we changed very little money— a bit in each country.
combo	US dollars were welcome almost everywhere except in small craft collectives.
combo	Bills must be in pristine condition and 2009 or later—but we paid for almost everything in USD with not so much as a hesitant look.
combo	Tipping—its a personal thing I know, but I wouldn't have have been able to enjoy my trip as much if I hadn't been prepared to help in an area of so much need.
combo	I had budgeted for all guide tips & porter tips, but there were so many other occasions along the way that I wished to tip--and felt lucky that i brought in excess of my anticipated costs (museum, church, dancers, gorilla trackers--separate from gorilla guide & porter, school, village--pretty much every activity we did had a tipping opportunity).
combo	I wish I had more bills in lower denominations—the equivalent of $5 or $10 for the little things that came up.
combo	Lodging—I would do two nights at every lodge.
combo	Our last two lodges were one night each-- I would definitely add an extra night--especially at Primates where they also had other activities that were of interest--nocturnal hikes, birding... Murchison Falls—I wish we had done this--so many people we met LOVED this place so much and mentioned it as a highlight.
combo	It was far from most other things were were doing, but I would try to work it in next time.
combo	Rafting in Jinja—an amazing experience (we used Adrift)--we booked this on our own, after the GTA part of our trip, but I would would do it through GTA next time...just to have extra time with our guide.
combo	Bernard.
combo	Heaven in Kigali—We also booked this on our own--this is where our trip started--great lodge, great restaurant.
combo	I wanted to stay there after reading A Thousand Hills to Heaven by the owner, an NGO World Health developer who had done wonderful things for Rwanda--not the least of which is opening this lodge with his wife (actually, Heaven is more her project) So glad I stayed here--great meals, too.
combo	Perfect start to the trip.
combo	Wad glad I brought... ~ headlamps (for reading & dark steps/ walkways at night ~face wipes as most lodges did not have face cloths in the rooms (though did bring a warm one at arrival) ~immodium ad (enough said : ) ~ a good camera If you made it to the end of this review, I imagine you are an adventure loving and intrepid traveler who is strongly considering booking this trip.
combo	Do not hesitate to book this once-in-a-lifetime trip with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	they will deliver a fantastic experience and memories to last a life-time."
combo	"If you love adventure, nature and primates then this is for you.
combo	Trekking to see gorillas in Rwanda has been a long time dream of mine and I was able to experience it two weeks ago.
combo	Extremely well done, professionally designed natural quest.
combo	Four of us, all in mid 60s, planned this months ago.
combo	We had an amazing time.
combo	""Patience"" was our wonderful guide.
combo	We each hired a porter which was necessary.
combo	The men used them to carry camera equipment, jackets and water.
combo	My friend and I needed them for assistance and support.
combo	We had women porters and they were Wonder Women!
combo	Strong, tireless, fearless gals.
combo	We requested an easy trek but it was more of a moderate trek.
combo	We also had permits for the next day but unfortunately were just too tired to go again plus it would have made us rush around making our airline flights.
combo	That was a significant loss of money but we accept it because our trek was so awesome.
combo	Go well prepared.
combo	Know what to expect.
combo	Read all of the suggestions and recommendations.
combo	Read others' blogs.
combo	Be cognizant to tip correctly and generously.
combo	A German couple was with us and they were annoying and rude.
combo	They didn't hire porters but needed them.
combo	Therefore, they used and relied on our guide and his intern inappropriately.
combo	The woman fell several times.
combo	The man gave his cell phone to the guide to take photos.
combo	Then they had the audacity or complete ignorance to tip no one.
combo	Information was clear to us that the park ranger teams who track the gorilla families are up at dawn and do a fantastic job that is arduous work.
combo	You meet them after your encounter and then show your appreciation.
combo	The Germans, even though my friend explained the protocol, brought out a wallet, looked through it, put it away.
combo	Nothing.
combo	Not even a verbal thank you.
combo	You will fall in love with your gorilla family.
combo	What beautiful, amazing, glorious creatures.
combo	I loved all of the animals in the Serengeti, the Galapagos, Antartica.
combo	However, my gorilla encounter reigns supreme."
combo	"I had a wonderful experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Travelling by yourself is always a daunting experience.
combo	My guide Sam Elliot was the most amazing guide.
combo	I couldn't have ask for a better guide, he was so accommodating, knowledgeable and made me feel so comfortable.
combo	The whole process of the tour ran smoothly and was organised to the minute.
combo	Seeing the gorillas and getting so up close to them was breathtaking, such a fantastic once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Great value for money"
combo	"Hiking with gorillas in Rwanda has been a bucket list adventure for me for a long time.
combo	When I finally had the chance to go for it, we made it happen with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	They did not disappoint.
combo	We had two treks with the mountain gorillas and one with the Golden monkeys.
combo	Our treks ranged from one hour each way, to a 12 mile odyssey where we caught up to the gorillas at 11,000 ft!
combo	It all was so worth it and did not disappoint.
combo	The trackers and porters are all former poachers that now earn an honest and decent living on the conservation side.
combo	I found no-one pushy about wanting to carry my pack, and even though I am more than capable to carry my own camera bag, I was more than happy to pay them $10 to carry it for me.
combo	The one concern I have is the expense.
combo	Beginning in June, 2017, the cost of the permit has doubled to $1,500 per person per day.
combo	If you have any interest in seeing wild mountain gorillas in their beautiful habitat, make it happen- it is more than worth it."
combo	"Traveling on my own can be a little unnerving but I have never felt more taken care of.
combo	Gorilla Trek made a very special experience even better than I could have hoped for.
combo	If you can request Gavis as a guide, you should!
combo	He really went out of his ways to make sure I had a great time.
combo	I wanted 2 days of trekking and they were happy to organize the tour around my requests.
combo	Gavis made some suggestions that really helped me get the most out of my trip.
combo	I wouldn't hesitate to book with them."
combo	"We stayed at the Gorilla Mountain Lodge located about 3 hours outside of Kigali.
combo	The accommodations are quite unique where you stay in your own individual cottages.
combo	The facility is actually owned by the town and much of the profits are directed back to Gorilla conservation.
combo	The Gorilla Trek is one of the most unique activities we have ever done.
combo	There are limited numbers of Gorilla permits and they are quite expensive.
combo	Each permit which allows you one hour with the Gorillas will cost you upwards if $1,000 US.
combo	Each person it the party must have a permit.
combo	All proceeds go towards Gorilla conservation.
combo	The Trek involves climbing up the mountain through thick jungle.
combo	You are guaranteed seeing gorillas however you may have to hike for several hours to get to them.
combo	It is truly breathtaking when you arrive at their habitat and sit almost side by side with these amazing creatures.
combo	We saw a family with about 8 gorillas two of which were silverbacks.
combo	This is a once in a lifetime experience!"
combo	"We contacted Gorilla Trek just two weeks before our Gorilla Tour and Nelson from the head office was always very responsive and helpful.
combo	We paid for the tour by making a bank transfer a few days in advance.
combo	We also appreciated that they immediately proposed to us to go to the Ugandan side (Bwindi Impenetrable Park) which is maybe a 4-5 hours trip from Kigali as they just doubled the park fees in Rwanda from $750 to $1500.
combo	We stayed overnight in Bwindi Jungle Lodge which is a very nice accommodation roughly 1.5 hours away from the (south) gate.
combo	Our driver, Chris, was fantastic, always up for a good talk and very responsible.
combo	I can recommend Gorilla Trek to anyone who wants to see the Mountain Gorillas."
combo	"I and my wife Dorothy, booked a gorilla tour with Gorilla Trek Africa managed by Nelson in May 2017.
combo	At first we did not feel safe sending a deposit online to a foreign company we had just identified.
combo	But basing on their past amazing trip advisor reviews and the USA representative Bill Williams' effort, our dream to track mountain gorillas became a reality.
combo	Our trip was organized so well - very comfortable clean car; very knowledgeable and kind tour guide called Brian; and a very fabulous lodge, the Gorilla Solution Lodge.
combo	Any one who would wish to track gorillas, Gorilla Trek Africa is the way to go!"
combo	"Just returned from Gorilla trek in Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	It was an amazing experience and very well organized with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our guide, Kenneth, was extremely knowledgeable and gave us information on what to expect and everything we wanted to know about Gorillas!
combo	If the opportunity arises, would definitely go back again using Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Well worth the cost!"
combo	"My sister and I did the 2-day trek to see the gorillas at Volcanoes National Park.
combo	We booked completely through email and Nelson/William handled everything (permit, accommodations) it was seamless.
combo	We were picked up in Kigali by our guide, Innocent, who told us lots of interesting information about the country and regions we drove through on our way to Volcanoes.
combo	We stopped for lunch during the drive and he was accommodating if we wanted to make any other stops along the way.
combo	Innocent was very detailed about the schedule for trek day so there was no confusion and made sure we were in a group for our desired hike length (short, medium or long - we opted for medium).
combo	After the hike we went back to our lodge to freshen up, have lunch and headed back to Kigali.
combo	They give three levels of accommodation options at Volcanoes depending on your budget.
combo	We chose mid-range Da Vinci Lodge and it was excellent, also highly recommend.
combo	Our only regret is not doing a longer trip!"
combo	Thank you Nelson and Gavis for a perfect trek.
combo	Everything was easy and enjoyable thanks to you.
combo	So glad I picked your company.
combo	"If you are looking for a company to arrange a trip to Rwanda and Uganda, then your quest is over, as I can recommend the perfect tour operator: Nelson at Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nelson put together and arranged for a 13 day customized trip for my group of four to Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	I have traveled all over the world and honestly can say that Nelson is best tour operator that I have ever encountered.
combo	Reasons: 1) Honesty/Professionalism/Integrity.
combo	Nelson’s character displays each of these attributes.
combo	He is 100% trustworthy.
combo	We wired our entire payment to Gorilla Trek Africa’s bank account.
combo	Nelson immediately confirmed receipt.
combo	There absolutely were no issues.
combo	2) Price.
combo	Nelson’s pricing was competitive and provided excellent value for the money spent.
combo	Nelson provided us with a detailed accounting of the cost of the trip.
combo	The price never changed; there were no hidden or surprise fees.
combo	3) Guide.
combo	A guide can make or break a trip.
combo	Sam Elliott was both our driver and guide for the entire 13 days.
combo	Sam was phenomenal and ranks as the best guide that we ever have had in all of our worldly travels, and we have had some pretty good guides.
combo	Sam was masterful in executing our daily itinerary.
combo	He made sure that we saw and did everything that we wanted to.
combo	We never felt rushed and were given ample time to enjoy every activity, including our meals.
combo	Sam has a keen knowledge of Rwandan and Ugandan history, as well as the flora, fauna, and wildlife.
combo	He was a walking and talking encyclopedia!
combo	Sam was professional, polite, easy to talk to, fun, and a delight to be with!
combo	Sam’s driving skills are superb!
combo	We don’t know how he managed driving so well on those unpaved Ugandan roads, but he did!
combo	Sam always was happy and in a good mood, even after driving a 10 hour day!
combo	We felt perfectly safe with Sam the entire time.
combo	Sam always managed to take care of little things that made a huge difference.
combo	For example, the day that we drove to Murchison Falls was a very long day.
combo	It took 10 hours on dusty unpaved roads to get to Murchison Falls.
combo	By the time we got there, the car was filthy inside and out due to the dust.
combo	We had a 6:00 a.m. game drive the following morning.
combo	When Sam picked us up for our 6:00 a.m. game drive, the vehicle was spotlessly clean inside and out.
combo	Sam had washed the car!
combo	I don’t know how he managed to get that done after that long drive, but he did.
combo	Another example was Sam’s willingness on road trips to take us to facilities that had nice clean bathrooms with toilet seats.
combo	Our group consisted of three women and one man, so you can imagine that we three women were very grateful.
combo	Our entire trip was spent with moments like that, where Sam took care of all the little things that made a huge difference in our comfort level.
combo	What really made Sam standout from all of our past guides was: At our last dinner together just before going to the airport, Sam gave us a heartfelt speech wherein he thanked us for coming and apologized if he did anything wrong.
combo	We assured Sam that he did everything 100% right and that the trip was perfect.
combo	We all had tears in our eyes as Sam expressed his gratitude to us for being Gorilla Trek Africa clients.
combo	We all felt like we had bonded with Sam and hated saying goodbye to our new dear friend.
combo	4) Transportation.
combo	Our safari vehicle was large and extremely comfortable.
combo	It had a refrigerator which Sam kept continuously stocked with water, soft drinks, and juice.
combo	The top popped up for wildlife viewing.
combo	5) Hotels.
combo	Our hotels were fabulous!
combo	We stayed in luxury class accommodations.
combo	At each lodge, the grounds were beautiful, the food was five star quality, and the service was outstanding!
combo	We stayed at: Hotel Des Milles Collines, Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Five Volcanoes Hotel, Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, Mweya Safari Lodge, Mihingo Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, and Paraa Lodge.
combo	I will review each lodge separately under its respective Trip Advisor area.
combo	6) Activities.
combo	Every place we visited truly was magnificent!
combo	We visited: Akagera National Park, Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Golden Monkey trekking, Lake Bunyoni boat ride, Queen Elizabeth National Park, boat cruise on Kazinga Channel, Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, Murchison Falls, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
combo	We saw elephants, giraffes, lions, impalas, bush bucks, warthogs, baboons, chimpanzees, gorillas, antelopes, zebras, and more.
combo	I will review each placed visited separately under its respective Trip Advisor area.
combo	7) Philanthropy.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa is actively involved in arranging for clothing donations to local orphanages.
combo	At our request, Nelson arranged for us to visit two orphanages where we donated clothing brought from home.
combo	Both visits provided a humbling and moving experience; definitely a trip highlight!
combo	In closing, this trip was life changing and mesmerizing in the plethora of wildlife, flora and fauna seen.
combo	Both Rwanda and Uganda were beautiful in terms of nature/wildlife, and the people themselves.
combo	This truly was the trip of a lifetime.
combo	We all give Nelson the highest recommendation!!"
combo	"We made all our arrangements on line.
combo	The deposit for the trip has to be paid in advance to a Ugandan bank with the balance being due on arrival although we paid in advance to avoid carrying too much cash.
combo	We applied for East African Tourist visas in advance which cover Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya.
combo	You receive an approval document within three days which you hand in on arrival and get the visa entered in your passport.
combo	We flew in to Kigali arriving quite early and we were met by our guide Richard who stayed with us for our 5 day trip.
combo	It would have been better if we had flown in to Uganda as we spent the day driving to Katsura Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	Both the hotels we stayed at on the tour were excellent and the subject of separate reviews.
combo	Although the journey was interesting I feel we would have had an extra day if we had flown in to Uganda.
combo	Immigration from Rwanda to Uganda was very slow taking over an hour queuing in very the very hot sun.
combo	Worth making sure you've got a had to hand.
combo	On day two we had a short drive to track chimpanzees.
combo	The tracking want too difficult.
combo	The chimps were high in the forest canopy but we were able to get photographs with ease.
combo	Our guide for the tracking was very knowledgable about the flora and fauna.
combo	On day three we tracked tree climbing llanos and made our way back to Rwanda where we stayed at the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge in the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	On day four we did tracked the gorillas.
combo	Eighty people per day are granted permits for gorilla tracking during are broken down in to groups of eight depending on fitness, each with their own guide and you track one of ten gorilla families.
combo	The tracking can be quite hard depending on how quickly you find the gorillas.
combo	My group was expected to take half an hour to find them but it took around two hours.
combo	Once you find them you are allowed to stay for one hour only before you leave to avoid the gorillas having two much human company.
combo	We were 3500 metres above sea level and a lot of people found the altitude made the tracking hard.
combo	Having found the Amahoro family we made ourselves comfortable seated in the grass and started our hour.
combo	The family numbered around twenty and we saw 16 of them The gorillas appeared almost oblivious to us, brushing past us as they went about their business without giving us a second glance.
combo	The hour we were permitted passed very quickly and we then made our way out of the jungle.
combo	On day five we drove back to Kigali and visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
combo	Well worth a visit although a very sobering experience and again the subject of a separate review.
combo	We then flew down to Mombasa for som R&R on the beach.
combo	All in all an amazing experience with the gorillas being the high point ."
combo	"Just finished a 3 day trip with Bob to Bwindi and Volcanos NP.
combo	Bob was fantastic and a pleasure to chat with.
combo	Nelson from the Kampala office was also excellent - very responsive.
combo	The gorilla tracking in Bwindi was absolutely amazing and totally worth the long hike.
combo	The golden monkey at Volcanoes NP was good but cannot be compared to the gorillas for sure.
combo	Overall, would definitely recommend."
combo	"Just back from 5 amazing days in Rwanda and Uganda, with David of Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	He is exceptional, and I can't recommend Gorilla Trek highly enough-- they are a highly skilled, resourceful, and reliable team with deep knowledge of both Uganda and Rwanda, and in my experience offer a significantly .
combo	As soon as I told"
combo	"It was an amazing adventure to visit Rwanda and see the Gorillas in their natural habitat.
combo	Everything was so well organised by Nelson, payment was easy and David my guide was a wealth of information.
combo	Stayed at DaVinci Lodge, the staff there were so helpful and friendly.
combo	Make sure you hire a porter they are invaluable especially if you will be hiking a distance, it also gives to the local community.
combo	Gloves and gaiters were necessary on our trek, it can be very slippery and you do need to grab on to various plants at times to get through the bamboo, including the nettles.
combo	It was one of the most memorable trips I have been on and I can give Gorilla Trek the very highest recommendation."
combo	"I can't say enough good things about this company and the trek.
combo	I'll try and be as specific as possible.
combo	The booking process was made through the website with Nelson.
combo	He was incredibly responsive, custom made our tour specifically for what I requested day by day.
combo	Payment was incredibly easy, he sent document for travel packing list and for East African visa as well.
combo	Could not have been more straight forward and I can't say enough good things about Nelson and how great he was in booking.
combo	We decided to go during the beginning of May, which is the last month of the rainy season.
combo	It certainly rained at times, but this was never an issue in terms of hindering us and it is really beautiful to see these landscapes during rains.
combo	The gorilla treks and lodges were much less crowded and I really am so happy we decided to go in May rather than June/July.
combo	I have heard April gets extremely rainy however.
combo	When we landed in Kigali we stayed at the hotel Serena, a wonderful hotel and would definitely recommend it to everyone.
combo	Our guide, Kenneth met us the following day at 8am and we set off for Kabale in Uganda to start the trek.
combo	I really want to emphasize how incredible Kenneth was from start to finish.
combo	He was a gorilla guide and tracker for 12 years in Bwindi impenetrable Forrest, Queens Elizabeth National Park ranger for several years, and his knowledge of the area and of gorillas was incredible.
combo	He essentially gave us our own course on Ugandan and Rwandan natural history, wildlife in the area and is truly an expert in gorilla tracking.
combo	I learned so much from him and feel so lucky to have had the luck to have him as our guide.
combo	He knows all the gorilla guides at Bwindi and some in Volcanoes NP that he set us up to follow specific groups on specific treks.
combo	He was known and well liked by all of the staff he ran into and it felt like royalty going to Bwindi and the Queen Elizabeth National Park with him.
combo	KENNETH AS YOUR GUIDE IF POSSIBLE.
combo	Truly an amazing experience with him.
combo	We ended up doing a chimp trek, wildlife drive in Queen Elizabeth national park, and 2 gorilla treks (1 in Bwindi, 1 in Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The chimp trek was very interesting, at one point we were sprinting through the Forrest in search of a chimp that had come down from the trees.
combo	Was a wonderful experience and would highly recommend.
combo	The game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP was similar to those I've been on in Kruger and others.
combo	Very safari feeling, the top to our land cruiser was open, we saw lions, elephants etc.
combo	Beautiful park and definitely worth it.
combo	The 2 gorilla treks we're both amazing.
combo	Words can't describe the experience and if you've come this far in researching it please do it.
combo	Bwindi is very thick jungle terrain with lots of ups and downs.
combo	The gloves and gaiters were a must here.
combo	We were in a group of 5 total ppl plus 4 porters and 3 guides.
combo	It only took us 20 mins until we found the gorilla group and the hour with them was amazing.
combo	The Volcanoes NP trek was much different.
combo	Had about a 1.5 hour hike through bamboo Forrest, some areas of very thick mud ( again gaiters a must here as well) and then found an incredible gorilla group in a very open area.
combo	Very different group, ambit just as amazing and unique experience.
combo	Really would recommend 2 treks if possible.
combo	Overall, can't say enough good things about this company and specifically Kenneth as a guide.
combo	You won't regret going with this tour group.
combo	The term once in a life time is certainly overused, however going to Uganda/Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas is truly this.
combo	The people, the landscapes, the history, the wildlife and the overall experience left me awestruck over and again.
combo	If you have the opportunity to go, do it!"
combo	"REQUEST GAVIS as your GUIDE!
combo	Gavis was my tour guide and was professional, courteous, and engaging in conversation during the drive in and return to Kigali.
combo	He arrived 10 minutes early to pick me up in a very comfortable vehicle, and even secured having the guide for the party of 8 join us on the ride to the trail head.
combo	This is a once in a lifetime, MUST DO experience with a top notch guide and a company that delivered on their promise."
combo	"My friend and I did the two-day tour; we don't have any regrets.
combo	Nelson booked our travel itinerary and Bob was our 2-day tour guide.
combo	Everyone I interacted with at Gorilla Trek Africa (GTA) was extremely professional, kind, and helpful.
combo	Two tips: + I recommend the 2-day tour if you want to leisurely arrive into Rwanda and have GTA pick you up from the airport.
combo	You go on a city tour and visit the genocide museum and the memorial for the Ten Belgian Blue Helmets.
combo	Then you go off for lunch (in Kigali or on the way to your lodging near Volcano National Park) and can rest for the day.
combo	All meals are covered during the 2-day tour.
combo	I stayed at Gorilla Solutions Lodge.
combo	The hotel staff were very kind and even cleaned our shoes after our trek (amazing work!).
combo	+ Be prepared to hike 6+ hours.
combo	Grab a porter if you are not accustomed to medium-level difficulty hikes--they will help you up on steep inclines or support you walking through challenging areas.
combo	We trekked in the mud, got hit by stinging nettles, and had occasional rain fall on us.
combo	The trip is expensive, but worth every penny.
combo	The permit prices will increase soon, so you should go now before it gets more pricy!
combo	You get very close to the gorillas; and it is a very magical experience.
combo	I felt very safe and comfortable with the GTA team and highly recommend others who are considering the trip, to email the GTA team at info@rwandagorilla.com.
combo	I want to go again with my husband and will definitely use this same company again.
combo	Nelson and Bob, I appreciate all your support!
combo	We LOVED our experience, thanks to you both!"
combo	Less than a week before I was to arrive in Rwanda I contacted Gorilla Trek Africa to see if I could schedule a one day gorilla trek from Kigali.
combo	The process to arrange and pay for the trip was quite easy.
combo	Nelson answered all my questions - with no pressure at all to book - and everything was arranged after just a couple of emails.
combo	On the morning of the trek (less than 8 hours after arriving in Rwanda) Gavis picked me up at my hotel at 4:30am for the drive up.
combo	Gavis was fantastic.
combo	He's extremely friendly and interesting to chat with.
combo	Once the trek was over Gavis and I stopped for some good food and we were back in Kigali by 4pm.
combo	Considering I had less than a day for the gorilla trek I'm really pleased I booked through Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	The trek itself is an amazing experience (not to be missed!
combo	and Gavis and GTA were great.
combo	"We did a 3 day gorilla tour in early February, departing from Kigali.
combo	If you are considering a gorilla trek, just DO IT!
combo	It truly is an amazing experience - everyone we spoke to afterwards was just in awe of what we had seen and on an absolute high.
combo	Our guide Asaph was fantastic - very patient, friendly, knowledgable, and went out of his way to get us onto the gorilla group we wanted.
combo	Overall, the 3 day trip is overpriced for what you get.
combo	Days 1 and 2 are really just transfers to and from Volcanoes National Park, with a detour to the Genocide Museum (which you can easily do on your own) and a Golden Monkey Trek if you choose to do it (we didn't as it could never compare with the gorillas).
combo	We were also a little miffed about having to pay heavily marked up prices for drinks consumed at Da Vinci Lodge which we assumed were included in the meal package, for example tea and coffee that they offered as part of their ""wake up service"" and with breakfast, and small bottles of water left in the room on arrival.
combo	Be sure to arrange payment well in advance, taking into consideration the bank transfer fees you will incur.
combo	A lot of banks will not transfer to an account that has any reference to Rwanda."
combo	"I did a 2-days tour with Gorilla Trek Africa in Rwanda in late April.
combo	It is a well organised tour, there is not a big difference from a 1 day tour in terms of price, which makes it worth it.
combo	I pre-paid 50% of the price in advance via bank tranfer and the other half in cash upon arrival to Kigali.
combo	Getting a list of required trekking gear in advance was very helpful.
combo	All things were really needed, rain jacket, gloves, good trekking shoes...It is a physically demanding exercise and weather can be unpredictable so pay attention to this list shared by the company by email.
combo	I was met by Asaph in Kigali airport, he gave me a great introduction to Kigali and its history and showed some famous sites around the city, including famous Hotel Rwanda.
combo	He is a really good and knowledgeable guide and also very flexible.
combo	He adjusted the programme according to my wishes, helped to find things I needed to buy, took me to local crafts markets, assisted with water supplies and even some trekking gear and was a good company for 2 days.
combo	Thank you so much!
combo	In the afternoon we drove about 2,5h to Gorilla Solutions Lodge nearby Volcano National Park, where I spent the night.
combo	It is a great place with exceptionally good service and tasty food.
combo	It can get cold at nights so carry warm clothes!
combo	On second day the safari started early in the morning with introduction and security briefing.
combo	We were trekking the gorillas in a group of 8 people with a local guide.
combo	It was a truly exciting adventure, not a very easy one as we had to hike in heavy rain, all the way up to the mountain slopes to see gorillas.
combo	But it was definitely worth it, we saw a big family, they turned out to be very relaxed, smart and absolutely not aggressive animals.
combo	It was a fantastic experience!
combo	After spending an hour with gorillas we hiked back, got our certificates and returned to the hotel for a late lunch.
combo	Afterwards we drove back to Kigali and arrived there at around 7pm.
combo	I warmly recommend this tour with Gorilla Trek Africa to other adventure-seekers!
combo	//Viktoria"
combo	"Ok, so let me tell you my story from start to finish.
combo	Trekking with the mountain gorilla is something I always wanted to do.
combo	I am a single female traveller, and wanted to ensure everything was safe and well organised.
combo	After reading many reviews, I decided to go with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I made contact through the website, and Nelson got back to me promptly within 24 hrs.
combo	We had many communications through email, and he answered all my questions.
combo	The next step was booking and paying.
combo	Nelson sent through the pay details ( either credit card or international bank transfer).
combo	It can seem a bit scary at first sending through a big payment of USD, but rest assured, it is no problems.
combo	It took 4 days from me putting it through from my bank in Australia to the bank in Uganda.
combo	I confirmed via email with Nelson again that my payment had been received.
combo	Next step, arrival.
combo	I arrived early morning in Kigali (Rwandas international airport) and my guide Krish was there to meet me with a sign just outside of arrivals.
combo	He had a very clean 4 wheel drive vehicle, and was very helpful.
combo	I hadn't been able to change some of my money into Rwanda francs, so Krish drove me to a money exchange on our way, so I could do that.
combo	The journey is 3-4 hrs but it is a beautiful scenic drive.
combo	I was mesmerised by the beauty of this country..and so clean.
combo	They do take great pride in keeping their country clean.
combo	It is a very windy hilly drive, but beautiful.
combo	Krish was happy to stop along the way so I could take some photos.
combo	On arrival of my accomodation, I stayed at the Davinci Lodge.
combo	It was really lovely, and a beautiful lady called Tracey was there to greet me.
combo	She was so warm and welcoming.
combo	She also speaks fluent English, so communication was easy.
combo	The lodge itself is really lovely and I thoroughly recommend it.
combo	Nice big room, and the shower was nice and hot with good pressure.
combo	I did a 4 day trip in total (the double gorilla trek).
combo	So day 2, my first gorilla trek.
combo	We had breakfast at the lodge at 6am, and left at 0630 for the headquarters of gorilla trekking.
combo	Krish (my tour guide and driver)also stayed at the lodge, so your own personal guide is always at hand, and there to drive you about.
combo	When you arrive at the headquarters, you have about half an hr to grab a free cup of tea, and mingle with others.
combo	The cultural dancers will come and perform for you whilst your gorilla trekking groups are getting sorted.
combo	It is always nice to tip them for their efforts.
combo	There is also free wifi there, so if you need to check in with loved ones, that is handy also.
combo	Once your groups have been arranged, you will be taken for a briefing, then you head off for your trek.
combo	As I did two days of trekking, my first one was very challenging, but I loved it, although it was long.
combo	Seeing the gorillas is just so incredible, I wouldn't change a thing.
combo	On my second day, I did an easier trek, a completely different experience, but equally as rewarding.
combo	Can I just mention, on arrival back to the Davinci Lodge after trekking, they take your muddy shoes from you and give your feet a rub.
combo	They also take your shoes away, clean them up and return them to you.
combo	This was really great, and again worth a small tip.
combo	On the 3rd day I did a cultural tour in the afternoon.
combo	This is where another guide will meet you and you walk into the community and learn various different things.
combo	I have done a fair bit of travel before, so I knew what to expect, but if you haven't, it can be a bit of an eye opener.
combo	My guide for this Elias, was full of knowledge.
combo	He explains how the community was formed, showed me a local meeting area for afternoon wind down for the local people, and explained how the local beer was made.
combo	He also showed me into a couple of local people's homes and explained a lot of the plants and trees, and their properties and history.
combo	Please if you do this cultural tour, have some tipping money ($5000 francs) with you.
combo	These people are opening their homes to you so you can learn.
combo	I got a lot out of this tour, although it is optional.
combo	On the final day, I did the golden monkeys, another experience again.
combo	Once that was finished we went back to the accomodation and I had lunch and a shower, then it was time to head off again back to Kigali airport.
combo	The drive again equally as stunning as the first time.
combo	As I had a late flight, my guide Krish offered to take me to the local markets for a look around.
combo	This was very kind of him, as he didn't have to.
combo	These markets are huge and very busy.
combo	Then I was dropped back to the airport for my return flight.
combo	Krish ensured I was safe at the airport, before leaving.
combo	A big Thank You to Gorilla Trek Africa for helping me fulfil one of my dreams.
combo	From the start, emailing with Nelson, the Tour with Krish, and my cultural guide Elias, I had a wonderful time.
combo	I definitely plan to return in the future (& hopefully bring others with me to share this experience)!!
combo	All I can say is ""Just do it""!!
combo	You will have no regrets."
combo	"There was literally no part of today that I did not thoroughly enjoy: the ride from Kigali with the excellent driver Gavis, the friendly and knowledgeable Emanuel, and of course the one hour we spent with the gorillas.
combo	Just the best!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa is a Kampala Uganda based company that organizes trips throughout Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	My trip was a 5-day tour through all of Western Uganda and included visiting the gorillas in Rwanda.
combo	Upon pickup, my guide, Robert told me that ""I had a balance"" meaning that I had not paid in full for the trip.
combo	My trip was organized 7 months prior and had been paid in full two weeks prior to my arrival in Kigali.
combo	Due to this miscommunication between the office and Robert he did not have any money for the trip, which forced us to go back to the Kigali office to get money.
combo	This caused a 1.5 hour delay which caused us to reach the border right when all of the Kigali buses got there.
combo	It took us 3 hours to cross the border.
combo	Robert was not helpful in explaining the procedure and I stood in the hot sun (with no water) in order to do this.
combo	Water was supposed to be included in the $2800 I paid for the trip.
combo	When we arrived at our lunch spot the café was full, food was taking 25 minutes to be prepared, Robert wanted us to get lunch to go (takeaway and eat it in the car) and I was ready to keep moving.
combo	Instead I agreed to eat at a local place which was fine but not what I paid for.
combo	I would suggest GTA has other lunch options available in case this happens to others.
combo	We arrived in Fort Portal late evening and reached Chimpanzee Guest House.
combo	The guesthouse was comfortable and seeing the chimps was a good experience.
combo	The trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park the following day was long and fairly warm.
combo	After we had been driving around the park for about an hour I told Robert that I was ready to head to the lodge.
combo	We had been on the road for 5 hours, and hadn’t eaten in 6 or so, he told me “why do you give up so easily, let’s keep going for another 30 minutes.” On the third day we drove from Queen Elizabeth National Park through Ishasha to see the lions, Bwindi National Forest and into Rwanda.
combo	The road was dusty and dry and the AC in the vehicle was not working.
combo	Robert claimed that it had worked two days prior and he had no idea why it was not working.
combo	We stopped for lunch at the Bwindi gate (entrance to see the gorillas in Uganda) and Robert proceeded to tell me that there are more gorillas in Bwindi and it is much better to see them there.
combo	I was shocked.
combo	Here I am on the way to Rwanda the day before my gorilla trip and this guy is basically telling me I am missing out by not seeing them in Uganda.
combo	After crossing the border in Rwanda I realized that I was missing $100 dollar bill from my bag.
combo	No idea where the money went but am 100% sure it was there the night before.
combo	I had left my bag in the vehicle while using the restroom twice that day.
combo	When I told Robert what happened, he asked if they had taken other money as well and explained to me that it makes no sense to only take some of the money and not all of it.
combo	In my experience, people take a little bit because they think you won’t notice.
combo	This was my tipping point and I asked Robert to call Nelson.
combo	Nelson was surprised to hear all of the issues that we had and told me that GTA would replace the money.
combo	Upon arrival in Kinigi, there was a new guide (Eric), new vehicle and the money was replaced.
combo	The Da Vinci Lodge in Kinigi was excellent and the staff was great.
combo	My experience with the gorillas and golden monkeys was absolutely breathtaking and wonderful.
combo	My replacement guide Eric was amazing and what I expected in a guide from the very beginning.
combo	On my last day in Kinigi I was speaking with a guide and a fellow traveler.
combo	It turns out that I was eligible for an East African resident permit to see the gorillas in Rwanda.
combo	The East African resident permit is $450 where GTA paid $750 for my permit.
combo	While I do not blame GTA for overlooking this, I am disappointed that their US representative did not communicate this to the Kampala office when we began communicating back in September of last year.
combo	Overall, the gorilla experience was amazing.
combo	However, I would not recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to my fellow travelers."
combo	"After recommendations from friends, we decided to trek with the Gorillas for the long Easter Holiday.
combo	I contacted Nelson three weeks prior to our departure, told him my time parameters and he planned a fabulous 4 day excursion for my husband and me.
combo	He communication was prompt and he organized a trip that included a tour of Kigali and the Genocide museum, two gorilla treks and a final hike with the Golden Monkeys.
combo	Gavis, a gentle, informative and attentive guide picked us up at the hotel in the morning.
combo	The market is full of fabrics and he demonstrated patience as I chose two different fabrics and had them made into skirts while we explored other parts of the market.
combo	He helped negotiate prices so it was a fair deal for all.
combo	We had a comfortable drive to Volcanoes National Park and Gavin negotiated two great treks.
combo	It was comfortable spending time with him.
combo	We were disappointed the first night when we realized he didn't get to share dinner with us.
combo	He is great company and he quickly became part of our experience.
combo	However, we did get time with him and learned a lot about the country during our different drives.
combo	He has interesting stories, and was interested in our stories.
combo	The scenery is spectacular, the hiking provides such a sense of the forest, and definitely was a memorable and worthwhile experience.
combo	Thank you Gavis, Thank you Nelson."
combo	"Trekking with gorillas has been at the top of our bucket list for years.
combo	We finally decided to make it happen...and it was one of the best experiences to date.
combo	Our entire trip was flawless and a dream come true!
combo	I would recommend this company and book with them again if we ever find ourselves back in Rwanda.
combo	Beautiful country, animals and people.
combo	I cannot say enough about our time...other than, book your trip now!
combo	😊"
combo	"This trip was organized for me by Nelson.
combo	At first it was just myself, but my son decided to join me.
combo	Nelson organized a five day trip involving the chimps at Kibale in QENP in Uganda and subsequently the gorillas at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
combo	He set us up with Joseph, a guide par excellence.
combo	Joseph Tamale made sure we were both happy.
combo	My son with his camera shots and me with my ""stretch my legs"" stops.
combo	We got to see the great apes up close and at a leisurely pace.
combo	Our visit with the Golden Monkeys was spectacular and much less strenuous.
combo	We saw other game including elephants, waterbuck, topi, kobs, numerous birds, hippo and cape buffalo and even lions.
combo	Unfortunately, the lions were not in the trees that day.
combo	Every thing went according to schedule.
combo	We even could modify the itinerary a bit to include a boat tour in the channel between Lake George and Lake Edward.
combo	This way we got to see both countries, crater lakes, valleys and the Rift valley.
combo	All spectacular views.
combo	I would recommend both the company and Joseph to anyone."
combo	"My wife and I spent a week in Rwanda guided by William at Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	From the moment he met us, we knew we made the right choice.
combo	Despite a very full itinerary, William allowed us variations in our schedule to allow for changing needs and desires.
combo	Our trip included a combination of culture and history, site seeing, and monkey and gorilla trekking.
combo	The trip was a once in a lifetime, life changing experience that was worth every penny."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa had come highly recommended from our friends who traveled with them 3 years ago, and we were definitely not disappointed!
combo	From my first email to enquire about a booking, Nelson was exceptionally responsive to all of our questions and requests right up until literally minutes before our departure to Kigali - we almost missed our flight to Kigali due to a horrible traffic accident at our departure end.
combo	He was ready to help on his end to rearrange our pick up, but fortunately we made it to the airport with minutes to spare.
combo	From the time we were picked up at the airport by William Luchi (he was our guide for the week), we didn't have to worry about a thing.
combo	We did a week-long driving tour starting in Kigali.
combo	After departing Kigali we traveled to Nyungwe Forest (with a couple of stops at Nyanza for the palace visit and a the genocide memorial).
combo	We hiked to see the chimpanzees and also did a separate afternoon trip to see the colobus monkeys.
combo	We were driven to Lake Kivu for an overnight and a boat tour.
combo	The highlight of the trip was definitely to Volcanoes National Park and our stay at Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
combo	Our hike to see the Agasha Group was incredible.
combo	We were awed with our visit, getting to see the dominant silverback (walking within 2 feet of me) and two of the group's babies among others in the group.
combo	Our final day, we headed back to Kigali to visit the Genocide Memorial and Nyamata Church south of Kigali.
combo	William was so full of interesting information about the country, history and culture of Rwanda and was always pointing out things along the way.
combo	Everything from start to finish was handled so professionally and promptly.
combo	I have already recommended GTA to several friends (even while on our trip!
combo	), one of whom has already booked to travel with them two weeks from now.
combo	I highly recommend using GTA for your visit to Rwanda (or a combination of Rwanda/Uganda).
combo	If you get a chance to request a guide, William's awesome."
combo	"It was a great experience made even more memorable by our guide Gavis.
combo	He was friendly, professional and knowledgeable."
combo	"Gavis, our guide, was the best!
combo	Warm personality, knowledgeable, beyond helpful and always at the ready to make our experience one to remember."
combo	"The Gorilla trek was something that I would never have thought to do but once I started to research it the more I became interested.
combo	My friend and I just did the day trek.
combo	A driver picked us up at our hotel in Kigali around 4:30am and then we drove about 2 plus hours to the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The drive was gorgeous once the sun came up.
combo	When we got there they had coffee for us and there was a welcome dance from the local village people.
combo	It was a little unorganized in the beginning, people were starting to get into groups and we had no idea what group we were suppose to be in.
combo	After asking someone they told us what group we were in.
combo	We were doing the medium hike.
combo	We were told when we signed up we would have a choice but then they just told us that was our group.
combo	They gave us walking sticks which was a great help.
combo	I highly recommend getting a porter, he will carry your bag and is a great help getting through all the mud.
combo	The hike was very challenging for me, it was so muddy and the tour guide was going pretty fast.
combo	I felt bad for being slow but I was slipping and sliding the entire hike.
combo	Plus I'm out of shape so that didn't help.
combo	Our tour guide Mr. D was kinda nasty to us for being slow and not keeping up with the group.
combo	I would say that was our biggest complaint.
combo	We would have done the easier hike but never got a chance.
combo	The hike took about 2 hours to see the Monfunzo family.
combo	I was so amazed how gentle the gorillas were and they really didn't seem to care that we were there.
combo	It was amazing watching them.
combo	You're only with them for 1 hour and it goes so fast.
combo	Overall, we had a great time.
combo	I think next time we would go when there's less mud.
combo	The trek is expensive but its a once in a lifetime thing.
combo	I also recommend that you rent covers for the bottom of your pant leg.
combo	They have guys going around and asking, you can also rent boots.
combo	Enjoy and take lots of pictures."
combo	"My son and I did a 4 day trip through Rwanda and Uganda to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Our guide and driver was Sam Elliot.
combo	I have traveled throughout Africa and the world, but this was definitely the trip to remember.
combo	Organization of the trip, tailored specifically to my limited time schedule, accommodations, and our guide's knowledge, experience and attitude were all exceptional.
combo	Sam was able to arrange the tracks that fit perfectly with our physical capacity and time constraints, given that we covered the length of two countries in just 4 days.
combo	We saw unbelievable sights and had animal encounters that still leave us speechless.
combo	We will never forget this trip, all thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"We trekked for two days and it was amazing!
combo	Two very different trekks, more than 5 hours one day and about 3 hours one day.
combo	Everything is so well organised and they take well care of the gorillas, only allowing us a one hour visit.
combo	The guides were all fabulous, spoke excellent english and were very knowledgable!
combo	Make use of porters, as it give the village people a small income.
combo	And the gorillas......wow!!
combo	They are so beautiful, you get really close and they do not seem to mind at all.
combo	Overall an amazing experience, we highly recommend this trip!!!
combo	Yes, it is expensive but so worth it!!"
combo	Our Gorilla Trek was awesome.
combo	Getting close to gorillas and looking in their eyes is a strong emotion.
combo	I fully recommend Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We were at first nervous to send an upfront payment in Ouganda but all was perfect.
combo	Tripadvisor reviews certainly helped us.
combo	Please note that our driver and guide Kenneth was outstanding.
combo	He is: - an excellent driver and problem solver - very polite and educated - a real encyclopedia on gorillas and Rwanda/Ouganda - a very attaching personality.
combo	You could ask for him.
combo	Amazing opportunity ti see these awesome gorillas in Rwanda and Ouganda.
combo	"Really impressed with the service of this company - great communication beforehand with Nelson to get the visit arranged.
combo	Our guide Bob was lovely - excellent driving and very knowledgeable.
combo	The lodge was really relaxing and the gorillas - wow!
combo	An absolutely incredible experience the time we spent with them was so special, an absolute privilege."
combo	"Visiting the gorillas was an amazing experience and Gorilla Trek Africa played a huge role in ensuring the visit was smooth and easy to manage.
combo	I chose based on their TripAdvisor reviews and I'm happy to say it was the right choice.
combo	They don't do budget tours so I assume is a bit more pricey than other companies, but this an experience that you don't want to jeopardise in any way, shape or form.
combo	I booked a two-day tour: which included transportation to and from Kigali, a private car and tour guide, lodging and food and permits.
combo	Before you actually do it, it's hard to realise the amount of preparation the trip takes in terms of getting permits, ensuring accommodation, different bits of transportation, etc.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa took care of all of this and also ensured I got into a group that I could handle due to some physical limitations at the moment.
combo	Robert, who was my tour guide, is an incredibly knowledgeable and extremely nice.
combo	It was a real treat to spend time talking to him.
combo	I would recommend them any time!"
combo	"Here is the paradox right up front: Gorilla Trek Africa offers you the best tour, accommodations and guides for the least amount of money!
combo	After exhaustive research contacting the myriad of companies servicing Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla safaris, Gorilla Trek Africa made the most sense in terms of dollars and cents.
combo	What I mean by that is comparing the exact lodges, the exact tour, the exact gorilla trekking experience,Gorilla Trek Africa offered the best deal.
combo	Okay, money isn't everything.
combo	So say those who have it.
combo	The service was exemplary.
combo	Nelson tirelessly communicated with me in the planning, making suggestions but openly listening to my thoughts and needs.
combo	The result: I've been to Africa four times and this was by far the most inspiring, adventurous, physically challenging trip of them all.
combo	We did gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda and then visited Kibale N.P., Queen Elizabeth N.P.
combo	both Ishasha and Mweya) and Lake Mburo N.P.
combo	The accommodations were beyond Deluxe, yet kept the flavor of being in Uganda and not any 5 star hotel.
combo	Kyaninga Lodge, Mahogany Springs and Mihingo Lodge were all beyond belief.
combo	I saved the best for last.
combo	Patrick, our guide, is a must!
combo	He is immensely knowledgeable, enormously personable, fluent in English ( idioms and all), gets nuances and humor -- which believe me is imperative when spending two weeks with anyone.
combo	Request Patrick immediately upon reserving.
combo	In fact, demand Patrick as a condition of your booking.
combo	He is THAT extraordinary.
combo	I write very few reviews.
combo	Only when I feel compelled or so excited that I must.
combo	This was one company that did everything right, so I wrote a review.
combo	I will remember and reflect on this trip for a very long time.
combo	But my wife and I will think about Patrick and his tireless work on our behalf for even longer."
combo	"We booked for a 3 day trip to volcanoes national park through gorilla trek africa on their website including making payments through the service available on the website.
combo	My wife and I travelled in Ely feb 2017 which is typically low season and weather was sunny but cool in Rwanda, it gets cooler at Musanze town which is the starting point of the trek.
combo	I would highly recommend using Gorilla trek africa as the pick up was prompt and Krish (the tour guide) was very friendly showing us around and explaining the sights along the drive.
combo	We chose the mid range accomodation (da vinci lodge) in Musanze which was a comfortable stay arranged by Gorilla trek Africa also.
combo	Please note that Gorilla trek africa operates out of Uganda but are well versed with day tours in Rwanda"
combo	"What an awesome experience it was to see the gorillas!!
combo	I did the day trip from Kigali and it worked perfectly.
combo	Douglas picked me up promptly at 4:30am and was a fantastic host for the day.
combo	When we arrived, there was tea and coffee available, as well as a traditional performance, while all of the drivers signed us up for one of the family groups.
combo	The trek was more strenuous than I was anticipating; 2.5 hours to reach the gorilla group with a long portion going up very steep and slippery inclines (I should note that other gorilla families were in different locations and so their treks may be different).
combo	In total, I think the trek was 5 hours.
combo	I hired one of the porters and don't regret it for a minute: he carried my bag, waited with me when I needed to stop and catch my breath, and helped me on tricky areas.
combo	It was $15, so I paid $20 to include a tip (each of the 5 porters in our group only get to work 1 day a week, so that others in the village have a chance of employment).
combo	I wore gaiters and they were the best investment I made when we got to the stinging nettles.
combo	The only small disappointment is that the package purchased said there would be a packed lunch provided to eat on the trek, so I was very hungry when we finished.
combo	Luckily I had some snacks and we stopped for lunch about an hour later."
combo	"Me and my partner went to Musanze by rental car from Kigali with no issue.
combo	Stopped two nights to be able to go see the mountain gorillas and also to be able to make the most out of it.
combo	Got to Kinigi and the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters at around 6.45, thinking we'd be amongst the first to arrive but we were surprised to see a lot of people already there.
combo	A bit worried that we wouldn't get to go to the gorilla group we so much hoped to see we were greeted by a ranger (Emmanuel) who welcomed us and directed us where to go.
combo	He also suggested us to rent a driver as our vehicle to the trekking start point would be to bumpy for it and might damage the car.
combo	We didn't count on this expense but like Emmanuel pointed out; it's better to spend $100 on this than even more repairing the car.
combo	And he was right, the road for a Toyota Rav4 (ours was lower than others) would've been straining for it.
combo	We were glad we listened to him in the end.
combo	So make sure that you either are on a tour with a driver or, if you are renting a car on your own, like we did, make sure you spend a bit extra to get a proper 4x4 vehicle.
combo	On site at the Volcanoes National Park HQ we got coffee and a performance by a group with drums and an enthusiastic attitude for musical beat.
combo	A woman of us tourists actually went up and joined them and even got to borrow sticks to beat the drums with them.
combo	Seemed to make the performers even more enthusiastic.
combo	Eventually we found Emmanuel again and told him about our wishes to see the Susa group of the gorillas.
combo	He left us for a bit and came back and said that it had been taken care of.
combo	But we were told beforehand about that it could be a long walk.
combo	But we had been prepared for that.
combo	We met up with our guide Fernando who assembled our group and informed us everything we needed to know.
combo	Very funny and informative guide at the same time, he made us all feel very relaxed and excited.
combo	I'm sure every guide there are more than capable to escort you to see the different gorilla groups but I'm happy we got Fernando as our guide as he seemed seasoned enough to be so very relaxed and sure around the gorillas.
combo	Trackers were also there to help when we arrived at the gorilla family.
combo	They also helped us and told us what to do and how to act.
combo	A car drive of about 1.30 hours to a village to start the trek.
combo	Then, between the villages crops and fields, we started walking towards the mountain area of Karisimbi.
combo	After about 4-5 hours of trekking through thick bushes and bushes, covered with nettles and thorns, we came across the gorillas of the Susa family.
combo	Make sure to google about the clothing pointers of trekking through the jungled areas of Rwanda before you go.
combo	Thick trousers is advised as nettles goes through most thin clothes.
combo	Even gloves are advised but not necessary, i'd say, but raincoat and trousers or a good rain poncho is a must!
combo	We were surprised by the rain and it went from sweaty muckiness to freezing cold.
combo	By the time i got to my rain clothes I was soaking wet.
combo	Oh, and a good pair of walking boots or high shoes is also a good advice as, when it's raining it can be very muddy and you are more than likely to slip even with the best of boots.
combo	Even so, it never affected the experience of being around, and surrounded at some points, by the fabulous mountain gorillas.
combo	I cannot describe this experience, it has to be experienced first hand in order to make it just.
combo	But one thing is for sure; you won't regret it!
combo	If you are remotely interested to see these wonderful beings you are definitely in for a treat!
combo	From the giant silverback to the smallest baby gorilla; you felt like they welcomed you almost.
combo	Like they wanted to show how they lived their life.
combo	You get 1 hour with them and then you start heading back again.
combo	This is a policy which is understandable and reasonable.
combo	Make sure you just don't look at the gorillas through a lens too much though as 1 hour can go quick."
combo	Definitely do at least two days if you can.
combo	We had a great experience!
combo	IT!
combo	Take gators and gloves!
combo	Rain coat and layer clothes.
combo	Hire the porters to give them jobs but it also helps when you get tired and they can help to carry your back pack and/or help you up and down the hike.
combo	"Trekking to the Mountain Gorilla Jungle has been on our bucket list for years.
combo	We decided to go in January 2017 hoping for nice weather and smaller crowds.
combo	We lucked out on both counts, plus spent memorable hours with these magnificent creatures.
combo	A web search yielded a dozens of tour companies all working out of Rwanda or Uganda and all visiting the same National Parks.
combo	Plus they all have the same hotel room inventory to work from.
combo	So we quickly figured out that the differences would be in the organization of the reservation office and the guide who would transport us from place to place.
combo	These reviews on Trip Advisor provided valuable feedback fro both pleased and not-so-pleased guests.
combo	We elected to first try out Gorilla Trek Africa based upon these reviews and based upon the fact that they had a name and phone number of someone located in the US.
combo	We made simultaneous inquiries to Bill at the US contact phone and by email to Nelson in the Ugandan office.
combo	To our pleasant surprise both answered within a matter of a few hours [Nelson often stays up late answering emails].
combo	Bill offered to answer questions but advised us to work with Nelson on the details.
combo	In a few days and quite a few iterations we had an itinerary.
combo	Then, we learned on the one day of the week we wanted to fly, the airline didn’t operation.
combo	Without any hint of irritation, Nelson re-arranged everything.
combo	We had a bit of a problem with their payment portal and the heightened security of our stateside credit cards.
combo	So Nelson organized and executed a work-around.
combo	Without hesitation we can state he is one of the best tour organizers around.
combo	We opted to fly in and out of Rwanda, but wanted to see Gorillas in both the Rwanda and Uganda parks.
combo	Plus Uganda has a more extensive network of game preserves.
combo	So our trip included both countries.
combo	In Rwanda we did the normal Gorilla thing: groups of 8, pre-briefing, drive to trailhead, 1 hour with the animals.
combo	It was a simple 4Km walk over easy terrain with good footing.
combo	Most of the walk was through farmland.
combo	The Gorillas were not more than a few hundred meters from the forest edge and the guides lead us right to the place since the spotters had started hours earlier and already located them.
combo	We spent an hour with a large family full of playful young, unafraid females, and of course a big silverback.
combo	In general, we stayed 5 m away but on multiple occasions the gorillas would choose to walk closer on their way to another tasty patch of leaves.
combo	This family was quite used to Humans.
combo	We took dozens of wonderful photos.
combo	The only negative was another guest who made a huge issue of us carrying our own daypacks [containing all our valuables].
combo	That’s the downside of randomly being assigned to groups.
combo	In Uganda we elected to take the Gorilla Habitation Experience.
combo	This meant we had 4 hours in Gorilla country for just the two of us [and our staff of 5 machete wielding gun toting guides].
combo	This day we hiked 12 Km with 800m of vertical through extraordinarily difficult jungle.
combo	While the pictures were better in Rwanda, the personal connection made with both the guides and the gorillas in Uganda made it an experience we will never to forget.
combo	Roughly an hour of our 4 hour was spent tracking the Family from the previous day’s last seen GPS coordinates to their overnight next to their current feeding location.
combo	Then we spent an couple hours locating and following the silverback as he watched and interacted with his family.
combo	This family was not very accustomed to humans.
combo	A word of caution to others, this can be a difficult excursion.
combo	We think nothing of hiking 20Km and doing 1000m of elevation.
combo	Yet we were tired after this day in the jungle.
combo	We elected for the Batwa Pygmies tour and some game drives in Queen Ann National Park.
combo	These were great additions to a wonderful trip.
combo	So if one is going all the way to Africa, you mind-as-well include some additional activities.
combo	However, Queen Ann NP does not have the diversity of Serengeti or other top tier game parks.
combo	And, the Batwa have all been relocated so the 4 hour tour is mostly a show and tell of how they once lived.
combo	William Kirye was our guide and driver.
combo	Most important his English was excellent.
combo	Equally important were excellent customer service skills.
combo	He was considerate, patient with us, explained whatever we asked, punctual, and good natured.
combo	He was probably the best (safest) driver we’ve ever had on a private tour.
combo	He would take an occasional meal with us so we got to know him personally which increased our enjoyment of the trip.
combo	And yes, he was great at spotting and identifying wildlife.
combo	We enjoyed our time driving through the villages of Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The highlands of the north-western part of Rwanda and south-western Uganda are a lovely countryside.
combo	The villages are pleasant and while poor are not impoverished.
combo	The people are friendly and we never feared for our safety.
combo	The roads are good; and while the distances are not large, everything moves slowly so the elapsed times are long.
combo	Someone doing a similar itinerary should plan on spending quite a bit of time in the land rover.
combo	Nelson offered us economy, midrange, and luxury accommodations.
combo	Then he explained that Rwanda/Uganda mid-range was actually at the lower end of what we might find in the States or Europe.
combo	So we chose the top end for not too many more dollars and were quite satisfied.
combo	5-Star luxury they were not.
combo	They were however very clean with outstanding service and local décor.
combo	The meals were always excellent and I think we each gained over 2Kg on this trip."
combo	"What a great time in Rwanda!!
combo	Our guide was Krish W. and he really did everything and more to let us spend 2 exciting days at the volcanoes national park.
combo	We did the gorilla and golden monkeys tracking, both experiences will be unforgetable.
combo	Also Nelson who was our first contact (trough an agent in Kenya) did a programme that already exceed our expectations.
combo	Thanks Krish for being so polite with us we thank all the great team!"
combo	"This tour group has been fabulous for planning my trip.
combo	I happen to have a permit for gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda that I booked through them and will not be using.
combo	If anyone needs a permit on February 23, 2017, let me know and you can obtain it directly through them at the face value of the Rwanda permit."
combo	I found gorilla trek via a Google search and naturally I was a bit wary about whether the company was genuine or not.
combo	I need not of worried as they were always very prompt in replying to emails.
combo	The booking process was very easy and the company was able to accommodate my dates and wishes.
combo	My driver Krish was a great guy and was good company for the 2 days.
combo	The company delivered on everything they promised.
combo	"I started the trip off solo, so I was nervous, but as soon as I got out of the airport in Kigali - I was greeted by my awesome driver Douglas and all my fears went away.
combo	He was so nice and knowledgeable.
combo	I stayed at Serena in Kigali and then we departed for Uganda the next morning.
combo	Long drive, but places to stop and see along the way.
combo	Crater Safari Lodge.
combo	Very nice, but you can't charge your phone in your room.
combo	Although they have a charging station up at the main area.
combo	I booked a Chimpanzee trek and a game viewing on boat in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	I saw Hippos, Elephants, Water Buffalo, etc.
combo	I would highly recommend.
combo	We drove through the Savannah and I saw Elephants and Baboons.
combo	Stay that night was at Mweya lodge - another excellent stay and there were Wart Hogs all over my front lawn!
combo	So cute and there were Mongeese coming up to me as well.
combo	Beware of the Water Buffalo though!
combo	The next day we drove to Rawanda and stayed at a great lodge.
combo	Mountain Gorilla View.
combo	Very nice.
combo	Fireplace in your room.
combo	Rustic at times, but perfect.
combo	They also welcomed you back from your treks with a hot cup of tea and they cleaned the mud off your boots!
combo	The food at all three lodges was excellent.
combo	I am a pescatarian and a very picky eater - so I'm glad it all worked out.
combo	We did the Gorilla Trek (unbelievable) and the Golden Monkey trek (easier and the monkey were so cute).
combo	The Gorilla Trek though was so amazing.
combo	Jack Hannah actually showed up on the trip and was doing his own Gorilla trek!
combo	It was great to meet him.
combo	Two days later we drove back to Kigali and you must go to the Genocide Memorial Museum as well as Camp Kigali.
combo	It was very moving and powerful.
combo	The people of both countries were beautiful.
combo	The landscape in Uganda was spectacular and Kigali was sooooo clean!
combo	Great city, very safe.
combo	Rwanda was a perfectly safe country.
combo	No issues.
combo	Douglas took care of EVERYTHING for us and he was a fantastic host when I was there.
combo	Nelson answered all of my questions prior to the trip and took care of all of our permits and passes.
combo	I would highly recommend this trip!
combo	Let me know if you have any questions.
combo	PS try and buy gaitors to put over your boots for the trek, its very very muddy)"
combo	This was a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Was pleasantly surprised at the airport to be greeted by our handsome tour guide Gavis.
combo	He was a delight and showed us the best parts of Rwanda.
combo	The entire experience was exceptional and I would recommend the trip and the company to anyone.
combo	They really take care of everything so you don't have to worry about a thing and get to experience Rwanda and the gorillas stress free.
combo	We were very pleased with the trip and with our lovely guide who was knowledgable and a pleasure to be around for our three day adventure!
combo	"I booked the two day trip with Gorilla Trek Africa after reading nearly all of the TripAdvisor reviews and contacting several companies to find out more details.
combo	Nelson was easy to contact and was usually prompt responses, given the five hour time difference between Rwanda and my location in Canada.
combo	I was picked up promptly from my hotel in Kigali by my guide Asaph.
combo	I had already visited the Genocide Memorial in Kigali with a conference, however, Asaph took me to the Camp Kigali Belgian Memorial, which was especially interesting after being at the Genocide Memorial already.
combo	As with another traveler, I had also selected the Muhabura Hotel close to Musanze City but was upgraded to the Da Vinci Lodge after Nelson explained there had been several complaints about Muhabura Hotel.
combo	The Da Vinci Lodge was a decadent hotel with Tracey and Aaron and staff going above and beyond with the service - calling me by name, bringing hot water bottle to my cottage at night, checking on me during my meal - I've never received such excellent attention to detail at a hotel.
combo	The visit to the local cultural village was somewhat interesting, but had the obvious feel of being there just for tourists.
combo	That's OK - the dancing and singing was excellent and the tourist area discussed maybe customs of the country and region of Rwanda.
combo	I received a wake-up knock on my cottage the following morning - bearing coffee - and breakfast was ready for me when arrived at the main lodge.
combo	Asaph was excellent with assistance at the park to get the gorilla trek started.
combo	He looked after renting my gators and various other details.
combo	Our park guide Roger was excellent, as were the porters.
combo	It really was a magical experience."
combo	"I would heartily recommend going to see the gorillas even though it is very expensive - it is the experience of a lifetime.
combo	Our driver picked us up punctually in Kigali and was attentive and helpful throughout and drove well.
combo	We had had a lot of correspondence with Gorilla Trek Africa about my wife's difficulty with walking owing to a disability and they had assured us this would be taken into account.
combo	We were surprised that the driver had not been briefed about this.
combo	We had to make sure that this was taken into account when we were allocated groups for trekking, which it was.
combo	We had sent scanned copies of our passports to the company, which we assumed would have been given to the driver for entry to the park.
combo	On arrival we found that this had not been done and we spent some anxious time negotiating entry.
combo	Our driver and the officials were helpful and courteous and found a solution for us.
combo	In their advertising material, Gorilla Trek Africa say, ""On arrival, enjoy your breakfast"" - we took this to mean that breakfast would be supplied, but in fact there was only tea without milk so we recommend that trekkers take their own breakfast plus snacks for the day.
combo	Our guide and all the park personnel were amazing, and seeing the gorillas was the experience of a lifetime - do not miss it!
combo	I do think that this particular company (and there are many competitors) could have communicated better with us and internally, but this gripe does not take away from the wonderful experience.
combo	I would check out a range of tour operators before deciding on which one to choose to get you to the park, but even with the small niggles, I would use Gorilla Trek Africa next time as I am now better prepared!"
combo	"We booked our Trip with Gorrila Trek, very thing was well planed from the first day, we arrived in Kampala very late from Kigali Rwanda, though our flight was changed but they waited for us to arrive, thank to our Driver guide he was well prepared.
combo	Our Safari began the next day very early in the morning after breakfast, the park was amazing we managed to see lots of gorillas, the driver guide was very knowledgeable about the all environment and the behaviors of the gorillas.
combo	To tell you the truth this was a life time experience with Gorilla Trek, I would recommend this company to all travelers visiting Uganda."
combo	We took a day trip with Gorilla Trek Africa from Kigali leaving at 4.30am and were driven to Volcanoes National Park to see the gorillas.
combo	It was one of the best things we have ever done.
combo	We arranged the trek via email and telephone through Nelson who was extremely responsive and helpful.
combo	Our guide Gavis arrived at exactly 4.30am after having been in touch with us at 4.15 to confirm that he was on his way.
combo	The drive to the national park took just under 2 hours and Gavis driving was exceptional and allowed us to sleep on the way there.
combo	Gavis managed all of our passes and the organisation throughout the day and was incredibly professional.
combo	Our return journey was just as smooth and we were able to have great conversation with him.
combo	We cannot recommend the company enough and especially Gavis.
combo	Thank you!
combo	"Amazing, unforgetable experience.
combo	We just finished a 6 day safari tour with Gorilla trek Africa, Arthur was our guide.
combo	It was an absolutely amazing expereince from start to finish.
combo	Arthur went above and beyond for the 4 of us.
combo	We saw everything there was to see - lions, hyenas, hippos, elephants, water buck, cobes, zebras, all types of monkeys, gorillas the list goes on.
combo	Our guide Arthur' made the trip for us, he was so well informed on everything and had an amazing eye for spotting the animals and bringing us to the areas where we would find them.
combo	He was punctual, informed, energetic, welcoming and we all had a brilliant time together.
combo	Thank you Arthur.
combo	We will be back.Highly highly recommend."
combo	"We booked at Gorilla Trek Africa the 2 day trip starting with a city tour on the way to Volcanoes NP.
combo	Followed by the most exciting trip we ever did.
combo	After contacting Mr Nelson the feedback was fast and professional.
combo	Iternary was attached with detailed description.
combo	When the time came we got picked up by our guide Asaph.
combo	A very friendly and supportive young men which showed and explained us this beautiful and exciting country.
combo	Specially after visiting the Genozide museum a lot of questions came up and Asaph explanation were all clear and understandable.
combo	After choosing the Muhabura lodge close to Musanze City we were upgraded to the Da Vinci lodge.
combo	This were a perfect decision.
combo	Tracey and her team were just perfectly looking after us.
combo	Meal, service, fire at the chemine all were just brilliant.
combo	Unforgettable was of course the trek to the Gorillas with the most famous guide Francoise.
combo	All in one a trip we will never forget.
combo	Thanks to all."
combo	"When choosing a Gorilla Trekking company I found that the big companies such as Exodus, G adventures etc, they did not have an itinerary that satisfied all of my requirements for a trip in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	I contacted this local Ugandan/Rwandan company and was impressed to get a reply within a few hours with a tailor made trip itinerary attached.
combo	I am a backpacker and could not afford luxurious hotels but the company could provide all options to suit your budget.
combo	I arrived on my trip and was greeted by my guide Bob.
combo	What a pleasure it has been to be in the company of such a enthusiastic and helpful individual!
combo	His knowledge of both Uganda and Rwanda was exceptional and he always went above and beyond to ensure that I was looked after and transported to my treks safety and on time.
combo	Being a solo traveler I was nervous to be traveling alone but Bob made e fee completely at ease and I thoroughly enjoyed his company.
combo	I decided to trek both in Rwanda and Uganda as I was not sure which would be the better one to go for.
combo	I found that gorilla trekking in Rwanda was definatley more pubicized by the country than in Uganda and this meant that there were a larger number of people that would trek every day in the Volcanoes national park.
combo	The positive f Rwanda trekking is that there are treks to suit all abilities, ranging from shorter, gentler hikes to longer more physically demanding treks.
combo	Uganda on the other hand was definately a sight not to be missed.
combo	I went trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, an unspoilt area of jaw-droppingly beautiful ancient rainforest, basically untouched.
combo	The trekking groups were smaller but the waking was definatley more physically demanding due to the steep mountainous terrain.
combo	Both countries offer great Gorilla sightings but for me Uganda had the edge.
combo	Just the whole experience of trekking through forest areas that had not seen humans passing through them before, the intimate trekking experience of trekking with a smaller group and the superb quality of information on Gorillas and our Gorilla family given by the park rangers.
combo	This is definately an experience I will never forget - thank you Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"I just finished the tour where I left Kigali Saturday at 1 pm, stayed at the DaVinci hotel near the Volcanoes Park and then trekked in to see the gorillas Sunday morning.
combo	I chose Gorilla Trek Africa because of the great reviews on TripAdvisor and was pleased that the reviews were spot on.
combo	I was worried Beijing a solo traveler but felt safe the entire time and well cared for.
combo	The trip went very smoothly.
combo	I did not ask for a specific guide and was assigned Mr Gavis.
combo	He was excellent!!
combo	English was no problem.
combo	He was knowledgeable, courteous and funny.
combo	Managed the trip without difficulty and answered all questions and took care of all issues.
combo	Had a lot of fun during the time spent with him (over two hours each way between Kigali and the park).
combo	Highly recommend."
combo	"Amazing experience.
combo	Once in a lifetime.
combo	This operator is fantastic.
combo	Asaph goes above-and-beyond, He even spent an extra SIX HOURS on the road to retrieve some belongings we left behind.
combo	You are the best Asaph.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"We booked through this company based on Trip Advisor comments and we were thoroughly pleased.
combo	Our guide for our 3 day trip, Sam, was extremely knowledgeable about Rwandan history and culture.
combo	Our drive to the Volcanos National Park was unforgettable, winding through the mountains and seeing Rwandan people up close.
combo	The gorilla experience is a once in a lifetime trip and Sam ensured that every aspect of the trip went flawlessly.
combo	We inadvertently left our hiking boots at the lodge and he arranged for us to get them back via bus before we left.
combo	This was above and beyond service and we highly recommend this company for your Rwandan trip."
combo	I found Gorilla Trek Africa here on tripadvisor and all the 5 star reviews are right on.
combo	I am very pleased with my experience.
combo	Great communication from start to finish during booking.
combo	William my driver and guide is the man.
combo	Really enjoyed his company and he took great care of me and did his best to ensure I was paired with good groups for my trek to the gorillas.
combo	The experience of seeing the mountain gorillas was beyond what I imagined.
combo	Simply incredible.
combo	Book with these guys and you will have a great trip.
combo	"We couldn't have asked for a better day.
combo	This was truly a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Gavis, our guide to the trek was informative, professional, educational, and all around awesome.
combo	He made the 2-2.5 hour car ride from Kigali so easy and he was so helpful and polite.
combo	The trek itself was life changing.
combo	We loved seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat.
combo	Lois, our main guide, was incredible at leading and explaining.
combo	Thanks for an awesome day.
combo	We would recommend your company to anyone and everyone."
combo	"This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
combo	Our guide, Douglas, did a phenomenal job of driving us through the hilly and unapologetic terrain of Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	He was incredible and helped us with many of the ""little"" things, such as advising us on tipping etiquette and helping us seamlessly cross country borders.
combo	Nelson, one of the organizers in the main office, was communicative and responsive throughout the whole process.
combo	And of course, the gorillas were absolutely amazing.
combo	The most memorable trek for me was in Bwindi, but Volcanoes National Park certainly didn't disappoint.
combo	This is the experience of a lifetime."
combo	"Trekking with the mountain Gorillas is an unreal experience.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa (GTA) delivered a perfect and highly flexible tour through Rwanda.
combo	I had a swollen knee after descending Mount Kilimanjaro 2 days prior.
combo	We were impressed by the ease with which our guide, Chris, amended the tour itinerary to accommodate my injury.
combo	We had a large amount of control over general timing, which most tour companies tend to not accommodate.
combo	Chris displayed exceptional knowledge on the history of Rwanda and animal conservation.
combo	He was highly professional and we felt very well taken care of.
combo	The hike to see the Golden Monkeys is worthwhile and we would highly recommend it.
combo	The rooms and service at Five Volcanoes Hotel were superb, making the luxury accommodation option the ultimate choice.
combo	Rwanda as a whole was extremely impressive.
combo	Contrary to general perception, it is extremely clean, well organised and has great highways.
combo	A visit to the Genocide museum is a difficult, but is a worthwhile experience to gain insight into country's tragic history and realise just how far its people have progressed towards unity."
combo	"My experience with Gorilla Trek Africa lived up to all the rave reviews.
combo	Was picked up by my guide, Bob, at the Kigali airport late in the morning and headed immediately to the Genocide Memorial, which is heartbreaking but a must-see.
combo	Drove 2 hrs that afternoon up toward Volcanoes National Park, and I got lessons on everything from history and culture to the natural environment of the country--Bob is a walking encyclopedia of Rwanda!
combo	Stayed in a budget hotel, which turned out to be Dian Fossey's old home!
combo	Simple but more than sufficient for my needs and had a great restaurant/bar.
combo	Did a medium trek to the Isabukuru gorilla family on Day 2 (took about 3 hours each way since one of our group members was recovering from illness and they didn't want us trekking too far apart).
combo	I travel A LOT and this was by far and away one of the top experiences of my life.
combo	Our gorilla family had a lot of babies and seeing them beat their chests and chase each other around was incredible.
combo	Most of my trekking group was pretty close to speechless the entire hour we were with the gorillas.
combo	Felt I was in very good hands with the rangers and the porters, who frequently pulled me out of the mud.
combo	:) Visited a cultural village in the afternoon which was a tad hokey but fun and informative nevertheless; appreciated the opportunity to support a community which has dropped poaching in favor of tourism.
combo	Day 3 was a golden monkey trek--much easier than the gorilla trek (maybe an hour tops on much flatter terrain), and a very different experience--bigger trekking groups, and the monkeys are easier to find but harder to photograph as they dart through the bamboo forest!
combo	Beware of the safari ants--either tuck your pants into long socks or bring gaiters (I think GTA can provide some if you ask).
combo	Drove back to Kigali after the trek and had a bit of time left before my flight check-in, so Bob suggested the Presidential Palace Museum near the airport.
combo	Was really glad we added this--it seems underdeveloped given its significance to Rwandan history, but was fascinating.
combo	This was where the genocide was planned, and where the president's plane was shot down in 1994.
combo	The secret passageways, security measures, and interrogation room paint a picture of a president who was seriously paranoid (and rightly so, as it turns out).
combo	Overall, Rwanda far exceeded my expectations--one of the cleanest and safest countries I've been to.
combo	Planning the trip with Nelson via email was super easy; I had a great experience with this company and will definitely give them a call when I head to Uganda in the future!"
combo	"I have always wanted to see the gorillas.
combo	I contacted Gorilla Trek Africa and they put together a customized 10 day experience.
combo	The itinerary included exactly what I wanted, lots of gorilla trekking, and the activity levels I desired.
combo	The trip went perfect.
combo	I was me at the airport at 8pm by Gavis (when you book ask for Gavis, no wait, demand it :) ) Gavis spoke perfect English, knows the areas, and gave lots of insight.
combo	I spent the first night at the Kigali Serena, that is an exceptional hotel.
combo	In the morning Gavis and I drove to Uganda so I could hike in Bwindi.
combo	Absolutely an amazing experience.
combo	We then did a community cultural experience, and then hiked to see the Bwindi waterfall.
combo	The next day we went back to Rwanda to the Volcanos national park.
combo	I did two more days of gorilla trekking.
combo	On all three treks, I saw numerous gorillas.
combo	The guides are all great.
combo	All of the guides are great.
combo	They take you to the gorilla families in groups of 8, and there are plenty of phot opportunities for the gorillas.
combo	If you can, trek in Uganda and Rwanda, totally different experiences.
combo	I then did the Dian Fossey hike, and the Golden Monkey hike- both were great.
combo	I then went back to Kigali and stayed at the Kigali Serena, again it was a great stay.
combo	The transfer back to the airport was arranged.
combo	I would highly recommend this company for Gorilla Trekking.
combo	It was a great experience.
combo	Everything was well planned so all I had to do was enjoy.
combo	But again, hats off to Gavis how made this trip most enjoyable."
combo	"Trekking the gorillas is a must do experience while in Rwanda, The tours, guides, and gorillas are incredible.
combo	It is an experience like no other.
combo	Go do it!"
combo	"This was one of the most amazing things I have done.
combo	A last minute plan, the trip was amazing in every way.
combo	A great medium range hike to the 'Amhoro' family.
combo	First sighting was of the leader of the pack, a rather gentle silverback.
combo	Then the rest of the family including a 4 month old.
combo	Just surreal."
combo	"We used Gorilla Trek Africa to book a 10 day tour of Rwanda, including gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest National Park.
combo	When were were booking and trying to figure out what we wanted to do Nelson was very helpful and was fast to respond.
combo	Our guide for the 10 days, Eric, was excellent.
combo	Eric was knowledgeable about the country and its history.
combo	He was great to talk to, always on time and had a great attitude.
combo	Rwanda is an amazing country -not only for the gorilla's but for what they have overcome and how they have move ahead.
combo	It is must visit country,"
combo	We went trekking on two days to see two families.
combo	The first day we were with the Hirwa Family and it was fabulous as the gorillas were eating bamboo and it was fairly open territory.
combo	The second day we were in the very dense bush with the Titan Family.
combo	This was somewhat disappointing as the gorillas were harder to see and very difficult to get decent photos of.
combo	Unfortunately we had no control over which families we were given to visit.
combo	The rangers decide who goes where.
combo	The local entertainment was interesting to watch while we waited for the rangers to make their decisions.
combo	Coffee was provided and there were bathrooms at the check in point.
combo	Our guide Krish was fantastic.
combo	Nothing was too much trouble for him.
combo	He was very knowledgeable and a very careful driver.
combo	Our lodge in the park was interesting.
combo	They tried very hard to make our stay comfortable.
combo	To the point of putting 4 hot water bottles in our bed.
combo	Heat in the bathroom was a challenge but they tried to fix that as well.
combo	Even before we left home we found the service of this company to be amazing.
combo	So quick to respond to questions and enquiries.
combo	We felt very comfortable that it would be a great experience.
combo	Before we left Bill phoned us from USA to make sure everything was in order.
combo	This company lives up to it's reputation on being number 1 on Trip Advisor.
combo	We would highly recommend them.
combo	No worries.
combo	"From booking online to the drop back to my hotel in Kigali, the day was brilliant.
combo	Dealing with Nelson remotely, was a pleasure and completely professional.
combo	The pre check in the evening before the trek was well managed - Krish who was my guide came to the hotel made sure that I was organised and asked whether I needed anything in advance.
combo	We left at 4.00am the next day.
combo	I only had 1 day so the start was early but dont let this perturb you.
combo	The trek was much shorter than I had anticipated - it was only 30 minutes because the gorillas cam out of the forest to graze, who we didn't have to go far"
combo	what an incredible 2 days of gorilla treking.
combo	A MUST do adventure if you are physically fit to do so.
combo	Thank you Beck and Eugene for bringing us face to face with these amazing creatures.
combo	"I want to add my voice to the chorus of praise for Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	My guide Gavis was warm, friendly and very knowledgeable.
combo	From picking me up from the airport to delivering me back there two days later he looked after me very well.
combo	The visit with the gorillas was amazing.
combo	I picked a ""medium"" group so it was about a three hour trek to reach the group but my porter helped me over any difficult parts of the trail.
combo	Such a great experience!
combo	The visit with the golden monkeys was a much easier walk and was so much fun watching all their antics - such beautiful animals.
combo	The organisation of my trip was exemplary and I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone making the journey.
combo	I only wish I had had more time to see other parts of Rwanda."
combo	"WOW!
combo	This was one of the most amazing things I have done in my life (63 years young) .
combo	Not for those who are not in reasonable physical condition or those who are easily frightened by wildlife, but if you are neither of those this is an experience of a life time.
combo	This was not on my bucket list but it showed me my bucket list is not complete!"
combo	"The trackers will stay with any gorilla group until they make their night nests, and arrive after dawn to track them from those locations the next day, so there is a strong (though never 100%) likelihood of seeing a gorilla family.
combo	The hike depends on the distance of the family.
combo	Can be a tad hard, though never close to Machu Picchu or Everest-Base Camp levels of difficulty.
combo	Just be in reasonable shape.
combo	Nothing in your life will compare to communicating with a Mountain Gorilla in their own tongue (the guides will teach you a few vocalisations to make) If you see Cantsbee from the Pablo group, say Hi to him for me."
combo	"I went with a group of people and everyone loved it.
combo	Nelson was great at dealing with 4 peoples millions of questions and changes we made with our trip.
combo	They picked us up in Kigali which was convenient for us and took us to our hotel and picked us up there to do our day tours and then back to the airport at Kigali.
combo	Everyone was amazing, gracious, knowledgeable and love their country.
combo	Our guide was very patient and even took us shopping a little.
combo	I can't think of anything that could have been better for this trip.
combo	we were all very satisfied and loved our once in a lifetime experience with the gorillas and golden monkeys"
combo	"We (my husband, brother and I) did a 10 day trip through Uganda/Rwanda to see Murchison Falls, chimps, QENP gorillas and more!!
combo	We planned the trip with Nicolas, then also with Nelson who were very knowledgeable and patient and answered my million of questions very promptly.
combo	Rogers was our guide for the trip and he was a perfect example of what a driver/guide should be!
combo	He was always smiling, professional, courteous and we really enjoyed getting to know him better.
combo	We could tell he puts a lot of effort to make this trip perfect for us.
combo	We felt very lucky to have a such a professional and friendly person to accompany us on our trip.
combo	We did a mix of accommodations ranging from luxury to budget and we were perfectly happy with all of them!
combo	This trip to Uganda really exceeded all my expectations and in a large part, that was because of the work from Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I would not hesitate to recommend this company to anyone planning a trip in Uganda/Rwanda."
combo	"It is hard to describe what a wonderful experience this is.
combo	The two hour climb to the gorillas was well worth the effort.
combo	To spend one hour with these magnificent creatures is an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.
combo	I don't think I have ever been so excited or felt that the expense was worth every cent.
combo	If you have the opportunity to take part in this activity, then do it!"
combo	This is an absolutely must do activity!!
combo	Was an unreal experience like no other.
combo	You get so close to the gorillas it's amazing.
combo	Was a bit of a hike up the mountains but well worth it.
combo	Kigali is also such a beautiful place!
combo	Tour guides are nice and you can also hire a porter to help you on the way!
combo	10/10
combo	"From my initial interaction with Nelson (the owner) everything has been perfect.
combo	My tour guide William K. met me at my hotel in entebbe.
combo	The two of us drove for 10 hours to Bwindi national park.
combo	William K. was informative, kind, generous with his knowledge, and knew so much about Uganda, the history, and the rich culture.
combo	They planned the perfect itinerary for a single traveler.
combo	The hotels they selected were awesome.
combo	The gorillas were amazing.
combo	William K was such a wonderful guide a very conscientious driver.
combo	He is an exceptional bird watcher and knows so much about the wildlife both in and outside of the parks.
combo	I could not have asked for a better trip.
combo	It was great.
combo	Don't hesitate to book your safari with Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"My partner and I did the 3 day tour to gorillas, golden monkeys, Kigali city tour and cultural village with gorilla trek Africa.
combo	It was fantastic and the highlight of our African trip.
combo	Being less fit we appreciated getting on the shorter hike, thanks to our guide, David.
combo	Spending an hour with the gorillas was special, we were so close it was a bit scary initially, but after a while i felt less apprehensive.
combo	Visiting at this time, when the bamboo shoots are coming up is ideal as they were very active digging out the shoots.
combo	Highly recommend the cultural village as it was very interactive and learned a lot about the Rwandan culture, it supports people to earn an income away from poaching.
combo	Our accommodation was great at the five volcanoes, staff were very friendly, the food was great and rooms very clean.
combo	The only down bit was the tour of Kigali city tour, that was a bit rushed and not informative.
combo	The genocide memorial was good in that it provided comprehensive information with personal stories.
combo	Overall, Rwanda was a great place to visit and I wished we had more time there.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	Thank you to Nelson and Gorilla Trek Africa for arranging an incredible trip for us.
combo	My wife and I did the three day Kigali - Gorilla Trek - Golden Monkey Trek tour staying at the Mountain View Gorilla Lodge.
combo	Everything was beyond expectation.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful country full of warm and friendly people and the Gorilla experience was second to none.
combo	Thank you to our wonderful guide Asaph.
combo	Would highly recommend him and Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	P.s.
combo	it was so good I decided to leave my first ever review on TA!
combo	"We recently traveled to Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas for our honeymoon and counld not have asked for a better travel company to go with.
combo	We planned all of the experience ourselves directly with the company, as we found Kwoni and travelfinders very expensive with the same travel firm.
combo	The company stayed in touch throughout and were excellent at meeting all of our expectations.
combo	We got picked up directly from the Airport and did a 3 day trip including the Genocide museums, tour of Kigali, village life tour, gorilla trekking and Golden monkeys.
combo	Enus our driver and guide was superb, and very knowledgable.
combo	He even took time out of his evening to come back and give us a detailed explanation of his account of the genocide which we thought went truely over and above his job requirements.
combo	The gorillas themselves were absolutely umbelivable with us visiting a family of approximately 20 gorillas, in a totally wild environment.
combo	We would thoroughly recommend this tour company to anyone wanting to visit Rwanda and go for an adventure!"
combo	"My husband and I went on a 6 day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	This tour company was very prompt in answering my e- mails and accommodating my requests.
combo	Our guide Sam was great!
combo	He was prompt, organized, and provided all kinds of information about the countries and the animals.
combo	Most importantly he made us feel safe.
combo	All our needs were looked after.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was an amazing experience.
combo	I would highly recommend this tour company."
combo	"The trek to see gorillas in Rwanda is probably one of the greatest life events that can be done on this planet.
combo	If you are one of the luckiest people in the world to do this then you know, if you have always wanted to do it, then book now."
combo	"We booked a 5 day tour from GorillaTrek Africa to see large primates.
combo	We were picked up from our clean, friendly Kigali hotel (FivetoFive Hotel) by our guide Moses, who took us straight into Uganda to Kabale Forest to see Chimpanzees.
combo	Next day we spent chasing Chimps in the trees, watching and listening to them.
combo	They stayed in the trees most of the time, but came down mid afternoon and we followed them through the forest.
combo	Upon returning to Primates Lodge, we found a chimp grazing right at the entrance.
combo	We then headed back into Rwanda, and stayed at Le bamboo Gorilla Lodge.
combo	Next morning it was up the Mountain with a Rwandan guide (Edward), and at an elevation of 10,000 feet we saw them!
combo	Despite being told we would be about 20 feet away, we were much closer, around 5 feet on average.
combo	The silverback, Mufunza, was enormous and protective of his family, he actually bluff charged at us twice to show he meant business.
combo	We watched them graze, wander, sleep, saw babies play, and wondered at them.
combo	We were so close, could have touched.
combo	After this, next morning we trekked to see Golden Monkeys, which spent their time eating bamboo shoots on the forest floor around us.
combo	Cute, and a nice experience, but nothing like the Gorilla experience the day before.
combo	Moses was a friendly and able guide for us, made sure we got the most out of our experiences as our driver and minder.
combo	One tip for seeing Gorillas: bring your iPhone.
combo	Finally, just an advert for Rwanda.
combo	Such a clean, friendly country, it surpassed our expectations with warmth and kindness."
combo	My husband and I spent a week with William our guide from gorilla trek Africa.
combo	he was helpful in very many ways and made us feel at home in Uganda.
combo	Such a great experience we couldn't done it any other way.
combo	"I booked a six day gorilla trekking experience with Gorilla Trek Africa, a local tour company.
combo	I had wanted to see the gorillas for over twenty years so there was a lot of pressure on the company to get it right, which they did in every way possible: the booking process was seemless with the amazing Nelson answering my numerous queries and the wonderful Krish who was my guide/driver for the entire trip.
combo	Krish did everything possible to make my trip as comfortable and special as possible, even providing me with replacement hiking boots when mine were destroyed while tracking chimpanzees.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa exceeded every expectation and I will be visiting Rwanda and Uganda again with this company (and hopefully I will be lucky enough to come across Nelson and Krish again)."
combo	"I only had 2 days to spare in Rwanda on my short East Africa city-hoping at the end of Sep and Gorilla trekking is on the wishing for this corner of the world.
combo	Upon internet search I came across Gorilla Trek Africa (GTA) and several other tour companies.
combo	After contacting several and comparing the info and communications I settled for the best, the top-rated one at TripAdvisor.
combo	I thought; I might only have one chance of Gorilla Trekking as I have a long wishlist to see and to do around the world; so why not go for The Number One.
combo	Nelson attended my email comms promptly and efficiently; giving all the details I needed; even further help me with queries on the phone.
combo	The best tour organizer I have encountered!
combo	I met Gavis my guide in the morning who after that became my Ange - guardian angel for two wonderful days of my tour.
combo	We had a tour around the city, went to the market, get some souvenir shopping done and my rain jacket - a well needed gear for the trekking.
combo	A visit to Genocide Memorial Park/ Museum is a must see during the city tour.
combo	Travel to Musanze encountered some stunning landscape; make sure you have you camera and video ready.
combo	Then later in the afternoon, I had another wonderful experience at the Iby'wachu cultural village.
combo	Despite the cold wind and drizzle, the performance and engagement in this village truly warmed my heart.
combo	Gorilla trekking the following day was AWESOME!
combo	I was so thrilled to be so close to the gorilla!
combo	I just could not get enough of them on photos and video.... After about one hour with the Gorilla family we descended quite quickly to the car park as some of us had flights to catch out of Kigali Airport.
combo	I was a bit nervous about missing the flight but Gavis played his role as my guardian angel perfectly; calming me down and efficiently organised everything.
combo	I could even had a quick shower at the lodge before heading back to Kigali Airport.
combo	He is a very safe driver and did not take any chances despite the time was tight for the drive Musanze - KGL airport.
combo	Gavis has all the qualities you need for a perfect tour guide and a friend!
combo	Overall, GTA is a real gem for Gorilla Trekking in the heart of Africa.
combo	They work across the borders so you can get any package you need.
combo	Highly recommended, both GTA and Gavis!"
combo	"We booked a 4 day Gorilla trekking experience with ""Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	The company exceeded every expectation; Nelson and Nicholas were extremely prompt to respond to our multiple pre-trip e-mails, including a last minute flight delay that altered our flight plans...EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE!
combo	Upon arrival at the Kigali airport, we were met by Erik(c), our assigned guide for the duration of the trip.
combo	He was all around AWESOME; very informative and well versed in Rwandan history and culture; he ensured that we were well taken care of throughout the duration of our trip...from helping us check into our hotel, to helping us get assigned to the gorilla families we were most interested in seeing (never guaranteed, but he really advocated for us).
combo	I highly recommend requesting him as your guide!
combo	Overall a wonderful experience, with a life time of memories!
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa!"
combo	"My husband and I booked through [ Gorilla Trek Africa ] Nelson was great, replied to all our emails promptly.
combo	Had to transfer 40% of our Tour costs and the balance on arrival.All safe and above board.We were met at the Airport by Bernard who was our driver for the next 4 days.
combo	Bernard was warm and friendly and we looked forward to seeing him each morning.
combo	The Gorillas are A MUST DO.What privilege to be able to see them in there natural surroundings.We felt safe and welcome at all times.
combo	I highly recommend this Tour Company.
combo	. ."
combo	"I wanted to choose a local tour company.
combo	Nicholas and Nelson at Gorilla Trek Africa was very professional and easy to deal with and instilled confidence in me In spite of my flight being one and a half hours late, Eric my guide for the three day Gorilla Trek handled my pickup confusion with a minimum of fuss and soon had me back on track staying at Five to Five hotel.
combo	The Five to Five Hotel met my needs admirably.
combo	The visit to the Genocide Museum was most informative and touching, The Rwandans want everyone to know that it must never happen again.
combo	While posing for a photo with the gorilla's in the background,one juvenile male sneaked up behind me to touch my beard over my shoulder WOW.
combo	I also found the visit to the Golden monkeys rewarding."
combo	"Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is very well organized and well worth the ticket, which is not cheap but serves to help preserve this amazing animal.
combo	I understand that one is virtually guaranteed of seeing a gorilla family and if for some reason you don't, they let you come back the next day.
combo	If the gorillas are feeding you may get very close as they do not seem to care if they walk right by you.
combo	One has mixed feelings about this since the rule is to stay 7m away.
combo	The hike is typically about 2 hours one-way but can be longer.
combo	Since it is straight up the mountain side, one needs to be fairly fit.
combo	I used AAB Tours and Travel based in Uganda because they were the only ones who could get a permit on Sunday at short notice.
combo	This was great but one does have to send $750 in advance and when I requested a scanned copy of the permit I never got it.
combo	They sent reassuring e-mails but visions of a 417 scam started to arise.
combo	They also do not give an address in Kigali to contact them.
combo	Turns out they work with Let's Go Tours.
combo	Anyway, I finally met up with their driver who was a former gorilla guide from Uganda.
combo	He was great, very knowledgeable and a very good driver.
combo	I have advised AAB to improve their communication and they have agreed.
combo	They booked me in the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge which was very good.
combo	All in all, a real success."
combo	"Thanks for the awesome experiance we had.
combo	It is amazing to see the the Gorillas in the Mountains of Rwanda.
combo	The Tour, Hotel and Airport Pick-Up was very well organized.
combo	We feel great during our stay.
combo	Thank to Gavis oir Driver, he did a wonderful Job feel us welcome and save everytime.
combo	You have to do this at least once in your live.
combo	The feeling, when you see the Gorillas after the walk throu the Jungle you can't describe.
combo	Thank you for this great experience, was the best i could do on our African-Tour."
combo	Very professionally arranged.
combo	Excellent driver William who was afe and informative.
combo	We stayed at Bambou lodge which had fires in the bedroom to keep us warm at night.
combo	The gorilla experience is managed by Rwanda Volcanoes National Park stqff and is sensitive to the needs of gorillas and tourists.
combo	"The team at Gorilla Trek Africa were great in setting me up a customised itinerary on reasonably short notice.
combo	I spent a total of 4 nights with GTA in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	I was collected in Kigali and moved up into Uganda and looped back through to Rwanda.
combo	The accomodation they organised was great and my guide, Douglas, was fantastic.
combo	Extremely friendly and was always concerned with my welfare and nothing was too much trouble at all.
combo	My only complaint would be that I wasn't made aware that there is a chimp habitutation option when observing the chimps as I probably would have gone for that.
combo	Met a few of the other guides that work for GTA as well and all were extremely friendly.
combo	Definitely would recommend using them to friends."
combo	"Was doing a tour of the southern part of Africa and after it ended I had a few days..
combo	I decided to start researching whether or not a few days was enough to get to see the Gorillas in Rwanda.. After researching here on TA, I decided to contact Gorilla Trek Africa.. To be truthful I did not do any shopping around other than TA, and once I began communicating with office and Nelson was so prompt and helpful I decided I would not waste any energy ""shopping around""..
combo	I can not say enough about this trip...
combo	I was greeted by a huge smile from Gavis...
combo	He showed we around Kigali before we went to the Park area to get ready for my adventure.. To see the Gorillas is something that needs to be experienced I can not explain how amazing it was..
combo	I did decide on 2 days with the Gorillas instead of the traditional 1 and 1 day with the Golden Monkeys.. And boy.. oh boy.. am I ever glad I made that decision as well.. (highly recommend if you can afford)..
combo	I was fortunate enough to have the same guide for both days (2 different families) - Patrick..
combo	In my opinion this also enhanced my experience as we formed a relationship on the first trek and he totally spoiled and took care of me for the second.. Of course this is not easy to accomplish as you have no idea what treks the guides are on and which ones you will need, however Gavis put forth the effort to get me Patrick and Success..!!!!!
combo	My experience from beginning to end on this adventure was second to none.. Quite honestly the 3 countries I did prior to Rwanda pale in comparison...
combo	I feel I left behind a number of friends in Rwanda... Not guides and primates..
combo	But friends..
combo	Highly recommend Gavis and I will be back... Expect to see you in the future my friend.. :)"
combo	"I've done a fair bit of traveling in my time, and i can honestly say that I have never been as pleasantly surprised as I was after visiting Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Both very safe, clean, warm and friendly places.
combo	Very happy that we chose this provider who took care of all the details from arrival to departure.
combo	Our driver, Douglas, did an absolutely amazing job.
combo	He was very helpful and always went that extra mile to make sure that we were getting the most out of our experience.
combo	We did 4 days Uganda and 3 days Rwanda and I would urge you, if possible, to spend more time in each.... just so much to see.
combo	Really enjoyed the action packed simian tracking and the adventures in Jinja - not to be missed.
combo	Gorillas!
combo	YAAAASSSSSS!"
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa did a great job of coming up with a custom itinerary for us.
combo	We arrived in Kampala, spent some time in Jinja whitewater rafting and horseback riding, then drove across Uganda (with stops & safaris along the way), ending in Rwanda to see the gorillas in Volcanoes NP.
combo	Our guide Douglas was fantastic and made our trip smooth and very enjoyable.
combo	We did not need to worry about a single detail because Douglas took care of everything.
combo	He did a great job of customizing the itinerary when we were there and keeping us on schedule.
combo	It was a fantastic trip and I highly recommend that anyone going to Uganda and Rwanda books with Gorilla Trek Africa (and requests Douglas as their guide!).
combo	We did choose ""luxury"" accommodations and definitely think it was worth the splurge."
combo	"Nelson did an amazing job creating the itinerary that met our needs.
combo	Any concerns we had re accommodation, safety and border crossings were completely unfounded.
combo	The accommodations at Gorilla Lodge in Rwanda and Chameleon Hills in Bwindi were exceptional with Chameleon Lodge and its view over Lake Mutunda stunning and surreal.
combo	The treks were great in both Rwanda and Bwindi with Bwindi being physically harder - you need gators and gloves for both which you can hire at $5 USD a pair.
combo	But be prepared for a steep 2 hr trek.
combo	Interactions on both treks breathtaking.
combo	For my friend and I travelling what made our 4 days unique was our guide Gavis.
combo	He was punctual, warm, friendly, accomodating (taking us to markets, roadside stalls, interacting with local villagers and kids so we got a bit more of a genuine experience) whilst making us feel safe and secure the whole time.
combo	He was knowledgable and really just a lot of fun.
combo	So would totally recommend him.
combo	Be warned if you do the cultural village trip in Rwanda they make you dress up like African kings and queens and have your tribe dance and sing etc which really isn't my thing but it's still a interesting experience.
combo	So in conclusion book via gorilla trek Africa and ask for Gavis.
combo	Hope to be back soon!!!!!"
combo	"Highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa - we did a 2 day Trek from Kigali, Rwanda (because we couldn't get any permits in Rwanda last minute) to Bwindi National Park.
combo	Nelson set everything up - we had a little glitch with our rooms but a quick call to Nelson and we achieved an amicable resolution.
combo	He is very responsive throughout the process.
combo	Asaph was our driver and he, too, shared a lot of information about Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The actual trek was a challenge physically but one I would do again in a heart beat - got to find a family of 18 gorillas including 3 large silverbacks.
combo	Amazing experience!"
combo	"This has been a life long dream of mine to see the gorillas.
combo	My husband and I knew we wanted to make this a part of our round the world trip itinerary, but only had limited time in the area due to budget and timeline.
combo	After some extensive research, I selected this trek due to the great reviews and the convenience of offering a 1 day trek from Kigali.
combo	I couldn't be happier about this decision!
combo	Everything from my initial questions about the tour to the booking and finalizing of our tour details were quickly addressed and handled by Nelson, the tour organizer.
combo	He was very responsive and knowledgable about all aspects of this trek.
combo	We also must commend our driver Enos who was absolutely amazing.
combo	He went above and beyond to make our experience truly memorable.
combo	We learned so much about the beautiful country of Rwanda from him.
combo	I cannot speak highly enough about this company and the wonderful memories they created for my husband and I."
combo	"What an amazing experience!
combo	Nicholas was very helpful during the planning phase.
combo	Our driver and guide was Chris who did a great job.
combo	He was very informative and accommodating.
combo	The drive out to Volcanoes National Park was breath taking and the accommodation and food near the park was really good.
combo	The hike up to where the gorillas live was very strenuous and not for the faint of heart.
combo	If your hiking abilities are not strong, then the park guides can put you on an easier hike where they know the gorillas may be at a lower level.
combo	The one hour spent with our gorilla group is something that will stay with me forever.
combo	Sitting down just a few meters away from a 600 pound silver back is beyond words!!
combo	Kudos to Gorilla Trek Africa for creating this wonderful experience."
combo	"We booked a three-day trek out of Kigali to see the mountain gorillas and Lake Kivu, and we could not have been more delighted with Gorilla Trek.
combo	From the moment we made our first inquiry, Nelson was tremendously helpful.
combo	Our desired itinerary didn't exactly match the three-day tour that Gorilla Trek described on the website.
combo	No matter - Nelson quickly came up with an alternative itinerary that worked perfectly and got us to see everything we wanted to see.
combo	Payment was easy and straightforward, and we were very thankful to have Nelson sort through the details of arranging permits and lodge stays and everything else.
combo	All of the accommodations were excellent.
combo	We stayed at the Mountain View Gorilla Lodge next to Volcanoes National Park, and the Serena Lake Kivu, both of which were beautiful.
combo	Gorilla Trek took care of all the bills and we weren't bothered at all.
combo	Finally, a word about our absolutely tremendous guide Gavis.
combo	Gavis was punctual, polite, funny and engaging for the whole tour.
combo	He went out of his way to ensure we had a fulfilling trip, trying to give us as full a view of Rwanda as he could.
combo	He was a perfect fit for us and we had a blast with him.
combo	An excellent driver, he always made sure we felt comfortable while also giving us insight into daily Rwandan life.
combo	If you get a chance to have a tour with Gavis, we absolutely recommend him."
combo	"We were privileged to meet not one but two troops of gorillas on our day trek in the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	The day started early (7am) when we arrived at the reception centre in order to submit our passes and passports to the officials for verification.
combo	This can be something of a lengthy process and so whilst we were waiting we enjoyed complementary coffee and spectacular local dancers who entertained us.
combo	We were eventually allocated a guide and a troop of gorillas to visit.
combo	Mr D, our guide, was very knowledgeable and we felt very safe in his hands.
combo	We travelled to the start point where we were given walking poles and chose our porters and set off.
combo	As the trek is at altitude the pace was gentle with plenty of stops to get our breath and no pressure.
combo	He was happy to go at a slower pace so that even those who were not in the peak of fitness could achieve the goal of meeting the gorillas.
combo	Before entering the forest we were given a full briefing on how to behave, what to do and what not to do in order to have a safe and fulfilling experience.
combo	We walked for some hours through quite dense undergrowth and did not always follow any path.
combo	The guides used machetes to forge a path through the vegetation and we were very much off any beaten track.
combo	The porters were very helpful helping us over difficult bits of terrain and guiding us on the best routes and I would definitely recommend hiring them.
combo	We found two troops of gorillas, two silverbacks, plenty of mothers with babies and black backs and were able to get up very close to them.
combo	The younger silverback was challenging the older one and we saw them coming together to fight which we were told was not normally something that trekkers would see.
combo	There was even the rather clichéd chest drumming afterwards as the victor pronounced himself the winner!
combo	We trekked for some hours as our troop was on the move and walked over 16kms.
combo	Tips for a successful trek - wear full trousers and walking boots; wear a light waterproof coat which fully covers your body and take gloves.
combo	The stinging nettles are over head height and pack a mighty sting and it is difficult to avoid them brushing against you.
combo	If the guide yells ants yell ants to the person behind and move very quickly past them!
combo	Engage a local guide to hold your hand and help over the dodgy bits - it also provides local employment.
combo	Take dollars with you to tip the trackers and guides.
combo	The trackers you only meet once inside the park and they don't follow you back to base - its not cool to say you have no money!!"
combo	"My family had the pleasure of visiting the gorillas in Rwanda in the last week of August 2016.
combo	Top marks to our guide - Bernard, the gorilla's and the country of Rwanda - clean & safe to visit.
combo	Bill Jarman"
combo	"THE TOUR We went on a 10 day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa which started in Kigali and finished in Kampala.
combo	The van was very comfortable.
combo	It looked a little bit old but it was seemed well maintained and was even quickly checked out on our journey.
combo	We were the only two people on the tour.
combo	WILD LIFE The gorillas were were a once in a lifetime treat and worth every penny of the permit.
combo	We did it in Rwanda and although the trek wasn't quite as steep as in Uganda it can be slightly longer as you can't start from multiple point along the road as in Bwindi.
combo	I would also recommend getting to the country a few days before the trek if you can as it went above 3000 meter and would have been easier with a bit of acclimatization.
combo	We then went up into Uganda and visited Bwindi National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park and Murchison Falls along the way.
combo	The wildlife was spectacular everywhere and detailed information is easily available over the web.
combo	The only slight disappointment was only seeing one chimpanzee in Kibale which was very high in a tree.
combo	This is because it is was the dry season so much harder to find them.
combo	Obviously this is nobodies fault and it is worth keeping in mind that you pay for the chance to see wild animals and you cannot predict the outcome.
combo	The rhino sanctuary was a brilliant experience and truly unique being on foot so close to three rhinos.
combo	The price of all the permits does add up but it's worth remembering the money is going towards the conservation projects!
combo	We stayed in the budget accommodation but we're lucky to get a couple of upgrades.
combo	It was some of the best accommodation I've stayed in and we were extremely happy with the standard the whole way round.
combo	Our guide Bernard was a true professional and very knowledgable about flora and fauna.
combo	He really was superb at his job and a kind, interesting person.
combo	He did the little things really well like buying us local snacks and drinks on the way around and explaining local life.
combo	You can get equivalent itineraries and vehicles from other countries but there is only one Bernard.
combo	He took our trip to the next level which is why I gave a five star rating for this company."
combo	"Pre-trip service: - We corresponded with Nicholas initially and with Nelson when Nicholas was not around.
combo	Both were very prompt and helpful in giving information and giving us a quote for the trip.
combo	Information provided was to the point and complete with packing lists, etc.
combo	There was a moment of anxiety for one individual in our group of 3 when his receipt for the deposit placed with Rwanda Development Board had only his first name and not full name.
combo	Nelson assured us that this would not be a problem as it was only the receipt and not the permit and that they have given the full names and passport numbers to the RDB.
combo	Indeed there was no problems at all.
combo	On-trip: - Our guide was supposed to be Eric; we had asked for him after reading reviews although Nicholas had told us that all their guides were very good.
combo	Nelson advised with apologies at the last minute that due to some personal problems he wouldn't be able to come and our guide would be Enos instead.
combo	Enos is a great guide; very punctual, patient and professional with fluent English and most importantly with so much charm, humility and politeness.
combo	His calm but confident demeanour put us at ease from the very beginning.
combo	We were super impressed by his nuanced answers to our queries and he, at our request gave us a Rwanda genocide 101 - the context of the madness and how it built up to what it was starting over a 100 years ago.
combo	There were 3 of us and on the 2nd day in Volcanoes National Park, one of us was doing the gorilla trek the 2nd time and two of us were going to do the golden monkey trek.
combo	And we had to go in different directions to two different starting points.
combo	Enos was very resourceful and ensured that we reached our destinations in time.
combo	I also need to mention that Enos was very sensitive to every one of our individual needs and ensured that all of us had a great time.
combo	Trip Itself: - We went to Akagera National Park where we did a boat ride and a game drive the next day.
combo	Lovely experience not because the animals were very close by (except for the zebras, buffaloes and impalas, topis) but because of the solitude.
combo	It was like it was just the 5 of us (3 of us, Enos and the park ranger Didier), the wide savannah and the animals.
combo	The silence in such a large place with so many animals was complete!
combo	We had a good time spotting animals which were generally far away for most of the drive but in the end we came to a huge plain which had a lot of zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, topis etc.
combo	We also got to see two herds of elephants but they were pretty far.
combo	The Volcanoes National Park is a beautiful place with the misty mountains peaks and the jungles.
combo	We had a great time on the gorilla visit - the apes were very close by so we had good views and it was the same for the golden monkey visit.
combo	Both the treks through the dense jungles of central/east Africa were very enjoyable and unique experiences.
combo	I am not writing much about the gorillas because they are widely covered elsewhere and this is a review about the tour company.
combo	Overall - Very impressed by Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We had found them from the TripAdvisor reviews and they are #1 amongst 26 tour companies doing the gorilla trekking in Africa and it is totally justified.
combo	Booking directly with Gorilla Trek Africa is highly recommended.
combo	They also have another website by another name (i forget the name); the reason is nothing other than to increase reach.
combo	Thanks to Nelson, Nicholas and Enos for a wonderful experience.
combo	If we do the gorilla trek or Akagera National Park again, I am going to use this company."
combo	"I have done yesterday the gorilla trek and has been a great experience.the organization was perfect,my email communication with Nelson was always clear and quick.
combo	My guide Gavis was number one,very professional,friendly and ready to satisfy my needs,i was very lucky to find him as guide.I recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and Gavis for this wonderful experience.
combo	U."
combo	A truly memorable once in a lifetime experience to trek the mountain gorillas in East Africa.
combo	We chose Gorilla Trek Africa based on the reviews we'd read on Trip Advisor and they delivered everything we expected and more.
combo	Like everyone we were a bit nervous about sending a large deposit in advance but it was not a problem.
combo	Nelson did a great job organizing our tour and I was thrilled to get the chance to meet him and thank him personally at the start of our trip.
combo	From the start everything was fantastic.
combo	Accommodation and food were outstanding and the wildlife was truly amazing.
combo	Walking with chimps in Kibale forest was a great prelude to viewing the gorillas twice in Bwindi NP and Volcanoes NP.
combo	I would recommend you do both if you can.
combo	They are different but equally amazing.
combo	I was moved to tears at both viewings.
combo	A real once in a lifetime experience.
combo	The other thing that made our 7 day trip so wonderful was our outstanding guide Patrick.
combo	What a terrific guide and just an overall great person.
combo	Extremely knowledgeable and always trying to do that extra bit to make our tour as good as possible.
combo	His great sense of humour added so much to our experience.
combo	Thank you so much Patrick.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa gets a 100% rating.
combo	I would strongly recommend Nelson and his team to anyone thinking about undertaking such an amazing adventure.
combo	"I recently traveled from Kigali to Bwindi Forest as a solo female traveler.
combo	I can honestly say every part of this company is a 10!
combo	From the email dialog with Nelson to my amazing hospitable guide, Sam.
combo	They went above and beyond with customer service, knowledge, communication etc - everything is so buttoned up!
combo	I highly recommend using this company!
combo	My tour was from Kigali to Bwindi Forest to see the gorillas - the drive is beautiful, the local markets are a must, and the beauty of Rwanda & Uganda is truly out of this world.
combo	Please don't have any reservations if you are a solo traveler - I felt so safe at all times!
combo	The locals are so friendly and curious - be sure to interact with them!
combo	Not going to lie - the hike in Bwindi was tougher then I expected, but SOOO worth it.
combo	It's truly magical in this part of the world.
combo	Thank you Nelson for EVERYTHING!!!!!!!"
combo	"I did the 2 day gorilla tour in Uganda and it was truly an experience of a lifetime.
combo	My colleagues in Kigali had already signed up with another outfit so I reached out to Gorilla Trek Africa based on the ratings in TripAdvisor.
combo	Nelson responded very promptly and since I had never done this in the past, I had lots of questions.
combo	Nelson answered all of them very promptly.
combo	I choose the Deluxe Package and I am very satisfied with my choice.
combo	Nelson was also very accommodating when I wasn't able to transfer the money before I left the States.
combo	In fact I paid up fully on the day of the tour and he made sure that my reservation wasn't impacted.
combo	On the appointed day Krish my driver and overall guide showed up promptly at my hotel in Kigali.
combo	I cannot say enough good things about Krish.
combo	He is extremely knowledgeable about Rwanda and Uganda and patiently answered all my questions.
combo	He really is a decent and humble person who gave me the confidence that I was in good hands all through.
combo	He is also a very good driver who obeyed all speed limit restrictions and did nothing risky.
combo	The unpaved roads at times can seem dangerous, but with Krish behind the wheel, they never felt that way even once.
combo	The vehicle provided by GTA was clean, powerful and perfect for the all the rough roads that we encountered (""African massage"" per Krish :-) ).
combo	He was also very attentive and made sure that I was well taken care off at the lodge and during the journey.
combo	made arrangements for me at the Bwindi Jungle Lodge.
combo	I was satisfied with the living arrangements.
combo	The lodge is located on the shore of Lake Mulehe.
combo	The lodge arranged for a boat trip on the lake (not included in the package) that I really enjoyed.
combo	The gorilla trek itself was a tough but exhilarating experience.
combo	It was no doubt hard work but truly worth it.
combo	It was done primarily with conservation at the ultimate goal and I really appreciated this.
combo	The tourism money goes towards protecting the gorillas' natural habitat as well as for providing a source of livelihood to the residents of the area thereby providing a disincentive for poaching.
combo	I did my best to use as many services (porter, etc.
combo	offered by the forest authorities even if I didn't really need them.
combo	The fees are very modest ($15 for a porter) but go a long way towards ensuring meaningful employment to the locals.
combo	At no point did it feel like a highly commercial operation.
combo	It took us nearly 6.5 hours of hiking and it definitely requires more than an average level of fitness.
combo	There was a lot of climbing involved.
combo	Of course, the amount one hikes and the terrain is very dependent on the location of the gorilla family, so on certain days it might takes only a couple of hours.
combo	To summarize, I HIGHLY recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and Krish in particular.
combo	I plan on returning to Uganda in the future with my family and I will definitely engage Gorilla Trek Africa wherever possible.
combo	A gentle suggestion: Folks, be as generous as possible with your tips.
combo	Everyone I interacted with during my 2 days was very sincere and genuinely wanted to make sure I was comfortable.
combo	A little bit goes a long way and provides a living to the locals which in turn ensures that these lovely animals continue to have a home."
combo	Went on this activity while visiting Rwanda.
combo	It was an amazing experience.
combo	We got really close to the gorillas which was totally magical.
combo	It is very expensive but the cost goes towards maintaining the National Park so is going to a good cause.
combo	There are a number of gorilla groups and you are allocated to one group.
combo	A ranger takes you there and you are met by trackers who live near the gorillas and who know where they are on any particular day.
combo	"INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE IN A TOTALLY WELCOMING COUNTRY.... My friend and I were so pleasantly surprised how safe and friendly Uganda and Rwanda was.
combo	As an American, I think there's always a bit of apprehension when traveling so far away.
combo	I would say, however that I have never felt so comfortable, safe and welcome in a country more than in Uganda.
combo	We did a lot of driving from location to location in sometimes very remote areas.
combo	As we did, lots of children and adults on the street would smile, get excited to see us and wave hello enthusiastically as we passed.
combo	I have never experienced this in any country.
combo	Also, anywhere we stopped, people were so polite and friendly.
combo	It was really a joy to mingle with locals anywhere we stopped.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was equally as welcoming, friendly, informative, and helpful with all of our planning.
combo	I was communicating with Nelson throughout the entire process.
combo	I had MANY questions as I wanted to make sure we experienced as much as possible while there.
combo	He was extremely patient and answered all of my questions with much detail.
combo	I believe we also got a lot for the price and the accommodations were really perfect.
combo	We had cottages in 2 of the locations ...one was with a view of a beautiful lake and the other was overlooking the savanna.
combo	The staff at each hotel couldn't have been more lovely.
combo	We also were in communication with Gorilla Trek Africa's American contact, so it was nice to also be able to hear someone's voice in the communication for this planning process.
combo	We did the Behind the Scens Tour at the Entebbe Zoo which I would highly recommend.
combo	You are able to go behind the gates and feed by hand elephants, giraffes, leopards and lions and for an extra cost, you can also play with cheetahs.
combo	We also did the Chimpanzee Close Up where you have about one hour to play with 5 chimpanzee babies.
combo	Definitely an experience of a lifetime.
combo	Last but not least, I would have to say our guide, William Lutchi, really made our experience the best it could have been.
combo	William was so knowledgable.
combo	There was not a question we asked about the country, animals or the people that he didn't know the answer to.
combo	We discussed politics, the Rwandan Genoicide, economy, really lots of different subjects as my friend and I were very curious about how this country seemed so well organized and prepared for tourism.
combo	I was amazed at the landscape of Uganda as its major export is agriculture.
combo	All of the driving gave us great views of different types of crops aranged in an orderly, almost picturesque fashion.
combo	William made us feel totally at ease everywhere we went.
combo	With his guidance, we were able to view all of the animals we set out to see on the game drives.
combo	The day of our Gorilla Trek in Uganda went off perfectly as well.
combo	We told William of our stamina level and he helped us be put into the correct group for the trek.
combo	We hiked into the forest for about 1.5 hours until we came upon the amazing site of a huge silverback in front of us.
combo	We walked just a few feet more to see another silverback, 2 babies, and 4 females.
combo	We were immediately at ease with these gorgeous creatures.
combo	One hour with them, you felt that you were definitely such a fortunate person to have experienced this activity that only a hundred or s people per day in the world get to experience.
combo	I have traveled to over 70 countries and I would definitely recommend Uganda and Rwanda as ones that everyone should put on their lists!!!
combo	And to defintely have Gorilla Trek Africa organize the planning !!"
combo	"I did this with 3 friends and we all agree seeing the gorillas was truly surreal and magical.
combo	Nelson and his team were great on the ground, and made the whole process of booking from another country seamless.
combo	Kigali was a huge surprise and we enjoyed it thoroughly.
combo	All the smiling children and friendly disposition of the locals, as well as the remarkable cleanliness of the city itself, made our trip extra special.
combo	A difficult morning visiting the Genocide Memorial, but important for people to know and remember."
combo	"The Gorillas that are protected by the Dian Fossy Foundation and the work they do with the government for the local people, schools etc is amazing.
combo	The trek itself can be a rough go at it, but totally worth the energy, sweat and money.
combo	The porters who charge $10 for the trip carry your things...hire them if you need them or not...they help you when you trip on roots, vines etc...they are poachers that are being retrained to do this to provide for their families.
combo	We had a gentleman at our lodge with lung issues and they carried him up on a straw mat, so he could still see the Gorillas even though he was only part of the way up.
combo	The trek can last anywhere from a couple of hours to 5 depending where your Gorilla Troop is located.
combo	You get to stay and watch, photograph and just plain enjoy them for one hour.
combo	If you get the chance do the Golden Monkeys.
combo	A little calmer walk but also a grand experience."
combo	"Trip was great - gorillas, golden monkeys, etc.
combo	Logistics were very well handled with no issues at all.
combo	I highly recommend"
combo	"One of the most exciting and must do experience, they should extend the time which you stay with Gorilla from one hour to at least to 2 hours"
combo	"It's expensive, $750 a day in 2016.
combo	But, it's worth every penny.
combo	You'll be within 15 feet of the gorillas and observe them eating, grooming one another and playing.
combo	You should sign up for two days to make certain you have a good experience.
combo	You'll want to make sure you have ample time visiting with them.
combo	Once you find a gorilla family you are allotted one hour to be with them.
combo	That's it That's why I recommend you sign up for two days.
combo	They're frightening at first but you'll soon find everyone inches closer to take a better photo.
combo	I inadvertently was in the path of a gorilla and as he walked by he put his arm around my leg.
combo	No problem.
combo	He just wanted to pass and acknowledged I was there.
combo	Have fun!!
combo	It's one of the best trips I've every taken."
combo	"If you want a trustworthy and professional company to handle your travel needs while on safari, then look no further.
combo	We did the 3 day gorilla tracking safari in Rwanda and had a great time overall.
combo	Some of our luggage actually got lost on the way to Kigali which held us up quite a bit at the airport.
combo	Fortunately our guide (Asaph) was still waiting for us, and then was helpful over the next day or so in helping us locate the bags.
combo	For the gorilla trek, we had told him what our level of comfort was with trekking and he got us set up in the perfect group, and we then proceeded to have an experience of a lifetime with the gorillas.
combo	We also visited the Ib'iwachu Cultural Village, did the golden monkey trek, and took the city tour of Kigali (including visiting the Genocide Memorial).
combo	I'm always skeptical of cultural villages since some can be overly cheesy, but we absolutely loved Ib'iwachu, so if you have time in your schedule I would definitely recommend that.
combo	The golden monkeys are a blast to watch, but are certainly trickier than the gorillas to photograph, but I would still recommend those as well.
combo	In Kigali, you'd be a fool to not visit the Genocide Memorial, so try and allow a few hours for that.
combo	Overall, I appreciated that this company had a flexible itinerary that can more or less be customized on the spot (beyond the main trekking activities), but at times things seemed a bit too slow paced for our style of travel.
combo	We weren't offered the option of a boxed lunch on any of the days, so I would recommend inquiring about that if you're looking to save some time (or have something to eat during the gorilla trek in the event that it takes a while to find the gorillas).
combo	I expressed my concerns to the company and they were very courteous in listening to my suggestions (again, wonderful professionalism), so my recommendation would just be to discuss everything with the driver upon arriving in town so that everybody is on the same page.
combo	Overall, a lovely experience with a nice company that I would certainly recommend."
combo	"Had a great experience with Gorilla Trek Africa 3-4 of July.
combo	Pick-up in Kigali by very nice driver Gavis, smooth and informative drive to Volcanoes and attentive assistance througout the trip.
combo	Unfortunately I hurt my knee the day before the trek and got a lot of help and sympathy from Gavis, who even went to a nearby village ti buy some bandage for me.
combo	With help from 2 strong porters I made it up to the unforgettable gorillas.
combo	I am very happy with Gorilla Trek Africa and would recommend this company to anyone who wants to vivit the mountaingorillas."
combo	"I'm so pleased I chose this company to plan my three day trek in Rwanda.
combo	My driver, Bernard promptly picked me up at my hotel in Kigali.
combo	He was my personal guide for three days, and he was extremely professional, informative, and conscientious of every detail.
combo	He took me to the caves for a tour, made sure I was completely ready for the trekking experience, explained every detail, and was so pleasant to visit with.
combo	The gorilla trek was a great experience and a memory of a lifetime.
combo	The golden monkey tour was also very good.
combo	I can't say enough about how highly I recommend this company for trekking or any of their other tours in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Bernard made the experience so relaxing and enjoyable.
combo	As a single traveler, it was a real pleasure getting to know him and hearing about his family and life in Africa.
combo	I hope to return with my family in the next year or so and I will hire this company again for sure."
combo	"I used this group on recommendation from a friend that used them.
combo	So happy I did.
combo	Chris was my guide and was very knowledgeable, nice, and all around great.
combo	Nelson did a fantastic job of actually understanding what I wanted to do (instead of blindly offering prior packages like other groups).
combo	I used them for gorilla tracking in Uganda and volcano climb in Rwanda.
combo	They organized hotels, cars, all permits, and did so without flaw.
combo	I plan to contact them in the future for trekking the Central Circuit, fishing for Nile Perch, and all the other good trips I have on my wish list!"
combo	"Nothing could have prepared my husband and I and our adult son and our friend for this kind of adventure.
combo	It needs to be on everyone's bucket list!
combo	We were unbelievably up close and personal with a 19 member family of gorillas in perhaps the most lush and beautiful surroundings I have ever seen.
combo	The animals were amusing and active and curious and aloof all at the same time.
combo	I would never have imagined I would feel no fear but it's true.
combo	You just get so carried away with the wonder of it all.
combo	You feel complete confidence in your guides and trackers.
combo	They give you lots of pertinent information that helps you know how to react to the gorillas in a way to stay safe and comfortable.
combo	The hiking aspect is pretty tricky at times as the pathway is sometimes created as you go.
combo	That makes it even more interesting and fun to be fully immersed in this natural wonderland.
combo	Porters are there at the onset to help carry backpacks etc.
combo	and they are very attentive on the initial parts of the hike where you might need assistance.
combo	Once you find the gorillas the porters take your walking sticks and bags and wait for your return to the original trail so you are free to move more freely as you follow the gorillas into whatever environments they choose!
combo	Our guides were very personable and knowledgeable and they set the tone for a totally positive and exciting experience.
combo	I kept asking myself, ""who gets to do this kind of thing"" and I was thrilled beyond belief when my answer was ""some of those I love"" and ""me!"""
combo	"In all our years of travel and experiencing many different attractions, this was far and away the most incredible!
combo	Our guide, Patrick was absolutely superb - even though we were in close proximity to the gorillas, including the silverback, we never ever felt threatened or in danger.
combo	We put this down to Patrick's skill as a gorilla ""whisperer"".
combo	A special thanks also to our porter, Bernard who took great care to ensure our belongings and us personally made it up and down the mountain through a jungle landscape.
combo	Even though it is expensive at $750 USD per person, it as worth every penny and money well spent.
combo	This is not a cheap trip especially when factoring the cost of a car up to the Virunga's and back to Kigali but you will never ever forget the experience.
combo	Tip - we found it very useful to donate our hiking boots, leather garden gloves and some articles of clothing to the porters and trackers...also lightens your suitcase."
combo	"It is an extremely difficult trek that requires high degree of physical fitness.
combo	Usually it takes 6 to 7 hrs.
combo	The guides are very nice.
combo	Worth hiring porters.
combo	Awesome experience, being with gorillas."
combo	"One of the best wildlife encounters in the World and certainly the best we have made.
combo	The guides are absolutely brilliant and do their utmost to ensure that everyone is totally satisfied with their tracking expedition.
combo	I would visit again in a heartbeat if I had the time, the money and no other places yet to be seen.
combo	It is totally worth going but would suggest that you make an effort to gain a reasonable level of fitness.
combo	That is, can you walk on undulating ground for at least one hour without stopping, two hours would be more than enough.
combo	Do it!"
combo	"From the beginning Nelson was very prompt and patient responding to all our emails and answering numerous questions we had .
combo	Payment was also straight forward and had no issues.
combo	We had a fantastic trip with Gorilla Tours, traveling from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park to Nyungwe Rainforest.
combo	Our driver and guide, Enos was wonderful.
combo	He was always very prompt, kind and courteous.He truly went above and beyond in all aspects.
combo	In addition to being a terrific and safe driver, he was a fantastic guide as well.
combo	He went out of his way to make sure we were informed of the history, significance, and meaning behind various sights and experiences.
combo	Not only was our trip enjoyable, it was truly a learning experience.
combo	His level of knowledge about the political and social history of Rwanda, and the East African region in general, made for very fascinating conversations.
combo	His friendliness and willingness to share his experiences and insight made even 7 hour drives fly by!
combo	Even though Lake Kivu wasn't on our itinerary Enos made sure we stopped and had lunch overlooking the lake as he knew we were very interested in viewing it.
combo	We would highly recommend them."
combo	"Climbing to where the gorillas is a good hike uphill.
combo	Slippery after a rain.
combo	If you are not in shape, like me, get a helper.
combo	Amazing how close you are to the animals as you view them for about an hour."
combo	"I just returned from a 2-day gorilla trek in Rwanda.
combo	It was a great experience and everything went wonderfully with close exposure to the gorillas.
combo	Chris Ngabirano did a truly great job as my guide on behalf of the company.
combo	He picked me up promptly at my hotel in Kigali.
combo	After some time at the Genocide Memorial museum he drove me to the park area and the lodge for the night.
combo	Then the next day to the consolidation point where the groups are formed and you hike in with a park guide(s) to where the trackers have identified your gorilla family to be.
combo	After return from that wonderful experience, a shower, lunch, and drive by Chris to the Kigali airport.
combo	Chris and I had long and very enjoyable conversations on the rides back and forth -- he is a wonderful driver and extremely knowledgeable about all things Ugandan (where he lives and also works) and Rwandan, as well as the biology and conservation side.
combo	I strongly recommend him as well as the company, where my emails of inquiry and planning were always answered very promptly and well."
combo	"My wife and I made the trip to Africa for our 1 year anniversary.
combo	we started in Kenya with an amazing safari adventure.
combo	thinking there was no way we would top that we headed to Rwanda and boy was I wrong... First off our communication with Nicolas over email was fantastic.
combo	he was quick to get back to us and answered all our questions which were a lot and really made us feel good about booking through them.
combo	Here comes the most important part.
combo	Enos our driver picked us up at our hotel in Kigali at 9am sharp and he is what made this trip the experience that it was.
combo	In my wifes words he was one of the smartest people she had ever met and that was no exaggeration.
combo	He was a wealth of knowledge whether is was about the history of Rwanda and the genocide of 94 to the neighboring countries to the gorillas themselves.
combo	He would talk to us in great detail over a meal on any subject and you'd walk away feeling a better and smarter person for it.
combo	he took us on a city tour of Kigali which turned out to be a highlight as we learned so much.
combo	We went to two genocide memorials and although sad it was so powerful and educational.
combo	Everyone should have a better understanding of what happened in Rwanda just a short time ago and appreciate how far they have come.
combo	It really is astounding.
combo	After our city tour and lunch we headed out to Volcanos National Park.
combo	try not to fall asleep on the drive.
combo	The sights and views are stunning!
combo	So lush and green.
combo	We got to our accomodations(Gorilla Mountain Lodge) we got settled in and had dinner with Enos who explained in detail how the next day would go.
combo	after a quick breakfast we head out to the ranger station where Enos goes and pulls his strings to get you in the best group and guide.
combo	we told him we would hike as long or short and were more interested in the best experience with the Gorillas.
combo	on our first day he got us in a group with only 1 other person, a fantastic guide whos name is Edward and I recommend him highly.
combo	Enos drove us to the hikes start point where he waits for you to return.
combo	the first day we had about a 40 minute hike through lush jungle till we came upon our trackers(means your close) and a few minutes later we were among the Umubamo group.
combo	What an experience!
combo	cant explain and don't want to.
combo	its something you need to experience for yourself.
combo	We saw all 12 members and ill just say the hour was magical.
combo	hiked back down where Enos was eagerly awaiting us.
combo	Took us back to the lodge where we showered us and had lunch while staff was cleaning our hiking boots to like new condition and the Enos took us on a drive to an amazing view of the Twin Lakes.
combo	just beautiful.
combo	back to lodge for a nice dinner and sleep cause we did two days gorilla trekking.
combo	the 2nd day went like the first and Enos was sure to get us a different experience.
combo	this time we trekked through a bamboo forest which was amazing and completely different from the day before.
combo	we had a larger group but that was ok because we saw a gorilla family that had 24 members!
combo	We thought we couldn't top the day before.
combo	well, we did and then some.
combo	it was amazing.
combo	The babies put on a show for the cameras, the silverback sat there proud and in charge and the teens played the whole time.
combo	They get a little tipsy from eating the bamboo.
combo	after getting cleaned up and having lunch Enos took us to a cultural center where we spent a few hours interactively learning about their history.
combo	We played drums, danced, shot arrows, and even dressed as king and queen.
combo	quite a day!
combo	the last day we trekked the Golden Monkeys which were very cool and to all our surprise and the guides we stumbled upon a small family of mountain gorillas and spent a little time seeing them.
combo	So we got 3 days for the price of 2!!!
combo	back for lunch and one more boot cleaning and Enos took us on our drive back to the airport.
combo	He stipped by a local bookstore because we wanted a book about the genocide he recommended(shaking hands with the devil) and while there we decided to buy Enos a book since he is such an avid reader and he was just thrilled and we were happy to do it.
combo	after a sad goodbye at the airport we headed home and will carry the memories of our time in Rwanda for the rest of our lives.
combo	I cant say enough about Gorilla Trek Africa and to Enos, words cant express the gratitude we have.
combo	You are the best and you have made friends for life.
combo	Dave and Nadia PS- Be sure to bring enough cash for tips.
combo	Trackers, guides, and your driver.
combo	Porters are $10 for the duration of your trek and will carry your stuff and help you if needed.
combo	they are often reformed poacher so its good to use them."
combo	"Unreal experience with gorillas in their natural habitat, playing, climbing and mainly eating.
combo	There was a bit of a trek to do before we saw the group but was well worth the wait.
combo	Beautiful views of landscape from the hills.
combo	This could turn in to a full on Hike so be prepared with Water, food, walking boots, clothing to protect you from nettles (hands, arms and legs).
combo	Our Hike took over 7 hours all together but others i know only took 1 hour"
combo	"2016年5月にブウィンディ国立公園のゴリラツアーとニーラゴンゴ火山ツアーをセットで利用しました。ゴリラツアーでは、私たちのグループは森の中に入って30分ほどで、15頭ほどの群れと会うことができました。ゴリラたちは全く人を怖がる様子がなく、時々私たちのほうを見ながらずっと食事をしていました。（とてもお上品に！）毎朝レンジャーさんたちが、ゴリラの群れがどこにいるか探しているので、会えないことはないそうです。人はゴリラから７ｍ以上離れなければいけないルールがあるのですが、ゴリラはそんなルールを知らないのでお構いなしに近づいてきます。素晴らしい時間を過ごせました。ゴリラツアーの持ち物は、ツアー会社から事前に連絡してくれました。ガイドのクリスさんはとても優しい方で、ゆっくり丁寧な英語を話してくださりました。安心してツアーに参加することができました。 I took part in Gorilla tracking tour in Bwindi NP and Nyiragongo volcano tour in May 2016.
combo	On the Gorilla tour, I entered the forest and was able to meet about 15 Gorilla party 30 min later.
combo	They didn’t look afraid of person and were eating all the time elegantly by their hands!
combo	The rangers are looking for where Gorilla parties are every morning, so we can meet Gorillas any time.
combo	Human have the rule that must keep 7m from Gorillas.
combo	But, Gorillas don’t know such rule and came close to me!
combo	I was able to spent very very valuable time.
combo	Our guide Chris are very kind and has good hospitality.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"From answering my emails to arranging my permit and actually going on the trek, I got great service.
combo	I picked the company more or less at random off the internet, and was pleased with the attention.
combo	I was in Kigali for business and didn't have much free time, so a 1-day gorilla trek was just right for me.
combo	They picked me up at 4:30 am and drove me to the Trek starting point, and shuttled me to each stage of the Trek until arriving back at the hotel some 12 hours later.
combo	There are lots of blogs and posts describing the Gorilla Trek experience, so I won't belabor the point.
combo	But the key pieces of advice I found useful: take hiking boots, especially in the rainy seasons; bring dollars or other western currency to tip everyone (guides, porters, park rangers, the guy with the buffalo gun, etc.
combo	), and bring bug spray with DEET."
combo	"I was very impressed with the interaction with the office when booking.
combo	Fast, professional and reliable.
combo	The guide picking up in Kigali was equally competent so I was very happy having chosen this company for my tour."
combo	"I chose Gorilla Trek Africa for my recent trip to Rwanda because of a review I saw on TripAdvisor from a Solo Female Traveler.
combo	I met a traveler in Rwanda who chose Gorilla Trek Africa because she too read the same review.
combo	I've been wanting to see the gorillas for 10 years so I emailed Gorilla Trek Africa to inquire.
combo	Nicholas responded quickly and we emailed back and forth daily for almost two weeks, then when needed thereafter.
combo	He answered all my questions and I kept him informed of my progress.
combo	The one thing I made sure he had before booking my flight was my gorilla permit.
combo	He sent me a packing list that contains the visa information along with payment details to help with my planning.
combo	I added a 3-day vacation to Rwanda to the back end of my two-week business trip so I had to get everything in order before getting on a plane, otherwise I'm screwed while abroad.
combo	There were two hiccups on my trip.
combo	The first was Nicholas gave me the wrong number for my guide/driver David.
combo	Luckily, he was waiting for me at the Kigali airport and had a sign with my name.
combo	I did ask David for his number just in case.
combo	The second was when I checked in to one of the hotels but they couldn't find my reservation.
combo	David quickly straighten out the confusion.
combo	Once I was in David's company, he took care of everything.
combo	He was very nice and always made sure I was doing okay.
combo	On the morning of the gorilla trekking, I asked David if he can get me assigned to an easy group.
combo	I was tired from traveling and I wasn't nitpicky about which one I saw.
combo	It was raining that morning so I knew the grounds would be slippery.
combo	I was assigned the Agasha group and it only took 45 minutes of trekking to find them!
combo	Ten years of waiting and it was all worth the wait.
combo	I was able to get very close to the gorillas and it was exciting to see baby gorillas.
combo	It's was cold, raining, and they were mostly eating so not much playing around.
combo	We headed to Kigali after the trek.
combo	David picked me up the next afternoon for a short city tour before dropping me off at the airport.
combo	Genocide Memorial is commemorated for a week so I couldn't do a lot of souvenir shopping, and I knew that when booking so I was okay with it.
combo	Overall, I had a wonderful time in Rwanda thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	I felt fine the entire time, especially when David was with me, and even the one night when I was the only guest at the Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (low season).
combo	If I ever use Gorilla Trek Africa for another trip, I would definitely ask for David again.
combo	Tip: Get your Rwandan visa from the embassy in your country before departure.
combo	Nicholas will send you an official itinerary to include with your application if you ask.
combo	I called the Rwandan embassy in DC and they said I could get the visa at the Kigali airport or mail them my paperwork.
combo	The rule might different if you’re not American.
combo	I mailed the embassy my visa application, along with proof of yellow fever vaccination.
combo	I received my visa in little over a week."
combo	"I'm giving this a 3 not because of the tour itself (the gorillas were absolutely amazing) but what it took for us to make it!
combo	We had booked and paid for a 3 day gorilla trek.
combo	Once we had made our payment we stopped receiving emails from Nicholas.
combo	My husband had to write numerous time to get details about pick up at the airport etc.
combo	we finally received an email stating that he had already sent us the info (which we never received) and continued to give us the details about our schedule.
combo	Nothing else.
combo	Yes it might have been our fault for not checking but we were never advised that we needed our visas prior to arriving in Rwanda.
combo	Which means that once we arrived in Amsterdam for our connecting flight, we couldn't get on the plane.
combo	We emailed Nicholas and he finally answered stating that all this information had been send in an email with a packing/planning list.
combo	We had never received such email and he was not able to re-send us that said email.... We lost 2 days in Amsterdam planning a a trip to Tanzania (which is were we were going on the second half of our trip) and lost of money changing and reorganizing flights.
combo	We were extremely disappointed about not making this trek and the loss of our deposit.
combo	Nicholas emailed and said that he was able to fast track our visas (we had applied on line before leaving but still had received them).
combo	Even though he said he had them, we still couldn't get in the plane without a copy -which he couldn't provide.
combo	After being on a safari and in Tanzania for over a week we finally got back to civilization and Internet access.
combo	We were pleasantly surprised to receive yet other emails with copies of our Visas.
combo	Nicholas told us that he could accept us anytime for our 3 day trek as planned... We were ecstatic!!!
combo	We yet again changed the back end of our trip and 3 days later made our way to Rwanda.
combo	Our guide Patrick was fantastic and on time and there for us.
combo	The experience with the gorillas was a once in a lifetime event that I will never forget!!!!
combo	Absolutely amazing and well worth every penny!!!!
combo	Things to keep in mind for the trek in Rwanda.
combo	On line Visa -they say within 3 days but will most likely take much longer so get well in advance before your trip.
combo	No need for the multiple days/countries (100$) unless you are going to Kenya etc.
combo	No need for gaters Absolute must are gloves!!!
combo	Long sleeves and pants Get a porter not only does it help their economy but they are extremely helpful.
combo	You are also guaranteed to see these amazing creatures!
combo	All in all one of the best experiences in my life and happy that Nicholas finally came through"
combo	"Exceptional trip with our magnificent, thoughtful, knowledgeable, driver guide Emma, who knew the region as the back of his hand.
combo	Despite the patches of bumpy road- he kept us up-to-date, as well as entertained.
combo	Wow the custom built van was very comfortable, clean and in a good state.
combo	The lodges Cassia Lodge, Primate Lodge, Top View Hill Hotel were well chosen.
combo	The boat launch in Queen Elizabeth rewarded us with what Emma called the school of hippos, alongside, buffalos, crocodile’s elephant, and a range of beautiful birds, eminent – the white pelican-, bathing.
combo	Gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda left me and my family speechless – we had never seen such a huge animal in its natural environment.
combo	As a family we agreed that a repeat visit to this beautiful virgin lands is more than the monies worth, this trip was certainly memorable for us.
combo	Kristoffer Hansen"
combo	"I have just returned from a 3 day Gorilla tour with Gorilla Trek Africa and have been so impressed with the whole experience.
combo	From the start I found that Nicholas was very quick to respond to my emails and was able to provide answers to all my questions.
combo	I had heard good things about the company and they lived up to their reputation.
combo	My guide was William and he was an absolute star!
combo	So friendly and helpful.
combo	Kenya Airways managed to not transfer my luggage from Nairobi so the start of my trip was quite stressful.
combo	William made sure that he made all the right phone calls etc.
combo	and I was able to get my luggage later in the day before we travelled to Musanze.
combo	Although the main purpose of my trip was to track the gorillas, I had wanted to see some of the historical and cultural aspects of Rwanda as well and really enjoyed the other visits on my itinerary.
combo	The Kigali Genocide Museum was a deeply moving experience and tackled a very sad part of Rwandan history very well and with a lot of tact.
combo	It was so sad to learn the history behind the genocide and very sad to read about the victims, especially the children.
combo	On the drive to Musanze William was great, telling me a lot about Rwanda and answering all my questions.
combo	I had travelled alone for my trip and was relieved that William was so friendly and relaxed as there is nothing worse than travelling alone and being stuck with a guide for days that you don't get along with!!!
combo	The drive to Musanze was beautiful and really shows what a beautiful country Rwanda is.
combo	I stayed at Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge and really enjoyed my experience there.
combo	The staff were very friendly and helpful.
combo	As I visited in low season the lodge was very quiet and didn't have many other guests but it didn't matter.
combo	The climate is a bit cold (in comparison to Mombasa where I live) but they have fireplaces in the restaurant and in your rooms.
combo	It was really nice to have a roaring fire in my room each nice and to have a hot water bottle to sleep with!
combo	Of course the gorilla trekking was the highlight of the trip and it was amazing!
combo	My guides for the trek were Eugene and Francis, who were both very friendly and entertaining.
combo	Nothing beats the feeling the first time you spot a gorilla after trekking through the bamboo forest!
combo	Amazing experience!
combo	I also did the Golden Monkey trek and really enjoyed that too.
combo	My guides were Francois and Ferdinand who were also very entertaining!
combo	I also did a community walk which involved visiting a local village and meeting families and seeing how they live.
combo	I got to try basket making and learned a lot about day to day living in Rwanda.
combo	I really enjoyed this experience and would definitely recommend it, especially as your money helps the local communities to benefit from tourism.
combo	Overall, I had an amazing, once in a lifetime adventure and enjoyed every aspect of my trip.
combo	I would recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone and will certainly be using them again the next time I visit Rwanda.
combo	I would also definitely recommend having William as your guide as he was very professional but, most importantly, very friendly and fun!!!
combo	A massive thank you to William and everyone at Gorilla Trek Africa!!!"
combo	"I can not express how absolutely wonderful my 5 day Rwanda trip was with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	My guide, Bernard is one in a million!!!!
combo	The nicest, kindest and most capable guide I have ever met.
combo	I was traveling as a solo female and felt safe and well taken care of the entire time.
combo	Every little aspect of my trip was perfect right from the first email response I received from Nicolas.
combo	I emailed 5 or 6 different companies and Nicolas was the first to respond with many companies never responding at all.
combo	The planning stage went flawless.
combo	I stayed at the following: Rusizi Tented Camp at Akagera National Park, Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge near Volcanoes National Park, and Paradise Malahide on Lake Kivu.
combo	Each property was wonderful in their own special way, especially the service, the kindness and care of the staff.
combo	I would highly recommend each.
combo	The gorilla experience is a once in a lifetime Bucket List item that leaves lifelong unforgettable memories.
combo	If I could give Gorilla Trek Africa 10 stars I would.
combo	Again, Bernard is a gem and made my trip even more special with all his knowledge and kindness I can't thank him nor Nicolas enough for making my trip one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
combo	Book with Gorilla Trek Africa and ask for Bernard...you won't be disappointed."
combo	"I'm back to the states just a week now and only now is my experience starting to sink in.
combo	Every single aspect of the trip was fantastic.
combo	Chris my tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife and the entire east African region.
combo	He is a truly wonderful person who brought me straight away into a life changing tour of Uganda and wildlife beyond my wildest dreams.
combo	My trip started in Queen Elizabeth National Park and I was in heaven!
combo	Elephants galore!
combo	Antelope like crazy!
combo	Lions Lions Lions!!!
combo	Hippo's, Croc's, Water Buffalo, Birds Birds, Birds!!!
combo	was in and unto itself a trip beyond my wildest dreams but every single day after seemed to top the next!
combo	Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park came with a rare upgrade!
combo	On top of a once in a life time encounter with the acrobatic boisterous chips we also had a close call with a small group of Elephant as they zig zagged through the rain forest.
combo	Never saw a mosquito or a single safari ant.
combo	Our guide- Africana was awesome!
combo	Informative, patient, filled with facts!!!
combo	The gorilla treking in Bwindi was over the top awesome again!
combo	Up close, eye to eye!
combo	It was work- up and down some serious grades but well worth it.
combo	Young and old- totally doable.
combo	If you have doubts just hire a porter to help.
combo	Do this before you leave earth!"
combo	"William picked us up at the hotel in Kigali and took us to a lodge at the entrance to the park.
combo	He was punctual and most informative, offering us a wealth of information along the way.
combo	All details were looked after.
combo	Seeing the gorillas up close was an experience of a lifetime.
combo	We were fortunate to see a one day old baby gorilla.
combo	Thanks for a great experience."
combo	"We got up bright and early to head from Kigali to Volcanos National Park for the gorilla trek.
combo	Our driver and guides were all fantastic and helpful!
combo	The experience itself is amazing.
combo	We hiked about 1 hr 45 min to get to see our gorilla family - we saw a nice variety of babies, adolescents and the huge silverback leader.
combo	I am honestly having trouble believing it was real life thinking back on the experience as I write this!
combo	A few things I wish I had known going in though -- bring good, waterproof hiking shoes.
combo	Many people in our group just had on tennis shoes and had wet, muddy feet at the end of it.
combo	Also wear or bring a waterproof/thicker plastic layer to cover your arms and legs - our guides had waterproof pants they put on about halfway through the trek.
combo	The stinging nettles you hike through can cut right through cotton clothing.
combo	Even my thick hiking pants were no match for the nettles, but luckily the gorillas took my mind off of the pain in my legs!
combo	Also, hire a porter.
combo	It's only $10 and it gives a job to someone who used to be a porter.
combo	The hike isn't strenuous enough to really need them to carry your bag or anything, but they do provide a nice helping hand when traversing some of the muddier areas."
combo	"The staff offered us the best rates and delivered fantastic service, meeting us at airport, providing safe travel to the gorilla viewing location and generally just taking care of all details and needs without any bother at all.
combo	Would highly recommend them as cheapest by a long way and excellent service."
combo	"My husband Rob and I have recently been gorilla trekking with Gorilla Trek Africa and were absolutely blown away by the experience of seeing mountain gorillas in the wild.
combo	For both of us this was something we have always dreamed of but never imaged that the experience could be so amazing!
combo	First of all I would mention the wonderful service while planning the trip.
combo	Nicholas was wonderful at answering all of my many and varied questions and always replied within 24 hrs.
combo	His advice helped us to pick exactly the right trip for us given the time we had available and in particular we were extremely pleased with the option we were given of seeing gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	For us it was quite a nerve-racking thing to be sending such large amounts of money overseas based mostly on trip advisor reviews but we needn't have worried the whole process was smooth and trouble free.
combo	Our Trek was excellent!!
combo	After a bit of a nerve wracking start thanks to a miscommunication by our hotel we were met by our guide Chris.
combo	It was really nice to see such a professionally presented guide waiting for us and we were blown away by the quality of the vehicle.
combo	My husband and I have both travelled extensively in the past but we both agree that Rwanda and Uganda are some of the best places we have visited.
combo	Chris went out of his way to ensure that we were comfortable and happy and his experience and passion for his job ensured that this was the case.
combo	We were able to see everything that we had wanted to see and so much more thanks to his knowledge and contacts within the industry.
combo	His knowledge of the gorillas and other animals, their behaviours and habitats was a credit to him and on top of that he understood that we were interested in everything going on around us and he was able to explain to us a lot about the culture and the history of the countries.
combo	Because of his knowledge we were able to see and hear animals that we know other groups missed out on.
combo	The actual gorilla treks were astonishing in their quality.
combo	While there was a lot of hiking involved in Uganda the sight of gorillas hanging out in the tops of trees will stay with me forever.
combo	We were told that we should not get closer than 6m to the gorillas, however something we were told time and time again is that the gorillas do not know this rule and this is very true.
combo	We got closer than we could have imagined.
combo	The gorillas are very much used to people and just seemed to be so gentle and tolerant of us being around.
combo	They truly are beautiful to see.
combo	Another highlight on this trip was hearing the chimps in the forest, its such a distinctive call and was a real treat to hear.
combo	In Rwanda our day trip was a little less of a hike (thanks to Chris for sorting that one out for us!
combo	but the experience was no less amazing.
combo	We had a young gorilla (one of a set of rare twins) fall out of a tree onto my husband and another in our group.
combo	No one was harmed and it was a hilarious thing to watch!
combo	Later a silverback walked up to one in our group and brushed past him and then a female with a 2 month old baby on her back nudged my husband to tell him to move out of her way.
combo	At all times the gorillas were completely non threatening and being in their presence felt like an absolute privilege.
combo	For anyone who has ever thought of doing a gorilla Trek I would say that works cannot do an experience like this justice, it truly is a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	I would also like to mention that the gorilla guides and porters did an amazing job and helped to make the trip so much more enjoyable.
combo	All in all we were absolutely blown away by the experiences we had while in Rwanda and Uganda, the people, the animals, the accommodation and the food are all things that will stay in our memories for a long time to come.
combo	The team at Gorilla Trek Africa ensured that we had an amazing experience that will never be forgotten!"
combo	"Rwanda is a place well worth visiting.
combo	I've done gorilla trekking twice now and that in itself cannot be described in a justful way, just needs to be done!
combo	The three day tour we took included a very nice trip from Kigali that we enjoyed very much.
combo	Alot of credit goes out to our very pleasant driver/guide/compagnion Eric.
combo	Urban/Malin"
combo	"My wife and I arrived (30 years old USA couple) in Rwanda and were promptly picked up by our driver William (we called him Willy.
combo	Our camp was a 3 hour drive and he was a very safe and kind driver.
combo	He got us there safe and sound.
combo	We absolutely loved the quarters (Mountain Gorilla View Lodge).
combo	We were tucked away in the mountains with our own unit that had a fireplace and was very cozy.
combo	We also really enjoyed the meals.
combo	We did both the golden monkey and gorilla treks.
combo	This is where Willy was absolutely amazing.
combo	He made sure we were with the best groups that moved quickly and got to see the largest Gorilla family with the oldest living Gorilla of all the families.
combo	Willy went around to the other groups and cross referenced who was in each group and where they were going and got us in the best one.
combo	Seeing the Gorillas was nothing short of remarkable.
combo	We saw a family of about 12 Gorillas with a mix of males, females, and children.
combo	The babies playing was a huge highlight and having them swinging around on jungle vines is something I will never forget.
combo	Also after the golden monkey trek it was raining and we were supposed to do a culture walk around town.
combo	Willy hung out around town (while we were back at the hotel) and waited to see if people came back outside after the storm so that we didn't waste our time.
combo	Willy didn't ever make us feel rushed and was always willing to make stops (bathroom, pictures, etc.
combo	when requested.
combo	Willy was truly selfless, kind, and knowledgeable.
combo	We loved his smile, professionalism, understanding of the area, and driving ability.
combo	We always felt safe with him and enjoyed his company.
combo	Willy made every effort to ensure we had the best experience possible."
combo	"The organization of the tour went smoothly, but the guide did less than minimum.
combo	I had gorilla trek permit for 2 days.
combo	The guide mentioned to me beforehand that usually the rangers assign an easy hike the second day.
combo	I very clearly told him I want a medium difficulty hike on the 2nd day, of course I was assigned to the easiest group possible (3/4th the ppl were over 65 and could barely walk).
combo	He gave vague excuses for the reason(park rules, he doesn't have influence over it etc.).
combo	I later asked the rangers about it and they said they honor requests like this.
combo	Basically I think either guide didn't care, or he wanted to return early to Kigali so intentionally ignored my request.
combo	Anyways, that was a very unsatisfactory hike and I don't feel I got my monies worth.
combo	And I wouldn't recommend unless quality of guiding improves.
combo	I later felt bad for tipping him a pretty large amount.
combo	Also, a week after the tour, the company have not asked for any feedback from me, or I would have written this privately.
combo	There were some other minor annoyances also, such as I asked to rent rain boots, but he said I don't need it.
combo	Walked about 3 hours with inside of hiking shoes wet.
combo	The actual gorilla trekking is highly recommended."
combo	"There isn't enough that I can say about seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat... that review is for a separate day.
combo	But I will say this: if you are even thinking of doing this, DO IT!
combo	You won't regret it!
combo	It was one of the best things/experiences that my husband and I have ever done.
combo	Now for the review of Gorilla Trek Africa itself.
combo	It was everything we had expected and wanted.
combo	William, our driver was great and very knowledgeable and friendly and we always felt safe with him.
combo	We booked budget accommodations and were pleased with the lodge we stayed at... it's the same one Diane Fossey used to stay at as well!
combo	Rooms were simple but clean and everyone was friendly and food was tasty... what more could we ask for :) We would definitely recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone who is thinking of going to Rwanda to see these amazing creatures!
combo	Thanks again to William and everyone else at Gorilla Trek Africa who made our trip, a trip of a lifetime!"
combo	"The itinerary was great, the gorillas were amazing.
combo	We were not floored by our guide, who seemed to do the minimum needed.
combo	For example, the itinerary said we would view Nyamata church, local markets -- never happened.
combo	I would go with this company again, but would ask for a more dedicated guide.
combo	We ended up tipping the guide nicely (too nicely) cause this was at the beginning of our trip and we didn't know what to expect.
combo	After continuing to Tanzania with a great guide, we could tell the difference."
combo	"This certainly is an amazing experience.
combo	If you are seeing the golden monkeys make sure you do that FIRST.
combo	They are worth seeing, but would be an anticlimax after seeing the gorillas.
combo	I was concerned that it would be a really hard walk and I would have difficulty completing it - but no.
combo	The organisers put you in groups of people of similar ability and fitness level and take you to a suitably close family of gorillas.
combo	I would strongly advise you to take advantage of the porters and walking stick (cost only a few dollars) - who will not only carry your bag, water etc but also are there as a helping hand when the walk gets tricky.
combo	It is best to wear long sleeves, long trousers, long socks or gators and gloves as there are fire ants, stinging nettles and mud.
combo	Any walking shoes will suffice; I just used my sneakers.
combo	It's worth it!
combo	In total we walked for about 1 1/2 - 2 hours to get to see them, but it was not a terribly difficult walk.
combo	We are both 60 years old) The jungle is the last part and it is thick and it was slippery, but manageable.
combo	We saw a family of about 18.
combo	Twins, more juveniles tearing around having fun, mothers, other females, a mother and a young baby and an enormous silverback who made his presence felt in no uncertain terms!
combo	It was breathtaking - He stopped eating, made warning noises and moved swiftly through the clearing, passed us (nearly brushing my thigh as he went past) and tore down a stand of bamboo just to show us who was boss!
combo	Having done that, he stalked off into the next clearing and went to sleep!
combo	We were able to start breathing again!
combo	The hour flew by really quickly.
combo	We took hundreds of photos and some movies.
combo	The trackers were great and kept making new space, when needed, for us with their machetes.
combo	If you are disabled or incapacitated in any way, did you know that the porters will carry you to see the gorillas?
combo	Wow!
combo	It is worth every cent!"
combo	"My husband and I have just returned from a trip to Rwanda and Uganda organized by Nicholas at Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Right from the initial inquiries about cost, itinerary, logistics etc.
combo	Nicholas answered all our questions promptly and also provided information we had not thought to ask.
combo	Wiring the deposit and final payment was no problem in fact the money was received in 2 days from Canada.
combo	Rodgers, our cheerful, informative driver and guide was excellent, providing us with enough information to make our trip interesting, educational and fun.
combo	He generously shared his impressive knowledge of the history, culture, traditions, birds and wildlife of each area we visited.
combo	His driving skills, for those of us who are nervous passengers, are excellent and we felt safe at all times.
combo	We are still in awe that he can drive and spot lions at 1/4 mile away.
combo	We had asked Rodgers to take us to a local orphanage and he drove us to Ruhija orphanage where we were entertained by the children.
combo	They are in desperate circumstances so we were glad to have an opportunity to make a donation and help with clothing items.
combo	We chose the moderately priced accommodations and were delighted with each lodge we stayed in.
combo	Two of the lodges were solar powered with charging stations and wifi in the common area.
combo	All the lodges were set in the most magnificent locations, snuggled up to a crater lake, the heart of a wildlife park, nestled against picturesque misty mountains, etc.
combo	The people working at the lodges were charming and helpful, as were all Rwandans and Ugandans we met along the way.
combo	The gorilla treks were challenging (we are in our late 60's) but there is not a more exhilarating wildlife experience on the planet than gazing into the amber eyes of a huge silverback or playful youngster.
combo	Anyone reasonably fit can make it as the guides set a reasonable pace and there are porters that can be hired for $10 to pull you up the steep bits and carry your gear.
combo	This income is vital to the community.
combo	The Golden Monkey and Chimpanzee treks were wonderful a well and a bit less challenging.
combo	Anyone contemplating a trip to Rwanda ad Uganda will be rewarded with stunning scenery, warm and friendly people and magnificent wildlife.
combo	Go, it is a life changing experience.
combo	Thank you many times over Nicholas and Rodgers."
combo	"From the beginning of booking right through til I was safely home, I can't thank Nicholas enough for his professional courtesy and patience.
combo	As a female, travelling solo for my first time in Africa, he answered a LOT of questions and customized my stay to perfection.
combo	Rogers was an outstanding guide, prompt, helpful and answered my myriad of questions about the country and it's history.
combo	He was a great photographer while I visited the Cultural Village and got some great shots of me as Queen for the day.
combo	Thanks Rogers!
combo	As far as the trekking went, Rogers arranged for me to be on the easy trek as I had to catch a flight that evening and couldn't spend hours trekking up to meet the group.
combo	It was perfect.
combo	About one hour of hiking and the stinging nettles and ants were basically non-existent once you're sat a few feet away from a silverback.
combo	Our group had two, the oldest fellow on the mountain and his son.
combo	It was stunning and surreal and I can't say enough about the guides, the Rangers, the porter and of course the gorillas.
combo	An experience of a lifetime!
combo	Thanks again to Nicholas and Rogers for making this dream come true.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful, immaculate country full of hard-working people who are quick to smile and wave if you make the first move.
combo	The children are endearing and beautiful and always shout hello with a big smile.
combo	I fell in love with Rwanda...so should you!"
combo	"I would highly recommend this to anyone who is over the age of 14 and able to walk semi-treacherous terrain for 4-10 miles.
combo	It was, without exaggeration, the best experience of my entire life.
combo	The slogan of the gorilla trek at Volcanoes National Park is “Experience of a Lifetime,"" and man did the trip live up to the slogan!
combo	My group was picked up from our hotel by Land Rovers and started the excursion at the welcome center where we got to watch native traditional singers,dancers and drummers.
combo	We were given some brief instructions and split into groups to go see the different groups of gorillas.
combo	We took the Land Rover out and walked through a wildflower farm up to the edge of the forest, then contacted the gorilla trackers who let us know where to enter the forest.
combo	We entered right by where an elephant had been roaming in the morning.
combo	We followed the path that the elephant had made right up to where the gorillas nest sight was.
combo	We walked through the nests and turned the corner and next thing I knew, I was surrounded by wild gorillas.
combo	There were babies, adults, sub adults, and one silverback alpha male.
combo	It was the most amazing hour of my life.
combo	The trek in/out of the area where they were located was only about a 30 minute walk both ways.
combo	100% worth the $750 to go because the money goes straight back into conservation, research and tourism that has resulted in rejuvenation and recovery of Rwanda post-genocide.
combo	Would recommend and I hope to go back!"
combo	"We chose to book our trip to Rwanda and Uganda over Christmas through Gorilla Trek Africa after reading all the positive reviews on TripAdvisor and are so glad we did!
combo	Our previous trips to Africa have been booked through UK tour companies but the service from GTA was first class at a much lower cost!
combo	Despite only booking a month in advance, Nicholas was able to secure gorilla and chimp trekking permits for the 5 of us and put together a fantastic itinerary, answering all our questions promptly and adjusting everything to our requirements.
combo	I was slightly concerned about sending a sizeable deposit by bank transfer and paying the balance in cash on arrival but the positive reviews on here allayed any worries and it all worked perfectly!
combo	Our guide, Kiganda Harryson, was absolutely fantastic.
combo	He was incredibly knowledgeable, courteous, great company with a wicked sense of humour, a superb driver and guide, and went out of his way to make every aspect of our trip perfect, and to give us a real insight into Rwanda and Uganda and their amazing culture, history, scenery and wildlife.
combo	We did a 7-day tour, starting in Kigali and spending 2 nights at Crater Safari Lodge near Kibale NP in Uganda, where we did the full-day chimpanzee habituation experience (highly recommended and possibly even better than the gorilla trek) and the Bigodi Wetland walk (fantastic for birds); then 2 nights at Mweya Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, with some superb game drives in stunning scenery and the amazing boat trip on the Kazinga Channel; and finally 2 nights at the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge in Volcanoes NP in Rwanda.
combo	The gorilla trek was even better than expected - an incredible experience - and we also really enjoyed the golden monkey trek.
combo	Finally back to Kigali where we visited the very moving genocide memorial.
combo	All of the lodges were very comfortable with outstanding views and very friendly and excellent service.
combo	Thank you to Gorilla Trek Africa and in particular to Harryson for the trip of a lifetime!"
combo	"Want to thank Gorilla Trek Africa for a wonderful trip!
combo	We did a 5 day trek around Uganda which included tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth, and tracking chimps in Kibale.
combo	All of these experiences were exceptional--with great service and awesome game viewing!
combo	Our guide and driver, Chris, was a very knowledgeable guide and he made sure that we got the most out of every day--whether it was trying some ripe mangoes off the side of the road or stopping a million times for us to take panoramic photos of the mountains and countryside.
combo	All the lodges were wonderful, we stayed at Gorilla Mist Lodge (5 star!
combo	), Marafiki (5+ stars!
combo	), and Primate Lodge Kibale (4 stars)."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa was wonderful.
combo	Our driver, Enos, picked us up at the airport and stayed with us for the whole trip.
combo	He was very knowledge and answered all of our questions.
combo	I would definitely recommend this tour agency"
combo	"We booked a seven day safari with two days of gorilla trekking.
combo	One in Uganda and one in Rwanda.
combo	We were/ are very happy with the safari, the booking process and especially our driver, Harrison.
combo	The booking process was very easy and communication with Gorilla Trek Africa was always easy with quick responses.
combo	Our driver was absolutely amazing.
combo	He was prompt, made sure we were on time to all of our scheduled items, drove responsibly, was full of information.
combo	He just went over and above for us.
combo	Our gorilla treks were about 3-4 hours each and varied from the challenging in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to a mild hike in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Highly recommend spending time with these beautiful animals.
combo	All of the accommodations were great.
combo	We stayed at Mihingo Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Bakiga Lodge and Mountain View Gorilla Lodge.
combo	I can't think of a single issue with any of the lodges.
combo	The staff at each was always welcoming, kind, and professional.
combo	The dinners and breakfasts were all good.
combo	The Range Rover transportation was very comfortable.
combo	And it was well stocked with water.
combo	I would definitely recommend GTA."
combo	"I hired Gorilla Trek Africa for a last minute, one-day expedition into Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
combo	Nicholas was very responsive to my inquiries and the trip was booked quickly with no hassles.
combo	The next morning at 4:30 promptly, Eric picked me up at my hotel in Kigali and we began the two-and-a-half hour drive to the Park.
combo	Eric has an extremely deep knowledge of the gorillas, Rwanda and anything else you would like to ask of him.
combo	With five hours in the car coming & going, we covered a lot of topics, and he was engaging, friendly and a great resource.
combo	Once at Volcanoes, Eric got me into a fantastic hiking group.
combo	Lunch was provided as well boot cleaning service after the hike (believe me, you WILL need to clean your boots afterwards).
combo	Great kudos to Eric, Nicholas and Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	They helped facilitate a wonderful once-in-a-lifetime experience for me."
combo	"We booked gorilla trek Africa after having read the positive reviews on trip advisor and weren't disappointed.
combo	Everything was planned perfectly and the city tour before heading north was interesting.
combo	Our guide Eric was very knowledgeable and his temperament suited our North European character just fine - calm, informative and friendly yet not overbearing.
combo	He briefed us on everything and showed us around musanze up north which was great.
combo	We stayed at the muhaba lodge, which was included in the budget option - great value for money.
combo	The trek itself was great.
combo	We chose a medium trek which lasted around 3 hours plus one hour gorilla watching.
combo	I can only highly recommend the company.
combo	Very professional and good with customers."
combo	One of the best treks I've ever done.
combo	For sure I'll never forget it.
combo	The guides are informative and friendly.
combo	You need to have a certain level of fitness as there is some steep climbing and descending.
combo	The trek I was on lasted about five to six hours in total starting very early in the morning.
combo	However the time flew.
combo	Be aware also that because of the altitude some people will feel breathless at times but it all depends on fitness levels.
combo	You'll be offered a long walking stick to use.
combo	Take it.
combo	You will use it.
combo	Wear long trousers and tuck the ends into your socks.
combo	Wear proper hiking boots too with a good grip sole.
combo	Some parts of the trek/hike can be very slippy especially when you're going down.
combo	I had the opportunity and thrill to be up close and nearly personal with some the members of one gorilla family.
combo	They're beautiful creatures.
combo	The views that I saw too were breathtaking.
combo	For me the entire experience was something very special.
combo	The trek is not cheap by any means but the majority of the money is going into the general upkeep of the reserve and the health and well being of the gorillas themselves.
combo	Part of our money goes into the local community too which was good to see.
combo	All worth this once in a lifetime opportunity.
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa were great.
combo	We thoroughly recommend them.
combo	They organised a wonderful trip around Rwanda for us, visiting many locations over two weeks in June/July 2015.
combo	Nicholas was excellent and very thorough with his preparation and administration.
combo	William was the perfect guide.
combo	We will definitely use them again."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa arranged a 5-day birthday trek through Rwanda and Uganda for me in late November of 2015.
combo	They did a fantastic job, from organizing the adventure to ensuring that my experience was world-class.
combo	As a woman traveling alone, my trek was completely dependent on my guide--five days spent with a stranger could go either way, and I was lucky enough to have William as my companion, teacher, and friend for that unforgettable trip.
combo	He's smart, super-knowledgeable about animals, the countries we were traveling through, photography, history, culture--pretty much everything you'd need expertise on, he's got it.
combo	In fact, (I think he turned me into a birder...) He's also a warm person who's extremely easy to be with, which is essential when you're traveling long miles over rough terrain to get to the next attraction.
combo	He was happy to talk when I wanted to talk or just drive and experience the lively, hectic African scenery unfolding out our windows.
combo	Everywhere we went, he was greeted with real warmth by people who obviously respect him, from park rangers and guards to other guides.
combo	He worked tirelessly to be sure I had the best experience and that I saw as many animals as possible.
combo	I cannot recommend him--or this experience--more highly, and I'm already dreaming of my next trek (I need to meet the gorillas in Bwindi, and see more of Uganda, which is one of the loveliest countries in the world).
combo	One caveat--I insisted on driving to Bwindi after my gorilla trekking experience at Volcanoes Nat'l Park in Rwanda.
combo	Looking back, it would have been much smarter to have stayed at the lodge that evening and relaxed after scaling a volcano in the rain and coming fur to flesh with a blackback on top of Abinyo earlier that day.
combo	But William very gamely drove me to Uganda and when we arrived at the lodge in Bwindi late that evening, they surprised me with a birthday cake--just one of many happy memories I have from my trek through Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Thanks, William...and the whole Gorilla Trek Africa team."
combo	Our Gorilla trek in Volcanos National Park in Rwanda and Chimpanzee trek in Uganda (Kalinzu forest) and safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park was a trip of a life time.
combo	Our family of four including our 5 year old and mother were comfortable and well cared for on this trip.
combo	They took us to all our hotels attractions and took us across from Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The route was amazing through the rolling hills of Rwanda and the beautiful breathtaking country side of Uganda through the Impenetrable forest of Bwindi and lush green tea farms.
combo	We were fortunate enough to see such amazing countries.
combo	Our drivers were great representatives of their country informing us about the history culture and resources of their country.
combo	This tour company also were very accommodating they arranged to give us a last minute city tour as we waited for our late flight back to Canada.
combo	They also helped us to cross over between countries which was interesting process as they don't allow people to cross over in cars but had to walk across the boarder.
combo	Over all this company was professional and very reliable.
combo	Enjoyed every minute of it and best of all we were able to maximize our visit to Africa by visiting all the must sees places on this trip with this safari company that took care of us.
combo	"I traveled to Rwanda on my own as a solo female traveler and was a bit apprehensive, but Nicholas put me at ease.
combo	I was in contact with him for a couple of weeks before I officially booked and paid for my tour.
combo	He answered my many questions and even chatted with me on the phone a couple of times.
combo	His outstanding customer service is what made me choose Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	He was prompt to reply to all emails and was very helpful and informative.
combo	I requested a Senior staff member from Gorilla Trek Africa to be my guide.
combo	Eric was my guide throughout my 5day double trek, with city tour.
combo	He provided flawless customer service and took good care of me.
combo	He was extremely attentive, professional and made me feel safe at all times.
combo	His customer service is exceptional and it was clear he loves his job and loves sharing his culture and country with people.
combo	I trekked to see the gorillas twice.
combo	Eric inquired about whether I wanted a short/med/long hike and then I was put into a hiking group accordingly.
combo	I saw the Sabyinyo family with the largest of all the Silverbacks.
combo	On day 2, I say the Agasha family.
combo	Both days, I got within a couple of feet from Silverbacks, blackbacks, females, and baby gorillas.
combo	At times they were literally at my feet!
combo	This was a breathtakingly spectacular adventure that I will cherish always!
combo	It is hands down one of the coolest things I have ever done in my life!
combo	A once in a lifetime adventure!
combo	I was offered budget, mid-range, luxury, hotel options.
combo	I opted for the mid-range and stayed at the Le Bambou lodge which was perfect!
combo	I had my own private cottage with a fireplace and it was very close to the Volcanoes national park.
combo	Overall, my trip was perfect!
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa did an amazing job creating a once in a lifetime adventure for me!
combo	I felt the price for the tour was very competitive with other tour companies, but Gorilla Trek Africa's customer service far exceeded any other company I had spoken with, which is why I chose them.
combo	As a solo female traveler, it was important to me that I find a company that I feel safe with, that provides superb customer service and that will provide an amazing adventure and Gorilla Trek did all of the above!
combo	I highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for your Gorilla trek adventure/experience!"
combo	"Amazing company, easy from start to finish and at a fair cost.
combo	Norbert and Valance are true professionals with a knowledge of Rwanda that only comes from being a citizen.
combo	Norbert's flexibility, kindness and keen awareness of the real Rwanda are huge assets.
combo	Although incredibly safe, he and his trusted partner Valance were hyper vigilant with regard to our comfort and safety at all times.
combo	From Twin Lakes, Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, Lake Kivu, local villages and cultural heritage - Norbert is simply outstanding.
combo	His relationship within the tourism and development industry as well as the locals is beyond reproach and certainly a benefit to visitors.
combo	When you go to Rwanda, reach out to Treks2Rwanda.
combo	Karen makes things easy to book...Enjoy and say hello to Norbert from his friends in the USA."
combo	"Gorilla Trek Africa arranged a wonderful trip for Gorilla trekking in Rwanda (Volcanoes Park) and Uganda (Bwindi Forest), chimp tracking in Uganda (Queen Elizabeth Park) and Golden monkey viewing (Volcanoes).
combo	To see primates, the trip was spectacular and exceeded my expectations.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	"After finding Gorilla Trek Africa on Trip Advisor - I would to give Nicholas and Eric compliments for arranging an incredible and unforgettable experience.
combo	My wife and I did the Gorilla trek on Saturday the 24th October and I can honestly say this has to be one of the best experiences of our lives.
combo	We visited the Susa family which was the one followed by Dian Fossey.
combo	Eric was the kindest and most helpful man and we would really like to thank him for the insight into Rwanda, helping with our transfers and then for arranging a birthday cake for me at the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge .
combo	Also a special thank you Eric for managing to find a TV which showed the rugby semi-finals.
combo	A once-in-a-lifetime experience and I can strongly recommend using these guys to arrange a trip.
combo	Nicholas and Eric - thank again from Jared and Tracy Coetzer"
combo	"We just completed a 3 day gorilla safari that was organized by Nicolas of Gorilla Trek Africa that turned out to be much more than we had expected.We were very fortunate to have had an absolutely fantastic driver by the name of Sam Elliot.
combo	He was both knowledgeable, considerate and more than willing to go out of his way to attend to our interests and needs, and what was most enjoyable was the pride he felt for his country.
combo	If you decide to go on a gorilla safari you should use this company and if possible, ask for Sam, you won't be disappointed."
combo	"I did a 1.5 day trip from Kigali to the Volcanoes National Park to see the Mountain Gorillas.
combo	I organised this through Nicolas at Gorilla Trek Tours who is simply amazing - responsive, knowledgeable and never impatient despite my numerous emails.
combo	My tour guide, Eric, was fantastic too - a good driver, very helpful and very knowledgeable on Rwanda and its history.
combo	The trek was long, tiring, but one of the most fantastic things I've ever done - we saw 12 gorillas including a very young baby.
combo	Why can't I give more than five stars?"
combo	"We have recently returned from a 3 day Gorilla Trek in Rwanda arranged through Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nicholas who organised the trip was professional and responded to all my emails promptly giving sound advise on all aspects of the trek.
combo	We were picked up at our hotel in Kigali by William who was to be our driver/guide for the next 3 days.
combo	I cannot say enough about William he was incredible, excellent driver, knowledgeable, always on time and nothing too much trouble for him.
combo	10 out of 10.
combo	The actual trek was tough and one of our friends aged 74 who found it hard had the excellent support of the porters who deserve a mention in this review, they are marvellous.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was amazing and an experience of a lifetime.
combo	I would highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa and William as a guide."
combo	"My 2 friends and I did 5 day tour with Rwanda Gorillas early September.
combo	The experience was more than we expected.
combo	We were picked up at Kigali airport by our amazing driver Robert (wiring money went ahead smoothly).
combo	He explained the gorilla treks, was at our lodge to pick us up every day at 0600 hrs and took great care of us.
combo	Seeing the gorillas up close and personal was beyond our wildest dreams, you get so much closer than is expected.
combo	And to top it off we trekked to Dian Fossey gravesite which was really amazing too.
combo	Highly recommend going with local company, payment was easy and no hassles anywhere."
combo	"I could not speak more highly of this company and its service.
combo	First of all, we dealt with Nicolas when organizing our trip.
combo	He was spectacular.
combo	He would reply almost always within 24 hours and was always willing to answer our questions or make changes to our itinerary.
combo	We were able to tell Nicolas what we wanted and he was able to secure it all--great hotels, gorilla trekking permits, and excursions all for the right price.
combo	It could not have been any better.
combo	When we arrived we were also blessed to have, what we thought, as the best guide on earth.
combo	Bernard was awesome.
combo	I would even recommend asking for him if he is available.
combo	He was super informative, always positive, amazingly helpful, and very caring (even stopping on our drives to pick us up drinks and local fruits).
combo	If you get the opportunity to have Bernard as your guide, you will not regret it!
combo	Our trip started in Kampala, Uganda and Bernard drove us down to Kigali, Rwanda--making multiple stops on the way.
combo	We gorilla trekked in Rwanda and went on a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park--both of which I would recommend.
combo	All in all, our trip could not have been better.
combo	I would absolutely recommend this company."
combo	"Was probably what I looked forward towards the most and still I am amazed by it.
combo	It's hard to describe seeing a gorilla in the wild up close (around 3-5m).
combo	Initially was only going to trek once but I was fortunately able to buy a cheaper permit off someone else that have cancelled.
combo	The trek can be modified to your need but often unpredictable.
combo	For example first day we asked for a hard trek but once entering the jungle, the gorilla family had moved near the entrance.
combo	As for an average trek, we ended up needing to scale down a cliff to see the gorillas.
combo	If you need, you can always hire a porter for a fair price who help you navigate through the trek.
combo	It's just amazing to see how a family interact with the babies playing and the dominant male being really imposing and cool."
combo	"We had a great experience, right from the start of emailing to customising our itinerary, to being picked up by Ben (our excellent guide) in a very good quality vehicle to being settled into our last Motel before flying to the next leg of our trip.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa organised our Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda and Rwanda, our Chimp trekking Permits in Uganda, our Golden Monkey trekking permits in Rwanda and a 2 day hike to Mount Nyiragongo in DCR and it all went without a single hiccup.
combo	Ben was a great representative of Gorilla Trek Africa, going above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly, even organising overnight repairs to one of our pairs of hiking boots and tracking down a replacement to a lost power adaptor.
combo	He was able to answer all our inquiries about Uganda and Rwanda; flora and fauna, agriculture, infrastructure, education, health politics etc.
combo	On the first day we met a very competent guide, on the last day we said goodbye to a good friend.
combo	Highly recommend a competent and good value for money company."
combo	"I have just returned from a 3 day tour with Gorilla Trek Africa, in Rwanda, and it was incredible.
combo	The Gorilla Trek was something else all together, and I would absolutely and whole heartedly recommend it to anyone that has ever thought about doing it.
combo	It is a magical experience, that will never be recreated!
combo	As for the company, there is not one bad word I can say.
combo	From the very first enquiry email I sent when I was searching for companies to go with, Nicholas was extremely helpful and totally accommodating.
combo	He allowed me to custom build an itinerary to meet my requests and time restraints.
combo	It's a pretty expensive expedition, especially when going solo, and he gave me a great deal.
combo	I was met and then dropped off at the airport by Eric, who was an amazing guide!
combo	His knowledge of Rwanda is awesome, and he shares it so well!
combo	He was great company.
combo	I had an amazing 3 days in Rwanda, and definitely left with the desire to return.
combo	I very highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"Our amazing trip to Rwanda was really a result of our tour company.
combo	Before this trip all we knew is that Rwanda was a country steeped in beauty and with a history of unrest and tragedy.
combo	These two aspects came to life through our guide Sam and his assistant Billy.
combo	Sam knows every single thing you could imagine about this jewel of a country.
combo	We know this because we asked him about everything and every question received an extensive, knowledgeable response.
combo	I never saw those two without smiles on their faces, and every aspect of the trip, no matter how difficult our requests made it, revolved around us receiving the best trip imaginable.
combo	Yes, we changed our plans a few times lol BUT they somehow accommodated every one of our needs.
combo	The trip took us from Kigali and the busy markets, where we were taken to the coolest local stands, to the Genocide Memorial and museum, to the gorilla national park and upon our last second request to the other side of the country to the Akagera National Park.
combo	On one trip we saw the worlds best wildlife and met the kindest locals.
combo	Sam is funny, kind and quick to share a joke or share deeply sad and moving stories about the history of the country.
combo	We are so thankful to have somehow stumbled upon this company, and with our big spacious off road vehicle, to have wandered the most amazing country."
combo	"We booked the 5 day tour across Rwanda (to see the gorillas) and Uganda (to see the chimps) and for some game drives.
combo	Booking was really easy and Nicholas was really responsive to our emails.
combo	David was our tour guide for the week and looked after us well, talking us through our agenda, checking we were always ok and asking how each day was, checking we always had water and driving safely (especially given the crazy distance we covered).
combo	We were super lucky and got to see both gorillas and chimps as hoped on our day and our choices of location to do so was as a result of the companies recommendations.
combo	Prices were very comparative to other companies but would definitely recommend these, regardless.
combo	We had a great trip!!"
combo	"Wow!!
combo	It's indeed a once in a life time experience as many say it.
combo	Traveling with Gorilla Trek Africa to make this dream come true was just the right decision I made.
combo	Nicholas was on point for every question and it took no time to trust and book my trip with the company.
combo	Not forgetting my guide Eric who was attentive to all my needs on the trip, knowledgable, always on time and smart.
combo	I wouldn't ask for a better guide.
combo	Thanks a lot to Nicholas and Eric"
combo	"Gorilla Trek did a terrific job in organizing our ""bucket list"" trip to Rwanda.
combo	I did my due diligence in selecting the local travel company that we would use for our trip and Nicholas with Gorilla Trek was by far the most responsive to my inquiries.
combo	In addition, he put together a unique itinerary that not only allowed us the once in a lifetime experience of seeing the Mountain Gorillas, but it also exposed us to the people and culture of Rwanda.
combo	The trip would have not have been as special, however, without our driver-guide Sam.
combo	He is not only incredibly knowledgeable about his country and its history, but most importantly, he is a great person.
combo	We shared a lot of stories and laughs with Sam and developed a friendship that we hope will last a lifetime.
combo	Thanks to Sam and Nicholas at Gorilla Trek for a very special experience that we will not soon forget."
combo	"An experience words cannot describe!
combo	Even though I booked last minute Gorilla Trek Africa went out of their way to secure a permit for me, confirming my booking both after paid and the day before pick up.
combo	William my driver was fantastic - he enquired about my preferences and managed to secure me spot with a great troop of gorillas.
combo	Highly recommended"
combo	"We were incredibly pleased in our experience with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Before the trip they were very responsive and flexible.
combo	It was during the trip that they really shined.
combo	Our flight into Kigali was cancelled (beware of Rwandair) and we managed to get on a much later flight that same day.
combo	We called Gorilla Trek Africa and they were very understanding.
combo	Our driver met us at the Kigali airport after midnight and let us catch some sleep on the drive to the national park in order to still catch our Gorilla trek for the next morning.
combo	Trekking was amazing, as expected.
combo	We liked it so much that we decided to try for permits for the next day.
combo	Our guide William, stopped at nothing to help us get the permits, including driving us al over the area to find an ATM capable of allowing us to withdrawal the cash and letting us use his phone to make the withdrawal work.
combo	It was quite a process and having a patient and helpful guide made it so much better.
combo	I'd highly recommend this company - they were awesome!"
combo	"My wife and I have just returned from a week in Rwanda.
combo	The holiday (excl.
combo	flights) had been arranged by Gorilla Trek Africa, which is a travel company located in Uganda but organises tours through East Africa.
combo	We didn't find many other reviews of this travel company on Tripadvisor (or elsewhere) and that is a real shame as this company is fantastic in providing tailor made holidays without a price tag that breaks the bank!
combo	Our primary contact was Nicolas (working in their Uganda office) who was highly professional, friendly and very helpful in developing a tailored programme that suited our interests.
combo	Our primary goal was to go trekking with mountain gorillas in the Volcanos National Park in Rwanda and Nicolas was extremely helpful in organising this.
combo	We had MANY questions and he was very patient and answered each and every one in great detail.
combo	When the itinerary was finalised we had to transfer a deposit (a sizeable amount) to secure the gorilla permits as these get booked out up to six months in advance - it is standard practice and all travel companies will ask for a deposit to enable them to secure the gorilla permits.
combo	To be honest we were a little hesitant parting with a large sum via an international transfer but this worry hadn't been necessary whatsoever and Nicholas informed us as soon as the money had arrived.
combo	We could not have asked for a better service.....in fact we have not received such effective and rapid responses from any UK company that we have used in our past 20+ years of intense travelling.
combo	Roll on Rwanda.....a.k.a The Land of a Thousand Hills.
combo	It is a beautiful country with a dark history that has left a permanent scar but it is humbling to see how everyone continues to push forward and look ahead to the future.
combo	It is a poor country but so incredibly beautiful and it is lovely to see how curious most children are of tourists and their desire to engage.
combo	Our guide for the week was William and he was an absolute pleasure to travel with.
combo	He was very knowledgeable about Rwanda, its culture and introduced us to local food and traditions, which made the trip even more memorable.
combo	William was highly organised.
combo	He was highly organised, very friendly and easy going, always on time and flexible in his approach.
combo	William was incredibly well regarded by the locals everywhere we went and we cannot praise him highly enough.
combo	A great ambassador for Gorilla Trek Africa and we would highly recommend him as a guide!
combo	We spent a couple of days in Akagera National Park where we saw hippos, zebras, baboons, wild hogs, impalas, crocodiles and much more.
combo	It is a great visit but don’t expect to see the Big 5 Game.
combo	The park has recently (June 2015) released eight lions into the park and there are also elephants and giraffes.
combo	Whilst it cannot be compared to the Maasai Mara or Serengeti it is well worth a visit!
combo	The highlight of our trip was the gorilla trekking in the Volcanos National Park – an experience for a life time!
combo	We did two treks and whilst the permits are pricy it is well worth it as you get two completely different experiences.
combo	The treks offered amazing views of the mountains and the lush nature.
combo	The hour we spent with the gorillas were mind blowing and we cannot recommend it enough.
combo	We also did the Dian Fossey trek and it was great experience that we would definitely recommend if you got an extra day in Musanze!
combo	The trek was steep but the views were worth the efforts.
combo	If you consider travelling to Africa then go with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	We highly recommend them and when we go again we will definitely be in touch with Nicolas to arrange our next trip!"
combo	"I took a two day trip with Gorilla Trek Africa to see the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda and it was absolutely incredible.
combo	My driver, Enos, was a great guy - knowledgeable about everything and a real gentleman.
combo	I was travelling solo and he made sure I was looked after the whole time.
combo	And the gorillas of course were fantastic!
combo	We only had to trek 30 minutes before coming across the 'Lucky' family - about 13 of them.
combo	And to our incredible luck - a new baby had arrived in the night and we saw the mother in her nest with it.
combo	This is a lifetime experience and I'd highly recommend Gorilla Trek Africa."
combo	"I had been wanting to visit Rwanda for the past several years, and Gorilla Trek Africa provided a perfect introduction to the country.
combo	Within twenty-four hours of contacting the company via e-mail, Nicholas promptly responded to my inquiry, providing detailed responses to each of my questions.
combo	Through regular e-mail correspondence, he created a 10-night, 11-day itinerary, which included, but was not limited to, private transportation, virtually every meal, visits to all three national parks (Akagera, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe), various trekking activities (gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees), and a personal guide.
combo	We feel incredibly fortunate that Eric was our guide; he was remarkably professional, punctual, and knowledgeable, providing excellent insight into Rwanda's history, culture, and future.
combo	In addition, he always greeted us with a smile, and he was very accommodating of our requests.
combo	Truthfully, I can't imagine a better guide, and we would gladly use Gorilla Trek Africa's services again.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	"A friend recommended Gorilla Trek Africa so I decided to contact them.
combo	When I first emailed them to inquire about tours to Rwanda they were very professional and got back to me quickly.
combo	We decided to do a Kigali city tour, gorilla trek and golden monkey tour for my husband and I and we weren't disappointed.
combo	On arrival in Rwanda we were met by David our guide who was friendly, had lots of knowledge, good English and nothing was a problem for him.
combo	The car was clean and reliable and our hotel was excellent - everything about the tour was exceptional.
combo	I have recommended Gorilla Trek Africa to friends as they make your trip to Rwanda a memorable one."
combo	"Its a long day and a tough/steep walk up to the park and the flora (stinging nettles) will attack you through your clothes if you are not properly prepared but the opportunity to visit, even for an hour, with these incredible primates should not be missed.
combo	The guides are well prepared and they say it is unusual not to find your allocated family of gorillas.
combo	I was nervous to be so close to nature this powerful but after a while I relaxed and began to enjoy the experience for what it was - once in a lifetime!"
combo	"I had a long weekend and wanted to do something memorable in it.
combo	I got in touch with a number of travel companies however Gorilla Trek provided the most active and comprehensive itinerary which is why I chose them.
combo	From the moment I arrived to the time I left, everything was taken care of.
combo	My guide Eric was just awesome.
combo	Cannot recommend him highly enough.
combo	He looked after me the whole time, was so insightful and really put 100% in each day.
combo	He really made the whole thing (well that and the Gorillas!).
combo	Overall an amazing trip.
combo	Recommend the company."
combo	Booked the trip with Gorilla Trek - who were very efficient handling all enquiries and making suggestions and adjustments to the itinerary.
combo	We chose a day in Kigali visiting the Genocide museum and Nyamata Church - then to Mountain View Gorilla Lodge for 2 days to see the Gorillas.
combo	This something I had wanted to do for twenty years and it lived up to all expectations.
combo	Seeing them so close is truly memorable and uplifting experience - and Gorilla Trek and a well run organized company and I would recommend them.
combo	"Gorilla Trek put together a great plan for us to see gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda as well as some excellent game viewing at Akagera, Nyungwe, Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.
combo	Our guide , Paul Tamwenya, did a fantastic job arranging everything we needed, and ensuring that the whole trip went smoothly.
combo	His knowledge and ability as a birder and wildlife guide was exceptional.....and with his expert help we found a leopard and family of lions as well as many other animals.
combo	Accommodation and food were all very good and we were well looked after everywhere we went.
combo	Rwanda and Uganda are both beautiful countries and we would happily recommend Gorilla Trek Africa to anyone planning a visit."
combo	"We must've exhausted Nicholas with our scores of emails - he patiently answered everything and even met us in Kampala to pay second half of trip fees.
combo	Wire transfer took three days to process so don't panic!
combo	Our fantastic driver and guide - Williams - had an enthusiastic tourism operator in training with him named Asaph.
combo	Between the two of them we were so well taken care of.
combo	honestly, there was nothing we could've asked for more - stops for pics, searches for specific gifts, and when we had a couple hours to kill they took us poolside to Hotel Rwanda in Kigali and picked up the lunch tab.
combo	The driving was very safe, the van downright plush and the accommodations at Las palmas in ruhengori (base for trekking at Volcano National Park) was superb.
combo	The trek itself defies words - but suffice to say it was magical.
combo	Rogers, our guide, was lovely and made the whole experience so memorable.
combo	Williams and Asaph gave us options every day as to what we wanted to do and kept up many hours of steady conversation about history, language, flora and fauna and local culture.
combo	Many blessings to Asaph and Williams - big hearts and a love of eastern Aftica shines through.
combo	We will never forget you."
combo	"You simply dont need them Full Stop.
combo	They ripped us off big time.
combo	And their guide is very abnoxious!
combo	Never leaving us room for privacy.
combo	Inviting himself to sit with us at table.
combo	Coming by to our room without invitation.Driving dangerously.
combo	Trying to save money by not turning aircon on.
combo	It gets very hot and stuffy.
combo	Everything he did he expected tip for it bearing in mind he gpt full board at the luxuious hotel on our expense the whole time he is there with us.
combo	Never explained our programme clearly And then charged us a lot of extras (40usd) for things we dont know such as boots and jackets to borrow for a couple of hours.
combo	They were also dripping wet, too small and broken.
combo	For 3600 usd for 2 nights, we expect more.
combo	Boots and jackets should be provided for free.
combo	The guide also rushed us so much in the morning when he got up later than us and kept forgetting things so wasting us more time and we still had to go wait for registration for over 45 mins!!!
combo	At the end, we felt pressure to leave him tip because of what he said and acted.
combo	We gave him 12 euros and he wasnt happy.
combo	He didnt even deserve it to be honest.
combo	It is just disgraceful!
combo	Here my suggestions: 1) Rent a car.
combo	If its not rainy season, dont think you need 4w.
combo	2) Stay in mountain gorilla view lodge.
combo	Ask them where to get park tickets.
combo	The staff there is so useful.
combo	3) Pay for a porter/tracker at the entrance.
combo	They should be like 10-20 USD max.
combo	That way money goes to villagers rather than big company.You will see gorillas nonethrless.
combo	4) dont do the golden monkey trail.
combo	Its so expensive and not worth the money.
combo	5)go to tea plantation and cultursl villagr 6) spend 1 day max at volcanoes national park and then go to eastern part of Rwanda for safaris 7) skip uganda.
combo	gorillas in rwanda are more and trails not so steep and muddy.
combo	Easily to spot them.
combo	Hope this is helpful.
combo	Enjoy!
combo	Do the gorillas.
combo	Dont hesitate!"
combo	"We had a wonderful time in Uganda and were perfectly happy with the organization of the trip!
combo	Booking was easy through emails.
combo	Nicholas' replies to my numerous emails were nearly instantaneous.
combo	The payment through wire transfer was simple and not as expensive as payment through credit card.
combo	The car was in a good condition (I was a bit scared before going on the trip because I had some bad feedbacks from travellers on this), the lodges were nice with friendly staff and the food was simple but surprisingly good and nicely presented.
combo	And last but not the least, we would like to thank our guide and driver Rogers who really went out of his way to make our trip as interesting and hassle-free as possible.
combo	Bravo!"
combo	"We've just returned from our Rwanda tour with Gorilla Trek Africa during April 2015- what an experience we had!
combo	This was a truly a once in a lifetime experience for us that was only made better by our brilliant guide and driver William.
combo	His local knowledge was phenomenal.
combo	We travelled during the week of the 21st anniversary of the Rwandan genocide a period of mourning for Rwandans country wide - he handled the situation with delicacy and sensitivity and he gave us expert information of the history of the country.
combo	We saw everything From chimpanzee, golden monkeys, gorillas, hiked a volcano in 9 hours.
combo	I can't wait to bring the rest of my family on this trip and would recommend Gorilla Trek Africa in a heart beat to all our friends!
combo	Thanks so much William and Nicholas for the fantastic organization of our holiday!"
combo	"Awesome company with great local knowledge.
combo	From the outset a pleasure to deal with our time with Gorilla Trek Africa ensured we came home with fond memories, amazing photos and a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Lucky William was our wonderful driver who looked after us.
combo	As two women travelling we felt safe and spoilt.
combo	Thanks William and Nicholas."
combo	"We booked a 5 day safari with Gorilla Trek in March 2015 and would recommend this company.
combo	Booking was easy through emails.
combo	Nicholas answers quickly and arranged for all our special requests.
combo	His description of the tour and accommodations was accurate.
combo	The payment through wire transfer was simple and I had no concerned since they have so many good reviews.
combo	The driver/guide was William.
combo	He was on time, courteous, knowledgeable and insured we where well taken care of everywhere we went.
combo	We chose deluxe accommodations (gorilla mist camp and Gorilla view lodge) and both where great.
combo	Service and food was excellent, rooms are a bit more rustic at the mist camp, but fine for my standards.
combo	Loved the friendly welcome and service.
combo	The gorilla treks where great, but Rwanda (volcano parc) was a much better day than Uganda (Bwindi impenetrable forest).
combo	I am sure the experience varies from one day to another depending on where the gorillas are and how active they are at that time.
combo	I was glad we did 2 treks since the second one was so much better.
combo	More than 2 would be too much.
combo	The golden monkeys where not worth it.
combo	It was raining and they stayed in the trees, not doing much.
combo	The walk in the forest was more fun than watching the monkeys.
combo	We came back early...
combo	Tips: -No need to get local money.
combo	You will need money only for tips and the few souvenirs you will buy.
combo	We paid in US$, bring lots of small bills.
combo	-Don't bring much with you for the gorilla treks.
combo	1 litre of water, 2 granola bars, garden gloves, a sweater and light rain coat and your camera.
combo	Leave your lunch behind, you can eat it when you get back to the car.
combo	You won't need a porter unless you want someone to hold your hand and push you up.
combo	We put all our stuff in one bag and hired a porter for 3 people, but if you are in half-decent physical shape, you don't need one.
combo	If you can't climb a hill, get 2 porters to carry you!
combo	-Bring warm clothes, the lodges are at about 2000 km altitude and you will wear long pants and a sweater most of the time."
combo	"I was a little skeptical about booking online with a cash payment in person for a trip this expensive, but I was pleasantly surprised with how well everything was coordinated and how much fun the trip was.
combo	Our guide went the extra mile to make sure we were well taken care of and everything happened like clockwork without needing any input from us.
combo	Very good experience."
combo	"This is actually a company owned by Ugandans, and headquartered in Kampalla, even though we wanted to deal with a Rwandan company, and our correspondence with Nicholas lead us to believe we were dealing with a Rwandan company for our Rwandan 11 day tour.
combo	Our guide Enos was VERY kind, and courteous, and attended to our needs in a thorough way throughout the trip.
combo	He lives in Uganda and travelled to Rwanda for our tour of the country.
combo	The only negative about our guide was some of his driving skills.
combo	He likes to cross over the centre line to cut corners on the highway.
combo	He also likes to leave the car running while sitting, rather than turn the engine off.
combo	At the hotel parking lot he walked away from the vehicle to make an enquiry in the hotel and was away for some time.
combo	I reached over and turned off the ignition – no use creating pollution and exhaust for us to breath, and waste fuel.
combo	Other instances as an example: I asked why he was driving down the centre line of the road instead of his lane – he replied “you are right” and moved over.
combo	Another time we stopped for fuel and he left the car running, and got out to talk to the gas attendant.
combo	I asked why he was leaving the car running while getting gas.
combo	he replied “you are right” and then came in the car to turn it off and went back out again.
combo	Driving down a long continuous hill into the southern region, he put the vehicle into Neutral, and rode the brakes all the way down the hill.
combo	We stopped to take a photo at an elephant swamp and you could smell the brakes.
combo	One of us in the car commented that they brakes should be allowed to cool down before continuing.
combo	The chimpanzee trecking at the Nyungwe forest was an exhausting waste of time – we only saw blob shadows of animals in the canopy of trees and didn’t get any good photos.
combo	It was a steep slippery climb down and back up, and was NOT worth it.
combo	the Kibali Forest in Uganda was much better than this experience) I would recommend visiting the south of Uganda for game and chimpanzees, and then cross into Rwanda for your gorilla trecks.
combo	I wouldn’t bother touring the rest of the country, since there really wasn’t anything of particular interest in the 12 days we spend driving around the country.
combo	Everywhere we went, children yelled Mazungu (pronounced mazoongoo) meaning white tourists.
combo	Then when we stopped to take photos, or got out of the car on the highway, within a minute we were surrounded by children rudely demanding “give me money”.
combo	We got extremely tired of it, and told our guide that it was rude and a turn off for tourists who spend thousands of dollars to tour the country and have this happen every day.
combo	They don’t even smile or look friendly, they just demand money!
combo	Again, I’d recommend going to southern Uganda for happier, friendly people.
combo	the north of Uganda was not as friendly, and the people are not as familiar with tourists up there)"
combo	"Words cannot describe how amazing our tour with Gorilla Trek Africa was.
combo	My girlfriend and I did a 8 day trip with the company through Rwanda.
combo	Nicholas was superb at organising our bespoke trip.
combo	We started in Kigali and made our way to Nyungwe Forest where we saw the Chimps, Colobus Monkeys and hiked to the waterfall and walked in the tree canopy.
combo	A great start to the trip.
combo	Only to be outdone by the beautiful Volcano National Park where we saw the gorillas, golden monkeys and hiked Volcano Bisoke.
combo	A special thanks to our amazing guide William who took care of us throughout the tour.
combo	He was excellent in every way possible with detailed country information, history and a warm personality.
combo	Thanks to Gorilla Trek Africa and William.
combo	We will be back and will certainly travel with you again!"
combo	"I use the services of Gorilla trek in January for 2 days and have only good feedbacks to give.
combo	The organisation of the trip from Switzerland was very easy, despite the distance.
combo	Nicholas replies to my numerous emails were nearly instantaneous.
combo	I made the deposit to the wrong account which made me a bit nervous, but I was duly refunded when I came back.
combo	William my guide was very efficient and knowledgeable so I learn a lot about Rwanda in those 2 days.
combo	With regards to the gorilla experience, it is indeed very expensive but for me it was totally worth it even though 1 hour with them goes so fast!!!"
combo	"We were looking to do a gorilla trek, but we didn't know how to find a reliable, reputable company.
combo	Fortunately we found this Tripadvisor listing, so we trusted the reviews and booked with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	And the company was as outstanding as everyone here says.
combo	Nicholas was always quick to respond to our endless emails and questions.
combo	When we finally arrived for the tour in Rwanda, our guide Enos was fantastic!
combo	He was full of wisdom, kindness, and humor.
combo	Overall, the experience was magical.
combo	I'd call it a once-in-a-lifetime experience to trek through the jungles to see the gorillas, except for the fact that I would love to do it again.
combo	We actually did a 4-day tour with this company, going to see the chimps in Uganda as well.
combo	All the lodges were excellent - better than we expected, especially because we chose the budget option.
combo	I recommend this company highly!"
combo	"After much research we finally agreed to go with Gorilla Trek Africa for our weekend trip to the Volcanos national park in Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas.
combo	And we are so glad we chose them!
combo	Nicolas was very efficient in handling email queries, re-arranging when we had to change dates, and generally giving us all the information we could possibly want.
combo	Our driver, Chris, was punctual, obliging, courteous and an amazing source of knowledge on Rwandan history and life.
combo	And of course the gorilla experience was out of this world!
combo	Chris kept us informed about the whole procedure so it all went very smoothly.
combo	If (when) we return to Rwanda, we would not hesitate to use Gorilla Trek Africa again."
combo	"Look no further if you are wanting to explore & experience a customized SAFARI and see the most incredible country UGANDA.... and book it with this reliable experienced tour operator!
combo	We enjoyed 5 magnificent UGANDA National Parks which include Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and Lake Mburo and spent 9 days enjoying these spectacular places.
combo	So many stunning breathtaking animals that I cannot list all of them but our favorites where the Elephants, Zebras, Lions, African Buffalo, Giraffe, hippos, rhinos, chimpanzees, and of course the trek to see Gorillas (790 left in the World...400 in Uganda/Rwanda borders) and our small group was able to hang with the Kyagurilo family of 15!
combo	While I have not traveled to the other parts of Africa or the more well known places to safari/game drive...what I can say this place is it truly is the PEARL OF AFRICA and seems to be less traveled/better value than the more popular African tours.
combo	Gorilla Trek Africa was terrific to work with from start to finish!
combo	I started planning the trip only 45 days prior and had NO knowledge of the area and what this beautiful country has to offer.
combo	We enjoyed a customized, hand tailored trip based on our families budget, schedule, and top wish lists.
combo	We received excellent communications during the pre-planning stages & was able to get detailed questions answered from the home office in Africa as well as with a USA representative.
combo	We had a selection of Lodges & Tent Camps to choose from based on budget and service rated and Gorilla Trek worked with me to make sure all was perfect.
combo	It was also important for me to support a local tour operator and stay with in Uganda, even though this operator could have arrange other tours in Africa.
combo	The highlight of our trip was experiencing the most remarkable, extraordinary TOUR GUIDE & DRIVER ever in my lifetime.
combo	Muhumuza Rogers is one of Gorilla Treks guides/driver and we thoroughly enjoyed his professionalism, his leadership, and knowledge during our entire 9 day adventure.
combo	Rogers has a gift and talent in finding the most incredible animals, birds, sights, and sharing the details about each along with the history that Uganda has to offer.
combo	His passion and pride about his country and the gorgeous parks that we visited was what made this our trip of a lifetime.
combo	We toured in a very comfortable customized 4WD safari vehicle and had plenty of space for stretching out and relaxing while exploring the country.
combo	We had a cooler for our water & snacks, and he was very accommodating to our needs and stops along the way.
combo	Thank you Gorilla Trek Africa....Nicolas and Bill for the logistics, the planning, & the itinerary and ROGERS pulling it all together and making this phenomenal trip of a LIFETIME."
combo	Nicholas was very helpfull in every way and arranged for a perfect trip in all aspects.
combo	He answered patiently all my questions and emails very quickly with helpfull answeres and information.
combo	On the airport I was met by my driver / guide Chris who were equally helpfull and had a thouroughly good knowledge of everything from Rwandas history to its culture and animals.
combo	If I get the opportunity I most certainly will use Nicholas and his company again and I will have no trouble of asking for Chris as my driver again as well.
combo	I recommend Gorilla Trek Africa for all its worth.
combo	"I went to Rwanda in 2013 to fullfil a life-long dream of seeing the gorillas and the Gorilla Trek Africa agency organized the trip for me, it ended up being so good that I decided to comeback this year and take my daughter with me, doing it with the same agency.
combo	Our guide, Patrick, who I specifically asked for after a great tour on the first trip, accompanied us again to Rwanda and Uganda, and it was great again, he is very polite, has lots of knowledge of the countries, is very helpful and a great game seeker seeing he spotted two Tree Climbing Lions in Uganda for us!
combo	The overall experience was amazing and I'd definitely recommend the agency!"
combo	"From their back offices to tour guide, Gorilla Trek Africa is an A+ operator.
combo	Our bags were delayed by one day and Nicolas (tour manager) swiftly rearranged our tour.
combo	His responses to our inquiries were always prompt and helpful.
combo	We went on a five day tour with Enos as our guide.
combo	He was knowledgeable, hospitable, and a joy to be around.
combo	He went well above his duties and welcomed us like family.
combo	His driving skills on unpaved roads are impeccable.
combo	We were able to see chimpanzees and most specially, spent an hour viewing a gorilla family.
combo	This experience is one I'll keep close to my heart for sometime.
combo	The hike is strenuous, but the staff is supportive.
combo	The hike in the Impennetrable Bwindi forest was special in itself!
combo	In sum, I'd highly recommend this tour operator."
combo	"As usual my last minute planning meant that I didn't expect much in terms of being able to book a Gorilla trek.
combo	Fortunately Gorilla Trek Africa exists.
combo	A very quick and easy correspondence with Nicolas meant that everything was arranged in hours and to our convenience.
combo	We had a wonderful driver and guide called William, who was knowledgeable and really took care of us.
combo	He was a careful and courteous driver too which can sometimes be an issue.
combo	He also took time to make recommendations and explain not just about local life and what we were seeing and experiencing, but also took the time to check that we were comfortable and happy.
combo	When we actually arrived at the park for the trek, we were handed over to the park guides, trackers and security who were also fabulous.
combo	I had wondered about the seemingly high cost of doing a trek, but once there you realise just how much work goes into this, how many people are involved and how much the local community benefits, as well as the obvious contribution to conservation.
combo	So worth it!
combo	We were lucky enough to spend time with a group of around 15 gorillas who seemed very content and oblivious to our presence.
combo	It's difficult to describe just what a magical experience it was.
combo	I'll just add that the hike wasn't too far or difficult, but there are things like stinging nettles, so although it's warm do take something to cover your arms and legs sufficiently.
combo	Training shoes may pass if it's not muddy, but proper walking shoes are better.
combo	Oh, and take water.
combo	Otherwise thank you Gorilla Trek!!
combo	It's an experience that will stay with me for a long time!!!!"
combo	"Our guides were phenomenal.
combo	We got up close and personal with these creatures.
combo	We spent over an hour with the gorilla family chosen for us.
combo	The trackers were amazing, they have the best eyes for the hidden gorillas, and make you feel safe even though your heart is beating a thousand miles an hour with excitement.
combo	The hike up the mountain was treacherous, I mean treacherous.
combo	The climb back up from following the gorillas into a valley would have been impossible without my porter.
combo	You are automatically handed a walking stick and given a personal porter.
combo	Mine carried all of my gear(backpack, water, camera).
combo	You need BOTH hands free to climb and balance.
combo	My porter helped me navigate through steep muddy areas and literally PULLED me back up the mountain.
combo	I felt great kinship to him even tho he didn't speak English.
combo	We were able to get UNBELIEVABLE Pictures, up close and personal to the gorillas.
combo	It may have been one of the hardest things I've ever done, but I would do it again tomorrow to see those animals."
combo	"We booked this trip at the last minute and I can not fault anything.
combo	Our tour guide William was amazing, he really made this trip perfect.
combo	We were able to fit so much in 5 days!
combo	One of the best tours I have ever done!"
combo	"I can't say enough praise about Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	Nicolas is prompt and professional in coresponding.
combo	Our guide Rogers is an EXCELLENT guide!
combo	He is courteous, informative and a very safe driver.
combo	We asked him a million questions about local history, present day life, the animals, etc.
combo	We learned so much from Rogers.
combo	I've been on many other tours and haven't always has this high level of service.
combo	We had an important parcel get lost thru our Rwandair flight.
combo	Nicolas and his coworkers spent days tracking it down.
combo	If you are looking for a guide service to the Gorillas, Chimps, Rwanda or Uganda I would recommend looking no further and booking with Gorilla Trek Africa.
combo	You will be impressed."
combo	Guides are extremely helpful.
combo	Porters are so happy to help you - even had to carry my elderly friend.
combo	Definately worth to pay for a porter as it keeps the locals in work and doesnt cost very much at all.
combo	They will carry loose items and lend a hand when the going gets tough.
combo	Lovely people.
combo	The gorillas are absolutely amazing.
combo	Words can not express the feeling of these large creatures walking right next to you.
combo	Will definately be back!
combo	"First of all, dealing with Nicholas and Bill Williams (US rep) was outstanding.
combo	Our driver, William, was also top-notch.
combo	The gorillas themselves were simply amazing to see - after a short hike, we encountered a family of gorillas with three silverbacks, a very young baby, some highly active and rambunctious ""teens"" and doting mamas and aunts.
combo	We spent a full hour with these amazing creatures and I feel so blessed to have been invited in to see their lives.
combo	We got incredible photos and our guides took photos of us with the gorillas too.
combo	The guides were not only expert trackers, but great with people - they were so friendly, welcoming, and made sure our needs were met."
combo	"Nicholas was very easy to deal with & the trip organisation was perfect & tailored to our requests.
combo	Eric our guide was informative, very helpful & polite & looked after us each day-including getting the treks/groups we wanted.
combo	We loved the whole experience & would not hesitate to book with Gorilla Trek Africa again.
combo	Thanks again to Nicholas for helping us keep our original ccomodation booking when the Lodge tried to change it!"
combo	"My friend and I toured with Gorilla Trek Africa in Rwanda for 3 nights and 4 days.
combo	Two young women traveling alone could have been scary but William our guide was WONDERFUL!
combo	He kept us safe and made everything very enjoyable!
combo	He spoke perfect English so it was very easy to communicate.
combo	I booked everything with Nicholas and he was so patient dealing with my millions of questions and made the entire booking process easy!
combo	It was really nice to have Bill call from the states as well.
combo	Overall very professional, patient, and super fun experience!
combo	I would highly recommend this tour group to anyone!
combo	My friend will probably tour with them in her hopefully follow on trip to Uganda!
combo	Loved this!"
combo	We did a 7 day trip with mountainbikes.
combo	There is a new owner now (Octavio) who is not at all friendly.
combo	He tried to put in cheaper hotels than agreed.
combo	Watch out of you book that the price is as agreed.
combo	His staff (Albert and Rémy) was good and managed the trip well.
combo	The mountainbikes were good.
combo	"I went for 3 day bike trip from Gisenyi to Kibuye, part of the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	The route was challenging but doable even with little mountain biking experience.
combo	Scenery was very nice and the local kids were happy to see a muzungu on a bike.
combo	Equipment was good, no issues.
combo	The guide, Albert, was professional and accommodating.
combo	All in all, everything went smoothly and the experience was very nice.
combo	Be prepared for rain, though, as the weather can be unpredictable.
combo	The trail was not too muddy even though we had quite heavy rain on one day.
combo	Highly recommended!"
combo	"We had planned to cycle two days on the Congo Nile trail - from Kibuye to Gisenyi which is the reverse direction.
combo	Rwandan Adventures provided us with brand new Ebikes.
combo	The bikes had fabulous suspension, great brakes and plenty of battery capacity.
combo	Albert was our guide.
combo	On the first day - after 45 km I found the terrain too exhausting and Albert in conjunction with our tour guide managed to find a motor cycle in the middle of nowhere to pick me up and transport me to the hotel - I was so appreciative.
combo	On day two instead of returning to the trail Albert arranged a fabulous tarmac ride to Gisenyi which was so much fun!
combo	Thanks Albert for the fabulous memories.
combo	Cheers Anne & Mark New Zealand"
combo	"We wholeheartedly recommend Rwandan Adventures.
combo	Albert (our guide) and Onesphore (our driver) led our bike trip from Kigali to Gisenyi on excellent mountain bikes hired from Rwandan Adventures.
combo	They took us on unpaved back roads - we were glad to be on mountain bikes - through villages and towns, with almost no motor traffic.
combo	The three full days of cycling were a fantastic opportunity for us to see Rwanda outside the normal tourist areas.
combo	Albert and Onesphore not only navigated and looked after us, they introduced us to the people, geography, wildlife and plants of their country.
combo	Both spoke excellent English.
combo	We stayed in hotels that we would not have discovered without Rwandan Adventures - all clean and comfortable and with varying degrees of luxury (and price) available.
combo	We were impressed by their friendliness and the way that they treated everyone with dignity and courtesy.
combo	They even organised snack lunches from locally bought food, which they tailored to us as vegetarians.
combo	We were in Rwanda to take part in the inaugaral Ironman 70.3 triathlon, and with the help of Rwandan Advantures, we turned it into a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.
combo	Ottavio and Evelyn's put together a personalised itinerary for us, incorporating a trek at the Volcanoes National Park to see a family of mountain gorillas.
combo	Rwandan Adventures organised a specialist local guide, Patience, who took us to and from the park, and liaised with the guides and rangers).
combo	All the team at Rwandan Adventures looked after us very well, and we would certainly recommend them to family and friends."
combo	"Rwanda is called the country of thousands hills for a good reason.
combo	It was an amazing experience to go up and down from those green hills, being surrounded by banana plantations and the greetings of the children of the village who try to run some meters next to you.
combo	Our amazing guides Arbert & Leverien gave us excellent guidance during our 3-day trip from Kibuye to Gisenyi.
combo	We had no mountainbike experience at all, but nevertheless managed to deal smooth with the heights and rocky roads.
combo	The bikes were in excellent conditions."
combo	Very well organized mountainbike tour on the congo-nile-trail.
combo	Our guide Arbert had everything under control.
combo	Would definitely recommend it!
combo	Great Ride with Leandre through villages around Musanze.
combo	We rented a variety of bikes some electric and we were met at our hotel with the bikes and began our bike tour right from the hotel.
combo	Super interesting riding through the villages seeing all the local people.
combo	Great tour.
combo	We had a great morning out with Leandre and the crew!
combo	We were a large family with a few kids and several adults - we ultimately split up with one advanced biker staying with Leandre all the way down to the bottom.
combo	"We went on a bike ride with Leandre from Musanze to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
combo	We were tired from a big hike the day before, but the bikes were high quality and Leandre kept a good pace for us to complete the ride.
combo	Great stops on the way to explain some of the sites and culture.
combo	Great guide, beautiful scenery, great memory!"
combo	"A fantastic bike ride with Leandre.
combo	Great terrain, fabulous views, very professional.
combo	I highly recommend them if you are into mountain biking!"
combo	"The trip of a lifetime.
combo	Rwanda Adventures are professional and organized, yet flexible to allow you to tailor your trip.
combo	I did the two day Congo Nile bike trail (Kibuye to Gyseni- so backwards).
combo	I did it with two very fit male friends and the guide was able to accommodate their speed - let them go ahead, while staying behind with me.
combo	This was not an easy ride.
combo	I am - I’d say- in average shape, have done a few overnight bike rides over the years and this was hard.
combo	So if you’re not up for it- take an ebike/ hike instead/ tailor your trip some other way.
combo	I’d recommend the company purchase some lights for the bikes.
combo	I know technically we are not allowed to ride in the dark in Rwanda , but in case of emergencies- this would be very helpful.
combo	I’d recommend anyone going on the trip to hire a guide.
combo	He/she knows the local terrain, can talk to people , you’ll get a more authentic experience and support local economy rather than just be some weird Muzungu going through Rwandan villages :) Will definitely book with Rwandan Adventures again"
combo	"Great company, great guide, great adventure!
combo	The team were organised and responsive right from us making the initial enquiry until the very end of our trip.
combo	The Congo Nile route is beautiful.
combo	It is quite hilly, so if you're not a strong cyclist the company offers e-bike rental which makes it much more comfortable.
combo	Overall a really great trip.
combo	This is our second time using Rwanda Adventures and we have not been disappointed.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	"When we prepared our trip to Rwanda we talked to several operators - Rwandan Adventures stood out already then.
combo	The availability and service focus during the preparation phase continued during the trip - fantastic!
combo	Moreso, we discussed with Leandre, our coordinator and guide, what we like doing (mainly focused on meeting real people in their daily lives) and he turned the itinerary around to make sure we experience what we like - flexible, attentive and always smiling.
combo	We had an amazing experience.
combo	They even mapped a biking trail along the Congo Nile Trail that fits our level.
combo	Best operators ever!"
combo	"The team at Rwandan Adventures was thorough, helpful, kind, and arranged a wonderful time in Rwanda during my Feb/March 2021 stay.
combo	Leandre was supremely helpful and knowledgeable in answering all of my questions and offering travel tips at every stop along the journey.
combo	He's very well connected and an excellent communicator.
combo	The Congo Nile trail was a highlight of the trip and I highly recommend booking with Rwandan Adventures (specifically the Gisenyi-Kibuye 4 day hiking trip, though the biking also looks quite fun!).
combo	Kuzungu provided delicious meals and excellent hospitality through RA.
combo	A real treat to spend time with him.
combo	Additionally if you have time in Musanze, get in touch with Olivier for some excellent hiking around the Twin Lakes, though he guides all around Rwanda as well.
combo	:) A complete professional who brought energy and fun to the entire experience.
combo	And for any transportation needs, you can't ask for anyone better than Patience.
combo	Always on time, always safe, clear, and a joy to be around.
combo	Thank you to the whole RA team for an incredible journey!"
combo	"Way overdue to leave a review for RA as it was a really amazing experience.
combo	Guides were friendly, professional and sporty and the trails they chose gave us a beautiful vista of surrounding regions.
combo	Almost felt like a Safari.
combo	Will definitely choose Rwandan Adventures again for more sightseeing and outdoor activities when Im back in the region.
combo	Thanks for the unforgettable memories, guys!"
combo	"We booked the tour on very short notice; but Rwandan Adventures were swift in arranging our tour despite the current Covid-situation.
combo	The day before the hike began, we took them up on their offer to stay at their AirBnB; which meant a great start to the hike (including lovely food & huge room!).
combo	We hiked the 4-days Congo Nile Trail trek starting from Gisenyi (Rubavu); and what a hike!
combo	The first two days went by in a flash; but halleluja, the third day was demanding.
combo	We had a highly proficient and engaging guide, who was able to show us several shortcuts & help us along the route.
combo	Definetely considering repeating the succes; but we might, for the next time, split day three into two - which would allow more time to enjoy the view at Bumba.
combo	Full recommendations from us!"
combo	"I rode the Congo Nile from Gisenyi to Karongi in January of 2021 with Rwandan Adventures.
combo	It was a well organized tour and a great opportunity to cycle one of the most scenic routes in Rwanda.
combo	My guide was very knowledgeable of the culture, surroundings and the trail itself.
combo	Also, there was constant communication with Leandre before/during the ride to ensure the best trip possible.
combo	I highly recommend Rwandan Adventures for this itinerary or other adventures!"
combo	"Leandre is a great guide, very knowledgeable, gave lots of great advice and even connected me with a local cycle group.
combo	Thank you 👍.
combo	The route is beautiful and it is great to see rural Kigali on 2 wheels.
combo	Due to my experience and fitness level I could have done with a break and stop for lunch earlier.
combo	And in hindsight should have asked for more details of the route.
combo	I would definitely book another tour with Leandre and Rwandan adventures again."
combo	"Some superb views on the trail, and Leandre and Leon were great company as well as knowledgeable.
combo	The ebikes were pricey but fantastic bits of kit, and made the experience altogether more relaxing and enjoyable, although still leaving me with the feeling each day that I had definitely done some exercise (I’m 58 so felt I deserved one).
combo	If I had taken an ordinary bike the ride would have taken me twice as long and would have left me feeling completely wiped out each day.
combo	The hills are steep and the road very stony in places.
combo	We went north to south, and because I had a car we missed out the long climb from Rubengera on the tarmac and started at Bumba Camp instead.
combo	A bit of a cheat but I had driven the road the day before and didn’t need to witness it from a bicycle.
combo	Anyway, it was fun doing the whole cycle off road away from cars.
combo	The stay at Kinunu Coffee station was very chilled.
combo	The best coffee I’ve had, and food was good wholesome local fare.
combo	I’ve lived on a coffee farm but still found the Coffee tour really interesting.
combo	Eric the guide and barman is a knowledgeable and very nice guy.
combo	The value of having Leandre to guide was exemplified when I left my phone at the guest house by mistake and we’d done 4 or 5km downhill the next morning before I realised that I didn’t have it with me.
combo	He called Eric and he found it and sent it to me via a motorbike taxi.
combo	Very kind of all concerned.
combo	An unexpected luxury was having a shower at Rwandan Adventure’s house which they use as a base in Rubavu, before driving back to Kigali.
combo	As I said earlier - Leandre and Leon are great company, the views were lovely, and just being away from cars for a couple of days under my own steam (almost!
combo	made for a great couple of days.
combo	The only touch of reality is that the cost may put off some people I think.
combo	But if it’s a one-off, then go for it!"
combo	"Really enjoyed my day out with Leandre, who was very knowledgeable and an excellent companion for my day in the saddle.
combo	Gives you a glimpse of the real Rwanda.
combo	You need to be pretty fit!"
combo	"We enjoyed an amazing fortnight with Rwandan Adventures who organised our entire visit around this amazing country.
combo	During our trip we enjoyed seeing the abundance of wildlife - the gorillas a highlight naturally!
combo	stunning mountainous scenery and even went on a couple of e-bike tours that took us along dirt roads, past tiny villages and beautiful lake vistas.
combo	Our guides were always informative and our driver Patience made the trip even more memorable with his reliability, humour and knowledge."
combo	"If you need support, advice or an organized journey including high quality (mt)bikes, this is your heaven.
combo	Insightful, friendly and experienced staff that help you to juggle the challenges & beauty that the Congo Nile Trail offers on bike!"
combo	"Great fun - Leandre was a great guide - really knowledgeable about a wide range of Rwandan stuff- culture, history, zoology and very willing to share it.
combo	The cycle was a nice mix of city, villages and countryside.
combo	Along the river at Gahanga was really pretty and peaceful.
combo	It’s not too tough a cycle for regular cyclists, but some of the hills at the end of a 60km cycle were tough, and I walked bits of them ( I’m late 50’s and reasonably active but haven’t cycled for ages).
combo	Leandre was a great motivator but also read my tiredness really well and was always alongside me, and went with my pace.
combo	Altogether highly recommended.
combo	Tiny negative - bike could have been better set up.
combo	Not all gears worked smoothly and very occasionally jammed, but not a major issue.
combo	Take lots of water and sunscreen!"
combo	"Spent the day Leandre, one of the tourguides, who gave me and a friend a fantastic day-long cycle tour just outside of Kigali - from the centre to the suburbs and then to rural areas, all along giving us a wealth of information about Rwanda.
combo	The bikes they've got are really good - my friend wasn't feeling great so they even whipped out an electric mountain bike for her to use on the steeper climbs, so we all got to the end in good spirits and not too tired.
combo	Definitely bring sun cream!
combo	We forgot and our arms were pretty tender for some days after.... completely our own fault though :-).
combo	Great way to spend the day, highly recommended."
combo	"Stunning 3-day ride along the shores of lake Kivu.
combo	All smoothly organized by Rwandan adventures.
combo	I had a fantastic friendly guide, Leon, that shared a lot of insights on Rwanda."
combo	Many thanks rwandan adventures for a wonderful trip.
combo	Amazing views and the best way to explore the local area.
combo	The trip was super speedily organised and the equipment was top notch.
combo	My guide Albert was really knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable.
combo	Thoroughly recommended!
combo	"Had a great experience biking from Gisenyi to Kibuye alongside Lake Kivu.
combo	Good quality material, responsive in planning and very helpful support from Albert joining me on the way.
combo	Extremely challenging, but very much worth the magnificent views and local connection."
combo	"Rwandan Adventures provided a great and easy going service with quality bikes kept in good conditions.
combo	We chose to do it with a chaperone but we had a guide since the chaperone got sick, Albert was great!
combo	We really enjoyed chatting with him and another people and he kept at good pace and waited for me when I slowed down.
combo	As per the trail, “challenging” is not a understatement.
combo	There are a lot of mountain biking sections and of course hills (one of them continues for about an hour).
combo	I don’t think the direction (i.e.
combo	Ginseyi vs Kibuye) makes a difference.
combo	It’s gorgeous, fun and worth all the effort.
combo	I suggest 3 days not because the difficulty but because the stay at Bumba has an amazing view ( + you also help the community)."
combo	"So pleased I used Rwandan Adventures’ services!
combo	I live in Kigali and wanted to explore the back roads on bike with a visiting friend.
combo	I needed to rent good quality bikes as the back roads have tough terrain and the uphill climbs are steep.
combo	I decided to use Rwandan Adventures as they’ve always had a good reputation.
combo	I couldn’t have been happier!
combo	I got quick and reliable service, which included them dropping off and picking up the bikes (with helmets).
combo	Me and my friend are both novices and we’re able to combat the notorious hills and had an unforgettable adventure.
combo	Thank you!!"
combo	A group of four of us rented bikes from Rwanda Adventures and had an absolute blast exploring the area around Kigali by bike.
combo	Having mountain bikes was great because a lot of roads are dirt or cobblestone.
combo	The Rwanda Adventures team was really helpful about recommending a route.
combo	We had a blast!
combo	Would highly recommend this for a day in Kigali!
combo	"This trip is great if you're doing alone or as a group.
combo	I'm not an experienced cyclist and was able to complete the route (while taking breaks here and there).
combo	My tour guide was patient and happy to go at my pace.
combo	There is a longer route option for experienced cyclists looking for a challenge.
combo	The scenes include all the beautiful hills of Musanze, passing by farmers and learning about all the crops they grow, small villages and of course, the Twin Lakes.
combo	Overall, I really enjoyed my trip and Rwandan Adventures were very professional and organised."
combo	"I had just a few hours to spend on an activity in Gisenyi and wanted to get a feel for the place.
combo	Rwanda Adventures brought a mountain bike in excellent condition round to my hotel within an hour plus helmet.
combo	My guide Olivier was Rwandan and gave me options for the routes we could do in the 3 hours we had.
combo	I went for biking the Congo Nile trail even though it would normally need much longer.
combo	Oliver managed to find a way for me to see stunning vistas over Lake Kivu, in addition to cycling off road through various villages where I got to see how Rwandans in this part of the country lived.
combo	I also got to see the traditional fishing boats of Kivu.
combo	On the journey Olivier told me about the area, the lake and translated the greetings shouted by locals at us!
combo	At the end of the trip Oliver found me a lift with a local motorcycle taxi for a cheap price which was fun in itself.
combo	Gisenyi is hilly like the rest of Rwanda and the climbs could be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
combo	I highly recommend doing the Congo Nile trail with Rwandan Adventures."
combo	"We hired mountain bikes from RA for 5 days to do the Congo Nile trail by ourselves from South to NOrth.
combo	A pretty ambitious feat.
combo	RA were great at delivering the bikes in time and resolving some minor issues we had with our booking.
combo	It would have been great of we had a map from them, but with the help of the friendly locals, some sign language and a fantastic app with the routes which synced with google maps, we were completely fine.
combo	An absolutely breathtaking experience."
combo	We had a great time biking from the Rubona peninsula all the way up to the top of the hill and then visiting the Pfunda Tea Estate.
combo	The tour was supposed to last half a day but we took a bit longer...but our guides Sylvie and Albert were really patient.
combo	We had a great experience with them!
combo	We definitely recommend!
combo	The guys at Rwandan Adventures were extremely helpful in designing and advising on my trip and very flexible in supporting my requirements for one way bicycle hire.
combo	All at a reasonable price.
combo	"Fantastic organization from the team at Rwandan Adventures!
combo	Everything ran like clockwork and we had a lovely full day on Lake Kivu and a guided tour of Kinunu Coffee Estate, followed by lunch at a near by hotel.
combo	Very awesome experience and definitely recommended!"
combo	"Did a 1-day bike tour in Musanze, was incredibly well organized and really appreciated the guidance from our guide Olivier - he really went the extra mile.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"We stayed in Rubona for only two days but wanted to experience a bit of the Congo Nile trail.
combo	Rwandan adventures organised a wonderful day of hiking on short notice (we just dropped by their office the day before).
combo	Olivier, our guide, was very friendly and knowledgeable about Rwanda and the surrounding countryside.
combo	When we told him we were going to Uganda he gave us tipps and helped us find transportation.
combo	We walked for a couple of ours through beautiful fields and small idyllic villages.
combo	the children were greeting us along the way and people were friendly and open.
combo	all in all we had a very interesting day and also a bit of workout although the hike was rather easy.
combo	Thanks Rwandan adventures!
combo	Can absolutely recommend it!
combo	Btw, They also organise loads of other activities especially biking."
combo	thank you rwandan adventures for the professional service and the great experience.
combo	your mountain bikes are up to date and in great shape.
combo	the transfer of our luggage also worked perferctly.
combo	Had a great time cycling around Kigali with Rwandan Adventures.
combo	They are knowledgeable and were able to balance the different skill levels of our group to select a route that was both challenging and manageable for all of us.
combo	The CNT is a great tour to indulge in the rural life of Rwanda.
combo	We did it in 5 days from Gisenyi to Cyangugu.
combo	We greatly enjoyed our cycling trip with Rwandan Adventures.
combo	Olivier was a fantastic guide who did everything to make our trip unforgettable - even cooking!
combo	The e-bike is a great addition which makes the trail doable for most people.
combo	Weather was very comfortable in November.
combo	Rwanda has more than 1000 hills for sure!
combo	"I absolutely loved our four-day hike.
combo	It was perfect.
combo	Super challenging but with incredible views, friendly guide (Olivier is awesome!
combo	), hospitable accommodations, and delicious food, I couldn't have asked for more as we trekked through the Rwandan countryside.
combo	You won't get bored, and Rwandan Adventures takes care of all of the logistics, which makes it easy for you to just hike along and enjoy!"
combo	"echo the positive comments about this trail.
combo	We did Gesinyi to Kibuye over 3 days on bikes through Rwandan Adventures.
combo	We were initially quoted $900 for fully guided everything included.
combo	After more queries they offered their chaporroned tour where we pay for meals and accommodation for $380 for 2 people.
combo	This is good value as it's still guided.
combo	Roger, our guide was great.
combo	Interacting with all the kids and adults enroute was fun.
combo	If you don't want to do that then maybe do something else.
combo	The bikes were good.
combo	Make no mistake this is a VERY hilly bike ride.
combo	The climbs are long and if its hot can be very gruelling ( we are bike fit).
combo	Also some of the dirt roads are quite rough.
combo	Regardless it's a great way to experience Rwanda."
combo	"We had an excellent 3 days bike-trip, starting in Kibuye to Gisenyi, together with our guide Roger, who did a great job.
combo	Day 2 was really really hard but finally we did it and were so happy!"
combo	"We did a combined MTB and trekking trip.
combo	We biked one direction along the trail for two days and then walked back over three days.
combo	We really enjoyed ourselves.
combo	It was our second time using Rwandan adventures and they were great both times.
combo	They were very responsive to emails, very flexible and everything went exactly to plan on both trips.
combo	I would highly recommend one of their trips."
combo	"We were staying in Rubona, and decided to book a day of MTB tour to see the tea plantation.
combo	We contacted them requesting a half day tour, which was $60/person USD.
combo	On their website we noticed that it was $80 for a full day.
combo	We felt tour should have been slightly cheaper, considering it was only a half day tour and no meal needed to be provided.
combo	Bikes were Scott front suspension mountain bikes.
combo	They were fairly new models.
combo	They were in good shape (keep in mind you're in Africa).
combo	They are fairly well tuned, front shocks needed service.
combo	To be fair, it is probably unreasonable to expect they have the equipment to do this here.
combo	They worked well for the ride we were on.
combo	We found the uphill portions of trip to be very long and intense.
combo	We bike quite a bit but are not used to these inclines.
combo	It is not a negative but just want others to be forewarned!
combo	Our guide Olivier was great.
combo	He was fun to hang out with and talk to.
combo	He had lots of bottled water ready for us.
combo	He was patient, allowed us to take breaks and stop for pics whenever we wanted.
combo	The scenery is stunning.
combo	Can't be beat.
combo	Riding home on the trail through villages was an experience in itself.
combo	Dodging animals, kids and people.
combo	It was some fun terrain, not too technical but you could really get up some speed and have fun on the rutted out areas.
combo	The tea plantation tour was super informative and fun.
combo	No where in Canada would you be allowed to walk through the middle of a manufacturing plant, and get to be so hands on.
combo	Our guide here was great."
combo	"Simply put, the bike tour of Kigali made my experience.
combo	I got to see parts of the city that I would have otherwise missed, but most importantly I was able to see the outskirts, the rural and suburban areas around Kigali, which are stunningly beautiful, and the people are incredibly nice, especially the children.
combo	Jado was my guide, and he knows his country, his city, and its history very well, and speaks English and French fluently, which made for an enlightening and enriching experience.
combo	He is also a very friendly and fun person to spend the day with.
combo	I highly recommend this for anyone traveling in Kigali!"
combo	"Superb trip.
combo	Jedo was an awesome and engaging guide, very resourceful and always energetic and positive and up for anything.
combo	Katie was super helpful when plans changed at the last minute.
combo	Highly recommend them for this adventure."
combo	Two day trip along the Congo Nile trail.
combo	The riding was fantastic and was well organized by the Joanna and the team at Rwandan adventures.
combo	They knew all the good lunch spots and chose an excellent guesthouse next to a coffee plantation that was also a great place for swimming after hot day of riding.
combo	The track although tough is extremely rewarding and features stunning views of the lake.
combo	The bikes that Rwandan Adventures use are excellent Scott brand bikes that are well maintained (unlike others I saw).
combo	Definitely recommend the trail if you are fit enough and definitely recommend Rwandan adventures to guide you through.
combo	"Went on a bike tour with them and it was a great experience, really new bikes and overall one of the best experiences we had whilst by Lake Kivu.
combo	Really recommend them- but maybe avoid the boat ride back!"
combo	"Rwanda Adventure arranges the truly wonderful walk along lake Kivu, the Congo-Nile trail, and they do a marvellous job.
combo	Beauiful scenary and a unforgettable experience, highly recommended."
combo	"Had a great adventure with Rwanda Adventures.
combo	The riding was very enjoyable.
combo	Incredible views!
combo	We did the Congo-Nile trail in 2 days, but there's a 3 day option available for those who are concerned about the distances.
combo	My guide, Olivier, was excellent; very professional and very entertaining.
combo	I was blown away by how beautifully Rwanda has developed in just 24 years since the horrible genocide.
combo	It exceed my expectations.
combo	Having traveled a lot in East Africa, I was amazed by how immaculately clean Rwanda is.
combo	There is virtually no litter anywhere!
combo	I highly recommend Rwandan Adventures!"
combo	"We had a really great time biking to the twin lakes.
combo	We went with our 8 and 9 year old boys and they loved this great adventure!
combo	Excellent guide Olivier who made our experience even better.
combo	It took us almost 3 hours to reach the lake, then we had a fun boat ride and stopped somewhere for a great lunch,we took another boat ride and it took us another 3 hours to bike back to Musanze.
combo	Some hills are quite tough to ride so expect some little suffering.
combo	;-) We were really surprised our kids managed this without any complaints.
combo	They really loved it!
combo	We will do this again!
combo	Thank you for the great experience!"
combo	"The Congo-Nile trail is absolutely amazing.
combo	The first day the biking is great (not easy) and the views are stunning.
combo	The second day the views and the nature are even better!
combo	As if you travel through paradise.
combo	The last part of the biking is so hard that you need to walk at least parts of it (climbing a mountain).
combo	The third day is a short day, biking mainly downhill over a paved road with less interesting views.
combo	The bikes are in excellent condition."
combo	"I did not bring a bike with me to Kigali, but wanted to do some biking around Kigali.
combo	Rwanda adventures and Joanna, specifically, were great!
combo	She wad much more accommodating than expected!
combo	She delivered the bike to me, offered great advice on routes to Muhazi, and was generally just a pleasure to work with.
combo	The bike was in good condition and offered a great ride.
combo	Would definitely recommend!"
combo	On my own.
combo	Bike dropped at the hotel.
combo	Biked a little bit more than 50 km.
combo	Kigali is hilly.
combo	Nice bike.
combo	Joanna was very helpful.
combo	Biked picked up at the hotel.
combo	Fantastic.
combo	"My adult daughter and I did the two-day walk to the two lakes, strolling through the lush green countryside (it was October and the short rainy season, so everything was green).
combo	Our walk with Yannick was one of the highlights of our trip to Rwanda.
combo	We loved the contact with people, especially the children.
combo	People working in the fields always waved to us and the little kids gathered around giggling and walking stretches with us.
combo	As an avid gardener, I was so interested in the crops and gardening methods we saw being practiced on every inch of ground!
combo	The terrain is very hilly and we got some wonderful views.
combo	Yannick was attentive to our needs before we voiced them and kept a walking pace that suited us.
combo	It seems he perfectly judged our capacity and tailored the walk to our ability and preference.
combo	The over night accommodation at the Lake Ruhondo Beach Lodge was also perfect!
combo	And communication with Joanna at Rwandan Adventures was always informative and easy.
combo	We already felt lots of confidence before even leaving Canada!
combo	Thanks so much!"
combo	"We really enjoyed our 3 day trip on the Congo Nile trial!
combo	The staff is helpful and flexible, bikes are in perfect condition and brand new.
combo	Our guide Marcel was simply perfect, guiding and informing us through the amazing landscape and joyful colorful villages.
combo	This is a great experience, but I would recommend you are in good shape :)"
combo	"We had an absolutely amazing time doing the one day cycle along the Congo Nile trail.
combo	The staff were very helpful, ever since we made first contact, and everything was organised for us upon our arrival.
combo	Marcel the guide was excellent, a big help and very knowledgeable.
combo	He is also the fittest person in the world!
combo	The day was amazing, we saw some outstanding views and got to experience a different side to the country that I had never seen before.
combo	The guest house at the end of the cycle was lovely, good food and a great place to chill after a long day of cycling.
combo	the ""Ferry"" back the next morning is an experience to say the least... but never the less an enjoyable one.
combo	I would recommend doing one of these trips to anybody, especially If you fancy doing something a little bit different and want to see another side of the country we all love."
combo	"Just completed a two day journey from Gisenyi to Kibuye.
combo	I would suggest 3 days if you have the time.
combo	The brand new mountain bikes were the real deal but perhaps the greatest part of the experience was our guide Marcel, an absolute stellar guide with a never ending smile."
combo	"Joanna was very helpful from the first moment that we contacted her.
combo	Rwandan Adventures offers a whole range of bike tours, including the famous Congo-Nile Trail, one of the highlights of our Rwandan trip.
combo	Fantastic sceneries and experience, highly recommended!"
combo	"We had a two day biking trip up to the Twin Lakes outside Musanze, Rwanda.
combo	Back roads and pavement.
combo	Perfect.
combo	It was beautiful, fun and hard work.
combo	We went as a family w/three kids, ages 16, 14 and 11.
combo	Our guide, Olivier, was constantly adjusting the route to make sure everyone could manage.
combo	We broke into two groups.
combo	One taking a beautiful boat ride that cut 15 KM of hills off the trip.
combo	Only problem, it ended too soon.
combo	A bit too expensive too really...
combo	But could have gone a few more days.
combo	Highly recommended for individuals or families."
combo	We did an all day day hike that started from one of the downtown areas.
combo	we hiked to Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera.
combo	It was a wonderful hike and took a good part of the day between hiking and driving.
combo	Our guide was great.
combo	"My husband and I rented mountain bikes from Katie and the team to cycle the Congo nile trail to nyungwe.
combo	We didn't want a guide and wanted to carry our own gear so had a lot of questions.
combo	Katie and Diane were incredibly helpful answering all my questions in advance and then helping us with a flexible plan of places to stay along the route.
combo	We had a great trip and I'd seriously recommend it to anyone considering a more adventurous way to see some of Rwanda.
combo	The route, especially day two, was really excellent."
combo	"The path has a lot of very beautiful sights.
combo	But I must warn, it's more for people who are into more athletic biking.
combo	Its physically demanding and the other people I was with quit after the first day.
combo	I also find the price to be a bit high for what the experience entails."
combo	"Rwandan adventures perfectly organized our biking tour around the Twin Lakes.
combo	Katie and Obed were great guides and took good care of the 6 of us.
combo	We had different biking levels but the rhythm of the tour allowed us to enjoy every second of it (albeit a little less in the tough ascents :p).
combo	Scenery was incredible, Food was good, location of the accommodation was on point and we particularly enjoyed Obed's Yoga sessions at the end of each day.
combo	It was very professionally organized and we definitely recommend a biking tour with them!"
combo	"Yesterday I went on the Musanze Twin Lakes trail and had an absolutely amazing experience.
combo	Setting up the trip was super easy, and RA was very flexible with what I needed.
combo	They ran the trip with just me signed up, too!
combo	My guide, Marcel, spoke great English and was very fun to talk to during the ride.
combo	When I fell and scraped up my arm (totally my fault), he did a great job cleaning me up and encouraging me to keep going.
combo	There were plenty of drinks and snacks, and Marcel made sure I was always hydrated and full.
combo	I made the whole trip in 6 hours, and easily came to and from Kigali in the same day.
combo	Very doable and very worth it.
combo	The trip was beautiful, amazinglly fun, and just exactly challenging enough to keep me entertained and happy.
combo	I highly recommend this company, the Musanze Twin Lakes Trail, and Marcel in particular as a guide."
combo	"I was in a 2 days trip on mountain bike rented at their agency.
combo	great service, great tips and they even made sure I was safe and Ok by waiting for me until 10PM.
combo	Thanks for that."
combo	"Rwandan Adventures perfectly outfitted us for our 5-day, self-guided, self-supported Congo Nile Trail biking adventure.
combo	The bikes were decent and the service was superb.
combo	We had a technical issue with one of the bikes on Day 1, and they immediately came to the rescue and replaced the whole bike!
combo	They also gave us a map and enough information to get through the difficult trails and still enjoy the magnificent views of Lake Kivu, both on and off the bikes.
combo	The recommended stops and accommodations were great.
combo	But be careful with Hotel des Chutes (not recommended).
combo	The only reason we used it is because we had to drop off/handover the bikes to them, which is our final destination.
combo	Otherwise, everything was perfect."
combo	"These guys are good, reliable and flexible.
combo	A good mix!
combo	We've used them a couple of times and always enjoyed it.
combo	They are not given away but i feel they deliver so it's definitely worth it!
combo	The guides are chatty and knowledgeable.
combo	A couple of points of advice with all guided routes in rwanda: 1 - double check the itinerary with the guide at the start of your walk.
combo	A few itineraries start from the same place so a small misunderstanding or break down in comms could mean you head off the wrong way 2 - Check with the booking office and guide what transport options exist from the end of the walk and check if the guide has numbers for a couple of motos and taxis."
combo	We rented two mountainbikes to make a self-guided trip around Kigali.
combo	It was very nice thanks to the good quality of the bikes and the flexibility of Rwandan Adventures!
combo	My partner and i did the 3 day mountain bike trip on the Congo Nile trail with Rwandan Adventures and had a fabulous trip.
combo	Our guide Marcel was a super chaperone really helpful and easy going and clearly knew the trail and biking well.
combo	Diana in the office was lovely and helpful too.
combo	The biking itself was superb.
combo	Such a great experience.
combo	All in all a super experience.
combo	"Hired a mountain bike in Kigali from RA and used it for a self-guided morning trip around the hills and villages south of Kigali.
combo	It was excellent, nice bike with no problems.
combo	They provided a GPX map of the route which was easy to follow.
combo	I think RA are the only source of a MTB to hire in Kigali.
combo	I really enjoyed it, would love to do a longer trip sometime in future."
combo	"Wonderful weekend and as other reviewers have mentioned a great opportunity to see real Rwanda.
combo	It was extremely well organised from start to finish.
combo	Marcel was a superb guide and the scenery like all of Rwanda was amazing.
combo	Thanks, Rwandan Adventures *****"
combo	"Did the two day Twin Lakes biking trip with Rwandan Adventures a few weekends ago and loved it!
combo	It was such a fun, beautiful and interesting few days.
combo	The best way to see Rwanda and its gorgeous scenery and people and a great workout too!
combo	Would definitely recommend the trip for anyone wanting to see Rwanda by bike."
combo	"Expertly organised.
combo	Beautiful views.
combo	Even for a day - you must get out with Rwandan Adventures when for a proper explore!
combo	Perfect mix of adventure, beauty and exercise!"
combo	"My friends and I completed the 3 day bike trip from Gisenyi to Kibuye in August this year.
combo	We had two 'porters' (Marcel and Bosko) who carried our belongings in 4 panniers each.
combo	Looking back the trip was absolutely fantastic - at the time I thought that I was going to die!
combo	This was partly to do with the heat, but I think it is fair to say that it was an extremely difficult cycle ride (but please keep in mind that I'm in my 50s and my normal cycling distance is about 5 miles), so it was definitely a shock to the system.
combo	Anyway, despite this, I did it and feel tremendously proud that I did!
combo	The views along the trip were spectacular and it was a great opportunity to see and appreciate rural life in Rwanda.
combo	During the ride we were followed (or rather, swarmed) by lots of children and adults at every stop, but this was not intimidating at all.
combo	I would suggest that anyone wanting to do this cycle ride should consider doing an 'Iron man' as a warm up or maybe cycle up Ben Nevis!
combo	but seriously, it was a very hard cycle ride and not for the faint hearted!
combo	For general information - we stayed at Inzu Lodge prior to starting the ride and this was a lovely place (see separate review).
combo	It was a 5 minute walk to the Rwandan Adventures centre.
combo	We chose to cycle to Kibuye and then get the boat back to Gisenyi.
combo	We weren't quite sure what would happen to our luggage, but basically it stayed in a locked room in the Rwandan Adventures office.
combo	We were able to take our essentials for the 3 days and this was put in a pannier which was carried by the guides.
combo	If you don't want to travel back to Gisenyi your baggage will be taken by boat to Kibuye where you will be reunited with it at the end of the trip.
combo	Anyway, in either case there is no need to take a lot of luggage - some basic toiletries, first aid, camera, sun tan lotion and a change of clothes for the evening.
combo	Maybe swimming costumes because there is an opportunity to swim in the lake.
combo	Daytime clothes can be washed and will dry over night (or certainly this worked in August) maybe in the rainy season (Sept - Nov) this may not be possible.
combo	Re; money, the only money that you need on the trip is to buy drinks in the evening.
combo	There are no shops en route, so no opportunity to buy anything else.
combo	Word of caution, particularly for ladies - if you need to use the toilet on the journey be prepared for some very basic amenities!!
combo	I would also recommend wearing proper cycling shorts - a good investment!
combo	Overall Rwandan Adventures was very well organised, We had wonderful guides who were polite, friendly and helpful at all times.
combo	We had simple, but ample food on the trip and our guides kept us well hydrated with lots of water and regular breaks.
combo	Although we weren't quite sure how the trip would work out both in terms of our ability to complete the journey but also the logistics of getting our belongings from A to B, but it all worked out absolutely fine.
combo	We had a terrific trip and it was well worth the money.
combo	I would definitely do it, or something similar again."
combo	"We had spent two days gorilla trekking and had one further full day in the area.
combo	We wanted an experience that, while different, would be as rewarding.
combo	I had read (and seen some beautiful photographs) of the nearby Twin Lakes and set about trying to organize a day mountain biking around them.
combo	Although this was not a standard itinerary offered by Rwandan Adventures they were enthusiastic about helping us organize it.
combo	This was quite brave on their part as to some extent we were breaking new ground.
combo	We were not disappointed by the enthusiasm and support of the Rwandan Adventures staff.
combo	Marcel was heroic as our guide and Kavos (in our support vehicle) was always helpful and encouraging when required.
combo	The scenery really was beautiful and the local people we met along the route were both curious and friendly.
combo	We felt we were fortunate to have had the opportunity to explore such a beautiful but less visited part of the country.
combo	If there was a shortcoming it was that as a family we slightly overestimated the distance we could cover.
combo	I understand from Joanna that the company is hoping soon to be able to put the bikes on a trailer.
combo	I believe this will open up a huge number of possibilities.
combo	For example in the case of the Twin Lakes it would be possible to choose both the starting and finishing points thereby tailoring the length of the ride to the group.
combo	Travelling by bike in Rwanda is a great way to appreciate the country and its people.
combo	I hope that we will have further opportunities to do so future and would have no hesitation in organizing this through Rwandan Adventures."
combo	"My husband and I biked the Congo-Nile trail in 3 days from Gisenyi to Kibuye in March 2016.
combo	We had a porter with us, Marcel, and were joined by an American and her porter Papa Lucile.
combo	We had an awesome time and I highly recommend this trip.
combo	The trip is tough though!!!
combo	The reviews I read in advance were accurate - we are both in good shape but I really struggled on day 1 with all the hills and biking in the heat.
combo	You need to take proper precautions against heat stroke: manage your pace, drink lots, cover up!
combo	The first day was by far the toughest mentally and physically.
combo	Our American friend wanted to quit and I wouldn't have minded either.
combo	I'm so glad we didn't as day 2 was so beautiful - lots of single track and stunning views.
combo	Day 3 is super fun with lots of downhill.
combo	The landscape is breathtaking and we had positive interactions with locals including an impromptu singing/game session with a primary school.
combo	The accommodations along the route are simple but (most importantly) provide big hearty meals.
combo	We enjoyed meeting Ernest at the Bumba guest house who gave us an inside look into rural living in Rwanda and the hardships faced by the community.
combo	Marcel definitely made the trip for us and I cant say enough good things about him!
combo	He went above and beyond expectations.
combo	The trip is tough as I was not used to biking so many hills in the heat.
combo	Marcel’s cheerful attitude really helped keep the group staying positive and he made sure that we all made it through the tough days.
combo	Not only did he do a great job with his porter duties but he also made sure we had enough food and water, maintained our bikes (changing out brakes etc.
combo	), pushed me up hills (!!!!
combo	), taught us some kinyarwandan, and kept us all smiling and laughing.
combo	Marcel speaks English really well and was genuinely interested in sharing his culture and learning about ours.
combo	Papa Lucile was also a wonderful addition to our group.
combo	While his English wasn’t as strong as Marcel’s, he also very competent and his quiet calm energy was appreciated.
combo	A big thank you also goes to Diane who gently encouraged us to rent bikes with suspension.
combo	I can’t imagine doing that trail with no front suspension!!"
combo	We arranged a two-day cycle ride with Rwandan Adventures who hired us bicycles for the trip.
combo	This trip is usually led by a chaperone who knows the route.
combo	Doing it without a chaperone meant a lot of preparation and planning in advance and to do it in this way is not for the faint hearted.
combo	There is no signposting and it would be very easy to get lost.
combo	The route is through rural Rwanda and is primarily on rough dirt tracks.
combo	This coupled with the fact that it is extremely hilly makes it a demanding and challenging experience.
combo	Despite this I would definitely recommend it.
combo	Not only is the challenge exhilarating but it allows you to visit areas that would be impossible any other way.
combo	I understand that many people do the ride over 3 days rather than 2 and this would allow for a more relaxed experience.
combo	My only complaint was a lack of communication from Rwandan Adventures in the planning stage of the trip.
combo	"My boyfriend and I had a wonderful 2-day trip from Gisenyi to Kibuye with porter Marcel.
combo	The bikes were in a good condition and our porter very friendly and helpful.
combo	The trip was one of the best experiences we had during our 2 week trip in Rwanda and Uganda, almost beating the gorilla tracking!
combo	We decided to cycle on day 1 from Gisenyi to Kinunu, where we stayed in Kinunu Rushel Lodge (an extremely beautiful and crisp place - true value for money).
combo	On day 2 we cycled from Kinunu to Koko, from which we took a boat to Kibuye.
combo	It is also possible to make this a 3 day trip and stay over in Bumba.
combo	However, as only budget accommodation is available in Bumba, we opted for the short cut by boat.
combo	In addition, the Rwandan Adventure team (Joanna & Diane) was very helpful, by arranging several taxi transfers for other parts of our trip in Rwanda."
combo	"Did the 3 day cycling tour from Rubona to Karongi.
combo	Wonderful experience riding through beatiful landscapes, highly recommended.
combo	Very professional organisation, which provides good material and good service (eg.
combo	also organised main luggage transfer).
combo	Recommended to do the tour with chaperone or guide unless you have tools and skills to repair bikes (not only tyres) on the way (even good bikes suffer on the rocky roads and may need repairs)."
combo	"We rode with porteur Marcel from Gisenyi to Kinunu washing station, where we stayed for the night.
combo	It was a beautiful bike ride (with excellent bikes!
combo	), and Marcel was a great guide!
combo	And Diane in the office in Rubavu was a great help to us for planning our trip, but also some other things we wanted to do in Rwanda.
combo	The hotel in Kinunu was basic, but ok.
combo	The meal we had in Kinunu that evening wasn't the best we had during our stay in the country, but the surroundings are magnificent.
combo	Don't forget to ask for a tour of the washing station."
combo	"I hired a good quality mountain bike, helmet, gloves and repair kit from Rwandan Adventures and went on a route recommended by them which took me south from Kigali down to the Nyaborongo river.
combo	It was an excellent day, the locals were very friendly and the landscape was stunning.
combo	It was great to be able to get out of Kigali and get some really fresh air.
combo	Although, being in Rwanda, you can expect some hefty climbs!
combo	Jo was very kind providing transport back to my starting location when I got slightly lost at the end!
combo	All in all, a great day, highly highly recommended."
combo	"We took this trail on foot with Isaac, the guide from Rwandan Adventures.
combo	He was very helpful the whole trip and also excellent in providing information.
combo	We appreciate very much his interpretation when being among locals and among others his open mind.
combo	He has very interesting opinions and we spent hours on discussing different topics.
combo	The trip was very well organized without any problems.
combo	Accomodation and food were also able to pay in USD which help us a lot.
combo	Among other advantages of R.A., we appreciate flexibility in everything (payments, dates, ...) and the possibility to prepare trip before coming to Rwanda.
combo	If we want to take this trail again we would definitely choose Rwandan Adventures.
combo	Enjoy your stay in Rwanda!"
combo	"When great people, great advice, great location, great locals, great scenery and great gear come together, you get the perfect trip.
combo	Thanks to Rwandan Adventures we had one of the best trip we had ever had...So much so that we made a short film about it: http://theduckwhisperer.com/2015/01/20/r-w-a-n-d-a-north-to-south-on-a-push-bike/"
combo	"Jo, Emmy and the rest of the RA team catered to all our needs!
combo	We wanted to bike from Kibuye to Gisenyi but only got 75% through.
combo	It's a tough ride but the views are spectacular"
combo	"Rwandan Adventures was really great in helping us organize our bike tour from Gisenyi to Kibuye.
combo	They booked rooms, gave maps, gave advice, responded quickly--very useful and nice, and even advised friends of ours hiking instead of biking.
combo	The standard bikes are heavy but sturdy and had no problems.
combo	Only had a couple of issues (why not 5 star, otherwise it would def be): we reserved panniers, as did some others, but there were not enough to go around (there were 9 of us biking, 4 with a porter, so maybe that was why, just a big demand--they had other types of bags but those did not hold very much, so we just strapped our bags on the bikes and it was fine), and I was told there were plenty of the standard bikes available, but there actually were not very many and they had no left the morning we left, so that could've been a problem if my friend had at the last minute not been able to bring her bike.
combo	The nicer bikes also don't seem to have a way to attach panniers/baggage to them (but they were very nice bikes).
combo	Other than that, getting out riding in the morning was well organized, and the staff at the bike shop was great.
combo	Gisenyi to Kibuye via the congo nile trail was a beautiful (but a bit tough) ride and we easily found the contact in Kibuye to take us to the bike drop-off.
combo	Boscoe, the porter hired by the other group biking at the same time as us, was always steering us in the right direction and helping with bike issues.
combo	We used the bike repair kit provided a couple of times, and I think it would be worthwhile to include a chain breaking tool and a master link, or one spare chain/group, in the future (we had a chain issue on the trip).
combo	Otherwise it was pretty complete!
combo	Overall I really recommend the company, and the trip.
combo	It was a beautiful weekend biking and things went smoothly."
combo	"highly recommend!
combo	had a fantastic porter (who also served as my guide, despite his limited English, he was helpful and wonderful).
combo	tough two day trail (the second day was especially tough following a huge thunderstorm) but doable.
combo	Fantastic scenery, fun cycling--a great way to see the countryside and scenery off the beaten path.
combo	great tour--a must-do if you are in Rwanda."
combo	"Rwandan Adventures was fantastic!
combo	Personalized service and great at coordinating my entire adventure along the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	I rented a well-maintained hardtail mountain bike and hired a bike porter for the two day ride from Giyseni to Kibuye.
combo	The porter was a former Team Rwanda member!
combo	Overall, my experience couldn't have been better.
combo	I can't wait to do it again."
combo	"Our 3 day gorilla safari from Entebbe was an amazing experience!
combo	Organising our trip was easy and stress-free thanks to Nicholas quick and detailed responses to our many questions.
combo	Nicholas also offered good advice on lodges and helped us with booking the amazing Buhoma Lodge in Bwindi.
combo	Our guide Ema was excellent.
combo	He made our long car rides enjoyable by sharing his extensive knowledge of Uganda and with his kind and friendly personality.
combo	Overall, I can't recommend Devine enough.
combo	A professional company who helped us have an unforgettable gorilla viewing experience."
combo	"Once in a lifetime experience!
combo	I can’t recommend this tour company/gorilla trekking experience enough.
combo	Always prompt email responses to all of our multiple questions.
combo	Accommodations and Ronald, our guide, were superb."
combo	"Going on safari at Akagera National Park and viewing the gorillas are not to be missed!
combo	Everything about my tour was well-organized and professional, and my guide, Ronald, was excellent at tracking and spotting all kinda of animals from elephants to lions.
combo	On the gorilla trek, you can get super close to the gorillas, and it is a once in a lifetime experience!
combo	Definitely recommend traveling with Devine!"
combo	"Devine Safari provided a great experience to trek with the gorillas in Uganda.
combo	Nicholas the owner is very responsive, answering all my emails and questions in a very timely manner.
combo	My driver was also named Nicholas and he was great!
combo	He was knowledgeable, friendly and a great driver.
combo	He ensured I had a great experience and went out of his way to make me feel welcome and comfortable.
combo	Choosing Devine means you are choosing a local Ugandan business that is trying to support Ugandan operators and other businesses.
combo	Highly recommend."
combo	"From beginning to end, it was an amazing experience.
combo	Ronald, our guide & driver, picked us up promptly at our hotel on the first day.
combo	He escorted us on a city tour of Kigali which included a visit to the Genocide Museum.
combo	Next stop - making banana beer!
combo	What a Fun Experience!
combo	The Kigali women shared with us their fun communal experience of how they make banana beer all while singing and dancing.
combo	On the way to our lodge, required Covid testing needed for Gorilla trekking was easy.
combo	Ronald arranged appointments ahead of time and it was all a breeze.
combo	The lodge was clean and very comfortable and the staff were attentive and welcoming on arrival.
combo	After our gorilla trek, huge bonus - the lodge staff cleaned and dried our boots!!
combo	We stayed at Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge.
combo	TREKKING - AMAZING!!!
combo	After a couple hours trek with our park guide, we met up with the morning trackers.
combo	The next hour of my Life will forever be Unforgettable!!
combo	Recommendations - hiking boots, rain jacket and gloves are a must.
combo	Also, be careful of Stinging Nettles - ouch.
combo	And they can stink you through clothes too.
combo	I highly recommend Devine African Safaris!"
combo	"Very well organized trip with hospitable and caring staff, the car which can surpass any bad roads and nice choice of lodges with beautiful views and practically guaranteed view of the animals.
combo	Cultural visits may look less exciting, since they mostly follow the same pattern (e.g.
combo	dancing and crafts), but some of them were also useful to learn more about the country and its problems.
combo	So it was a brilliant and affordable tour with high-quality service and the attentive and intelligent guide."
combo	"We had an amazing trip to Tanzania for our honeymoon over New Year's 2022-23.
combo	Nicholas helped us organize the trip, and he was very responsive to our questions and helped us to customize the trip exactly how we wanted.
combo	The lodges he recommended were all excellent, and our guide/driver was great also.
combo	We saw incredible wildlife and scenery including hundreds of elephants, thousands of zebra and wildebeest, dozens of lions (including many cubs nursing), and much more.
combo	The only reason this is not five stars is because there were a few communication issues between the various local partners that Devine uses in Tanzania, where they did not all have the same information about the itinerary.
combo	This caused a bit of inconvenience and confusion but did not detract too much from what was otherwise an amazing and memorable trip."
combo	"We had an incredible trip with Devine African Safaris this past summer.
combo	We had booked the trip in 2020 and had to postpone until 2022 but the Nicholas was great about staying in touch over those 2 years and maintaining our exact itinerary.
combo	Our guide was punctual and took great care of us over our 6 day trek.
combo	We had such a great experience and learned a lot from him.
combo	The accommodations that they booked were all great and we saw great wildlife (gorillas, chimps, golden monkeys, elephants, lions, and more!
combo	We had an incredible trip and would highly recommend Devine African Safaris for your Ugandan/Rwandan trek.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"we had a wonderful few days trip, organised by Nicholas at Devine Safarid Ltd. :-).
combo	My boyfriend and had booked a trip, travelling around Rwanda, and later found that we could also travel across the border into Uganda to Bwindi Forest and see the mountain gorillas.
combo	I got in touch with Nicholas to ask about options and we arranged to be picked up in Kigali, and dropped off in Ruhengeri in Rwanda, to resume our travels.
combo	Our guide was Ronald, and he was really great and professional.
combo	The border crossing at cyanika was pretty fast and smooth.
combo	We went in rainy season, so needed a 4wd Landcruiser to get around some places, especially close to Bwindi.
combo	The lodge Nicholas arranged for us was also cool, with an amazing view of the volcanoes across the lake.
combo	The only mistake we made was not to spend more time in Uganda, as the scenery was really breathtaking, and the people we met were very nice.
combo	Thanks very much, can recommend, and would love to visit again."
combo	"We had the most incredible 5 day experience in Uganda.
combo	Starting with being picked up from Kigali airport in Rwanda and day tripping to get to Uganda in preparation for 3 adventures.
combo	These included Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, Game drives and boat trip in Queen Elizabeth National Park and finally Chimp Trekking in Kibale National Park.
combo	Nicolas our guide was excellent and looked after our every need.
combo	The accomodation was excellent as well.
combo	Cant recommend these guys more highly.
combo	A MUST do bucket list trip."
combo	"100% recommend using Devine.
combo	Great communication before the trip.
combo	They planned me a 6 night private tour around Rwanda crossing into Uganda for the gorilla trek.
combo	They incorporated everything that I wanted to do on the trip.
combo	They have great local connections - lovely hotels and lunch stops throughout.
combo	Easy payment before the trip - including gorilla permits, hotels and food - which meant less cash was needed.
combo	Safe comfortable car and really knowledgeable friendly guide (Thanks Nicholas).
combo	Fabulous trip and good value for money considering what was included in the trip.
combo	Thanks so much :)"
combo	"We had a great time!
combo	We spent 3 days in Akagera, staying at the Tented Lodge (highly recommend).
combo	Our guide was Ronald, and he was super helpful, always on time, and provided a very comfortable ride."
combo	"I booked a 4-day safari to Uganda (drove from Kigali, Rwanda).
combo	Ronald was an amazing guide.
combo	He went above and beyond to make sure that my safari was an experience to remember from adding activities if we had extra time to sharing stories and information about Uganda's culture with me.
combo	Devine also does a great job of making sure that you are always comfortable during the adventure.
combo	The accommodations and dining options were fantastic.
combo	I had such an amazing time on this safari - I would 10/10 do it again!"
combo	"We had a great experience working with Devine for the first portion of our honeymoon.
combo	Nicholas picked us up at our hotel in Kigali, took us to the genocide memorial, showed us around the city a bit, and then drove us the 4-5 hours over the border to Bwindi.
combo	He was our driver to and from the gorilla trek from our mountain lodge, walked us through the process, and then brought us back to Kigali on day 3, stopping for lunch at the Hotel Milles Collines (Hotel Rwanda) before taking us to the airport for the next leg of our trip.
combo	He was very calm and friendly, and super helpful guiding us through the two land border crossings.
combo	Would happily recommend Devine to anyone else looking for a great adventure!"
combo	"We had a great experience from beginning to end.
combo	Our guide Lucky picked us up in Kigali, and thanks to him we had 2 wonderful days of activities.
combo	He was extremely knowledgeable and reliable in every way, and offered the nicest and most friendly company throughout the trip.
combo	We cannot thank him enough.
combo	Nicholas at Devine Safaris was very professional, responsive and helped finding the perfect program for us.
combo	That was one of the reasons we decided to go with this tour company, and we didn’t regret it.
combo	In Volcanoes National Park, the hike up to the Mount Bisoke crater lake offered wonderful views, and was well worth the challenging trek.
combo	And seeing the gorillas up close is an unforgettable experience, truly amazing to see them go about their everyday life!
combo	I am very happy with this trip and would recommend it to everyone."
combo	"We had booked a 2020 gorilla trekking trip in Rwanda through another agency - permits were paid for and deposits had been made.
combo	Then our safari guide went out of business during COVID.
combo	After scrambling to find someone to take over the planning, I found Devine African Safaris here on TripAdvisor and Nicholas was amazing!
combo	He helped me work with the Rwandan tourism board to get our permits transferred to our new travel dates and he came up with an even better trip than we originally had planned.
combo	We stayed in the real-life Hotel Rwanda, toured the heartbreaking genocide memorial in Kigali, spent a cultural afternoon in a native village, saw the golden monkeys and of course, the highlight of the trip, the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park!
combo	We did the ""medium"" hike by the way, which was still challenging, and I'm an experienced hiker.
combo	Make sure you hire the local porters.
combo	They come in handy even if you have nothing for them to carry - and it supports the locals.
combo	This was the trip of a lifetime!
combo	I may have even shed a tear or two when I saw the gorillas.
combo	We watched the babies play, saw a male beat his chest and watched the silverback ""fake sleep,"" opening his eyes occasionally to see if we'd left.
combo	Everything was planned perfectly.
combo	Everyone we came across was friendly and helpful.
combo	Everything is included, except tips (which you'll need a lot of - that's how things work in Rwanda).
combo	I can't thank Nicholas enough for his thoughtful planning down to the last detail."
combo	"Great experience!
combo	Nicholas at Davine Safari was excellent with the booking process, professional and very responsive.
combo	We did the Gorilla trek and hiked up Mt.
combo	Bisoke.
combo	Both such unforgettable experiences!!
combo	The best part of the trip for me however was spending time with our fabulous guide Mr. Lucky.
combo	Lucky is extremely knowledgeable about his country, Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills.
combo	He was always attentive to our needs, but without being intrusive, he answered all our hundreds of questions with patience and a smile.
combo	But most importantly, he was sooooo much fun to be with!
combo	I wholeheartedly recommend his as a guide, and cannot wait to go with him again next time I’m in this part of the world!"
combo	"Although, I did not make the travel arrangements directly, a girlfriend found Devine African Safaris after extensive research to find a good local agent, my contact with Nicholas was easy and pleasant.
combo	We were welcomed at the airport by Lucky A, who came back to introduce us to Lucky B who would be our guide and driver to see the gorillas in Bwindi National Park in Uganda.
combo	Lucky B is dynamic, kind and a wealth of local information, always eager to please.
combo	The long drive went by quickly as we learned all about Rwanda.
combo	Our experience with the gorillas was magical, Lucky B made sure we were at the starting point early, ensuring us an easy walk, which it thankfully was as the jungle is very dense and walking through it for hours would have been difficult.
combo	We were well surrounded by our knowledgeable guide, trackers and guards and spending an hour with these incredible mountain gorillas was the adventure of a lifetime.
combo	Thank you Devine African Safaris for making it possible and to Lucky B for making it such an easy and pleasant one and expanding our knowledge of your beautiful country."
combo	"This was fantastic!!!
combo	From the moment Lucky B picked us up at the airport until he dropped us back off at the airport, this experience was first rate!!!
combo	Lucky B is a wonderful guide/driver with knowledge to answer all our questions.
combo	We had a lot of them!
combo	He made sure that we were in the trekking group with the shortest walk as my husband has a problem with his leg.
combo	He got us there a few minutes early to guarantee that we would be in that group.
combo	We only trekked for5 minutes!
combo	The hour spent with the gorilla family was an experience we will never forget.
combo	The family had a 3 week old baby and a couple other babies a few months old.
combo	They were so cute to watch and see fall off things as they explored their world.
combo	The silverback just watched over his family as we watched him.
combo	Majestic!!!
combo	The Park Ranger was excellent as were the trackers and security people.
combo	The lodge where we stayed in Uganda was right on a beautiful lake.
combo	They put hot water bottled in the beds to warm them up as it was quite chilly during the night and in the morning.
combo	Booking through Devine African Safaris was an excellent experience.
combo	Nicholas handled everything and it was a piece of cake.
combo	We highly recommend this tour company and most importantly, Lucky B as your guide/drive.
combo	Ask for him!!!
combo	You will have an amazing trek!!"
combo	"As a solo traveler I completed two gorilla treks, a two-day hike to the summit of Mt.
combo	Karisimbi, a visit to the caves of Musanze, a visit to the genocide memorial in Kigali, a morning boat ride on Lake Ihema, and a game drive in Akagera National Park.
combo	The trip was amazing and my intrepid guide Ronard was with me every step of the way.
combo	Ronard was an outstanding tour guide of Rwanda and provided exemplary service.
combo	Ronard and Nicholas from Devine made all the necessary preparations for my activities, and everything was completed seamlessly without any complications.
combo	I would 100% recommend Devine for anyone considering tourism in Rwanda or Uganda.
combo	I could not be more satisfied!"
combo	"Booked a 12 night safari through Devine with game and boat drives, Rhino Trekking, Chimpanzee Trekking and a Gorilla Habituation experience.
combo	Nicholas in the office was always prompt and professional in answering my emails and very flexible when the airlines kept messing around with their schedule and I had to make a few changes.
combo	Emma, my guide, was AMAZING.
combo	I honestly cannot say enough nice things about him.
combo	He was friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, a cheerleader/life coach when I thought there was no way I was going to be able to do the gorillas (walking on a treadmill is not enough training prep) and just the nicest man you could ever hope to meet.
combo	I do owe him an apology for crying all over his coat after I came out of the forest after finishing the habituation experience but he just asked if I needed a hug - above and beyond!
combo	This was one of the best experiences I've ever had and a large part of it was the team at Devine."
combo	"Booked Devine African Safaris based on excellent TripAdvisor reviews.
combo	Originally set for 2020 yet Covid pandemic pushed its eventual adventure to Sept 2022.
combo	Devine Safaris was great to work with/very accommodating.
combo	Excellent Safaris.
combo	Originally scheduled 5 day safari but had to extend to 7 day due to airline cancellation out of Entebbe.
combo	Did chimpanzee and Mountain Gorillas along with Big 5 Game drives in Uganda.
combo	Easy pick up in Entebbe to start.
combo	Guide drove us around for the 7 day Tour.
combo	Excellent accommodations.
combo	Good meals.
combo	Great experience seeing Uganda, the chimps, the mountain gorillas and the big game.
combo	Would not hesitate to book again"
combo	"We were a group of 4 adults travelling in Uganda for 9 days.
combo	We have chosen Devine African Safaris by recommendation of our friend who travelled with them a year before.
combo	We must admit that the agency is very reliable.
combo	The process of tailoring our individual program was smooth and efficient.
combo	The agency was flexible and open to our suggestions.
combo	Emma was our driver, guide and „guardian angel”😇 We felt safe and well taken care of with him.
combo	We do recommend Devine African Safaris."
combo	"Seeing the gorillas was a once in a lifetime experience.
combo	Honestly, the entire trip was amazing.
combo	I would highly recommend Devine Safari."
combo	"Gorilla trekking is without a doubt, an absolutely necessary activity on your agenda.
combo	Please do research on clothes in advance but expect to wear: hiking boots, hiking pants with thick, knee high socks (or ankle gaiters), rain jacket, gloves, sun hat, & sunglasses.
combo	Also be prepared to bring a small backpack to pack your camera, snacks, hand wipes, face mask, water, etc.
combo	Upon arrival, your driver will arrange a group for you - easy, medium, or hard.
combo	This will determine the difficulty in your trek/hike up the mountain.
combo	From there, enjoy a slow & easy pace up to the gorilla family.
combo	The distance between you & the gorilla family is so close, it’s surreal.
combo	An hour with them will feel like mere seconds but it’s beautiful nonetheless to be with them in their natural habitat versus seeing them in a zoo.
combo	Volcanoes National Park is lovely and absolutely worth the hike & visit!
combo	I very much enjoyed the itinerary planning with Devine Safaris and I would book them again if I go back to Rwanda!"
combo	"We booked this holiday 3 years ago and then due to the pandemic it got cancelled numerous times.
combo	During this period Nicholas was excellent, his communication was quick and factual and this saved us lots of worries.
combo	The actual trip (once we could go) was excellent.
combo	Our driver Ronard was friendly but most importantly he drove safely and respected our welfare.
combo	Rwanda was perfect for Gorilla and Chimp trekking, the country is incredibly clean and everyone was very friendly and helpful.
combo	Would recommend the company and the country to all."
combo	"I think volume of activities, in retrospect, was considerable.
combo	Each day was filled with a different adventure."
combo	"Besides gorillas, which definitely was a highlight of our 9-day trip, Uganda as a country, explained through the conversation with our guide Emma / Emmanuelle is something unbelievable.
combo	We strongly recommend this trip and Devine to anyone that wants to see and hear behind the scenes.
combo	The trip is not for everyone - be ready to spend hours on a bumpy roads, some lodges might have strange policies about admitting your guides to join you for the dinner, the poverty of the country will tear you apart - but if you don't mind stepping out from the comfort zone, enjoy the ride and be ready to be surprised.
combo	Yes we saw all of the big game, yes we saw the gorillas, but thanks to Emma we also visited the Rhino sanctuary (not in the program), he organized Lake Mburo visit on the way to the airport (not in the program, additional cost but my God it was worth it) and every day we discovered some hidden gems that we were not expecting.
combo	Few tips: have a LOT of small USD bills; bring bags of candies for kids; buy Airtel SIM on the airport, not MTN due to the coverage in remote areas; wash everything all the time; go alone as much as you can to experience wildlife in silence; make sure you have Papaya Lake Lodge in the program; ask Devine and your guide everything all the time and about everything, not everyone has same expectations so make everything clear, both Emma during the trip and Nicholas in the booking phase were amazing and very responsive; do not miss the Batwa (pygmies) village."
combo	"Devine provided superb service and put together an excellent custom itinerary for us.
combo	Our trip was initially canceled in 2020 and they were very accommodating, allowing us to travel two years later on the same itinerary with no increase in price.
combo	The tour was, by all accounts, spectacular.
combo	We saw golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and big game.
combo	Our driver-guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and ensured that we had the best possible experience.
combo	All lodges were outstanding.
combo	We recommend Devine without hesitation."
combo	"Positives: seeing the gorillas was amazing!
combo	that part was 10/10.
combo	Driver was nice, on time.
combo	Guide was excellent and trackers found gorillas as promised.
combo	Company arranged for Gorilla trek and I hear there are scams out there, this is legitimate.
combo	Negatives: The problem was that I wanted to trek into the jungle to see the gorillas.
combo	Instead we walked for 20 mins across a farm and into tall grass and bam!
combo	saw gorillas right away.
combo	They were amazing.
combo	However, I wanted to trekking experience into the misty rainforest.
combo	It would have been fine if this was the only way to see the gorillas the day I went but there were several groups that did get the experience I wanted.
combo	It had not occurred to me that I would have to request to go into the rainforest to see gorillas I thought that was part of it.
combo	For $1800 the experience should have been better and could have been.
combo	They could have simply explained this to me.
combo	I am an early 30s solo traveler who just climbed Kilimanjaro (and informed them of such) ie clearly in shape to do any day hike.
combo	They put me with a nice older group who probably preferred the shorter hike.
combo	I did not.
combo	My driver asked me before hand short, medium, or long hike.
combo	I said I don't know whatever is best.
combo	I asked how long is meant by short vs medium vs long and got no answer.
combo	He said he would book short/medium (did he prefer this so he wouldn't have to wait as long?
combo	I don't know).
combo	I had no idea this meant a 20 min hike not even into the forest.
combo	I then asked the guide what type of hike we are doing and he said what do I want.
combo	I said I want the best experience.
combo	Once again, I had no idea you could see gorillas without going into the forest.
combo	Once again the experience I wanted was available.
combo	And once again I spent $1800 for this and it is significantly cheaper in Uganda.
combo	Quite simply the company should have explained the different types of treks before hand (not simply being told long medium short on drive to the gorillas) so I could have understood and told them what I wanted for this once in a lifetime experience.
combo	despite this.
combo	still recommend.
combo	gorillas were amazing."
combo	"This really was the trip of a lifetime!
combo	The most stunningly beautiful country and magical gorilla experiences - and most importantly, the best guide you could hope for.
combo	Thoughtful, inspiring, insightful and really guiding and partnering with local people and businesses.
combo	I feel honoured to have done this!
combo	Book with this group, it will be your best decision :)"
combo	"Everything was perfect: the guide was very helpful and nice, car in good conditions and we managed to see the big cats, also due the cooperation among all drivers.
combo	And the price really included everything but tips."
combo	"This was A complete life changing experience.
combo	From start to finish this is a must do while visiting Rwanda.
combo	I wasn’t going to go since it’s a 3 hour drive from Kigali.
combo	I decided to go for it and it’s an Experience I’ll never forget.
combo	There’s three levels to choose from easy trek, Med and Hard.
combo	I chose Medium.
combo	It was about 45 min to an hour of uphill climbing and an hour spent with the gorillas.
combo	You never know what your going to get, but the tribe we found were full of life and personality.
combo	We saw about 20 of them up close and personal.
combo	I was even pushed out of the way by the larger alpha.
combo	I never felt to be in danger either.
combo	It’s heart stopping excitement and pure beauty."
combo	"We did a 3 day trip to Akagera National Park with Nicholas from Devine African Safaris.
combo	We were happy to be able to choose dates that suited us and program that we found the most interesting.
combo	Everything was well organized and it was a pleasure to travel with Nicholas.
combo	We did enjoy the boat ride as well as the safari tour in the open roof car, which was perfect for spotting the animals far and close.
combo	We had a great picnic in the park as well.
combo	We stayed in the Akagera Game Lodge, which was a pleasant experience with great atmosphere, staff and food.
combo	I had the best tilapia meal of the whole trip at the lodge.
combo	I can highly recommend this experience!"
combo	It was amazing to see the gorillas in their natural environment.
combo	The trackers and the guide were extremely nice and helpful.
combo	"We had the best time exploring Uganda with our amazing guide Emma.
combo	We saw all the animals we were hoping to see and many more!
combo	We made the journey over to see the apes (chimps/gorillas) but also saw tree climbing lions, giraffes,elephants, hippos, Cape buffalos, zebras, and a leopard.
combo	We stayed at the most amazing lodges and greeted by amazing hosts.
combo	Devine truly has the best relationships with the lodges, the parks rangers, the best land cruisers and more importantly a great guide who has an exceptional eye for nature.
combo	We had the time of our lives and hopefully will return sooner than later!"
combo	The tour company was very accommodating as our group went from 2-6 people.
combo	The was a perfect length tour and we enjoyed the sights and the trip overall.
combo	Keep in mind that you are hiring more of a driver than a continuous tour guide but the park rangers will give you an overview of where to find what animals as well as other tips.
combo	Our driver did have Eagle eyes and pointed out animals in the distance that we didn't quite notice.
combo	Everyone had a great time.
combo	"AMAZING, AMAZING, TRULY AMAZING.
combo	We just came back from a 3 day gorilla trekking from Entebbe.
combo	Nicholas is fantastic, from the very first prompt response to dealing with last moment additional person joining our group, to answering a million questions about what to bring and where to stay, and what to do.
combo	I am truly impressed.
combo	Our designated guide was Joseph and he took care of our every need.
combo	The drive from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is taking some skill and Joseph made sure we are entertained with stories of the local community, introduced us to great food, and shared stories of our families and countries.
combo	The accommodation booked for us in the forest was of absolutely world-class and we enjoyed true comfort and magnificent views.
combo	I will highly recommend DevineAfrican Safaries for any of the trips they offer.
combo	I am very much looking forward to booking an adventure with them again"
combo	"I had an amazing time with Nicholas he was a great guide and told me about African life.
combo	We spoke about many different things and truths about living in Uganda.
combo	I stayed in very beautiful lodges with animals at my fingertips, but not really lol.
combo	I was immersed with beautiful sceneries including lakes and trees, flowers and birds.
combo	The staff on each location was most attentive to all my needs.
combo	I never had a dull moment unless i wanted to relax.
combo	I recommend this company for reliability, safety and an assured great trip.
combo	Relaxed out of this world.
combo	I did see the big Five!"
combo	"We had the trip of a lifetime!
combo	If you want to see the Big Five plus cheetahs, mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys (plus many others), in addition to cultural village stops, gorgeous scenery, and a chance to spend time getting to know the open, warm, friendly locals.
combo	. . go to Uganda with Devine African Safaris and request Nicholas as your guide!
combo	Nicholas has been guiding for years and helped us see more or the “rare” animals than any of the other travelers we talked to using other trip organizers and guides.
combo	He was a careful and safe driver and knew all the roads and parks, and where to find the animals.
combo	this was all at the best price we could find.
combo	We couldn’t have asked for anything more!
combo	Check out the pictures, Nicholas got us so close to the animals I could take pictures with my cell phone!"
combo	"I would never expect someone to take care of us as much as Emanuel from Devine African Safari did.
combo	We had a perfect trip, been to gorillas just a step away, saw chimpanzees eating termites using the stick in the jungle, and many more animals during the safari.
combo	The whole trip we felt extremely safe, taken care of and Emanuel was always trying to help us in each possible way to have as comfortable trip as possible.
combo	I definitely recommend everyone the company and Emma as a guide."
combo	"I did a 6-day tour with Devine which included gorilla tracking in Bwindi and safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	Everything was very well organized, the accommodations were great, the guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
combo	The gorilla tracking itself was one of the most special and unique experiences of any of my travels.
combo	I highly recommend!"
combo	Excellent I really loved my experience with Devine they are very professional and fun at the same time.
combo	So the communication with the owner Nicholas directly before and during the trip as well was very fast and very cooperative.
combo	I had also add a section to the itinerary and they were very flexible and managed great section.
combo	The guide in Rwanda 🇷🇼 Ronald was fun and I enjoyed my time with him.
combo	The guide in Uganda 🇺🇬 Nicholas I had an amazing time with him and unfortunately moments which we both share now and he truly have a pure soul full of joy.
combo	"I took the 7 days Big 5 & Big Cats in Uganda Wilderness tour.
combo	I had never thought of taking a safari, but a friend suggested it, and I'm so glad I took this tour - I had the best time.
combo	The trip was well organized, and the guide, Emma, was fantastic.
combo	He was knowledgeable about the animals and the country, had a great sense of humor, and was a great driver.
combo	Murchison Falls was stunning, and of course seeing the animals up close, with their different personalities, was incredible.
combo	The country is beautiful, and the people are so friendly (little children would wave at us as we drove past them).
combo	The food was good and the hotels were comfortable.
combo	I'm trying to motivate family and friends to take this tour, or another tour, with Devine African Safaris.
combo	I hope one day to take another tour with Devine African Safaris to see more of Uganda and hopefully also Rwanda."
combo	"I am so glad I found Devine African Safaris!
combo	Nicholas was so quick to respond and helped us customize and plan the perfect itinerary for our trip to Uganda.
combo	He had everything from the lodging, transportation, meals, and permits organized and scheduled for us, which really made all of the planning effortless on our part.
combo	Our 6-day trip included chimpanzee trekking at Kibale National Park, many game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a game viewing boat ride on the Kazinga Channel, and gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
combo	We had such an incredible experience with all of these activities - the gorilla trekking is a must!
combo	The vehicle and drives were comfortable and all of the lodges we stayed at were so beautiful and welcoming!
combo	Our expert guide and driver, Nicholas, was very informative and shared so much knowledge about the history and cultures of Uganda, as well as his expansive knowledge of the wildlife.
combo	We had the trip of a lifetime and I can't wait to plan another trip with Devine to see even more of East Africa!"
combo	"Booked in Dec 2019 for summer 2020.
combo	Due to Covid 19 had to postpone the trip by one year.
combo	Throughout this long period I cooperative and quick solutions offered.
combo	The offered accommodations (budget/moderate) were all up to expectations, food was nice, but I would have preferred more Eastern African food instead of Western style.
combo	Driver-guide Ronald in Rwanda was excellent, William in Uganda a top wildlife spotter and birdwatching expert.
combo	Cars in both countries not brand new, but in good maintenance and comfortable.
combo	Very reliable company, offering also off the tourist path options"
combo	"I have just returned from an 8D/7N tour in Uganda with Devine African Safaris.
combo	Both the pre-tour and the tour experience were great!
combo	Communication was prompt and matter-of-fact, all my questions were being replied to patiently (and believe me, there were many --> lockdown, COVID tests, malfunctioning of the e-visa system, etc., etc.).
combo	The itinerary included Kibale Forest, Queen Elisabeth NP, Bwindi, Lake Bunyoni, Mburu NP.
combo	Each area has it's own specifics, and accommodation in all of the places was comfortable, often with great views.
combo	All this at a very reasonable price.
combo	Emma, our driver cum guide, was excellent: professional, knowledgeable, with a good sense of humor and excellent English.
combo	Important traits in a person with whom you are to spend quite some time...!
combo	All in all, Uganda packs a lot in for such a relatively small country: wildlife, nature, landscapes, tasty food (make sure you try the Rolex:-))).
combo	It's also admirable how the country managed to adopt all the fundamental anti-Covid measures, with sanitation stations dotted around the entire country, and everyone wearing a mask!
combo	Many thanks to the Devine team for this fantastic experience!"
combo	"I have worked on 2 similar trips of 9 days each.
combo	The team of Devine africa was very easy going and helpful to our relatively last minute trip.
combo	Our guide/driver williams was so kind, informative and accommodating to all of our needs."
combo	"I was lucky to know by pure coincidence this group , I was just browsing online and dealing with Devine African Safaris was so smooth and professional from the first message randomly sent to them; they responded straightaway, sent an offer within less than an hour, very polite respectful and comfortable attitude and service.
combo	The meeting with the driver was as good as the organiser, Ronald is very kind, thoughtful, fun, professional and reflecting such a positive energy ... everything was organized perfectly, the site visits, gorillas trekking and karisimbi climb, couldn’t be better!
combo	A bit expensive due to the gorilla trek permission cost but worth it .. thanks a lot for the team , will definitely come back for more activities in the region :)"
combo	We visited Uganda’s beautiful parks with Devine African Safaris.
combo	It was such an amazing journey pregnant with anticipation as we were looking forward to seeing the mountain gorillas and luckily Boaz the appointed guide did not disappoint.
combo	He was drove us from Entebbe through Kibale National Park followed by Queen Elizabeth National Park to the highlight of the whole trip – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
combo	We had the best travel experience capturing wildlife filled scenes including shots from a family of fourteen gorillas.
combo	We stayed at some of the most beautiful lodges on tour with Lake Mutanda Resort taking the cake.
combo	If I were asked to change anything from our trip………… Would be to stay a little bit longer!
combo	"We finally did Gorillas in Bwindi and a safari to Queen Elizabeth in Uganda with Devine African Safaris for a very reasonably priced package.
combo	Christopher was an excellent driver/guide, answering our many questions and sharing so much about Uganda’s history, culture and attractions.
combo	Gorilla trekking is an amazing experience, quite strenuous trekking up the forest for 3 hours till we finally came to a family of the famous mountain gorillas.
combo	This encounter is unforgettable and is worth all the trouble.
combo	I would not change or exchange it for anything.
combo	It was gratifying that we took necessary precautions to protect these apes from contamination and the authorities are very strict on the protocols!
combo	Uganda is special and has a lot to offer because the day at Queen Elizabeth National Park was not enough to explore the park, we sampled bits including taking a boat on Kazinga channel.
combo	I recommend Devine African Safaris as the #1 local operator for Gorillas and Uganda exploration"
combo	"Our recent experience with Devine African Safaris in Rwanda exceeded all expectations.
combo	Communication with Nicholas prior to our trip was smooth and he made it easy to plan our trip in the pandemic.
combo	He provided us with all the requirements for entry to Rwanda and sent Mike to meet us when we arrived at the airport.
combo	The actual trip to Volcanoes for gorilla trekking and Akagera in pursuit of the big 5 was fantastic.
combo	Mike’s keen observation allowed us to see numerous animals ranging from elephants, antelopes, lions, hyenas, buffaloes in Akagera and the Gorillas at the Volcanoes which were the highlight of our safari.
combo	The accommodations were actually better than had been described.
combo	All very comfortable, serving delicious meals.
combo	I highly recommend Devine African Safaris."
combo	"We spent a day with our guide in Kigali followed by a day trekking the Volcanoes for gorillas and finished off with safari game drives in Akagera National Park.
combo	Chris was our guide for the trip and his knowledge about Rwanda’s history, wildlife, culture and politics was freely shared.
combo	Understandably there are very strict guidelines for Gorillas trekking at Volcanoes but they did not dampen our experience.
combo	These animals are magnificent and the hour allowed with the family passed very fast.
combo	We had a fascinating time in Rwanda courtesy of the great arrangements by Devine African Safaris including the nice hotel and lodges.
combo	Excellent, I would love to return"
combo	"The view of the crater lake at the summit point is amazing.
combo	I was not so impressed by the slow pace that was forcefully imposed on us by the park rangers.
combo	A hike that should have taken about 5 hours maximum for me and a few others ended up taking about 8 hours due to the constant stops.
combo	On a positive note, the vegetation is lush and stunning, the trails are quite comfortable and it's a hike i would highly recommend for anyone that wishes to explore Mount Bisoke."
combo	Rwanda is beautiful.
combo	They are constantly concerned with preserving their environment for future generations.
combo	They may be poor but they know how to make what money they do have go far.
combo	The country is absolutely beautiful and the main roads are really good quality but be prepared for a bit of bone shaking when you get onto the minor roads.
combo	It’s worth the effort though as there is so much to see and do.
combo	Rwandans go to bed early so don’t expect a scintillating night life outside of Kigali.
combo	The people there are the most polite and helpful that I have made in any other part of the world.
combo	I can’t wait to go back and renew my acquaintance with both the country and it people.
combo	"I took the 6 days Gorilla Tracking and Masai Mara safari with my partner through Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya with Devine African Safaris.
combo	We had an incredible trip all through with guides Christopher on the Kigali – Bwindi leg and Maxwell in Kenya.
combo	We were lucky that we did not have other people in the vehicle despite booking a group safari hence very private.
combo	It was magical beauty in the parks seeing the gorillas so close, great experiences with the amazing Batwa people we met in between.
combo	Masai Mara was spectacular too, we chanced on 3 lion prides, lots of zebra, giraffe, couple of cheetahs and elephants.
combo	We were very impressed by the high service levels at the lodges in both Uganda and Kenya.
combo	We have no regrets, only fond memories from our trip."
combo	My daughter and I spent the day in the beautiful Akagera National Park.
combo	Every detail of our trip was wonderful from our transportation to viewing the animals to our amazing guide Kenneth.
combo	Rwanda is now my favorite place and I plan on going back.
combo	We also did the one day monkey trekking tour which was equally fun and exciting.
combo	You won’t be disappointed and will know your guide is going the extra mile to ensure a memorable day for you.
combo	"Massive thank you to Devine Safaris for my trip and the experience, one I’ll never forget.
combo	My drive: Ibra, was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, he made the experience really easy and enjoyable, taking care of all arrangements and any questions I had.
combo	I’d definitely recommend this trip to anyone."
combo	"We had a spectacular 7-day Safari in Uganda thanks to Devine African Safaris.
combo	The communication with the sales office before and after the trip has been fast and customer-orientated.
combo	The trip itself included all ""must-sees"" such as the Chimpanzee trekking, Queens National Park, Gorilla trekking and the Equator.
combo	On top of that, interesting community and nature walks were offered along the way.
combo	The accomodations were all well located and the staff super friendly.
combo	The food was awesome and plenty.
combo	We are very satisfied with this tour operator and can highly recommend it!"
combo	"My wife and I went on the three days gorillas trekking tour in Rwanda.
combo	Booking was easy as Devine staff was always available and helpful.
combo	Our driver guide Chris picked us from Keys hotel in Kigali punctually and he is a great guy.
combo	He made our trip interesting with his vast knowledge of flora, fauna, history, culture and was not elusive about the country’s sad past.
combo	We started with Akagera National Park seeing elephants, giraffes, zebras and other wildlife species.
combo	Gorillas Trekking in Volcanoes National Park was very special.
combo	Trekking for 3 hours in the forested trails with Chris and an armed guard from the parks was quite rigorous but when we finally sighted gorillas it was an awesome experience.
combo	Everything on our trip was well planned and went really well as we had no hiccups on our trip.
combo	Great experience"
combo	My 14 day trip to Africa was a complete success!
combo	Nicholas and team were able to arrange a fascinating visit to Congo as part of this trip.
combo	All well coordinated and secure.
combo	Including a last minute itinerary change that team was able to manage.
combo	Trip included visits to multiple national parks.
combo	Our driver-guide Boaz was superb.
combo	Very friendly and knowledgeable!
combo	Happy to see gorillas in Congo and Uganda among other flora and fauna unique of the region.
combo	Hope I can go again to Africa very soon!
combo	"We booked a 6 days safari, including boat ride, game drive, hiking, animal tracking and more.
combo	It all went as planned and requested, with no significant changes or extra charges.
combo	The lodges/camps are really nice, some in the middle of the forest with monkeys flying on our heads.
combo	Good locations and kind staff.
combo	Pity the food is never ""African"" but tents to be international, even though really good.
combo	Our driver was always punctual, kind and good at spotting animals.
combo	He was always asking feedback about the lodges and activities and asking if we needed extra water or something else.
combo	The communication with the company before leaving was good, quick and precise.
combo	As a plus, I booked via bookmundi, which mean I could pay in euros in a very safe way!"
combo	Is was a amazing safary i really recomanded this campany.
combo	Thank you for making my holiday very exciting!!!!!
combo	!
combo	If you go in august like i did you will not see the big 5.
combo	I saw monkeys zebra antilope and a few others.
combo	No elephant no lions no rhino...no crocodile.
combo	They said that in june direct after the raining season its the best time and the biggest chance to see all of the big 5
combo	Our gorillas tracking 4 people group to Uganda went without any hitch thanks to excellent arrangements by Devine African Safaris.
combo	Herbert the tour guide is an experienced professional with remarkable knowledge of wildlife and Uganda’s history.
combo	All the accommodations and meals were very good.
combo	The cost charged was fair for the trip.
combo	We will definitely go back to Uganda with them
combo	"Thanks to Devine for a wonderful day in the gorgeous Akagera National Park.
combo	The lush green of this park and landscape is worth the day visit.
combo	While I've been on more impressive safaris in South Africa and Zimbabwe, this is a great day visit from Kigali and I can definitely recommend Devine.
combo	The open air car was such a great way to experience the park, with your head above the van and the wind blowing in your hair.
combo	Our park guide Mary led us close to the elephants, so very thankful for that.
combo	Devine was on time, safe and provided a friendly driver.
combo	My trip was a bit pricey for the day-trip, but can recommend them."
combo	"My colleague and I booked a 2 day Gorillas Trekking Trip to Uganda Bwindi after a weeklong assignment in Rwanda.
combo	We booked with Devine African Safaris recommended by Johansson, country manager Rwanda for host organization.
combo	The trip from Kigali with guide William was interesting, through the beautiful green scenic countryside to Bwindi National Park in Uganda.
combo	We had a great day trekking up the forest to wonderful encounter with Gorillas.
combo	Five stars for a very well organized trip by Devine."
combo	"Everything was perfect, the driver Edson picked me up at 5 AM and off we went to Akagera National Park.
combo	In the Park‘s visitor centre we took another guide on board, Gisèle.
combo	Both guides were very friendly and tried to show me the maximum.
combo	I was travelling alone, but with Edson and Gisèle I was in good and pleasant company.
combo	Saw a lot of animals: zebras, giraffes, waterbuck, topi, elephant, hippo, buffalo, impalas...The park is beautiful, green and lush.
combo	In the northern part, the concentration of animals was very high.
combo	It felt like being in the Garden of Eden!
combo	I warmly recommend this trip!
combo	Very well organized, reliable, safe, perfect."
combo	"Devine African Safaris organized a fantastic 1 day gorilla tracking for my 4 friends and I during the second week of November.
combo	Communication and payment with Nicholas was smooth, transfers from Kigali International Airport to our hotel, gorilla tracking and departure.
combo	We did the gorilla tracking with Herbert our guide.
combo	He was professional and knowledgeable about Volcanoes park.
combo	We had a fantastic time with a family of mountain gorillas and we were left wowed by the experience.
combo	I can recommend Devine African Safaris, a responsible trusted company"
combo	I spent 2 days with Devine Africa Safaris tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda with my friends.
combo	Special thanks to Nicholas for planning and executing our journey without a hitch.
combo	Boaz the tour guide was proffessional and knew everything about Rwanda and park animals.
combo	We had amazing close encounters near Mountain Gorillas!
combo	We had the hike of our lifetime and Devine African Safaris comes highly recommended
combo	"Devine African Safaris are the best, 3 days trip to Rwanda and Uganda was absolutely wonderful.
combo	The vacation tour started in Kigali Genocide Memorial, place full of sad memories with Boaz the guide/driver.
combo	Did not spoil our vacation mood, as soon after drove to Uganda, Luxurious Bunyonyi View Resort for the night.
combo	Boaz wonderful and excellent company, kept interesting conversation flowing showing us different trees in the forest before getting to Gorillas.
combo	Wow!
combo	My 2 friends and I could not believe the aweinspiring sight of Gorilla family.
combo	1 hour passed very fast!
combo	Thanks for spectacular awesome trip"
combo	"We booked with Devine African Safaris a 2 day trip to Akagera National Park, Rwanda.
combo	Upon my inquiry, Nicholas was quick to respond with detailed information and budget options.
combo	Together we created a 2 day itinerary for a great price.
combo	We were lucky that Herbert was our guide.
combo	He is a remarkable individual who taught us so much about Rwanda, quite frank too about the dark history.
combo	The safari vehicle was brand new and Herbert is a careful driver all through the trip.
combo	The night at Akagera Game Lodge was wonderful after a morning game drive and afternoon boat safari in the park.
combo	We saw many animals including elephnts, hippos, lions, zebras, warthogs, giraffe, Kudu, duicker and birds like pelicans, wild ducks and storks.
combo	Our trip flowed flawlessly and I woul gladly book with Devine African Safaris again"
combo	"My wife and I recently did a 3-day Gorilla Trek from Entebbe to Bwindi.
combo	Nicholas was very attentive throughout the booking process and I felt very comfortable that everything was being managed by a top-notch professional.
combo	We were picked up promptly at 7 am from our hotel by our guide-- William.
combo	We spent the entire three days with him as he told us his story and shared more about the history to Uganda.
combo	William was an excellent guide during our time there and he was gracious enough to let us see more of the beautiful country beyond the forest.
combo	We stayed in the Batiga Lodge for two nights as part of our package.
combo	It is an eco-lodge that supplies clean drinking water to the local community.
combo	We were treated to excellent service throughout our stay by Edwin and the rest of the staff.
combo	It was a breathtaking sight to see the view of Bwindi from our room and to hear a rainstorm form overhead.
combo	The main attraction was the Gorilla Trek.
combo	There aren't many words that I can describe our day.
combo	First-- the trek was truly a trek that I found extremely demanding.
combo	I'm in my late 30s and by all accounts physically fit, yet I found the hike up the mountain challenging.
combo	Second-- please hire one of the local porters.
combo	Not only does it help the community, but Amos was our sherpa up the mountain and he was there to support us when we needed it.
combo	Once we arrived near the family that we were visiting, we felt safe with our guide and the journey lived up to the hype.
combo	It is hard to imagine the level of intimacy that you feel when looking at these beautful creatures with no cage or boundry.
combo	They invite you into their home to watch them live and it is truly amazing.
combo	We are so pleased that we went with Devine African Safaris.
combo	Everything was excellent from Nicholas, to our guide William, to our accomodations, to our incredible wildlife experience."
combo	"My sister and I recently booked an amazing trip to see the last of the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Uganda with an amazing guide Herbert.
combo	We decided on Devine because Nicholas was not only prompt with his detailed responses but also had great advice like the cost of permits is significantly cheaper in Uganda than in Rwanda in addition to the many five star reviews.
combo	The trip was remarkable filled with exciting activities and some quite sombre like the visit to the genocide memorial in Kigali.
combo	Herbert was knowledgeable and took his time to explain the different attractions that we encountered, he was very motivated and enjoyed his job tremendously.
combo	The trip highlight was trekking high and deep into the Bwindi forest with our guide Herbert and then coming face to face with the gorillas.
combo	The 2 hours or so that we spent close to these wonderful creatures is unforgettable.
combo	I am happy that Nicholas booked us nice accommodations just as he'd promised.
combo	I was sad to leave and I wished that I had booked a longer trip"
combo	"Our trip with Devine African Safaris was everything we could have hoped for.
combo	The booking process was smoothly handled with Nicholas being extremely prompt and professional in his communication with us.
combo	Payment via PesaPal was easy and secure.
combo	The tour itself was amazing.
combo	Our guide, Nick, was punctual, professional, and very knowledgeable about Rwandan history, cities and people.
combo	He chaperoned us to our various activities (gorilla trekking and a hike up Mount Bisoke) which were both amazing experiences.
combo	We were able to get less than 2m from a group of 20 gorillas!
combo	Devine African Safaris was extremely accommodating because we actually added the hike to our itinerary last-minute, and they easily adjusted our tour to fit this in.
combo	Nick was also happy to show us the local way of life and took us to a typical Rwandan restaurant - which included a dish with bananas and peanut sauce!
combo	Overall, we had a fantastic time and were happy to support local Rwandan businesses promote their beautiful country.
combo	Would highly recommend Devine African Safaris for your trip!"
combo	"Excellent trip organized by Nicholas at Devine African Safaris.
combo	We did a lot of research before picking Devine and they did not disappoint.
combo	Ultimately, it's the guide that's the difference maker on these trips.
combo	However, most guides are free lancers and would work with multiple companies.
combo	So ultimately, in picking companies, you are just picking the coordinator.
combo	In our case, the coordinator was Nicholas.
combo	Nicholas was very responsive throughout the preparation stages.
combo	Also he was very accommodating to our needs.
combo	Nicholas bought us extra meals when needed, bug spray, etc.
combo	all at the company's expense).
combo	Nicholas also checked in everyday to make sure we were okay.
combo	One quick shout out to our guide, Richard Tayebwa, who was fantastic.
combo	Choose him if he's available."
combo	"My husband and I went to Africa for our honeymoon.
combo	We visited Rwanda and Uganda with Devine African Safaris.
combo	I was so excited to go on that trip since I have never been to Africa.
combo	All my friends told me about how great Africa is and I couldn’t wait to see for myself.
combo	Devine African Safaris did not disappoint.
combo	I saw the greatness of Africa through the amazing trip that Devine African Safaris organized for us.
combo	Nicholas the director worked with to come up with a perfect itinerary.
combo	Boaz was a perfect guide.
combo	The man is knowledgeable about everything in East Africa.
combo	He told us about the history, culture, and politics of the region.
combo	We learnt a lot from him.
combo	He was also so friendly and fun to be around that it made our honeymoon enjoyable.
combo	He was also professional and he couldn’t have given us better service.
combo	After 10 days with Boaz, he had become a close friend.
combo	We were sad to say good bye to him but we hope that we will see him on our next trip to Africa.
combo	Devine African Safaris exceeded all my expectations.
combo	We couldn’t have chosen a better company.
combo	Our honeymoon was a memorable experience because of Devine African Safaris."
combo	"Choosing Devine African Safaris was the best decision I made.
combo	Boaz, my guide, picked me up from the Kigali international airport and transferred me to my Lemigo hotel.
combo	The actual safari started the following day with our drive towards Bwindi forest- home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas.
combo	Boaz was knowledgeable about the culture, flora and fauna in East Africa.
combo	He was so easy to talk to that we became friends.
combo	He also could not stop talking about his country, Uganda.
combo	He told me about the people there, and the best sites to visit while I was there.
combo	We also visited Queen Elizabeth and Kibale National Parks which are lovely attractions with a wide variety of land & water animals as well as birds.
combo	During our trip we stayed at lovely hotels booked by Devine African Safaris.
combo	The hotels were comfortable and provided breakfast.
combo	We were always on time, because of Boaz’s excellent professionalism.
combo	I couldn’t be happier with the company’s choice of hiring Boaz.
combo	I highly recommend Devine African Safaris for any trip that you want to make."
combo	"I had a great experience with both Nicholas L., the Destination Expert, and Nicholas, the Tour Guide.
combo	Nicholas L. did a great job working with me in creating my tour, and worked with me in making some final changes to the original itinerary.
combo	After receiving the payment, he sent me a prompt invoice, and verify the same.
combo	He was also in constant contact and helped me with a few issues that arose with one of the accommodations.
combo	Nicholas, the Tour Guide, was also very professional.
combo	He was always on time, operated safely, was pleasant to travel with, and was knowledgeable about the various wildlife, culture, and news.
combo	I would definitely book with them again."
combo	"My friend Mary and I did the 5 days Ugandan Safari with Devine African Safaris.
combo	We found Boaz waiting for us at Entebbe Airport, he was to be our great guide during the tour, he is not only experreinced but also great company to be with on tour.
combo	Some of the nice highlights include a stop at the Equator point where we took nice pics before proceeding to Queen Elizabeth National park where we saw lions, elephants, zebras and giraffes at Kaisenyi Plains.
combo	In the afternoon did a boat safari in Kazinga channel and saw hippos, strange water birds and many other animals on the banks of the channel.
combo	Another great experience was tracking chimps at Kyambura.
combo	These primates are habituated and were not alarmed when we got close to them.
combo	There were other different monkeys in this place.
combo	Lake Mburo Park was also very nice where we did a boat trip and got close to crocs and many water birds and animals.
combo	We had an amazing time in Uganda and I highly recommend Devine African Safaris"
combo	"I am in Dubai waiting for my connecting flight back home after doing the Gorillas Trekking in Bwindi and later participating in the Kigali Peace Marathon which was absolutely awesome.
combo	We arrived in Kigali Rwanda On Wednesday afternoon where Nicholas had booked us in Lemigo hotel.
combo	On the following day after breakfast Boaz our guide took us to the Sombre Genocide Museum which is a very touching place.
combo	Afterwards he drove us towards the Rwanda Uganda border which we crossed in the afternoon to Uganda.
combo	The drive was smooth and nice through the scenic undulating green hills.
combo	We reached Bakiga Lodge late in the afternoon and it was a nice cosy place set in the edges of the forest.
combo	After breakfast we had the most remarkable experience trekking after the moutain gorillas in the dense forest.
combo	We trekked up the forest for almost 2 hours and then the encountered a family of these amazing creatures.
combo	We stayed with them for about 2 hours just watching them go about their business!
combo	Later in the afternoon we drove to Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort a beautiful lodge on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi On Saturday we drove back to Kigali in preparation for the the marathon.
combo	We took part in the Peace Marathon which was well organized around the beautiful clean city and it was an amazing run.
combo	We stopped over for 2 days in Nairobi Kenya to visit my brother and thank you Nicholas for advising us to get the East Africa Common Visa which allowed us free movement through Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
combo	This has been a very fulfilling experience which Devine African Safaris organized perfectly and I have full confidence and recommend them to all."
combo	"I came to Uganda as a volunteer for a NGO project in Kampla and met Nicholas through my friends who had come on Safari with his company.
combo	He organized a nice itinerary where I got to experience the best of Uganda's parks and wildlife.
combo	I We had Boaz as our guide and he proved to be a very knowledgeable and experienced guide.
combo	He took us to Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi National Park.
combo	The parks offered good variety where we enjoyed different experiences in each.
combo	We got to see Chimpanzees, went on a boat ride a long Kazinga Channel and thn had a remarkable experience tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi forest.
combo	Overall I rate the trip highly because we had very good experiences full of animal sighting in the parks, accommodations were top class, the vehicle was comfortable and the guide amazing.
combo	Very good and professional company and I recommend them."
combo	"Our guide Herbert made all the difference during our 3 days safaris in Uganda.
combo	He picked my colleague and I from our hotel in Kampala after our breakfast Fort Portal Mpanga Tea Estate where we spent the day hiking to the Fort Portal Crater Lake.
combo	We spent our night at the rustic Kibale Forest camp where the following day had another wonderful day trekking in Kibale forest after Chimpanzees in the morning.
combo	Later in the afternoon we drove towards Queen Elizabeth Park.
combo	This Park has many different species of animals and we even had a boat ride in the channel full of hippos!
combo	All through the trip, Herbert was patient, careful and attentive to all our needs.
combo	The company had made good arrangements so that we were not rushed through and had ample time to savour the beautiful surroundings before heading back to our hotel in Kigali to wrap up our assignment."
combo	"My recent visit to Rwanda with my friend John for safari and gorilla trekking with Devine African Safaris was wonderful trip that I will remember for many years to come.
combo	Nicholas was our contact person and he was so professional, prompt responses to emails, flexible and created an itinerary that suited our budget and places that we wanted to visit.
combo	Boaz was a perfect guide during the trip, he is very experienced and an excellent guide; right driving skills and great at spotting game- lions, elephants, zebras, water-buck, hippos, giraffe, buffalo and eland.
combo	I loved trekking up mountain to the Gorillas.
combo	The elevation was steep but our reward of spending time with a family of mountain gorillas was worth the effort.
combo	After the safari we had a free day in Kigali and where Nicholas organized for Boaz to take us to the Genocide Musuem and lunch at a local restaurant serving African dishes.
combo	We enjoyed our time in Rwanda and we thank you Boaz and Nicholas for being excellent hosts."
combo	"We had a wonderful time going on Safari with our super guide Herbert who made a huge positive difference in our tour.
combo	The director Nicholas helped us with the itinerary where he did very well.
combo	The trip was well planned and we were given a sturdy reliable 4x4 vehicle.
combo	Herbert knowledge of wildlife, birds and culture is vast from the way he answered our questions with detailed explanations.
combo	We also liked our accommodations which served great food.
combo	Very clean too and professional staff.
combo	A great company fully worthy the five stars"
combo	"I booked my safari to Uganda with Devine African Safaris and I am very grateful and appreciate that it was well organized by Nicholas who guided us in creating a wonderful itinerary and then assigned us Chris as our guide who turned out to be a fantastic inclusion for he added a lot of value to out trip.
combo	I cannot possibly enumerate all the animals that we saw here but Chris is an excellent guide and took us to the spots where we could see the wildlife well without any interference.
combo	We went to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Parks.
combo	The highlight of our safari was the Gorilla trek though we also enjoyed the boat safari on Kazinga channel.
combo	We had a lot fun on this adventure and we recommend Devine for they were great and one could not ask for more"
combo	"My sister and I recently visited Uganda to see the mountain gorillas and the whole experience has been amazing.
combo	We had a very close encounter with a family of Gorillas and everyone in our group agreed that this was one life changing moment.
combo	Our guide Nicholas had advised us that we needed to be at-least 21 feet away but at times we found ourselves much more closer than that and we did not feel threatened as these calm creatures went on with their business and did not seem to mind us at all.
combo	We also visited 2 other parks and tracked other wild animals like lions, elephants, hippos, zebra, giraffe, hyenas, antelopes making the safari a huge success.
combo	In a nutshell Nicholas organized a fabulous tour and you should not hesitate to book your safari with this company"
combo	"I booked my tour with Devine African Safaris and I could not be happier.
combo	It was way cheaper going with a local operator than it would have been if I had used the international operators.
combo	Chris our guide was knowledgeable and considerate, answered all our questions and listened to everything we requested for and just made it happen.
combo	We enjoyed the parks in Rwanda including the amazing trek to the mountain gorillas.
combo	Chris made a huge difference in our tour and we will leave Rwanda with a better appreciation of its culture, people, beauty and natural resources.
combo	I recommend this wonderful company fully to all my mates."
combo	"We recently went on safari to Uganda and had a wonderful time.
combo	We communicated with Nicholas who made the planing and payment process very smooth.
combo	During the actual safari we went to Queen Elizabeth National park where we saw lots of animals like buffaloes, elephants, hippos, lions, giraffes, monkeys and lots of birds.
combo	We then drove south and came to Bwindi.
combo	We did the Gorilla trekking in search of the mountain gorillas.
combo	We were quite lucky as the trackers located a family and communicate with our guides and we had ample time to marvel at the huge primates.
combo	They go with their business without noticing our presence.
combo	This is a moment that I will remember for the rest of my life.
combo	I am very grateful to Devine African Safaris for getting us to experience that great spectacle.
combo	They are a great company and I fully recommend them"
combo	My husband and I recently did a Gorilla tracking and cultural vacation in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	We arrived in Kigali and then had a tour around the clean city.
combo	We visited the genocide museum and some other cultural sites in Kigali before left Rwanda for Uganda.
combo	We stayed in the lovely Mutanda Resort and it a very nice place by the shores of Lake Mutanda.
combo	The Gorilla tracking adventure the following day was a one in a million experience.
combo	We trekked high up the Mountain and one should be fit to enjoy this activity.
combo	Our trackers led us to a family of Gorillas and we enjoyed the experience very much.
combo	In the evening we had a fantastic evening entertained by a local dancing troop and served with traditional cuisines.
combo	We had a fantastic trip and Chris is a wonderful guide who made our trip successful.
combo	"Our missionary work recently took us to Uganda and we decided to take a days safari to the parks and also try and visit the mountain gorillas.
combo	We contacted Nicholas on very short notice and he was able to organize a fantastic safari to Kibale and Bwindi Parks.
combo	Our guide Chris collected us from our guesthouse in Entebbe and took us for the African adventure.
combo	We saw lots of animals including elephants, hippos, lions, zebras, giraffes and the most captivating moment with a mountain gorilla family.
combo	Trekking after the gorillas is quite taxing due to the high altitude and it was raining however all that wore off when we cam to their nest.
combo	This is a memory that I will carry for the rest of my life.
combo	Thank you Devine African Safaris for organizing this great adventure on such short notice."
combo	"After our long flight from the US for my brother and I it was a delight to find Nicholas waiting for us at the airport in Uganda and transferred to our hotel for the much needed rest after introductions to our guide Simon.
combo	The following day Simon came for us and took us to the JUNGLE for the real African adventure.
combo	We visited 3 parks but engaged in so many activities that I cannot name them all here.
combo	We went for a boat ride on Kazinga Channel, Chimps sanctuary and off course the game drives in Kibale and QE parks not forgetting the trip highlight of trekking after the gorillas in Bwindi.
combo	Simon our guide was an awesome guide.
combo	He gave us the a detailed account of Uganda, culture and so much more such that he made the tour a real life experience of sightseeing and also background behind it.
combo	The Treks are well organized with the wardens only allowing a small number of trekkers at a time.
combo	We came so close with a family of Gorillas and it is an unforgettable experience.
combo	Devine Africa Safaris is great company and we are luck to have received their fantastic service.
combo	I recommend them fully"
combo	"We did the Gorillas Trip to Bwindi with Devine Africa Safaris and we got more than we bargained for literally.
combo	The whole experience was second to none and we got it for a smaller cost than the quotes we had been given by international operators.
combo	Nicholas is a smart and respectful gentleman who made our trip worthwhile.
combo	He made everything easy for us and provided us with all the information that we needed; VISA information, packing list, vaccinations and park information so that by the time we were coming to Uganda we knew all what was required.
combo	The pickup from the airport was on time and the punctuality continued all during the trip.
combo	We had Chris as our guide and he was very good, made sure that we saw all the animals that we wanted, kept our date with the cultural dancers in Mutanda and he is a good orator who captivated us with great narrations.I will give Devine Africa Safaris top marks for delivering on their promise to showcase Uganda, coming up with a well organized and sequential itinerary and hosting us well.
combo	Highly recommended!!"
combo	"Devine were a great option and worked to our budget as we'd specified we wanted to do it in the most cost effective way possible.
combo	The accommodation they booked was great, with fantastic food, our driver Herbert was fun and most importantly, a good safe driver, oh, and we also got a nice present from them as well.
combo	They were also the best price for a budget but a long shot, which after looking at around 10 other operators, nobody got close.
combo	Would recommend"
combo	"We just came back from one of the most remarkable and memorable trips I have undertaken in recent memory.
combo	Nicholas was a darling all the way up until the moment he packed us back on our plane back home.
combo	We were impressed by Devine Africa Tours reviews and it being a local company run by locals.
combo	Nicholas had prompt answers for all our questions, logical suggestions to enrich our itinerary and above all most reasonably priced for the same package.
combo	We initially thought that we could get substandard service for paying less but far from it we were hosted in the same excellent lodges that we had been shown in the other packages.
combo	Nicholas made our trip fun with excellent English and magical guiding skills.
combo	He seemed to pull the animals from the ground and where we thought there was nothing, he ask us to look more keenly and we could see a lions or a leopard that could not see before.
combo	I guess this comes with experience and passion for the job.
combo	For those going to Uganda or Rwanda I highly recommend Devine Africa Safaris and you will get a wonderful experience."
combo	"I had the opportunity to visit Rwanda last December when I came with my family to visit my sister for the Christmas holidays ans we also decided to do do a Gorilla Trek as this has been one thing that I have been hoping to do for a long time.
combo	My sister knew Nicholas and she helped arrange everything for us.
combo	The experience is second to none.
combo	The hike is a bit strenuous and it was raining but when we finally found a huge family of Gorillas all the strain was forgotten in an instant.
combo	Such a lovely sight of a huge male, several females and babies just there eating leaves and kind of posing for the numerous photos that we took.
combo	I am glad to have met this company because they charge very fairly in comparison to the international operators and are very skilled, well educated and informed making them perfect guides."
combo	"We had the most interesting time in Uganda with Devine African Tours.
combo	This was our second trip with Devine Africa Tour, last time we only had 1 day for safari as we had come on business and had a very tight schedule.
combo	This time we wanted to visit the famous mountain gorillas in Bwindi and a few parks in the process.
combo	Nicholas made us a beautiful itinerary which took us to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi.
combo	Spending time with Nicholas was quite something.
combo	He is a great conversationalist and understand nature, conservation and culture and he loves sharing his knowledge.
combo	We saw plenty of game and enjoyed the great Ugandan outdoors.
combo	Gorillas tracking in Bwindi went on well, and we spent about 2 and half hours with a family of Gorillas.
combo	Amazing stuff!!
combo	I recommend Devine Africa Safaris without any reservations"
combo	"We've just completed the most wonderful adventure in Uganda game watching and trekking in search of the endangered mountain gorillas is Bwindi.
combo	We began planning for this trip last year when our friends came back from Uganda and narrate how they had a great adventure.
combo	We got in touch with Nicholas from Devine Africa Tours who had been their guide and started with the preparations.
combo	Nicholas was flexible and allowed us to make changes in the itinerary and also we paid in 3 installments which worked really well for us.
combo	We arrived in Entebbe - Uganda and found Mark from Devine Africa Safaris waiting for us and then our Ugandan Adventure began.
combo	We visited 3 parks - Queen Elizabeth, Kibale and Bwindi.
combo	Each park special in it's own way and with guidance from Mark we wre able to view abundant animals, birds and also experience the Ugandan culture first hand.
combo	The gorilla habituation in Bwindi was special.
combo	The wardens gave us a briefing and then we were put in groups of 8 and the trackers preceded us and notified the guides on the position of the families.
combo	We spent 3 wonderful hours just watching the humble creatures paying around, eating leaves, resting and those are 3 magical hours that I will never forget.
combo	Devine Africa Safaris make magic come true and I recommend them to anyone going to Uganda."
combo	"We found that Devine Africa Safaris have an organized system.
combo	The guides were friendly and knowledgeable.
combo	The trek is not easy due to the steep inclination of the hills, however the Bwindi Gorilla Trek turned out to be the experience of a lifetime.
combo	Watching the gorillas from a close range was an amazing experience, them just going about their business without a care in the world.
combo	Devine is highly recommended!"
combo	"I went to Uganda with my fiancée for the Uganda Gorillas Trek with Devine Africa Safaris with guide Nicholas and he we had an amazing time.
combo	Nicholas has mastered the art and science of handling safaris perfectly.
combo	The booking and payment process had no issues and the safari was perfectly executed.
combo	We made all the stops in our itinerary and the experience was much better than what we expected.
combo	We had many remarkable moments during our safari like the boat ride on Kazinga channel cruising next to hippos and elephants, lions in TREES in Kaisenyi but nothing beats tracking the Gorillas in Bwindi.
combo	Watching these magnificent animals in their families is an experience I will never forget.
combo	Nicholas made our safari memorable.
combo	Listening to his unending stories about Uganda’s history, culture and nature was music to our ears.
combo	We are definitely going to tell all our friends about the wonderful Nicholas and Devine Africa Safaris!"
combo	"I booked a 5 day Safari including the famous Gorilla Trek to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park with Devine Africa Safaris.
combo	I spoke with Nicholas about my Safari and he allayed all my fears and even helped in firming up my itinerary.
combo	My tour began from Entebbe airport where our guide Chris picked me and drove us to our hotel in Entebbe.
combo	The following morning we began our tour in earnest when we were picked from our hotel and driven westward to Kibale National Park in the foothills of Ruwenzori Mountains.
combo	We had a great afternoon touring Magombe Swamps and got to see many water birds, hippos, monkeys and elephants.
combo	We spent the night in the lovely Primate Lodge with very comfortable rooms and great food.
combo	The following morning took us tracking chimps in Kibale and we saw a family of about 10 playing after which we were driven to the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	We spent the night in Marafiki Safari Lodge which was also very good.
combo	We woke up to a game drive in Kaisenyi plains and Chris was a master in spotting wildlife.
combo	We saw 2 prides of lions, elephant herds, warthogs, bushbucks and many others.
combo	We were then driven to Haven Lodge on the edge of Bwindi.
combo	This was our last day on safari which took us for the gorilla habituation trek, after registration and briefing by the park rangers.
combo	We trekked for about 2 hours and then came to a family of Mountain Gorillas.
combo	These creatures are just amazing and we were awed by their nature.
combo	Chis was an awesome guide during the whole of this safari and we had a fantastic time."
combo	"The whole experience with Devine African Safaris was amazing and I had such a wonderful time.
combo	It was my first time visiting Rwanda and Uganda and no previous experience with tour operators in the region before, I was a bit worried to book a small independent tour operator.
combo	But I guarantee there is nothing to worry about, choosing Devine African Safaris was an excellent decision!
combo	Starting with Nicholas, who was very helpful and responsive during the booking process.
combo	He provided me with all the information I needed and customized my trip according to my preferences and personal interests.
combo	In the end I booked a 4 day trip ( 1 day trip to the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village and a 3 day, 2 night trip from Kigali to Uganda for the Gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable forest).
combo	Herbert (my driver) was exactly on time picking me up in Kigali.
combo	He was a really friendly and informative guide and very knowledgeable of the region.
combo	I felt very safe with him and there was always time along the way to stop the car for taking some nice pictures of the beautiful landscape of Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The accommodation and restaurants chosen by Devine Safaris were excellent.
combo	I stayed at the Bwindi Backpackers Lodge, an eco-friendly lodge located in the southern area of Bwindi National Park.
combo	The staff were pleasant, the food was excellent, and my room was comfortable.
combo	Trekking the Gorillas was truly a memorable experience and can’t be described in words.
combo	All in all I would always choose Devine African Safaris again and can highly recommend them to anyone who is going to visit Rwanda or Uganda.
combo	I definitely would love to go back some day in the future.
combo	Thanks Devine African Safaris for a wonderful and unforgettable experience!"
combo	"We booked a Gorillas Trekking safari with Devine Africa Safaris in Uganda and the experience has surpassed all our my expectations.
combo	Nicholas handled everything so well, he was prompt to respond to all my emails and queries and helped us planning an excellent itinerary.
combo	Our driver Chris was better than good, very knowledgeable, easy going and caring with very detailed and well thought out answers to our numerous questions about Uganda and the parks.
combo	We saw so many animals and for each sighting we got a detailed narration about them.
combo	Our accommodations were also very good and in the evenings we could be happy that we took the suggestions from Nicholas.
combo	We had a very enjoyable time in Uganda and we recommend Devine African Safaris!"
combo	"We went on a Gorillas trekking safari in Volcanoes park in Rwanda with our friends and we had an incredible experience.
combo	We had James as our guide and he is an excellent guide with inexhaustible knowledgeable about the Gorillas, their behavior and also very good with the birds too.
combo	He easily identified all the birds that we saw during the trip.
combo	The trackers led us to a family of about 12 gorillas where we spent about two and half hours enjoying the wonderful experience, taking numerous photos of the family and it was just amazing.
combo	We were very proud to be part of the conservation work as the permit fees are used to conserve this endangered species.
combo	Devine Africa Safaris over delivered on the gorilla experience and are our new found friends.
combo	A big thank you to the Devine African Safaris!
combo	We will be back"
combo	"When I together with my 2 sisters finally made the decision to do a gorilla trekking safari we started scouring the net for various options available.
combo	We were keen on working directly with a local operator as they are the ones that take you on tour.
combo	We sent out a number of inquiries to various operators and when we compared the various quotes Devine Africa Safaris was a clear favourite.
combo	The bid from Nicholas was very detailed giving us the various budgetary options and even advice on how to link the destinations in sequence so as to maximize on the time we spent in the parks.
combo	This was our very first time in Africa and we did not know what to expect, however Nicholas assured us we were in good hands.
combo	When we finally came for the Safari we were very impressed with our guide Nixon, he was a perfect gentleman and also very well informed.
combo	We had a great time in Bwindi tracking the mountain gorillas and spending about 3 hours so close to the amazing beasts.
combo	We also visited other parks and even took a boat game tour down Kazinga channel which was another amazing experience.
combo	We are happy that we went with Devine A. Safaris and recommend them to anyone thinking of doing a Gorilla Tracking Safari"
combo	"My boyfriend and I enjoyed a Fantastic African Adventure in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	We ended up with a great itinerary thanks to Nicholas who helped us on putting the itinerary together staying at nice hotels and visiting parks packed full of wonderful flora and fauna.
combo	Incidentally Nicholas was also our guide for the trip and he is an outstanding man; very thorough and attentive to detail and leaving nothing to chance.
combo	He ensured that the vehicle was always clean, stocked with water and soft drinks but more importantly a very knowledgeable and excellent guide.
combo	We managed to see so much game in all the parks we visited.
combo	I loved this company and in the future when I have a family I hope to bring to them on Safari and my company of choice will be Devine Africa Safaris."
combo	"We just returned from a Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Devine Africa Safaris.
combo	We opted for Uganda because the permits in Bwindi are considerably cheaper and we also wanted to combine the trek with a few days of Safari.
combo	We visited Queen Elizabeth, Kibale and Bwindi National Parks where we saw lots of animals however the highliht of our tour was the Gorilla habituation trek in Bwindi.
combo	We were well hosted by Devine African Safaris and they are absolutely a fantastic company to go on safari with"
combo	We booked a 4 day tour in Rwanda and Uganda tour with Devine Africa Safaris and it has been such a wonderful experience.
combo	From our first contact Nicholas was absolutely fantastic and guided us through the booking and payment process.
combo	We found waiting for us when we arrived in Kigali late in the night and he was there the next morning with our safari vehicle to take us to for the Gorilla trekking.
combo	He was very knowledgeable with excellent humour and a great source of information.
combo	Seeing the Gorillas and Golden Monkeys in their natural setting was a very beautiful experience.
combo	We are very grateful to Devine African Safaris for giving us such a memorable experience.
combo	"We had the most wonderful safari and Gorilla trekking experience through Devine Africa Safaris.
combo	The Company takes pride in personalizing the safari to the client and this is exactly what we got.
combo	Nicholas was our first point of contact and he was very professional and responsive to all our enquiries.
combo	Incidentally Nicholas was also our safari guide, he is an excellent driver, navigating the bumpy roads of the safari with great ease and confidence.
combo	His expertise was significant in knowing where to identify and how close to approach all the game.
combo	All the accommodations selected were on point, very clean with ensuite bathrooms and showers with heated water on request, and served delicious meals.
combo	We were able to see elephants, buffalo, lions, rhinoceros, baboons, gazelles, wildebeest, giraffe and the highlight of the tour- Gorillas in Bwindi."
combo	Devine Safaris put together a terrific trip for us at about 50% of the cost of U.S. based companies.
combo	We were happy with our guide and all the accommodations.
combo	We did the gorillas and golden monkeys in Rwanda; also gorillas and chimpanzees in Uganda
combo	"Superb company, excellent people.
combo	Nicholas was fabulous.
combo	Right from the start, by understanding that some tourists might be somewhat reticent or even overwhelmed by the prospect of travelling to the center of Africa.
combo	He communicates well and is proactive with his clients.
combo	Any, and I do mean ""any"" questions are promptly addressed and very promptly responded to.
combo	He is, as are many Ugandans, gentle, friendly and kind.
combo	We took a 9 day safari to 4 National Parks.
combo	Our driver and ""main man"" was William.
combo	Again a very genuinely nice person who was a fantastic companion for my wife and myself over many miles.
combo	He went out of his way (even at his own expense) to ensure we experienced everything we wanted to do and see.
combo	And we did see everything.
combo	One thing to keep in mind is that driving conditions in Uganda are unlike what many North Americans have experienced.
combo	It is not a factor to take for granted.
combo	I have driven in many countries for over 50 years and there is absolutely no way I could have driven as effectively or as professionally as William.
combo	Asante.
combo	The highlight, obviously, was seeing the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi.
combo	But this is not to minimise seeing hundreds of elephants, numerous lions, chimps, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, crocs, hyenas, monkeys, baboons, various ungulates and the elusive leopard.
combo	We travelled in the latter part of January.
combo	The weather was dry, not excessively hot nor were the insects much of an issue at all.
combo	Nicholas has also endeavoured to secure relationships with hotels and lodges that ensure comfort and fine dining.
combo	The lodges at Murchison River, Crater Lake, Bush Lodge and the Gorilla Safari Lodge were all pleasant surprises and good experiences.
combo	All in all----the trip of a lifetime."
combo	"We toured Uganda in summer 2018 and the Safari Tour was absolutely amazing.
combo	We started our tour in Queen Elizabeth NP where we viewed huge numbers of elephants, buffaloes and monkeys.
combo	We were also lucky to view 2 prides of lions and a leopard.
combo	Our next stop was Kibale NP that where we viewed Chimpanzees and very many hippos wallowing in Kazinga channel where we toured by boat.
combo	We then drove to Bwindi NP and stayed at the Lake Mutanda Resort.
combo	We spent close to 3 full hours with the Gorillas as the warders start the 4 hour count from the moment you spot the first night nest and thanks to our guides they spotted a family of 16 females under the protection of a gigantic silver-back.
combo	It was an absolutely amazing experience with Devine African Safaris."
combo	"I visited Rwanda and it is such a beautiful country, so green with rolling hills.
combo	Devine Africa Safaris arranged my tour and everything went so smoothly.
combo	Nicholas put together a great itinerary where our tour started in Kigali with a visit to the Rwanda Genocide Memorial Museum, a very somber place.
combo	Nicholas then drove us to Bwindi in Uganda in search of gorillas for the habituation tour.
combo	Spent a good 4 hours in the forest trekking several families.
combo	I was happy that Nicholas arranged for us to visit Rwanda and Uganda as we got to sample the best from the 2 countries for a budget that was lowest in comparison with the other tours operators that we spoke with.
combo	Devine is a great company and I am very happy with them."
combo	"I took my girlfriend on the four days Rwanda gorilla trekking safari hosted by Devine Africa safaris in December.
combo	Our guide Nicholas picked us from lemigo hotel in Kigali and drove us to volcanoes national Park where we arrived in the afternoon rested Abit and then went to musanze cave tour.
combo	The second day was most exciting as we embarked on the gorilla trekking in search of the rare mountain gorillas.
combo	We had a tour briefing by the park wardens and spent the rest of the day trekking.
combo	Nicholas was very knowledgeable about all the best trails to follow and when we finally came to a family of habituated gorillas, it was worth the effort.
combo	We spent the following day exploring the park and even saw the rare golden monkeys winding down at the grave of Diane fossey.
combo	Nicholas I am coming back this November for Uganda tour that we talked about."
combo	"It has always been in my bucket list to visit the Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda and early last year I decided to get this done.
combo	I did not have prior experience with Tour operators from Africa so I went TripAdvisor where from the reviews I zeroed in on 3 operators with whom I made initial inquiries.
combo	Nicholas of Devine Africa Safaris was pretty quick to share various options and their costs were reasonable and had a flexible payment plan.
combo	He continued to impress and when I finally made the decision in April on it was a no brainer that I chose to go with Devine Africa Safaris.
combo	The Safari in Rwanda was out of this world.
combo	Well organized timely transfers, comfortable vehicles, great accommodations and great food.
combo	I reserve special thanks for our guide Chris who went out his way to ensure that we had a great time viewing game and even when it came to the ultimate gorilla tracking we had very close encounters with the Gorillas.
combo	I recommend Devine Africa Safaris for their professionalism and love of their work.
combo	Thank you Nicholas."
combo	"We had a great X-mas and New Year holidays experience thanks to Devine African Safaris.
combo	The Safari was action packed with lots of animals; birdlife, marine-life, cats, and off course primates.
combo	The Gorilla Habituation Experience takes the prize for uniqueness and thrill.
combo	I will never forget the 4 hours that we spent with the Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
combo	Such interesting animals and it’s a pity that only so few are left living freely in the world.
combo	Thank you, Nicholas for putting together such a great itinerary and taking care of us during the safari.
combo	We will be back next year for a different experience."
combo	"It was a wonderful experience.
combo	Nice weather.
combo	Friendly environment.
combo	The staff are very friendly and welcoming.
combo	I cannot wait to visit there again. . - Panyaste , Berlin Germany"
combo	"We are now back home and I want to thank you for the wonderful time we had with your team during the 7 day Chimps, Water and Gorillas Safari with Devine African Safaris, we had such a wonderful experience.
combo	Everything was flawlessly arranged, from the transfers, accommodation in and the game-drives/tracking sessions.
combo	The number and variety of animals that we saw during the tour is incredible; Lions, elephants, buffaloes, cheetah, chimps, hippos and lots of water birds.
combo	We must have seen almost all the species of tropical wild game in the brochure.
combo	Our last stop in the adventure was Bwindi which amazed us thanks to Devine Africa Safaris guide William.
combo	He was patient with me despite me slowing our group of 5 and we managed to see 3 families of Silver-backs.
combo	I give you five stars rating for effort and perfect delivery of the safari."
combo	"What a memorable experience!
combo	My family has always wanted to do a Gorilla tour and when the time came, we embarked on getting a local tour agency to organize our tour in Uganda.
combo	Devine African Safaris was recommended by our close family friends Joseph and Margret who used them in 2017 and had a great experience.
combo	I must say that I was impressed with Nicholas from the on-set, he was very timely in his responses and offered invaluable advice in replying to our numerous emails as we planned out our itinerary.
combo	His attention to detail is exemplary, and we were pleasantly surprised when we found him at Entebbe waiting to welcome us and even dropped us off at our hotel.
combo	The Tour itself was an amazing experience; we started off at Kibale National Park where we had the amazing experience of visiting Magombe Swamp where we saw countless birds and even some rare monkeys.
combo	The highlight of Kibale was, of course, tracking the Chimps in their funny groups.
combo	Queen Elizabeth was great too.
combo	We really enjoyed the boat ride on Kazinga channel, seeing the hippos so close and the herds of elephants by the banks.
combo	The highlight of the whole safari was the 2 days we spent in Bwindi Impenetrable forest tracking the Gorillas.
combo	I count myself lucky that our guide Busulwa was so knowledgeable on all the trees, birds, tracks and he, together with the wardens, led us to very close encounters.
combo	They always knew where the Gorillas were.
combo	We never imagined we could get so close wow!!!
combo	We will definitely be back and I recommend Devine Africa Safaris"
combo	Gorilla trekking has been something on our bucket list for a loooong time.
combo	This outfit did a great job tracking the families before we set out to ensure we would find them.
combo	We got much closer to the gorillas than we expected and the whole trip was terrific
combo	It was really nice we enjoyed the canopy walk way and they provide good service to us thank you!
combo	The reception was amazing and the guides
combo	Beautiful park and well protected.
combo	Its a pitty the park is not connected to any other and surounded by agriculture
combo	During my tour with guests at Nyungwe National park it was great because we saw alot of species of birds and trees in nice environment plus monkeys and many more.
combo	"Canopy was great - easy hike on a trail, great views, monkeys/ birds, and of course the thrill!
combo	Chimp trekking - shocked there aren’t worse reviews.
combo	It requires a 5am pick up, an hour of bad roads (total driving each way was 90 minutes) and a lot of off trail hiking (really just sliding up and down hill) for 20 minutes of seeing them from fairly far away because they are up in the trees.
combo	If I had known it would be so time consuming and challenging, I wouldn’t have gone and I’m an avid hiker.
combo	I had a great porter but I thought the guide had unrealistic expectations for how fast tourists could hike - everyone on the trip fell at least once because it’s uneven and muddy.
combo	Altogether it was nearly 6 hours of driving/ hiking/ standing In the forest for the 20 minutes we saw them.
combo	Of course some people may have better experiences but due to chimps moving so much/ so quickly, it makes it very challenging.
combo	I had enjoyed the monkey treks much more."
combo	Very nice place in Africa ...I didn't ever get a good moment like this.
combo	Proud to visit Rwanda.
combo	Proud to work with Jean Paul from Nile Tours and Travels .
combo	The park is beautiful.
combo	We chose the longer walk and would have probably preferred a shorter one in the morning and the aerial walkin the afternoon.
combo	"This was my second visit to Nyungwe National Park so clearly I think it's worth a visit but there are a few frustrations that let it down.
combo	The first thing I want to say is DON'T BE CONNED INTO BOOKING IN ADVANCE (like I was!).
combo	You actually can't book in advance!
combo	I found a few companies who I thought were linked to the Park but they're just tour operators who take your money plus a 'small' (25%!!
combo	admin fee.
combo	The Park do accept these payments but, as you can only book on the day, there's absolutely no need to do this.
combo	You turn up at Uwinka Reception at (or before) 9am and book and pay for your trek.
combo	They only accept card payments and at the time of writing you have to have a negative rapid antigen COVID test certificate which you can't get at reception (you can get them in Kitabi).
combo	This booking process is, unsurprisingly, quite lengthy so don't expect a quick start.
combo	There are a range of different hike options (Trip Advisor>Nyungwe National Park>Visit Website takes you to nyungweforest.com.
combo	If you scroll down and click the 'Hiking in Nyungwe Forst' link you can see all the available treks).
combo	I have done three of the trails so have had three different guides who have ranged from OK to indifferent to poor.
combo	One did take time to talk to us and tell us what we were seeing but the other two mostly marched on ahead and hardly spoke to us.
combo	On my first visit I did the Umuyove Trail in the morning and the Irebero Trail in the afternoon.
combo	The advantage of this is that the two treks are quite different - the first one takes you down into the rainforest and past a waterfall with the possibility (but no guarantee) of seeing birds (unlikely) and monkeys (more likely); the second does include the forest but also takes you out at the top where you get views of Burundi and Lake Kivu.
combo	You also get a break in the middle with a chance to rest and get some lunch.
combo	The disadvantage is that most of the treks are the same price ($40, some are more) however long they are and there is no discount for booking two treks so this cost me $80.
combo	This time I did the Imbaraga Trail which is 6 hours but still only costs $40.
combo	My experience is that it's like doing the Umuyove Trail but for 6 hours instead of 3!
combo	It's extremely tough.
combo	You go steep down, down, down, then steeply up, up, up.
combo	You see an awful lot of trees and vegetation but very little in the way of views.
combo	There are some impressive waterfalls and we did see colobus monkeys very distantly but definitely don't do this if you want guaranteed monkey viewings.
combo	It's good walk but I definitely think the Umuyove and Irebero option is better, it's just annoying about the cost."
combo	Amazing.
combo	Note that a negative PCR test is needed to enter.
combo	The canopy bridge was beautiful.
combo	Especially loved the chimpanzee trek.
combo	Keep in mind they’re fast so it can be a pretty intense vertical trek.
combo	Walking sticks are complimentary.
combo	Overall such a wonderful experience!
combo	Definitely recommend !
combo	A rainforest not to miss!
combo	The climate is so cool with beautiful calls of endemics birds!
combo	I can't forget the great experience of chimpanzee trekking!
combo	"Whatever you do, DO NOT miss the Canopy Bridge.
combo	Worth the hike in and out.
combo	A bit scary but you feel great having done it."
combo	"We thoroughly enjoyed our chimp trek - our guide Everest was great, and my porter Fabien took very good care of me.
combo	Yes you have to get up early, ride on bumpy roads, and hike steep and slippery areas - but it was thrilling to see the chimps, and in a mountain rain forest!
combo	We also enjoyed the canopy walk.
combo	Rain scared others away, but it stopped and my husband and I were the only ones hiking.
combo	The guide was excellent and seemed to know every bird, tree and plant."
combo	"This National Park in the southern region of Rwanda.
combo	The drive into the park is pretty spectacular with monkeys darting across the road and stunning landscapes.
combo	We participated in the Chimpanzee trekking which requires a very early start - our pick up from the hotel was at 5:00am.
combo	We had an hour drive to the park with the last 30 minutes on an EXTREMELY bumpy road.
combo	Our trek began at approximately 7:00am and was mostly down hill for the start.
combo	The path was well marked and open however it had many visible roots, branches and leaves.
combo	Within 30 minutes our rangers had found some chimps for us to watch.
combo	We then followed them around in the forest through thick brush for about an hour and observed them up in the trees.
combo	During this time our guide gave us many details about the forest and the chimp's behaviours.
combo	Our climb out was mainly uphill and took approximately an hour.
combo	It was quite strenuous.
combo	Our other activity in the park was to the Canopy Walk.
combo	We took the Igishigishigi trail which is approximately 2 hours - on the way it is all down hill.
combo	The bridge is 70m high and 160m long broken into three sections.
combo	Fantastic views over the rainforest.
combo	Unfortunately the trek back was all uphill and very steep.
combo	It took about an hour to climb back out.
combo	Both guides we had were professional and very knowledgeable."
combo	"Various hiking routes, but always with lots of ups and downs, sometimes steep and slippery.
combo	Guide always required"
combo	Phenomenal!
combo	Most underrated spot on Rwanda....
combo	I did the chimp trekking with the guide David and he was incredible.
combo	Ten out of ten.
combo	Beautiful park.
combo	Driving true the park is beautiful.
combo	With monkeys on the street and a maximum speed of 40 km/h you can take extra time to let it all get in.
combo	In the forrest we did the canopy tour.
combo	It’a a beautiful walk to the canopy and has some great viewingpoints.
combo	The guides are great as well!
combo	A must go in Rwanda.
combo	Long trek to the waterfall but we’ll worth it.
combo	The canopy walk is a must.
combo	We also trekked to see the chimps which was spectacular.
combo	"The landscape if breathtaking and the air is so clean, you feel your body using all of its senses to take it i n."
combo	"Nyungwe national Park is a forest park where it located in Southwest part of Rwanda near the border of Burundi.
combo	This park is more famous because of it's wonderful atrractons that you find there like Canopy Walk, The Source of Nile River and more than 250 bird species, chimpanzees... and so many things that help it to becomes amazing."
combo	"Nyungwe is indeed spectacular.
combo	For the forest lovers, you always get refreshed to be in a different world, Nyungwe.Whenever i visit, i get refreshed and get amazed by nature lovers along the trip.
combo	Would indeed highly recommend it."
combo	"The Canopy Walkway is EXTREMELY well built.
combo	Because you can't see all the way to the bottom, it is somehow less scary.
combo	Our kids were fine.
combo	We took a few deep breaths.
combo	But then did it again.
combo	The Ishigishigi Trail takes you to the Canopy Walkway, but it is a good 2 hours of steep up and down with a small family and involved some carrying on the way back.
combo	We then saw monkeys near Gisakura with a guide.
combo	It was 1 hour and $40 per adult.
combo	But you don't pay to get in to the park and this is the equivalent.
combo	We saw a few Colobus, and it was OK. Not sure we'd rush back to do it again though.
combo	The staff at Nyungwe were great and went out of their way to be helpful.
combo	Our Covid tests hadn't come through from RBC and the park staff chased them so we could go on the trails.
combo	We booked online for the Canopy Walkway which was easy.
combo	We broke din person at Gisakura for the monkeys, but this simple meant that they booked online for us.
combo	Took a while!"
combo	"The payment and registration process at the Uwinka reception center was quite smooth and timely.
combo	The briefing process was quite informative and my designated guide was extremely friendly.
combo	I had expected the wallk to be tideous as was mentioned during the briefing, but i was done in 40 minutes.
combo	The views of the lush canopy of trees was breathtaking and the air extremely fresh.
combo	I highly recommend the walk for anyone exploring Rwanda."
combo	"As part of a student travel group, we visited Nyungwe to learn more about the ecosystem, its conservation, and the animals here.
combo	Our entire group of 16 people did the trek in different groups.
combo	If you plan on doing the chimp trek, please be prepared and take time to do some hiking before the trip.
combo	My group, which left at 7 AM, only walked about half an hour before seeing chimps and were in the forest for maybe 2 hours.
combo	However, another group that left at 5 AM was in the forest for 7 hours total.
combo	That being said, the experience is unlike anything else.
combo	We got to see a small group of maybe 8 chimps for around an hour, with the alpha male sitting on the ground maybe 20 feet in front of us.
combo	Our guide was friendly and helpful, encouraging us to move to spots where we could see better and taking pictures for us so that we could focus on watching the chimps.
combo	The canopy walk was also great.
combo	While I am not a fan of heights, I could appreciate how stable it was and what an excellent view of the forest it provided us with."
combo	"We started our canopy walk at 8 o'clock, with our amazing guide Shandak.
combo	The canopy was beautiful, but it was our guide who made the trip unforgettable.
combo	He seemed to know everything about the plants, flowers and animals.
combo	He showed us different types of monkeys and squirrels on the way, he supported my mom on the slippery tracks (wear good shoes during rainy season) and he helped me cross the bridge and made my fear of hights dissappear!"
combo	We did the Canopy Trek one day and the Chimpanzee Trek is he next.
combo	Both were excellent.
combo	The guides were very good and the experiences were unforgettable.
combo	We also appreciated the traditional dancers after the Chimpanzee Trek.
combo	They were awesome.
combo	Nice touch.
combo	"What a beautiful and unforgettable experience Early morning we drove thought the mountains and the tea fields The trek was short but intense, Chimp move so fast , the ranger team and our Guid Augustin were so well organized , I felt save and free, I saw beauties of the rain forest and discover wild life On Afternoon it was a monkeys trek , so pleasant too Highly recommend"
combo	"We did a hike (the Umuyove (Mahogany) trail) of about 2,5 hours, which led us through the beautiful rainforest, with some gorgeous views and one waterfall (not so spectacular).
combo	The hike was not difficult, sometimes a bit slippery and some ascensions, but we were lucky and had great weather the whole morning even though we came in the rainy season.
combo	One thing to be aware of is that they no longer accept cash payments in any of Rwanda’s three parks since June/July 2019.
combo	We were not aware of this (and neither was the 11th edition of Lonely Planet East Africa), so we had some problems when we wanted to pay.
combo	A creditcard plus verification is now needed.
combo	They don’t make exceptions, and there were some problems for other tourists that morning with making the creditcard payments too so we couldn’t make use of the whole day.
combo	The hiking trails generally cost $40 per person, no matter how many.
combo	The canopy trail is an additional $60, so we didn’t do that one.
combo	Another thing our guidebook hadn’t been updated on is that the Uwinka reception office (from which most trails start, although only two or three can be started if you don’t have your own transport.
combo	There may be a chance to ask them to bring you to a trailhead further on with their own jeeps but we heard from other visitors they wouldn’t do this) does accept bookings and payments.
combo	So you can book/pay at all three offices: Kitabi, Uwinka and Gisakura.
combo	The website for online booking and payment is irembo.gov.rw."
combo	"The place was simply breathtaking, staff were welcoming, food was full of flavours and most of all the infinity pool that made it more worth the long drive.
combo	love it"
combo	Went to see the mountain gorillas but actually went in via Uganda as the visa was much cheaper than on the Rwanda side.
combo	Hard work to trek into the forest but certainly worth it to be up close and personal with these beautiful creatures!
combo	"Your looking for something which will give you a cool feel, relaxed and have a lovely moment with your loved one.
combo	This is the place to be.
combo	The landscape is lovely.
combo	I have done a lot of safaris for my self and my clients, as i am a tour operator based in Uganda and Rwanda, but this place is epic.
combo	The canopy walk is so lovely as it gives you a great moment to taste your inner soul.
combo	You hike and sweep and enjoy the whole activity.
combo	This is wonderful and one of its kind.
combo	You want a package, just email me, am ready to serve as usual."
combo	"I went to the forest with them help if BB Travels and Jeffrey Travels.
combo	The staff and rangers at the forest are knowledgeable and friendly.
combo	The forest is immense with so many different animals and birds.
combo	I especially enjoyed seeing for the first time in my life the Cinnamon chested bee eater, Red faced woodland wobbler - endemic, Regal sunbird - endemic, and African hill babbler.
combo	Outstanding experience and wish I could have stayed longer."
combo	"and it was worth it.
combo	A guide and 6 trackers helped us bushwack down 1200 feet to find the troop.
combo	We watched for a generous hour, then the chimps were ready to leave trees for the day.
combo	One ran up the hill past us only 10 feet away; a great experience to cap the trek.
combo	Then we had to do the 1200 feet back up the hill and the trackers and guide helped tow us up the hill.
combo	We were a group of 4 relatively fit 50-somethings, but not athletes.
combo	The downhill was hard for a member with a bad knee, but we all made it!
combo	The permit purchase and check-in process was byzantine: Go to Rwanda Development Board website and follow link to irembo website to purchase permit.
combo	When we got to the ranger station before 5 pm prior day had to transcribe all the info into a handwritten logbook -- passport, birthdate, etc."
combo	"We did the chimp trekking and colobus trekking.
combo	The rating is based on the beauty of the forest, the abundance of monkey and chimp sightings, and the trails.
combo	Some of the trails had steps and benches.
combo	Daniel happened to be our guide on both occasions and he was terrific.
combo	He was also a maestro at taking pictures with our phones through the binoculars.
combo	Visitors should be aware of a few things though: Chimp Trekking - Long day.
combo	The terrain was dry and in some places steep.
combo	However, the trek was worth the reward.
combo	The trackers were amazing.
combo	We found the chimps after about 45 minutes of walking and they were on the move.
combo	The trackers kept on their heels and we saw them on the ground (one was even running).
combo	They continued to track them until a resting spot and we stayed there for a good hour and watched them climb and eat.
combo	There were several ant colonies.
combo	Definitely tuck your pants into your socks.
combo	The porters were valuable both with helping on steep areas, and also clearing ants from your shoes/clothes if needed.
combo	Colobus - short hike, some through tea fields.
combo	Markedly easier than chimps.
combo	The trackers again were amazing finding and following the monkeys.
combo	No porters needed.
combo	Total trip was 3 hours.
combo	Canopy tour was under maintenance, unfortunately."
combo	"This place is worth making time to visit.
combo	The park has remarkable primary rainforest with a fascinating fauna.
combo	Other reviews online have complained that the activities are very managed (hikes start 2 times per day and you need a guide).
combo	We didn't find this onerous and some of the guides (especially Hope) are extremely knowledgeable.
combo	They are managing the activities in this way because they want tourism to be economically and environmentally sustainable, which I respect.
combo	We are hikers and enjoyed the trails.
combo	The chimp tracking was a highlight, but note that, depending on where the chimpanzees happen to be, this may involve bushwhacking off trail on steep slopes.
combo	It's not dangerous (you are in good hands with the trackers), but it is physically demanding.
combo	I'd recommend boots with ankle support, though I managed OK wearing running shoes.
combo	The effort was well worth it for us.
combo	We spent three hours chasing chimps across the landscape, including long periods watching them from near the trees they were frolicking in.
combo	An inspiring adventure!"
combo	"Let me be very clear: the 2/5 grade is not on the forest itself, which is beautiful, but on the way activities are handled.
combo	One month in advance we booked and payed 60$ for the canopy trail and just a few days before leaving we received an email saying that the canopy was closed due to maintenance (surprise!
combo	), but that we could change our activity.
combo	We then chose a coloured trail and discovered that the 20$ difference in price were lost.
combo	The day after, we planned to trek the group of colobus monkeys close to Uwinka, but we have been told that the only group available was the one close to Gisakura.
combo	We then payed 60$ per person for a ""trek"" that lasts no longer than 15 min, and we basically did not put a single feet inside the forest since the group stays on the trees at the edge of the forest.
combo	I understand that there are fees to pay to preserve the forest, and that's good, but we ended up paying 120$ each + tips for just a couple of hours inside the park... Be very careful when you chose an activity, some might be great but some will deceive you."
combo	"We were here during the rain season, so obvious: we had rain!
combo	Nevertheless I would recommend to visit Rwanda including this park in the rain season.
combo	A big plus is that there are very few tourists.
combo	So we had twice a guide for ourselves.
combo	The canope walk is a must of course.
combo	Strangely enough, the costs of a 1.5 hour walk is $60 per person and a 3.5 hour trail is $40.... Don't miss this park during your stay in Rwanda!"
combo	The Western province is scenic with the lush hills and tea plantations.
combo	Nygunwe is a little gem in the heart of the province with mountain monkeys crossing the road and chimpanzees playing in the trees.
combo	The canopy walk is also worth doing for those who are not afraid of heights.
combo	I rate this park higher than Akagera because you are able to walk around and explore.
combo	"I had been interested in Nyungwe because of the opportunity to do a chimpanzee trek, and when I learned that the cost of gorilla trek permits in Volcanoes National Park is reduced by a third for all travelers including another national park for a few days in their itinerary, I was sold.
combo	I am so very glad that we spent a few days in Nyungwe.
combo	The landscape became more and more lovely as we drove from Kigali to Nyungwe NP.
combo	During our time there, we did a chimpanzee trek, the guided canopy walk, a colobus monkey trek, and a visit to a nearby tea plantation (with an excellent opportunity to do some birding).
combo	The chimpanizee trek is evidently always unpredictable in terms of length, difficulty, and opportunity to see some chimps, so I consider us lucky to have only had to hike for about 25 minutes down a slippery but manageable slope before first hearing--then seeing--a whole troop of chimps enjoying breakfast high in a ficus tree.
combo	My husband, who is 73, found the porter's help invaluable in maneuvering the descent and eventual ascent.
combo	The canopy walk was pleasant but disappointing in that we saw no birds or animals at all.
combo	Still, it was great fun crossing the suspension bridges.
combo	Our ""trek"" to see the colobus monkeys turned out to be only a short stroll adjacent to a tea plantation, since that's where one of the troops of these beautiful creatures had gathered that particular day.
combo	Although none ever descended to ground level (not surprising since they are the most arboreal of African monkeys), we saw dozens upon dozens climbing in the trees--some sitting sedately, and others actively leaping from branch to branch.
combo	A highlight for us was sighting a mother with a snow-white baby (they don't develop their black and white fur until they're older).
combo	Mom sat stoically as her little one climbed over, under, and around her.
combo	Do include a visit to a nearby tea plantation when you visit Nyungwe.
combo	The gently rolling fields are beautiful and you'll have a chance to watch the farmers at work.
combo	It seems that most people who travel to Rwanda do so to see the remarkable gorillas in VNP.
combo	There is so much more to see and do in this beautiful country, and at a minimum, travelers should seriously consider visiting Nyungwe...and, once going there, don't just breeze in and out, as we saw some guests at our accommodation do.
combo	Stay at least two days to enjoy some of the wonderful sights and experiences this area has to offer."
combo	I have never been so excited and thrilled as i was during my visit to nyungwe it was amazing and i took a One hour and a half tour which was really rewarding!!
combo	This was amazing experience for me!
combo	!
combo	The activities on offer are amazing and visiting this pristine wilderness is something that will stay with you forever.
combo	Our guides were friendly helpful and had a huge amount of knowledge to share.
combo	There were so many highlights and no lowlights.
combo	"Couldn't find this under accommodation, so I'm putting it here.
combo	We chose to stay here as it is the centre of Nyungwe where all the walks start from.
combo	Unfortunately it was bucketing down and pitch dark when we arrived!
combo	The hire tents are pitched on raised wooden platforms under canopies so do stay dry.
combo	However it is an extremely long walk down a rough trail from the car park and from the visitor centre to get to them.
combo	There is absolutely NO lighting whatsoever, so it's pitch dark and even with a torch it's a struggle at night.
combo	Meals are available in the cafe...back up at the top, so there's a steep hike involved to get your meals; again in the dark if it's for dinner.
combo	Lack of any external at all down by the tents means that getting out to the toilet and shower block is a hazardous experience as it involves going down more steps with no handrail.
combo	Taking children to the toilet in the dark and pouring rain was not great!
combo	The loos were clean, but as far as I could tell there were no functioning showers when we were there and no actual washrooms...only a cold tap outside.
combo	They light a fire for you in the evening in the firepit if you wish.
combo	I think you can cook on it if you want to!
combo	Meals in the cafe are basic but perfectly good.
combo	The tents are basic but roomy enough.
combo	The mattresses are 'adequate' but could be thicker!!!
combo	We re seasoned campers but simple things like better (or any!
combo	lighting and more functioning washrooms would be an an improvement.
combo	Not sure I'd stay there again.
combo	Be warned it's along drive from Nyungwe entrance to Uwinka."
combo	"Our primary goal in visiting the Nyungwe National Park was to see the chimpanzees and we were not disappointed.
combo	We set out at dawn with one of the park guides and he quickly led us to a place where we could observe a troop of about a dozen, including the alpha male and several females with babies.
combo	We could get fairly close and were about to get some good photographs.
combo	We were told by the guide that we were very fortunate - it sometimes takes hours to locate a troop and doing so can involve traversing some steep and difficult terrain.
combo	On the previous day we encountered the smaller mountain monkey - also fun to see.
combo	We really enjoyed this park, but be forewarned that animal sightings are not guaranteed- the animals are in the wild and do as they please."
combo	"There are several trails of varying lengths and level of difficulty.
combo	The descriptions and walking times given are realistic if you are fit.
combo	It is mandatory to have a forest guide with you at all times.
combo	We walked with Daniel, a park guide, who had a great experience of the forest and expertise in identifying the birds, as well as a good understanding of conservation, If you want an early start it is worth going to the ranger centre the day before to give your details and book in - this avoids queues early in the morning.
combo	You can also do an excellent walk with almost guarantee sightings of chimps - do not expect a ‘zoo view’ as they are likely to be high in the trees and moving around.
combo	Ground can be steep and slippery so best to wear decent hiking boots and accept the offer of a walking stick!
combo	Everyone who can afford the 20USD should hire a porter - whether you really need a small bag carried or not, as this is a direct way of ensuring that the local community benefits.
combo	The porters are local farmers who are in a cooperative, have some training in how to pull unfit tourists up steep slopes, and take it in turns so that they on average spend about one day a week as a porter.
combo	They are also the forests ambassadors in the local community and keep an eye out for poaching or tree cutting.
combo	Encourage the rest of your tour group to each hire a porter!"
combo	"We had a great time doing a canopy walk and one of the trails (3.5hrs, umuyove trail).
combo	Nice views and good experience of rainforest.
combo	Next time I would just do a longer hike as I found the canopy walk overpriced and it is a shame you cannot combine the canopy walk with another trail (I.e.
combo	you have to pay separately for both so $60 for canopy and $40 for “nature walk” despite the fact that the trail we did covered exactly the same route as canopy and trail was extended, it just didn’t include going onto the canopy which is fun but can be missed).
combo	If you don’t fancy too long of a walk and something different, then do a canopy :) A few tips: -if you are a hiker and would like a day-long hike (6 or 8 hr trail as per picture), then definitely arrive the day earlier as they start long hikes at 8 or 9am -arrive earlier to register and pay or book online ((we paid on the day) -You have to be accompanied by a guide for all the hikes and even though they advertise walks at particular times, if they have a guide available (applicable to shorter I.e.
combo	up to 3.5hr hikes only), then you don’t have to wait.
combo	-Not all hikes start from Uwinka Visitor Centre so allow enough time for registration and payment.
combo	Canopy and Umuyove trail start from Uwinka, I’m not sure about the others.
combo	-if you’d like value for money and fancy a hike, then choose one of the trails (nature walks) instead of a canopy walk -bring at least trainers but walking boots preferably if you do a longer trail as there is a lot of downhill and uphill (and if it rains, then it is very slippery and muddy).
combo	And remember a raincoat :) -we heard that weekends are busy with locals so if you do a canopy, it might be worth pre booking online -We stayed in Kitabi EcoCenter which was 30minutes away from Uwinka Visitor Centre, conveniently located with spectacular view and good customer service (bucket showers though!).
combo	I think cheaper alternative was KCCEM guesthouse.Great"
combo	"We went to walk the canopy.
combo	Frankly to high for me but my wife and son loved it.
combo	The Park is so beautiful with some incredible views, and an excellent guide."
combo	"The canopy trail was a little short, so I added on another trail that is adjacent to it and had a nice hike overall, around 2.5-3 hours total.
combo	Being afraid of heights I wasn't sure about the canopy walk, but it ended up being pretty cool and was very secure.
combo	The Umoyove trail was a pretty easy hike overall, but you go down the first half and up the second half.
combo	So, by the end it can be pretty tiring.
combo	But, you get to see a small waterfall at the midway point, and maybe eat some fresh blackberries along the trail too.
combo	I really got lucky and was able to view 3 different types of monkeys all on the hike, which the guide hadn't ever seen so many on a single hike.
combo	He said on many hikes that you may not see any, or are lucky to see a single family.
combo	So, be sure to keep your eyes open, listen for branches cracking in the distance and bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a 50x zoom to get those who are in the distance.
combo	You will also see gigantic redwoods with roots as thick as your body along the second trail, a few flowers but not many birds given how tall the trees are on the trail.
combo	Note: ALL TOURS require a park ranger so you can't just show up and go on your own, you have to hire a paid ranger to escort you along the trails."
combo	The Nyungwe Forest Canopy walk is not for the light headed!
combo	It was a lovely adrenaline filled walk from canopy to canopy with a breath taking view of the forest.
combo	"This National Park is incredible, views of green mountains as far as the eye can see.
combo	Hiking tracks are well signed and the park is clean with great facilities."
combo	"We only stayed for only one night in the end as we were sadly called away by family illness.
combo	As it took us about 5 hours with stops to drive from Kigali, this was a bit of a shame.
combo	However we did do the canopy walk which was scary but exciting for our grandchildren but not difficult to get to (if you discount the 200m climb back up).
combo	Our guide Pascal was very informative and helpful to the children.
combo	There would only have been one other walk suitable for the children anyway.
combo	Although most of the walks are not far it is quite slow walking through the forest.
combo	We saw blue monkeys and colobus monkeys out by the road.
combo	If you want bird life you need to walk further into the forest and not have noisy children with you!
combo	We stayed at Uwinka campsite (basic!
combo	as it is the centre for most of the walks.
combo	it's about another 45 mins from the park entrance to here.
combo	Would have liked to go up to Gisakura to see the tea estate and walk to Nile source but trip was cut short.
combo	Met some people who said the guest house here is very good.
combo	Take hiking boots and good waterproofs.
combo	It was unbelievably wet when we were there.
combo	it's not called the rainforest for nothing Advice about paying for a trip if you haven't paid in advance.
combo	The process is extraordinarily long, so get there in plenty of time (opens 9.00am)!
combo	Passports are needed and if you are a Rwandan resident verification takes twice as long!
combo	Everything has to be photographed, verified and entered on to their system...sometimes twice!
combo	They use a laptop but the connection is extremely slow....the wifi comes and goes!
combo	You can ONLY pay by card...no cash and bad luck if your card needs a OTP and your mobile doesn't work here!!!
combo	After all that they have to fill in all the details on a paper sheet....but hey, this is Africa!"
combo	Chimpanzee trekking.
combo	Colobus monkeys.
combo	Mountain monkeys.
combo	Waterfall hiking.
combo	This forest has it all ... so be sure to do it all!
combo	Truly a spot to be treasured on this planet!
combo	"What a beautiful forest!
combo	It's about 4 hours south of Kigali (and you can get there by renting a car, hiring a private driver, or taking an assortment of cheap buses), and there are many options for hiking in nature.
combo	The prices vary, depending on if you're a citizen, a resident, or a non-resident.
combo	The guided nature walk prices are reasonable, at $40/non-resident, $30/resident, and you can go on various trails throughout the day.
combo	There are a lot of options here.
combo	For example, there's a 10km hike that takes you to four waterfalls, and there are other hikes that are only a few kilometers.
combo	For the chimp trek ($100 for non-residents, $60 for residents), it's highly advised to book ahead of time.
combo	For the nature walks, though, you can show up the morning of (around 8:30 or 8:45, as the walks depart at 9am) and book on the spot.
combo	Most nature walks, as well as the canopy tour, depart from the Uwinka Office, which is about 40 minutes' drive from Kitabi.
combo	At $60/non-resident, $50/resident, I think the canopy walk is overpriced.
combo	That said, I've also been lucky enough to do zip lines and the like in other countries, so this wasn't a particularly ""brand new"" or ""once in a lifetime"" experience.
combo	Still, it was fun, and it offered a great vantage point to see the canopy and to see DRC in the not-too-far distance.
combo	If you're interested in seeing monkeys (we saw many L'hoest monkeys on the side of the road while driving to the headquarters, and we saw a few blue monkeys while on our walk), or if you just like getting out in nature, breathing in the fresh air, and getting a little exercise, I highly recommend going to Nyungwe and booking at least a nature walk."
combo	"I visited with a few of my friends to do the canopy walk.
combo	Although the walk itself was a little scary it was a good experience.
combo	Our guide, Kristoff, was very knowledgeable and pointed out several animals on out hike.
combo	Very glad we were able to visit the park"
combo	"I planned to visit nyungwe primarily to see chimps but i found the info a bit confusing.
combo	I hired a driver for 3 days to take me from kigali to gisakura, to kitabi, back to kigali.
combo	His name is Jean-luc and he was excellent and helped with info and plans and phoning hotels.
combo	I would definitely recommend him for trips in that and other areas (rushemajeanluc@gmail.com).
combo	Although i am sure it is possible to do trips in nyungwe using public transport, I think it would be extremely tricky.
combo	The main issue being that guides don't have their own transport so they rely on coming in your vehicle to the start points of the trips.
combo	We arrived in gisakura at around 2pm, the park reception centre is about 2 mins drive East of the village.
combo	There we booked a Colobus monkey trip for 3pm.
combo	The park seems to prefer payment by card, as I think they use the irembo website to book trips.
combo	The Colobus monkeys are very close to reception and it is probably possible to see them for free but the payment for trips does help the conservation of the forest so it seems worthwhile.
combo	My guide, bosco, and the trackers were great, I was the only person on this tour, it wasn't rushed and we saw tonnes of monkeys.
combo	I stayed overnight in gisakura.
combo	The chimp trek starts at an eye watering 5am at gisakura park reception.
combo	I booked my permit online at irembo, although i think they have a 15 permit allowance and there were only 8 on my tour so booking ahead may not always be necessary.
combo	The start of the chimp trek was a 1.5 hours drive West, so staying overnight at uwinkwa or kitabi is not advised.
combo	The trek was quite challenging as the chimps were on the move but we saw quite a few so was definitely worthwhile.
combo	We walked for about 3 hours, getting back by about 11.
combo	After this we drove along the forest road to kitabi, the road is great and we saw monkeys and a chimp along the way.
combo	To sum up, booking ahead on the irembo website is the safest thing to do if you are worried that trips may be full (realistically only the chimp trek will get full) and getting a driver or hiring a car and driving yourself.
combo	The forest is great and so are the staff."
combo	"We drove around and went to the canopy walk.
combo	which was great but payment process was long, need to have a PoS machine and stock the 'canteen' better for the diverse range of people who visit."
combo	"I've been here for monkey trekking and the canopy walk.
combo	The canopy walk does have a bit of a hike to it, so be prepared!
combo	But it's totally worth it.
combo	Try to be the first one!
combo	your photos will be much better without the other people in it"
combo	"I've just spent 5 nights there (at Giskura Guest House), walking the trails with a guide, birding, seeing a chameleon, having fantastic views of a range of monkey species (including the Uwinka megatroop of Angola Colobus), taking in the stunning scenery, admiring the ferns, lichens, strange plants and beautiful views.
combo	I wish I could've been there for longer.
combo	I would love to go back.
combo	The place is just exceptional, and being very well cared for, from the Rwandan army soldiers on fire watch on vantage points along the trunk road through the park, through to the National Park staff.
combo	Some of the trails could do with a bit of maintenance of hand rails or steps, but I had no problems getting around.
combo	The diversity of the habitat and frequent steep slopes meant I could frequently see into the canopy of trees without looking up, or see the skies above, so - for birding at least - I didn't feel I needed to walk the Canopy Walkway, but I think that does a great job in getting people out into the forest.
combo	I guess not everyone knows what to do with themselves in a vast, primal and unique forest.
combo	I went chimp tracking too - that was a superb experience.
combo	You'll need to pay for permits to visit the forest, but you'll be investing in nature conservation and sustainable development in this great country.
combo	It is hard to get around the park without a vehicle (although motos would take you in, I'm sure).
combo	In a word - go!"
combo	"Nyungwe national park is an amazing example of highland rainforest and home to numerous primates including Chimpanzees, L'Hoest's Monkey, Blue Monkey, Golden Monkey and Colobus Monkey.
combo	There are also numerous birds and over 75 types of mammals.
combo	The hiking is great with several options for long (several day) or short (just a few hours) hikes.
combo	There is also a very cool suspension walking bridge, the ""canopy walk"" suspended above the rainforest canopy which is great fun (but not for the faint of heart!)"
combo	"I am always feel happy to visit Nyungwe National Park.
combo	This is one of the oldest rain forest in Africa.
combo	This time, I have enjoyed walking on canopy walk with better view of the forest.
combo	I inhaled good pure oxygen as they are least air pollutants.
combo	They will offer you a guide to tour your around the forest as you can not do it alone.
combo	They had nice restaurant at the reception for African food, European food and Asian food.
combo	The plate is on affordable price (3000 Frw in 2018).
combo	you can have access to internet if you like to post your photo or to show your friends where you are.
combo	You will need to start visiting in the morning if you will be coming back to Kigali where you can visit one of the museum in the southern province (King's Palace in Nyanza or Ethnographic museum in Huye).
combo	I was enjoyed so much"
combo	"Nyungwe Forest became a national park in 2005.
combo	Nyungwe Forest National Park lies in the southwestern corner of Rwanda.
combo	The nearest town is Cyangugu, 54 km away at the shore of the beautiful Lake Kivu.
combo	Nyungwe Forest is an acclaimed chimpanzee trekking destination, but it’s also home to East Africa’s only Canopy Walkway.
combo	Take another perspective into the untouched rainforest canopy, walking upon the wildlife and centuries old treetops.
combo	And what a thrill it is!
combo	Add to that the adrenaline kick of the 60 meters high canopy walkway, and well – you have the adventure to remember!
combo	This forest also covers an area of over 1000 sq kilometers.
combo	You can also find over 300 different bird species, many butterflies, orchids, 75 mammal species including the 13 primates, and there have also been the sightings of the golden monkeys.
combo	After arriving in the Nyungwe Forest, your mind automatically deletes the wonderfully constructed road and other modern beautiful infrastructure of Rwanda and takes back into time of the real untouched Africa.
combo	The park rangers are well trained and well versed to guide you through the whole of trekking.
combo	The park has many gates, and different trekkings start from different gates.
combo	The famous 'Canopy Walk' is from the entrance that is 30 minutes further ahead from the 1st gate, after the town.
combo	The nature walk + bird watching and tea plantations are from the 1st gate, which is hardly 3-4 minutes drive from 'Nyungwe Top View Hotel'.
combo	You often come across monkeys and a lot of butterflies, birds in the forest.
combo	'Canopy Walk' is There are decent toilets at the reception of each gate.
combo	Better use toilets before trekking.
combo	Also use good trekking shoes as the trekking area is sometimes very slippery and dangerously narrow."
combo	"such a beautiful forest with so many nice birds, butterflies and monkeys....Canopy walk is too expensive: 60 USD and you will have to pay 40 USD additionally for going for a walk/hike....better go for 2 hikes as the second one is for free (stand: June 2018)"
combo	"We really loved all about the park, we have seen multiple sides of the park with different activities.
combo	All worth while, friendly and qualified guides.
combo	beautiful scenery"
combo	"Let me start by saying that I've been all over East African and this is one of the most impressive forests I've seen in the WORLD.
combo	Sadly, the country's troubled past finished off the elephants and gorillas, but the park still has 13 species of primates (according to their site) and a few birds that are not reliable anywhere else in the world.
combo	The park appears to be very well managed and infrastructure is excellent (4x4 not required).
combo	We had a few issues with communication with the guides which I will explain.
combo	We got a rental car (a saloon car which was fine) in Kigali because we wanted to make sure we limited time spent screwing around in the morning.
combo	We did meet two French travelers who did their visit by bus (and opportunistic hitchhiking) and they were able to pull it off so you by no means need a car, we just wanted convenience (40 USD/d from Kigali Car Rentals).
combo	Your guest house can also arrange motorbikes for you.
combo	Our visit was highlighted by strange interactions with park staff.
combo	At first, it was really straightforward - we agreed on what fees we were to pay, the meeting place for a guide and then we were set.
combo	A guide is required to access any trail and the rates were actually not bad - 100 USD for three days including guiding (but not transportation).
combo	I'd reserved a guy called Claver for two days, and a guy called Claude for the two days that Claver was not available (got their cell numbers from the internet).
combo	Unfortunately, it all fell apart because Claver got sick so we had to improvise.
combo	The first two days with Claude were BRILLIANT.
combo	He got us the Lagden's Bushshrike on Karimanzovou trail and the Kivu Ground Thrush on the Isumo waterfall trail - two superb ticks.
combo	For the remaining 4 days, we had to get other guides who proved to be almost useless.
combo	First there was a guy called Daniel, who we were told was ""a good birder.""
combo	However, he refused to take us on a proper trail and took us instead along the main park road, where he pointed out very common birds and even failed to know the calls of some common species (eg Mountain Illadopsis) which we wasted time trying to figure out.
combo	He then took us to a trail around a tea plantation which produced none of our targets.
combo	Apparently, he had a ""bad leg"" which prevented him from taking us on proper trails, but this was not communicated to us until well into the day.
combo	For the last 3 days, we requested a different guide.
combo	I had been warned by a friend to avoid a guide called Vedaste ""at all costs"" but we were forced to try our luck with him as he was the only other bird guide.
combo	To be fair, his knowledge of birds was decent but still failed to produce anything that we would not have found on our own.
combo	The first problem was that he didn't want to hike long distances (we wanted to hike the Bigugu trail to the summit of the park's highest point).
combo	We were told it was a distance of 14 km ""each way"" but in fact when we did it, it was 14 km round trip.
combo	Shouldn't the park staff know information about their trails?
combo	One person we called said we could arrange to camp up there, while another person said we could not.
combo	So park information differed depending on who you asked.
combo	All this discussion wasted time so in the end we did not camp, but that was ok.
combo	I think Vedasted just was too lazy or unfit to do the climb (credit to him for doing it).
combo	Another instance where communication was poor was when we first arrived and asked if we could camp in the park.
combo	The answer was no, we had to go to the village, and that the best place was called Keza guest house.
combo	We later found out that we had been lied to - that there is indeed camping available in the park (albeit prohibitively expensive) but that they wanted us to stay at Keza because one of the rangers there owns it.
combo	Another complaint was that Vedaste wanted to meet in the village (for birding) at 6:30 am - which is insane.
combo	We wanted 5:30 but had to compromise for 6:00.
combo	sunrise is 5:45 and it takes 20-30 minutes to drive to the trail).
combo	During the entire 3 days with Vedaste, his behaviour got shiftier and shiftier.
combo	He kept asking us odd questions and to see our permits and passports multiple times.
combo	It turned out he wanted my guide (who was from Kenya) to pay as well, even though it was agreed at reception that since he was my guide he would not have to pay.
combo	So strangely, we paid for my guide for the final two-days' worth but in cash and obtained no receipt.
combo	I was starting to make a scene about this when my guide had to take me aside and calm me down and explain that I better just pay the extra money to avoid further troubles (ie they could get us the pay for the whole 6 days for him - retroactively).
combo	So I paid and we finished our last day, adding only one new mediocre bird (Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo).
combo	We were keen to also hike the Rukuzi trail (as Dwarf Honeyguide had been seen there) but Vedaste more or less convinced us that Karamba was better.
combo	We later realized his real motive for dissuading us from Rukuzi was because that is the main trail where chimps are seen (if we see them on our own it will prevent us from potentially paying for the guided chimp trek).
combo	The takeaway here is that Nyungwe has only two good bird guides and their names are Claver and Claude.
combo	Make sure you get one of them!
combo	If you don't, be very insistent on what activities you want to do and don't let them influence your choice.
combo	We were very unlucky that Claver was ill, because he is world-renowned.
combo	Claude was top-class.
combo	The rest of the park staff has serious issues with communication which they need to resolve."
combo	"First off, I would like to mention that you do not absolutely need a car to get around at the park.
combo	It may be more convenient but not necessary.
combo	We had Joseph from Gisakura Guest House reserve motos for us for the whole day (15,000 rfr per moto) and they will basically wait for you the whole day.
combo	Just for a complete picture- we left from our guest house at 630 am.
combo	Dropped off at Karamba Trail for birding.
combo	Then they took us to Uwinka where we did canopy and two nature hikes (umuyove and buhoro).
combo	They then took us back to our stay around 4 pm.
combo	You may have to pay for another moto for your guide- this was our experience with the birding hike, not the other hikes though.
combo	PERMITS: We bought ours at the RDB office in Kigali because we could use our credit card.
combo	It's cash only once you reach Uwinka.
combo	Also, wanted to spread the word that the $40 nature hike gives you access to all the nature hikes for the whole day and you can do as many as you want.
combo	This was not made clear to us til we were already at the park.
combo	TO THE PARK: Many tour groups and even the people at the RDB office told us we needed a car to get there but you can take a bus which will only set you back for 6000rfr (from Kigali- Nyabugogo bus station you can take the Omega bus to Rusizi) Also, if you're going during rainy season, try to squeeze most of your hikes in the morning because it will likely rain in the afternoon.
combo	Bringing a long raincoat and rainpants would also be smart- you'll be glad you brought it because when it rains, it pours!"
combo	"We did the Canopy Hike.
combo	If you come during the rainy season (September - June), you will likely encounter muddy conditions.
combo	So dress appropriately.
combo	However, even if you forget something, the Park Office rents rain boots, rain jackets and rain pants.
combo	For the cost of the canopy hike, the Park provides wooden hiking poles, which I found very helpful because the trail is not only muddy but steep.
combo	The trail is lovely and we saw a family of blue monkeys and heard, but did not see, birds.
combo	The total hike is about 3 kms.
combo	The canopy part of the hike consists of 3 sections: a short section, the longest section, and a final short section.
combo	The canopy bridge sways a lot and of course is very high.
combo	Although I attempted to walk the canopy bridge and my guide was very encouraging, my acrophobia made me turn back.
combo	Instead, I walked along a trail on the ground and crossed a lovely stable bridge before meeting up with the rest of my group who all had successfully walked across the canopy bridge.
combo	At the beginning and end of the hike, there is a building with information about the flora and fauna of the park, as well as a tiny restaurant that prepares meals and sells snacks.
combo	I loved Nyungwe.
combo	On our way out of the park, we saw a troupe of colobus monkeys."
combo	Stunning and breathtaking Views!
combo	the air in the forest is quite good as well.
combo	The canopy walk is amazing it is not too much just the right amount of walking!
combo	"We didn't do this through a tour company and at first it was a little confusing on how to get permits.
combo	However, it is super easy once you know how.
combo	You can book and pay beforehand online at the Rwandan government Irembo website.
combo	There you can decide your activity, the most popular being the Chimp trek, canopy walk, Colobus monkeys trek and waterfall trek.
combo	Its much easier than the previous method of paying on arrival with cash or card machine (when internet can be intermittent).
combo	You will need a 4x4 car or a driver to get round to the different starter points.
combo	We did the Chimp trek, Canopy walk and waterfall trek.
combo	We recommend them all, they were all great.
combo	The guides were all great.
combo	The forest is beautiful, there are so many plant and animal species that are only found there and its an amazing experience just being amongst the nature there.
combo	Our favourite was the canopy walk, (for those who don't like heights it is quite a challenge).
combo	But is amazing views and definitely worth it.
combo	Its quite an easy trek and was really fun.
combo	You can do it at 8am or 3pm each day.
combo	The waterfall trek was more challenging, it is quite steep but zigzags down, and then up 1 hour there and then 1 hour back.
combo	But if you are used to hiking you should be fine.
combo	The Chimps was also very good, but we only saw two males as because of the season and lack of food the group of females and babies were further away searching for food.
combo	As we were with a group who could not do long treking we weren't able to trek too far so it was disappointing not to see more, but also amazing to see what we did.
combo	You leave at 5am and trek in the jungle not on the beaten path so it can be more difficult but as with out group the rangers will make sure its not too difficult for your ability.
combo	Watch out for the safari ants!
combo	On the way we saw lots of different species of fauna and flora, lots of monkeys, colobos as well.
combo	Definitely recommend!!"
combo	"My tour company had arranged for me to do the chimpanzee trek in the morning and the canopy walk in the afternoon.
combo	I found the chimpanzee trek very arduous, we were in the forest for about 4 hours.
combo	Unfortunately they were always moving around and the terrain was very steep and slippery.
combo	However the guides were excellent and very helpful.
combo	The main problem I found was that as one of the unfitted members of the group of 7, i was always lagging a bit behind and as soon as I arrived at the position where the chimps were, they had moved on.
combo	The photography problem was solved by the,guide who took my camera and got me some marvellous shots.
combo	I counted the experience as one of my achievements!
combo	Again I cannot praise the guide and porters too much for help they gave me.
combo	After only 45 minutes rest it was off to the canopy walk, quite an easy pathway down but you have got to come back the same way!
combo	The guide who was the brother of the chimp guide provided a very interesting commentary and the animal life and plant life.
combo	The canopy walk is a marvellous feat of engineering and.a real exciting experience.
combo	There was only 2 of us at this time so it was easy to take photos selfies etc.
combo	I would imagine with a large group there may be waiting around as only a certain number of people are allowed on the walkway at a time."
combo	"The government of Rwanda is dedicated to protecting its natural resources and wildlife, which is noteworthy given the small size of the country (same as Albania or the U.S. state of Maryland).
combo	Hiking is accomplished with well-trained guides.
combo	We trekked chimpanzees, and it was a very memorable experience.
combo	Remember to wear the correct clothing - hiking gear, to include gloves.
combo	This is the Land of 1000 Hills!"
combo	"this is a natural stunning forest and unique the trees are ancient and the honey from this forest is magnificient, walk the canopy there camp at Uwinka"
combo	"Nyungwe is a contradiction for me.
combo	I fully endorse other reviewers comments that this a stunningly beautiful forest, it truly is, but it suffers due to the lack of accommodation and resources in the general area.
combo	We loved the forest and the guides are friendly and knowledgable, we would come again with other birding friends but would be way more prepared.
combo	Notes for would be visitors.
combo	1.
combo	Arrive the day before you want to trek, bird, or other...go the RDB office at Uwinka there and pay the day before if you haven’t paid beforehand in Kigali.
combo	We paid on the day, big mistake this took way too long, the RDB officer did not accept cash that day, he did have Credit card facilities though so no real drama once he got the internet going.
combo	Paying the day before means you can skip most of the hoohaa and get on with your activity but be advised that you will most likely have to go there (Uwinka) for your guide to sign in and get his gear.
combo	2.
combo	Bring your Rwanda ID card if you are a foreign resident, otherwise they will charge you as a foreign visitor even if you have the resident visa in your passport - NOT happy RDB !
combo	3.
combo	Note - you pay full price for primate trekking, Canopy walk not matter how long you stay in the park, but then if you stayed an extra day for birding, your third day would be half price for birding or trekking.
combo	4.
combo	We did birding as it a passion of ours, we saw 21 types of birds many of them endemic to the area which was fantastic, and this lets you walk the trails experience the forest, see birds, mammals of all types and generally be enthralled the magic of the Nyungwe.
combo	5.
combo	IMPORTANT NOTES 6.
combo	Pay the day before... see note 1 7.
combo	The drive to Nyungwe is quite arduous highly recommend doing it in daylight, take your time and enjoy the scenery on the way.
combo	We had many truck convoys to pass and it did take 4+ hours from Kigali.
combo	There are also plenty of police on the road with speed cameras, so obey the speed limits.
combo	8.
combo	Be prepared.....bring your drinks, water, food from Kigali or get it in Butare on the way to Nyungwe.
combo	The small cafe at Uwinka has coffee, water, soft drinks, potato chips but that’s about it.
combo	They serve breakfast and lunch- we had lunch and it was good, very basic but good.
combo	9.
combo	Accommodations options in the area are shockingly limited for a National Park.
combo	Accom ranges from 1000+ USD a night ( seriously?
combo	to $30 USD for camping.
combo	This forest is roughly averaging 2000M altitude so temperature for camping is considered cool.
combo	The local guest houses are spartan but close to the park.
combo	There is Cyangugu which is a good 45 minutes drive in the dark from Uwinka.
combo	I am not going to mention names but do your research, come prepared.
combo	Bring everything and maybe the kitchen sink too if your going basic!."
combo	"Filled with stunning natural beauty, everyone should visit Nyungwe to see the chimps, walk the canopy, camp at Uwinka.
combo	This is one of our all-time favorite places."
combo	"This is a great natural forest, very beautiful and unique.
combo	The trees are ancient and the honey from this forest is magnificent!
combo	I went (on separate days) to see the Chimpanzees and the Colobus Monkeys.
combo	Both are highly recommended, but I will mention that the Colobus Monkeys were a lot more active and entertaining.
combo	Just adorable!
combo	Nyungwe Forest National Park is widely available to tourism…there are so many amazing things to do here so don't miss it."
combo	"It took most of the day to drive to Nyungwe from Kigali, which wasnt a great start.
combo	However, the forest is huge and beautiful and it was worth effort to get there.
combo	There are lots of mountain monkeys and Colobus monkeys.
combo	The highlight however was the chimpanzee trek."
combo	"I visited this park in May 2017.
combo	I found it very difficult to plan my trip in advance because information about the park was hard to find online.
combo	We ended up going to the Rwanda Development Board (RBD) office in Kigali in advance to ask about permits and reservations.
combo	I'm glad I was already in Kigali when planning this trip, otherwise I'm not sure what we would have done!
combo	I'm sharing here pictures of the brochures they gave us, in the hopes that this will help others better plan their own trips!
combo	We did the waterfall hike and the canopy walkway one day, and chimpanzee tracking a second day.
combo	The waterfall hike was beautiful, but took several hours.
combo	Our guide stopped frequently to show us local plants which was interesting, but did make the walk longer.
combo	The canopy walk was relatively short, but our group was quite large so it was slow-going to get to/from the canopy.
combo	The canopy itself was cool, although a bit frightening when multiple people were on the bridge at once because of the shaking the bridge did every time someone moved!
combo	We had nice views from it, though, and saw monkeys below us in the treetops.
combo	For the chimpanzee tracking, we met our guides as well as another couple at the ranger station, and then drove the guides in our own cars to a forest entry point close to where the chimps were.
combo	I don't remember exactly how long it took to get there, but it was at least 30 minutes.
combo	The other couple in our group failed to bring water, snacks, and petrol so we all had to stop so they could get supplies for the day.
combo	Once we arrived at the entry point, we had to wait for the guides to make contact with the trackers in the forest.
combo	After approximately 30 minutes we were on our way into the forest and the guides took us directly to where the chimps were.
combo	We had great views of them, although it helped that we had binoculars, as they were quite high in the trees.
combo	We spent several hours watching them and our guide was very knowledgable and shared lots of information with us about chimps.
combo	After returning to our vehicles, the other couple in our group discovered their car would not start because the petrol they had purchased quickly was not the right kind so they got stuck.
combo	It is therefore recommended to fill up before this trip, and have an extra can on hand as well!
combo	One other recommendation is that we ended up purchasing our permits and paying for the guides/trails at ranger stations, and they do not accept US bills that are ripped, crumpled, ""too old,"" or defaced.
combo	I almost couldn't pay for my chimp trek because some of the bills were considered unfit, but I was lucky to borrow from my friend.
combo	Be sure to bring new and crisp USD with you!
combo	Finally, I would not recommend chimp tracking and trying to drive back to Kigali on the same day.
combo	We did so, because our group lingered over the chimps so we got a very late start on the drive back, and it was not great, as the drive is very long (approx 6 hours) and potentially dangerous in the dark."
combo	"Chimpanzee tracking: Fabulous but demanding treck off the beaten track.
combo	Well worth the effort.
combo	Tea plantation visit: Spent an hour walking around the fields with knowledgeable guide.
combo	Interesting.
combo	Waterfall hike: Enjoyable but few birds.
combo	Easy treck.
combo	For those sensitive to high altitude, bring necessary medication, it works wonders."
combo	Amazing walk in the jungle and on the canopy.
combo	Our guide 'Hope' was very good and informative.
combo	The walk down was very easy but I struggled going back.
combo	So a warning for any senior citizens wanting to tackle this trip.
combo	I managed to walk back on very steep hilly terrain very slowly and it was well worth it.
combo	I would do it again
combo	"The park is great if you have a car, tough if you don't (although heavy truck traffic on the main road is unpleasant).
combo	Guides are required for all hikes.
combo	If you love nature and especially if you're a birdwatcher, Claver Ntoyinkima was a fantastic guide - we've hiked all across the tropics and he was one of the friendliest, most patient, knowledgable and dedicated we've ever had.
combo	Email the RDB about getting in contact with him WELL in advance, as he tends to book up quickly.
combo	Platform camping at the uwinka center was great.
combo	Waking up in the forest was so much nicer than driving 30 minutes in the dawn to reach a trail head.
combo	They provide all the equipment you need, and the platform is covered in case of rain.
combo	If you see the black and white colobus group, it is a great experience (however don't get your hopes up - the group can be elusive).
combo	Chimping at Cyamudongo was very strenuous but the chimps gave us unbelievable looks in less than 90 minutes.
combo	Claver can arrange a trip to Cyamudongo."
combo	"I read some of the other reviews of this park before I sat down to write my own and felt that in some ways they misrepresented this beautiful park.
combo	I think to enjoy this place your expectations must be realistic.
combo	Another writer wrote of not seeing any birds, my husband and I are birders and with the assistance of our guide we located at least 10 new life species for us including 2 that were endemic to Rwanda, so in my opinion you are going to get out of this park what you are willing to put into your visit.
combo	We went on the chimpanzee trek.
combo	It was arduous.
combo	The chimps were up in the trees and not easy to see.
combo	But the opportunity to trek in this dense forest, to see these animals living as they were born to do and not presented for our convenience was thrilling to me.
combo	We also took the trek to the canopy walk.
combo	This is a guided walk and along the way we learned about the local plants, saw mountain monkey, and a francolin and made friends with the other 2 ""chickens"" in our group who didn't like the swaying of the rope bridge!
combo	A good afternoon in my book!"
combo	"The equatorial forest is nice but has many twists and turns to get there.
combo	Beautiful tea plantation along the way.
combo	Saw some black monkey on the way, which was a treat!
combo	Compared to the forest we used to travel through frequently in Southeast Asia, the Nyungwe National Forest is slightly more lush but may not be worth it based on my past experiences.
combo	Could be just fine for those who have not experienced tropical forest."
combo	"If you have your own car, go!
combo	If not, think twice.
combo	Even though the park is huge, there's only two access points (Gisakura and Uwinka) and they're quite close to each other, which is hard to comprehend, since there would be many other towns scattered around the park.
combo	Permits are cheap.
combo	They make their money in a doubtful manner through transports that are required from your hotel to the starting points of the treks.
combo	They'll charge officially at the visitor center between 120 and 150 dollars US just for the driver, which is, considering purchasing power, absolutely insane.
combo	We managed to hassle it down to 80 which is still a royal salary in Rwanda when earned in a day.
combo	We would have loved to stay longer than a day and to see more than the chimps, but it hurts giving away so much money to one or the regional, powerful men without getting a receipt... you see where it's going."
combo	"When we got our frequent flier ticket, the only dates of return available required we spend an extra 3 days in Rwanda, so our agent sent us through Butare and Nyungwe National Park.
combo	This is a huge park, but features a walk with lots of colobus monkeys which takes about an hour.
combo	Following that, there is only the Nyungwe Park.
combo	We drove to the Uwinka Overlook ranger station and hired a ranger for the 2 hours trail to the hanging bridges which was supposed to feature birds and monkeys.
combo	Nary a bird or a monkey appeared.
combo	Although he hike is rated ""easy"" it was far from easy.
combo	In fact, I would rate it 3-4+ difficult out of 5.
combo	A very steep trail both up and down, with steep steps.
combo	The only feature as the three hanging bridges.
combo	We had done the hanging bridge bit many times in Costa Rica so this was boring.
combo	We returned exhausted, and then drove to Kigali.. We wish we had never wasted our time there.
combo	It's worth, at the most, a half day for the colobus monkey trail."
combo	"My wife and I were part of the Primates tour, and tracked golden and colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.
combo	Each one was a special and memorable experience.
combo	A must visit when in Rwanda."
combo	"We took the 6 mile waterfall hike.
combo	Great guide, great scenery,great weather.
combo	Make sure to arrange transportation to and from the area before you go.
combo	We had to wait for a bus for over an hour after our hike."
combo	"Even as a basic budget traveller you can take a bus from Kigali (Nyabugogo) to Rusizi and ask them to stop for the guesthouse.
combo	From there a small walk to the office and you can plan trekking, canopy, etc..."
combo	"We spent the evening in Huye before taking a leisurely self drive to Nyungwe forest, the journey passes through picturesque rural villages before reaching the Eastern boundary of the forest.
combo	The forest itself is beautiful and we did see several L'Hoest monkeys by the side of the road whilst driving through the park.
combo	There are 3 reception centres Kitabi, Unwinka and Gisakura covering the 50km road which bisects the forest, each offering different trails, all treks are accompanied by an obligatory guide and depart at fixed times.
combo	Please note that the Unwinka only accept cash, Gisakura accepts cards and cash.
combo	Although the Unwinka centre appears new, sadly the high cost of trails does not translate into good facilities at the reception area.
combo	The toilets were in a poor and dirty condition with no running water, one toilet each for men and women and outside urinals for men.
combo	The cafe offered only snacks of crisps or bread and a limited selection of hot food, but we were advised this would take 30 minutes to prepare.
combo	At Unwika we purchased permits $40 per person for the 1pm Umoyove trail, a 3.6km, 3.5 hour guided trail passing large mahogany trees, tree ferns and a waterfall.
combo	We were accompanied by a third hiker who was undertaking the combined Umuyove trek $40 and the Igishigishigi trail/Canopy walk view $60, total cost $100, this is supposed to be a 2.4km walk over 90 minutes.
combo	We were accompanied by two guides and expected the group to split at some stage, but to our surprise the Igishigishigi trail covers the same ground as the Umuyove trail for one hour sharing the same start and return route, with just an additional 5-10 minutes crossing on the canopy walk itself.
combo	We followed our fellow walker for this short section on the ground as he completed the canopy walk.
combo	The centre does not offer a discount for combined trails.
combo	In terms of our Umuyove walk, the dense nature of the forest means that for the most part you see very little until you reach the occasional clearing where there are good views.
combo	Generally the walk is quite repetitive, unfortunately we saw no primates during the trek and whilst we are pleased to have completed the walk, it only took just over 3 hours and it did not encourage us to complete further trails departing from Unwinka.
combo	The canopy walk is available as a standalone trek $60 at 8am, 10am, 1pm and 3pm, both the 1pm and 3pm groups that we saw contained large 1numbers which will inevitably restrict the time available to spend on the canopy walk.
combo	Two days later we visited Gisakura reception to purchase permits to see Angolan Colobus monkeys in a forest patch situated next to Gisakura Guesthouse, $60 per person starting at 8am, 10am, 1pm and 3pm.
combo	Note the reception centre has very recently moved from the outskirts of the village to the edge of the National Park Forest, it is currently quite badly signposted.
combo	Here there are clean toilets but no food or drink is available.
combo	It is a short 5 minute drive back to the Guesthouse which marks the start of a short trail.
combo	We walked in total no more than 100m into the forest where a group of around 12 Colobus monkeys were resting close to the path.
combo	We were there around 1 hour but we were slightly disappointed that our guide did not take us deeper into the forest to spot other monkeys and birdlife.
combo	The only other monkey we saw was a Mona monkey high up in the trees.
combo	In terms of our overall thoughts, the costs are very high for the quality of trails on offer.
combo	Although we are pleased to have had the experience, there’s are very few concessions for the independent tourist to encourage greater numbers and visiting without your own transport is very difficult."
combo	"It s a must when you visit Rwanda to go to Nyungwe forest.
combo	Place is unique,guides are professionnals... Canopy walkway top attraction Monkeys Hiking... Place to be and nit expensive."
combo	"We hiked the canopy walk and the chimpanzee trek.
combo	We are both age 63 and in good shape.
combo	Both hikes are challenging, especially the chimp trek.
combo	Both hikes are ;initially downhill and then, obviously, uphill when you are coming back.
combo	So going in is a challenge to the legs and coming out is a challenge to the lungs.
combo	Both hikes are well worth it.
combo	The canopy is safe, kind of a thrill actually with a wonderful view.
combo	As to the other hike, it's amazing to see chimps that have always lived in the wild - nothing like zoo chimps.
combo	Most of the time the chimps are up in the trees feeding.
combo	If they come down to the ground, they are hard to see due to the terrain and foliage.
combo	So it is not like the gorillas who sit there in plain view feeding near the ground.
combo	I would bring binoculars to see the chimps.
combo	When we drove to see the chimps, be advised the drive to the start of the hike took about 75 minutes, most of it on a very bumpy dirt road.
combo	The chimps move around, so it could be different for you.
combo	I think they've changes the meet up time in the morning.
combo	It used to be 4:30am - but when we did it they told us to be in the parking lot ready to go at 6am.
combo	Both hikes were on established trails.
combo	And we have to mention the forest itself - absolutely stunning.
combo	We were there in May and didn't really encounter many insects and the temperature was very comfortable."
combo	"Although pricey the campsite is beautifully located and allows you to spend a night in the pristine forest.
combo	Campers should be aware that there are no self catering facilities.
combo	The canteen serves good food at reasonable prices though.
combo	Rates are quoted in USD but can be paid in RW francs.
combo	I travelled here from Kigali as a solo female traveller and had no trouble getting there by public transport (3hours Kigali-Huye with Volcano Express bus service + 2 hours Huye-Uwinka with Alpha or Omega buses).
combo	For travellers considering visiting for a short trip from Kigali, I would highly recommend this as a 2 night trip from the city and would suggest a round route of 2 nights at Uwinka plus 1 or 2 nights at Kibuye on Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali.
combo	To get to Kibuye, take the bus from Uwinka to Buhinga and then change for the bus to Kibuye.
combo	If you leave before noon you should not need to reserve a seat, otherwise ask at Uwinka to call the bus company to reserve a seat."
combo	"Nyungwe is simply breathtaking.
combo	A large, ancient rainforest in the mountains brimming with different kind of primate species, among which chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.
combo	It's possible to track chimps, but be aware that this could entail a full day hike without guarantees (chimpanzees tends to move around fast in the forest)."
combo	"The waterfall hike had some gorgeous views as we hiked through the rainforest however we failed to see many wildlife.
combo	This was largely due to the heavy rain, which definitely put a damper on the trip.
combo	I am still very glad I did the hike though!
combo	You can easily get a bus from Huye/Kigali (operated by Omega or Alpha) and ask them to drop you off at Gisakura Visitor Centre.
combo	This is important as the driver did not stop for us and we had to moto our way to the Gisakura Guest House and then another 25 min walk to the visitor centre.
combo	$50 is steep for a trek through a rainforest but you have a guide, which doesn't seem all that necessary retrospectively.
combo	I wasn't a big fan of our guide, as he seemed more focused on making money and completing the hike in a short time.
combo	He spoke briefly about the plants and trees but he was soft spoken.
combo	The whole hike took about 3h (we didn't stop a lot).
combo	The bus back to Huye/Kigali is fairly easy to catch as long as you ask the guest house you're staying at to book you a spot on the returning bus.
combo	We did a day trip but many opt for a night's stay somewhere.
combo	There are other trips you can do like the Canopy walk (2h) and chimpanzee hikes but these are equally if not steeper cost-wise.
combo	I enjoyed the hike but I would have enjoyed more if the weather was better, seen more wildlife and less hidden costs along the way."
combo	We did the Canopy walk and the waterfall walk.
combo	Both were excellent hikes.
combo	Moderate with some tougher steps at the end of the waterfall hike.
combo	Be prepared for the price of $60/per person each hike.
combo	Some travelers arrived after long bus ride and not prepared for this price and only the waterfall location accepted credit cards.
combo	Dress for rain and wet.
combo	Also - waterfall start is far from the registration and they do not provide the transportation.
combo	"Going to Nyungwe Forest is quite expensive for someone on a budget like me.
combo	When I came to Rwanda, I wanted to see the gorillas, but quickly changed my mind after realising that it is $750 just for the permit.
combo	After knowing that, $90 to see the Chimpanzees doesn't sound so bad.
combo	I was still a little reluctant about paying around $130 for 2 hikes.
combo	But, it was totally worth it.
combo	It was one of the most tranquil & amazing places I have ever been.
combo	The chimpanzees will remain a highlight and an amazing memory for many years to come.
combo	I hope to one day go back and do it again.
combo	The guides were extremely knowledgeable and passionate about conservation.
combo	Also, it is just so inspirational to see a small developing country like Rwanda caring so much for their environment.
combo	When I learned what a great job they are doing with educating & including the surrounding communities, how large the forest is, how many people they employ, how much research is completed there, I realised that it was 100% worth every dollar I paid.
combo	When I went, I saw the chimps and we wanted to do the waterfall hike, but unfortunately we did not get there before 9am.
combo	We did another hike (not too sure of the name, but it went from Uwinkwa centre and it starts with an ""I"") for $40 that was a bit too short.
combo	They said it would take 3 hours, but we were back in an hour and a half.
combo	I have some tips however: 1.
combo	If you want to see the chimpanzees, you need to book, because they only take 8 people per day.
combo	2.
combo	The number on Google is wrong - contact Julius Caesar (not kidding) on +250788317027 to secure your booking.
combo	3.
combo	The chimpanzee hike leaves at 5am.
combo	4.
combo	The waterfall hike leaves at 9am.
combo	5.
combo	The card machines are temperamental.
combo	You should definitely take cash with you to avoid panic.
combo	I definitely recommend this place, but I suggest you really do your homework before going.
combo	I booked us into Golden Monkey Hotel, which was much too far away and very noisy.
combo	It put quite a damper on the experience.
combo	I suggest you splash out and pay the extra bit for a decent guesthouse (or for camping) in the Forest."
combo	"Canopy walk was nice and relaxing, with some great views.
combo	I liked the canopy bits a lot.
combo	Went on a chimpanzee trek.
combo	This was tough going, with some routes down the side of the banks of rainforest, definitely not for the infirm or unfit!!
combo	Chimpanzees were very cool though, and well worth the hard work to get there.
combo	Also did a bird walk with a really knowledgable bird guide.
combo	This was a much more relaxing wander with many stops to locate the birds of which there were a lot."
combo	"1st day I saw Chimps and then went to a different area of the park to see Colobus Monkeys.
combo	Then went to another location to see Mona Monkey, Mountain Monkeys, Vervet and Baboons.
combo	Amazing amount of primates.
combo	The next day I did the Canopy and nature walk.
combo	So beautiful and peaceful."
combo	"We went on a chimp trek, and saw chimps --and monkeys and birds as well.
combo	Our guide was extremely helpful.
combo	Do book directly with Nyungwe though and confirm before you travel to the park.
combo	We booked with the Rwandan tourism bureau and somehow our reservation was lost.
combo	They were able to accommodate us, as we went during the rainy season.
combo	Treks leave around 6am and you must pay the day before."
combo	"Amongst the lusciously green and towering trees, appears a canopy walk 90 metres above the ground.
combo	Overcome any fears of heights or bridges you have - the midpoint of this canopy provides you with a view like no other."
combo	"Nature at its best.
combo	The biodiversty of the park is good for birding where sunbirds (blue-headed and double collared), ruwenzori turaco ,warbler and so on... On top of that the canopy walk"
combo	"A beautiful park with several hikes to choose from.
combo	We took the canopy walk where we could see above the tree tops.
combo	I am usually afraid of heights, but the bridge is very narrow and the rails are high, with netting, so I felt like I was closed in and very safe.
combo	We spotted many birds and blue monkeys.
combo	Our guide was knowledgeable and personable.
combo	We packed our lunch and ate it in the common area after our hike.
combo	Tea, coffee, and other beverages are available."
combo	"The hike to the waterfall was amazing.
combo	Fresh air, birds chirping, wind swooshing past the trees, oh how I wish to go back there again.
combo	The guide was quite knowledgeable and took us through different aspects of the forest.
combo	The waterfall trail is a must do if you are ever there.
combo	It is quite relaxing being hit by the falls drops of showers."
combo	"Really gorgeous views.
combo	Winding roads, lush green foliage, reminiscent of the smokey mountains in USA.Youo will see some monkeys and birds.
combo	Recommend the canopy walk.
combo	There are many hikes to take with a guide.
combo	Really worth a visit.
combo	When you see the surroundings you understand why Rwanda is called Land of a Thousand Hills."
combo	"One of the oldest rainforests in the world where you feel totally unstressed by other tourists, the park treks are well thought out and the guides so charming.
combo	The waterfall known as Drowner of Elephants was lovely, but we didn't see any of the thousands of birds and that was a disappointment but I guess we weren't up early enough.
combo	We saw only one monkey but apparently we weren't on the right hike.
combo	The canopy walk was impressive if you like to see Man's supremacy over nature but I thought it unnecessary, the forest is just magnificent without it.
combo	Needs at least three days to appreciate all it has to offer."
combo	"The park is beautiful with lots of activities that can be done.
combo	There are many hikes you can plan with a guide which are very affordable even for a few days.
combo	The canopy walk is a complete ripoff though and not worth the 60USD per person.
combo	It is a ver easy walk and there isn't really anything to see.
combo	We actually saw more (chimps and other monkeys) when we drove around then when we were doing the canopy walk.
combo	Also, thinking about a family with let's see two kids, this would cost them 240USD.. way out of proportion for Rwanda and for what you get."
combo	A gorgeous place to hike.
combo	If you're looking for jungle scenery you will not be disappointed.
combo	Tours are run on a scheduled basis... so see if you have any better luck getting in touch with someone at the park ahead of time to make sure you get there at a time that allows you to visit the trails you're interested in.
combo	"I too am used to walking for free or at least minimal fees.
combo	The $60 US for the canopy walk & the same price for the colobus monkeys seemed steep but this is likely the bottom up price for maintenance of a national park, rangers, guides etc.
combo	this is a country struggling to be strong & independent.
combo	In the west we can subsidize with other sources of income, Rwanda cannot.
combo	I did enjoy each activity although our group was so big it was difficult to hear the guide."
combo	"I spent 3 days in and around the Nyungwe Forest.
combo	Itbis an amazing place.
combo	A variety of different guided walks through the forest are offred at resonable prices.
combo	Majestic tall ferns, welcome trees, healing plants.
combo	Wonderful ancient forest 🌳 with knowledgeable people, nice climate in October."
combo	We did the canope with our 5 and 2 years old children.
combo	the 2 years old was carried in a back pack but the 5 walked nicely and really had fun.
combo	A really nice place to go ...
combo	The visit of the canopy is an intense adventure A real cool trip recommened to all including families with kids
combo	"This one of oldest rainforest in Africa.
combo	It is located in the South West of Rwanda.
combo	I t has the source of river Nile and Congo, It has different fauna including 13 species of primates like chimpanzees and beautiful birds.
combo	Also It has flora which mate it the best place to enjoy and have really good oxygen as there degree of air pollution seems to be zero.
combo	I has main mountains to walk and canopy walk.
combo	It is 4 - 5 hours of driven from Kigali or 2 hour from Huye (Butare).
combo	I really like this forest was my best place"
combo	"Nyungwe is very beautiful, and an extremely important bit of conservation in Rwanda's south west corner.
combo	We stayed at Uwinka, the campsite which has recently been done up with wooden platforms.
combo	The view across the forest is amazing from there.
combo	The guided walks from Uwinka were also brilliant - we saw so much, and were lucky enough to even see chimps one afternoon.
combo	Everest, our guide for two of our four walks was exceptional, and he talked to us about Rwanda and his life, not just the rainforest (which was also brililant).
combo	Anyone staying at Uwinka should have a fantastic time, provided they bear in mind: i) it's not cheap (camping but especially the walks); ii) you have to take all the money you need for it (inc. meals) in cash (dollars ok); iii) the guides are somewhat rigid in when the walks leave, where they go and what they show you; iv) you know that if you want to go to walks further afield they may require you to drive, including with one of the guides in your car; v) you are aware that meals are best pre-ordered as they are cooked from scratch and can take 90 minutes (they're very tasty though!).
combo	Anyone bearing all this in mind and realising it is a conservation zone - so it's conservation driven not consumer!
combo	will find they have a wonderful time.
combo	Hopefully the RDB will reflect on their overcomplicated pricing structure at some point, and also that they need to communicate a few more details out about Uwinka before you drive several hours to get there.
combo	An amazing place, with amazing people and wildlife though - I loved it!"
combo	Incredible location (especially the lowest spot with a good view on the forest)!!
combo	Staff is friendly and helpful.
combo	Biggest drawback is the ridiculously steep price tag (30 USD is you bring your own tent).
combo	This used to be 20 USD for residents (as mentioned by the Bradt guide) but this is no longer the case.
combo	"We walked the 3 hours trail to the Kamiranzovu waterfall with a specialized guide to talk us through the history of the Park.
combo	It was wonderful and not as hard as I thought it could be.
combo	Very quiet during the rainy season we did not see any other tourists!
combo	We also did the quick canopy walk which was very exciting !
combo	Although we did not see too many primates (again, its the rainy season) Highly recommend this area to visit!!"
combo	"Both of our activities started at the Park HQs.
combo	We hired a guide (think you must have a guide accompany you), and our morning hike was to see Angola Colobus monkeys.
combo	Trackers out ahead of us had found the large troop and it was just a matter of hiking 90 minutes downhill to get to them.
combo	Ended up seeing the colobus and mangabey monkeys at the same location - got to spent one hour with them.
combo	We did not go on the longer chimpanzee hike.
combo	And although they were not as close as the gorilla encounter, they probably came within 20 meters.
combo	The afternoon hike was to the suspension bridges.
combo	Again, much of the first half is downhill - and turns out a significant thunderstorm started just as we arrived at the bridges - so just a quick walk on them before heading back.
combo	The uphill treks for both walks took time but were manageable for our group (with plenty of rest stops).
combo	Also saw numerous L'Hoest monkeys along the very curvy roads (treacherous driving for lorries in pouring rain).
combo	One of our goals was to see some of the forest birds - and while we did want see some of the endemic birds along route, the truth is we heard more than we saw but did have some obscured sightings of Handsome Francolin, Black-billed Turaco, Mountain Oriole and sunbirds."
combo	"In June 2016, We went early in the morning to visit the canopy walk.
combo	5-6 hours from an early ride from Kigali, we arrived there at 10 am.
combo	The guides were very informative and knowledgeable.
combo	Amazing view above 80 meter trees and an amazing view of the flora and fauna.
combo	This canopy bridge was designed and built by Canadian Engineers and they did a great job.
combo	You will not regret your time here.
combo	This year I am planning to go back for the Waterfalls and should be as fun as last time."
combo	"While reservations are helpful, we (and the French family of four who showed up and joined us) were able to pay on the spot for one of the scheduled canopy tour.
combo	We had a helpful guide who knew and found lots of birds and other wildlife for us to view and photograph.
combo	The tour goes down a bunch of steps from the ranger station and then winds its way through a dirt path that continues downhill until you reach the canopy walk.
combo	The canopy consists of three separate parts, with the longest stretch in the middle.
combo	You are high above the forest floor and there is some swinging movement of the canopy but you are able to hold on to cables on both sides so most people should be able to complete the walk.
combo	While you get a great view over the mountain valley, there were only a few animals or birds that we saw while on the canopy, which surprised me.
combo	Once back on the dirt path, it takes a little extra effort to climb back up hill and then up the steps back to the ranger station.
combo	But worth it!!"
combo	"Great opportunity to walk in an actual rainforest.
combo	5/6 hour drive from Kigali on good roads.
combo	There is a variety of walks for different abilities and fitness levels, which is good.
combo	Quality of the guides is variable.
combo	Taking a guide was in my opinion above average in cost, but you had to use them - you can't go on your own, which is a shame.
combo	Worth visiting Murambi Genocide Memorial while you are in the area."
combo	"Nyungwe Rainforrest is certainly worthwhile a visit, although it is al long drive from Kigali (take at least 4 hours into account).
combo	Canopy walk is nice and allows to experience the atmosphere and smell of the rain forrest.
combo	Take some 1.5 hours into account with up's and down's.
combo	Doable, also for the less trained among us.
combo	There are several monkey tracks which are also nice, but rather costly with $ 90 per person.
combo	These also require some endurance and walking skills.
combo	The guides are knowledgeable and helpful."
combo	Spent one morning doing the chimp trek and it was amazing.
combo	We had also done the gorilla trek and it was fascinating to see the difference between the two.
combo	The chimps are truly in a jungle setting and the chimps move very fast so it is important to be flexible as you really never know where the trackers will locate the chimps or how long or far you will need to hike.
combo	We were lucky in that the group we were tracking crossed a small road so we were able to see and photograph clearly.
combo	It is hard in the thick jungle to get good photographs when the chimps are high in the trees.
combo	Our guide was great and we thoroughly enjoyed this.
combo	Highly recommend.
combo	"I am used to walking freely in most places I visit, so for my wife and I to pay $60 for a 90 minute walk where all saw were two monkeys disappearing into the trees, it was a bit steep.
combo	The forest is a wonderful environment, the trials are well maintained, and the routes make maximum use of the scenery and views.
combo	However, it would have been better to have been able to follow the trails ourselves, with signposts being put in place (as is normal in most walking trails).
combo	It was good to have a guide I suppose, but they dis not add too much to the experience, and the charges were completely out of proportion."
combo	"I can here on public transport.
combo	It is totally doable.
combo	I went on the canopy walk- which was ok, a little boring since all the ppl in my group just wanted to take pictures.
combo	I also did the chimpanzee trek which was amazing.
combo	You do need a vehicle to get to the chimp trail head, but you can rent a car locally.
combo	The guy at the office helped me find some others renting a car and I was able to chip in with the cost and join them.
combo	The chimps were worth it for sure.
combo	I just stayed 2 nights in the park.
combo	It was short but I was really happy that I went!!"
combo	"We took the bus from Nyambugogo bus station in Kigali, which is a short taxi ride from town.
combo	We went with bus company Impala, which was about 2,700RWF (US$3.30) per person, buses leave almost every hour of the day, we bought our tickets the day before and got the first two seats on the bus (a bit terrifying to sit in front).
combo	We paid extra to store our packs in the back of the bus so we didn't have to have them on our laps the whole ride, it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Nyungwe because the buses go from Kigali to Huye to the DRC border.
combo	We told the bus driver we wanted to get out at the Uwinka entrance to Nyungwe, he was unsure where it was, so I've attached a photo of the sign for the Uwinka entrance to show the bus driver, it is visible from the road.
combo	When we got there, it was a very short walk up some stairs to where the guides will sort you out with lodging & food.
combo	We arrived at 1pm and very hungry, so we ate at the only restaurant there.
combo	The food was really good, it is the only food available there.
combo	They had samosas for snacks, and a meal was only 3,000RWF, not including drinks.
combo	They had a lot of vegan options for us.
combo	On our last day, they ran out of bottled water, so people were having to buy apple juice to go on the hikes with, so I would bring some water with you in case.
combo	After lunch, it was too late to go on a hike, so we read the informational displays, which are very well done.
combo	We had our own tent, which we could put up for $30 a night per tent.
combo	Other people rented very nice tents there for quite cheap, and those tents came with mattresses and sleeping bags.
combo	The campsites are very nice, with raised platforms so you are off the ground, nice bathrooms, & Asieri (don't know how he spells it), the camp manager, starts a campfire every night to hang out around, and he will boil water so you can have a nice hot bath after a long day of hiking.
combo	We had a beautiful family of blue monkeys hanging out in the trees right outside our tent, they didn't seem interested in us but we kept our tent zipped up any time we weren't around anyway.
combo	The hike was lovely, we went with the popular 3.5 hour hike to a waterfall.
combo	Our guide Samson made sure we didn't get our hopes up for animals because the guides are not trackers, if you want trackers you need to go to the other entrance to Nyungwe.
combo	We still ended up seeing blue monkeys and colobus monkeys, and turaco birds, Samson was very good at listening for & spotting the animals.
combo	The hike took about 3 hours, and we were going slow.
combo	The people who went on the 6 hour hike finished in 4 hours, but they said they were going very fast.
combo	Asieri helped us to catch a bus going to Kisenyi on the road, we literally just flagged down a passing bus going the direction we needed.
combo	We had to stop at what Asieri called ""Junction"" and change buses there, but it went very smoothly, and we spent a few relaxing days by Lake Kivu.
combo	The bus we caught was from the company Omega Car, which was exactly the same as Impala."
combo	"Today we managed to visit Nyungwe National Forest and it's Amazing view!
combo	We have been here and we visited Canopy walk, chimpanzees, Monkeys it was good experience and we appreciated guiding services we did it just in one hour then on our way back we met 5 monkeys and it was nice to see how they pose for you to take them a picture!
combo	Wonderful Creates!!!!!!!!"
combo	"We did two short walks (with a child aged 4): one by the tea estate first watching monkeys and after that a beautiful walk in the forest.
combo	The guide was very friendly and although his English was not fluent, he did a great job guiding us around the forest and telling us about flora and fauna.
combo	We also saw beautiful birds on the walk.
combo	Our second walk was the canopy walk - a good walk that ends by the canopy walk.
combo	The canopy walk has breathtaking views over the forest - but not a place for people with fear of heights.
combo	Both walks were a bit expensive considering how short they were (around 60-70 US dollars per person - the child was free of charge) and in comparison to the longer walks.
combo	We drove all the way through the forest (from Gisakura to Huye) and met a lot of monkeys and there are some beautiful views of the forest along the way."
combo	"Stayed at Eagles Nest and also Gisakura Guest house and our group of 25 did chimp trekking and the canopy walk.
combo	Both stunning.
combo	Only snag was that the permits can be a bit of an administrative hassle, lots of chasing up if you are taking a large group as they made a few errors.
combo	Isaiah at Eagles Nest is the man to know, he sorted out our taxis and gave loads of extra help."
combo	We drove from Kigali to Nyungwe.
combo	It is a scenic journey.
combo	We loved the canopy though the swinging bit does not please everyone.
combo	"This the first is one of the oldest on the continent as it dates back from prior to the first glaciation.
combo	The treks offered there are a good opportunity to discover the forest and the Nile sources.
combo	Although the prices might be a bot overestimated (but as it is part of an effort to protect the natural heritage of Rwanda it can be understood).
combo	Yo will have a chance to see the blooming fauna and flora of the place and maybe a few monkeys if you are lucky!
combo	:) The guides are very professional, friendly and a good source of information.
combo	If you plan on doing chimpanzee tracking I suggest you do the booking well in advance as most tour operators are taking a lot of the available spots..."
combo	We did a number of activities in the park.
combo	The national park centre was excellent as was the guide they provided.
combo	A guide is required for each activity but not really necessary apart from chimpanzee trekking.
combo	However we didn't mind paying because the money goes to help Rwanda and provide employment and helps to protect the environment and wildlife
combo	"Went here with my teenage son and thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
combo	We had a private car that we drove from Kigali, so that made things easier.
combo	We stayed at the Emeraude hotel on Lake Kivu, which was lovely, and then we drove into the park for our adventures.
combo	The road from Kigali through the park is great, but all the side roads are not paved.... One day we did the waterfall walk and canopy walk with lunch at the forest lodge in between, which worked out well for timing.
combo	Paid for the walks in Kigali in advance, but this wasn't necessary.
combo	The waterfall walk was great--lots of up and down and a little slippery at the end, but oh so worth it!
combo	The jungle is amazing, lots of birds and butterflies (and a beautiful waterfall), with a bonus of monkeys in the trees at the end.
combo	The canopy walk is over very sturdy suspension bridges WAY up high over the jungle--incredible views!
combo	If you don't have a private car you can probably arrange a safari company to do this.
combo	On second day we went chimp trekking in the Cyamudongo section of the park.
combo	Do NOT take your private car!
combo	We hired a driver and a land cruiser (done at the Gisakura ranger post) and the $150 to do so was a bargain.
combo	Took an hour to drive 11km!
combo	Also, definitely get your permits in advance in Kigali.
combo	We were ""greeted"" by a big male running past our group then spent an hour watching and hearing the chimps all around us.
combo	It was certainly equal to gorilla trekking and the walking was far easier.
combo	We hired the porters ($10 each for all day), which keeps them employed and not poaching like some of them used to do.
combo	The benefit of going to this smaller part of the park is that the chimps are contained in a small area and you're very likely to see them.
combo	Overall a magical experience"
combo	"My family and I had quite a adventure here.
combo	Upon our arrival, we were greeted in the parking lot by a troop of baboons!
combo	The staff were doing their best to make sure that the humans and animals were safe and separate.
combo	That didn't stop these primates from relaxing in other areas.
combo	We enjoyed every moment!"
combo	"I did the Canopi Walkway, the 3.5 hours trail and the Waterfall trail.
combo	Amazing views, we saw lots of different plants, birds and animals.
combo	Great for hikes and long walks.
combo	However you have to pay a guide for each activities and it can be expensive (60 USD for the Canopi walk which is 2 hours but you spend like 5 mins on the bridge, 40 USD for trails and 50 USD for the waterfall - and these are not the most expensive activities).
combo	Some guides are absolutely great (especially Christian and David).
combo	We had another guide for the 3.5 h trail who barely spoke english and nothing else.
combo	We really enjoyed our time in the park though.
combo	Beautiful waterfalls :)."
combo	"We took the canopy walk and enjoyed it very much.
combo	There is a short but steep hike to the canopy, which is divided into 3 sections.
combo	The canopy itself swings, which I found disconcerting, but the views are certainly worth it.
combo	Once across, the walk back is again through the forest where we saw monkeys and beautiful African birds"
combo	A lot of the hikes / treks took longer than we thought they would.
combo	We had planned to do 2 per day but that wasn't possible.
combo	There are some shorter hikes/treks that you could do in the afternoon but I would plan an extra day or two here.
combo	The canopy walk & the hike to see the closer group of colobus monkeys can be done in the afternoon (there is also a troop of 500 colobus monkeys that takes half a day to hike to).
combo	We really wanted to do the waterfall hike - which is supposed to be wonderful but we ran out of time.
combo	The chimpanzee trekking is so/so in Nyungwe.
combo	It is much better in Kibale in Uganda.
combo	I would spend your time doing some of the other hikes instead.
combo	You need to be reasonably fit to do the longer hikes here.
combo	You cannot hike in the forest without a guide and the treks are a bit pricey.
combo	The different treks all run a very specific times during the day so make sure you find out the schedule ahead of time so you don't miss out.
combo	The fauna was great but apparently we were the first people in 4 years NOT to see the chimpanzees.
combo	We walked long distances.
combo	The guides were great.
combo	Recommend this park highly
combo	"This is a really lovely area of Rwanda with the contrast of tea plantations that you can walk around on your own with great views over Lake Kivu, and then the forest itself with guided walks."
combo	"The rain forest is breathtakingly beautiful!
combo	We did the waterfall hike for $50 USD per person.
combo	The hike us avout 3.5 hours.
combo	Hiking is one of the activities I do back home because it's cheap and fun.
combo	Spending $50 is a bit outrageous for a hike.
combo	Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and fun."
combo	"My partner and I spent two wonderful days in Nyungwe.
combo	We stayed at the Gisakura Guesthouse (basic accomodation but good and filling meals) and the manager Joseph went out of his way to help us explore the park in our budget (which was limited).
combo	We rented a car for the drive to Nyungwe and the scenery maybe 20 minutes before entering the park and then throughout is breath taking.
combo	So if you are on a car watch out for the rolling hills just before you enter the park because to me they were the most breathtaking Rwandan hills.
combo	Then you enter the park and it's amazingly beautiful, dense and wild.
combo	The fog that layers itself around the forest makes it look so mystical and pretty.
combo	We did the canopy hike and so glad we did it early in the morning because he fog made it all the more gorgeous.
combo	The guides are all government employees, highly trained and knowledgeable (they all must speak fluent English and French, and be university graduates) and are truly wonderful people.
combo	After the canopy hike (which we hitch hiked to) we took moto taxis back to the guesthouse (you can arrange for it from Joseph) and it was a fun ride back and another great way to experience this place.
combo	After a quick lunch we walked/took a moto taxi to do the waterfall hike.
combo	We paid for the hike at a visitor center close to the hotel and then moto taxi to another spot to start the hike.
combo	The hike starts and finishes at the Nyungwe Forest Lodge (the premier accommodation in the park).
combo	The waterfall hike was superb.
combo	It rained for the first 1 hour of the hike which made the forest even more beautiful I thought.
combo	The waterfall itself was amazing and I think it's probably the closest I have been to a huge waterfall.
combo	The area around it is worth taking a million photos.
combo	The hike though is moderate-difficult depending on how comfortable you are with wet rocks and it takes around 4 hours both ways.
combo	But totally worth it!
combo	Since this hike ends at the Lodge we decided to treat ourself to a fancy dinner there which was so good.
combo	And the staff made us feel so comfortable too (hot tea to warm ourselves and drinks).
combo	We then had the staff call us a moto taxi after dinner to take us back to the guest house.
combo	The ride was short 10 minutes but slightly scary as i was pitch black and it was just our moto taxis on the road.
combo	We became friends with the moto taxi drivers as it was the same two guys and they were really flexible about waiting for us to take us to/from the hikes.
combo	The next morning Joseph reserved two seats for us to take the local bus back to Kigali and the bus stops right outside the guest house (on Joseph's request) so it's super convenient and cheap!!
combo	We will go to the Virungas today for the gorilla trek that we will do tomorrow and I know people just travel to Rwanda as an aside or just to see the gorillas but Nyungwe is a place that you shouldn't miss.
combo	And Rwanda in general too...such a wonderful country with so much to do, see and experience."
combo	"We were picked up from the airport by a driver and tour guide from Dac Tours and Travels.The drive despite being long was enjoyable and informative.The trek was good exercise for my boyfriend and I.We got in touch with nature,we bonded on a whole new level and the scenery was amazing.The weather of course is not what we experience back home but all in all it was worth it.We will for sure come back again"
combo	Went here with new friends a day after my arrival in Rwanda.
combo	We hired a car and driver to travel the 5.5 hours from Kigali.
combo	It was a new experience for me where we had to pay for each hike but it was very worth it.
combo	They ranged from 50-90 USD.
combo	Waterfall hike- 50 USD.
combo	Nice 1.5 hour hike in with pretty good trail.
combo	The waterfall was impressive.
combo	It's wants too high or too big but instead of landing in a pool it hit a rock slab that threw the entire power of the stream back into the air.
combo	It was one of the more impressive waterfalls I've seen.
combo	Colobus monkeys 60USD.
combo	They told us 100% chance that we would see them and they were right because about 6 of them were sitting on the side of the road when we pulled up.
combo	Made me feel kind of dumb for spending the money but they were totally worth seeing.
combo	They let us get pretty close and they were excellent to watch.
combo	Such erratic and playful behavior.
combo	Chimpanzees 90 USD- you need a 4x4 to get to them.
combo	We had to pay our driver $100 to find one in town for us to borrow.
combo	Just something to keep in mind.
combo	Also you will probably have to carry the guide with you so have an extra seat.
combo	That said it was a pretty strenuous hike cutting through side trails and running past ants.
combo	A lot of fun really just getting to see them.
combo	We found them pretty early.
combo	And got to watch them in their natural environment for a while.
combo	We weren't all that close.
combo	Need a telephoto lens to get good pics.
combo	Overall I thought it was worth it.
combo	"Between the Canopy Walk, a trek/visit to see the chimpanzees and other activities, this was a great place to spend a long weekend.
combo	The only thing that was missing was a variety of wildlife that seem to have been wiped out years ago."
combo	"We were here for just one night and one morning trekking to find chimpanzees.
combo	It was very slippery and wet (thunder all night before) and we only managed to see a couple of chimps from a distance, but was well worth it anyway.
combo	Views spectacular, and you really feel miles away from anywhere, which is, obviously, a good thing!
combo	I wish we had had the time to stay longer and explore."
combo	"We took the last bus on Friday starting in Kigali at 3 pm by Sotra Tours.
combo	The bus ride is very inexpensive at 5230 RWF (maybe 7$?
combo	and if you get on the bus in Kigali soon enough you will not have to sit in the aisle which makes the ride comfortable enough for the four to five hours it takes you to get there.
combo	If like us you want to go camping the Uwinka Visitor Centre is highly recommended and by entering the park you can tell the bus driver to drop you off there which is no problem.
combo	If arriving at night, please bring a flashlight - otherwise you won't find the spot.
combo	From the visitor centre you have to descend a few hundred meters to the camping site.
combo	There you have one shower (not always working, but they will at least hand you a bucket of water) and a toilet as well as a fireside und camping spots which possess of a roof and are placed on wooden platforms which keeps you safe from the rain.
combo	There might also be a few of the blue monkeys around so keep you food safely stored - they like bananas!
combo	You can rent a tent, mattresses and sleeping bags (in total 10,000 RWF) from the camp guy and they will make fire to keep you warm in the evening.
combo	I found the sleeping bags to be warm enough but still you might wanna bring a warm sweatshirt or a jacket.
combo	Per tent you pay 30$ for the night (residents get a discount).
combo	In the morning we booked a 3,5 hour trip (for 40$) to the waterfall combining it with the one that brings you up to the canopy walkway.
combo	Just tell the guides at the visitor centre they will be very helpful.
combo	Our guide (Hope) spoke very good English and was able to provide information about the park and several plants and animals as well as trivia and overall it was very easy to spend the hours with him.
combo	He guided us along the trail to the waterfall where we sat for a short break (you might want to bring water and a snack) before we started to hike back up to the visitor centre.
combo	The trail was very beautiful offering a lot of spectacular views over the park as well as great flora and fauna (giant mahogony trees and farns, butterflies, a waterfall, lots of birds, blue monkeys).
combo	There is list of different trails you can choose - according to your preferences, personal fitness and the time you want to spend.
combo	The centre itself offers food (I think you need to tell them in the morning or so), drinks (coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, water) and a small exhibition about the park.
combo	If you know when you want to go back and haven't booked the bus tickets in advance you can talk to the guides who are able to contact a bus agency which will make reservations for the bus.
combo	Then you just wait at the right time at the side of the road for the bus to pick you up again.
combo	The ride back may not be very comfortable as most of the comfortable seats will be taken by the other passengers who entered before.
combo	Overall I highly recommend spending a day or two or three at Nyungwe National Park and booking a trail with a guide as well as camping which will give you the ultimate experience close to nature waking up to a spectacular view of the park!"
combo	Nyungwe National Park is a beautiful area.
combo	The landscapes were very hazy while I was there but it kind of added to a majestic feeling to the area.
combo	We were there to go on a Chimpanzee trek and to do some monkey trekking.
combo	The area is very dense but very impressive.
combo	"Spent 2 days tracking chimpanzees and hiking in the rainforest.
combo	Chimpanzee tracking is tough, wet and slippery, but well worth it.
combo	The guide and porter are very well trained, so no stress.
combo	One of the most beautiful hikes is the long hike down to the waterfall, which starts at the visitor centre, challenging but spectacular.
combo	Well worth spending two days in this remote but beautiful location."
combo	"Spend a couple of days in the area, together with my family.
combo	We chose the easier tracking, also to make sure my children ( still young) wouldn't get to tired.
combo	It was a most enriching experience!!
combo	I would like to go back one day and try the option to spend one whole weekend in the park, sleeping in tents."
combo	Beautiful mountain rainforest.
combo	You can see chimps and other primates.
combo	Canopy walk is worth a look.
combo	Friendly and knowledgeable guides.
combo	"This is probably one of the most exciting and awesome things I have done in quite sometime, to be honest.
combo	To be able to walk on a thin bridge, 200 feet in the sky, and be able to look down and to your side and see pure beauty.
combo	It was just stunningly gorgeous.
combo	The skyline, to see that you're up in the mountains, and then to look down and see a rain forest.
combo	What else could one want?"
combo	"Nyungwe is an incredible park on the western border of Rwanda with a large amount of activities for tourists including nature walks, a canopy walk, bird watching and intense hikes.
combo	My favorite part of visiting Nyungwe was the nature walk to go see the chimpanzees.
combo	After a few hours we were able to see them from just a few feet away.
combo	They made sure to keep an eye on us and the energetic white and black Columbus monkeys in a nearby tree, but they were content with us watching them.
combo	It was a great experience and I'd love to go again sometime in the next few years."
combo	"This was one of my favorite parks in Rwanda.
combo	While I was there I went on a chimp tracking expedition.
combo	This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
combo	The hike out to the chimps was difficult so it is recommended that you train for the walk.
combo	However, the hike was so worth it.
combo	There were expert guides in the forest who follow the chimps around all day and know their location at all times.
combo	We then arrived at the chimp location and was able to see them up in the trees.
combo	The trackers were very patient with us and allowed us to stay with the chimps for hours and watch their activity in the tree tops.
combo	The trackers were also very knowledgeable about the chimps.
combo	Seeing chimps that close in the wild was an amazing experience.
combo	Besides the chimps there are also many other amazing things to do in Nyungwe National park, including the canopy walk and some of the best hiking trails in the country.
combo	I would absolutely recommend a visit to this park."
combo	"Nyungwe National Park was absolutely amazing!
combo	I spent three days there and loved it!
combo	My class and I met the director of this park.
combo	He was very insightful and friendly.
combo	He has done a phenomenal job managing Nyungwe.
combo	I went on the canopy walk and the chimpanzee trek.
combo	Both activities were stunning.
combo	The canopy walk consists of three bridges that connect two towers in the jungle.
combo	You have to hike about 30 minutes downhill to get to the canopy walk.
combo	The canopy walk was not nearly as scary as it looked.
combo	The bridges were sturdy.
combo	You could not beat the views from the middle of the longest bridge.
combo	The guide was very kind and knowledgeable about the bridges.
combo	I would recommend this activity to everyone!
combo	The chimpanzee trek was quite an experience.
combo	I went on one of the harder hikes in the park.
combo	We hiked about three or four hours to the chimps' location.
combo	Then we spent a little over an hour watching them in a tree.
combo	The guides and trackers were knowledgeable.
combo	This hike was very challenging.
combo	I would not recommend it for inexperienced hikers.
combo	The views were stunning!
combo	Be prepared for rain!
combo	In addition, if it is raining the guides will not take you on the bird walk.
combo	You can rent rain boots and ponchos to hike in from the park as well.
combo	Walking sticks are provided for free.
combo	I would recommend visiting this national park!"
combo	"So many fun things to do, from chimpanzee tracking, to bird-watching, to a canopy walk.
combo	It's an absolutely breath-taking forest, unlike anything I've ever seen.
combo	We went on the chimpanzee tracking for which there are different length hikes for people of different skill levels, and then you work with the trackers until you find the chimpanzees.
combo	Totally worth the hike to see a group of wild chimps!
combo	Also the guides are extremely friendly and knowledgeable, and help you every step of the way.
combo	I also would highly recommend the canopy walk, even if you have a fear of heights it's something you MUST do.
combo	It's very safe yet extremely thrilling - you feel like you're on top of the world (which you are in a sense).
combo	And on the way there and back you have the chance of seeing other wild animals too, which makes it even better!
combo	Do be mindful that it's a rainforest and so don't be surprised if you get rained on a little during a hike, it doesn't usually last long, however activities like birding are hard to do if the weather is bad."
combo	"Easily one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen, it was incredible.
combo	The forest surrounded by tea fields and mist was too cool.
combo	There was plenty to keep me busy from the thrilling canopy walk to the chimp hikes.
combo	Be warned that if it is raining birding will most likes get cancelled.
combo	I was also impressed by the high quality paved roads."
combo	"The National Park is a beautiful area on a 4 hours drive from Kigali, 2 hours from Butare/Huye.
combo	We did the Canopy walk from Uwinka Visitors Centre.
combo	It is a beautiful walk and easy when you can't do long and difficult paths.
combo	But we found it a bit expensive for what you actually get.
combo	When you don't have a car it is still possible to get to visitors centre by bus.
combo	For your way back you might want to book you ticket in advance or go for the more adventurous way by waving down a car or hoping the bus has some seats left.
combo	We didn't book in advance, but they told us that could pay by card.
combo	You can only pay at the RDB office by card when you book in advance."
combo	I had to do a 5hour roadtrip from Kigali and just hoped it was well worth it.
combo	Indeed it was.
combo	I met a Rwandan family who warmed up to me and made both the canopywalk and camping quite exciting.
combo	I was scared but it didn't show or rather i didn't allow it stop me from braving up and enjoying myself while exploring my sense of adventure.
combo	"A lovely place to visit, lots of things for everyone.
combo	A little expensive but if you think you are contributing to the protection of the forest, animals and jobs well worth it.
combo	The canopy walk was expensive and would not do this if I went back but would recommend the Kamiranzovu walk just amazing rain forest and swamp there are looking to reintroduce elephants back to this area which will make it even more a must do."
combo	Plenty of wildlife and incredible views.
combo	There is also a trail system for long and/or short hikes.
combo	I did the canopy which wasn't the right trek for me.
combo	Look into all of them before choosing.
combo	"During a short trip to Rwanda I visited the Nyungwe forest.
combo	Regardless of the qualities of the forest which in itself is very beautiful - I would not recommend visiting it and this is why: extremely expensive combined with BAD service.
combo	Decided to combine 2 ""medium hikes"".
combo	One was said to take 3 hours and a half and the other was the canopy walk (1.5 hours) and we were told the 2 could be combined.
combo	You pay the full price for each hike so...
combo	I'd expect to get the full two hikes.
combo	The first was 40 dollar, the canopy walk 60 dollar; Thats $100 indeed.
combo	What did I get for this?
combo	A 3 hour walk in a group of nearly 20 people and 1 (!!!
combo	guide; Out of the twenty people there were two who decided to hold a screaming contest for the ENTIRE trip without a single comment from the guide; This while you visit this forest to meet primates, obviously scared away by this level of noise!
combo	There were 3 people in the group who wanted to do the canopy also.
combo	At the end of the hike we were instructed towards the canopy (150 meter long or so) and walked it.
combo	Apparently that's all we were getting for our $60.
combo	Not a 1.5 hour additional hike.
combo	Utter rip-off.
combo	Visit Nyungwe?
combo	Sure.
combo	But take one of the longer hikes (6 or 8 hours).
combo	You'll also pay 40 dollar but you'll have a proper day out, a chance to see primates and birds and probably less other tourists ruining your trip by not keeping their mouths shut."
combo	"Okay, so Nyungwe National Park is a special place; it's one of few large tracts of mountain rainforest is Africa and it's home to chimps and some 12 other primate species.
combo	BUT...it's a haul for a long weekend from Kigali (definitely not a weekend trip!
combo	and the schedule of activities is so regimented that it's hard to get immersed in the feel of being in the park.
combo	Given that the rains come pretty predictably every afternoon, one is limited to one morning activity per day, with the time prescribed by the park.
combo	If doing a road trip around Rwanda it's no doubt worth a stop but otherwise might not be justified."
combo	"Great park to see Rwandan wildlife (mostly primates) and beautiful rolling mountains of rainforest.
combo	The canopy walk is worth it (even if you're scared of heights!).
combo	Come prepared for mud, rain, and some insects.
combo	Hills are steep.
combo	You have to be in pretty decent shape to handle even the easiest hikes."
combo	Visited nyungwe national forest for the 2nd time.
combo	Indeed an awesome place with breathtaking views.
combo	Luckily the weather was also too cool.
combo	Enjoyed every bit of it.
combo	"My daughter and I paid $50 each to do the waterfall walk.
combo	It rained half way through the walk (not unexpected) but when we arrived at the waterfall, the railing was broken so we could not use it.
combo	We had to wade through flood water on our return, which was very dangerous and we could have been washed away.
combo	This would have been fatal.
combo	Our guide, who was very good, said it has been like this for a long time and encouraged us to complain as it is also dangerous for guides.
combo	Why don't they use the walk costs to improve health and safety?
combo	Apparently they have not public liability."
combo	"Shockingly beautiful, and like nothing I'd ever seen in East Africa.
combo	I highly recommend this - great wildlife and biodiversity, and helpful, professional guides.
combo	Go on the chimp trek!"
combo	"we enjoyed with my colleagues last trip to Nyungwe National Forest, we walked on Canopy walk ans we saw Cimpanzs"
combo	"The walks in Nyungwe are varied and interesting, but the pricing structure is a challenge!
combo	All require a guide, and some advance booking for example chimp tracking, but we were able to book waterfall and colobus monkey tracking walking on the day, with the latter a great experience just off the track through tea plantations."
combo	"Try camping in this incredible forest full of primates.
combo	Rangers can provide basic food, charcoal etc.
combo	You'll remember waking up here for the rest of your life.
combo	A Rwanda highlight."
combo	I visited this National Park to track chimpanzees.It was a difficult task due to the terrain but the porters were excellent and I would urge everyone doing such a trek to hire a porter for assistance.The trek was well worth the effort when we finally got to the chimps and saw them feeding up in the trees .The atmosphere was incredible when they started to call out to other group members and the noise built up to a crescendo.They were also joined by some very agile monkeys so got double the value.Our guide was very knowledgable and friendly as were all the people I met on my stay in Rwanda.I also visited a waterfall in the forest the next day which initially was easier underfoot but became harder as we had to clamber over rocks and boulders as we got nearer to it.Again it was well worth the effort and our Guide was excellent.
combo	"Experience true Rwandese nature in Nyungwe National Parke.
combo	Take a guide tour up to the waterfalls and don't forget to take a dive in the cold, I mean refreshing water... ;-)"
combo	Good tasting with nature feeling and deep impact with scimpanzè and other various of monkeys.
combo	Very easer wolking trail without any kind of difficult.
combo	"With limited time we chose the colobus walk...and weren't disappointed.
combo	Guides well trained, and walks through tea plantations interesting before going into forest.
combo	Make sure you have accommodation before you travel, its quite hard to find!
combo	Also all guides and scouts need tips, apart from costs paid to the Parks for walk and guiding!"
combo	Absolutely loved the canopy walk and great hike it was.
combo	The different tree species and thick forest makes the experience worth every bit.
combo	Even the Air is different in Nyungwe.
combo	"I had an amazing time at Nyungwe, enjoying the canopy walk and the waterfall hike.
combo	I choose to take the hike instead of seeing the chimps.
combo	I will return to explore and observe more - chimps, monkeys, and birds in particular.
combo	My spectacular trip included gorilla trekking and was perfectly arranged by Danny at Bizidanny Tours."
combo	"I cannot describe the beauty of this rainforest.
combo	In the morning we hiked from our gorgeous hotel and spa, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, to the edge of this national park.
combo	From there, our guide gave us tidbits of information about the plants, trees, and wildlife that we were seeing.
combo	Our group consisted of approximately 10 hikers from around the world.
combo	It was fascinating getting to know everyone.
combo	Our guide gave us plenty of time as we hiked the 1 1/2 hours to the waterfall to chat with our fellow hikers.
combo	The hike is not for people used to being on flat terrain, but it will not be difficult for experienced climbers.
combo	When we finally got to the waterfall, we gasped at its beauty.
combo	A bit further into the park was the canopy suspension bridge.
combo	The bridge consists of three separate bridges, two shorter ones and one long one in the middle.
combo	The bridge was funded by the USAID to encourage tourism in Rwanda.
combo	From the top of the bridge visitors can view the upper canopy of the rainforest.
combo	I highly recommend this national forest if anyone is visiting this area of Africa.
combo	It is not to be missed."
combo	"This is a very special place with an amazing diversity of birds, plants and primates, many unique to the area.
combo	I had the pleasure of two mornings bird watching with Vedaste an experienced and knowledgable guide.
combo	We did the Mt Bigugu and Karamba trails."
combo	"Nyungwe is beautiful.
combo	Unspoiled rain forest with a variety of birds and primates hidden within.
combo	To justify the high cost of everything, one hopes that the fees are being used to protect and conserve this wilderness.
combo	We drove our own vehicle to the park along with 2 other families with young children.
combo	The highway passes directly through the Forest so one does not even have to get off the highway to experience some of its beauty.
combo	There are often monkeys or baboons along the road.
combo	The primary and secondary forests are also quite spectacular.
combo	As we drove from the west, we passed the entrances for the two common hotels on this site.
combo	More about one later... Our destination was the Canopy Walk, an elevated metal walkway designed and built with help from USAID.
combo	On arrival at the office, we were glad that our Burundian 2 year visas allowed us to enter at the East Africa Community rate of $50/adult and $25/child above 7 years old.
combo	Our 13 year old was charged the child rate.
combo	Natural walking sticks were available for free at the center while rain jackets were available for a fee.
combo	Bring your own water.
combo	There is a small information center where you can read about the canopy walk and the Forest trees and wildlife (in at least 3 languages!).
combo	A guide dressed in camo fatigues led us down an easy path to the base of the 3-part canopy walk.
combo	In groups of 8 or so, we crossed the 40 meter, 90 meter, and 25 meter long sections.
combo	There is a bit of swaying and movement of the bridges.
combo	The height of the 90 meter section is reported to be 40 meters to the ground below.
combo	There are some nice panoramic views from that middle section.
combo	On reaching the far side, individuals are given the option of either going back across the canopy or passing through the valley floor.
combo	The distance is approximately the same.
combo	The walk back up is not technical but is somewhat strenuous.
combo	There are occasional benches where one could pause.
combo	Almost all of the school-aged children made the whole hike without problem.
combo	The round trip is probably 2-3 hours including a short rest at the end of the canopy walk.
combo	There is a picnic area at the station where we ate our lunches.
combo	There were no obvious facilities for purchasing food or drink.
combo	There are clean toilets at the office as well.
combo	The wildlife viewing was not spectacular.
combo	We saw a few birds in the distance and a few of the small monkeys in some dense canopy.
combo	The big picture views of the forest are the memories that I have from that place.
combo	On our drive out of the Forest, we stopped for a short break at the Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
combo	You can read others' reviews of this ""5 star"" location.
combo	They allowed us to enter the lobby and we briefly enternained the idea of taking tea but the US $9 per person charge was beyond what we wanted to pay.
combo	I'm not sure if that is only for a cup of tea or for the true English tea time with biscuits.
combo	It is worthwhile to drive back to the Lodge to see the beauty of the tea fields and see the architecture of the place.
combo	We also saw a small troop of monkeys in nearby trees.
combo	There are many other hikes available in the Forest.
combo	With our limited time and the presence of a bunch of kids, we felt like the Canopy Walk was a good choice.
combo	All of the other hikes cost about the same amount- $50 per person.
combo	Perhaps a longer hike with closer proximity to wildlife would be a good follow up."
combo	"We wanted to get a taste of the Nyungwe National Forest and decided to do the shortest trail, the Canopy walk.
combo	This took us about two hours (going and coming back).
combo	This short trail costs 60USD which seems a lot but is definitely worth it.
combo	The guides are very friendly and helpful and are trying to give you as much information as they can about the forest and its fauna and flora.
combo	The hanging bridge was truly amazing and gave us an extraordinary view.
combo	It's located about 70m above the ground but seems a lot less because of all the high trees and bushes below you.
combo	Attention: you can't pay by credit card, only cash, so be sure to bring a lot of Rwandan francs."
combo	"We did the canopy walk, and that is pretty cool.
combo	Altough it's actualy just one canopy bridge divided in three parts it is nice.
combo	We saw a lot of birds, monkeys and the like,altough we tought afterwards that the US$60,- per person was a bit steep.
combo	But we had good guide and we took our time which made it a pretty cool"
combo	"I last walked on the Nyungwe Canopy in 2012 and it was simply amazing,this time again?It is still excellent.The guides are great and knowledgable.My guide Christian Musafiri gave me a great insight about the forest.He even waited for me when i had failed to walk up the Uwinka Visitors center due to the steep slope.I will always do the canopy once i get to Nyungwe and will always recommend my clients there."
combo	"Unfortunately, we didn't have more time to explore this beautiful national park.
combo	The trail to the waterfall was exceptional with many monkeys, butterflies, chameleons, thousands of ants coverings the trail for meters (don't even stop walking....!
combo	and breathtaking views.
combo	Don't miss this walk, even if it is tough at times.
combo	The Canopy Walk, on the other hand, was interesting, too, but way to expensive, in comparison.
combo	Bird watching is best in June, so save your money on that during the other months, birds ar everywhere anyway if you are observant and patient.
combo	Hope to be back soon!"
combo	"Nyungwe National Park is a gem in Africa.
combo	While savannah tours and safaris are abundant in the region, there are very few locations where you can still see pristine and virgin Cloud Forest.
combo	While larger forests exist in the southern tips of Uganda and in the Congo Basin, Rwanda provides a safe, organized, and well done environment in which to experience it.
combo	There are some great hotels, including the Nyungwe Forest Lodge, that allows you to be up close with the forest from your room.
combo	You can do a canopy walk that leaves you dangling above the trees with a full 360 of the forest that stretches for miles in all directions, and you can see the incredible biodiversity of fauna and flora that exists in the region.
combo	A must for bird watchers.
combo	Treks are not for the faint of heart, however unexperienced trekkers should not be discouraged.
combo	It is completely doable, even if you do not have extensive experience in trekking, however it is physically tiring and water bottles, energy bars, and snacks are recommended as it is quite humid and dehydration should be kept in mind.
combo	Children are able to be taken on these tours, especially the canopy walk.
combo	More intense treks such as the chimp trek may be more difficult (especially if you need a permit to see the animals (investigate before going))."
combo	"We really had an amazing time in Nyungwe.
combo	I was a bit concerned before we got there because there is really very little information regarding the hikes available and the times when the hikes leave on the internet.
combo	I was given an email address by someone at the Rwanda Development Board to have my questions answered, and the person answering my emails consistently gave me inaccurate information.
combo	Fortunately, when we showed up at the Gisakura office of the Park, the rangers were friendly and helpful.
combo	With their assistance we were able to do 3 hikes during our time in the Park (Chimpanzee Tracking, the Isumo Trail, and the Canopy walk in Uwinka).
combo	Chimpanzee tracking was amazing.
combo	It starts early in the morning and (at least for us) involved a pretty difficult scramble off-trail up and down the hillside.
combo	I thought it was worth it and absolutely worth the money.
combo	Isumo Trail (waterfall trail).
combo	We did this trail in the afternoon after chimpanzee tracking as they offer it at 9AM and 1PM.
combo	This is really a beautiful trail.
combo	One thing I would say is that the Park offers you the option of either walking through the tea fields to the trailhead, or having your driver drop you off at the trailhead.
combo	I would 100% recommend walking through the tea fields.
combo	They are beautiful and it is the easiest part of the hike.
combo	Also, as a bonus we saw black and white colobus monkeys and a blue monkey in a patch of forest in the tea fields.
combo	Canopy Walk - We basically did this trail because it was short and we didn't have much time.
combo	It is also offered at 8am, 10am and maybe in the afternoon as well, so there are options.
combo	It is a beautiful trail, but I do wish we had more time and could do one of the longer trails that takes you deeper into the Park.
combo	The cost for the hikes does seem expensive, but I don't think this is a very large portion of the funding for the Park.
combo	Also each of our three guides was extremely nice, very knowledgeable about the Park, and also very enthusiastic about conservation.
combo	We did not camp (we stayed at the guesthouse), but when we were in Uwinka, our guide, Danny explained that the campground was being renovated and expressed hope that more people would camp in the park in the future.
combo	I think that would be an amazing experience.
combo	If I could suggest anything for this Park, it would be a much better web presence with accurate information that will allow tourists to plan their visits better."
combo	"This is a very hard trek, do not be mistaken.. but the guides and porters are very helpful, know their information and experience worthwhile once you have reached them."
combo	"Challenging roads under construction to access this remarkable, high altitude, original tropical rainforest.
combo	A delight for its vegetation, birdlife, waterfall and primates.
combo	Not surprising to have heavy rains - so be prepared.
combo	A long way for day visits.
combo	The luxury option for overnight stay - the Nyungwe Forest Lodge, with its small arc of villas on an old tea plantation on the NW edge of the Forest."
combo	"I went with a private driver from Kigali as I only had one free weekend and wanted to see as much as possible; both of the area and the drive up there.
combo	I stayed at Nyungwe Forest Lodge which is fantastic (see separate review) but you can do this trip on the cheap too through camping, small lodges and other hotels.
combo	Buses from Kigali also run into the area.
combo	There are a variety of headquarters when you arrive and you need to know which one to go to in order to do the hike you want.
combo	If doing the chimpanzee trekking, you must book in advance.
combo	I booked and paid the day before but I was at the park during a the non-tourist season and I was the only one on the trek that morning (lucky me!
combo	The park headquarters is the closest one to the Nyungwe Forest Lodge (5 minutes away).
combo	I left the lodge at 4.45am and met my guide at the headquarters.
combo	From there we drove about an hour to a trail leading into the forest.
combo	It had rained the day before so the trails were very slippery and there was a lot of going up and down.
combo	I often caught myself out of breath as I had forgotten about the altitude!
combo	Later we met a tracker who hacked our way through the bush.
combo	We got to about a half hour away from the chimpanzees (18 of them) when I decided to turn back.
combo	I have an injured arm and we had to cross very slippery rocks covered in moss.
combo	Had I not had the injury I would have gone forward but it wasn't worth the risk to me.
combo	Plus I had 100% enjoyed my 5 hours in the forest and felt blessed to have been there alone.
combo	The group size is 8 people so make sure you book for this trip in advance.
combo	The cost is $90 and is well worth it.
combo	The next day I did the canopy walk for $60.
combo	The headquarters for this one are about 30 minutes from the Nyungwe Lodge.
combo	Again I was the only one on the walk ... lucky, lucky me!!
combo	This time the trail was dry and much easier to walk.
combo	This is listed as an easy trail but there is some up and down walking to be done.
combo	The views from the canopy were amazing and I got up close to three monkeys.
combo	On all hikes you will need a raincoat, water, and hiking shoes.
combo	If doing a longer hike (like the chimps) take some snacks too.
combo	All headquarters have toilets and they have food for sale.
combo	Remember however that the Chimp HQ is closed at 5am so take your own food in!
combo	All the guides/trekkers I had were knowledgeable and were genuinely nice people!"
combo	"We went on a three and a half kilometre walk, in the rain and after a dramatic thunderstorm.
combo	It was beautiful and our guide did a great job explaining about the biodiversity.
combo	The canopy walk was fantastic, to be up that high, it is totally safe, although perhaps with a large group it could swing more.
combo	It is quite expensive, but at the same time, the money goes to the park, and the fact that tourists are there protects it from poaching and encroaching, so the money is going to the right place."
combo	"We traveled from Kigali to spend one night at the Nyungwe Hill Top Hotel and squeezed in two excursions the next day before driving back to the city.
combo	Two nights would have been better.
combo	The first excursion was to find the Colabus monkeys.
combo	This cost $60.
combo	The walk to the monkeys took 10 minutes and we then met up with two trackers (trackers stay with the habituated monkeys so that they can always be found for us tourists).
combo	We hung out with the monkeys for about an hour or so and walked back through the plantation.
combo	We ended up tipping the trackers and the guide but came away feeling as though this was all too expensive for what we had experienced.
combo	This wasn't the same feeling we had after the Canopy excursion.
combo	They sweetly found a guide happy to leave an hour earlier (than 1pm - the times are 8am, 10am and 1pm).
combo	We walked through the forest on a good path for about half an hour before arriving at the bridge and the guide stopped and talked about specific trees and was open to questions about anything.
combo	He was guiding in both Kinyarwandan and English, because another family had joined us.
combo	Crossing the bridge was great fun and we got to see a purple breasted sunbird.
combo	We felt as though the cost of this excursion was worth every penny and although my legs suffered the next day, it was really enjoyable.
combo	Tip: stretch before getting back in your car!)"
combo	"We went on two hikes in Nyungwe and recommend both.
combo	We stayed at Gisakura guesthouse, which is right at the starting point for the Waterfall hike, which was great.
combo	It says it takes 4 hours, which is just about exactly what it took us.
combo	If you have your own transport (or someone in your hiking group has transport and will take you) you can drive to the start, which we did (otherwise it is an hour walk to the start of the forest.
combo	If you have time, this would be a neat walk through the Tea plantation.).
combo	We had one person in our group who was pretty slow, so it did end up taking 4 hours.
combo	If you are a group of faster hikers, it would take less.
combo	We enjoyed the slow pace because you can really have time to take photos and discover more of the diversity of life around you.
combo	We didn't see much animal life, but there are plants growing on plants growing on plants.
combo	The paths are well kept.
combo	It is a moderate hike, with the first half primarily going down towards the water and eventual waterfall, and then the second half coming back up.
combo	With a slow pace this is easily doable by anyone reasonably fit.
combo	The forest is spectacular, with moss hanging on trees and a huge variety of plants.
combo	The second hike we went on was the Canopy Walk/Igishigishigi Trail, including the tree fern loop.
combo	At the start of this hike we were lucky enough to encounter a huge group of monkeys (can't remember the type), which the guide said was one of the largest groups in the forest.
combo	They aren't always around there, so that just based on luck.
combo	They were neat to see because the whole area of trees were shaking and shivering as monkeys dove from branch to branch with amazing leaping ability.
combo	This hike was relatively easy and could be done almost anyone even if you are not that fit.
combo	It was only about 2 hours long and still had some up and down, but not quite as much as the waterfall trail.
combo	The canopy walk was really neat, a little scary for me, but totally worth it.
combo	We saw a couple of neat birds on this trail as well, but still primarily plants life.
combo	The start location for the canopy walk/Igishigishigi trail was about a 45 minute drive from Gisakura guesthouse.
combo	If we had had more time we would have loved to do a couple more hikes in the forest.
combo	Each trail costs around 50. to 60.
combo	per person, so you do have to keep that in mind.
combo	It is nice though, because by paying for a guide (and tipping him) you pay to help protect the forest and keep it completely free from litter and poachers.
combo	We felt like the investment was worth it and it was nice to have a guide to ask questions to and to tell us more about what we were seeing.
combo	Our guide, Hope, on the canopy walk, was particularly great and I was grateful for him as he helped me across the canopy walk by keeping me in conversation to distract my brain from the fact we were so far off the ground.
combo	Nyungwe Forest is a must see in Rwanda!"
combo	"I visited last week the canopy walkin Nyungwe National Park.
combo	Its not far from the main road to rusizi.
combo	In the forest, I liked the crossing on the Canopy which is linking 2 hills, I have been so scared but It have been one of the best experience I have got in the start 2015.
combo	I thank RDB people who have helped me to cross this canopy.
combo	Thank you"
combo	"Visit Nyungwe National Park to see Chimps, Golden Monkeys and bird viewing!
combo	More importantly to walk on the ""canopy walk-way"" amidst tall, thick natural forest.
combo	It was a good and rewarding experience."
combo	It was exciting passing by that Bridge since you are really higher seeing trees on the top and what i disliked was the less information for cummuter so that they can know the Bus schedules.
combo	"This is a park that is not to be missed.
combo	The hikes offer unforgettable experiences depending on which animals you see.
combo	I have to recommend the colobus monkeys.
combo	If you do no other hikes, do this one.
combo	They're amazing.
combo	If you have the time and money, do everything they have to offer.
combo	The guides are all friendly and extremely well educated.
combo	Just be familiar with where each hike starts.
combo	You have to provide your own transportation between the Visitor's Center and the hotels you might be staying in.
combo	Also, you need a 4x4 to be able to see the chimpanzees, which we didn't realize (it said recommend, not required) and our driver only had a regular car, so we had to pay $150 to a driver who lost the other 2 vehicles he was following, delaying our arrival.
combo	Otherwise, the waterfall hike is a great 4 hour work out.
combo	The park wasn't that crowded when we were there, so we were the only 2 on some of the hikes, which made it even better.
combo	Be aware that if you're a foreigner, the prices for the activities are in US$ and that's how you pay.
combo	No credit cards.
combo	Try and have exact change.
combo	The permits/receipts are hand written, so arrive a little early and be advised that no one is in a hurry.
combo	If you want snacks, there is a nice little cafeteria there.
combo	Be sure to have sturdy shoes and clothes.
combo	The guides will size you up to make sure you can do the hike.
combo	But unless you're tracking a specific animal and a tracker is cutting through branches, you'll be on very nice trails.
combo	The park is clean and well maintained and the visit was a highlight of my time in Rwanda."
combo	"Both my walks were enjoyable and we saw monkeys on both trips however the walks are overpriced for what you get.
combo	The village stay at Banda village two hours walk from Uwinka is recommend, interesting to see village life and the cultural performance (see brochure on the park website under cultural tourism for details)."
combo	"I visited Nyungwe in June 2014 and had a hard time finding the right information on transportation, how to get a chimp permit and just how the logistics worked once you got there.
combo	Here's what I found.
combo	1.
combo	We hired a driver from Kigali as the information on how to get around once you got to the park was sparse.
combo	I'm glad we did.
combo	The drive from the park office to the beginning of the chimp hike was about 1.5 hours and the drive from our hotel to the start of the canopy walk was about 30 minutes.
combo	It also enabled us to drive to another hotel for a meal one night.
combo	If you do take the bus, the hotel said they could book transport but it would be expensive.
combo	It's a toss up but I liked the sure thing!
combo	It also enabled us to stop along the way on the way to and from the forest if we saw something on the side of the road we wanted to photograph or visit.
combo	2.
combo	We stayed at the Hill Top Hotel which was wonderful, I'll do a separate review on that.
combo	Titus at the front desk was kind enough when I registered to book our chimp permits for the day we wanted.
combo	When we arrived at the hotel around 6 he told us to go directly back to the park office as we needed to pay for and receive our permits before the office closed (it closed at 4:30 but they stayed open for us).
combo	So we drove the short distance to the office, picked up and paid for our permits which you cannot do the morning of your trek.
combo	We were then told to be back at that office at 5am for our trek and that the guide would need a ride with us...another reason to have your own vehicle and driver.
combo	3.
combo	The next morning we were at the park office at 5, got organized and drove to the start of the trek about 1.5 hours away.
combo	The trek itself lasted about 6 hours and depending on the day and where the chimps are can be an easy, moderate or difficult hike.
combo	Ours was difficult!
combo	It was about 2/5 hours on trails and about 3 hours through the jungle up and down, across, over, running through ants etc.
combo	We saw chimps way up in the trees at about the 4.5 hour mark.
combo	I'm so glad we did it, but it can be a very difficult hike depending where the chimps are that day.
combo	It is much harder than gorilla trekking and more active once you find the chimps.
combo	We were able to radio our drivers to come to a closer meeting spot at the end.
combo	4.
combo	The next day we walked through the tea plantations which as noted in the guide books is just a short walk from the guest house or hotel.
combo	Our driver walked with us and was able to translate and negotiate a tour for us at the tea factory which is just off the main road.
combo	It was interesting and worth the visit.
combo	You can walk there down the main road.
combo	5.
combo	The next day we did the canopy walk in the morning and the waterfall walk in the afternoon.
combo	Both were great.
combo	Both have specific times of the day they are scheduled to leave.
combo	For example, Canopy at 9, 11 and 1.
combo	Waterfall at 9 and 1.
combo	We just showed up for the canopy walk and got on, but we booked for the waterfall at the park office.
combo	There are 2 park offices about 30 minutes drive apart.
combo	Waterfall and Chimps leave from the one by the guesthouse and Canopy leaves from the other one.
combo	The waterfall walk had the option to walk back to the park office or end at the Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
combo	We chose the lodge as it was closer and we wanted to see it.
combo	We called our driver to meet us there and ended up having a great dinner there.
combo	It is about a 15 minute drive from the guest house and Hill top."
combo	"Friendly, helpful guide on one visit to the waterfalls, on the the chimpanzee walk a different guide was not so good .It is quite strenuous walking.in the forest but an amazing experience.
combo	The noise of the forest is unforgettable."
combo	"This was my second visit to Nyungwe National Park and trekking to see the Chimpanzees.
combo	The first was in the rain.
combo	The downside was that it was very slippery and wet (of course!
combo	the upside - the chimpanzees stayed in one place and we saw a nice big family together.
combo	This time is was nice weather so they kept on moving.
combo	We did a LOT of trekking as they kept on moving and only managed to really see 1 female in a tree.
combo	The staff did their best to help us see more and before we left we saw a male, female and baby cross the path we were walking in.
combo	Still worth it.
combo	My only advise to fellow travellers is that if you are the last car and you are driving by yourself remember to tell the car in front to make sure you keep up and wait for you.
combo	We were the last car and at one stage they lost us..."
combo	"The source of the Nile?
combo	Perhaps.
combo	This national park is so lush, teeming with wildlife, and there seems to be a beautiful surprise around every turn.
combo	Spend time hiking the trails, enjoying the various climate zones you encounter.
combo	Nature at its best!"
combo	"We are so glad we did the Canopy Tour!
combo	Nacisse is extremely knowledgeable about the birds, the plants, and other wildlife, making it a very educational experience.
combo	The best part was the walk across the canopy bridge - a bit scary, but very worth the effort!
combo	Amazing views!
combo	The park drive is also beautiful!
combo	We saw monkeys along the side of the road!"
combo	The experience with the canopy walk is just incredible.
combo	And the primates + birds!
combo	Remarkable Rwanda...
combo	"We visited Nyungwe to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
combo	Having met the knowledgeable and friendly staff, we set off in cars to the location.
combo	The rain forest was so dense!
combo	You eed to wear sturdy walking shoes and long trousers and a long sleeved top as you actually pass through the rainforest foliage off the beaten track following the guides as they lead you to the best locations to view the chimps, guided by their hard-working trackers.
combo	It took some time to locate the chimps, but patience paid off as we started to hear their calls all around us and shortly later spotted two chimps cross the path we had just come along!
combo	Shortly afterwards, we were guided in to the rainforest and soon spotted chimps sitting in the trees, eating their breakfast- not just one chimp but a group of chimps including an entertaining and acrobatic young one!
combo	We stood speechless, transfixed by these close relatives of humans going about their daily business in the sanctuary of their natural habitat.
combo	The cost for this priceless experience was 90 US dollars each, but so worth it!
combo	An unforgettable experience."
combo	"The density and size of the trees is amazing.
combo	It is truly worth going to the forest, the road on its own is worth the trip !"
combo	"I visited this Park, Last week on 21st May 2014.
combo	I was a very interesting trip.
combo	I was in a team of scientist who are interested in protecting the environment.
combo	I like many birds that are there and also monkeys.
combo	I also like so much the canopy walk...I was my first to pass through a canopy.
combo	I liked also the water fall."
combo	"The park is beautiful, and the flora is incredible.
combo	We went on the canopy walk trek, and got an opportunity to se the rainforest from above.
combo	The drawback of the trip was that the wildlife wasn´t really there.
combo	On the other hand you could see a lot of primates on the trip to and from the park"
combo	"Nyungwe bird walk We are avid birders and keen to see some of the 300 birds that are supposed to live in the Nuyngwe Rainforest.
combo	A permit and a guide is needed to enter into the forest.
combo	We picked up our guide at the parks board and he was a very pleasant guy called Proteous.
combo	He was keen to find out what kind of birds we were looking for and tailored the day accordingly.
combo	We were keen to see the Rift Valley endemics if at all possible.
combo	Proteous was very knowledgable and identified a lot by call as the jungle is really thick and it is very difficult to spot without a guide.
combo	I would not suggest going without a guide, even if it was allowed.
combo	We went to two different trails and saw a reasonable number of birds.
combo	Unfortunately, it rained during the walk and this certainly did not assist matters.
combo	It was also very overcast during the day and no sun can out at all.
combo	Made photography very difficult.
combo	Being at the end of March we also missed out on a lot of migratory birds which was a pity.
combo	Obviously best to come in July/August in the long dry season when the migrants are around.
combo	Nevertheless, we saw a good selection of birds, about 15 endemics and a bunch of other ones.
combo	We were lucky to see the greater blue, Ruwenzori and greater black Turaco.
combo	Not the most rare birds, but spectacularly beautiful!
combo	A good attraction, but rather do it in the dry season when the migrants are in town."
combo	"Another brilliant trip, the area is stunningly beautiful, roads excellent on the whole and everyone very friendly and helpful.
combo	So much to see, lots of wildlife.
combo	Had a guided walk, well worth it as guide very knowledgeable and he pointed out many plants we would have walked past.
combo	Would love to go back here . . Also passed UNHCR Refugee camp for people from DRC which was a bit of a shock, and had a puncture in the middle of nowhere.
combo	This could have been disastrous for 2 60+ women, but a couple of boys glided out of the bush and set to with great skill and enthusiasm, they kept getting phone calls from someone who was clearly saying lunch is in the dog if you are not back soon, but they persevered and sorted us out before disappearing back into the bush having reluctantly ish accepted £5 each for their efforts."
combo	"I went to Nyungwe during late Jan-early Feb.
combo	It was low season, and thus a great opportunity to go on hikes and activities with smaller groups that feel more personalized.
combo	At the same time, there's still plenty of international visitors to meet on your hikes.
combo	The park guides are impressively expert about the forest and friendly--one of them still remembered my name when I joined him for another hike two days later.
combo	I definitely encourage you to spend the mere 10 USD for the services of a porter, who is likely a former poacher now serving the parks and whose family is needy.
combo	The porter may not only carry your belongings, but also help you if you have difficulty on parts of the walk.
combo	Be forewarned: the chimps trek meets at 5 AM, so you will be waking by 3 AM to be all ready and have traveled to the site by then.
combo	It's worth it, though!
combo	I agree with G W that the waterfall hike, which is strangely less touted by tour companies, is a must-see.
combo	It was my favorite hike/activity of the four that I did.
combo	I had Claude for a guide, too, and he is super great!!!)"
combo	"...it was a half day adventure into this real African montane forestn with its vast of species ranging from; velvet monkeys, and rare bird species of Africa.
combo	i got an opportunity to view the rare blue crested species of the birds!!
combo	i was just at natural peace with the montane mixture of voices of different species !!
combo	it was a rare opportunity within a vey short time of day.
combo	i hope to arrange a personal trip just for wildlife in Rwanda!!
combo	it was all in totall amazent!!!!!"
combo	"Nyungwe National Park is a must-see for tourists to Rwanda.
combo	You can either book an all inclusive package from Kigali or go independently, which is much cheaper.
combo	There is a bus that runs between Kigali and Gisakura (the village right outside the park).
combo	Only choice for budget travellers seems to be Gisakura Guesthouse.
combo	Trip can be done without your own vehicle although not as easily - park rangers can arrange for motos to pick you up from the guesthouse and bring you to the visitor's centre in the park for 5000rwf.
combo	Park highlights: CHIMPANZEES: Chimp tracking is run out of the ranger station next to Gisakura Guesthouse.
combo	They offer several permits a day for 90USD (includes guide) and a 4-wheel drive car rental and driver for 150USD a day.The chimps are actually found in Cyamdongo, a sister forest to Nyungwe that's about an hour away by car (road conditions can be bad).
combo	Our guide was excellent and very knowledgeable.
combo	He was very helpful and eager to answer any questions.
combo	Tips: Bring raingear and a sweater (can be chilly).
combo	Our hike proceeded despite pouring rain and thunder.
combo	Binoculars can be helpful, as the chimps live high in the trees and you can't see them very well from the ground.
combo	Be aware that chimps don't always stick to the main trail so you will have to trek off-path through untouched rainforest, which can be physically demanding.
combo	WALK: The canopy walk starts with a 30-minute hike from the Uwinka Visitors Centre inside the park.
combo	The visitor's centre offers decent bathroom facilities and a cafe.
combo	The canopy walk is 50 meters above the ground and offers spectacular views of the valley below.
combo	Really enjoyable - unless of course you're afraid of heights.
combo	There's also a bunch of hikes - they all require a guide and a payment of 50USD or more.
combo	The park is definitely worth a visit, unfortunately all the activities are really expensive."
combo	"We live about 45 minutes away from the national park in Kamembe.
combo	We have driven through it, or rather been driven through it, at break neck speed on the bus from Kigali and although I have noticed the beauty of the national park and even seen the odd monkey I am usually more concerned with hanging onto my breakfast than appreciating the awesome rain forest.
combo	Although getting your head around organising a trip here is not straight forward it is so worth the effort.
combo	I would heartily recommend taking the waterfall trek.
combo	It only required us to hire transport to the centre and then our guide, Claude, did the rest.
combo	Breathtaking scenery and the waterfall in the rainforest was stunning."
combo	"This park is full of potential but it still lacks the necessary infrastructure to allow independent travelers to move within the park.
combo	We just made it to the gate but rain and the prospect of being stuck without a ride back made us stay and do a guided forest tour.
combo	It was a nice walk but no primates are on that side.
combo	We did watch a troop of baboons from their little restaurant.
combo	Really watch this place - they are building a backpackers hostel at the entrance which will really bring economic activity to the residents there.
combo	They are still shy, however, and when I asked to take a picture of a beautiful girl carrying wood she said no.
combo	I respected that."
combo	"We spent two days and one night in Nyungwe National Park.
combo	Began with a tour of the tea plantation and processing plant known to our guide, and then three fabulous meals, beautiful swimming pool, and quiet, serene grounds in the middle of a tea plantation.
combo	I'm talking about the Nyungwe Lodge, the best $500 a night you'll ever spend.
combo	This lodge defines good service."
combo	"We did two three hour hikes and it was a very nice experience and definitely not too strenuous.
combo	There are other hikes that require more physical perseverance for those that are into that.
combo	The landscape is really pretty and we did see some primates, which was fun.
combo	The groups are pretty small in size too so you don't feel like your queuing walking through the rain forest.
combo	A great experience!"
combo	"Went yesterday and have to say...
combo	IT!!!
combo	So glad we went and will remember it forever.
combo	There is quite a hike back, but don't well worth it!,"
combo	"For something completey different visit Nyungwe National Forest.
combo	I do not remember the exact date I was there, probably late early 2012, but it still deserves a positive review.An enormous amount of interesting bird species, but several species of monkeys as well and you can hear the chimps calling from as far as 3 km.
combo	There are several different trips to undertake, including the birdwalk (a guide is essential), a chimp hike or cross the newly constructed hanging bridge.
combo	There a a few places to stay overnight.
combo	We decided to go for the tea plantation which was an economic choice, but good enough for 1 night, friendly staff and a beautiful location on the hills.
combo	From there to the park's entrance is only a short ride.
combo	Bring some rain gear, cause the place is a RAIN forest !"
combo	"It is a big, mostly primary forest south in the country.
combo	Interesting place to make long, guided walks.
combo	Lots of birds.
combo	Even a flying squirrel near the canapee walk!
combo	Also a big family of black and white colobus monkey’s.
combo	Sadly we had no time to look for chimps.
combo	The guides are good, dedicated and kind.
combo	Better stay for several days around to see all of it."
combo	"If you like nature and hiking this is a place for you.
combo	If you dont - find canopy walk and just get scared.
combo	Not a must see, but still very interesting."
combo	"Waterfalls track.
combo	Starts nearby Gisakura guest house.
combo	We were enjoying very very much.
combo	Unbelievably beautiful Rainforest.
combo	A lot of birds around.
combo	Walk takes approx.
combo	4 hours, price 50$ per person.
combo	You feel like you are Tarzan in wild jungles: wield life around, you can see some animals, birds and other habitants of forest, also amazing waterfall.
combo	Very very pleasant walk.
combo	I really loved it."
combo	"Rwanda is known for Gorilla Trekking in Volcano National Park, but I highly recommend visiting Nyungwe Forest during your stay.
combo	The rainforest is breathtaking, a beautiful scenic drive down a well paved road, excellent selection of hikes and accommodations to choose from, and can be combined with a trip to Butare and related sights for a quick weekend getaway.
combo	We did the waterfall trail (beautiful, definitely recommended) which was not too difficult and a good length (10.4 km), and the canopy trail which is pricey, but worth it for the view and experience.
combo	We decided against any chimp or monkey trekking, since you had to wake up insanely early and we wanted a more relaxing getaway, but other visitors commented that they had a great time and really enjoyed the experience.
combo	You must go to this National Park if you're in Rwanda!"
combo	"My boyfriend and I were in Rwanda volunteering and we decided to go to the forest on a weekend off.
combo	The trip was amazing!
combo	We were a little dissapointed because we were told that we were not going ot be able to go chimpanzee trekking, so we recovered by going to see the collobus monkey colony, and the canopy walk, and i am so happy that we did.
combo	We were able to get much closer to the collobus monkeys than we ever would with the chimps.
combo	The canopy walk was unbelievably gorgeous, and our guide was very helpful, and informative.
combo	Even though I am terrified of heights, I managed to do this and I was so happy that I did.
combo	It was a great journey, and the park staff was very helpful.
combo	A piece of advice though: If you're planning on hiring a driver, MAKE SURE you get a car with 4 wheel drive.
combo	We spoke with a fellow volunteer before we booked, and she said that the roads were so bad that she was sick for a full day following her trip because of the motion.
combo	Also, the car became stuck several times while driving.
combo	When we went, we had an SUV and didn't have any problems at all."
combo	"It seems that the majority of visitors jet into Kigali, are whisked to Volcano National Park (PNV), and then spend the majority of their time there, going on one, two and sometimes even three subsequent gorilla treks.
combo	While seeing the gorillas is indeed amazing (and recommended!
combo	), don't miss the chance to visit Nyungwe Park in the southwest part of Rwanda.
combo	It is amazing.
combo	There is a huge diversity of birds and monkeys, the treks are wonderful and varied (e.g., colobus monkey trek, waterfall trek, canopy walk, trek, chimpanzee trek).
combo	The ""muzungu"" tourist crowd is also much diminished, meaning more opportunity to directly interact with the informative guides.
combo	The canopy walk is an experience in itself (in fact, our guide told us that the majority of visitors who get weak-kneed and turn back once they glimpse the canopy walk and how high it is above the ground are Americans!).
combo	Fortunately, there is a bypass so that if a sudden fear of heights comes over you, you can still rejoin your group."
combo	"We spent Christmas here, and were very impressed with the park.
combo	The info center is great and we learned a lot - mostly about what a big freakin deal Nyungwe is in the scheme of African ecosystems.
combo	It was gorgeous, lots of monkeys, well organized, and a GREAT guide.
combo	The canopy is a bit over rated, if you ask me.
combo	I wish we'd spent the money on a longer hike - either chimps or waterfalls.
combo	But, the place is gorgeous, special, and important, and I'm very glad we went.
combo	Take time to do the hikes.
combo	I wish we'd done more."
combo	"It is worth visit once in Rwanda.
combo	It is very beautiful and clean.
combo	lots if trecking and trail courses to enjoy.
combo	i took chimphanzi and waterfall trecking courses.
combo	the reservation before the day of chimphanzi tracking is essential.
combo	but the cost is much expensive.
combo	for foreigners, have to pay 90 dollars per person.
combo	One thing must know good body condition is required.
combo	it is very tough to give through the course.
combo	waterfall trecking was with satisfactory both cost and tracking."
combo	"I had always seen canopy walks in Movies and Brazilian Jungles or in the Amazons and wondered what it looked like in real life.The chance came in when Rwanda developed the great canopy walk in Nyungwe forest National Park.
combo	I decided to save my money and travel to Rwanda with most especially visiting Nynugwe forest canopy walk.the road was tarmacked taking us 5-hrs of drive time getting to Nyungwe to Gisakura guest house where i slept with rains and along freezing night.
combo	The next morning after my breakfast,i was given a ride to Uwinka visitors center by the Uwinka Project manager for the start of the Canopy tour at 8-am.
combo	The walk down from the visitors offices was 2500 descending down into the valley 204meters on a mainly slipperly ground but with a walking stick for protection.
combo	It was a great moment walking especially during the last 25meters on the wobbling canopy to hike back to the visitor's center.many primates sighted during the walk and birds.
combo	My only plea to the Rwandan Authority is to reduce the Entry permit from 60US Dollars to a more affordable fee as it seems expensive for the East African Residents I would recommend any one travelling to Rwanda to add on their itinerary the Nyungwe forest Canopy walk."
combo	"I would highly recommend adding this to any Rwandan itinirary(offcourse if you have the time).
combo	It is however very expensive.
combo	you will see from my previous posts also that accommodation is severely limited and pricey.
combo	The hikes start from about USD40 per person, canopy hike another USD60, chimps, monkey treks etc etc.
combo	And its very far to get to.
combo	At least 6-10 hours from Gisenyi, 4-6 hours from Kigali.
combo	This part is so ""not"" Rwanda.
combo	it was fantastic to not see a constant flow of people after almost a week in this highly populated country.
combo	The forests and the road through it is absolutely amazingly pretty.
combo	Its insane to see this much uninhabitated land in Rwanda.
combo	I would strongly suggest you go to see this piece of paridise."
combo	"Two hours' hiking on a well-maintained trail, 200m drop, well-informed guide ""Julius Caesar,"" who has a degree in environmental chemistry; lots of giant begonias, amazing mahogany trees; a refreshingly clear waterfall at the end--and lovely temperature!
combo	We'd love to return for birdwatching."
combo	Amazing experience.
combo	Lots that I learn’t about the culture and heritage.
combo	Understood a lot after reading and being told.
combo	Dance was fantastic.
combo	Very friendly people.
combo	Very good English speaking
combo	"A lovely “cultural” village in the vicinity of volcanoes national park.
combo	Staffed by former poachers and well worth a visit to relax, have fun, and understand more about Rwanda’s proud cultural history.
combo	I found myself shedding a tear when reading the testimonies of former poachers.
combo	This village plays a massive part in the conservation of the gorillas and any support provided is much appreciated."
combo	"We visited the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village as part of a two-day visit to the Volcanoes National Park area.
combo	This experience provides a taste of various Rwandan cultural experiences -- grinding grain in a traditional manner, a brief history of Rwanda, cultural drumming/dancing, Banana beer making, a traditional wedding ceremony and so on.
combo	The dancers/presenters are members of the surrounding community.
combo	It's a bit hokey at times and a bit touristy but the kids loved it and the singing/dancing/drumming was very good.
combo	The presenters made an earnest effort to share everything about their given stations.
combo	Overall, it's a good stop along our itinerary in this part of Rwanda and a fun use of a couple hours."
combo	"This experience reminded me of a colonial recreation village in the US.
combo	I appreciate that the village wants to convey its cultural history, and the villagers jobs are to be actors in this process.
combo	I know that my entry fee supports the community, so I was happy to visit.
combo	The performances and demonstrations were, in my opinion, a little hokey.
combo	Kids would probably love it.
combo	But might be scared by some of the tribal Dancing, screaming, and general carrying on."
combo	"This was such a fun part of the trip!
combo	It's a great cultural tour by former poachers that now support the community.
combo	You learn about the past and present of the village.
combo	There's also chances to participate in cultural dances, shoot a bow and arrow, drink homemade beer, and meet some of the great people there.
combo	highly recommended."
combo	Now called gorilla guardian village.
combo	The staff was so enthusiastic and friendly.
combo	The cultural details were ok.
combo	The people providing the demonstrations were the best I have every seen!
combo	Sincere friendly and informative and talented The music and singing they performed was phenomenal.
combo	I am trying to get a recording if I can
combo	Such an amazing cultural experience.
combo	Loved learning about Rwanda.
combo	The music and dancing is very entertaining.
combo	Really enjoyed the interactive experience!!
combo	Highly recommend.
combo	We arrived at the village without really knowing exactly what to expect and were immediately greeted with an extremely energetic welcome dance.
combo	We proceeded to have a guide around the various aspects of the village including traditional life.
combo	We got to try our hand at archery (sadly not naturally gifted at this!
combo	As well as trying some (very strong!
combo	Banana beer.
combo	We then witnessed a traditional wedding ceremony and dance - which we took part in.
combo	And finally we got to play at being king and queen.
combo	Overall very enjoyable.
combo	"There were four in our group, and another group of six.
combo	We were shown around by a guide.
combo	An interesting cultural experience."
combo	Our visit to the cultural village was exceptionally enlightening in learning of the local culture and also the gift of Mr. Barora Leonidas' energy.
combo	We had such an enjoyable time and learned much in the process.
combo	Took my teen here for some great learning and entertainment.
combo	We were the only ones there so got lots of attention.
combo	The singing and dancing was wonderful.
combo	We had a local gal go through each of the huts to show us the different ways Rwandans live and to explain that they were eliminating poaching in the jungle by selling crafts and having the cultural center for the former poachers to earn money other ways.
combo	"Enthusiastic singing and dancing, some of the explanations were very good, others touching only the surface"
combo	"Was a very interesting visit to a ""poachers"" village that now protects the forrest.
combo	We learned about local customs and crafts made in the village.
combo	They were very interactive with our family and had us participate in local dance and cultural activities."
combo	"Of course, this is totally aimed at tourists, but the hour spent here was so much fun and it gives you a good overview of Rwandan historical culture.
combo	It also supports local craftspeople and local economy.
combo	You can buy handmade souvenirs and even try some banana beer!
combo	Don’t miss it!"
combo	"Our guide took us here after the golden monkey tour.
combo	It was great.
combo	Everyone at the village is involved and wants you to have a nice experience.
combo	Educational, fun, helping the local community.
combo	Take the time and just do it !!"
combo	"I cannot believe my travel agent didn’t put this on my travel agenda.
combo	It was a last minute, this place has good reviews, I should check it out.
combo	Oh my this is a MUST DO!!!!
combo	I learned so much and was entertained and why does everyone is Rwanda treat visitors like a cross between the Queen of England and Beyoncé.
combo	I felt so welcome every single place I went.
combo	I was there during Covid and the covid protocols might be a hassle but it was so incredibly safe and comfortable there and people compiled and I never felt one second unsafe but some of the activities are modified.
combo	Even with the modified activities here, no banana beer tasting, it was SO MUCH FUN and educational.
combo	I would have missed out on so much history and understanding of Rwanda itself and their conservation efforts if I had not made this visit.
combo	Highest recommendation.
combo	Ask you travel agent to include it!!!!!"
combo	We learned about the local culture and had a lot of fun doing it.
combo	Got to take part in a mock wedding procession.
combo	The staff were a lot of fun.
combo	"during our stay at le bambou gorilla lodge, we got time to visit iby'iwacu culture village and learnt more about the rwandese culture"
combo	"Would highly recommend this experience for children, as well as for getting a base understanding of local traditions and customs.
combo	It's incredible what the community has built, and part of a larger theme of Rwanda creating jobs and opportunities for those who previously poached in the region.
combo	That said, we were the only ones at the exhibit at the time and felt some of the presentation was very colonial and uncomfortable."
combo	"Given that our three children were not allowed in to the Virunga National Park, we were on the lookout for an alternative activity.
combo	The area is very much focused on the gorillas, their conservation, etc.
combo	and for that reason, an alternative activity was surprisingly difficult to uncover, but what a gem we found!
combo	Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village was well-organised and interactive.The guides succeeded in engaging (completely!
combo	our travel-weary pre-teens and all of us came away having learned a lot about Rwanda, the area and its people."
combo	Very interesting cultural village.
combo	It's an excellent experience and a way to support the local community.
combo	"This village tour tells the story of a young man who had the vision to help families stop poaching in the forest to sustain their families.
combo	He convince them that tourists would be interested in learning about their culture and they could sustain their families by sharing various and interesting parts of Rwandan life.
combo	From blacksmithing to making banana beer to grinding flour, herbal medicine and more.
combo	You are then given a historical lesson and my husband and I got to be King and Queen for the experience.
combo	We witnessed a traditiona wedding ceremony that is still typical for weddings today.
combo	The drumming and dancing was fantastic.
combo	It was a joy to support this organization and know that we were contributing to the vision of community involvement in conservation and sustaining the environment of the precious mountain gorillas."
combo	This spot portrays the past and some of the traditions of the people of Rwanda.
combo	It teaches how the people have learned to respect wildlife and discourage poaching.
combo	You will be asked to join in on some of the displays and try your hand at some of the old-time activities.
combo	Drummers and dancers will perform some of the traditional ceremonies such as weddings.
combo	Definitely take the time to visit the cultural village and support the local people.
combo	It was an excellent experience and try the Banana Beer!
combo	"Had the best time here.
combo	Well worth a visit.
combo	The guide took us around and answered all our questions, he was very helpful and wanted to help us learn all we could.
combo	The dancing was great.
combo	And I was Queen Mother for a day.
combo	I loved it."
combo	I am the type of traveler that avoids inauthentic tourist traps typically disguised as “cultural experiences”.
combo	This was different.
combo	An inspiring story of a young man who became a leader in conservation by finding new ways for poachers to earn a living the cultural village is a must visit.
combo	You will leave not only smarter but inspired to drive positive change in the world.
combo	This was in no way a scam to take tourists money but rather an example of how a young brave mind can change the world and old minds can change as well with education and innovative solutions.
combo	"The place offers valuable insight into how Rwanda was before the colonialists, and the guides are fun and informative."
combo	I didn’t have high expectations coming in here but form the moment you step around the corner you are welcomed!!
combo	You are taken for walks around each tent which tells you all about how and why they did the things they did and you can see people acting them out.
combo	At the end they preform you and dress you up.
combo	It made my heart really happy.
combo	Please make sure you tip them as they are really passionate about what they do
combo	This was just a quick visit to learn about the history and culture of the area.
combo	And all the funds benefit the community.
combo	It did change its name to the Gorilla Guardians Village.
combo	"After we got over the surprise welcome, we thoroughly enjoyed the tour and experiences at the Cultural Village.
combo	All the activities were very well done.
combo	It's a great way to interact and learn about the culture in the area."
combo	"We were entertained, shown how the pygmies here came to be, how they lived, dressed in Queen and King attire and when it started to rain, they came to cover us with umbrellas.
combo	It was highly entertaining, as well as supporting the village people."
combo	This is the most fun - outside of the exhilaration of gorilla tracking - that I have had in 3 weeks of Uganda/Rwanda travel.
combo	My face hurts from smiling.
combo	"This is the village of ex-poachers, they previous stealing the gorillas due to poverty, they now stopped poaching, as they found different way to make living by running this culture village and also sending their young men to get in involved with gorilla conservation.
combo	Please come and visit them.
combo	They are so happy to see you and perform for you.
combo	I love Rwanda !"
combo	"My family was so happy to meet such nice people!
combo	Everything was great!
combo	The show, the dance, the history and the palace, the wedding and the music It was a great experiences for the kids... probably the only one the kids can enjoy there..."
combo	"It was amazing here, my clients wanted to experience a day tour to know more about Rwanda Culture, we always did this as part of our gorilla bookings, but this this for them they were only interested in a day cultural tour.
combo	We drove to this place, the way they were welcomed, made it all, they really enjoyed the place, you want t be treated or feel like a king in a life time, visit this place, it gives you a great cultural insight.
combo	It always advisable to visit it after your gorilla trekking than staying bored at the lodge.
combo	Talk to your consult and let him make the evening more fun since its a short drive and price friendly.
combo	Rwanda Eco Company and Safaris, made this great experience come true.
combo	It was so much fun for the client, it rapped it all to their interest."
combo	"I worry about places like this being tourist traps, but this really wasn't at all.
combo	The concept is inspirational, it is well done and you can see that the people working there are really proud of what they are doing.
combo	I learnt a lot, smiled so much and such a fantastic time.
combo	More concepts like this should be introduced around the world."
combo	"I typically don't much enjoy these artificial recreations of heritage villages, but this one was a lot of fun.
combo	The natives clearly enjoyed showing us around and putting on their dance show.
combo	I even got to play some drums myself ...
combo	fun!"
combo	Worth it!
combo	Exceptionally nice people who will spend the time to teach you about their history and culture.
combo	"They all seem like lovely people so I really wanted to like the place, but the way it was organised with weird storytelling felt a bit in your face and awkward.
combo	The banana beer tasting ($5) was cool and the marriage ceremony they make you to go through was funny.
combo	The guy playing music is amazing."
combo	"Great fun for the whole family whilst being a really great cause to support.What they're doing to convert poachers into farmers is terrific.Drumming and dancing,archery,wedding and cultural lessons are among the numerous thought provoking and entertaining activities.The old man is the life and soul of this place and it is worth travelling to Rwanda just to meet him."
combo	"The Iby'lwacu Cultural Village should be visited by anyone coming to the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Not only showcases the village the Rwandan culture, way of living, how to make crafts and traditional dances.
combo	What made it really special for me is that it was established to combat poaching by offering previous poachers an alternative way of making a living.
combo	Having said that, the people working at the Iby'lwacu Cultural Village are ex-poachers and other unprivileged people from the surrounding village.
combo	Visiting the Iby'lwacu Cultural Village is not only very interesting and informative but definitely a project every Volcanoes National Park Tourist should support!"
combo	"Initially, I wasn't sure what the culture village was all about but our great guide Innocent explained all the different huts to us and explained how the culture village came about.
combo	Mist of the people working there are ex-poachers or people with no specific skills.
combo	Edwin and his team taught these people various skills in order to offer them an alternative job to poaching.
combo	At the end, we were given an amazing dance performance, a traditional dance for weddings we were told.
combo	It was truly amazing and was very impressed.
combo	This culture village is a great way to have an insight into the cultural history of Rwanda and a great programme to support."
combo	"This the additional activity after your Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, best way to be in touch with Rwandan Culture."
combo	I went just a few days ago and learned a lot about Rwandan culture and was very happy with my experience as it's a beautiful project employing and empowering the community and providing alternatives from poaching.
combo	I also loved the dances and had fun during my visit.
combo	i like their show about Rwandan culture so much more entrained the do in they culture wish you ll go check
combo	This centre was a great way to learn about the traditional Rwandan culture.
combo	Well done displays.
combo	The interactive parts were hilarious.
combo	Fantastic dancers and drummers.
combo	Highly recommend checking this out if you are in the area.
combo	"You are taken on a tour through Rwandan history in particular the history of changes from people poaching to conservation, many of the people in the centre are reformed poachers.
combo	Interesting sections including the medicine man and banana beer making and the marriage ceremony dancing and singing."
combo	A nice experience to taste the culture of Rwanda.
combo	The place offer traditional dances and showcases the marriage traditions and milk production as well as different music and folkloric arts.
combo	Really enjoyed this.
combo	Learnt heaps about local traditions in a fun and friendly way.
combo	Lovely location as well.
combo	"A visit to the cultural village gives a glimpse of a community that was active in poaching activities.
combo	The presentations at the cultural Centre are educational in terms of traditional life in the village.
combo	The community structure, traditional medicine, dancing, archery, and the shift from poaching to a conservation attitude is well presented."
combo	"The town surrounding Volcanoes National Park where you can see the gorillas has worked to stop poaching and help the community.
combo	If visiting the gorillas in Rwanda, you also MUST visit this cultural village.
combo	You will learn so much.
combo	The volunteers are so friendly and helpful.
combo	When we went, my sister and I were the only ones there and they did it all for us.
combo	It is free but you should definitely leave a tip for the workers and a donation to the village!
combo	It all goes to help the community and to protect the national park and gorillas.
combo	I would love to help more.
combo	Support this amazing effort!
combo	Our safari guide planned our trip here.
combo	You should request it if doing a safari and visiting the gorillas in Rwanda!"
combo	If you are around visit.You will understand the local culture better.The people here are good in telling us their way of life earliar.They offer cheap accommodation here.A local dance show for you also.
combo	"I was running late due to Africa time (When your guide picks you up at a different time to what he says!
combo	: ) ) I was on my own, but I was put with a fun German couple I'd met when we'd seen the Golden Monkeys.
combo	The various little huts really explained the culture and the Medicine Man was very funny (He's also the man at the Blacksmiths!
combo	The dressing up as King, Queen and console was a bit of fun which we were more bemused about, but it was part of the show.
combo	The dancers & musicians were great.
combo	I'd recommend going if you want to learn about the original Rwanda culture."
combo	An interesting and educational visit depicting the results of efforts to eliminate poaching in the Volcanoes National Park.
combo	Numerous aspects of local culture were demonstrated and some involved participation by visitors.
combo	"Most do a day visit en route to the gorilla trek but we stayed overnight and recommended it as you get deeper insights to the village way of life and it's a quiet place to rest recharge amid beautiful setting.
combo	Proceeds support locals who used to be poachers, now in tourism as alternative.
combo	There are about 8 traditional huts and the service is well thought out In the day you witness and participate in traditional dance , showcase of farming, medicine healer, making of banana wine, life of royalty and walk to nearby village.
combo	What we loved most was the interaction at night where apart from singing and dancing you can ask the villagers any questions or vice versa They were so curious about our lives - when we do, marriage practices in our country which was great exchange for everyone.
combo	Dinner was simple but still delightful - boiled vegetables and tea Breakfast comes with eggs bread and cassava The Hot water and pressure was even better than hotels we stayed in and they clean up each time you use the bathroom They provide Hot water bottles and rechargeable lights in the evenings.
combo	Truly highly recommended to stay overnight vs a short day visit in contributing to this meaningful project and a cultural exchange for all."
combo	"Founded by a native Rwandan Game Warden who was appalled by the facts underlying the apprehension of poachers trying to sell a young gorilla for $2000, this center is dedicated to improving the lives of and turning former poachers into dedicated conservationists.
combo	In the process they educate tourists about the history and culture of Rwanda through various performances and demonstrations of several crafts.
combo	I particularly enjoyed the presentations of the medicine man and the banana beer makers."
combo	"Despite being skeptical about it initially (I don't like touristy shows), I warmed up to it and am actually glad we visited this place.
combo	It is well worth it, as you get a very comprehensive overview of the ancient Rwandan culture.
combo	If you can bear the king/queen show (the palace is nice and the cultural bit about the King's consort very interesting), the rest of the tour is really interesting and engaging.
combo	Good hands on experience of the various aspect of a Rwandan village life.
combo	For me, the most invigorating part of this tour was the singing and dancing towards the end.
combo	It was very heart warming, very authentic sounding.
combo	I am a fan of African music, and I found the music really high quality and the dancing really authentic.
combo	This in of itself is worth the visit, as sadly we didn't get to see much of this elsewhere in Rwanda.
combo	The performers seemed really enthusiastic and played there hearts out.
combo	We left them a good tip as it seems this is a great way to sustaIn the local culture while providing livelihood to the folks there who in the past would sometime puruse undesirables activities such as poaching or illegal logging/charcoal making."
combo	"I totally loved this cultural village, which gives a perfect overview of Rwanda's culture and tradition.
combo	The guides took all the time in the world to guide us through this open air museum, which accommodates some very local and interesting stories.
combo	I can only give one recommendation: go and see for yourself.
combo	Entry is $ 20 per person, but I found it worth every cent."
combo	"We loved the experience.
combo	People are really friendly and they explain some of their customs.
combo	Dancers were so vivid.
combo	People were pretty friendly.
combo	Innocent, the guide gave us a detailed information which helped us to understand some key facts of their culture.
combo	I really liked the fact this initiative was created in order to give the community a sustainable alternative to avoid deforestation.
combo	Money goes directly to the community"
combo	"You must visit if you have a spare few hours.
combo	Whilst the King & Queen ceremony is a little cheesy the rest of the village is very interesting with the highlight being the traditional singing and dancing, Most imortantly the income they generate from visitors gives the villagers a sustainable alternative to their previous lives as poachers so please don't hesitate in paying the entry fee, tip generously and buy some curios as well."
combo	"We just completed our trip through beautiful Uganda.
combo	We did a 9 day Safari to Muchurshin Falls NP, Nile River Cruise, Queen Elizabeth NP, Chimp Tracking, and Gorilla Tracking.
combo	Katona Tours had very good communication pre trip, upon arrival our guide Chris took over and delivered a fantastic trip.
combo	He was very kind and knowledgeable.
combo	Chris went above and beyond expectations he knows many of the guides along the way and especially inside the parks.
combo	Because of this he was able to get us very close to see lions and cougars where several people were not able to see them.
combo	Katona Tours arranged a great trip for us and hopefully we will be able to go to Uganda and use them again.
combo	The only complaint I would have is the vehicle desperately needs upgraded.
combo	No AC, Power Windows broken, and the very worst is the vehicle needs NEW SHOCKS!
combo	Please Jackie get these things fixed and I will remove this.
combo	The ride is horrible!
combo	Dispite the poor quality I will still give 5 star mostly because of Chris our guide!"
combo	"Katana Tours was extremely helpful & communicative every step of the way.
combo	On short notice they were able to secure my gorilla permit, provide me with round trip transfer from Kigali, and even provided lunch on the return trip.
combo	The driver was professional, safe, and friendly.
combo	Katana Tours makes the entire process seamless and easy so you don’t need to worry about a thing.
combo	I had several questions along the way, and always received a timeless helpful response.
combo	They check in to make sure all your documents are in order, that your pickup location & time are confirmed, and followed up to ensure you enjoyed your trip and all went smoothly.
combo	I would recommend this for anyone looking for an easy way to see the gorillas (or any other tour Katana offers).
combo	Helpful note: as of January 2023, Volcanos National Park requires a negative PCR test within 72 hours of your visit.
combo	While this is not required anywhere else in Rwanda, it is for visiting the national parks and the gorillas.
combo	Policies continue to change, but keep this in mind when planning your visit.
combo	Katana can update you if this policy changes.
combo	There was only one place in Kigali that does these tests.
combo	The entire process was very fast, it cost $50 USD or 50,000 RWF.
combo	You can access your results usually within 12 to 24 hours on their website.
combo	Print a copy of the results and a copy of your passport to give to your driver who will submit it to the park the day of the tour.
combo	Pickup from Kigali is early (4:30a) to ensure you get to the park on time.
combo	At the park the rangers will split everyone into groups of 7 to be paired with guides and trackers to find your assigned gorilla family.
combo	Your driver will bring you to the hike starting point, and will pick you up from the hike end point.
combo	The vehicle was very comfortable and clean.
combo	I did the 1 day trek, and I was back at my hotel by 4:30pm, a total of 12 hours.
combo	Timing can vary depending how long it takes to locate the gorilla family (and if you experience traffic, but there are very few vehicles on the road between the 2 points).
combo	There are many operators offering this service, but Katana came with a lot of positive reviews and offered the one day trek.
combo	They provided exactly what I needed and I recommend them to anyone."
combo	"The experience on the gorilla tour in the Impenetrable Forest with Katona tours was incredible..we got close up to the gorillas with the support of the forest guides.
combo	Our tour included a day bird watching with Kenneth our guide from Katona who is very knowledgeable about the forest birds.
combo	We also saw Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and baboons.
combo	We were upgraded to the beautiful Bakiga Lodge which has spectacular views."
combo	"We just completed our tour starting in Rwanda, visiting Genocide Memorial before being transferred to Uganda to visit the gorilla's in Bwindi.
combo	We really wanted to see both attractions, but with the permits being cheaper in Uganda it ended up more cost effective for us.
combo	Our guide Kenneth was great, waited for us outside the airport and taught us so much about Rwanda and Uganda along the way.
combo	We stopped at a local place Kenneth knew for lunch and it was delicious!
combo	Kenneth was previously a gorilla ranger so he knew about the different groups and was an asset to have.
combo	Seeing the scenery along the way was fantastic.
combo	Jackie was also very helpful during the booking progress and made sure everything ran smoothly.
combo	She even organised us a free upgrade, thank you Jackie that was brilliant!
combo	The border crossing does take a considerable amount of time and this was the only downfall, but the tour still outweighed this, giving us a great chance to see both countries.
combo	Katona was fantastic and I would book with them again."
combo	"I had such a great experience doing the 2 day Rwanda gorilla trekking tour.
combo	Valens was my driver/guide and he’s very friendly and a very safe driver.
combo	Katona Tours was always on top of everything needed, like the PCR test requirement in order to enter Volcanoes.
combo	Before I went to the Genocide Museum, I was taken to a testing site which was so much more convenient than having to get there on my own before the tour.
combo	The price was very reasonable, Jackie always responded promptly when I reached out on WhatsApp, and if I’m ever back in Rwanda or Uganda I’ll definitely reach out to Katona Tours again."
combo	"Don't get me wrong, this was an amazing experience.
combo	I can't really give more than 3/5 because this is advertised falsely: it's not a ""two day gorilla trek"", it's one day of transportation and one day of trekking.
combo	You get ONE HOUR with the gorillas.
combo	I guess I didn't read the description well enough, but the headline is still false in my opinion.
combo	Be sure to bring proper gear because it rains a lot and the forest is very thick (I feel like I wasn't really briefed on this, but I enjoyed the challenge.
combo	Others might not.
combo	In any case, my guide Chris the gorilla boy 🦍was great; such a humble, friendly and knowledgeable person.
combo	The communication from Katona was swift.
combo	The lodge where I stayed was very cool with a fireplace, good food and friendly staff."
combo	Amazing tour with an amazing guide Ceaser I was very well taken care of and had a super fantastic time!
combo	"It was one of the best travel experiences I have ever had.
combo	I organized my trip from Chile communicating with Katona Tours by WhatsApp.
combo	The attention was excellent, fast and always willing to offer me the best options in quality, price and destinations.
combo	My tour was for 7 days between Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	Day 1-2: I met my excellent and highly recommended guide Cris (Cris Gorilla Boy).
combo	The first day we went to the genocide memorial in Kigali (Rwanda) then we left for Uganda in a very comfortable 4x4 van.
combo	We crossed the border without any problems and headed to Bwindi National Park to see Mountain Gorillas.
combo	Cris during the tour of about 5 h explained me everything, showed me the scenery and told me anecdotes.
combo	It was very entertaining.
combo	I paid the cheapest accommodation but thanks to Ketona and Cris they upgraded me to some amazing cabins (see pictures) next to a local village.
combo	The food was amazing and the service was even better.
combo	The next day early in the morning we went to see the gorillas with a group of 6 people and the experience was magical and unique.
combo	Day 3-4: We headed to Queen Elizabeth Park for two exciting days of safari.
combo	We arrived at the park and the whole safari was together with Cris touring the majestic savannah of Uganda.
combo	It was a 4 hour tour where I saw a lot of animals.
combo	Cris is known all over the world so he had a network of contacts with other guides who would let him know where we could see animals.
combo	It was very exciting.
combo	At nightfall we went looking for elephants and arrived at our hotel.
combo	Which was wonderful because they were fully equipped tents with beds and everything we needed.
combo	I slept very close to hippos and buffaloes, a unique experience.
combo	The next day we went to continue our safari and returned to the hotel.
combo	Day 5: The next destination was to go to see chimpanzees in a wonderful reserve, one of the best forests I've ever been, with bird sounds everywhere and various species of birds and vegetation.
combo	We were accompanied by a guide, who was explaining everything about the site and the characteristics of chimpanzees, biology, ecology and conservation.
combo	It was very entertaining and after about 2 hours we found them.
combo	After several photos we left for Kigali.
combo	Day 6-7: Already in Kigali after a quiet trip between Uganda and Rwanda I stayed in a very comfortable hotel in the city with good food, where I could rest and recover energy.
combo	The next day Cris picked me up and we started our last stretch to Akagera National Park.
combo	During the tour Cris was explaining me everything and to my surprise on my last night of the tour they put me up in a better hotel than I had paid for, right next to the entrance of the park.
combo	The safari was with Cris in his 4x4 was incredible all day safari from 6 am to 6 pm.
combo	With an incredible boat ride where I saw a lot of animals.
combo	Then we returned to Kigali (3 hours) and I was dropped off at my hotel which had cancelled my reservation but Cris was wonderful and took me to find another hotel.
combo	Overall the experience was unique and I recommend it to everyone who can do it.
combo	Ketona and Cris are the best.
combo	Be sure to plan your trip with them, you will enjoy it 100%."
combo	"Had the most beautiful experience booked through Katona tours.
combo	I went for the 1-day trip to visit the Mountain Gorillas from Kigali to the Volcanoes park.
combo	Valens, the amazing driver and great company was supportive, clear in communication and always on time.
combo	He picked me up at 4:30 from my accommodation and we drove to the park HQ for registration.
combo	The gorilla trip itself with guide Emmanuel was the most incredible experience I have ever had!
combo	We went in a small group and trekked a family of 20 gorillas.
combo	It was simply amazing and almost unreal.
combo	After the trekking, Valens picked me up and we had a great lunch together before making our way back to Kigali.
combo	He held me company as I was on a solo trip and told me a lot of great things about Rwanda and the gorillas.
combo	Also a massive thank you to Jackie for her support and quick responses.
combo	Without a doubt I recommend this trip and booking with Katona in general, I will do everything I can to do this trip again."
combo	"Our family of four adults just returned from a nine-day tour of Kigali and Uganda with Katona Tours, and we cannot praise the experience enough!
combo	Jackie, who runs the show, was a pleasure to deal with.
combo	All questions were answered promptly and to the point.
combo	I will also point our her patience, since I bombarded her with emails, and we had to delay our trip by a year due to Covid.
combo	The accommodations she booked for us were very good and often in breathtakingly beautiful locations.
combo	Our guide-driver, Kenneth, was fantastic.
combo	He is kind, extremely knowledgeable and bent over backwards to optimize our experience.
combo	A former ranger himself, he is well known among the ranger and tracking crowd, and made great efforts to make sure we were assigned top-notch staff to accompany us during our gorilla, chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking in Bwindi, Kibale and Mgahinga parks, respectively.
combo	While in the Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks, he went far beyond the call of duty to make sure we had a rich variety of encounters with the many forms of wildlife.
combo	We also appreciated his recommendation of a community tour to get a better sense of life in rural Uganda.
combo	Uganda is an exceptionally beautiful country with so much to see and do.
combo	We cannot recommend it enough as a destination, and encourage everyone to experience it through Katona Tours."
combo	"Had the most awesome experience.
combo	Starting with the driver who picked me up from my hotel and drove me from Rwanda to Uganda.
combo	The hotel accommodations provided there in Uganda was so beautiful and breathtaking, I wish I could’ve stayed there longer than a day.
combo	The trekking to see the gorillas was so amazing.
combo	The guides, the trackers and the supporters were so helpful.
combo	I hired a helper for $20 and I’m so thankful I did.
combo	The trail was so wet I kept slipping, but my helper was there to help keep me standing as I moved along.
combo	On the return back up the mountain it was great to have that extra push on my back to help me up the hill.
combo	Going down and slipping was one thing but going back up was a whole other challenge for me.
combo	Thankful for the helper and the other guards who were very patient with me as I took multiple breaks to rest for a few seconds to lower my heart rate, catch my breath as I climbed back up.
combo	The gorillas were so much fun to watch in their element.
combo	The baby was hilarious to watch playfully."
combo	"After a long wait due to covid restrictions we finally we able to go to our gorilla trek in late July.
combo	The wait was worth it.
combo	Jacqueline was great to work with and was very patient during our rescheduling.
combo	Our driver Kenneth was prompt and very knowledge.
combo	He made arrangements for us to see a wonderful gorilla family only an hour hike.
combo	The accommodations were great, clean with outstanding service.
combo	Would highly recommend Katona"
combo	"Just finished 5 days tour in Uganda to Bwindi national park, Bunyonyi lake and Mgahinga national park with the gorilla boy (Chris!
combo	that made our trip exceptional and flawless.
combo	Chris and the team made our dream come true, and made sure that everything goes according to plan."
combo	"I was travelling to Kigali for work, but I also wanted to experience the country.
combo	Upon doing my research, I stumbled across Katona tours and travel.
combo	When doing the booking, I would recommend every at least European person to just trust the process.
combo	Pretty much everything was handled on WhatsApp, which made the contact really easy.
combo	The journey itself was wonderful and I had such an amazing experience, which I will always remember.
combo	My drivers, Adam and Daniel were extremely kind, happy and cool.
combo	I would recommend this journey to everyone looking for an authentic, but super impressive experience.
combo	Thank you for giving me this exclusive memory!!!
combo	*Please just wear hiking equipment, other than sneakers and jeans.
combo	Quite an easy fix actually..."
combo	"Can’t express how amazing the tour was.
combo	The itinerary was perfect for us (thank you Jackie) and the accomodation was great too.
combo	Caesar, as a guide was professional, but moreso made our trip.
combo	His knowledge and expertise was exceptional and we are happy we were able to share such amazing memories with him.
combo	We can’t wait to come back!"
combo	Thank you Katona Tours for making this last minute trip a experience of a lifetime.
combo	I had the best tour guide ever in Chris “the gorilla boy” Ngabilano who was a wealth of knowledge in the field and the history of Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	If you’re reading this and thinking about trekking with Katona do it you won’t regret it.
combo	"Excellent service and incredible experience.
combo	Jackie was always accessible and prompt in communication as we arranged a 6-day Uganda trip only about one week in advance.
combo	Our guide Ceasar was hugely knowledgeable about all of the parks we visited and had answers to all of our questions about the many animals we saw (including the full Big 5 + giraffes!
combo	), having worked for five years as a national park ranger.
combo	We absolutely recommend Katona for anyone considering a trip with them."
combo	"We spent 2 days trekking in Bwindi Uganda with Kenny as our guide.
combo	We were picked up in Kampala for a long drive to the national park.
combo	We stayed at Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge witch was an amazing place.
combo	Definitely 5 stars.
combo	Our guide Kenny was amazing.
combo	Very knowledgeable with 20 years working as a ranger in national parks.
combo	Katona Tours arranged everything and every step of the process was well planned.
combo	Each day with the Gorillas was different.
combo	1 day the Gorillas we’re laying around and we watched them rest and the kids play.
combo	The 2nd day we saw a different group with 2 silverbacks that was on the move and we covered a lot of territory as they foraged on the move.
combo	Both days were amazing.
combo	I highly recommend Katona Tours, Kenny and Kiho Lodge."
combo	"We booked a ten day safari with Katona Tours and everything was far better than we had even hoped for.
combo	Our guide, Kennith, waws amazing!
combo	His encyclopedic knowledge of all things Uganda was impressive to say the least.
combo	He went out of his way on several occasions to insure that we had the best possible experience.
combo	We were mere feet from the gorillas and chimpanzees!!
combo	The lady in the office, Jacqueline, was exceptional, going so far as responding to messages in a very timely manner even though they were from ten time zones away so often in the middle of the night.
combo	She was able to roll with all the questions and changes in our itinerary with no problem.
combo	I would highly recommend this company.
combo	I just cannot say enough good things."
combo	Getting up close and personal to the Gorillas to a point.
combo	Kenneth was very helpful and friendly!
combo	Katona tour was very cooperative with my situation!
combo	I would recommend highly recommend them!
combo	"I had an awesome experience with Katona Tours for a one day gorilla trek in Rwanda at Volcanoes National Park and one day safari in Akagera National Park.
combo	Jackie was so quick to respond and helpful with all my questions and Kenneth my guide was really great and knowledgeable.
combo	Kenneth previously worked as a park ranger with gorillas in Uganda so you likely won’t find a better guide for gorilla trekking anywhere.
combo	He provided me with a ton of knowledge about gorillas, Rwanda, and East Africa both before and after my trek.
combo	I tracked the Kwitonda gorilla group at Kenneth’s recommendation and they were a unique and rewarding group to track that offered just the right amount of challenge to get to.
combo	I had an amazing time viewing the gorillas as the pictures show.
combo	Then the next day we went to the other end of Rwanda to see Akagera National Park where I saw lots of elephants, giraffes, zebra, and much more.
combo	It was a truly unforgettable experience throughout both of my tours with Katona."
combo	"I could never imagined a more perfect experience!
combo	Celebrating my 60th Birthday trekking for Gorillas was monumental.
combo	Our time trekking Volacanoes National Park to spend time with an amazing family of Gorillas was SURREAL and EM0TIONAL: majestic, powerful and gorgeous specimens.
combo	Katona Tours (Jacqueline) made this experince happen thru great communication and molding the tour to our needs.
combo	Every step of the way from providing pickup service from Kigali to our road journey and lodge stay.
combo	The assistance and direction of Kenneth one of our guides was priceless.
combo	Kenneth was forthcoming with great historical, cultural and geographical information that gave our group of 3 a much clearer respect for our surroundings.
combo	The kindness and service at our Lodge created an environment that allowed us to not focus on anything but our intended experiences.
combo	Our trekking guide Dr G created a very safe and actully fun trek up the mountain.
combo	We were instructed on the respect/protocals for existing in the Gorillas habitat and felt very much a part of their daily experice.
combo	Thank You Katona Tour and Travel!"
combo	"I took a last minute 1-day tour to Lake Mburo with Katona tours.
combo	Jackie, head of Katona was expedient and responsive by email and gave a detailed review of the potential itinerary and costs.
combo	Payment was easy online (worth noting that this incurs a ~4% additional charge though).
combo	My guide, Paul, was very knowledgeable, especially about birdlife.
combo	He was also professional and attentive from first to last.
combo	We saw some superb fauna including abundant zebra, warthogs, and giraffe.
combo	Mburo park itself was not busy and so we were able to enjoy things peacefully, especially at watering holes where we saw hippo, waterbuck, and topi.
combo	The lunch was superb.
combo	The afternoon boatride around the lake itself was excellent.
combo	A different guide was on the boat, who works for the park authorities rather than Karona, who gave really useful information and was also attentive.
combo	Around the lake we saw sandpipers, Pied Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, Forest Kingfisher, Fish Eagles, crocodiles, babboons, warthog, and waterbuck.
combo	The hippos were magnificent in the lake itself and very vocal, which was great!
combo	Thanks Jackie, Paul, and team!
combo	It's worth being aware of approximate timings if going from Kampala: 6am hotel pick up, 10.30am arrive at the national park, 11am-1pm game drive, 1-2pm lunch, 2-4pm Lake Mburo cruise, 4-9pm travel back to Kampala.
combo	So it is a long day and you'll need to ensure you have breakfast/dinner sorted either side (not provided by Katona)."
combo	"Experience of a lifetime I truly enjoyed the gorilla trek experience and the lodge we stayed in which was Rushaga Gorilla lodge was one in a kind!
combo	The views and the room totally surpassed my expectations and it felt luxurious in that kind of experience.
combo	The drive from entebbe to rushaga was a good 23 hours but our driver, Mr Kenneth was a big expert not only in driving but also about gorillas and gave us a lot of information and the drive did not feel tiring at all.
combo	We saw a family of 6 gorillas and the rangers were really helpful so we all get an equal opportunity to click pictures and view the gorillas.
combo	Even at the lodge the staff were all so friendly and chatty did not feel bored at all.
combo	The next day I had to reach kampala early and Mr Kenneth did a good job reaching us on time.
combo	I have never met Jackie but I already see a friend in her.
combo	She is so helpful and kind and when booking she even spoke to my mom really well and helped us make a good decision.
combo	Even when it came to changing dates for the permit she was very patient and assisting.
combo	I felt very warm and touched by the planning and services of Katona.
combo	Feels like a family in Uganda now!!"
combo	"Trekking in Uganda is cheaper than Rwanda and safer than Congo so I chose to do this In Uganda.
combo	I booked the trek through Katona Tours and Travel who purchased a permit for me.
combo	Then, I was put in a group of 5 with other tourists.
combo	The locals greeted us with a traditional dance where I joined in - I loved the dance!
combo	We were then given a briefing by the ranger who shared the family of gorillas we will be spending time with.
combo	I felt safe because we had park rangers and armed rangers who were very helpful.
combo	We set off on foot to trek, it takes a good level of fitness to trek in the park but it is possible.
combo	There is also a stretcher at an additional cost where you can be carried by the local workers.
combo	It took 2 hours to reach the gorilla family and approx.
combo	2 hours to return to the starting point including rests and a lunch break (time taken can vary).
combo	Once you finish the trek, there is a graduation ceremony and you will receive a certificate!
combo	I did a lot of research prior to my trip to Uganda as it was the first time I would be travelling solo to a new continent - Africa.
combo	I chose to travel with Katona Tours and Travel after reading many positive reviews.
combo	The driver, Kenneth was very knowledgeable about the history, wildlife and culture of Uganda.
combo	I would highly recommend requesting Kenneth as your driver if you are planning a trip.
combo	Katona Tours and Travel provided me with different itineraries and answered questions promptly.
combo	I first chose the budget stay itinerary then after deciding to stretch my budget, I went for the mid range (there is also an option for luxury stay at a higher price).
combo	The cost included both gorilla and chimpanzee permit, full board accommodation (meals included), bottled water, full-time English speaking guide/driver, airport transfer, park entry fees and the cost of activities I took part in for example the Launch cruise on Kazinga Channel and the game drive.
combo	Visas, drinks, tips, laundry, PCR test fee, telephone, personal insurance and personal purchases are excluded from the cost of the tour package.
combo	Overall, it was a great experience and I will definitely be returning to visit other areas of Uganda with Katona Tours and Travel!
combo	:)"
combo	"Katana helped in organizing a highlights tour of Uganda, from Kampala to Murchisson Falls, Kibale Forest (Chimpanzee tracking), Biwindi Forest (Gorilla Trekking), Mount Muhavura, Lake Bunyonyi, … Everything went perfect & on schedule, they even helped me after I had lost my luggage in an international flight transfer.
combo	The tour gave me a great overview of Uganda, a beautiful, diverse and most welcoming country where you could spend weeks visiting and getting to know its culture.
combo	Special kudos to my guide Kenneth who’s been amazing, he knows his country upside down and was giving all of the great tips I could have wished for.
combo	For everything, the great moments of joy and memories, thanks a lot to Katona Tours."
combo	"Jackie from Katona tours did an excellent job communicating, arranging and accommodating our needs.
combo	We spent 2 nights at the Best Western Premier Garden Hotel in Entebbe on our own (great staff, super location, local market, walk to Lake Victoria restaurants, very safe) then flew to Bwindi where Kenneth picked us up.
combo	Jackie arranged for us to stay at The Sanctuary Gorilla Camp even though it was not one of the companies they usually work with.
combo	It was excellent by the way) Next day we were blown away by our amazing gorilla trek, where we spent an hour up close and personal with about 20 gorillas from our designated gorilla family.
combo	Words cannot describe this experience, it was so amazing, almost spiritual, but definitely something we will never forget.
combo	After another night at The Sanctuary (best masseuse on staff there, I forget her name, but best ever!
combo	Next morning we flew back to Entebbe and then on to Nairobi to join our safari.
combo	Everything seemed seamless, despite all the challenges.
combo	It was Soooo worth it and our favorite day out of our 3 week trip!
combo	Thank you Jackie, Kenneth and the wonderful Ugandan people."
combo	"We asked Katona Tours to organize a customized to fit our needs round trip from Entebbe with Rwenzori trekking, Gorillas, small safari and other activities.
combo	We are absolutely pleased with the quality of the organization by Jackie: from transportation and meals to hotels/lodges and activities.
combo	Would like to specially note the help of our guide Heidi who supported us through out the trip - helping with local SIM-card and communication with locals, driving carefully and along the best scenery routes with interesting comments on the way (regarding wildlife and birds, local traditions and culture etc.
combo	and help at the stops.
combo	Even later when the trip with Katona tours ended and we had some days for self-organized activities, Heidi helped us to organize fast PCR testing to save time before the flight.
combo	The experience with Katona tours is highly recommended and it's also good value for money compared to some other companies.
combo	Thanks again to Jackie and Heidi from Katona tours.
combo	Lana & Vladimir."
combo	"I traveled to Uganda with my friend August 2021.
combo	We are two women and felt perfectly safe at all times.
combo	Kenneth Muhindi was our fantastic guide!
combo	He knew everyone and made sure we had rangers/guides that were experts that would trek at our speed.
combo	Jackie of Katona Tours was excellent and made great suggestions for lodges.
combo	She took care of everything for us.
combo	She responded promptly to all my hundreds of questions!
combo	I was a little nervous wiring the funds but Katona Tours is definitely a legitimate and well run local Ugandan company.
combo	We chose the first class lodges and they we absolutely beautiful and spotless clean with excellent food choices.
combo	The Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, and Chimpanzees in the mountain forests were amazing to see close up and an unforgettable experience.
combo	We always felt safe.
combo	We also saw zebras, a lioness with two cubs, leopard, giraffes, warthogs, water Buffalo, hippos, elephants, baboons, many species of beautiful monkeys, birds and crocodiles.
combo	The Land Cruiser was comfortable with the bumpy roads.
combo	Kenneth was an excellent driver.
combo	He worked in the various parks for 15 years so he knew exactly where to find the various animals.
combo	He also showed us the different villages.
combo	Feel free to contact me with questions..."
combo	"We are 2 female friends in our 50s and we had an outstanding experience in Uganda trekking gorillas, golden Monkeys, and chimpanzees in the mountain forests and well as sightseeing game drives on the savannas sighting zebras, lions, leopard, giraffes, warthogs, water Buffalo, hippos, elephants, baboons, and several species of monkeys, birds and reptiles.
combo	We spent 12 days with our tour guide Kenneth Muhindi.
combo	He picked us up from the airport at 11:30 pm, took us to our hotel in Entebbe.
combo	The next day we drove 6 hours driving west toward the mountains where we spent many hours in the Land Cruiser safari vehicle navigating Uganda’s narrow bumpy unpaved roads.
combo	Kenneth was an excellent tour guide with 15 years experience as a professional game ranger in the forests.
combo	He knows where the animals arms he knows the other rangers you trek with.
combo	He made sure we were paired with wonderful rangers and porters to make our treks perfect for us.
combo	Each day he made sure we were comfortable and on time for the various activities.
combo	He accommodated our requests and gave good suggestions.
combo	Kenneth is a great driver and made us feel safe at all times.
combo	He is well respected among the other guides.
combo	When we encountered them, they were always friendly and complimentary of him.
combo	I advise anyone going on this trip to pack light.
combo	Our Hotels provided free or inexpensive laundry service.
combo	Stay hydrated.
combo	Bring a small light backpack for the actual trek.
combo	Prepackaged snacks come in handy and are nice to share with porters and guides.
combo	When trekking hire a porter.
combo	Price is $15 usd plus tip.
combo	Tip at least that much or more.
combo	They are worth it and will make your trek much better.
combo	Tip all the people on the trek (the ranger, the trackers, porters and armed guards) and any other service people.
combo	Kenneth found the local forex places with the best exchange rates and changed our dollars for Ugandan shillings in small denominations.
combo	At the time we went, 10,000 Ugandan shillings = about $3.
combo	Clothing: comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, hiking boots and socks, loose light hiking pants with pockets (not yoga pants or jeans) long sleeve and short sleeve shirts a light hooded waterproof jacket that fits in small backpack for quick rainfall events.
combo	Weather is generally pleasant but can be chilly at night in mountains and warm on a sunny day.
combo	Bring a pack or 2 of hand wipes for quick clean ups in the dusty terrain.
combo	Kenneth has spray sanitizer in the vehicle at all times.
combo	At the end, lighten your load and make room for souvenirs by giving your unused items to the local staff and guides.
combo	We gave away shampoo, lotions, conditioner, snacks, hand wipes, clothing, socks, shoes, even the small trek backpack … all kinds of things that they can use and we can easily replace at home.
combo	It was very appreciated."
combo	"After two years of Covid interrupted planning my wife and I finally made it to Uganda.
combo	It was all that could be expected and more.
combo	The credit goes to Katona Travel.
combo	Jackie, who runs the company responded to every email I sent her in prompt fashion.
combo	She made sure all our needs were met, and anticipated things that we didn’t think of.
combo	For example we travelled with medication that needed refrigeration.
combo	She made sure all the lodges we visited could either store it or provide us with a mini fridge.
combo	As far as the lodges she picked she couldn’t do better.
combo	The worst one was good, the best one was absolutely incredible.
combo	The safari vehicle she provided was like a tank with out a gun.
combo	Believe me you will appreciate it when you get on some of those unsaved mountain roads.
combo	When we were in country, she phoned us twice to make sure everything was running smoothly.
combo	Our trip went without a hitch, and for those of you have travelled you know there will always be at least one hitch.. Unto our guide, Caesar.
combo	Everyone who travels knows the importance of a good guide.
combo	We got one.
combo	Caesar is knowledgeable, entertaining and super fun to be with.
combo	The three of us got along like best buds for nine days.
combo	Plus I think Caesar knows half of Uganda.
combo	Often, we would hear Caesar talking in a language we didn’t understand to someone , then hear a laugh and suddenly we were in front of a line or getting an incredible view of something.
combo	Overall I can’t recommend Katona enough.
combo	PS .
combo	If anyone reading this has a question, feel free to contact me, I’ll get back to you"
combo	"We have booked a 12 days trip at the company Katona Tours and don’t regret it at all!!
combo	We had the great support of Jackie to create a personalized itinerary fitting to what we wanted to see.
combo	We booked the trip only few weeks before flying but she was available through messages and phone at any time to answer all our questions (and we had a lot!!).
combo	On arrival and during the trip, she checked regularly that we were doing fine!
combo	At arrival in Entebbe, we met with our guide Kenneth.
combo	He is probably the person who made this trip so special to us.
combo	He is an experienced guide who was a Rangers in different parks for 12 years in his previous life.
combo	He knows so much about his country, the wildlife and nature in general.
combo	He was always on time, driving very carefully, wearing masks and sanitize his hands all the time.
combo	We felt really safe.
combo	He has a great network basically at all the places we went.
combo	He got good information on where to spot which animal and useful information that we would never get as tourist.
combo	He supported us getting to ATM, pharmacy, doing the PCR test.
combo	We are very grateful to had him as a guide.
combo	Regarding the lodge, we took the middle range option.
combo	All Lodges were very good.
combo	Food was great, bed and room Comfortable and clean.
combo	We have been doing safari in different parks : Murchison, Queen Elisabeth, Lake Mburo.
combo	We have done as well the chimpanzee trekking and gorilla trekking.
combo	All this trip will remain beautiful memories !!!
combo	We would highly recommend Katona Tours and would not hesitate to use it for our future trips.
combo	If you get the chance to request Kenneth as a guide, don’t hesitate you will not regret it."
combo	"Katona was amazing to plan our trip to Uganda post-Covid.
combo	We spent a week travelling all around Uganda with one of my friend and Jackie helped us planning this really well!
combo	We got quite lucky to see everything we wanted to see!
combo	Kenneth, our guide, was really knowledgeable and nice with you.
combo	It was lots of drive to cover the plan but that was planned and hotels were quite comfortable even though we chose the cheap option 😊.
combo	Thanks Katona for the trip!"
combo	So my husband and I decided to visit Uganda this week from the USA for the gorilla tracking .I started arranging the trip two months ago a little nervous due to the COVID-19 restrictions.Jackie did such a wonderful job reassuring me and communicating with me all the way through the process and even days after the tour she continued to stay in touch with me to see if I needed anything.
combo	Mr. Kenneth Mohindi was our driver and guide.
combo	He was so knowledgeable about everything in Uganda and he made our experience unforgettable.
combo	Please use their service as they are truly wonderful and native Ugandan.
combo	"We had an amazing 11 day safari with Katona tours.
combo	From when i started planning this trip with Jackie over 1 year ago, she was very responsive and helpful in answering my emails and handling all my requests prior to travel.
combo	We landed in Entebbe Airport on 9th and were met by our guide Kenneth and headed to Murchisson Falls National Park for a 3 night stay, Queen Elizabeth National Park for 2 nights and finally did the Gorilla trek in Bwindi staying at Rushaga Gorilla lodge.
combo	We added a day in Entebbe to visit Mabamba for a shoebill tour which also turned out to be a great idea, saw the shoebill for the first time.
combo	The whole trip was flawless and Ken was very knowledgeable and all the accommodation facilities were really nice more than we expected.
combo	Our experience was incredible and i would travel again with Katona tours.
combo	Do not hesitate to contact them for a memorable travel experience."
combo	"Jackie and Valens from Katona Tours made our 2-weeks trip in Rwanda unforgettable :) We visited almost all the parts of the country and saw all the most interesting things you can find there, including chimpanzees in Nyungwe forest, kayaking on Kivu lake, gorillas in Volcanoes park, safari in Akagera park.
combo	In was really amazing.
combo	I'd like to say special thanks to Jackie for being very flexible in resolving our problems during the trip.
combo	Everything was organised on a very high level.
combo	I strongly recommend Katona Tours."
combo	"Katona tours provided the perfect organization of our tour in Rwanda during the pandemics.
combo	The company arranged excellent logistics and we felt comfortable.
combo	We’ve visited 5 Volcanos Park meeting the gorilla’s family in the mountain jungles, looked for the chimpanzees in Nyungwe Park, and did Akagera safari with walking hippos.
combo	The beautiful 3-days kayaking tour on the Kivu lake was unforgettable: with monkeys jumping in kayaks, swimming cows, and overnight stay on the island.
combo	The journey was completely safe and well-organized.
combo	Thanks to our driver Valens for his care and skillful riding.
combo	I plan to return and travel with Katona tours in Uganda and Congo."
combo	"My partner and I could not speak more highly of the Katona Tour and Travel company!
combo	We originally contacted them for a single day gorilla trek experience, but they ended up helping us organize a full 4 days in Rwanda!
combo	The staff and driver were so accommodating, friendly, quick to respond, and knowledgeable about the area.
combo	We spent the first day gorilla trekking, then drove south to Lake Kivu for a day of biking, and then continued down to Nyungwe National park for some amazing nature hikes and tea plantation tour.
combo	The accommodations they selected for us were some of the best stays of our lives!
combo	It was so effortless, as everything from meals to activites was organized for us we were able to relax and enjoy beautiful Rwanda.
combo	Would HIGHLY recommend to anyone looking for an adventure of a lifetime - whether you already have an itinerary in mind or you would like them to sculpt one for you."
combo	"I organised this a short notice and was lucky that the team at Katona was flexible to my requests.
combo	All in all, an excellent holiday."
combo	"We had limited free time and definitely wanted to see the mountain gorillas while we were in Rwanda.
combo	After learning of the large price differential between trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC, we decided to save a bit of cash (while still being safe) and seek out a one day trek to Uganda.
combo	Katona Tours & Travel offered the least expensive option for us.
combo	I didn't find many reviews on the one day experience, so I wasn't sure what to expect.
combo	Our day went as follows.
combo	Our driver, Valens, picked us up from our hotel at 4 a.m. and we drove about 3 hours to the country line where we followed a multi-step process to cross the border.
combo	It was a bit confusing, but everyone was friendly and told us what to do.
combo	It took about 20 minutes total.
combo	Then we drove to the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
combo	The absolute worst part of the trip was the drive from the highway to the National Park on an unpaved, rutted road.
combo	Valens was a terrific driver and did all he could to spare us the bumps on the road, but they were unavoidable.
combo	The drive from the highway to the National Park took at least 30 minutes.
combo	When we arrive to the National Park, Valens transferred us over to the park representatives and we started our trek.
combo	My companion hired a porter who promised to carry her stuff and push/pull her as necessary.
combo	I went without a porter.
combo	At the end, we were both happy with our decisions.
combo	We are active middle aged women in average shape.
combo	The trek wasn't terribly difficult although it was steep from time to time.
combo	The terrain was uneven, and there were many prickly plants and branches.
combo	It wasn't terrible, but I definitely recommend thick pants and long-sleeve shirts.
combo	We hiked 5.5 miles to see the gorillas, which took about 4 hours.
combo	We spent an hour with the gorillas and saw most of the family group - I think we missed seeing one female.
combo	The one issue we had was arriving at high noon - the gorillas were retreating into the bushes for cover from the sun.
combo	But the gorilla minders cleared the way for us to follow them.
combo	It was really amazing how close we got to the gorillas and how they just stared at us, and even brushed right by us.
combo	We jumped the fence near where the gorillas were after our hour was up and hiked back towards the Visitor's Center on easier terrain.
combo	We were asked if we had lunches, but we only had snacks, so we stopped briefly to have those.
combo	We walked about 2 more hours, and then reached a road where our driver could meet us.
combo	Once we got back into the car, we drove over the rutted, unpaved road again, and then back to the the Uganda border.
combo	Then we drove a little while in Rwanda.
combo	At 4 p.m. we stopped for lunch at a cafe that catered to tourists.
combo	The meal was long overdue, so it was fine for us.
combo	We arrived back at our hotel around 7 p.m.
combo	It was definitely a long day, but a definitely a once in a lifetime experience!
combo	We thought Katona Tours did a good job with communicating with us, and we really appreciated our driver Valens.
combo	I recommend this experience, although I think it would be better spread out over 2-3 days if you have the time."
combo	"**Gorilla photography advice at the end** The most agreeable part of trip with Katona was my guide, Caesar.
combo	He is truly an intelligent, patient man and a very friendly character.
combo	There was absolutely nothing at any point that was less than professional about the service he provided.
combo	He is also a wealth of information and is an excellent resource if you are considering further trips into the region.
combo	If you choose to travel with Katona I highly recommend that you request Caesar as your guide.
combo	My dealings with the office were a little more complex.
combo	There were a few things but the most important one came with the portion of the tour booked into the Virunga National Park in the DRC.
combo	Katona confirmed and sold me a tour upon which I booked my flight.
combo	It was after this that I received an email from Katona that started off with ‘As you know’ and proceeded to tell me that things had changed in the park after closure/reopening due to an abduction that happened sometime earlier.
combo	Gorilla treks in the DRC were now scheduled only on certain days and were accompanied by military escort.
combo	As a result, the gorilla trek as sold to me could not take place.
combo	I sent a quick email to the Virunga office and confirmed that this new schedule been the situation since reopening.
combo	So, the issue I have with ‘As you know’ is that no.
combo	I shouldn’t know.
combo	The operator who sells the tour should know.
combo	Katona had sold the tour without verifying anything with the Virunga office first.
combo	Katona has a habit of forwarding replies from their supplier when responding and in one such email contained the booking query with the Virunga office.
combo	It was made after my tour was confirmed.
combo	As a result, my tour had to be reworked within the context of my flight and I did not get to do a gorilla trek in the DRC.
combo	One thing that is very important to note here regarding tours to the DRC is that you can book them directly with the Virunga National Park office yourself at a savings over what a Ugandan or Rwandan tour operator will charge.
combo	A Ugandan or Rwandan’s services end with dropping you off at the Virunga NP office.
combo	They take no part in your tour after that point unless you are continuing your tour with them after visiting the DRC.
combo	The only benefit you are receiving by booking tours in the Virunga NP in the DRC through a Ugandan or Rwandan operator is convenience.
combo	In my case I would have been much better informed had I gone to the Virunga office direct.
combo	Another small issue with my Katona experience is that in booking mid-level accommodations I found them to be lower on the ladder than other Rwandan/Ugandan operator’s mid-level offerings – particularly for the low season.
combo	All of this said I cannot recommend against using Katona.
combo	In the end they still delivered an excellent guide, a capable vehicle, reasonable accommodations and I still had a great time.
combo	I did become quite ill at one point during my trip and they did show a lot of concern in that scenario too.
combo	I would book with Katona again, but I would proceed somewhat more cautiously than previously.
combo	**Gorilla photography** The two treks I did on this tour were #s 10 and 11.
combo	While photographing gorillas I have always found the 70-200 lenses to be my best option.
combo	I carry a standard zoom as well, but it typically sees little use.
combo	It can get very, very dark under the canopy and especially so if it is cloudy so if you do bring the aforementioned 70-200 (or similar) zoom an F/2.8 is your best bet.
combo	On this trip I did hit ISO 12800 on several occasions @ F/2.8 1/60.
combo	It can get dark.
combo	You’re not always going to see those conditions, but it is entirely likely that you will.
combo	A body that handles high ISO well is going to be a big plus.
combo	No tripods or flash allowed.
combo	Thanks for reading."
combo	"From the minute we were picked up to when we were dropped off we had the most fantastic time, perfection.
combo	Uganda is a diverse and beautiful country, not a holiday destination I have thought of before but it is wonderful."
combo	"We had an amazing time trekking gorillas in the bwindi forest, as well as safari and chimp trekking in Lake M’buro and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
combo	Jackie arranged the trip to meet all of our needs with minimal notice.
combo	Our driver/guide throughout, Heidy, was very friendly, provided great service and was very knowledgeable about the wildlife and history of both Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	Highly recommend Katona Tours and Heidy Garry and Ruth"
combo	I organised a history tour together with the gorillas with Katona Tours.
combo	We did several of the historical sites in Rwanda as well as going in to Uganda to do a gorilla trek.
combo	Many people go to this part of the world just to do safari but Katona is more than capable of organising other tours for you.
combo	Kenneth really knew his history and this was clear right from the beginning when he gave me a 45 minute briefing on the history of the genocide before we visited the memorial.
combo	He was a great tour guide and really knew his stuff and had an amazing web of connections all around the areas we visited.
combo	Katona organised an excellent tour for me and the message is that they can do a lot more than safari.
combo	Make sure you see the history of the area as well as the nature.
combo	"We have just finished an incredible 4 days touring Southern Uganda with Richard from Katona tours.
combo	We cannot rate him or the company highly enough.
combo	We contacted them via Facebook messenger only a few weeks before our holiday and they were very responsive and helpful.
combo	On arrival in Kampala Richard picked us up exactly on time and was so friendly and helpful throughout our trip.
combo	Despite the long drives he was always smiling and full of energy.
combo	We did the budget option but the accommodation and meals were excellent!
combo	The gorilla trekking, safari drives, boat tour and chimp trekking were all very fun and well organised.
combo	We have no reservations about recommending this tour company and Richard in particular for any Ugandan holidays you have planned!"
combo	"Had a great tour seeing gorillas in Uganda and hiking Nyiragongo.
combo	I contacted Jackie only a week prior to my trip to Kigali and she found exactly what I was looking for.
combo	My driver/guide throughout, Heidy, provided great service and was very accommodating.
combo	In addition, Heidy knew a lot of the local people at the hotels and attractions that made it a lot easier and convenient.
combo	Hotels and lodges were top notch.
combo	Highly recommend Katona Tours.
combo	Big thanks to Jackie and Heidy!"
combo	"Overall, all on the 4 day tour went fine and all involved were good and flexible.
combo	Especially Innocence on the village walk was very informative, that was very much enjoyed The Da Vinci Lodge was accommodating with extremely service minded staff."
combo	"I truly cant describe how thankful I am for Katona, Jackie, and Paul.
combo	After arriving in Kigali, and discovering my original tour company was a scam, Jackie put together a 7 day tour for me, and included everything I had originally wanted on my 10 day itinerary.
combo	At such short notice, it was incredible she pulled this off.
combo	I was also incredibly lucky with the guide who showed up to pick me up.
combo	Paul was called upon at the last minute as well and dropped everything.
combo	A wonderful guide, with as great a sense of adventure anyone can have, and with the drive for customer satisfaction you won't find anywhere else.
combo	I truly can't put into words how lucky I was in the end, so I'm not going to try to :) The first highlight was the gorilla trekking in Uganda which was in short, fantastic.
combo	I would recommend it to anyone scared away by the price tag, as there is nothing to be scared of across the border.
combo	They allow 7 meters and we only hiked for about 90 minutes.
combo	Special bonus from when one grabbed and pulled at my leg!
combo	The second highlight was climbing mount Nyiragongo.
combo	If you are considering doing it, then do it.
combo	If you don't know what it is, look it up, consider it, and then do it.
combo	There is nothing quite like peering into what you always imagined volcanoes to look like as a kid.
combo	The climb is moderately difficult, but they allow you plenty of time, and once you get to the top it becomes so worth it.
combo	Once again, I would not be concerned with safety in the congo.
combo	You are properly escorted almost immediately from the border crossing, and even so, the people were lovely.
combo	Of course there was more in my 7 days than just these two.
combo	But I think this will take up enough space on TA.
combo	In short, if you are considering Katona, you should be comfortable knowing that everything is going to work out great.
combo	The guides will take care of you (You can always request Paul, if thats a thing), everything will be sorted, and you will be in good hands.
combo	Happy Adventuring!"
combo	"When we were in queen Elizabeth national Park we expected to see more animals, we only saw a leopard (very near), a group of 3 lions far, some antilopes and hippopotamus; not much fun there.
combo	However the cruise in the boat (lake George) was really good, the guide is funny and explain well too.
combo	The hotels and lodges where also great places, good food, comfortable rooms and nature.
combo	The only issue was the energy (lights) in some places.
combo	Also we went to bwindi impenetrable national Park, maybe one of the best things we've done in our lifes, less than 2mts with gorillas.
combo	Finally the driver, Shafiq, was pretty good and polite but not very talkative.
combo	Thanks.
combo	Hope u to have a great experience as we had"
combo	"We had a great time on a two day safari tour of Murchinson Falls!
combo	Our guide, Caesar, made sure we that we saw many animals and made us laugh with his humor.
combo	He also was an excellent and safe driver.
combo	We went on a boat ride where we saw crocodiles, waterbucks, warthogs, baboons and hippos.
combo	Ceasar took us on a game drive where we saw giraffes, lions, elephants, many deer like animals, and monkeys.
combo	Then on the way back we got super close to rhinos.
combo	We will be going again but next time we want to spend three days instead of two."
combo	"We booked a 2 day gorilla tour with Katona tours and found them to be excellent!
combo	I contacted Jackie about 6 months before our tour and she was so helpful with answering all our questions, providing detailed information, and ensuring our gorilla permits.
combo	Our tour ran very smoothly - we wish we had booked for a longer stay!
combo	Our guide Valens was great, he made us feel very comfortable, was always on time, and happy to go out of his way to accommodate extra stops if we asked.
combo	Jackie was kind enough to check in on us during our tour.
combo	The tour itself is amazing, the lodge we stayed at was incredible and the gorillas are definitely a once in a lifetime, must see experience!"
combo	"My father and I signed up for the two day tour to trek and see the gorillas.
combo	Due to poor planning on my part, I booked the trip to depart a day earlier than I should have.
combo	When we landed in Rwanda, our driver Kenneth picked us up at 3am, drove us straight to the forest happily letting us sleep on the way there.
combo	After providing breakfast we took off on the hike and after about 2 hours came upon a family of gorillas.
combo	Both my father and I were in awe of these creatures.
combo	It was an experience unlike anything I ever imagined.
combo	We saw a big father, 3 females, one juvenile, and one baby.
combo	After trekking back down, our driver Kenneth drove us to our hotel.
combo	Yes, due to our poor planning Kenneth put in a 16 hour day and not only didn't complain but was so pleasant and engaging for the entire trip!
combo	I highly recommend this trip and company to anyone going gorilla trekking!
combo	Thank you guys for making our trip so memorable and for allowing us to trek even though we screwed up the dates."
combo	There are many good experiences through out with Katona tours.
combo	But for me the highlight was getting to have Kenneth as my driver/ guide.
combo	Planning the trip went very well.
combo	I have contacted numerous companies for gorilla trekking but Katona was the only company who reply fast and through WhatsApp.
combo	Planning went smooth with Jackie and she was always available to talk and answer my questions.
combo	She was also willing to tailor the way I want the tour to be.
combo	I forgot informing the flight details to come pick me up at the airport but it was done perfectly regardless of my last minutes notice.
combo	I was greeted by Kenneth by his hand written welcome note at the airport.
combo	He explained so well about the genocide memorial and the history.
combo	But what I was so impressed was the knowledge he has for national parks and for animals.
combo	He was working as park rangers for 12 years and he has so much stories to share.
combo	The ride was supposedly long but thank to him and his stories it didn’t feel that long.
combo	He was always willing to do beyond and very attentive.
combo	Gorilla trekking itself went incredible and I am still amazed and still find it hard to process the fact I saw gorillas!
combo	I am so happy that I took a tour with Katona and I’d recommend to everyone.
combo	"My husband and I traveled to Africa for our honeymoon in late November of this year.
combo	To kick things off, we landed in Rwanda and traveled to Uganda with Katona Tours for our two-day gorilla trekking experience.
combo	What an excellent start to our trip!
combo	From the very beginning, when I was looking to book a tour, Jackie was responsive and helpful and she maintained this same level service throughout the entire trip.
combo	We even had some questions about a visa mix-up when we landed in Rwanda and she responded promptly to help us.
combo	Our tour guide was also fantastic and very accommodating.
combo	We had a 4 hour drive from Kigali to our lodge in Uganda and he took care of us the entire way — from stopping for a delicious lunch to patiently waiting and helping us sort out our visa mix-up at the Ugandan border to driving carefully through flooding roads and heavy fog.
combo	We stayed at the Rushaga Gorilla lodge, which was also incredible.
combo	Such friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere and clean rooms.
combo	Not to mention, Bwindi National Forest is filled with so much beauty.
combo	We were provided with all the food and water needed to depart on our gorilla trek the next day, and what a life-changing experience that was!
combo	We trekked the Busingye gorilla family and saw 1 silverback and 1 very small baby, which were the highlights.
combo	It was an incredible experience to trek through the thick forest and brush and all of a sudden come upon these majestic creatures.
combo	We felt safe the entire time and the guides were very knowledgable.
combo	I would absolutely recommend Katona Tours to anyone looking for a wonderful gorilla trekking experience."
combo	"Amazing experience!
combo	Very flexible schedule that can be altered at your wish.
combo	Jackie was very professional and accommodating.
combo	Humphrey was outstanding driver and very knowledgeable guide.
combo	We were able to see Big 5, lots of chimpanzees, hippos as welcome committee at the Bush lodge and elephants walking in for dinner time.
combo	Unforgettable experience and would definitely recommend!!!"
combo	"We booked the gorilla trekking at Katona Tours and Travel.
combo	The communication with Jackie has always been on time, professional and perfect.
combo	We got picked up from our driver Kenneth Muhindi at our hotel at Kabale in the morning.
combo	He took us to Bwindi Impenetrable NP (ca.
combo	1,5-2hrs drive and we've been lucky - Kenneth was able to show us two handsome francolin (Pternistis nobilis) !!!
combo	and brought us back afterwards.
combo	Kenneth is a very professional driver.
combo	You can feel that he's driving for a long time and we felt 100% safe with him.
combo	Moreover, he knows so much not only about the Gorillas for he was working at Bwindi more than ten years but also about all other NP in Uganda and Ruanda, with it's wildlife and nature.
combo	Actually his knowledge and all the information he gave us was enormous.
combo	We visited the Gorilla family with the two Silverbacks, a several females and babies which was awesome!
combo	We will come back for sure and we'd do the Gorillas again.
combo	This was such an impressive experience!
combo	We'd like to book with Katona Tours and Travel again and can highly recommend it.
combo	We've been around Uganda for more than five months and Katona Tours and Travel was the most reliable and most professional tour company we travelled with."
combo	"Our 6 days trip in Rwanda and Uganda with Katona tour was perfect.
combo	Organizing with Jackie was a breeze she let us all the liberty to organize our trip as we pleased while giving great advice and taking care of everything that went over my head.
combo	She is always so fast to answer.
combo	Kenneth was our amazing driver, he went out of his way to pick us up at the airport at 1:30am, his car is reliable well maintained and great for both watching wildlife in safari and crazy muddy tracks around bwindi.
combo	Kenneth in his prior career was a ranger in Uganda bwindi, QE and mt gahinga national parks he knows everybody it seems.
combo	It really helps when it came time to be assigned to our preferred gorilla family for tracking and to find the Ishasha tree climbing lions.
combo	If you are a birder you have to request him !
combo	he seems to have eagle vision and knows all the birds.
combo	We met other tourists that hired a driver and a guide, well Kenneth is both in one, not only he knows his wildlife but also all the history and customs around.
combo	That you want a fully organized package or a looser structure that you can adjust as you go (what we did) we strongly recommend working with Katona and Kenneth.
combo	Of all the company I contacted they were close to the cheapest, they gave realistic feedback so i could adjust my expectation on my itinerary proposal (but did not push me toward any of their partnership 'because they know better' as some other tried to) and communication and paypal payment was easy."
combo	I had a great time going around Uganda with Haidy.
combo	He was really friendly and Jackie was very attentive making sure things were going well on the trip.
combo	I would definitely recommend using them.
combo	Had nice accommodation and the chimps and gorillas were amazing to see
combo	"We had an amazing time Gorilla Trekking with Katona Tours yesterday.
combo	We live in Rwanda and as it is cheaper to visit the gorillas in Uganda, Jackie arranged a 1 day trip for us to and from Uganda to visit the Gorillas in Magahinga Gorilla Park.
combo	We woke up at 4am and were back in Kigali on the same at at 5pm- super easy and comfortable!
combo	Jackie was great a communicating and made sure that we were all set throughout the process.
combo	The gorilla trekking was incredible, really a once in a life experience and we saw many members of the gorilla family we tracked.
combo	After we were done in the park, we drove back to Rwanda and were given a delicious hot lunch at a nice restaurant.
combo	All in all, amazing experience and would definitely recommend speaking with Jackie and using Katona Tours for your gorilla adventures.
combo	She also gave us the best price i was able to find when comparing other agencies."
combo	"I booked this three night, four day trip less than a week in advance recently.
combo	Jackie was very helpful responding quickly by email to help tailor-make the trip to fit my schedule and interests.
combo	Shafiq was my guide and an excellent driver over sometimes tricky roads.
combo	He was also very knowledgeable about the wildlife we saw on the game drive and whilst we were out driving.
combo	He made sure I had everything I needed and I also appreciated Jackie checking in by phone each day to see how things were going.
combo	We saw all kinds of wildlife on the morning game drive and Nile boat trip.
combo	I hiked to the top of Murchison Falls and was also lucky to see many chimpanzees in Budongo Forest and several rhinos in my the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
combo	The guides and rangers were careful to keep us all at a respectful distance from the animals and only to have around an hour in their presence.
combo	I would highly recommend Katona Tours.
combo	Thank you for a great experience!"
combo	"Valence my guide was amazing and Jacquie the organizer very professional.
combo	She organized my trip last minute.
combo	I literally contacted her 24h before my departure.
combo	I was a bit stressed and worried to go there alone but I have no regrets.
combo	I had a tour of Kigali city, genocide memorial, a tour in a local village where I experienced a local wedding ceremony and all Rwandese traditions (so much fun, sweet people), then I stopped in a lodge facing the jungle in Uganda, it was amazing.
combo	The view is spectacular.
combo	Early morning trek in Bwindi was a real experience, so much fun and so well organized.
combo	We saw maybe 10 gorillas that day.
combo	So lucky !
combo	I wish I could have stayed longer coz I was short on time and we did all of that in 2 days.
combo	I definitely recommend you Katona tour, best team ever 💜"
combo	"I booked the 2 day gorilla trek tour in Uganda, with pick-up in Kigali and return the next day.
combo	The service was impeccable from beginnning to end.
combo	This was one of the more affordable options I could find for doing the gorilla trek.
combo	I wuld certainly recommend staying at least one night in Uganda rather than doing it all in one day as it is quite a lengthy (but beautiful) drive.
combo	My driver, Elias, was fantastic, a lot of fun and always had my best interest's at heart.
combo	When I was getting an unfair price at a money exchange on the border, he stepped in and made them give my money back and found me a better rate.
combo	Jackie was extremely responsive through the emails and even phoned twice during the trip to ensure everything was going ok.
combo	The lodge we stayed in was incredible; Rushaga Gorilla Camp.
combo	To be honest, it was far in excess of what I needed.
combo	The area was beautiful and I went for a stroll into the village and met some of the lovely local people.
combo	The next moring we did the trek and it was a wonderful experience to see the gorillas.
combo	Do bring some money with you though, as it is customary to tip the rangers who stay with the gorillas all day protecting them, as well as the rangers who guide you on the trek.
combo	All in all, I had a fantastic experiencve with Katona Tours and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them."
combo	"I booked the trip a night before on WhatsApp.
combo	They were professional and courteous.
combo	When booking the TRIP, I didn't even realise it was a private tour which was a wonderful surprise when the driver arrived.
combo	He took me round Kigali, First to the genocide museum, then the convention centre, to Kimironko Market, to Inema Arts centre and finally to the Nyamata memorial.
combo	As it was a private trip, I could determine how long I wanted to spend in each location which was an added bonus.
combo	I highly recommend them."
combo	"I spent 9 days with Katona Tours traveling through Rwanda and Uganda back in June of this year.
combo	I went with my partner and another couple with a primary goal of seeing the gorillas.
combo	We were all very impressed with Katona and the level of professionalism that everyone showed throughout the process.
combo	Leading up to the trip, Jackie was very helpful and easy to communicate with.
combo	It really took the ease off knowing that she was there to answer all of our questions.
combo	The trip itself was amazing, thanks in large part to our amazing guide, Ceasar.
combo	Ceasar was very professional, a great conversationalist and an all around good guy.
combo	It would not have been the same without him by our side.
combo	I would not hesitate to recommend Katona Tours to anyone.
combo	Thanks to them for a trip of a lifetime!"
combo	"Our trip was a group of 9 people and, thanks to Katona Tours & Travel, our journey went like a hitch.
combo	Special thanks to Jackie, she is a great organizer.
combo	The drivers and guides Richard & Shafick are excellent professionals and very kind and funny guys.
combo	You are in our hearts, friends!
combo	Uganda are bountiful country!!!"
combo	It was very organized trip.
combo	Guide Siza was knowledgeable and hard working Accommodated my special requests and went long way to find animals.
combo	Trip was very detailed and showed me what ever was promised Thank you Katona for helping me out and giving me the best possible service Raj
combo	My wife and I planned a last minute trip to track Gorillas in the Bwindi impenetrable forest.
combo	From the first communication with Jackie until everything was great.
combo	I would also say that our driver Elias was amazing.
combo	My wife suffers from a knee problem and Elias was able to arrange an easier trek for us.
combo	Jackie was continuously in touch with us through the trip to ensure that we are having a great time and also helped us with a refund as the Hotel gave us a room in a lower category.
combo	We would definitely recommend Karona Tours and Jackie for a great experience all the way from a pick up from Kigali to Bwindi and back.
combo	"It was an amazing trip.
combo	I went with my mother for her 66th birthday and we opted for two days of trekking.
combo	The first day was a strenuous 3-hour hike up a mountain during a thunderstorm, but we were rewarded with incredibly close encounters.
combo	The next day we opted for a shorter hike but the experience was just as good.
combo	Jackie's care and concern was top notch.
combo	She phoned us each day to ensure all was on track.
combo	Our driver was excellent, always early and very helpful to set us up on the correct trek each day.
combo	I highly recommend going through Katona Tours and Travel."
combo	"My wife an I went on the 1 day trip from Kigali to Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.
combo	To start off, the booking and communication with Jackie was very quick and efficient.
combo	She was super helpful and a great communicator.
combo	Our driver Elias picked us up from our hotel in Kigali early in the morning and was perfectly on time at 4am.
combo	We cannot say enough great things about Elias.
combo	He made our trip AMAZING!
combo	He was so friendly, so fun, very informative, very knowledgeable, and always kept a big smile on his face.
combo	He was so fun to hang out with on our long drive, it felt like we had our own little tour of Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	After the trek he took us to a local place in Uganda for an authentic African lunch.
combo	By the time we returned to our hotel in Kigali after the tour it felt like we were family.
combo	I highly recommend asking for Elias as your driver.
combo	The drive from Kigali to the park was roughly 3 hours, and it was a really cool drive.
combo	A lot of it is through the beautiful Rwanda and Uganda mountain countryside so its quite breathtaking.
combo	Crossing the border was easy.
combo	They just check your passports and give you a stamp, it takes about 10 minutes.
combo	Once we reached the base camp where the trekking starts, Jerome and Silver from the Uganda Wildlife Authority introduce you and give a briefing of the days activities.
combo	The same 2 guys were our guides for the trek in the mountains.
combo	Big shout out to Jerome and Silver, they were awesome.
combo	Super friendly, very informative, amazing guides through the mountains.
combo	You'll also have an armed guard with you so they really make you feel safe for anyone who is a little scared.
combo	It took us about an hour to find the families and I cannot express enough how kind and gentle these beautiful creatures are.
combo	We found a big family with 3 HUGE male silverbacks, 2 females, a couple teens, and 3 babies.
combo	We were able to hang out with them for an hour and I would say we were only a bout 10 feet away from them.
combo	It was CRAZY!!!
combo	The babies and teens were running around playing with each other the whole time while the big parents we lounging next to them.
combo	We even got to see a mother nursing her baby.
combo	I heard a lot of people say Bwindi is where you must go for Gorilla experiences, but i totally disagree.
combo	We had a wonderful and very close encounter with a big family of Silverbacks at Mgahinga, and its much closer to Kigali.
combo	I highly recommend booking this trip with Katona Tours.
combo	Get ready for the hike of a lifetime!!!
combo	Side Note: Uganda is one of the most beautiful countries on earth.
combo	Just seeing the beautiful countryside alone was worth the trip"
combo	"Everything from the kommunication with Jackie before we left Sweden until the moment we had to say good bye to our driver Elias after 3 Days worked perfect.
combo	Elias took very good care of us, and gave us a stressless and fantastic tour.
combo	The gorilla trekking from Buhoma was magic and everyone involved did a great job.
combo	The hour we had with the gorillas went by very quickly.
combo	Some roads we went on to get there were bad, but no one is to blame for that (we have now learnt what free African massage is) Our days at Lake Bunyonyi were also great.
combo	We can highly recomend this 3-day-tour with Katona, and if you get Elias as your driver you will be very well looked after."
combo	"It was sort of a last minute decision to do the gorilla trekking and while most of the agencies replied that permits are sold out for the dates we wanted, Jackie managed to arrange them for us.
combo	Jackie was always very responsive to all our emails and requests, and followed up on our trip daily - called us to make sure that everything is going well and as expected.
combo	She also helped me to get reimbursement from Transferwise (service I used to pay for the tour and who did not explicitly state all the fees hence Jackie received less than expected).
combo	She was also very kind and was fine that we pay the difference to the driver.
combo	As for our tour guide and driver Elias.
combo	He is a great driver and tour guide!
combo	He was informative, friendly, and funny.
combo	He really made an effort to get to know us and what we wanted to do, and encouraged us to make stops for the photos whenever we wanted.
combo	Also in case there is a chance of a rain during the tour - then he's definitely your driver - he'll make sure you won't get stuck on the muddy roads (on our way he even helped one of the other drivers when they got stuck with their jeep).
combo	Our tour's starting point was from Kabale and it took around 2.5 hours to reach Buhoma (with great rainforest scenery on the way).
combo	Gorilla trekking Our trekking point was Buhoma and we trekked the Katwe gorillas family that had a recent newborn (yey!).
combo	In total the trekking was around 4-5 hours, but not in a very fast pace.
combo	After having reached gorillas family we were allowed to spend with them 1 hour.
combo	Definitely pay extra $$ for a porter.
combo	It is worth the money and helps the local students not only financially, but also gives them opportunity to see gorillas, too.
combo	They hold your backpack and help you when you need help.
combo	Buhoma community walk We did the walk the day before the gorilla trekking to stretch our legs :) It was around 2-3 hours, but not very tiring.
combo	It's nice to have some smaller bills to buy some souvenirs on the way (there will be plenty of opportunities).
combo	We had an interesting walk visiting the local coffee maker (who shows how coffee is brewed), Batwa community with a small performance on their traditions, local Banana brewery that produces beer and gin (with tasting), and the final was visit to women's center who are making various crafts from colorful fabrics (another great opportunity for souvenirs).
combo	Overnight stay We stayed at the Buhoma community rest camp - run by local community.
combo	We stayed in a cabin with a stunning view of the rainforest, also the dining area had the same view.
combo	During the night though it can get a bit chilly, so it was a very considerate touch to find a rubber hot water bottle in bed before going to sleep :)"
combo	Went Gorilla Trekking from Kigali to Bwindi and it was a great experience.
combo	Jackie was always response and super accommodating.
combo	My driver Elias went above and beyond.
combo	He drove me overnight to Bwindi and Kigali and we returned the next day.
combo	Drove 10 hours in a 24 hour time span.
combo	Can't get much better than that.
combo	Would highly recommend this company.
combo	Working with Jackie and Elias was seamless.
combo	"We wanted to go gorilla trekking for a day in Uganda on a late notice, but all the permits were booked.
combo	Jackie was amazing and managed to find us two permits for the dates that we wanted.
combo	Although there were some small issues (not her fault!
combo	), we did get to have an amazing once in a lifetime experience going trekking to see Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi.
combo	The driver Richard, that got us to the park and back, and helped us with the activtiy, was super friendly, kind, and helpful, on top of being a great driver.
combo	I would highly recommend Katona Tours, Jackie has been super responsive with all our requests and was very arranging even when things were complicated."
combo	"The experience started with the excellent service received by Jackie.
combo	She always returns emails within a day or sooner.
combo	I had so many questions but each one was answered in a timely and efficient manner.
combo	When I researched trips I only looked for 3 or 4 and once I found Katona I didn't look any further.
combo	The company provides excellent value for money and once I read the reviews I was relieved to have found such and excellent company so quickly.
combo	One of many reasons I selected Katona was because of the rapid reply to my requests for information.
combo	The day of the trip our driver picked us up at our Hotel and our adventure began.
combo	We stayed for 3 days at Nyungwe Hill Top and 3 days at Da Vinci Gorilla lodge.
combo	They were both excellent value for money and had excellent and attentive staff.
combo	I will review these separately.
combo	We were able to spend time with the Chimps, Gorillas, and Golden Monkeys.
combo	Due to timing we were able to add another nature hike and were able to see four additional types of monkeys.
combo	Our driver was flexible and always willing to slow down for photo opportunities and to stop for coffee when requested.
combo	All of our activities exceeded expectations and Jackie even checked in with us a few times during the trip.
combo	If you are looking for a company to book an adventure with, look no further.
combo	This company has the additional benefit of being locally owned and operated so the revenue stays in Africa.
combo	I will post photos and video once the review is up.
combo	Look no further, you won’t regret it.
combo	When we go back, we will definitely book with Katona Tours."
combo	"What an amazing trip!
combo	We did a 4 day tour to see the Gorillas and Chimpanzees with pickup in Kigali and drop off in Entebbe.
combo	Our driver was Elias who was the real superstar of our trip.
combo	He arrived at our hotel an hour early for pickup just in case we wanted to leave earlier.
combo	He was amazing at explaining everything we will be doing that day and was always happy and polite which made us very happy.
combo	We met his whole family on the way and they made us feel like family also, a special mention goes to his mother-in-law who gave us enough papaya to eat for a month :-D On our gorilla trip there was a particular group my wife and I wanted to see and he pulled out all the stops pleading to the gorilla guides to give us that particular group.
combo	He got us the group we asked for and we saw 3 silverbacks, females, juvaniles and a baby, an amazing experience.
combo	On our chimpanzee tour the next day in the afternoon we were lucky enough to spend an hour (maybe a little longer) with a troop of 25 chimpanzees, some of them coming as close as 1m away.
combo	Again, an amazing hard to describe experience.
combo	Every accommodation was better than we could of hoped for, spectacular view, great food and the kindest, most caring staff we have ever came across.
combo	Me and my wife do not usually book multi-day tours and prefer to do things ourselves as our plans change a lot and we worry we will miss something.
combo	We were maybe not the easiest clients as more than once we heard about things that were not in the tour, such as seeing the Shoebills in Mabamba swamp near Entebbe.
combo	Elias and Jackie did everything to get us there in our limited time to see them.
combo	Before we arrived Jackie in the office was very prompt to reply to our e-mails and she was always there to help with anything we needed.
combo	Everything was very professional.
combo	Do not hesitate to book your tour with Katona tours.
combo	We came for the Gorillas and the Chimps but we have left Uganda with a friend for life in Elias.
combo	Thanks for the memories, It was the perfect start to our honeymoon.
combo	Nick and Lauren"
combo	"I’ve taken tours with Katona twice now.
combo	The first time by myself in Uganda, and the second time with colleagues in Rwanda.
combo	Jackie is an amazing coordinator to work with!
combo	Quick responses, reliable, and will go out of her way to ensure you have a good time.
combo	She even remembered me from my first trip two years ago and provided a small discount for being a repeat customer!
combo	Katona consistently gives the best rate and value (I reached out to 6-7 different companies to compare), and I would definitely recommend!"
combo	"I had one of the best times in Uganda thanks to Katona Tours!
combo	It was such an eye opening experience to gorilla trek in Bwindi.
combo	Definitely something people need to experience at least once.
combo	It is a difficult trek, most people can do it but some people may require more time then others.
combo	Just make sure you bring extra water and dress accordingly.
combo	Definitely pay extra $$ for a porter.
combo	It is so worth the money.
combo	They hold your backpack and help you when you need help.
combo	Katona Tour went out of their way for us.
combo	One of the lodges didn’t provide us lunch on the last day when they were suppose to.
combo	So they told our amazing guide Elias to take us to a lunch spot in town that was paid for by Katona Tours.
combo	They also proceeded to call us at the end of tour to see how everything was.
combo	It was a great trip!
combo	As for our tour guide Elias.
combo	He was a great driver and tour guide!
combo	He was informative, friendly, and funny.
combo	He really made an effort to get to know us and what we wanted to do, so we frequently made stops whenever we liked.
combo	Katona tours was organized and everything went accordingly."
combo	"We took the trekking tour coming from Kigali to the Ngohenga National Park and spent 4 to 5 hours trekking.
combo	The car trip took about 3 to 4 hours including crossing the border.
combo	Drive was phenomenal, considerate, prompt and friendly.
combo	The tour was excellent we were able to see the Gorillas for an hour and enjoyed the strenuous exercise too.
combo	I highly recommend this!!"
combo	"Jackie answered all our questions within record time, adapted the tour to our wishes and also checked in with us several times during the tour.
combo	Everything was perfectly well organised, I can only recommend her and her company!"
combo	"I had an excellent experience.
combo	Jackie was very responsive and easy to work with.
combo	Elias, the driver, was very professional and was on time, made sure I knew what was going on, and was very helpful.
combo	The trip was incredible!"
combo	"Jackie was a great contact.
combo	She was responsive and she delivered EXACTLY as she promised.
combo	No glitches and the description of everything was exactly what we received.
combo	Jackie is also a good source for everything Rwanda and Ugabda, if you want to make it a destination.
combo	We visited Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Ugabda and although the Safari in Uganda is not the Serengeti it was much cheaper, prettier and not far off.
combo	Uganda was our favorite country and we felt safe the entire time.
combo	We are a family of 6 and everyone loved the gorilla experience the most!
combo	The hike to the gorillas was easy and not an uphill.
combo	The area is beautiful and the village below is a worthwhile destination.
combo	We had 2 guides with guns and 2 porters and the gorillas were located by a team of 6 and they too had guns (to protect from wild animal encounters, which we didn't have)."
combo	We had an excellent driver Robert who had looked after the two of us throughout the 3 days of complex itinerary involving climbing the highest peak in Rwanda followed by a Gorilla trek in Uganda before returning back to Rwanda again to continue with our journey.
combo	Robert’s assessment of the timing was spot on all the time for each activity and everything went on like clock work.
combo	We never once felt rushed.
combo	Thanks for he great experience!
combo	"We did a Gorilla trekking in Uganda - it was amazing!!!!
combo	Mgahinga national park is very recommendable!!!
combo	Our driver Elias picked us up in Kigali, Ruanda, and drove us to our Lodge in Uganda and the next day to the starting point for the trekking.
combo	After it, he drove us back to Kigali.
combo	Elias was the best!!!
combo	Ask for Elias when you need a very friendly, openminded and funny driver :-) on top of that, his English was perfect!"
combo	"I had a very good experience with Katona tours.
combo	Jackie was very responsive to all of my emails, and setting up the tour was very easy.
combo	I was a little nervous about wiring a large sum of money to book the tour, but there were no problems.
combo	All of the elements of the tour were exactly as we discussed, and the experience was great.
combo	I was picked up early from my hotel in Kigali, I drove with my guide Robert into Uganda.
combo	We went straight to the park after crossing the border to track gorillas, and then he took me to the lodge (the Mount Gahinga Lodge) where I had a delicious hot lunch and a complementary massage.
combo	The food, drink and service at the lodge were really incredible (seriously good food).
combo	The next day I tracked the Golden monkeys on the Ugandan side, returned to the lodge for a hot shower, and then back to Rwanda to catch my flight home.
combo	We were supposed to go to the market in Kigali prior to my flight, however the drive back from Uganda took a very long time so we had to go straight to the airport.
combo	The trackers, rangers and porters for both the gorilla trek and the golden monkey trek that I did were lovely and very kind, as were all the staff at the lodge where I stayed (the Mount Gahinga Lodge).
combo	A few notes: bring plenty of cash for tips.
combo	There were more trackers (5) and rangers (2) than I expected on the gorilla tour.
combo	Similarly, there were more staff at the lodge (where the took very good care of me) than I expected.
combo	Everyone is very kind and helpful, so be sure to bring some extra $$ to support them.
combo	There was nowhere to get money, and unfortunately I had to tip some folks in Rwandan money because it was all I had left.
combo	I didn’t realize that because I bought a single entry visa at the airport in Kigali, that I would need to get another visa when I returned to Rwanda from Uganda.
combo	Luckily my guide helped me out, as they only accept US dollars at the border and I was out of dollars and had no way to get more (see above about tipping).
combo	If you get an East Africa Visa this is not an issue.
combo	Because I came straight from Kigali to the gorilla trek, I did not have a lunch packed.
combo	Luckily, we found the gorillas very quickly and I was able to have a hot lunch at the lodge.
combo	However, if we had tracked for a long time I would have been very hungry after getting picked up a 4 am and having only a granola bar for breakfast.
combo	I thought we might stop on the way to the gorillas for a coffee or breakfast or opportunity for me to get some snacks, but that was not the case.
combo	Be sure to hack with the tour operator about those meals, as you will be hiking and will need fuel!
combo	Go see the Golden Monkeys!
combo	I really loved this experience-completely different than the gorillas and really fun and interesting.
combo	Bring a lunch."
combo	"We had an amazing time!
combo	Gorilla trekking is worth every penny and Katona tours is the best way to do it!
combo	I was uncertain about it as my husband and I discovered I’m pregnant prior to the trip.
combo	Jackie was incredible and made sure things were as easy and stress as possible on me and the baby!
combo	I was 10 weeks pregnant during our trek.
combo	It’s a challenge but everyone was more than accommodating to let me set the pace.
combo	We were completed cared for on our trip there, trip back, trek, and lunch.
combo	It was absolutely perfect!
combo	I would recommend Katona tours to anyone!"
combo	Ceasur the driver was very good and was great company throughout.
combo	Knew his way around the parks too.
combo	Accommodation was great but highlight was gorillas which is a must
combo	"It was a great experience from the moment I contacted Jackie to book my tour.
combo	Katona tours made is so easy to get all that is needed for my gorilla/chimpanzees trekking from Kigali to Uganda.
combo	Elias was just helpful, informative, kind and a skillful driver throughout the trip.
combo	He made sure I was comfortable and all my needs were met.
combo	He goes beyond what is expected in every way helping me repair my broken hiking shoe, getting a SIM card, stopping for pictures along the way, just everything I needed he was there to help.
combo	I will return in the future, thank you for making this adventure so easy for me."
combo	"My gf and I had an amazing experience with Katona Tours.
combo	The service was professional and attentive.
combo	Jackie was also very responsive to any questions we had before and during our trip.
combo	In addition, I had inquired with over 20+ tour operators and Katona tours were among the Top 3 best Quality/Price company to provided me with a quote.
combo	You just can't go wrong!
combo	Our Guide/Driver Elias was the perfect guide for our 4 day adventure.
combo	Patient, kind and friendly.
combo	He was willing to do anything to make sure we had a great time.
combo	Make the stops whenever we wanted.
combo	Our trip was definitely memorable thanks Katona Tours.
combo	Thanks guys!"
combo	"From the very first email I knew I was in safe hands.
combo	This is an extremely professional company.
combo	No question was to minor and every request was answered promptly thanks to Jackie who was an absolute star.
combo	I used Katona for the one day gorilla trek in Uganda, followed by the Dian Fossey trek the next day.
combo	As a solo traveler I had my reservations but that was soon laid to rest when Elias turned up in Kigali at the start of my trip and who would be my designated driver for the next three days.
combo	What a nicely turned out gentleman Elias turned out to be.
combo	Caring, friendly and an excellent driver.
combo	Probably his best virtue though was patience as he was constantly having to wait for me.
combo	By the end of the tour we were just a couple of really good buddies on a road trip and you can't ask for much more than that, except maybe the shirt on his back which I really admired and which he quite literally gave me on my specific request.
combo	So, to my good friend Elias from Kampala and Jackie, thanks for a wonderful three days."
combo	Amazing!!!!!
combo	The comtact with the Gorillaz is incredible.
combo	Elías is the best Guide in the world😃.
combo	If you Go to this trip...
combo	Call to Elías.
combo	I recomend!!!
combo	!
combo	"I had contacted 28 tour companies in regards to doing the silver back gorillas from Rwanda.
combo	Katona tours were one of three companies that were kind enough to mention that if I was to cross over to the Uganda side from Rwanda it would cost less.
combo	I didn’t know this and I thought it was very kind to enlighten me of this.
combo	Jackie responded through email swiftly and did not hesitate to answer ALL of my questions throughly.
combo	I told her what I wanted to do and how long I had and she organized it all for me.
combo	My flight arrived into Rwanda at 5.30am and Elias was there waiting for me and off we began.
combo	Everything was organized, paid and moved so perfectly.
combo	Elias was so kind and funny so please ask for Elias to be your driver.
combo	I had taken donations of toys with me (I wish I had taken a lot more) and Elias helped me distribute these to children on the streets along our journey.
combo	My tour was three days and two nights.
combo	It consisted of the genocide museum, silver back gorillas, golden monkeys and Ibyi wacu.
combo	I can’t recommend Katona, Jackie and Elias enough!!
combo	TIP: if you are going to do the gorillas in Uganda on arrival into Rwanda airport get the East African visa to save trouble crossing borders and save 20 USD overall."
combo	"I booked a gorilla tour rather last minute with Katona Tours for early March, when I was finishing up a month working in Rwanda.
combo	Valens picked me up from Kigali and we had a very easy (though slow/safe) drive to the border.
combo	I had been worried about crossing the border, but had no issues, and Jackie was very responsive via whatsapp and phone to my questions.
combo	From the border it was a very close drive to the hotel.
combo	The next morning we went straight to the park, which was not very far.
combo	We had a lucky day and the gorillas were actually quite close to the park entrance, so we got to them in thirty minutes!
combo	Seeing the gorillas up close in person was an unbelievable experience, and Katona Tours made it very easy!
combo	Though it is still pricey, it was definitely worth it!
combo	The drive back was also very easy and Valens was great company and very safe.
combo	I would just recommend going with a group as it was a lot of time by yourself (since the part with the gorillas is only one hour)."
combo	"A soon as I knew I was going to Africa the first thing I researched was going on a Mountain Gorilla Trek.
combo	This is something I’ve been wanting to do and the opportunity came.
combo	I found Katona Tours via google and from the moment I emailed them the service was exceptional.
combo	I was dealing with Jackie via email and she was very informative about what tours they offered.
combo	Jackie was very prompt with replying to my emails (and there were a lot as I was asking a lot of questions).
combo	We decided to do the 1 day trek through Mgahinga Park Uganda.
combo	It was advised that we were going to be picked up at 4:30am, however on the day our driver (Elias) was 30 min early.
combo	This didn’t bother us at all.
combo	Please be mindful if you choose this tour the drive from Kigali to Uganda is around 3 hours.
combo	My sister in law and I pretty much slept most of the way to Uganda and my husband stayed awake and saw the beauty of Rwanda at sunrise.
combo	Once we got to the Uganda boarder Elias was very good in instructing us on where we needed to go and do.
combo	From the boarder it was another 30-45min to the park.
combo	Once we arrived there were porters waiting for us to walk us to the briefing point.
combo	Elias also came with us to the briefing point.
combo	Once we got to the briefing point, we met out tour guides and they brief us on everything we needed to know.
combo	Then the fun began.
combo	We trekked for around 2 hours before we saw the gorillas.
combo	The guides were amazing and answered every question we had.
combo	We were lucky enough to see all eight gorillas which included two, two year old babies.
combo	Seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat is an experience I will never forget.
combo	Some people say that this is an expensive tour, however it was worth every dollar.
combo	I give full credit to Elias for driving for 6 hours a day.
combo	He ensured we had a great time and even bought us some snacks on the drive back to the Kigali.
combo	I would highly recommend Katona Tours and Elias as a driver.
combo	Thank you so much for an incredible experience From, Andrea, Ben & Mim"
combo	"My skepticism began when I hadn’t heard from anyone at Katona since they confirmed they received my payment a few months before my gorilla trek.
combo	24 hours before the trek I had to reach out to them to confirm our early pickup time and it’s a good thing I did, because despite having already provided my hotel information they didn’t know where I was staying.
combo	We confirmed a 4am pick up at 9pm the night before the trek.
combo	We sat outside of our hotel from 4am until 5:50am waiting to be picked up.
combo	Emails to Jackie, multiple WhatsApp messages and calls to Jackie and Elias, a Facebook message and a Skype message all went completely unanswered.
combo	Nobody from the company reached out to me once and I couldn’t get in contact with anyone.
combo	We were convinced we weren’t trekking until a van pulled up honking its horn almost 2 hours late.
combo	Upon arrival there wasn’t much apologizing, just excuses about blocked roads that didn’t add up.
combo	I understand the roads in Africa can be unpredictable but for nobody to inform us of what was happening was unacceptable.
combo	The entire experience from there was just uncomfortable around Elias.
combo	He frequently mentioned how we should be tipping everyone during this trek.
combo	He argued with us about his arrival time - he tried to convince us he was only 1 hour late when it was just under 2 hours.
combo	He also slept the majority of the ride to and from the park.
combo	I also felt like there was very little information provided by the company on what to expect.
combo	For example, we didn’t realize there would be no food provided until after the trek which was about 1:30pm in my case (keep in mind the day was supposed to start at 4am).
combo	I also didn’t even realize we’d be crossing the border into Uganda and was never told to bring my passport, which we almost left behind at the hotel for safekeeping (good thing we didn’t).
combo	The trekking itself was great, but the tour company is not with you at all during this time and has no influence on the gorilla trek at all.
combo	They are just a transportation service to and from the National Park."
combo	"I spent a month in Kigali for work and was eager to see the gorillas, but less eager to pay $1500 for a Rwandan gorilla permit.
combo	I decided to go to Uganda to see them, but was nervous about the arrangements, especially as there is currently somewhat of an ongoing dispute at the Rwanda-Uganda border (as I found out, this doesn't affect foreigners crossing).
combo	I found Katona on Google and checked Tripadvisor and got in touch with Jackie by Whatsapp.
combo	I was amazed how quickly things could be set up.
combo	Within a few hours, I had a confirmed reservation to go see the gorillas less than a week later.
combo	I was offered easy options to pay either by Paypal or via a money transfer agent in Kigali; I chose Paypal since I was at work and did not want to have to head to the bank to get cash and then figure out how to send it.
combo	On the day before I saw the gorillas, Elias, my guide from Katona picked me up at my hotel.
combo	He arrived 30 minutes early in a comfortable Land Cruiser.
combo	I was traveling solo, and he made me feel really comfortable.
combo	I appreciated that he explained that since I was traveling by myself, things could go at my pace, and if I wanted to stop anywhere along the way he was happy to.
combo	The trip into Uganda was smooth, with Elias helping navigate the many stops required for formalities at the border.
combo	I was brought to my ""mid range lodge"" which was great - very nice room, great views, excellent food, and by chance, a great group of other guests to have dinner and spend the evening with.
combo	The next morning, Elias brought me to the gorilla briefing area, where I was assigned to a trekking group.
combo	I won't go into too much detail here, since you probably already know how this works if you're reading about the gorilla trekking experience.
combo	The day was everything it was promised to be... the most difficult hike I've ever been on but an amazing opportunity to see these animals from mere feet away.
combo	Three days later, I'm still slightly sore, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
combo	The trip back was equally smooth.
combo	Right after trekking, Jackie (the owner or manager) called Elias and spoke to me on the phone to make sure everything went perfectly.
combo	I was eager to get back to Kigali and Elias made that happen expediently.
combo	Overall, while there are lots of companies offering similar Ugandan gorilla trek experiences from Kigali, and they are very hard to tell apart on the Internet, but personal service is everything and I couldn't have asked for more from Jackie and Elias.
combo	Additionally, in a region where responsiveness is sometimes an issue, I would highly recommend working with Katona and getting in touch with them via Whatsapp, because I got nearly instant responses to all my questions."
combo	"I went on a gorilla tracking tour with Katona and had the best time!
combo	My driver Elias was really great and helped me through every stage of the trip.
combo	We drove from Kigali to Bwindi Forest in Uganda.
combo	The drive was great and went through ""The Switzerland of Africa"" with stunning views.
combo	I stayed at Bakiga Lodge which was so nice and Elias even arranged for me to come back after the gorilla tracking even if I had checked out to freshen up and have lunch.
combo	Hiking through the Bwindi Forest and seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat is an experience I will never forget.
combo	I can highly recommend travelling with Katana and if you do, ask to have Elias as a guide, he will make sure you have the best time and are well looked after!"
combo	"The gorilla trek experience has been on my bucket list for awhile and although it’s a pricey excursion it is worth every dollar!
combo	Katona Tours was great at organizing the perfect 2-day tour in Uganda for me, which I squeezed in on the back of a work trip.
combo	I trekked about two hours into the Bwindi forest and then spent an hour with a group of 9 silverback gorillas!
combo	I did the mid-range tour which was fine if you are a low maintenance traveler like me.
combo	Elias was a stellar local guide.
combo	He was fun, a good driver and when we arrived back in Kigali well ahead of my departing flight, he took me to the hotel Des Milles Collins, where Hotel Rwanda was set, for a nice meal and drinks to relax instead of sitting in the airport for hours which was such a nice gesture!
combo	I highly recommend this amazing experience and Katona was great at customizing a tour that fit my travel needs!"
combo	The Gorilla Habituation Experience is a truly amazing experience which I can only recommend to everyone who is fascinated by those animals.
combo	Jackie from Katona Tours made this trip possible and helped me planning.
combo	She responded quickly to all my questions and was flexible in agreeing on pick-up and drop-off place.
combo	My driver Elias did an excellent job getting me there under difficult road conditions and provided very good service!
combo	Thank you!
combo	!
combo	"I had to go to Kigali for a business event in August 2018.
combo	My ambition was to make an additional private 3 days tour.
combo	I wanted to get as much impression from Ruanda (culture, landscape, wildlife) as possible, but with a limited budget.
combo	I contacted several local tour providers and received a variety of offers.
combo	Most offers included Gorilla Trekking and therefor exceeded my budget.
combo	Kantona Tours offered a 3 days Akagera National Park tour with a pricing within my budget.
combo	I had some further mail contacts with Jackie from Kantona, who was extremely responsive.
combo	She asked me to transfer a deposit (30 %) to a Bank in Uganda.
combo	With some discomfort I transferred the money and prayed to God.
combo	Jackie confirmed the receipt immediately and we scheduled the pick-up from my hotel.
combo	In Ruanda the driver (SORRY, forgot his name) picked me up as agreed and we really had a great tour.
combo	We had permanent conversations and I really learned a lot about Ruanda.
combo	Thanks again for his patient explanations.
combo	The game drives in Akagera (1 boat, 1 car) also were an fabulous experience.On the whole, the tour completely my expectations.
combo	I can highly recommend Kantona Tours.
combo	Thomas"
combo	Jackie was very responsive and everything was well organized.
combo	She helped us with our gorilla trekking permits and itinerary planning.
combo	Caesar was a very skillful driver and gave us useful advice.
combo	He knows the area very well.
combo	Highly recommend for those who are visiting!
combo	"An absolutely amazing experience start to finish.
combo	Jackie, who helped me book and manage the tour was super responsive and helpful, no matter what time zone I was in.
combo	The experience itself was breathtaking.
combo	Fun hike through the jungle to find the gorillas.
combo	Then got to hang out with a huge family of silverbacks, babies, and mothers, all hanging out munching away.
combo	I was so close to them, and the rangers were super helpful about positioning me in places where I could see through the undergrowth to get good pictures and looks at them.
combo	And then when I had to take a 3 hour drive back to Kigali, my driver, Elias turned that experience from a 3-hour slog, to a super fun cultural experience.
combo	He was incredibly friendly and accomodating, answering all my multitude of questions about the country, and then took me to a super traditional Rwandan restaurant for lunch.
combo	I'd definitely recommend requesting him, and definitely recommend Katona Tours."
combo	Jackie was very helpful in arranging transport and permits from Rwanda to gorilla trekking in Uganda and back again.
combo	It was pleasant to deal with Katona in arranging this amazing experience.
combo	My driver Elias was also very friendly and efficient as well.
combo	I can certainly recommend Katona Tours.
combo	"I did a Gorilla Tour with Katona Tours to Bwindi Forest/Uganda.
combo	Everything was perfectly organised, payment and communiction with Jackie, pick up in Kigali, the drive to Uganda and back, the visit to the Gorillas.
combo	My driver Elias was the best.
combo	He always made sure I had a great time, save driving, stunning views and experiences.
combo	He took good care of me also during the Gorilla tour preparation in Bwindi so I got a perfect group.
combo	I came to stay in the Rushaga Gorilla Camp which was really nice and clean and perfectly located.
combo	I highly recommend Elias as a driver and guide as he knows the area very well and can give you deep insides into the Ugandan society."
combo	"Hiked Mt Bisoke after driving from Kigali.
combo	Very early morning departure with multiple pick-ups and our wonderful driver (Elias) was perfectly on time.
combo	Very muddy hike during the rain season, would highly recommend getting a walking stick for the way down.
combo	I never use them but was grateful when one of the guards accompanying us found a branch to help me hike downhill.
combo	For a minimal fee, people will wash your hiking boots after you come down and the local shop has beers and soft drinks for sale.
combo	Free, delicious coffee at the park entrance and Elias stopped us at a good diner place on the way back.
combo	Bring snacks and plenty of water for the hike up and a dry t-shirt if you plan to hang out at the summit because it gets quite cold and windy.
combo	Overall, great company with fantastic organization and very responsive via emails and WhatsApp (they check on you over the course of the day to make sure everything is going smoothly!)"
combo	"I had an AMAZING time at Mgahinga - all thanks to Jackie and her team at Katona Tours.
combo	They were highly professional, obtained a permit very quickly for me (after booking only four weeks in advance), and did everything to accommodate my weekend schedule in Kigali.
combo	Elias was an excellent driver and tour guide.
combo	I can't speak more highly of my experience, and I would happily recommend Jackie and her team's service to anyone interested in gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda."
combo	"This was the second time I had used Katona Tours and Travel for Gorilla Trekking.
combo	They say its a once in a lifetime experience so if that's the case its probably worth doing more than once if you have the chance!
combo	1st trip was Gorilla trekking on the Uganda side and the second with a larger group of colleagues was in Rwanda.
combo	Both trips were exceptionally well handled by the team at Katona.
combo	Our transfers were friendly and we got a full run down on culture and history of these amazing countries.
combo	Highly recommend this team for competitive pricing, professionalism and to ensure you have an amazing experience."
combo	The Katona team did a fantastic job in helping me secure a gorilla trekking permit from the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA).
combo	I'd tried securing permit directly from UWA several times without success - their communication was pretty unclear - but once I got in contact with Katona and provided the details they were able to pick up the permit immediately after receiving the transfer.
combo	They even sent one of their reps to hand me the permit directly at the bus station I was traveling through.
combo	"We researched and asked for proposals from a number of tour companies and from day one Jackie and Katona tours stood out from the others.
combo	We did not regret our choice at all.
combo	Jackie was always super fast to reply and patient with our questions and requests.
combo	After all our planning and worrying, once we arrived in Kigali, Caesar was waiting for us and took care of all the details for the rest of our trip.
combo	Caesar was a very good driver on some very bad roads.
combo	We really enjoyed his company and good nature.
combo	Having a driver/guide like him really added to our enjoyment and knowledge.
combo	We had a great time seeing the Gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla Park and the Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park.
combo	I would not hesitate to use Jackie and Katona Tours again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for a worry free African vacation"
combo	"Jackie replied with a few hours with an itinerary and budget that fit our unique desires and dates.
combo	Elirus was a skillful driver and friendly guide.
combo	The 7-hour gorilla trek was more strenuous than our 63-year-old bodies were expecting, but memories of the huge silverback and baby gorilla on its mother back were well worth the sore muscles.
combo	The only hassle was the lack of a credit card payment option."
combo	"We just arrived home this minute from a 17 day trip to Uganda and Rwanda that Katona Tours planned for us.
combo	At first, we were planning on organizing and completing this tour ourselves.
combo	Are we ever thrilled that we booked with Katona!!!
combo	Jackie was wonderful all the time leading up to our tours...addressing all of our questions and concerns immediately and planning the very best tour we could have asked for!!
combo	Caesar, our tour guide was, without a doubt the greatest tour guide anyone could have asked for.
combo	His expertise on the Uganda culture, the parks and animals was second to none!!
combo	We immediately felt comfortable with Caesar and we left at the end of our tour feeling he was a great friend.
combo	He put up with all of the silly inquiries our famly of 6 could throw out there!!
combo	Never once did we lack confidence in his abilty to provide us with the best possible experiences!
combo	Every day we found ourselves saying that we would not have had the same great experiences without him!
combo	I highly recommend Katona and Caesar for anyone who is planning a trip to Uganda or Rwanda...YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!
combo	Thank you so much for making our dream trip a reality!!"
combo	"I've contacted Jackie months before our trip to Uganda.
combo	From the first moment she was very responsive and gave me all the info I needed for our first trip to Africa.
combo	She recommended lodges, hotels and gorilla permits.
combo	She took really good care of us during our stay at Uganda.
combo	Denis - our driver - was really helpful and gave us many information for Uganda.
combo	The car was excellent and he helped us in any he could during the 3 days of our trip."
combo	"Jackie was amazing and patient with me when planning our tour of Rwanda!
combo	Even when there was a small issue with one of our hotel rooms- she came to the rescue and within an hour , the issue was resolved.
combo	Our guide Ceasar was amazing as well!
combo	We arranged to have him pick us up in Kisoro, Uganda and help us cross the border into Rwanda.
combo	He was waiting for us and the crossing went extremely smooth!
combo	He is So well educated and a really nice guy.
combo	He was focused on ensuring that we had an amazing adventure!
combo	I highly recommend Katona Tours!!!"
combo	My Mum and I did a 3 day tour with Katona in August.
combo	Our quide was Elias and he was fantastic everything was so professional and he bent over backwards to accommodate our every need.
combo	Thank you very much for making our trip a fantastic and memorable one and hopefully we will be back to Africa to see more of this wonderful country.
combo	Was picked up in Uganda and quick trip for gorilla trek in Rwanda arranged without hassle.
combo	The driver Ceaser was excellent one of the best I have had.
combo	"We had a good tour in Rwanda.
combo	Elias was prompt, professional, friendly, and polite.
combo	The hotels where we stayed were terrific.
combo	And, of course, the nature was fantastic!
combo	We loved our trip.
combo	Jackie helped to customize the itinerary for our needs and was prompt over email. . One clarification.
combo	At least for our tour, Elias (who was terrific!
combo	functioned more like a driver than a guide in the sense that (i) the national parks require tours to be guided by their own employees and (ii) Elias did not do much animal-specific guiding during our long car rides.
combo	To make the experience even better, I think that Katona Tours might consider supplying Elias with nature books (""birds of rwanda"", ""mountain gorillas"") so that we could have enjoyed during the long car rides.
combo	And, I would have loved Elias to do more ""guiding"" during our drives -- telling us about the ecology, history, politics, economics, etc.
combo	of Rwanda.
combo	But, all of the above is in the context of a 5-star review.
combo	It was a great trip, and Katona Tours did well."
combo	"I had originally booked 6 nights in Virunga National Park, but when that had to be cancelled, I turned to Katona Tours for a last minute alternate tour of Rwanda.
combo	Jackie must be one of the hardest working people in the travel industry.
combo	She was incredibly quick at responding to all my emails with detailed itinerary suggestions and options.
combo	I wired a 40% deposit and delivered the balance to my driver in USD cash when I arrived.
combo	My driver Caesar was very knowledgeable about the local cultures, animals, even construction techniques.
combo	He was pleasant, personable, had a great sense of humor, and was very easy to get along with.
combo	The accommodation was very good for the price, but next time I will pay the few hundred more to get midrange instead of budget hotels."
combo	"From the early stages of planning this trip Jackie was extremely helpful and quick to reply.
combo	We had a great trip to Rwanda, chimp trekking and doing the canopy walk and our tour guide Cissor only made the experience ten times easier and more comfortable.
combo	There was never a moment of doubt and our itinerary was well thought through with great structure.
combo	I thoroughly recommend Katona tours as they ensure packages that are suited to your needs whilst providing the best experience possible for you."
combo	"We booked a 3-day gorilla trek with Katona via Entebbe to Bwindi.
combo	It was such a great experience!
combo	Yes, it was a timely drive down to Bwindi due to road conditions, but it was nice day drive to catch up on jet lag and rest some.
combo	We also got an incredible view into the culture and every day lives of different areas in Uganda.
combo	Everything went so smoothly from the start.
combo	Jackie was always very quick to respond to emails and helped tailor our trip to our wants/budget.
combo	Our lodging at Rushaga Gorilla Camp was incredible!!
combo	Last but not least, our guide Peter definitely made the trip.
combo	He taught us so much about the country, the culture, and had great stories from his time being a park guide in Queen Elizabeth.
combo	This trip was a short addition to our time in Africa but one that will always be remembered!
combo	Definitely would travel with Katona.
combo	Big thanks to Jackie and Peter!!"
combo	"We booked a 2 day trip from Kigali Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable Park for a Gorilla trek and after the trek back to Kigali airport to catch our evening flight.
combo	As you can understand it was a riscky endeavor, but we choosed the best partners for this fantastic adventure !!!
combo	Elias was so much involved in keeping us happy and he was so good in giving us details about everything we asked that our time spent there went finished very fast.
combo	The Gorilla trekking was great and the forest guides were much better than we expected.
combo	We had very good views of a Gorilla family including a silver back.
combo	The only thing which was not perfect was some other tourists which were clearly not quite fit for this trek and they ended up by being carried on their back by the guides...
combo	This can happen maybe, nut after this to give a total tip of 3$ to means to be lacking humanism..."
combo	"Jackie and Caesar gave a wonderful tour of Uganda and Rwanda and I would highly recommend using them.
combo	The booking agent Jackie was always very fast in replying to my numerous emails as I worked to determine where I wanted to go and what to see.
combo	In addition to providing a cost-effective tour hitting on the sights of interest to me, she was also great in that I was planning my trip last minute but she was still able to arrange everything.
combo	Every couple days during the tour she would call to verify that everything was going well.
combo	My tour guide Caesar was very pleasant, knowledgeable and simply a really good and kind person.
combo	If I had any small request or wanted to stop somewhere that wasn’t planned, he was always willing to accommodate.
combo	During the trip he was often commenting with knowledge of what we were seeing and he was great at finding animals at Queen Elizabeth Park.
combo	His knowledge helped me understand both the culture and the environment (landscape, animals).
combo	If I go back to Uganda or Rwanda I will definitely use Katona tours with Caesar."
combo	"I booked with katona a three day Gorilla Trek in Uganda.
combo	It was one of the greatest things that I have ever done and it was planned perfect by Katona.
combo	I want to thanks specialy to Elias, my guide, who was friendley and helpfull all the time.
combo	I will came back for sure in the future to do the Gorilla Trek and the election of the agency and guide will be the same!
combo	Good luck!"
combo	"Me and my partner booked our chimpanzee trek in the Kibale National Forest, Uganda with Katona.
combo	Jackie was really helpful and very fast at replying.
combo	Our driver Ben was a really lovely guy, very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife we drove passed!
combo	He was an ex-ranger and had so many interesting stories to tell on our long drives!
combo	I would recommend Katona!"
combo	"I used katona tour for gorilla trip she replied really fast with lots of helpful informations and options for different budget level.
combo	I would also highly recommend driver ceasar.
combo	He is very considerate, sweet and knowledgeable about Uganda culture, history , and tourist information.
combo	I'm very satisfied with katona experience and would recommend it t anyone!"
combo	"I booked a last minute trip to Uganda and Rwanda, and having emailed a few companies went with Katona as they offered a good price and had good reviews.
combo	I travelled from Kampala to Bwindi for gorilla tracking, and then on to Kigale.
combo	Communication with the manager Jackie was fast and my guide Caesar was really friendly and a great driver.
combo	I would recommend this company."
combo	"We had an amazing, comfortable and memorable five-day tour in Uganda, thanks to Ceasar and Jackie from Katona.
combo	Jackie responded promptly and professionally to my questions, working with me to find options that would fit our budget.
combo	They gave great lodging choices - especially at Bush Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, everything exceeded my expectations for a budget option.
combo	They even had a gentle hippo visiting the dining area every evening.
combo	Ceasar drove smoothly and safely, and we had fun, informative conversations.
combo	He carefully planned details like breakfast time, departure time, and whether we would take packed lunch so that our tour or game drive would be optimally timed, while allowing us flexibility.
combo	On the day of the gorilla trek in Bwindi, he helped us secure a nearby gorilla family and even borrowed two trekking sticks from a nearby hotel for us.
combo	On our last day, driving from Queen Elizabeth to Kigali airport, he managed to stop at Lake Bunyonyi for lunch, arrive at the Genocide Memorial before closing, and help us run an errand downtown - and we hadn't even woken up early!
combo	Since we visited Queen Elizabeth during the dry season, when the animals congregate around water boies, Ceasar worked extra hard.
combo	During the morning game drive, he read the body language of the kob, the presence of birds, and tracks on the ground to infer whether larger predators were nearby.
combo	We saw lions with cubs, elephants, buffalo, water buck, warthogs and smaller animals.
combo	Having worked in the park for years, Ceasar had interesting tidbits about every animal.
combo	Though we never met Jackie as she's based in Kampala, she called to check in most days of our tour.
combo	The folks at Katona are conscientious, responsible and warm.
combo	I will book with them again if I return to Uganda."
combo	"I had a great experience with Katona tours.
combo	Jackie even helped with my accommodation when I was basically stranded at the airport.
combo	The driver, Peter, was extremely friendly and helpful.
combo	The lodge was clean and cozy, and the trek was absolutely beautiful.
combo	Professional and excellent service all around.
combo	Would definitely go again and recommend to anyone who is interested."
combo	"We had a one week trek to see gorillas in Uganda and Congo, and it was really breathtaking!
combo	It is a unique experience and everything went really fine thanks to the team.
combo	Our guide (Ceasar) for the week was really friendly and efficient.
combo	If we had small requests, he was always trying to fulfil them.
combo	Jackie (with whom we booked the tour) was kindly phoning regularly to inquire whether everything was fine.
combo	It was like being with two more friends.
combo	Definitively something to try!"
combo	"We had a 5-days Gorilla tracking with Katona (one in Uganda and one in DRC).
combo	It was absolutely amazing.
combo	Very well organized with excellent guides (Ceasar and Chibe).
combo	Jackie was very helpful through the whole process, accommodating all our needs.
combo	We felt safe everywhere, just wish we had an extra day in Goma to climb the volcano."
combo	"I cannot day enough great things about this tour company.
combo	Right from the start Jackie took our requirements and she came up with the perfect itinerary for us, making sure we took in all the sights we wanted to.
combo	Nothing was a hassle!
combo	She made payment easy and provided us with an in-depth itinerary about our tour and even called straight after our trip to ensure we were happy.
combo	Now on to our tour guide.
combo	Martin, what an epic guy.
combo	He was so knowledgeable about the local area and about wildlife in the local area.
combo	Again nothing was a hassle, we stopped for photos and for a great lunch.
combo	Martin spent his time with us and it was great to chat to him about his life in Uganda and Rwanda.
combo	The drive was epic between Rwanda and Uganda, so many hills and farms to talk about.
combo	Martin was the perfect gentleman, I would not hesitate to recommend Martin or Katona tours for your Gorilla experience.
combo	Nor would I hesitate to recommend them also for touring other sights in Uganda!
combo	We’ve learnt so much from Martin about Uganda it seems we have to come back!!!"
combo	"Amazing time!
combo	Ahmed was our guide and he is a wonderful guide!
combo	He was prompt, kind, was a great source of information, and had such eclectic and fun taste in music.
combo	The vehicle was comfortable and the 10 hour drive out to see the gorillas and back felt like no time at all cruising in the van!
combo	The attractions we had experienced were life changing!
combo	They were spectacular!
combo	I highly recommend!"
combo	"It.
combo	was.
combo	fantastic.
combo	TLDR: Book your tour with Kingfisher.
combo	There's nobody out here doing what they do, as well as they do.
combo	This is the company to work with in Rwanda.
combo	Period.
combo	Ninah and Jimmy are my team.
combo	If you're lucky enough to work with either one of them, you'll count your blessings like I have.
combo	When I wanted to come to Africa I consulted an online group of experienced (mostly solo female travelers if I'm right) travelers, and their number one safari recommendation was Kingfisher in Kigali.
combo	They were right.
combo	When other visitors were trying to navigate payments or passport clearances at entrances to parks or museums, I sailed through because Jimym and Kingfisher already did it for me.
combo	Let me break it down, because I'm sitting in Kigali getting ready to go home and I want to cry, it's been so amazing (Shut up, I'm not crying •you're• crying!).
combo	Guide - Listen.
combo	Your guide makes this trip - and your travel company chooses your guide.
combo	You need one, honestly.
combo	I read that before I came here but didn't understand.
combo	When you book, you're assigned a driver/guide and I had no idea how influential this person is to your trip.
combo	In my case, Ninah had connections with an incredibly experienced guide who made this trip super special.
combo	He will for you too 9as will many others in Rwanda - the guide job is well sought after and the quality of guides is high)- he loves his country and educating people who come to visit.
combo	Booking - I booked a customized, 11-day tour of Rwanda through Kingfisher.
combo	Ninah, who was my initial contact and trip planner, not only helped me determine which elements of Rwanda most interested me, but then set it all up for me.
combo	I liked Ninah so much it was an easy ""yes"" to finalize the trip.
combo	Accommodation - Perfect for me and exactly what I wanted.
combo	Now, this depends on what kind of trip you want and where you want to stay (which you will determine with Ninah or your trip advisor).
combo	For me, I still can't believe I was able to stay in these incredible boutique hotels and keep the trip in budget.
combo	I've never in my life been asked to plant a tree at my hotel for posterity or had someone remove my nasty, muddy boots and socks and massage my feet - only to hand me mango juice and ask me about my day while my boots magically reappear clean at my door later that day (Five Volcanoes) or heard hippos and baboons from my bed (Ruzizi Tented Lodge).
combo	Adventures (all planned, scheduled, and recommended by Kingfisher) Kigali Genocide Museum: Please go.
combo	It's beautiful.
combo	Ninah suggested it, and I'd been wanting to go.
combo	It's very well done and I'm happy to know that most all clients go here Question Coffee : Go here.
combo	Drink.
combo	Support women.
combo	Support the economy of Rwanda.
combo	Enjoy.
combo	Canoeing: (Walter was amazing!
combo	He's so knowledgeable about birds, Rwandan ecoculture, and African wildlife/plants.
combo	it was a great trip, highly recommend) Hiking/Walking: Pax has several shout-outs on here, and I agree.
combo	Great hike, great information, the boat ride back to our car was gorgeous.
combo	Bring cash to grab a soda or beer on the ride back and enjoy the views.
combo	Gorrilla Trekking: No brainer.
combo	If it's in your budget.
combo	Do it.
combo	My guide, Jimmy, knew all the other guides and like literally everyone else, so I met tons of new people and had an excellent experience.
combo	Golden Monkeys: Also a no-brainer.
combo	They're so cute.
combo	Ditto the Guide info above Safari: My guide (Jimmy) is so knowledgeable about birds, mammals, trees, Rwanda, etc, every single question I through out at him he would be puling out a book to show me the spelling of a species of bird, or telling me the gestation period of a crocodile.
combo	We saw all the animals I'd hoped to see and then some.
combo	Day drive, night drive, do them both, Boat Ride (in Akagera): We went at sunset and saw tons of hippos, birds, and crocodiles.
combo	Great information and a fun tour from Innocent.
combo	Handspun Hope Tour: My only regret is that I wasn't here for several more days.
combo	Google it, it's a beautiful organization run from women and for women.
combo	the tour was lovely and I only wish I'd had more time to just enjoy the company of the women who work at Handspun Hope, Confession: I have one more tour tomorrow, and it's one I've been very excited to do.
combo	But I won't be able to shout that out here although I know I'll like it (literally nothing yet has disappointed me).
combo	We are doing a market tour with a cooking class.
combo	Do it, I have a feeling it will be amazing.
combo	Btw I'm technically traveling at the beginning of rainy season.
combo	It seems like more of a Hawaii rainy season.
combo	A little rain, it stops, a little more, it stops, etc.
combo	Most places have steeply discounted rates, consider coming in the rainy season."
combo	"Really great experience with Pax, kayaking on lake Kivu.
combo	He was an excellent guide and was great to have such experience when kayaking around the lake.
combo	Also great to learn so much about Rwanda in general.
combo	Being on the lake is a great experience and had a beautiful morning with super weather.
combo	Would recommend to anyone looking to do a tour in Rwanda and Pax is a brilliant guide!"
combo	"I have to say, Kingfisher was wonderful - i booked them for my trip to Lake Kivu in Rwanda and our guide Pax was wonderful - he took us kayaking and night fishing, which I HIGHLY recommend doing.
combo	I wish I had used them for the entire trip (I had booked the gorillas with a different company, which was also great, but now I understand that Kingfisher can do it all).
combo	Pax is a rock-climber, so if you are adventurous and want to do some adventure travel, ask for him!
combo	He was patient and super helpful, gave us a tour of Kigali and took me shopping, and found all the best coffee spots.
combo	Would definitely work with the company again."
combo	"We booked a 4 days trip to Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and Kigali with Kingfisher Journeys in November 2022 with a group of friends.
combo	From the beginning, the company (Ninah) has been very reactive and flexible, adapting the program and suggestions to our wishes and replying to any of our requests within few hours (if not minutes!).
combo	The whole trip was then exactly how we wanted it to be and we enjoyed every minute of it.
combo	We also spent wonderful time with our driver (Tito) and guide (Pax) who were very knowledgeable, communicative and friendly.
combo	We would definitely recommend Kingfisher Journeys to any person wishing to visit Rwanda."
combo	"We booked with Kingfisher Journeys for two outings: kayaking on Lake Kivu near Kibuye and canoeing down the Mukungwa River near Musanze.
combo	Our guides, Pax and Walter, were great!
combo	Walter is a wonderful birder, and we saw many different bird species.
combo	They provided the boats, paddles/oars, and life vests.
combo	They were well-trained and very safe.
combo	The equipment was high-quality.
combo	Don’t forget your binoculars and cameras!"
combo	"Perfect city, safe, clean and peaceful.
combo	We loved being in Kigali cause it was such a restful experience , the people were kind and helpful as well.
combo	Our experience was great overall .
combo	100% recommend and will return soon .
combo	The food at Kingfisher was great we ordered 2Rabbits and Fish , French fries ️"
combo	"Canoe tour of Mukungwa River was the highlight of our trip.
combo	It was Beautiful, relaxing, and informative.
combo	The guides were incredible, and we were able to see many local villages and lots of birds.
combo	I would recommend this trip to anyone traveling to Rwanda!
combo	Thank you for making this such a wonderful experience."
combo	"Kayak tour on Lake Kivu: Amazing area of Rwanda and so peaceful to see from the kayaks!
combo	2 guides (Pats & Walter) are great, and we had a lovely time on the beautiful lake paddling and camping, and on the interesting coffee washing tour on the island!
combo	Would recommend!
combo	Only suggestion to Kingfisher- for the amount we paid, we would have preferred slightly better hospitality in terms of catering.
combo	The meals could be more substantial and more interesting (local foods would be amazing !/from locals offering that service nearby).
combo	It Would have been nice to feel the boat had been pushed out in terms of the catering comfort, due to expectations from the price!
combo	We had a great time anyway though so thanks to all the team:)"
combo	"I was part of a group of 4 women.
combo	We did a sunset kayak on lake Kivu which was really lovely.
combo	Our instructors were knowledgeable about plants and wildlife and fun to be with.
combo	3 of us also went canoeing in Canadian canoes down the northern Nile - we had the same instructors and really enjoyed our time.
combo	We went through a small rapid, saw an amazing number of birds (all of which our instructors identified) and a brilliant view of the crops and irrigation systems as well as large groups of interested children.
combo	I would recommend the company and their activities to anyone."
combo	Highlight of my visit to Rwanda so far.
combo	Our guide was brilliant.
combo	The views were stunning.
combo	Loved every minute of it.
combo	loved Wandering down the river seeing the locals farming and seeing the variety of birds was beautiful.
combo	"Really nice trip in canoe in a beautiful landscape viewing the 6 volcanoes, many birds and flowing with the river.
combo	Our guides were very good.
combo	The kids were so happy about this beautiful adventure!
combo	Thank you…"
combo	"We had a wonderful, sunny morning canoe tour in rainy season.
combo	Our guide knows a lot about birds and we had a surprising meeting with 7 grey-crowned cranes.
combo	Also enjoyed seeing a spoonbill, kingfishers, sunbirds, vultures and kites, many weaverbirds.
combo	Elois is a nice interactive man who shared his passion for nature and canoeing."
combo	Had the best experience with Kingfisher Journeys- we booked a canoe trip.
combo	The views were gorgeous and the tour guides were great at identifying bird life.
combo	We were a group of 10 with age range from 10-55 y/o and this trip appropriate for all ages.
combo	Not to be missed.
combo	The canoe trip was excellentt.
combo	The sound of the sevaral birds along he river combined with the easy paddling was hypnotizing.
combo	We have lived in Rwanda for over a decade and Kingfisher is one of the best things to happen to the country.
combo	DO NOT VISIT RWANDA without experiencing one of their trips!
combo	"It was great to be out on the river - peaceful view of the valleys, farms and people.
combo	The birdlife was also fantastic and unphased by our paddle through.
combo	the team supporting us was helpful, friendly and organised.
combo	Couldn't have asked for much more."
combo	Had a great time standup paddleboarding on Lake Kivu with Yves.
combo	He was the perfect balance of friendly and professional.
combo	Easy to book and connect at the hotel too.
combo	Well recommended!
combo	"Highly recommend Kingfisher.
combo	Our two guides (Gratien and Yves) were everything an ideal guide should be: capable, knowledgeable, responsive, flexible, communicative . . . . the list could go on.
combo	Best of all though they were warm and personable––I felt a genuine connection with them during our four days on Lake Kivu and I hope to stay in touch.
combo	They speak French and English both and definitely know how to tailor a trip to suit the customers' specific needs/desires (we were a large group and they managed fantastically).
combo	Blessings Kingfisher!"
combo	"Went on a four day kayaking trip on lake Kivu.
combo	We started Kibogoro to Gisenyi.
combo	Gratien and Yeves were our guides, and they were amazing!
combo	They did a great job leading us and were very knowledgeable.
combo	They strove to make genuine connections with us and were consistently concerned for our safety and well being.
combo	I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them and would absolutely recommend them to others!
combo	It was a great way to experience the beauty of Rwanda."
combo	"Great 4 day kayaking trip across lake Kivu!
combo	The guides were very knowledgeable about the area and willing to be flexible on the itinerary to meet the needs of our group.
combo	Our guides, Gracien and Yves, were very well trained in water safety and rescue procedures.
combo	Despite having a large group, they managed the trip very well and we felt very comfortable on the water knowing the training our guides had under their belts.
combo	Thanks to Kingfisher Journeys for the trip of a life time!!"
combo	"Great trip!
combo	Four days total on Kivu with my best friends and two great guides.
combo	Couldn't ask for a better trip.
combo	Gratien and Yves (our guides) were extremely personable and spoke fantastic English and French.
combo	They had the perfect balance of caution and mindfulness for our group and laid back easygoingness ( : The trip itself was awesome.
combo	The islands are great for exploring, tree jumping, etc.
combo	Definitely be sure to swing by Napoleon if you're around.
combo	Climb to the top and see the bats.
combo	Also, if you want a really unique experience and don't mind waking a bit early, get out on the water before the sunrise and experience the silent tranquility of a sleeping Rwanda.
combo	The water was glass.
combo	Definitely recommend Kingfisher."
combo	"I had a fantastic adventure with Kingfisher Journeys!
combo	My friends and I did a 4 day kayak trip across Lake Kivu with our two guides from Kingfisher, camping on islands along the way.
combo	Kingfisher Journeys outfitted our group of seven with kayaks for the trip.
combo	Amazing experience all around!
combo	Our guides Gratien and Yves were knowledgeable and fun to hang out with."
combo	"We went on a 4 day 3 night trek from Kumbya to Gesenyi in lake Kivu with a group of 9 people -- and it was one of my favorite treks I've done in Rwanda (and I've lived in country 2 years)!
combo	We camped on islands each night, exploring others along the way -- including exploring Napoleon island home of thousands of fruit bats, and finding and jumping from overhang trees and rocks for fun.
combo	Our two guides, Grastien and Eve were fantastic.
combo	They were a ton a fun, very knowledgeable in leading kayacking, cooking food, and education on wildlife and landmarks in the lake.
combo	They also had a great balence in keeping us safe and letting us ( ans often joining) in goofing off and having the freedom to have fun along the way.
combo	They were extremely personable and became good friends I'll definitely continue to keep up with.
combo	I can't say enough about both of them.
combo	If you'd like to experience the unique lake Kivu, make new friends, and have a blast, check out Kingfisher Journeys kayacking trips!"
combo	We went down the Mukunga river eith Eloe.
combo	What a great experience it was.
combo	Eloe started with a short briefing and once you get the hang of it (we did never went canoeing before).
combo	You go between the field and you’ll see a lot of birds and you’ll be easily in contact with the people.
combo	Who are loving it to see you toil your way and are trying to support you.
combo	Afterwards we received the picture Eloe took.
combo	A nice extra touch.
combo	"I'll be honest: canoeing wasn't at the top of my to-do list, but it *was* on my friend's.
combo	And I'm so grateful for that because this has been one of my favorite experiences in Rwanda!!
combo	After 6 years of traveling here, I have never experienced a more peaceful, fun activity.
combo	Eloi is great, and was a great guide.
combo	I highly recommend this, and honestly, it makes me want to book the Lake trip too."
combo	Our Canoeing trip in Muzanze was incredibly enjoyable and peaceful.
combo	I would recommend this to anyone who'd like to discover the stunning valley of the Mukungwa river.
combo	"Meandered 6 miles down the murky Mukungwa River.
combo	The current was swift.
combo	The muddy waters snaked past irrigated plots of sugar cane, yams, maize.
combo	The stream was lined with papyrus, bamboo and eucalyptus.
combo	A variety of long legged birds (herons, igrets, hammerheads and storks) stalked the shore looking for grub.
combo	Weavers darted about as well as kingfishers.
combo	Old men fished with bamboo rods for tilapia hoping to catch an evening meal.
combo	A couple of women were washing clothes.Teens harvested grasses with machetes for their cows sequester at home.
combo	Boys and girls gnawed on sugar cane.
combo	All paused to stare at the musungu paddling by.
combo	A few said ""good morning.""
combo	Most were silent.
combo	A couple of show offs plunged in the river emerging exuberantly.
combo	Fresh accurately describes Lawal, my guide.
combo	His love of water is as radiant as his smile.
combo	His enthusiasm is infectious.
combo	He shines with joy.
combo	His knowledge of birds sharp as is his eye."
combo	"Absolutely loved every minute of our canoe trip on Lake Ruhondo.
combo	The views were stunning, the guides were so much fun and the service from Kingfisher was fantastic.
combo	Don't miss out on this great experience :) HIGHLY RECOMMENDED :) Whooop!"
combo	"Canoeing Mbirurume river was a great trip to do in Rwanda.
combo	Everything was taken care of, the food was excellent, the equipment in very good shape and the guides fantastic.
combo	The camping spot is very nice in a rather remote part of the country.
combo	And canoeing was just fun.
combo	It's a very fair value for the money and I can only recommend Mbirurume trip."
combo	"Absolutely loved the 2 day canoeing trip!
combo	Was a stunning location and such a fun activity!
combo	I thought it the guides were truly amazing - super organised, knew 100% what they were doing, made me feel safe and well taken care of but also had the most fun with them.
combo	Can’t recommend this enough."
combo	"Just an incredible experience.
combo	We did the brand new 2-day camping/canoeing trip on the Mbirurume river.
combo	To get to the point, DO IT!
combo	It was one of my favorite trips I've done in Rwanda, and I've done quite a few.
combo	It's really off-the-beaten-path and unique.
combo	It's a part of Rwanda most people haven't seen.
combo	Can't recommend enough!
combo	We got picked up by the awesome team in Kigali and drove to the campsite on Saturday (stopping for a nice, hearty lunch).
combo	The campsite was in one of the most remote areas of Rwanda I've ever been to.
combo	It was stunning in its beauty and tranquility.
combo	We got there early enough to hike around the area a bit, and then the team made us a nice dinner and we sat around the fire.
combo	The next morning we had a nice breakfast before setting off the begin the trip.
combo	The views on the ride are incredible, and once you are in the water they don't stop.
combo	They gave us some tips on canoeing that were very useful even for those of us who had canoed before.
combo	We canoed for a few hours before stopping for lunch and setting up a little rope swing to cool off in the river.
combo	Then we finished up our trip and were picked up and driven back to Kigali.
combo	It was so beautiful and relaxing, yet adventurous.
combo	The river is so much fun to paddle down and there is no shortage of children greeting you as you cruise along.
combo	The team just made the trip so easy and comfortable and fun for us.
combo	Thanks to Eloi, Yves, and Dan for the amazing experience.
combo	I will surely be back again!"
combo	Don't Leave Rwanda without Kingfisher Journeys.
combo	We've now done the following with them: standup and paddle on Kivu (and kayaking); canoeing on Ruhundo; twice on the Mkugwa.
combo	Each experience was unforgettable for all of us aged 8 - 50.
combo	The team is professional and amazing!
combo	Eloa and Yves are amazing - so friendly and accessible with tremendous knowledge of the birdlife.
combo	"Our family with kids ages 9, 11, 13 had the best weekend hosted by Kingfisher Journeys!
combo	We started out kayaking and stand up paddling on Lake Kivu which was such a special way to see Giseyni, the birdlife and the surrounding areas from the water,.
combo	The next day we took a boat on Lake Ruhondo to an island where we hiked along the water's edge and had a very intimate view of local community life as well as incredible and rare birds, and a sighting of a hawk who hunted a frog in front of us!
combo	We hiked to a boat which met us with canoes and we then canoed across the Twin Lakes with dramatic views of volcanoes and a picnic on top of a private island!
combo	Our last day in the area we enjoyed a village bike ride with Team Rwanda, another excellent way to see farmland, and village life all hosted by extremely patient and knowledgeable guides Eloi and Yves from Kingfisher Journey..
combo	I highly recommend planning any of their ourdoor activities on your next visit to Rwanda!"
combo	"An exhilarating worthwhile experience.
combo	Please do this when in Rwanda.
combo	Staff are very professional & knowledgeable.
combo	My wife is terrified by water bodies yet l, Yves, our guide managed to reassure her that she's completely safe.
combo	One of the best experiences out there."
combo	"KIngfisher Journeys made our trip to Rwanda an excellent vacation!
combo	The itinerary was perfectly arranged, the friendly staff and guides were professional and knowledgeable, and the activities made for great adventures.
combo	The canoe trip was a particular highlight with a backdrop of lovely scenery!"
combo	"Just back from Rwanda and had a great trip, I highly recommend the canoe trip on the Mukungwa River with Kingfisher Journeys, they were great, since I was a solo traveler the guide was in another canoe and took great photos of me.
combo	Saw many different species of birds, also the local children swimming were fun to watch.
combo	Great fun!"
combo	"We enjoyed canoeing on the river in Musanze a lot!
combo	Wonderful activity in Musanze and great for bird watching (crane, spoonbill and lots of other beautiful birds)."
combo	"Our guide Eloi was the best!
combo	He was knowledgeable about the birdlife, local farming and other tourism activities in Rwanda.
combo	The trip itself was well coordinated and a fun afternoon out on the water surrounded by nature.
combo	Would definitely suggest doing the canoe trip!"
combo	"We were a group of 11 people.
combo	Kids from 9 to 16 years old.
combo	Great service, great communication beforehand.
combo	The activity is good fun.
combo	Don't except a shot of adrenaline.
combo	It's relax with only 2 small rapids."
combo	We had an amazing experience canoeing down the river.
combo	It was so beautiful and relaxing and fascinating to see life of locals along the river.
combo	Our guide Eve was brilliant!
combo	"This was my second time going on a canoe trip along River Mkungwa.
combo	It was beautiful and serene - it felt like I was a part of the surrounding nature; gorgeous cranes, cattle egrets, weaverbirds, and even an otter!
combo	The company staff are very professional and knowledgeable about the environment and are very kind.
combo	I had my lunch and juice in the canoe in the middle of the trip and it was such an amazing experience!!
combo	I HIGHLY recommend canoeing on River Mkungwa and kayaking on Lake Kivu.
combo	I have done all these trips and I am looking forward to some more!"
combo	"Amazing experience worth doing with amazing guide (Eloi).
combo	The community on the banks is amicable and busy in their daily routine( fishing, planting, swimming..etc)"
combo	"We signed up for river trip about 15 hours before the scheduled departure.
combo	Unfortunately when we arrived we were told that the river was too low to run.
combo	While we understand that the water depends on the operators of the hydroelectric dam, and this is mentioned on the website, if this is an important factor for you be aware that you may be paddling on a lake instead.
combo	Other than this issue everything went smoothly and the we enjoyed the experience."
combo	"I did the sunset kayaking trip on Lake Kivu with Kingfisher Journeys and HIGHLY recommend it!
combo	Firstly, the lake is so beautiful, especially at sunset.
combo	The company was very easy to book with and communicative.
combo	The guide, Willy, was fantastic and really took care of me.
combo	He explained everything we were seeing and taking photos.
combo	We even got to meet some of the guys on the fishing boats.
combo	The trip was a lot of fun and I would love to do it again.
combo	Would recommend to all my family and friends."
combo	"Had a great afternoon kayaking along the shores of Lake Kivu around Gisenyi.
combo	We also had time to visit a small island, which was a perfect location for a swim in the lake."
combo	"Did the haf-day Lake Kivu kayak with a friend yesterday morning and really recommend it!
combo	They were supposed to be closed that day but Steve and Willy accommodated for us anyway.
combo	We got out on the Lake at 07.30am and Willy took us around the Lake.
combo	The weather was beautiful, the kayaks were in great condition, and Willy was a great guide.
combo	Really knowledgeable, friendly guy.
combo	If you’re ever in Rubavu, do this.
combo	Michael & Mads"
combo	the only kayak company to offer you a full package of congo nile trail but done in the lake.
combo	From Rubavu to Karongi and further south to Nyamasheke.
combo	"We thoroughly enjoyed our half day kayaking trip on Lake Kivu and would highly recommend it.
combo	It was so easy to book through Kingfisher and they were great responding to queries.
combo	Also excellent value for money.
combo	The guide was superb and led the trip at a pretty easy relaxing pace and had excellent knowledge of the local birds and history of the area.
combo	It was surprising just how much distance we covered in the time and with only moderate effort.
combo	The stopover at the hot springs was great, although with the water at over 45 degrees it was literally a toe in and out!
combo	You will get wet so recommend wearing swimmers.
combo	The weather can also change pretty rapidly so make sure you put plenty of sunblock on.
combo	Excellent way to explore this are of Rwanda."
combo	"We were particularly impressed at Kingfisher's ability to organise this at extremely short notice (thanks Sharon and Sandrine).
combo	The route is very well devised, mostly on flat water through farmland but with a short stretch of relatively simple rapids.
combo	Plenty of bird life, a very close encounter with an otter and lots of swimming children trying to keep up with the canoe."
combo	"My friend and I spent a morning kayaking Lake Kivu with Kingfisher.
combo	I only wish we had more time because it was a beautiful experience.
combo	The weather was lovely, it was a Sunday so the locals were out in the plenty playing in the water and waving to us as we rowed by, and we had an amazing guide who made the day even more enjoyable.
combo	Eloi was exceedingly kind and easy-going.
combo	He was great to talk to and we learned so much about the area and the birds!
combo	He is quite the ornithologist.
combo	If you go, I recommend staying at Inzu Lodge and having a meal at Paradis Malahide.
combo	Eloi joined us for lunch there and it was wonderful.
combo	I can't recommend Kingfisher enough!"
combo	Green Hills tour company arranged this for us with Kingfisher.
combo	A beautiful activity to do on a spare morning or afternoon in Musanze when visiting Volcano National Park.
combo	Unfortunately Kingfisher car broke down so we had to reschedule our Canoe for the next day but it was not problem for us!
combo	The guide was extremely knowledgable of all the wildlife and crops as we cruised down the river.
combo	Would highly recommend!
combo	"We’ve just had a truly memorable experience with Gracien, who was so helpful!
combo	When I was struggling a bit, he tied my kayak onto his and got me back.
combo	He was so knowledgeable and funny too.
combo	The kayaks were great and the views breathtaking.
combo	Recommended totally for a really memorable experience!"
combo	Our group of guides managed three groups of 20 people really well - taking us on a beautiful hike from Musanze with views over the volcano.
combo	A lovely way to spend a day in Rwanda!
combo	"An excellent afternoon out on the lake.
combo	From the time we met with Elois our guide, we were cared for in a fantastic way.
combo	Once in the lake we far exceed our expectations in terms of how far we could safely row.
combo	We got to witness the beauty of the sunset from the water as well as the memorable sight of the fishermen heading out to their locations for the night.
combo	Elois was really a superb trainer and guide.
combo	Cannot recommend highly enough.
combo	Fantastic"
combo	"A great outdoor activity near Musanze.
combo	The canoe trip on the river is peaceful,safe and the scenery is gorgeous.
combo	Steve, the manager,is easily accessible and provides quick answers to messages.
combo	Eloi,our guide,picked us up and dropped us off at our hotel.
combo	He is also very professional and friendly."
combo	The trip was excellent.
combo	Very relaxing and I was able to learn a lot about the birds that live close to the river.
combo	If you have some extra time in Muzanze I would definitely recommend this trip!
combo	!
combo	"We were a group of 8, and had a great (and exhausting!
combo	time with Francis and Gratien!
combo	Went out to Napoleon Island, hiked, had lunch, and came back."
combo	"Had an amazing kayak trip onto lake kivu in the afternoon and early evening to watch the bird life, visit the hot springs and watch the fishermen sing their way into the lake.
combo	We got so interested chatting about the land and the lake that we nearly missed the fishermen paddling out.
combo	Fab trip brilliantly tailored to my abilities in a sea kayak.
combo	Amazing g scenery and knowledgeable guide."
combo	"I thought that doing the canoeing trip in Musanze during the rainy season would affect our experience, but it made it all the more unpredictable and enjoyable!
combo	This trip is great for those who enjoy relaxed adventures.
combo	Sandrine is a wonderful guide that made our group feel confident and comfortable on the river.
combo	Kingfisher Journeys was a great way to celebrate my friend's birthday!
combo	And a mention to Steve, for being so friendly and helpful throughout our trip planning!"
combo	"By far the best way to explore Lake Kivu.
combo	I suggest mountain biking 3 days from Gisenyi to Kibuye and then seakayaking back 3 days for an epic six day adventure.
combo	We just completed the round trip.
combo	Kingfisher did a fantastic job of getting 6 kayaks together for my group, not an easy task in a land without seakayaks.
combo	Thanks Steve for making this happen."
combo	"I did the two day trip with Kingfishers Journeys.
combo	As a women traveling alone, I was nervous.
combo	However, I felt safe the entire time with my guide.
combo	Lake Kivu is very easy to kayak on so if you aren't too experienced, you shouldn't need to worry.
combo	Would definitely recommend this to a friend!"
combo	"Definitely plan a kayaking trip if you're staying in Gisenyi or Kibuye!
combo	It was a great, if not only, way to really see more of the lake.
combo	During my experience, the guide didn't say much unless he was prompted, so don't be afraid to ask questions.
combo	If you're in Gisenyi, you can bring a little money to enter the hot springs."
combo	Kayaking and paddle boarding on Lake Kivu were the highlights of my time in Gisenyi!
combo	My guide was very experienced and accommodated the activities to my skill level.
combo	Highly recommended!
combo	"We spent three hours with Sandrine as our guide, peacefully canoeing the Ruhondo river.
combo	She made everything easy and explained about the local culture as we passed the fields filled with villagers working and waving to us.
combo	We are bird enthusiasts: she made sure we could stop and view them while she demonstrated good knowledge of the different types.
combo	This is mainly a very easy paddle and float, (one can swim along the way); a couple of sections pose a slight challenge but our Sandrine made sure all was fine.
combo	I highly recommend this excursion."
combo	"If you are in Rwanda I highly recommend these guys.
combo	Friendly and professional.
combo	An authentic experience .
combo	Thanks Eloi , Ives and Rashid :)"
combo	"Kayaking on Lake Kivu with Kingfisher Journeys was the highlight of our stay in Gisenyi.
combo	It's a wonderful way of seeing birds( pied and Pygmy kingfishers, hamerkops in abundance, cormorants, sunbirds, grey and dwarf herons and even a fish eagle calling ) and meeting local people swimming or washing or fishing as you come around the corner.
combo	Gracien was a wonderful guide- took us through the safety aspect clearly and calmly, gave us technical advice which worked and was a happy easy companion.
combo	We kayaked to the peninsula , ate sweet local bananas there and returned to Paradis Malahid for a cold beer and a good lunch overlooking the lake.
combo	Great fun, good views, good exercise."
combo	"I have missed kayaking since moving overseas.
combo	Going on a two day trip with Kingfisher was a great opportunity to get my kayaking fix.
combo	The equipment was in great shape, the guide was very kind and helpful, and the hotel for the overnight was very nice.
combo	Felt like I was staying at a friends' cabin for the weekend.
combo	Did a great side trip to see the hydroplant in a small community and really enjoyed the hiking after sitting all day!
combo	The paddling was at my own pace and I was able to explore the shoreline quite a bit.
combo	I would absolutely do it again and would recommend anyone who wants to get out on the water to do this trip!
combo	Thanks Kingfisher for a fantastic experience!"
combo	"I was deadly afraid of falling in.
combo	Coming from a Caribbean island with clear blue water I refrain from swimming in lakes and rivers.
combo	So needless to say I was scared to death, but my guide, Sandrine, gave me a good peptalk and off we went.
combo	The trip was smooth and the scenery was amazing.
combo	I loved it so much that I took my SO for a second round.
combo	I definitely advice to do this at the end of the rain season.
combo	The visibility is great then and the volcanos make for great background pics."
combo	"A friend and I had an amazing weekend.
combo	Day one was rough because of some wind/waves (prepare for that in dry season, and leave early before the wind picks up) but there would have been a rescue boat available had things really gotten too choppy.
combo	We continued by kayak, which ended up just fine.
combo	Day two: early-ish start after a good night's sleep, wind in our backs so full-speed ahead with a view of Nyiragongo volcano in the distance.
combo	We had a fantastic time and Francis was a great guide: good company, calm, caring and always there when you need him, whether for kayak tips or to practice Swahili.
combo	Packed lunch was super tasty and the guesthouse Kingfisher booked us in was welcoming and beautifully located right on the lake.
combo	Great weekend away (do the 4-day trip if you're up for it!
combo	), recommended."
combo	"We did a day trip of it-- left Kigali in the morning (3hr drive), started the tour around 11:30am and finished up by 3pm before heading back to Kigali.
combo	It was a great experience and the guide was informative.
combo	They were nice and packed us bread, bananas, and water for the trip.
combo	recommendation: you could definitely pack your own lunch and then eat on this lovely island they take you to)"
combo	"Was in Gisenyi for a couple of days and am so glad I decided to do a kayaking trip with Kingfisher Journeys.
combo	It was the offseason, so it ended up being just me and the guide, but we had a great time.
combo	It was a half day trip (which was enough for me), so we spent about 3 hours out on the water, then went out again at sundown to watch the fishermen go out at sea.
combo	Highly recommend if you're looking for something to do that's a bit more active in Gisenyi."
combo	"It was a beautiful experience.
combo	Sandrine, the Canoeing guide, is really nice and has a lot of experience.
combo	I made the trip alone, but I had a very pleasant time.
combo	They can pick you up and drop you off where you want and the price is very accessible and if you are a volunteer in some organization, you can get a discount.
combo	I really recommend this experience!!"
combo	The canoeing trip in Musanze is a really pleasant trip in itself but such a fantastic way to see something different in Rwanda.
combo	a must do activity for everyone in the area!
combo	"Steve and the Kingfisher crew are well equipped to take care of clients on amazing water based trips through beautiful scenery.
combo	We had a great time, thanks!!"
combo	Big thank you to Gratin who took me and a friend paddle boarding today.
combo	He was helpful friendly and flexible.
combo	We met at Discover Rwanda Hostel and walked to the lake where he gave us a quick lesson and from there took us out on the water.
combo	It was my first time and he was so encouraging and fun to be around.
combo	I recommend this to anyone who enjoys water activities!
combo	"We really enjoyed our paddle with Sandrine amid stunning views of the volcanoes in northern Rwanda.
combo	We recommend this for anyone who wants to see beautiful Rwanda, many types of birds, and many of the people who live and farm along the river.
combo	We highly recommend!"
combo	"A friend and I did an open-water swim and needed a support kayak in case of difficulties and to shield us from boats.
combo	Whilst this is not normally what Kingfisher do Steve was incredibly accomodating and helpful to us.
combo	He went above and beyond demonstrating his great knowledge of the lake to make it possible.
combo	On the day itself, Gratien, who was our guide in the kayak was incredibly friendly and helpful and we really feel he knew exactly what he was doing.
combo	And he took some great pictures.
combo	Couldn't have been a better experience for us.
combo	Just a shame that we weren't able to do one of the actual tours as we didn't have time.
combo	Would recommend for the great overall quality of service."
combo	"I spend half a day on the lake.
combo	It was easy to book online at Kingfishers Journeys webpage, the excellent guide told stories about the attractions on the way and Rwanda in general.
combo	It was a really good way to see the lake, the attractions on the shore as well as the outstanding landscape."
combo	"My boyfriend and I had a fabulous time kayaking with Kingfisher on Lake Kivu!
combo	This is such a fun excursion to do if you’re in the area or if you’re staying in Kigali.
combo	Our tour included beautiful views of the coastline from the water, circles around beautiful islands, hot springs and foot massages, a fishery, and of course, delicious bananas.
combo	The equipment is all very nice and new and the guide (Bastien) was extremely helpful, friendly, and went above and beyond expectations for us.
combo	I would definitely recommend Kingfisher for a fun and professional activity to do on the beautiful Lake Kivu."
combo	"Had a great time with Sandrine guiding our team on the river in Musanze !
combo	Definitely to add to your list when coming to Rwanda.
combo	Beautiful scenary, many birds around, sharing smiles with local kids trying to catch up with us all the way down.
combo	Relaxing and fun !"
combo	"Incredible experience!
combo	So many birds!
combo	What a great way to see the all the crops and farming outside Musanze and get a feel for life in the valley.
combo	It was a delightful paddle down a gentle stretch river that required only basic canooing skills.
combo	Sandrine (our guide) was delightful, well informed and well trained and made safety a priority.
combo	Would recommend to anyone with a spare half day in Musanze."
combo	"Our canoe experience in the river in Musanze was excellent!
combo	We saw lots of birds, and local people, and just enjoyed a lot canoeing down the river.
combo	At some point there was a big storm, with lots of rain, that added more adventure!
combo	We had to stop for a while, but after that we continued.
combo	Sandrine, the guide, was very good.
combo	She is very experienced, knows every single spot of the river, and also how to deal with people.
combo	Many local kids of the area know her!
combo	Also, the logistics of everything were great.
combo	Very well organized.
combo	For sure I'll come back!"
combo	"Thanks to Francis, our Guide, the half day Trip on Lake Kivu was a great experience.
combo	I remember also with pleasure the Hot Springs we visited during the tour.
combo	To be continued and strongly recommended"
combo	"Instead of just relaxing in the lodge, we thoroughly enjoyed 3 hours canoeing in calm water, with just one minor rapid and one ""tree trunk obstacle"".
combo	Our guides Sandrine and Teste conveniently met us at the Murabura hotel in Musanze and drove us to the river.
combo	After a thorough briefing, we launched into the water, under the watchful eyes of the local kids who enthusiastically followed us all the way.
combo	This new canoeing adventure is clearly an attraction for the local community as well.
combo	Sandrine explained a lot about nature, so that we can now even distinguish bamboo from sugar cane 😊.
combo	Teste reliably helped with all the logistics along the way.
combo	A great activity to experience Rwandan nature and cutlture beyond the gorillas!"
combo	"My girlfriend and I met our guide, Gratian at a lovely restaurant he had recommended, and he drove us up to the hotel launch point 15 minutes outside of town.
combo	He provided us with 2 bananas and a big bottle of water, and we got out onto the water.
combo	The views from the lake were beautiful and it was a very nice and relaxing way to see some great views of the lake.
combo	Gratian was a great guide, full of interesting information and also took many photos of us in kayaks, which he sent to us over What's App later that day.
combo	Definitely would recommend.
combo	And if you buy online, make sure to use the student discount (they have other discounts as well) which cut 40% off the price.
combo	August 2016, 26 years old"
combo	"Canoeing along the river is an amazing experience!
combo	The views were awesome, especially during the sunset.
combo	It was also very fun!
combo	My collegue and I were beginners and quite slow, but Sandrine and Steve were very patient and taught us how to do it better :) I strongly recommend it!"
combo	I would recommend this trip to anyone visiting Musanze who wants a new experience.
combo	We went one morning and spent a very exciting but relaxing time paddling down the beautiful river spotting pied kingfishers and egrets along the way.
combo	It was very picturesque and the trip was well organised with all safety equipment in good condition and well trained guides who knew the river well.
combo	We were on the river for approx.
combo	3 hours.
combo	Its a nice active way to spend a morning or afternoon and a great alternative to gorilla trekking.
combo	I booked a full day kayak trip on Lake Kivu out of gisenyi at the last minute and they fully accommodated my spot.
combo	They ensured that I could get a gluten free lunch that was taken on the trip.
combo	Steve is an incredibly enthusiastic and engaged owner who really aims to make sure you have the best possible experience.
combo	There are generous discounts for nearly everyone!
combo	Basically you just have to be breathing to get a discount!
combo	Francis was a great guide who was constantly checking to make sure I was happy and okay.
combo	He took safety and comfort levels very seriously.
combo	The lake was a bit choppy but was always checking and assessing.
combo	And a great conversationalist too!
combo	I can't recommend this company enough!
combo	"Kingfisher Journeys was excellent and accommodated us on very short notice for an afternoon out paddling around Gisenyi.
combo	Their gear is top-notch but even better is their customer service.
combo	Francis, our guide, was incredibly knowledgable, friendly but also was happy to let us just relax and enjoy the water during our few hours out on the boat.
combo	Definitely recommend booking a trip with them!
combo	We hope to join them soon for one of their longer overnight expeditions."
combo	"I spent two days kayaking with kingfisher journeys.
combo	I had a really great time.
combo	I was concerned that I would find it hard because it was my first time kayaking, I however found it a lot easier than expected and Steve was so attentive and helpful.
combo	I really enjoyed the peace of the lake, enjoying the sun and watching the wonderful birds.
combo	It was also lovely to talk to the locals as we slowly sailed past on our kayaks.
combo	I would highly recommend this trip to anyone coming to Rwanda."
combo	"It.
combo	was.
combo	fantastic.
combo	TLDR: Book your tour with Kingfisher.
combo	There's nobody out here doing what they do, as well as they do.
combo	This is the company to work with in Rwanda.
combo	Period.
combo	Ninah and Jimmy are my team.
combo	If you're lucky enough to work with either one of them, you'll count your blessings like I have.
combo	When I wanted to come to Africa I consulted an online group of experienced (mostly solo female travelers if I'm right) travelers, and their number one safari recommendation was Kingfisher in Kigali.
combo	They were right.
combo	When other visitors were trying to navigate payments or passport clearances at entrances to parks or museums, I sailed through because Jimym and Kingfisher already did it for me.
combo	Let me break it down, because I'm sitting in Kigali getting ready to go home and I want to cry, it's been so amazing (Shut up, I'm not crying •you're• crying!).
combo	Guide - Listen.
combo	Your guide makes this trip - and your travel company chooses your guide.
combo	You need one, honestly.
combo	I read that before I came here but didn't understand.
combo	When you book, you're assigned a driver/guide and I had no idea how influential this person is to your trip.
combo	In my case, Ninah had connections with an incredibly experienced guide who made this trip super special.
combo	He will for you too 9as will many others in Rwanda - the guide job is well sought after and the quality of guides is high)- he loves his country and educating people who come to visit.
combo	Booking - I booked a customized, 11-day tour of Rwanda through Kingfisher.
combo	Ninah, who was my initial contact and trip planner, not only helped me determine which elements of Rwanda most interested me, but then set it all up for me.
combo	I liked Ninah so much it was an easy ""yes"" to finalize the trip.
combo	Accommodation - Perfect for me and exactly what I wanted.
combo	Now, this depends on what kind of trip you want and where you want to stay (which you will determine with Ninah or your trip advisor).
combo	For me, I still can't believe I was able to stay in these incredible boutique hotels and keep the trip in budget.
combo	I've never in my life been asked to plant a tree at my hotel for posterity or had someone remove my nasty, muddy boots and socks and massage my feet - only to hand me mango juice and ask me about my day while my boots magically reappear clean at my door later that day (Five Volcanoes) or heard hippos and baboons from my bed (Ruzizi Tented Lodge).
combo	Adventures (all planned, scheduled, and recommended by Kingfisher) Kigali Genocide Museum: Please go.
combo	It's beautiful.
combo	Ninah suggested it, and I'd been wanting to go.
combo	It's very well done and I'm happy to know that most all clients go here Question Coffee : Go here.
combo	Drink.
combo	Support women.
combo	Support the economy of Rwanda.
combo	Enjoy.
combo	Canoeing: (Walter was amazing!
combo	He's so knowledgeable about birds, Rwandan ecoculture, and African wildlife/plants.
combo	it was a great trip, highly recommend) Hiking/Walking: Pax has several shout-outs on here, and I agree.
combo	Great hike, great information, the boat ride back to our car was gorgeous.
combo	Bring cash to grab a soda or beer on the ride back and enjoy the views.
combo	Gorrilla Trekking: No brainer.
combo	If it's in your budget.
combo	Do it.
combo	My guide, Jimmy, knew all the other guides and like literally everyone else, so I met tons of new people and had an excellent experience.
combo	Golden Monkeys: Also a no-brainer.
combo	They're so cute.
combo	Ditto the Guide info above Safari: My guide (Jimmy) is so knowledgeable about birds, mammals, trees, Rwanda, etc, every single question I through out at him he would be puling out a book to show me the spelling of a species of bird, or telling me the gestation period of a crocodile.
combo	We saw all the animals I'd hoped to see and then some.
combo	Day drive, night drive, do them both, Boat Ride (in Akagera): We went at sunset and saw tons of hippos, birds, and crocodiles.
combo	Great information and a fun tour from Innocent.
combo	Handspun Hope Tour: My only regret is that I wasn't here for several more days.
combo	Google it, it's a beautiful organization run from women and for women.
combo	the tour was lovely and I only wish I'd had more time to just enjoy the company of the women who work at Handspun Hope, Confession: I have one more tour tomorrow, and it's one I've been very excited to do.
combo	But I won't be able to shout that out here although I know I'll like it (literally nothing yet has disappointed me).
combo	We are doing a market tour with a cooking class.
combo	Do it, I have a feeling it will be amazing.
combo	Btw I'm technically traveling at the beginning of rainy season.
combo	It seems like more of a Hawaii rainy season.
combo	A little rain, it stops, a little more, it stops, etc.
combo	Most places have steeply discounted rates, consider coming in the rainy season."
combo	The canoe trip was excellentt.
combo	The sound of the sevaral birds along he river combined with the easy paddling was hypnotizing.
combo	"It was great to be out on the river - peaceful view of the valleys, farms and people.
combo	The birdlife was also fantastic and unphased by our paddle through.
combo	the team supporting us was helpful, friendly and organised.
combo	Couldn't have asked for much more."
combo	"We went on a 4 day 3 night trek from Kumbya to Gesenyi in lake Kivu with a group of 9 people -- and it was one of my favorite treks I've done in Rwanda (and I've lived in country 2 years)!
combo	We camped on islands each night, exploring others along the way -- including exploring Napoleon island home of thousands of fruit bats, and finding and jumping from overhang trees and rocks for fun.
combo	Our two guides, Grastien and Eve were fantastic.
combo	They were a ton a fun, very knowledgeable in leading kayacking, cooking food, and education on wildlife and landmarks in the lake.
combo	They also had a great balence in keeping us safe and letting us ( ans often joining) in goofing off and having the freedom to have fun along the way.
combo	They were extremely personable and became good friends I'll definitely continue to keep up with.
combo	I can't say enough about both of them.
combo	If you'd like to experience the unique lake Kivu, make new friends, and have a blast, check out Kingfisher Journeys kayacking trips!"
combo	Our Canoeing trip in Muzanze was incredibly enjoyable and peaceful.
combo	I would recommend this to anyone who'd like to discover the stunning valley of the Mukungwa river.
combo	"Absolutely loved the 2 day canoeing trip!
combo	Was a stunning location and such a fun activity!
combo	I thought it the guides were truly amazing - super organised, knew 100% what they were doing, made me feel safe and well taken care of but also had the most fun with them.
combo	Can’t recommend this enough."
combo	"Just an incredible experience.
combo	We did the brand new 2-day camping/canoeing trip on the Mbirurume river.
combo	To get to the point, DO IT!
combo	It was one of my favorite trips I've done in Rwanda, and I've done quite a few.
combo	It's really off-the-beaten-path and unique.
combo	It's a part of Rwanda most people haven't seen.
combo	Can't recommend enough!
combo	We got picked up by the awesome team in Kigali and drove to the campsite on Saturday (stopping for a nice, hearty lunch).
combo	The campsite was in one of the most remote areas of Rwanda I've ever been to.
combo	It was stunning in its beauty and tranquility.
combo	We got there early enough to hike around the area a bit, and then the team made us a nice dinner and we sat around the fire.
combo	The next morning we had a nice breakfast before setting off the begin the trip.
combo	The views on the ride are incredible, and once you are in the water they don't stop.
combo	They gave us some tips on canoeing that were very useful even for those of us who had canoed before.
combo	We canoed for a few hours before stopping for lunch and setting up a little rope swing to cool off in the river.
combo	Then we finished up our trip and were picked up and driven back to Kigali.
combo	It was so beautiful and relaxing, yet adventurous.
combo	The river is so much fun to paddle down and there is no shortage of children greeting you as you cruise along.
combo	The team just made the trip so easy and comfortable and fun for us.
combo	Thanks to Eloi, Yves, and Dan for the amazing experience.
combo	I will surely be back again!"
combo	Don't Leave Rwanda without Kingfisher Journeys.
combo	We've now done the following with them: standup and paddle on Kivu (and kayaking); canoeing on Ruhundo; twice on the Mkugwa.
combo	Each experience was unforgettable for all of us aged 8 - 50.
combo	The team is professional and amazing!
combo	Eloa and Yves are amazing - so friendly and accessible with tremendous knowledge of the birdlife.
combo	"An exhilarating worthwhile experience.
combo	Please do this when in Rwanda.
combo	Staff are very professional & knowledgeable.
combo	My wife is terrified by water bodies yet l, Yves, our guide managed to reassure her that she's completely safe.
combo	One of the best experiences out there."
combo	"KIngfisher Journeys made our trip to Rwanda an excellent vacation!
combo	The itinerary was perfectly arranged, the friendly staff and guides were professional and knowledgeable, and the activities made for great adventures.
combo	The canoe trip was a particular highlight with a backdrop of lovely scenery!"
combo	"We enjoyed canoeing on the river in Musanze a lot!
combo	Wonderful activity in Musanze and great for bird watching (crane, spoonbill and lots of other beautiful birds)."
combo	"Amazing experience worth doing with amazing guide (Eloi).
combo	The community on the banks is amicable and busy in their daily routine( fishing, planting, swimming..etc)"
combo	"Had a great afternoon kayaking along the shores of Lake Kivu around Gisenyi.
combo	We also had time to visit a small island, which was a perfect location for a swim in the lake."
combo	the only kayak company to offer you a full package of congo nile trail but done in the lake.
combo	From Rubavu to Karongi and further south to Nyamasheke.
combo	"We thoroughly enjoyed our half day kayaking trip on Lake Kivu and would highly recommend it.
combo	It was so easy to book through Kingfisher and they were great responding to queries.
combo	Also excellent value for money.
combo	The guide was superb and led the trip at a pretty easy relaxing pace and had excellent knowledge of the local birds and history of the area.
combo	It was surprising just how much distance we covered in the time and with only moderate effort.
combo	The stopover at the hot springs was great, although with the water at over 45 degrees it was literally a toe in and out!
combo	You will get wet so recommend wearing swimmers.
combo	The weather can also change pretty rapidly so make sure you put plenty of sunblock on.
combo	Excellent way to explore this are of Rwanda."
combo	"We were particularly impressed at Kingfisher's ability to organise this at extremely short notice (thanks Sharon and Sandrine).
combo	The route is very well devised, mostly on flat water through farmland but with a short stretch of relatively simple rapids.
combo	Plenty of bird life, a very close encounter with an otter and lots of swimming children trying to keep up with the canoe."
combo	"My friend and I spent a morning kayaking Lake Kivu with Kingfisher.
combo	I only wish we had more time because it was a beautiful experience.
combo	The weather was lovely, it was a Sunday so the locals were out in the plenty playing in the water and waving to us as we rowed by, and we had an amazing guide who made the day even more enjoyable.
combo	Eloi was exceedingly kind and easy-going.
combo	He was great to talk to and we learned so much about the area and the birds!
combo	He is quite the ornithologist.
combo	If you go, I recommend staying at Inzu Lodge and having a meal at Paradis Malahide.
combo	Eloi joined us for lunch there and it was wonderful.
combo	I can't recommend Kingfisher enough!"
combo	"My brother and I spent two days with Kingfisher.
combo	We went kayaking one day and canoeing another.
combo	They were extremely reliable and timely.
combo	We had a great experience with them.
combo	I would highly recommend exploring beautiful Rwanda with them.
combo	Our guide was Garcien, he was the best!
combo	I will be definitely going back for future trips with them."
combo	"A not to miss experience!
combo	Beautiful and very green landscapes, learn about agriculture, bird watching, fresh swimming, some emotions with 2 small rapids!
combo	And very nice and helpful guides!"
combo	Booked the Mukungwa canoeing trip at the last minute.
combo	The team was very accommodating and facilitated the trip even when we had a bunch of luggage.
combo	The canoeing trip was quite serene and the birds along the river are incredible!
combo	Eloi was a great guide.
combo	"We did one day kayak trip in Kibuye with our guide Eloi, he was so friendly and we had a really good time !
combo	We had lunch on the Peace Island where we were all alone and it was wonderful !
combo	At the end of the day my friend and I were tired so he kindly helped us by pulling us after his kayak !
combo	There is just a little negative point, the bottle of waters are very small (50cl) for the hole day, but we didn't brought ours because in the description email they mentioned that water was included during the day."
combo	"The trip was there for you to make of it what you might.
combo	It could be made as exciting, fast and as skilful as one wanted, or it could be taken as a slow and gentle drift down river, enjoying the landscape, birds and passing exchanges with onlookers.
combo	We enjoyed a bit of both.
combo	Our guide was very professional and engaging.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	"A very nice way to experience the nature and meet friendly locals.
combo	We saw a lot o birds and exchanged greeting with a number of people working the fields.
combo	The exciting parts consist of one very short, but rather powerful, rapid and a shorter stretch with fast flowing water.
combo	The security is excellent.
combo	Helmets are provided for the short rapid and there is back up help on land for the fast flowing stretch.
combo	Our guide was very professional, knowledgeable and nice."
combo	"This adventure with Kingfisher Journeys was an unforgettable experience.
combo	Although it started raining halfway through, the guides wanted to make us as comfortable as possible.
combo	We all drank coffee inside a house of a coffee farm until the rain passed.
combo	It was magical to see everything clear up and it didn't affect the rest of our day at all.
combo	It was a great day on the water and we finished the tour by having a picnic on an island."
combo	"I strongly recommend a 1,5-2h sunset trip on Lake Kivu.
combo	The pace is adjusted to your experience level, the guide was kind and helpful.
combo	Not to mention the views which were just amazing.
combo	Ask the guide to pass through the Hot Springs."
combo	My friends and I all thoroughly enjoyed our canoe trip with Gratien as our trip leader.
combo	The views were gorgeous and you are able to see many birds along the way.
combo	This is a great way to view the hills and valleys around Musanze!
combo	"We did the canoe trip with the guide Willy, he was very helpful and nice and the trip was fun.
combo	The scenery is beautiful and there are a lot of cool birds.
combo	We recommend the experience!"
combo	"For all fans of water sports this is a great opportunity to explore the Rwandan countryside.
combo	You see a lot of birds close to the water, and you are directly going through the fields seeing the local farmers working, surrounded by the mountains, the volcanoes as background.
combo	Everything was safe, Eloi our guide was giving instructions, some helpers were present to give a hand at difficult passages, but actually the path is rather on an easy difficulty level.
combo	I also rented the water-proof camera, which is nice to make a lot of interesting pictures from the countryside."
combo	"I've kayaked lake Kivu twice now with Kingfisher journeys and on both occasions the service was great and the experience amazing!
combo	Booking is easy and flexible, the staff are competent, professional and friendly.
combo	Highly recommend them!"
combo	A must to do when you stay in Gisenye.
combo	Except that it is a nice group activity it gives you also a total different view on the area around the lake.
combo	The sun set is amazing when you in the middle of Lake Kivu.
combo	To book this trip is so easy and simple!
combo	Just go on the website and check out the different activities.
combo	I also can recommend the Canoe Trip on Musanze river.
combo	"My husband and I had considered trekking the Congo Nile Trail but when we came across Kingfisher Journeys, we became excited about the idea of kayaking from Gisenyi to Kibuye!
combo	The only issue was that we had decided this fairly last minute so we got in touch with Steve from Kingfisher Journeys who organised our trip even at this late notice!
combo	A few days later we headed out on our 3-day kayaking adventure with our guide Gratien.
combo	The first day was fairly easy going and we stayed in a guesthouse with other kayakers heading in the opposite direction to us (Kibuye to Gisenyi) and their guide Yves who was also great.
combo	This lured us into a false sense of security - day 2 was much harder due to distance and some winds but Gratien gave us the motivation we needed to reach the beautiful island we were camping on.
combo	Day 3 we visited islands covered in monkeys and bats which were just amazing.
combo	It was a magical experience and Gratien was an amazing guide, I don't eat meat and I'm gluten intolerant but that absolutely wasn't a problem and Gratien ensured that I had more than enough food to eat to keep me sustained on our epic trip!"
combo	Had a great tour with Yves on a Lake Kivu kayaking trip.
combo	A great way to get a different perspective on the beautiful scenery around Lake Kivu.
combo	Looking forward to seeing the pictures that Yves took on the trip.
combo	"Beautiful scenery, relaxed pace and great team.
combo	Enjoyable half day of paddling with local flavour.
combo	Well organised."
combo	"This is one of the things you have to do when you are visiting this part of Rwanda!
combo	Fantastic scenery totally professional and super nice guide, and a tripcYou never forget.
combo	The birds, the fishermen, the nature and the vibe around it will stay in your soul!"
combo	"What a wonderful experience!
combo	Sabrine, our Guide was well spoken and punctual.
combo	She was very experienced,having done her training in Australia, and being a local Rwandan she really made our experience valuable with local knowledge.
combo	There was good birding on the banks of the river and you can expect to pass local farmers and fishermen on the route.
combo	Everyone waves and seems quite interested as to the whole canoe excursion.
combo	You don’t need experience for the trip but there is one part that you will get a little wet.
combo	Lots of fun.
combo	J"
combo	A fantastic way to see Musanze and more of Rwandan life.
combo	Very relaxing kayak with a great host.
combo	Excellent for bird spotting too.
combo	"This was definitely a highlight of our trip!
combo	The scenery was stunning, and the trip was so easy to organise we felt so relaxed and cared for.
combo	Our guide was great, super knowledgeable and we had a great time hanging out.
combo	The lunch was also delish and we were really glad we added it on!
combo	Our only regret is that we did a half day instead of a full, could have stayed out on the lake all day!"
combo	We fell in twice but canoeing was a great experience!
combo	This is also a must for bird watchers.
combo	Would definitely recommend!
combo	"I rarely write reviews, but in this situation, I couldn’t help myself.
combo	What a wonderful company!
combo	Yves guided me (just me!
combo	for two days in the sun and pouring rain (my choice on the rain, not his!
combo	along the coast, early in the morning at sunrise (again my choice), around tiny and big islands!
combo	Everything about the trip was wonderful - birds, otters, nature, coffee tour, yummy food!
combo	The guesthouse we went to was cute, small, and comfy.
combo	Yves was such good company!
combo	Great to talk to, wonderful insights, always felt safe, plan to stay in touch with him :) I recommend this trip to anyone!!
combo	Murakose cyane!
combo	☺️"
combo	Amazing time!!
combo	I would definitely recommend this to anyone coming to Rwanda.
combo	The setting of the canoe trip was absolutely gorgeous the whole way.
combo	Our guide / the staff were so helpful and flexible.
combo	Great value for money.
combo	Must do for anyone in the country!
combo	"We had very good communication online as well as by phone with the Kingfisher Journeys company.
combo	Rushya was waiting for us and the kayaks were ready to go, and we waited 15 min extra for 2 others to arrive but went ahead onto the lake as the sunset doesn't wait.
combo	Rushya took great effort to explain many facts about Lake Kivu, the communities and their activities and the special scenery we passed while kayaking on the lake.
combo	Unfortunately, there were too many clouds to see the beautiful sunset.
combo	We particular enjoyed the fishingboats going out at sunset, a magical and extraordinary sight."
combo	"Such a great opportunity, very beautiful scenery and friendly guides.
combo	You get to see 5 mountains clearly if the weather is permitting."
combo	"I did the full 4 days/3 nights Ginsenyi to Kabule.
combo	I was a little concerned about the amount of daily paddling since I turned 66 during the trip, however it was definetely manageable and I could have gone further each day if neccessary.
combo	Enjoyed the relaxed, no rushing pace of the 4 days as well as the guest houses and camping.
combo	The guest house the first day was basic but more than adequate for my needs.
combo	We chose the less expensive option the second night which was quite nice, although the more expensive resort type hotel did look enticing.
combo	Camping the last night was great, enjoyed being right on the lake for both sunset and sunrise, very peaceful.
combo	Awoke to the sound of the fishermen singing as they headed out in the early morning.
combo	I recommend this trip as a great way to see Lake Kivu from a different vantage point and to get a better sense of how the local people live on the Lake."
combo	"Thanks so much to Gratien who took us out on Lac Kivu for a very special sunset kayak.
combo	I was initially hesitant about kayaking, having not really done it before, and not wanting to get wet.
combo	I ended up loving it.
combo	The sunset on the lake was spectacular but the best bit was seeing the fishermen row out for the night on their beautiful boats singing and whistling songs to help them row in unison.
combo	We had another lovely kayak the next morning, and had enjoyed a short but peaceful canoe down the river at Musanze the day before, seeing many species of beautiful birds, and then having a perfect cappuccino at Crema coffee collective.
combo	Thanks to Steve for organising our short but amazing experience."
combo	"We had a little under two days to have fun in Rwanda after 5 days of work in Kigali and Steve organised everything for us perfectly.
combo	We packed in a canoe trip on the Mukungwa river, and two kayaking trips on Lake Kivu as well as having time to watch the Tour du Rwanda cycling race.
combo	Kingfisher provided a car and driver so we travelled in comfort and got back to the airport in good time for our flight on Saturday evening.
combo	The river trip is super easy and Eloi our friendly guide was knowledgeable about the birds and the people and villages we saw along the way.
combo	It is just wonderful to float down (and occasionally paddle!
combo	the calm river, taking the time to soak up the views and the wonderful birds that flitted everywhere.
combo	The highlight of the trip was going out on Lake Kivu at about 5pm, so we were at the mouth of the bay as the fishing boats were heading out for a night of fishing on the lake.
combo	They chanted and sang and thumped their oars to a rhythm as they paddled hard to get their heavy boats out onto the lake.
combo	The sun was setting and there was a beautiful pink light over it all.
combo	We could paddle our kayaks up quite close to the boats and watch them working.
combo	Our guide Gratien was really friendly and helpful and he showed us where we could swim by a little island.
combo	Thanks Kingfisher team!
combo	Another great experience with you all!"
combo	I had a fantastic weekend thanks to Kingfisher journeys.
combo	Our guide was so professional and helpful.
combo	The scenery was wonderful and relaxing.
combo	This trip can be great for families and friends also.
combo	"Willie our guide was charming and knowledgeable.
combo	The kayaks were well maintained.
combo	Book the 3 hours in the morning, it’s calm.
combo	The afternoon can bring winds and make the activity less enjoyable.
combo	There is the opportunity to have a massage or sit in some hot springs.
combo	Take some money and allow extra time and indulge.
combo	We were tight for time and regretted it.
combo	We also visited a new hotel called Kivu Paradise, next time we’ll stay there it’s lovely."
combo	I had a fantastic and idyllic trip kayaking down lake Kivu for 3 days.
combo	I would highly recommend Kingfisher's professional setup that still manages to keep a strong sense of adventure.
combo	Our family with 2 young children had lots of fun canoeing on River Mukungwa near Musanze.
combo	Beautiful scenery.
combo	It was our first time canoeing and the children were well looked after and instructed by the guides.
combo	Looking forward to kayaking on Kivu next!
combo	Highly recommended.
combo	Wonderfull kayaking in the morning and again in the evening at Lake Kivu.
combo	We would like to book again
combo	"Did the half day kayaking on a Sat AM and then half day mountain biking on Sun AM from Gisenyi - both were great and totally worth it.
combo	Kayaking on Kivu is beautiful and not too strenuous; Gracien was also a great host.
combo	Mountain biking was actually through Rwandan Adventures (different co) but booked via Kingfisher.
combo	Unfortunately our designated guide was sick but Kasunga stepped in and led us on a scenic but grueling ride up the winding roads of the Congo-Nile trail.
combo	Did a full 5+ hrs for a generous half-day, definitely enjoyed the downhill trails on the way back.
combo	Probably good to bring a snack; water is provided) Bit pricey in Rwanda but few/no alternatives and would both recommend and do it again."
combo	What a lovely trip.
combo	Great guide.
combo	Very knowledgeable and friendly.
combo	Great fun and amazing scenery.
combo	Has to be done while in Ruhengeri.
combo	"We had the three days kayaking trip form Gisenyi to Kibuye.
combo	We were three friends traveling together and we had the best time.
combo	The scenery was amazing, the guides were nice and helpful and it is such a fun way to discover the country.
combo	I would highly recommend doing a multiple-days trip rather than a single day, you het to see way more, enjoy more and have the time to appreciate the scenery and encounter with the locals.
combo	There is a possibility to spend a night camping on an island and that was clearly the highlight of our trip."
combo	"Our firm engaged Kingfisher to take staff on several activities.
combo	I went on a fantastic Mountain biking trip that showed me many different sides of Rwanda.
combo	We biked up to a volcano to take in the beautiful scenery.
combo	On the way there, we passed through villages and got a taste of local life and commerce.
combo	We also visited a micro hydropower plant and saw development firsthand.
combo	Our guides were experienced and professional--I can't recommend them more highly!"
combo	"Through the organization that I work for (Dalberg Advisors), I had a chance to experience what Kingfisher Journeys has to offer in terms of recreational activities.
combo	One word: amazing!"
combo	"We did the morning 3 hour Kayak trip and really enjoyed it.
combo	The kayaks were in good condition and the guide friendly, knowledgable and chilled.
combo	He took great photographs of us on the water.
combo	The conditions were perfect.
combo	Not too hot or too cold, no wind sunny day.
combo	The stop off at the hot spring was fun including the foot massage.
combo	Warning up front on the costs to visit the hot springs would have been good.
combo	Most enjoyable and highly recommended activity even for the not so fit like me."
combo	"I used Kingfisher journeys to book a safari in Akagera national park, canoeing in Musanze and a trek up Mt.
combo	Bisoke when my partner came to visit.
combo	The director, Steve, was very helpful at answering my questions and the field staff/guides were outstanding.
combo	Did I mention that Kingfisher is great for those who want to come back from an adventure with money in their bank account?"
combo	"Had a great time kayaking near Musanze with our 4 kids, age 5-12 and parents 60+...all of us loved it and could keep up very well.
combo	It took about 3 hours, scenery fantastic, lots of birds and lots of spectators along the shore :) definitely recommended for all ages!"
combo	"The kayaking trip was well organised.
combo	Thanks to Yves my guide for the day was professional, a good guy to have a conversation with as he was conversant with most topics from the history of the lake, community, politics.
combo	Looking forward to doing a different trip in 2019. thatnks"
combo	"The trip was well organised and the communication with Steve was very professional and timely.
combo	Paddling time in a very comfortable pace was 4-5 hours.
combo	Given the rough weather conditions, a spraydeck would have been helpful.
combo	We took one break each way and were offered bananas and cookies.
combo	Our guide was friendly.
combo	The Rushel Lodge was excellent and good value (credit cards accepted).
combo	We would have loved to stay longer.
combo	On the way back we paddled along a fish farm and went into the local hot springs.
combo	Overall, we thought the pricing is very much at the upper end for this trip.
combo	The lunch package of 10 dollars per person for one vegetarian sandwich was very expensive and also not needed as this is a half day trip for kayakers who are not beginners (we are not kayakers, but do canoeing with very little kayaking experience).
combo	For beginners this trip is not suitable."
combo	The canoe day trip is a lovely way to see some of the country side and communities along Mukungwa River in Rwanda.
combo	I wish it were longer!
combo	The company was very very responsive to my questions and last minute booking.
combo	My guide was knowledgeable and easy to talk to and generally a fun guy.
combo	The canoe ride was a good mix of mini-adventure (one small rapid and narrow passage through bamboo) and peaceful bobbing along the current.
combo	Not a hard paddle AT ALL - don't worry.
combo	Additional suggestion: I took a local bus from Kigali and back the same day.
combo	Highly suggest this option - was very safe and easy).
combo	ps Got picked up at local coffee shop (Crema) - that place had some really yummy food and coffee.
combo	Nice little craft shop out back.
combo	Also suggest checking out Jane Goodall exhibit - association office is close by Crema.
combo	"Sandrine was an amazing guide and worked out a great place to meet us before canoeing in Musanze.
combo	She was very knowledgeable, and we enjoyed being accompanied by her.
combo	The canoeing was so peaceful and enjoyable.
combo	I highly recommend Kingfisher!"
combo	"My colleague and I did the day trip, and wished we had opted for the multi-day trip!
combo	Everything was well organized and everyone at Kingfisher was extremely responsive and attentive.
combo	The equipment is in good shape, which contributes to a good paddling experience.
combo	The views were great and the water was calm.
combo	We also got a delicious lunch, which we later found out was from Calafia (an amazing restaurant in Gisenyi), so that was a nice touch!
combo	I think the only thing that could’ve been better is if we had stopped at a different island for lunch.
combo	The one we stopped at was, not particularly scenic and not very shady.
combo	It was within sight of a seemingly bigger (and more shady) island so I would have preferred that we pushed on to that island instead.
combo	I would definitely do a tour with these guys again."
combo	"My sister and I had so much fun on Mukungwa river.
combo	We had no experience in kayaking before but our guide Eloï helps us feel safe and enjoy the activity.
combo	It’s an amazing way to discover Rwanda’s country side, all the kids, farmers, birds along the river...volcanoes and mountains...🤗 You should try without any hesitation.
combo	Thank you for this unforgettable experience.
combo	Marie"
combo	"A little ""Ballade"" on Kivu lake from 4:30pm to 6pm.
combo	We had a beautifully calm lake, fishermen coming out to reach their night fishing stations.
combo	We came across a good 5 to 8 of their boats.
combo	A few stopped and we had great banter with them !
combo	Sunset pictures taken.
combo	Great guide who knew his business- I had never ever done any kayak but I loved it!
combo	Definitely a highlight of our little tour of Rwanda."
combo	"I am really happy that I did the canoe trip on the Musanze river.
combo	Eloi, the guide, is really amazing and he knows a lot about the river and all the animals there.
combo	The trip was so much fun and absolutely beautiful.
combo	I would highly recommend to do the canoe trip!!"
combo	"Two of us did a one-day trip.
combo	There were two others who also joined.
combo	The equipment, guide and lunch were all excellent.
combo	I can't think of a better way to get the mind off of work and daily stresses.
combo	Don't forget to reapply sunscreen!!"
combo	"We chose the 2 hour sunset kayaking on Lake Kivu.
combo	Our guide was very good at explaining to total beginners how to kayak, so we felt safe and confident.
combo	The Lake was beautiful, as was the sunset.
combo	The highlight was the fact that local fishermen were heading out to their night fishing so we were on the water with them: enchanting.
combo	One recommendation: have footwear that doesn't matter if it gets wet: you have to stand in the water to get into your kayak."
combo	"Very relaxing, winding canoes through a small river.
combo	The staff were patient and helpful, even getting me in and out of the boat.
combo	I would definitely do it again!
combo	Worth the money and trip to Musanze."
combo	"We were a school group of 12 persons from the UK.
combo	This was a fantastic experience; very professional and skilled guides, great briefing, top quality equipment and a range of exciting sites.
combo	A superb additon to any visit to Lake Kivu."
combo	"Sandrine did a great job of taking us down the river.
combo	She was very informative and even taught us the best way to paddle in certain areas.
combo	I would definitely suggest!
combo	It wasn't too long, but we were able to see some beautiful views as we went down the river and it was so neat to be able to say that we canoed down a river in Africa!!!
combo	Definitely encourage you to partake in this excursion!"
combo	"Canoeing downstream on the river, so very easy paddling, although our steering was a little hit and miss at times.
combo	The river was quite full and we had an exciting trip down some short rapids.
combo	We saw storks, ibis, weaver birds and bee hives.
combo	Our guide was excellent, we all really enjoyed the canoe trip.
combo	Thank you"
combo	"A really lovely break inbetween visiting gorilla family groups and hiking mount Bisoke.
combo	The river is peaceful and calm, and my guide was very professional and friendly.
combo	It was really interesting to have her commentary as we passed various agriculture, fishing, bee hives and people along the river bank.
combo	I'm a solo traveler, and felt completely at ease throughout.
combo	A great afternoon and an experience I would highly recommend."
combo	"Nice place to spend time and weekend with friends or couple.
combo	I most like the sunset on the lake, so beautifull."
combo	"We booked to do the sunset kayak from Gisenyi and we had such a fantastic evening paddle.
combo	We saw a beautiful sunset as we were paddling out over the mountains and on the way back in the traditional fishing boats came past us, singing and waving.
combo	It was great.
combo	Really good guide and all four of us had a great time.
combo	Thank you"
combo	"If you're looking for an enjoyable way to experience Lake Kivu, I highly recommend booking a kayak tour with Kingfisher Journeys.
combo	They offer hourly rentals, as well as half-day, full-day and evening tours (with a guide), with prices starting around $40 depending on which tour you choose (and depending on your residency).
combo	The company is professional and quick to respond to emails; the kayaks are high-quality; and the guide we had was excellent.
combo	He was really knowledgeable about the area, the volcanoes that surround the lake, good restaurants in Gisenyi, and more.
combo	What a treat!
combo	No complaints at all--had a great time doing the half-day (morning) kayak tour from about 8am to 11:30am.
combo	Be sure to wear sunscreen, since even in the morning, the sun can be pretty strong."
combo	"I did a half day kayaking tour of Lake Kivu.
combo	The kayaks were nice and stable, even for inexperienced paddlers.
combo	My guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the area.
combo	I learned lots about the birds that we saw around the lake.
combo	Lovely, relaxing experience."
combo	"I stumbled across another traveler who had met Steve, of Kingfisher Journeys, who was getting a group together to help train Alois, a new kayaking guide, in the finer points of paddling, safety procedures and customer service.
combo	Our job was to act out scenarios that a guide may face during a trip, as we purposely rolled kayaks, faked a heart attack and otherwise caused havoc.
combo	It's clear that Steve takes a lot of pride in his work and wants to put the best product out there for his clients.
combo	So not only was the quality training evident, but a very enjoyable time is assured.
combo	And Alois is well on his way to being a great guide!"
combo	We were able to go canoeing on Lake Kivu for free while Steve trained one of his staff Eloi.
combo	It was really good fun exploring the lake and interesting to see them practice the safety side of things (broken bones to heart attacks) as we were the test dummies.
combo	They knew what they were doing and I would 100% recommend.
combo	"Wonderful evening, paddling on Kivu lake.
combo	the weather had been rainy during the afternoon, but the company told the evening would be nice.
combo	they were right: the canoe trip was a very exciting event, around small islands and along the coast, with a superb sunset.
combo	the guide, Francis, spoke excellent French (which was good, since my English is poor) and had many things to tell about the surroundings.
combo	He was very careful about security and comfort.
combo	Two days later, we had a walking trip around the beautiful Ruhondo lake, with guide Eloi.
combo	Again, the guide was excellent, knowing perfectly the contry.
combo	We met local people, could see beautiful birds and finished with a lunch in a lovely hotel near the lake.
combo	The company was very professional, with quick answers to question, and the generous offer to replace canoe trip by walking, since other people in the group were afraid by the weather.
combo	I encourage everybody wishing to spend pleasant time in Northern Kivu to hav a look at Kingfisher activities."
combo	"Kingfisher Journey's customer service is excellent.
combo	Not only were emails responded to quickly and helpfully but when (with huge regret) we had to cancel our kayaking plans, the company kindly refunded the full fee (even though this goes against their own booking conditions).
combo	We look forward to returning to Rwanda next year, when I hope we can rebook with Kingfisher Journeys"
combo	"This was an amazing day out with walking, a boat trip, good food, and a fantastic variety of birds.
combo	I was very lucky to be the first person to do this walk accompanied by a friendly young Rwandan guide who was full of good information about the lake, the people and the birds we saw.
combo	The scenery is absolutely fabulous, with the reflections on the water, the green hills around and the 6 volcanoes towering ahead of us.
combo	We saw a huge variety of birds, and just walked at a good pace along an easy grassy path most of the way, then a bit of a scramble over some volcanic rocks (old lava flow), past an underground stream that bubbled out into the lake, and through a section of high and dense bamboo and shrubbery.
combo	We stopped to chat to some friendly children, watched villagers loading boats, cutting grass and washing clothes... all the normal daily life, and miles away from the nearest road.
combo	There was only the sound of birds and the wind in the trees.
combo	We finished with a ride in a canoe with two local men paddling to get us to a little restaurant - again just the sound of the paddles in the water and the beauty of the volcanoes and clouds reflecting in the lake.
combo	Steve and his team went way beyond my expectations to organise this as I didn't have much time or the energy to walk up to the top of a volcano.
combo	I felt very safe (I was on my own).
combo	It was a wonderful way to experience daily life and the beauty of Rwanda, while also getting a good hike (about 12 km) and a lovely brochettes and beer lunch at the end of it!"
combo	"We absolutely loved our experience with Sandrene and this company.
combo	On time, well prepared, gave clear directions and so enjoyable!
combo	Thank you."
combo	"I canoed about 20 KM to and from Cyimbili in a 1 day.
combo	I had limited time and had to change my trip last minute, but they were super accommodating and made it an easy adjustment.
combo	I had a great day on the water.
combo	We stopped at hot springs, islands, paddled by the beautiful rolling hills and coffee plantations of Rwanda, then stopped had a delicious lunch at Cyimbili Coffee Plantation.
combo	Gratien was a great guide, his company and encouragement made the experience even more memorable.
combo	Looking forward to a future trip if I return to Rwanda!
combo	Also, don't forget sunscreen!"
combo	"We went on Kingfisher’s afternoon canoe trip near Musanze.
combo	A fantastic trip.
combo	Loi was a great guide, fun and knowledgable about all the birdlife that surrounds you as you canoe.
combo	Loved getting to spend time in the countryside, and meeting lots of the local children as you canoe around.
combo	Thanks so much Kingfisher, we’ll definitely be back for another adventure."
combo	"Had a great care ride with our guide Eloi- the countryside is gorgeous and you are paddling amongst the fields where people are working with birds all around, and kids jumping in the water and waving.
combo	There is one set of just exciting enough rapids and a narrow channel which also made for some comic moments but otherwise paddling is easy.
combo	Highly recommended"
combo	We have done a few of the Kingfisher activities and we have loved all of them.
combo	Paddling into the sunset on lake Kivu and canoeing close to Muzanse was a lot of fun.
combo	We are looking forward to the next adventure with the Kingfisher team!
combo	"With a group of 6 ( 4 adults , 2 children 13/15 ) we did a morning river canoe trip.
combo	It was a fantastic experience with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, volcanoes and birds.
combo	The kids really enjoyed the "" self canoeing "" with some challenges.
combo	Our guide Eloi was great!
combo	He knew a lot about the nature and people around us!
combo	We also appreciate very much that he took photos from us which we got a view days later per mail.
combo	Thank you so much !!"
combo	"We organised a one day twin lakes bike tour from Musanze with kingfisher journeys.
combo	The actual tour was provided by Rwandan Adventures with an excellent guide, Olivier.
combo	We cycled about 30km over about 5 hours, so it wasn’t super taxing, but we went through beautiful agricultural areas before getting a boat across lake Ruhondo to an island for lunch.
combo	It was my husband’s birthday and they had kindly organised a cake for him which was a nice surprise.
combo	After lunch we got the boat back to the mainland and went up a big hill for a view of the second lake.
combo	Overall lovely day out!"
combo	"A friend living in Rubavu recommended us this tour and we weren’t disappointed.
combo	We went as a family (two adults, kids aged 9 and 12), and were really impressed by the efficient organisation of the tour: timely and safe transport, life vests and helmets provided, possibility to rent a waterproof camera, good communication along the way, two guides assuring everyone’s safety.
combo	The boat meanders through the fields below the main kigali road covered in flocks of birds, past bamboo forest, through a class A rapid, and a narrow bamboo canal with fast flowing waters... 10 km in all, just long enough to continue enjoying it and not get tired.
combo	Our kids loved it too, and held their own in the canoe with us.
combo	We’ve lived ten years in Rubavu, my husband is from this region and this is the best local tour we’ve ever come across, a whole new perspective on Musanze.
combo	I really recommend it!"
combo	"Four friends and I did the late afternoon session and it was one of the most amazing activities we’ve done during our whole Rwandan trip.
combo	Some of us who cannot swim were extremely nervous at the start but our guide, Gracien, was so reassuring and a great instructor.
combo	I would thoroughly recommend the Kingfisher Journeys kayaking experience for the breathtaking views and the sheer fun of being out on the water!"
combo	"We really enjoyed our canoe trip near Musanze.
combo	We weren't very skilled (!
combo	but still had a great time, and the views make it really worthwhile.
combo	The booking website is easy to use.
combo	Recommended!"
combo	"Our guide was Gratien for a 2 person afternoon kayak + sunset tour.
combo	We had a small amount of difficulty finding the meeting point, Paradis Malhide, but as soon we we arrived we had the most amazing time!
combo	Gratien pointed out many birds including the Fish Eagle, African Eagle, Kingfisher, two species of Cormorants, and the Red Headed Bishop!
combo	He made sure we also got a great view of the volcano and since it was Saturday, we got to hear many weddings taking place along the beautiful shore!
combo	Just as the sun was beginning to set and the fisherman about to set out on their uniquely structured boats, it began to rain and we quickly paddled to shore to watch the sunset and fishing take place from there.
combo	Without us inquiring at all, within 4 hours Kingfisher Journeys had already refunded our sunset addition, despite our complete satisfaction with our day.
combo	Getting on Lake Kive is a MUST DO to fully take in the landscape.
combo	We were both young and reasonably fit, and could probably have done a full day or multi-day trip no problem, but were happy with our half day that resulted in slightly sore arms!
combo	The guide brought waterbottles so we did not need ours - We wore a swimsuit under shorts and a t-shirt and it was appropriate, but we brought more conservative/night time clothes to change into after - Dinner at the Paradis Malhide afterwords was spectacular, especially the Tilapia!
combo	** If you work for a NGO you may be eligible for a discount!"
combo	"The evening paddle on Kivu was straight out of a watercolor painting - it was a gorgeous evening with Francis as a superb guide.
combo	I highly recommend it - relaxing with a little bit of effort, high quality equipment, and perfect timing and location.
combo	We watched the fishing boats going out just was we came back in.
combo	All in all, highly recommend Kingfisher!"
combo	"We had a fantastic time canoeing on Mukungwa river, we did the afternoon trip and had beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and volcanoes and saw lots of bird life.
combo	Thanks so much!"
combo	"My guide was Graciene for a solo kayaking trip from Gisenyi on Lake Kivu in late May,2018.
combo	Excellent relaxing trip with informative guide.
combo	Since I was alone he tailored it to my needs as well as giving suggestions on where to go.
combo	I highly recommend!"
combo	"The 2 day round trip to Cyimbili was wonderful.
combo	The trip was well organized and the owner was very responsive as I planned my visit.
combo	Francois, the guide, was highly knowledgeable, a great guide and a convivial travel companion.
combo	I wish I had the time for more days paddling on the lake."
combo	"I stopped the night at La SIlene - a good value local motel with clean rooms and friendly staff - where the Kingfisher river cruise begins and ends.
combo	After a comfortable night and good dinner I was ready for some adventure .... having been recommended to me I was really looking forward to experiencing the local countryside.
combo	I thoroughly enjoyed the ride down river assisted and educated about the bird life by Eloa, a knowledgeable and friendly guide.
combo	The water level cruise through fields was a great opportunity to take in local farming, exchange a few shouted hellos and pleasantries and get up close with the colourful birds.
combo	A great way to spend an afternoon even in the rain.#"
combo	"My wife and I went on two adventures with Kingfisher Journeys last month.
combo	We first went on the kayaking sunset tour on Lake Kivu.
combo	Our guide, Francis, was very personable and flexible.
combo	We were scheduled for a morning tour but had to postpone due to heavy rain.
combo	He patiently waited it out with us for 30 minutes and offered to reschedule for the evening tour.
combo	We enjoyed his immense knowledge and insights on Rwanda and his home, Gisenyi.
combo	The tour was beautiful and peaceful, providing views back onto the coast that we couldn't have seen from anywhere else.
combo	Francis even took pictures of us which were emailed later.
combo	A great addition!
combo	We also went on a canoe trip in Musanze with our guide Eloi.
combo	He is equally as knowledgeable a guide and made us feel comfortable as amateurs (my first time canoeing).
combo	Meandering along the river we spotted different birds, plenty of children wanting to say hello and adults busy farming and fishing.
combo	We got so comfortable by the end we were gondoliers.
combo	There were even a couple of unexpected adventures along the way.
combo	Overall, the trip planning process with Steve, Francis and Eloi was really easy and both trips very well organized and executed.
combo	The equipment used was also very high end and in great condition.
combo	We highly recommend these tours as fun and active additions to any Rwanda trip."
combo	"I've done this trip twice now with Kingfisher, once in Jan 2017 and once today with my partner.
combo	Really lovely morning out with always a great guide.
combo	Highly recommended, views on the water are lovely."
combo	"We loved our experience with Kingfisher Journeys!!
combo	Communication and booking were quick and hassle free.
combo	The paddleboarding experience takes place at the Serena Hotels private beach.
combo	They provided life jackets and the instructors were hilarious and made our first time paddleboarding a blast.
combo	It was also our first time canoeing (two girls), so we were worried it would be hard.
combo	But we had a wonderful guide (Eloi), who taught us the basics and was knowledgeable about the different birds we encountered during our 3 hour canoe trip.
combo	Bring the sunscreen with you, a hat would also be nice- the sun is brutal.
combo	To get to musanze from gisenyi, you can take the Ritco bus for 1300 rfr.
combo	Steve will organize to have you picked up at the Musanze bus station.
combo	Highly highly recommend this company!
combo	They also run 4day kayaking trips to the smaller islands on Lake Kivu- I will have to come back for that :)!"
combo	"The 2 hour journey to Musanze is worth it !
combo	Fantastic way to see the river valley, beautiful scenic views including volcanoes and local farmers & fishers who all wave greetings as you float by.
combo	Our instructor & tour guide Sandrine was brilliant with her 4 novices & we felt like pros by the end of the trip.
combo	She was patient, encouraging & we felt in safe hands the whole way.The whole experience was first class and great fun.
combo	The best morning ever on the river.
combo	Thank you Kingfisher Journeys - we will do it again."
combo	"I had an outstanding trip on Lake Kivu with Francis.
combo	I just signed up for a half day plus the sunset tour since I was limited on time, but I really wish I'd been able to do more.
combo	Francis is an excellent guide who pointed out different bird species to me and explained some of the cultural things we saw along our way.
combo	He's a great conversationalist who seems able to talk knowledgeably about any subject!
combo	I really enjoyed spending a few hours on the water with him.
combo	Sadly the weather didn't cooperate with sunset plans, but Francis was very communicative about that possibility.
combo	And when I got back to town, the money had already been refunded to my account without my even having to ask!
combo	I am so impressed that Kingfisher Journeys is such a young company and yet they were so responsive and professional every step of the way.
combo	If you are in Gisenyi (or Kibuye!
combo	), definitely take advantage of this opportunity to see Lake Kivu up close while learning about life along the shoreline.
combo	And treat yourself to some sambaza at the end!"
combo	great little trip out on Lake Kivu with our guide.
combo	well organised and no hassle.
combo	thanks.
combo	we will be back.
combo	"Thank you Kingfisher Journeys, my family had a fab adventure on the river with you, thank you for a lovely New Year adventure, good for all ages and abilities and languages, I look forward to returning to Rwanda and trying out one of your other adventures"
combo	"We did the 2-day kayaking trip on Lake Kivu.
combo	It was easy to book and well organised.
combo	Our guide, Francis, was very friendly and knowledgeable.
combo	He was happy to go at our place but also suggested an interesting route.
combo	We'd definitely recommend Kingfisher Journeys."
combo	"Great fun, nice guides, beautiful scenery!
combo	Went for kayaking, canoeing and peddle boarding all in one day.
combo	Was fun for both me, who loves water and sports, and my boyfriend, who's just getting to like those kind of things."
combo	"Had a great, well organised 2 day kayaking trip on Lake Kivu.
combo	Steve and Gratian were both really helpful in the booking process and Gratian was a very helpful and friendly guide.
combo	Would recommend Kingfisher Journeys to anyone in the area keen to explore via the water.
combo	Thanks to all the team"
combo	"We did a 4 day trip south from Gisenyi and had a great time.
combo	Equipment was all good quality.
combo	Our guide, Francis, was exceptional.
combo	He made the trip very interesting by explaining all of the activity that we saw on the shoreline and he was a font of knowledge about Rwandan customs and culture.
combo	I feel that I now know the country so much better.
combo	The scenery is spectacular, particularly the islands around Kibuye.
combo	The distance each day were the right balance between challenging and fun, but needed some level of physical fitness.
combo	There was a good emphasis on safety.
combo	Accommodation (needs to be booked separately) was simple, but comfortable.
combo	The Cymbili Guest House and Anastasia’s good Rwandan cooking was a great place to stay.
combo	We have done several kayaking tours in different parts of the world and this was as good as the best.
combo	We ended up with a great feeling of being physically tired but mentally rested and refreshed."
combo	"Steve, Sandrine and the team were very professional.
combo	The way in which the team introduced everyone and respected the community is great.
combo	Those that enjoy birdwatching and enjoying some adventure this is a must to do in Rwanda, some of the only non hippo and croc waters to be able to canoe in.
combo	Safe enjoyable experience"
combo	"The Kingfisher staff and equipment where all excellent.
combo	The staff gave great instructions and were always on hand to help at various points on the trip as well as the guides that were with us the whole time.
combo	This excellent service combined with the beautiful scenery, made for a wonderful team building experience for our students.
combo	Kingfisher canoes were also excellent at working to our time table, which meant we did 3 trips with them (in groups of 12 to 14 students/teachers) over the course of two days."
combo	"Had a great time canoeing in Musanze with Eloi and Steve.
combo	Both were really friendly and helpful, collected us and dropped us back at our hotel.
combo	The canoeing is calm and relaxing with beautiful scenery.
combo	Would and will recommend it to anyone and everyone of all ages!"
combo	"We booked the Kivu and Musanze trips during our stay and had great service from Steve, who was very helpful during the booking process.
combo	The sunset kayak was very beautiful (although due to the cloud not much of a sunset!
combo	), but the views across the lake were stunning and our guide was good fun and full of information.
combo	We would have liked to have seen and spoken to the fishermen, but otherwise the trip was good fun.
combo	The Musanze canoe trip was beautiful, we had perfect weather and got to see a slice of rural life in Rwanda.
combo	It's a shame that we didn't speak to many locals a bit more interaction would have been great, especially as the length of the trip was long, but after a day trekking, it was a good value activity to do."
combo	"Having kayaked at home in UK and abroad, this was one of the best run trips.
combo	Really good quality equipment, fluent English speaking guide, mellow paddling and a flexible itinerary for the group skill level.
combo	Will do a longer one next time.
combo	Thanks"
combo	We went out for an evening kayak paddle.
combo	The guide was good and easy to chat with.
combo	We were able to see the sunset and the volcano in Congo.
combo	We stopped to chat with some fishing boats and got some information about the local flora and fauna.
combo	My only suggestion would be that the sunset trip leave a little earlier this time of the year as the time the sun went down cut our trip a little short.
combo	I would definitely use Kingfished again and plan on booking a multiple day trip in the future.
combo	"This was a perfect half day trip.
combo	We came to Musanze from Kigali and returned the same day by bus.
combo	Meeting up with the group was easy and our instructor was informative and organized.
combo	This is a great way to see the countryside and the mountains.
combo	I really liked that our guide took pictures throughout the trip so we didn't have to take our phones on the water.
combo	All round, highly recommend Kingfisher Journeys and this sightseeing trip."
combo	"I had a great time, the guide Eloi and organising the trip with Steve was well prepared and very reliable and friendly.
combo	I felt safe all the time and took some beautiful pictures.
combo	I can highly recommend booking a tour with Kingfisher.
combo	Thank you very much!
combo	Dirk"
combo	"We picked to go Kayaking as our last activities in Rwanda, and we are so glad we saved the best for last!
combo	We were a team of 5 and Steve was very accommodating to help us all get onto the water and finding an extra boat for us.
combo	He was also able to arrange a trip from Karongi as this was better suited for us!
combo	Once we were on the water, Francis was an amazing guide and instructor, who was supportive the who way!
combo	He also had excellent knowledge of the area.
combo	He also had a waterproof camera and took some wonderful photos of us Kayaking!
combo	We took the two day kayaking tour and we'd defiantly recommenced it for experienced kayakers, and recommend the shorter tours for those less able or confident.
combo	It was hard work, but staying on the private island over night was wonderful.
combo	Camping was wonderful and the meal that was made for us filled out huge appetite from all the paddling.
combo	The staff we so amazingly friendly and would reccomend King Fisher to anyone wanting to see a slice of Rwanda from it's largest lake!"
combo	We had a sunny day and a great trip.
combo	We can highly recommend this tour.
combo	Many thanks to the Kingfisher team:
combo	"We enjoyed the trip very much with Sandrine and her motivated and professional team.
combo	The experience was very nice, from the booking over the phone to the pick-up at the hotel, the professional gear and the boat trip on the river.
combo	Living in Rwanda now for several years, we saw almost everything in the country.
combo	This experience is really a hidden gemstone."
combo	"My friend and I arrived in Gisenyi with no specific plan.
combo	Whilst having a delicious cup of African coffee, we found out about Kingfisher Journeys but didn't think we'd be able to book something last minute.
combo	Following a call with Steve, the director, and a couple of whatsapp messages, we had booked a half day kayaking the following day.
combo	Steve could not have been any more helpful.
combo	And he was doing all of this whilst outside Rwanda!
combo	The following day we were greeted by Gratien, our happy guide.
combo	We entered the water and had the most incredible adventure; visiting a private island, learning about the local birds, resting our feet in a hot spring whilst having a chat with some of the locals and finally heading further out to have a glimpse of DRC.
combo	Throughout the session, Gratien told us loads of interesting facts and stories.
combo	You could tell he loves his job and his smile and passion was very infectious!
combo	Even when my arm muscles were aching, I wanted to keep going.
combo	We had to leave the following morning, otherwise we would have been back the next day!
combo	If you're in Rwanda, make sure you spend some time in Gisenyi and book a kayaking adventure with Kingfisher Journeys for a memory you will not forget!"
combo	"Canoeing along the winding river in Musanze was a fantastic way to spend the morning.
combo	Sandrine was brilliant in every way and my partner and I had a lot of fun.
combo	Although trekking in the Virungas is enjoyable it is also insanely expensive, so we were delighted when we discovered Kingfisher Journeys as a great way to see more of the area!"
combo	"Three friends friends and I went canoeing on a Tuesday morning in between school terms.
combo	We really enjoyed this activity.
combo	Sandrine, our tour guide, was nice and personable.
combo	Because the Rwandan president was going to be in Musanze speaking, they picked us up at our hotel in Musanze at 7:30 and drove us to the river.
combo	There were 6 of us total on the trip, plus Sandrine, and we had a very nice and relaxing morning canoeing down the river.
combo	She gave a brief overview of the trip and some safety precautions, but since we all had been canoeing before, she didn't belabor the point.
combo	Overall, we were on the water for about 2.5 hours.
combo	The winding nature of the river meant one friend and I ended up in the reeds more times than not, but no one was injured.
combo	There was also a very small, short rapid that was fun, and one canoe flipped, which was hilarious for everyone watching.
combo	We enjoyed chatting with each other, the other couple on the trip, and Sandrine.
combo	And also calling out greetings to the children and local Rwandans working by the river.
combo	It was an enjoyable and chill morning activity.
combo	Sandrine and another staff members took photos of us at several points during the trip and emailed them to us.
combo	They then dropped us off back in Musanze around 12.
combo	A woman in our group is already planning to bring her parents back and do this trip again next year."
combo	"My husband and I had a great afternoon canoeing near Musanze, with fantastic views of the countryside.
combo	Our guide, Sabrine, was friendly and helpful.
combo	The equipment (life jackets, helmets, paddles) was clean and in good condition.
combo	We were picked up and dropped off at our hotel, which was very convenient!"
combo	A gentle meander in the canoes through lovely scenery with views of the volcanoes and many beautiful birds.
combo	"We are tour operators who were recently in Rwanda on the usual catch-up to review the existing and experience the new.
combo	I was referred to Steve by another tour operator (it's great how they work together!
combo	and Steve very graciously hosted us on a Lake Kivu evening kayak to see the fishermen and then on the Musanze canoe trip.
combo	Both are excellent additions to a Rwanda trip and highly recommended.
combo	Really passionate operators are a rarity in Rwanda and should be supported wherever possible.
combo	Steve is one operator who desperately wants to provide a long-term, sustainable business for his employees to manage and own, long after he has left.
combo	And he has passionately trained and up-skilled his guides to provide safe, enjoyable and great-value experiences.
combo	Thank you to Francis and Sandrine for great trips."
combo	"We spent an amazing afternoon with Sandrine from Kingfisher Journeys canoeing along the river in the foothills of the volcanoes.
combo	Saw many birds including; Ibis, Egrit, Weaver birds and of course, a Kingfisher.
combo	It was fun and a brilliant way to see rural Rwanda.
combo	I recommend this activity to anyone who has a day and wants something different."
combo	Spent a lovely afternoon canoeing in Musanze with Sandrine as our guide.
combo	It was both leisurely and exciting with the two smaller rapids.
combo	If youre in Musanze for a day or two highly recommend this.
combo	A great way to see a different part of Musanze.
combo	It was a lot of fun to see how all the kids knew Sandrine and am looking forward to doing other adventures with Kingfisher Journeys!
combo	"Canoeing with Kingfisher Journeys was an absolutely wonderful experience - I would definitely do it again and recommend it to any visitors in Musanze!
combo	The views are incredible and Sandrine, the guide, was fantastic.
combo	It is a relaxing half day experience and a great complement or alternative to some of the other activities in the area."
combo	Great half day activity to add to gorilla trip.
combo	Friendly staff good views of volcanoes!
combo	Fun afternoon
combo	"A wonderful experience--our second time canoeing in Musanze with Sandrine.
combo	We recommend it and will do it again with future guests.
combo	The view of the volcanoes while canoeing is stunning, and it's fascinating to see all the bird life, crops, and local residents farming during the easy paddle."
combo	"My girlfriend and I were recommended to Kingfisher by a friend who lives in Kigali.
combo	We're so glad she told us about it because it was exactly what we were looking for as an alternative/compliment to the gorilla treks!
combo	We had a relaxing and entertaining paddle that snaked through the local farmland.
combo	Sandra (our guide) is incredible, the equipment is top-notch, and the viewpoint they provide to Rwanda is refreshing.
combo	Absolutely recommend!"
combo	"if you're looking for action, probably this is not the activity you want.
combo	It was a nice relaxing morning in the river, where you can puddle slowly to enjoy the scenery.
combo	No experience needed."
combo	"Headed down to Musanze with my crew and booked a canoe trip.
combo	Sandrine, our canoe guide, was really nice and she taught us a lot of neat tricks!!
combo	Loved the small rapids and the sights of the mountains at a distance.
combo	The terrain was simply magnificent and paddling downstream was a very enjoyable treat.
combo	We attracted a lot of passer by attention and seeing them come to watch us at the rapids and the local kids joining us for a swim was a nice experience!
combo	Definitely doing that again!!"
combo	"In a place where the main attraction is gorilla trekking its great that this experience is also available.
combo	Equipment is good, and Sandrine was very clear with her instructions and advice.
combo	The trip was approx 3 hours and is a splendid way to see some beautiful countryside.
combo	9 of us took the trip, all pretty much novices, and none of us ended up swimming!
combo	We were advised not to bother taking shoes, but i would recommend some wet shoes if you have them as its a bit slippy and stoney at the exit point.
combo	You could potentially do this on the same day as gorillas, but unless you have boundless energy you might be better doing them on separate days as both are pretty physical.
combo	Pick up was from a hotel in town, which was convenient."
combo	"My wife and I had heard great feedback and been meaning for some time to do this canoeing adventure with Kingfisher Tours in Musanze.
combo	Well, we were not disappointed and unreservedly recommend it, if you wish for a relaxing and great day out with spectacular views of Rwandan river wildlife, lush farmland and impressive mountains/volcanoes.
combo	The welcome by the locals along the river was also truly amazing and special.
combo	Our guide, Sandrine, was brilliant and patient with us all.
combo	The trip was well organized with excellent equipment.
combo	In short, a unique way to spend a day in Rwanda!"
combo	"We spent 6 hours in total with Francis.
combo	He is engaging, helpful and kind.
combo	We truly enjoyed our day with him, what an incredible ambassador for Rwanda.
combo	Steve, who does the organizing, will get back to you immediately.
combo	He is professional and flexible (I messed up my date of booking and he arranged for a day earlier with very little notice).
combo	Myself, my wife and my two teenaged daughters had a great day.
combo	Going back out for a short while to see the local fisherman get ready for their night of fishing as the sun sets as a beautiful thing to do.
combo	Very highly recommended...and bring your sunblock, if you haven't done a lot of kayaking, like us, you might find that you can even burn the back of your hands!"
combo	"I had the chance to do this three-hour canoe paddle with Steve this past weekend.
combo	It was a great way to see the lush farm land in the mountains of Rwanda.
combo	In addition to the spectacular river wildlife, much of the journey ambles through fields of potato, sugar cane, and bean plants.
combo	One can track the vistas of the nearby volcanoes in various spots along the way and see plenty of kingfishers, weaver birds (and weaver bird nests), and ibises along the way.
combo	Steve was a great guide--knowledgeable about the area and wildlife and a lifetime of adventure trip leading experience.
combo	Although the paddling was mostly in flatwater, there is one Class II rapid to play in and other parts of the river in which the flow picks up a bit.
combo	To my knowledge, Kingfisher Journeys is the only canoe and kayak company in Rwanda, and Steve is doing a great job to try and extend this kind of travel experience for the country.
combo	I look forward to a kayak trip with Kingfisher on Lake Kivu during a future trip."
combo	"We took our three children canoeing down the river near Musanze with Kingfisher Journeys and cannot recommend it highly enough!
combo	What a fantastic day out!
combo	The company is super professional, well-organised and confidence-inspiring with excellent new equipment, proper life jackets and highly skilled guides.
combo	The river is pretty calm for most of the journey (a three hour trip in total), but in the parts where it was rougher the guide was extremely attentive about stopping so the younger children could walk along the banks for that part of the river and miss the rapids!
combo	The views over the volcanoes and surrounding countryside are absolutely beautiful we loved spotting all the bird life along the banks: egrets, weaver birds, kingfishers, ibis, and the occasional heron.
combo	We strongly recommend this to any families looking for a different way to spend a day in Rwanda."
combo	"We've lived in Rwanda for three years now and I can honestly say that our day spent canoeing on the river near Musanze with Kingfisher Journeys was one of the best days here yet!
combo	We took our three children and were accompanied by Steve, who was an excellent, patient and calm guide (even in the moments when the river became a bit faster and a little more skill was needed!
combo	It gave us a totally different perspective of Rwanda as we paddled through beautiful quiet countryside, overlooked only by the volcanoes and distant hills, spotting kingfishers, ibis, weaver birds, egrets and the occasional heron.
combo	We looked out for otters too, but I think our noisy children might have scared them away!
combo	I particularly appreciated the way that Kingfisher Journeys works with the local communities along the river so that there are helpful hands along the way at points where the canoes need to be manoeuvred over log bridges or the river becomes shallow.
combo	All in all, excellently managed, extremely professional, safe and a brilliant family day out.
combo	I cannot recommend it highly enough!"
combo	"Canoeing in Musanze is a wonderful way to see a slice of rural Rwandan life.
combo	Meandering along the river, through fields with the mountains alongside and birds flying past – it's a really beautiful part of the world.
combo	I was a little cautious when the idea of canoeing was first suggested, as I had never done it before and I am not a strong swimmer.
combo	But I was in excellent hands with Sandrine – she was a patient and reassuring teacher.
combo	She had all the required safety gear and the equipment was modern.
combo	I highly recommend this trip, especially as a relaxing afternoon activity for those who have done the gorilla trek in the morning."
combo	"Gratien, of Kingfisher Journeys, was so professional and so observant of every detail of our full days kayaking along the shores of Lake Kivu … it allowed us to really relax and enjoy every moment.
combo	It was a pleasure to see my three teenagers,(18,16 and 14) have a laugh with him, and invite him to kayak on the south coast of Ireland !!
combo	If my kids all say someone is good, then they must be 'good' Well done Gratien and well done Kingfisher.
combo	Oh btw, do go for that fifth kayak … in case we come back!
combo	John, West Cork, Ireland"
combo	"I travelled to Rwanda & DRC with my family last month and I have to say the whole experience was brilliant.
combo	We saw gorillas and climbed volcanoes yet our kayak on lake Kivu was a real highlight for me.
combo	Gratien our wonderful instructor took us out for a wonderful day exploring the lakes inlets.
combo	Although we were all hot and sweaty by the end, the food on the island and the overall good conversation and fun times really left me wanting more.
combo	Gratien himself with his near perfect English and wide eyed smile was always great to keep in touch and contacted us later to go back out on the lake for paddle boarding.
combo	Thoroughly enjoyed it, don't give it a miss."
combo	"...From the water!
combo	this was an exceptional way to see the country.
combo	It was lovely and our guide Gratien was courteous, knowledgeable and safety-minded.
combo	Even though we had a rainy day - it was so peaceful and calm on the lake!
combo	it was simply lovely."
combo	Lake Kivu is STUNNING and this is the perfect way to explore.
combo	We went kayaking for the morning.
combo	You can look up to the hills of Rwanda and we even saw the volcano.
combo	The pace isn't too strenuous.
combo	It was an enjoyable morning!
combo	They also take pictures and email them so I'm looking forward to this!
combo	"My friends and I had a brilliant afternoon (about 3 hours) kayaking around the beautiful Lake Kivu with our guide, Francis.
combo	Francis was a fantastic guide - as well as being very likeable and great to spend time with, he enabled us to tailor the tour to our own preferences and was very knowledgeable about the area.
combo	We also added on the sunset kayaking, and watching the sun go down while the fishermen went out to the lake, singing, was very special.
combo	I would highly recommend this tour, it was one of our highlights of our trip to Rwanda and a great way to see the lake.
combo	Steve (the owner) was also very helpful in helping us organise the trip, and concerned that we had a great time."
combo	"Canoeing near Musanze was a fantastic, relaxing experience.
combo	Sandrine was a wonderful guide, very patient and skilled.
combo	We loved the beautiful scenery, all of the birds, and even the kids who would swim after us or jump off the bridge to splash us as we went by.
combo	Overall, a completely enjoyable experience for novices or experienced canoers.
combo	Highly recommended."
combo	"We did a half day kayak trip on Lake Kivu and it was a phenomenal morning.
combo	Gratien was our guide and he was incredible - very friendly, tailored the day to what we wanted to do, and explained a lot of history and context, providing great local knowledge.
combo	Even if you are a beginning kayaker (which I would put my wife and I at), it's a very manageable trip.
combo	Would highly recommend - was the best thing we did during our time at Lake Kivu."
combo	"Very last minute, my dad and I decided to go kayaking on Lake Kivu on our last day in Gisenyi.
combo	This was no problem at all for our guide Gratien.
combo	It was a wonderful experience and a beautiful way to explore the lake!
combo	We could watch the fishermen from upclose in the kayaks, which was really cool and the sunset wasn't too bad either.
combo	;) The view in combination with our guide made it an unforgetable experience!"
combo	"To celebrate a friend's birthday , we went on a canoe ride with Kingfisher journeys in Musanze.
combo	What a great experience we have had !
combo	The guide was helpful!
combo	the organizer was very concerned about our safety and well being.
combo	we went through two small and easy rapids but overall it was a very easy ride!
combo	The locals were greeting us along the river and we could observe a lot of different kind of birds.
combo	I will definitely do this again and will bring binoculars!
combo	All families with teen-age children would love to do that.
combo	It may be a little too long a ride (about 3 hours) for younger children ..The company has even helmets if people requires it for younger children but it is really safe!!"
combo	"Honesty first!
combo	I was petrified to get in a canoe anywhere.. Let alone in Africa being 10,000 miles from home!
combo	I don't know how to swim... (was almost drown when i was young) and therefore the thought of getting into a little skinny canoe with my plus-sized body.. well.. there are no words for my level of fear.
combo	But everyone else was going and i didn't want to miss going with them.
combo	Steve and Becky and Sandrine were so reassuring.. Steve asking me just to not panic IF something did happen.. What a guy!!
combo	He did calm my nerves.
combo	Well...
combo	I did make it in and out a couple of times.
combo	The first time was the hardest.. and then later down river we had to lift the canoes over a footbridge.
combo	Steve helped me in and out then, too!!
combo	The first time was most difficult.. but THEN we were on the river.
combo	What a fantastic time we had... Four boats staying together as we paddled, floated, laughed and simply took in the beauty of sitting on the water inbetween the reeds along the way..
combo	SO many different speciies of birds... and the kids that chased us along the banks were just delightful...
combo	It was a beautiful day in so many ways.. All the colors of green on the hillsides.. the sweet potato, corn and bean fields we floated past, all so incredibly restful.
combo	The stillness was serene!
combo	I think we traveled about 10 miles!
combo	or was it 10K?
combo	If you are thinking of going but a little nervous.. take it from me.. YOU WILL LOVE IT AND WANT TO TURN AROUND AND DO IT AGAIN.
combo	Thanks, Kingfisher for a fantastic Rwandan memory floating down the river near Musanze !!
combo	oh..and I'm 63)"
combo	"We were collected from our hotel in Musanze by our friendly driver and Sandrine our guide and driven to a quiet spot on the river bank to launch the canoes.
combo	The equipment was modern and they had all the required safety gear and equipment.
combo	Sandrine was friendly, helpful, and gave clear instructions.
combo	We drifted/paddled down a quiet river.
combo	It would be good to have map) The birds were everywhere and locals called greetings from their farm work.
combo	The river passed through scenery you only get from a canoe with the volcanoes as a backdrop.
combo	We had a good experience and would recommend this for something slightly different and a great way to absorb the local wildlife."
combo	"This is a great way to see the big beautiful Lake Kivu.
combo	There are many offerings of different trips.
combo	Long, short, overnight, sunset paddles.
combo	I would love to do them all.
combo	Steve and his staff are great and make sure you are safe."
combo	"We had a great time canoeing - our guide Sandrine was fantastic and so patient when showing us how to paddle and steer the canoe.
combo	The scenery was stunning and gave us a completely different perspective than what we're normally used to in this area.
combo	I live in Rwanda, and would definitely do this with friends as a fun day trip because it's different to all the other tourist attractions and is relaxing but also at times a bit challenging!
combo	Musanze is only a 2 hour drive from Kigali so it's a great opportunity to escape the city if you only have a day to get away."
combo	"This is a Totally fun and different activity compared to other recreational options in Rwanda we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!
combo	Ours was a half day tour and our guide Gratien was incredibly accommodating - seeing as it was on Christmas day!
combo	For somebody that can't swim, I felt completely safe - though I would recommend setting off early morning when the water is a lot calmer."
combo	Had a great time with our person and very profisonal guide.
combo	Relax paddeling with soms adventure and stunning scenery!
combo	"This was amazing!
combo	The tour guide was friendly and competent, and great at communicating.
combo	We live in Rwanda, and we enjoyed ii, but it would definitely be great for tourists as well.
combo	There were a lot of beautiful birds (which the tour guide knew the names of).
combo	It's very calm and beautiful, with one small set of rapids which we found fun, but could be skipped if you were nervous.
combo	It's a great way to see the Rwandan countryside.
combo	Our whole family went (seven of us) and it took about three hours with stopping so some could do the rapids again."
combo	"We stayed in by Lake Kiva for a few days, it's a beautiful area.
combo	Our kayak trip with Kingfisher Journeys was the best way to be out on the water, we followed the shore and stopped to see things.
combo	The modern sea kayaks are easy and efficient to use, you can cover a good distance comfortably without too much effort.
combo	Francis, our guide, knew the area very well and tailored the trip to suit us."
combo	We had a great time rowing on the river.
combo	There was lots of bird and fish life.
combo	The only thing missing was a snack would have been nice on the canoe.
combo	The scenery is great and you have a lot of freedom.
combo	"It was a scenic and serene experience spending the morning on lake kivu in a kayak.
combo	Francis was an awesome guide.
combo	His candid conversation about the area, fishing, agriculture and general developments made me feel the energy of rwanda throughout the tour.
combo	💫 It's a beautiful way to start a day.
combo	On a more personal note, at some point I was fighting the wind trying to go one way and it pushing me another.
combo	I'm initial response was to pedal faster and harder.
combo	And then I remembered the the zen saying that u shouldn't try to steer a river.
combo	So I took a break , absorbed the scene and let the wind pass & carried on after that having greater sense of peace and humility after that 😊"
combo	I went out with Francis earlier this week for a morning kayak trip.
combo	The scenery was truly gorgeous and Francis was a great guide!
combo	Definitely a great way to experience Lake Kivu!
combo	"A wonderful day spent kayaking on Lake Kivu.
combo	We started our day at Gisenyi, with a useful refresher from our guide Francis on how to kayak.
combo	We then went into the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu and did a fantastic slow and steady kayak for a few hours, stopping by local hot springs and for lunch on our own island!
combo	Francis was brilliant throughout, answering all my questions on the local culture, way of life and about neighbouring DRC (which we weren't visiting).
combo	Everything was in our own time but really well guided and looked after throughout.
combo	Thanks!"
combo	"It was very easy to organise (Steve replied straight away to our questions on WhatsApp) and very convenient.
combo	Sandrine picked us up at our hotel in Musanze & looked after us all day.
combo	We saw many kingfishers, enjoyed the peace of the landscape and laughed at the children who came to spy on us.
combo	We had a wonderful trip.
combo	Thank you!"
combo	"Three of us stayed at the Paradise Malahide hotel which was great with excellent food then met Steve and Graciane there for the tour.
combo	The kayaks were great and we had expert encouragement.
combo	It was quite energetic- about 15km each day.
combo	Very nice stops on the coffee islands with good packed lunch.
combo	The lake is so beautiful and we swam in the cool clear water safely.
combo	We stayed overnight in a very simple tranquil coffee plantation, then learnt from a v good tour of the plantation culminating in watching our own coffee being ground and roast traditionally - really delicious!
combo	All in all it was a beautiful peaceful retreat - with a brief stop in at hot springs on the way back....."
combo	"Myself and a friend went on a beautiful 3 hour canoe trip down a small Musanze river.
combo	It was beautiful!
combo	Our guide, Sandrine, was knowledgeable, skilled, and professional.
combo	We greeted children cutting cow grass, we watched weaver birds build nests on the side of tall reeds on the river bank, we bought sugar cane growing beside the river, peeled it, and ate it as we watched three different volcanoes move in and out of the clouds.
combo	It was lovely!
combo	The day started with a drizzle, and stopped as we got in the water.
combo	As the morning wore on, the sun came out and I was thankful I'd applied sunscreen!"
combo	"What a fantastic experience canoeing on the river mukungwa.
combo	I really loved it, i was abit anxious about it but Sandrine our guide showed us all the techniques and always waited for us when we struggled which happened a few times.
combo	Going through the rapids was so much fun too.
combo	I really would recommend it as an afternoon activity right after the gorillas."
combo	"Well organised, fun, great way to see the countryside - definitely recommend for both tourists or locals!"
combo	"We had a great day on the river with our guide Sandrine.
combo	She knew what she was doing, I felt safe all the time, and she was very friendly and interesting to talk with.
combo	I really enjoyed watching the scenery, the birds and the locals.
combo	The river was gentle and calm except for one rapid, but it was not very difficult.
combo	We even got helmets for that rapid, which shows how serious this company is.
combo	Good quality canoes imported from England made the paddling easy.
combo	The manager kept us informed and it was easy to book on the website.
combo	We got picked up and dropped off at our hotel, the driver spoke english and was very friendly and interesting to talk with.
combo	I am so glad I did this trip, will definitively recommend it to everyone going to Rwanda."
combo	Excellent trips.
combo	Super friends and experienced staff.
combo	Definitely recommend it and especially adding on the fishing boats in the evening.
combo	Lovely memories.
combo	"Wow what a fabulous day with Kingfisher journeys.
combo	Very informative and attentive guides, stunning scenery and a wonderful way of appreciating and experiencing the lake.
combo	Would highly recommend it.
combo	A brilliant start to my holiday in Rwanda."
combo	"Nice guide and good kayaks, you get a nice view of the Lake and the hills!
combo	Was a very fun trip for one afternoon"
combo	"Organized by people who know what they're doing, this canoe trip takes you through the regional countryside.
combo	Great way to spend a morning or afternoon!
combo	Sandrine is kind an knowledgeable.
combo	On the one small rapid, we did somehow manage to flip our boat and get wet!
combo	Only added to the fun though."
combo	"We did the full day (8 a.m. - after sunset) kayaking tour launching very conveniently from the beach of our beautiful accommodation Paradis Malahide.
combo	Francis, our guide, stopped by the night before to confirm details for the next day.
combo	He then waited for us at 8 a.m. with all equipment and gave us a professional kayaking and safety briefing.
combo	We can only echoe all the compliments from the other reviews.
combo	Above all, we highly appreciated Francis being super attentive throughout the day.
combo	He is a proud ambassador of his country, readily sharing his wealth of knowledge.
combo	We have learned so much from him ... even how to get back into the kayak after a refreshing jump into the water 😊.
combo	What an amazing day!!!
combo	We came to Rwanda to see the gorillas but there is so much more to this beautiful country."
combo	"I went on a kayaking trip near Musanze in July 2016.
combo	Really such a great experience, a great way to see the country side of Rwanda, interact with locals as you paddle through beautiful landscapes.
combo	If you are a bird person, most definitely a great way to see lots of different types of birds.
combo	Something a little different you can do in the afternoon after your gorilla trek.
combo	Above all, amazing staff!!
combo	:) Recommend embarking on this journey to anyone!!"
combo	"The experience is really great.
combo	The service, both before the actual activity (kayaking on beautiful Lake Kivu) and during it, is really perfect.
combo	I was assisted not only concerning the booking of the kayaking itself, but Kingfisher (it's founder and administrator) also helps you if you need to find an accommodation to be able to start the activity at best early in the morning.
combo	He really did not mind interacting with me and answering my multiple questions!
combo	There are a few trained kayaking guides.
combo	The one in charge of my kayaking has been not only fully professionally trained, but also friendly and has provided a real quality experience and time.
combo	I have to say that I enjoyed his company as an integral part of my experience.
combo	I would really suggest this activity to anybody that wants some relax while enjoying a beautiful landscape.
combo	With the discounts for volunteers and students, it becomes a real must go."
combo	We booked a half day kayaking tour on kivu lake in Ruanda we spent a great afternoon on the lake seeing a beautiful landscape fisher boots hot springs and a romantic sunset!
combo	Every time again
combo	"Two days of kayaking on Lake Kivu with local guide, Francis, and company owner, Steve.
combo	Equipment was in very good condition, scenery was stunning, and Francis was an excellent guide.
combo	Water got quite choppy (as all expanses of open water will), which was a fun challenge for an intermediate paddler.
combo	I never felt unsafe though as Francis and Steve were constantly monitoring the conditions and had plans ready had the water become too rough.
combo	The size of the lake is pretty immense and we paddled past numerous islands and villages before eventually reaching our stop for the night: an uninhabited island!
combo	If one is looking for a complete change of scenery from European town living, nothing feels quite as good as setting up a tent by a lake in the middle of nowhere.
combo	We had a fantastic afternoon exploring the small island, before heading back out on the water at sunset to follow a local fishing party.
combo	On clear, perfectly flat water, with the sun dropping in the sky, paddling out with the fishermen was undoubtedly one of the best experiences of my life.
combo	Slept well in the tent (all camping gear provided), before breaking camp and starting the trip back.
combo	Hadn't quite appreciated how hard I'd worked on Day 1 and so the shoulders were somewhat tired for the trip back.
combo	Made it back to Bethany for lunch and a well-earned local beer on the terrace by the lake.
combo	I would thoroughly recommend this trip for anyone who is a hardy, outdoor type who is looking for much more than just the standard hotel holiday experience.
combo	Would still recommend for any traveller although a day trip would be more appropriate for the less experienced paddler."
combo	The trip was awesome!
combo	Steve met us at the hotel and helped us get all the equipment together.
combo	We set off round the shores of lake kivu at a steady pace.
combo	The views were stunning and the birds flying right by the boats was really great.
combo	Steve had a great knowledge and answered all questions and pointed out interesting things along the way.
combo	The high light for me was the evening ride when the sun was setting and all the boats were going out to fish!
combo	It really was great.
combo	Steve was also great with Nici who got a bit panicked when the waves got a bit more choppy.
combo	He was very calm and handled the situation very well.
combo	Thanks Steve and Kingfisher Kayaks- great trip!
combo	I had lots of fun kayaking around the bays and islands on Lake Kivu with Kingfisher Journeys.
combo	Francis was a great instructor and guide.
combo	Good value for money.
combo	I'd highly recommend this company to anyone.
combo	"We spent a perfect day on the water with Kingfisher journeys.
combo	The whole trip was very well organized.
combo	Steve, the English owner of the company, sent us all necessary information by email, recommended as a nice hotel near the lake (Paradise Malahide) and called us one day before the trip.
combo	We met our Rwandan guides in the morning at the Paradise Malahide.
combo	They gave us a superb instruction how to kajak (one of us was a beginner).
combo	Both guides knew English and French very well.
combo	We had interessting talks and good fun on the water.
combo	We stoped at a hot spring (we got a agreeable foot massage from locals for a small tipp), at a fishfarm, at a bird's tree and at a fisherboat's place.
combo	The lunch, that organized Kingfisher journeys, was delicious.
combo	The highlight of the day was the sunset tour in the evening.
combo	We paddeled side by side with the local fishermen who sang great songs to motivate themselves for their night on the water.
combo	We enjoyed the day very much.
combo	The tour was very well adjusted to our level of Kayaking and the guides were great!"
combo	"My friend and I were looking for something to do in Gisenyi besides lay by the water for the weekend.
combo	We were fortunate enough to get the last 2 spots on the 2-day kayaking trip from Gisenyi to Cymbili and then back the next day.
combo	Everything was absolutely incredible, even though it was rainy/cloudy our first day on the water.
combo	Francis was so helpful and so funny.
combo	He kept his own with 4 girls in their 20s haha..it was great.
combo	The first day we took a pretty slow pace just talking with each other, while Francis pointed out a few places he wanted us to see.
combo	We arrived in Cymbili around 2:30 (we left at 9:30 and stopped for lunch for about an hour).
combo	We relaxed, had a wonderful dinner, and were in bed early ready to start back in the morning.
combo	Francis let us decide when to go back, and we picked earlier, as we all had buses to catch, but we definitely could've taken our time in the morning and on the water if we had wanted to.
combo	We left at 8:30 and arrived back in Gisenyi around 12.
combo	Would recommend the trip to anyone and everyone!
combo	That being said, we were all young and in good shape, so the 10k each way was totally fine) Wish I was in Rwanda long enough to go on another Kingfisher trip!!!"
combo	"We had just finished an exhausting couple of weeks and needed a way to relax.
combo	Kingfisher Journeys, and our guide Francis gave us just that.
combo	Rather than embark on a full on excursion he was happy to take us out at a slow pace.
combo	We spent the morning exploring all the bays and islands near our hotel, watched kingfishers (obviously) fishing, and because it was a Sunday, eavesdropped on some church services/lovely singing coming from the churches along the shore.
combo	In the evening we went out again to watch a magical sunset, which capped off a fantastic day.
combo	There is really no better way of seeing this part of Rwanda, than being out on the water.
combo	What was really amazing was that there was no-one else out there with us!
combo	This little company is doing an excellent, pioneering job."
combo	"We had a great couple of days on Lake Kivu with Steve and Francis.
combo	They were great fun and we all felt very secure under their guidance and leadership.
combo	We set off from Bethany in Kibuye on calm water.
combo	We were given a full briefing and throughout the trip, they informed us and updated us with their plans, which had to be fluid due to the threat of storms.
combo	It really was stunning to see the country from the lake level and it was lovely to 'pop in' on the lakeside fishing villages.
combo	A storm threatened as we approached the island but fortunately we made it and set up camp without the skies pouring.
combo	Steve and Francis are 'environmentally aware' and conscious of the impact on the island, which was reassuring and gives me hope that they will be visiting for many years to come.
combo	Before helping to cook over the campfire, we headed out into the sunset to watch the local fishermen at work.
combo	Without a doubt, a memory to last a lifetime, along with my trip out in a local, hollowed out tree trunk with the night guard.... much to the amusement of the rest of the group.
combo	After a good night's sleep under canvas, we enjoyed our porridge and then set off back to Kibuye.
combo	Despite a downpour, it didn't dampen our spirits and we managed to make it back to Bethany in record time and enjoyed a late lunch with spectacular views from the shoreside.
combo	A highly recommended trip for the adventurous, with rewarding views and memories to dine out on for years to come."
combo	"You must try the kayaking with Kingfisher journeys, it was fun, exciting and really really cool.
combo	The guides were professional, engaging, patient and reassuring.
combo	I would recommend them to any one at any time!
combo	It was my first experience and simply loved it!!!"
combo	"Great time, great guide.
combo	It is actually quite tiring so make sure you bring water and lots of sunblock.
combo	Very peaceful on the water."
combo	"Kingfisher tours is perfect is you are looking for a way to get out of town and onto the water.
combo	You are provided with all the equipment you would need and before you start the guide, Francis, will go over the basics with you if you like.
combo	Then, you spend the next 5-6 hours kayaking to various points of interest on the lake (gas extraction rigs, hot springs, fish farms, and a private island for lunch).
combo	You are also able to set your own pace."
combo	"Despite not knowing swimming, the guide Francis assured me that I need no training or experience for kayaking.
combo	The lake was a bit wavy on the day and maintaining balance was difficult.
combo	But with all the help from Francis, I was able to kayak.
combo	And it felt great, all by yourself in this Great Lake that can be compared to a sea.
combo	Great experience.... One of the few things to do in Gisenyi..."
combo	"Kayaking on the shores of Lake Kivu is a unique way to experience the beautiful landscapes and see the hills and fishermen's villages from another perspective.
combo	Kingfisher Journey's were extremely flexible with our dates and times of the tour, and the tour guides were very friendly and technically skilled to teach us how to kayak and enjoy hours under the sun on the water.
combo	Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see more of the area, if you want to try something new or if you would a nice workout!"
combo	"I went for a kayak tour with Kingfisher on Lake Kivu and it was so beautiful.
combo	Francis the guide was so helpful and made the experience really pleasant.
combo	The views were utterly stunning, and just sitting on the water being rocked back and forth in the boat while looking out over all the activities on the lakeside was so relaxing.
combo	This is a must do!"
combo	"I had the pleasure of meeting Steven during my stay in Gisenyi.
combo	He asked if I would be interested in going out on the water for the day with him and his guides and assist him while he evaluated their ability to problem solve and deal with the unexpected.
combo	Being a kayaking enthusiast at home, I was immediately interested.
combo	I had my friend with me, who can't swim and who had never been kayaking so I was interested in how they would incorporate him into the day.
combo	They did the on land orientation and taught him how to hold the paddle and how to paddle properly.
combo	Once on the water, we went through a number of emergency scenarios: heart attack, injuries, panicking individuals, stranded against windy rocky shores, broken paddles, etc.
combo	It's not every day you get to fake a heart attack and flip your kayak on purpose, it was a fun way to experience the beauty of the lake while doing something productive.
combo	Steven observed how his guides reacted and response to each scenario and then talked through the scenario with them, what they could have done better, what they did well, what they were thinking and what made them decide to do one thing versus another.
combo	After all of our practice time was up we were caught by the rain, Steven used this real life (and very frequent situation) example as another training forum for his staff.
combo	He took control of the situation but continued to talk them through what was happening and why he was making the decisions he was making.
combo	When the storm got to the point where Steven felt it was unsafe for us to continue our journey home, we took shelter at a local home along the shore.
combo	Much to our delight there were several guava trees in the yard and we ate our fill of the delicious, fresh fruit while we waited for the weather to allow us to continue the journey.
combo	On the way back we stopped at the hot springs, not much to look at but still a part of the Rwandan experience, as the waters are treasured by the locals.
combo	The views on the lake are breathtaking, gives you a new perspective of the villages and surrounding hillside.
combo	The water is clean and crisp if you decide to take a dip.
combo	My friend also enjoyed himself immensely.
combo	At first he was a little apprehensive of the whole idea, since he doesn't swim and the lake is very deep, but once he got comfortable with paddling his face lit up.
combo	Steven and the guides were so helpful to him and did a great job giving him a wonderful first kayaking experience.
combo	He felt so comfortable on and in the water with them that he even got out of his kayak, in a place he couldn't stand, to take part in one of the scenarios!
combo	We both had an amazing time out on the water and I don't think either of us will ever forget our time out on the lake with the Kingfisher Journeys staff!
combo	Thank you Steven!
combo	I hope to return one day and take a few days on the water, with less emergencies ;) ."
combo	"I did a hike along the Congo Nile Trail that was guided by Fred and organised by Francis.
combo	And if was just a great experience!
combo	Both of them came to meet me at the hotel I stayed in Rubona and we discussed the detail beforehand.
combo	The hike was just beautiful, though at times a bit strenous and sweaty.
combo	Lot's of kids and other people to greet, the rolling landscape with is coffee and cassava plantations and veggie gardens is lovely, good for birding also, if you are interested.
combo	Fred is a perfect guide, knowledgeable and always encouraging to go further despite being exhausted at some point.
combo	Francis, too, did all he could to make this an unforgettable experience, especially as tourists are a rare sight in Rwanda these days and lockdown measures require a fair amount of logistics.
combo	Well done!"
combo	"I did the 2 day Congo-Nile-Trail from Gisenyi to Kibuye with a guide.
combo	I organised everything with Francis only a few days ahead via Mail/WhatsApp.
combo	Organisation was perfect (delivered the bike the evening before the start to the guesthouse) and my guide (Cesar) was really friendly and helpful during the whole trip.
combo	The bike was better than expected (Scott-Fully with Fox suspension) and Kinunu Lodge (overnight stay) was also great.
combo	Concerning the payment options mentioned in other reviews: Yes, of course it would be great to pay with a credit card, but I think the problem lies also with the Rwandan banks.
combo	I'm not sure if banknotes more than 5.000 RWF don't exist but the ATMs only give you 5.000 RWF bills.
combo	This is EXTREMLY inconvenient if you have to withdraw larger amounts (like 170 € or 200 USD) because the bills don't even fit in your wallet anymore.
combo	The mentioned restrictions for withdrawals/amount per day are also a joke.
combo	But that is not the fault of the company."
combo	"Very good communication, very kind and helpful.
combo	The chain of one of the bikes broke, we called Francis and they brought another bike by motorcycle, thanks again Francis!
combo	Kind regards from Belgium"
combo	"Hiking the Congo Nile Trail from Gisenyi to Kibuye was definetly my highlight of Rwanda and one of the most amazing things I experienced so far.
combo	The landscape and nature at Lake Kivu is simply beautiful and Fred taught me a lot about culture, agriculture and politics in his country.
combo	We had really nice conversations during these four days and hiked paths off the main trails.
combo	I totally recommend doing the Congo Nile Trail with a local as it is a different and more valuable experience than going by yourselves.
combo	Fred and Francis are very nice people, always trying to help, and I'll definitely come back to see them again.
combo	All the best to you guys!"
combo	"We did a one day biking trip on the Congo-Nile trail, and really enjoyed it.
combo	We booked it very last-minute, but everything was arranged perfectly.
combo	Francis and two of his friends picked us up from the hotel in Rubuna, we cycled for about 4 hours to Nkora where we were picked up by a boat that brought us back.
combo	We were in doubt if we wanted a guide, but very happy we chose this option.
combo	Thanks!"
combo	"To go on the Congo Nile Trail from Gisenyi to Kibuye by bike we rented the mountain bikes for the two day trip from Go Gisenyi Tours.
combo	The communication beforehand was very convenient, all our questions were answered and he gave us a reasonable price for the bikes and the transport from Kibuye to Gisenyi.
combo	The conditions of the bikes were ok (but soon at least the brakes and the tires should be replaced I suggest) and a spare tube, repair tools and the map of the Congo Nile trail was provided.
combo	We had an awesome trip along lake Kivu and would choose Go Gisenyi Tour for our next trip as well."
combo	"My husband and I have just finished the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	We were very happy with Francis with sending emails back and forwards quickly.
combo	The guide we had was Fred and he was great ,always full of information and we could have a good laugh with him.
combo	The views are amazing.
combo	You probably need to have a bit of fitness as it can get tough going up and down hills.
combo	Go Gisenyi was a good price.
combo	Thanks again Francis and Fred"
combo	"Francis and Fred were awesome to deal with!
combo	I booked pretty last minute but they were super flexible with me.
combo	They picked me up from the hotel and then Fred took me off on the hike for the next few days.
combo	He was brilliant.
combo	I was going to do it alone and I'm so glad I didn't.
combo	Instead of sticking to the road we took lots of ""shortcuts"" through plantations and villages that I imagine I wouldn't have experienced without him.
combo	I'm so grateful for him helping me in some of the more difficult areas too - he was great.
combo	I would recommend taking healthy snacks with you as there is nothing along the way.
combo	Also someone suggested buying a bottle of blow bubbles with you as a fun way to interact with the kids.
combo	This was the best thing I did.
combo	It can be quite confronting having them constantly running up and asking for money, but playing with them and letting them blow bubbles was really fun.
combo	Note: some of them had never seen that before so they were nervous at first but then they got into it.
combo	Overall - a brilliant hike and great experience from GoGisenyi - so thankyou!"
combo	"We did the half day coffee tour with Fred.
combo	Such a pleasant way to spend the morning - a relaxed boat ride on the lake to the coffee plantation, followed by a very comprehensive tour on the entire coffee making process.
combo	You get to pound and roast some beans and then enjoy a cup of what you’ve made.
combo	We loved chatting with Fred about Rwanda.
combo	Definitely worth doing!"
combo	"Joined a tour group from Dubai for 2 days of the Congo Nile Trek and evening boat trip in Gisenyi and a final day tour of Kigali.
combo	The trek was fairly easy, on dirt roads winding through villages and farms with beautiful views of the lake, with a final boat trip to take us to our hotel stop for the night.
combo	Our guide explained village and farm life, and knew some welcome short cuts towards the end of the day.
combo	Francis (and Freddy on the hike) were really helpful and friendly, had well organised everything and I'd recommend them (and Gsenyi) to friends and family."
combo	Francis is incredible!
combo	We had two days at Lake Kivu and he suggested tours that were right up our alley.
combo	We did a coffee plantation tour and a one day hike along the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	Francis is an incredibly reliable and informative guide and was super personable.
combo	We were so lucky to have stumbled upon Go Gisenyi Tours and would highly recommend them anytime you are in the area!
combo	Thank you Francis!
combo	!
combo	"My husband and I did a 2 day hike on the Congo Nile Trail, starting in Gisenyi with an overnight at the very basic Cyimbiri guesthouse, right on Lake Kivu.
combo	The hiking was fairly rigorous but fun.
combo	There were beautiful views of hills and farms along the way, and we got a good glimpse of village life.
combo	Children enjoyed calling to us and following us while we walked.
combo	Our guide, Freddy, shared lots of interesting information about Rwandan life, and led us on several shortcuts through the farms.
combo	Francis organized things well.
combo	After our second day, 3-hour walk, we stopped for lunch at another guesthouse, then took a boat back across the lake to Gisenyi.
combo	I would recommend Go Gisenyi Tours for an active adventure and view of village life in the Lake Kivu region."
combo	"Francis was very kind and reachable.
combo	He rented us 2 bikes in good state, and was okay that we do our 2 days excursion without a guide -which he can provide if you prefer- He was also flexible about the return of the bikes.
combo	Moreover it was a pretty cheap alternative compared to the other bigger companies on this small market."
combo	"Organization of the whole trip was very smooth and easy.
combo	Francis provided all necessary informations, answered all open questions very quickly and arranged our extra wishes (waking pole, transport, adjustments to the hike).
combo	Fred was an excellent guide with detailed knowledge about the area and the local life.
combo	We had an amazing time (and also luck with the weather) tracking through beautiful sceneries and villages.
combo	Anyone visiting the lake kivu region should not miss at least a part of the Congo Nile Track.
combo	And for us GoGisenyi was the perfect company to explore this little paradise"
combo	"We wanted to make a three days hike on the Congo Nile Trail and we contacted several tour operators.
combo	Francis was very responsive and offered a three days tour which means that we needed a transport from some point of the trail to Kibuye (normally it is four days).
combo	Furthermore, I wanted my big backpack to be transported from Gisenyi to Kibuye.
combo	Since Francis was more flexible with the three days than other operators I decided to do it with Go Gisenyi.
combo	Francis offered (as all tour operators) a reduction for my son who is a foreign resident in Rwanda.
combo	Overall it was a good decision to do the hike with Go Gisenyi, because it was easy to organize with them and we had a good time with Fred who was our guide on the tour.
combo	Fred speaks quite good English (which is not common in Rwanda), knows a lot about his and the neighbour countries, tells you many things about life in Rwanda etc.
combo	Really recommendable!!
combo	But, nevertheless, there are some areas of improvement: 1) You have to pay cash or via a Rwanda bank account.
combo	Since the tours are quite expensive, you need lot of cash which has to be ""organized"" (ATM cash withdrawal is often limited to the equivalent of 100 US $).
combo	Credit card payment would be helpful.
combo	2) Communication about food during the hike is unclear.
combo	Since all other operators offer lunch, we assumed that we get lunch during the day.
combo	But we learnt that it is not included, i.e.
combo	we had to buy something on the way (which means amadasi in a kind of bakery; nothing else is available).
combo	This should be clearly communicated, so you can take a lunchbox with you.
combo	3) One day before our tour my son asked Francis whether they can also transport his backpack with the car which should us meet at some point on day 3.
combo	The answer was ""yes"", but the next day, just when we started, Francis informed me that the transport of the second backpack is 60 US$ (which corresponds exactly to the reduction he provided to my son being a foreign resident).
combo	I really was not happy, but what should I do just before the hike starting....."
combo	"Francis is great!
combo	He took the time to listen what type of experience we wanted and recommended us a very nice trail from Gisenyi to Musasa, and the go up to Knomero and go back to Gisenyi by the main road crossing Gishwati Forest and very beautiful tea plantations.
combo	He contacted all the guest houses and provided us the necessary tools to have a safetly trail.
combo	The bikes are very good quality.
combo	Ve were very lucky to find him.
combo	Florencia and Noelle from Chile."
combo	"We booked a 4-day hiking on the Congo Nile trail only a day before start.
combo	Francis and Fred were very kind and provided all essential informations before the start of our trek.
combo	Hiking itself was a bit tiring (because of the sun), otherwise it was a great experience after all.
combo	Fred told us all the neccesary (and un-neccesary 😉) informations about the local life, answered all our questions, etc.
combo	Eventhough it was a bit tiring trek, at the end we were all happy to reach the Karongi.
combo	The whole trek is not cheap, but experience is what it counts at the end and it is definitely worth it.
combo	About Fred...he is a cool guy over there.
combo	Curious about our country as we were about his.
combo	Explained and organised everything (buying food and drink during the day where possible).
combo	And yes, we thought it was a joke when he said we have to cross the river-but not over the bridge."
combo	"Incredible experience with GoGisenyi.
combo	Francis was very communicative and responded very quickly to my questions before the ride.
combo	Cesar my guide was amazing.
combo	Very helpful, knowledgeable of the area, conversational, and genuinely cares about his work and making sure his clients have the best possible experience.
combo	The Congo Nile trail is beautiful and just the right amount of challenging to make it rewarding.
combo	October was a beautiful month there although I hear t can rain a lot during that time."
combo	"Rafiki came highly recommended to me by a friend who has traveled with Rafiki along the Congo Trail twice and Rafiki did not disappoint.
combo	First, I was arriving at midnight in Kigali and Rafiki was able to provide transportation for me to get from Kigali to Gisenyi that night which was hugely accommodating.
combo	Rafiki set up my accommodations at Discover Rwanda Beach hotel which was right on the lake and a perfect place to come back to each night.
combo	Rafiki set up 2 days of activities - we biked the Congo Nile Trail on the first day and hiked through mountains, banana plantations and local villages the second day.
combo	He was friendly and knowledgeable and I very much enjoyed spending time with him as I was solo traveling.
combo	He's also a fairly good photographer!
combo	And, he has a beautiful restaurant on the lake with delicious food and ambiance where we enjoyed dinner on our last evening.
combo	I highly recommend booking a tour with Rafiki as he understands what travelers are looking for and is extremely accommodating and responsive as I was planning my visit from abroad.
combo	If I ever return to Rwanda, I'll be sure to contact Rafiki again!"
combo	"It was an amazing experience with my super guide Fred, 3 days from Kibuye to Gisenyi.
combo	The views are just breathtaking, on the way many beautiful local villages and nice people !
combo	The 2 nights were really nice with very good local food !
combo	I highly recommend !"
combo	"I booked a 3 day tour with Francis, and overall had a good experience.
combo	Here my overall experience...
combo	I was booking these activities last minute while in Rwanda, so I reached out and Francis and staff were very responsive, replying to my emails within a very short time.
combo	And, along the route he was flexible when I wanted to change plans slightly due to weather and remaining daylight.
combo	Francis is pretty new at tours overall, so he is learning what different tourists expect, so I think his services will improve with more experience.
combo	In 3 days I was able to do a lot of things, but I think I should have taken more time to really make sure the details of what was planned were what I wanted, not what was assumed I wanted.
combo	Overall the price was reasonable for all the activities in those 3 days.
combo	Tea Factory Tour - Very informative and interesting to see how the tea comes in leaf form and finishes as bagged product.
combo	Plus the factory smelled awesome.
combo	Nyungwe Canopy Tour & Hike - The canopy tour was great, and we added on hiking on another trail to the end of the canopy hike for a total of about 3 hours of hiking.
combo	Fortunately I got to see 3 types of monkeys on the hike even!
combo	Lake Kivu Boat Ride - The original boat ride that was scheduled was a little short, but he was flexible when I asked to make it a little longer to see more of the lake and houses along it.
combo	Inzu Lodge (Gisenyi) - This overnight stay was great.
combo	Highly recommended.
combo	I also requested a stop at the King Palace Museum, but was instead taken to the national heritage museum.
combo	When I asked if we could go to the Kings Palace, he obliged and we went there just before closing time and got a last minute tour.
combo	The negatives: Bike Tour of Gisenyi - This overall was very disappointing.
combo	You are taken to the genocide memorial, a special needs school, and to the town beach.
combo	Not recommended.
combo	The most interesting part was visiting the busy Congo border (although I wish that the guards would have allowed pictures) and the only thing worth seeing separately in Gisenyi.
combo	The second border crossing (less busy) wasn't very interesting either.
combo	Habimana Gervais Gisakura Guest House (near Nyungwe) - Don't stay here.
combo	See my review of this for details.
combo	Driving - We got to and from Kigali in record time, but the driving at times was like being in a formula 1 race in the mountains.
combo	Bring your motion sickness pills if needed.
combo	Other Thoughts: Payment - Being outside the USA, I wasn't able to authorize a bank transfer for payment, so instead I had to withdraw enough cash out of ATMs over the course of a few days (due to per-day limits at each ATM).
combo	I recommended he find a way to take paypal payments or other options in the future.
combo	Meals - It wasn't clearly defined which meals were included or not included along the way.
combo	I think breakfast was included, and I got a sandwich one day too.
combo	Other than that I paid for meals separately.
combo	At times I did sense some hesitation when the planned activities weren't aligned with my original request.
combo	But, in the end I did end up going where I wanted so overall it was a successful journey to the South of Rwanda."
combo	"I had read lots of reviews about the Congo nile trail so i thought i would have a go at walking some of it in the limited time i had available.
combo	My hostel phoned Go Gisenyi and 5 minutes later Gretian appeared at my hostel to talk through various options!
combo	I chose to walk for 2 days, getting a boat back from Kinunu on the second day (but the plan was flexible if i wanted to stay there overnight).
combo	The next day i met my brilliant guide Evariste.
combo	He never rushed me, pointed out lots of interesting things, be it birds and plants, to community projects, and gave me a deeper insight into rwandan life.
combo	He also carried my lunch, which was very tasty.
combo	One of the highlights was meeting his family in one of the local villages.
combo	I could not have asked for a better guide.
combo	very friendly and easy to get on with.
combo	Even with ATMs not working and a boat engine issue Go Gisenyi made sure my trip went smoothly.
combo	I would whole heartedly recommend then."
combo	We rented two bicycles from GoGisenyi Tours to go from Gisenyi to Kibuye in 3 days.
combo	The daily rate for the bikes and the price for picking them up at Kibuye were a lot cheaper than the ones other companies had offered us.
combo	The organizer Francis brought us the bikes (and included helmets) directly to our hotel in Gisenyi.
combo	His English is excellent.
combo	"We took the 2 day MTB tour from Gisenyi to Kabuye along the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	The trip was excellent.
combo	Francis the owner of Go Gisenyi was superb and very attentive to our needs before during and after the trip.
combo	The route was challenging even for experienced MTB riders with very little flat and very varied route surface which included grass, path and steep rocky terrain.
combo	It is said that Rwanda is a country of 1000 hills - I felt I climbed at least half of them!
combo	When booking Francis answered emails very quickly and was very flexible offering us the option of riding the 100K in 2 or 3 days as we wished.
combo	The bikes were excellent quality, he allowed us to modify them (using our own pedals) and he was very punctual and was charming.
combo	We needed to carry our own gear as the guides took food and water.
combo	We set off with a guide called Fred who couldn’t have been more helpful and a mechanic who was also happy to push up hills when needed.
combo	On the second morning when we had breakfast he serviced and cleaned each bike to ensure they were in perfect order after a punishing day on the trail.
combo	The lodge we stayed in was much better than we expected and the food excellent.
combo	They even washed my cycling shorts overnight.
combo	The terrain on Day 2 was different to day one (more rolling than steep).
combo	At the end of day 2 a private boat was waiting for us and took us back to Gisenyi.
combo	On our return Francis was there to meet us, dealt with all the bikes and drove us back to our hotel.
combo	This was a superb trip but the route was harder than expected and needed a reasonable amount of fitness and off road technique.
combo	My wife cycles regularly in the UK but not off road, she enjoyed the trip although found some parts very challenging.
combo	Go Gisenyi is a new company and Francis is very keen to ensure that his standards are very high.
combo	I would have no reservations in recommending this company to anyone."
combo	"I would recommend EVERYONE take a Go-Gisenyi tour.
combo	We chose Francis & his tours because he was offering tours that were very unique and different to the other tour companies.
combo	They are truly community based tours - Francis grew up in the area and runs his tours in a way that builds real relationships with the local people, where money spent goes directly back into the local economy, all the while connecting travelers with unique, real experiences.
combo	We did the Congo Nile 4 day hike & The fisherman experience - both were INCREDIBLE.
combo	Francis's brother, Freddy, was our guide for the Congo Nile and he was fantastic.
combo	He guided us through beautiful fishing villages, mountain communities and was alway so gracious, informative, and did everything with a wonderful sense of humour.
combo	We enjoyed every day with him.
combo	The fisherman experience was probably the highlight of our trip.
combo	The time we spent on the fishing boat was so much more than just a tour - we felt totally a part of the action, and it was one an absolutely incredible craft to witness up close.
combo	Gisenyi is a magic place - everyone should pass through during their time in Rwanda, and give Francis a call.
combo	I'm not ever a person who usually does tours - I usually prefer to travel solo and find my own way.
combo	But there are some beautiful places & people that Francis can connect you with, that you would not find on your own.
combo	He's a warm, wonderful person and we hope to be back in Gisenyi soon."
combo	"While most people who go to Rwanda confine their visit to Kigali and the gorillas in Volcanoes NP - there are other, additional places to explore and things to do.
combo	The Congo - Nile trail along the shore of beautiful Lake Kivu is one.
combo	If you are interested in hiking (or dirt biking) and rural African culture, there is no one better to go with than Go Gisenyi Tours.
combo	They are knowledgeable, friendly, flexible and fun.
combo	Bring you shoes, your toothbrush and maybe a bathing suit for a dip in Lake Kivu.
combo	It's a beautiful experience.
combo	Karibuni."
combo	"I couldn’t be happier about my trip with Go Gisenyi.
combo	I told Francis that I had only two days in Gisenyi and what kind of activities I would like to try.
combo	He tailored a half day hike along the Congo-Nile trail, stand-up paddle boarding, and city walking tour for me at a very affordable price.
combo	During these trips, my guide Fred told me many things about Rwanda and Gisenyi, what life is like, education, the president, local dishes, religion and more.
combo	I feel like I’ve had a crash course on Rwanda while enjoying the beautiful scenery and meeting the friendly locals.
combo	Thank you Go Gisenyi!
combo	See you next time!"
combo	"Fantastic two day cycle along the Congo Nile Trail with Francis.
combo	I had limited time in Rwanda and wanted to fit in a two day cycle.
combo	Francis was able to tailor the trip to my needs, including picking me up from Kigali very early in the morning.
combo	The cycle was definitely the highlight of my trip.
combo	Francis is highly trustworthy, professional and reliable.
combo	In addition he is a great person to cycle with and will give you true insight into Rwanda.
combo	I will be recommending Go Gisenyi Tours and Francis to anyone I know visiting Rwanda!!"
combo	Wonderful hiking days with very different welcoming guest houses.
combo	Fred from Go Gisenyi Tours was a great guide.
combo	What a beautiful experience.
combo	"We booked this trip last minute and contacted Francis, enthusiastic, young owner of 'Go Gisenyi Tours' only a couple of days prior to the start of our hike.
combo	Francis was recommended by fellow travelers and rightly so: super easy to communicate with, very dedicated and accomodating and within two days we were hitting the trail.
combo	We hiked from Gisenyi to Rubengera, a beautiful 4-day stretch of the CNT.
combo	Our excellent tour guide was Fred, Francis' brother and we had a great time with him.
combo	If you hike/bike the CNT yourself without a guide, you will mostly follow the dirt road (and the official trail).
combo	This is easily doable since it is most of the time well marked (note: a couple of junctions are missing signs) but for hikers not very exciting.
combo	We had decided to go with a guide since we prefer to take small local footpaths, like to have a translator so that we're able to communicate with people and learn about local industries and culture.
combo	Fred proved of indispensable value: most of the time we followed local small walking trails and we visited a.o.
combo	a local church, saw how charcoal was made, cassava roots grinded and fisher boats were sealed; and visited a coffee washing station and a little coffee plantation.
combo	The scenery is breathtaking, accommodation more than adequate ((Kinunu guesthouse really nice) and food delicious (if you want snacks like nuts, bars or chocolate, you should buy them in Gisenyi since there is hardly anything available on the way).
combo	The hike was absolutely delightful and our favorite part of our Rwanda trip: thank you Fred and Francis!"
combo	"Lake Kivu is one of the Great African Lakes that lies on the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
combo	It is part of the Albertine Rift.
combo	Lake Kivu provides its water to the great Ruzizi River that flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.
combo	It has a surface area of 2,700 sq.
combo	km, with a maximum width of 48 km and a length of 89 km.
combo	It is a lifeline of Gisenyi town.
combo	On the Rwandese side, the lake forms many spectacular sandy beaches.
combo	Rubavu Public Beach is one of the most famous ones among others.
combo	some locals claim Lake Kivu now has bilharzia in it and we have to take Bilharzia pills before a dip into the lake."
combo	Unfortunately it was foggy the day we've visited so we couldn't see very well all around the Lake but the atmosphere and the landscape were beautiful.
combo	"Experiencing boat ride in this great lake is indeed great.
combo	Many islands, spectacular views, birding and fishing experiences are awesome"
combo	"After going through reviews on boat trips in Kibuye, We decided to take our chances and engaged Claude.
combo	We made our booking over the phone-where he also took the liberty to explain the different tours he offers.He actually gave us a discount!
combo	He was punctual and took us to 3 main islands which are: Monkey, Napoleon and Peace.
combo	He would explain the history behind each of the islands in detail.
combo	He helped us to hike Napoleon Island and we managed to capture the beautiful views of Lake Kivu.
combo	He also showed us around the beautiful town of Kibuye and went with us to different hotels for lunch and dinner.
combo	I recommend Claude to anyone who will visit Kibuye.
combo	He is very honest, professional and a very good communicator.
combo	Here's his number: +250 789 085 982."
combo	"I went on a great, 3 hour, boat trip with Claude, would definitely recommend anyone (also solo, female travelers) to go on a boat trip with him!
combo	+250789085982, Kibuye) He is very good at making the boat ride as pleasant as possible and thinks along with the planning or any restrictions you might have.
combo	The volcanic islands you can visit are tiny but stunning, you can see many birds, but also monkeys.
combo	Furthermore, there are some interesting social - historical stories about Lake Kivu that Claude can explain very well.
combo	He is a well educated, friendly, happy, young man who has knowledge on geography, history and African languages.
combo	I had a great time, and wish Claude the best for the future!"
combo	"John is 27, a really nice local guy who takes you on a 3-4 hours boat trip.
combo	We really enjoyed ourselves.
combo	We even spent more time after the trip in the nearby beach bar to hear something about the ruandan culture.
combo	His English is really good and he has a lot of information to give.
combo	We can really recommend him!
combo	And he had student pricing!
combo	Phone number: 00250784666529 Prices around 30.000 RWF for all three islands, with sun protection"
combo	"After reading the reviews here, we decided to hit Claude up on his phone.
combo	It was easy to arrange a tour with him for the next day in the morning.
combo	We did three islands (monkey island, Napoleon island and peace island).
combo	Claude knew a lot about the lake, its history and the country in general.
combo	The islands were so beautiful, we hiked to the top of Napoleon island where you enjoy a breathtaking view over the whole region, went swimming in the lake and even saw a monkey!
combo	We thought it was reasonably priced and very well organised, he knows what he's doing.
combo	I really recommend doing a lake Kivu tour if you're in the region and do it with Claude, he's a genuinely nice guy and very knowledgeable.
combo	Here's his number: +250 789 085 982"
combo	Great morning boat ride to pass a couple of hours.
combo	Go directly to the boat operators vs. booking through the hotel to save $150 on the rental.
combo	"We spent a gorgeous half day on Claude's boat going around the islands off the shore of Kibuye on Lake Kivu.
combo	Claude was very knowledgeable about the lake's history, flora and fauna and took us to the top of an island hill with incredible views.
combo	Claude could read our group's mood perfectly and adjusted his tour based on when we wanted to relax and take in the view or pepper him with questions.
combo	Highly recommend!
combo	Claude: +250789085982"
combo	"Was there almost the whole day and I experienced the boat trip and it was so amazing and unforgettable it's a piece of heaven we visited the small beautiful islands: girls island, Bonaparte island, Mukundu island etc"
combo	"It feels weird to say this was one of the highlights of my trip, but hopefully you understand what I mean.
combo	I learned so much, experienced deep emotions and felt a connection to Rwanda’s past and present."
combo	"The lake is breath taking, with great view.
combo	Lots of islands, pathed with bats.
combo	I recommend it for relaxation and great feel"
combo	"From Kibuye (Karongi) you can take boat trips on Lake Kivu to nearby islands: Napoleon Island with its colony of fruit bats and Amahoro Island, which became popular locally for the sundowner bar set up on the island seasonally!
combo	It’s also possible to visit Kibuye’s genocide memorial church, with brightly coloured stained-glass windows, in a quiet location on a hill above Lake Kivu.
combo	Despite a tragic history, it’s a place for peaceful contemplation."
combo	"A very nice experience visiting some of the many islands surrounding Kibuye, which have no secrets for Claude!
combo	He will tell you everything about the country, its history, it's specialties, its customs, its industry,...
combo	It seems recommended to leave early in order to see the monkeys.
combo	If you bring bananas, hide them from the guide and driver!
combo	Climb Napoleon's hat and watch the bats, take a relaxing bath on peace highland, observe local plantations, take a discrete look at Claire's socks,... Claude can also take you to Kibuye, having lunch in a local buffet, visiting the market,.. To reach him:+250 789 085 982"
combo	"We wanted a boat tour of the lake from Kibuye to several of the islands.
combo	Claude had been reviewed by a few people and I called him.
combo	We set a time and he even cam, via motorbike, to our hotel to guide us to the boat.
combo	He is extremely knowledgable and shared a lot of interesting history and facts.
combo	He took us by several islands, and also three where we were able to walk/hike them.
combo	We visited Monkey Island, Bat Island and Christmas Island.
combo	From the top of Bat Island we saw a swimming sheep.
combo	Quite extraordinary.
combo	Claude is very reasonably priced and speaks English well.
combo	I highly recommend him and it is a lovely way to spend half a day.
combo	Claude's # +250 789 085 982"
combo	Visit Lake Kivu more time on my life and find very warm welcoming with amazing overview.
combo	Last time hike through Congo Nile Trail and was one of the most beautiful experience in my life.
combo	"We spent two days in lake Kivu.
combo	Firts days just relaxing and second one did a boat ride.
combo	Saw bats, blue monkeys and swim cows."
combo	Lake Kivu is an awesome place to relax and regroup yourself after some busy days.
combo	It's a happy place.
combo	Paradis Lodge is a great place with individual chalets.
combo	Food in restaurant is good.
combo	We also enjoyed the cultural dancers that entertained us during the evening.
combo	"I visited lake Kivu with a friend in February.
combo	It was an incredibly tranquil spot.
combo	We stayed on the waters edge in a charming hotel, Malahide, were the staff were friendly.
combo	We went on a day long kayak trip and went to the hot springs, saw the fish farm and saw the famous fishing boats.
combo	We had a very nice guide with us ."
combo	We were lucky that our guesthouse contacted Claude to take us on a beautiful boat ride around the islands of Lake Kivu.
combo	The next day he took us on a little walking tour around the town of Kibuye.
combo	It was interesting to see how the people lived and how he was sponsoring kids to get a proper education.
combo	You can get hold of Claude on telephone number: +250 789 085 982
combo	I loved being at Lake Kivu as it is the most beautiful lake I have seen.
combo	Nestled in the mountains.
combo	Great islands to visit.
combo	Boating on the lake is calm and peaceful.
combo	"If you're looking for a place to get away from Kigali and enjoy some relative peace and quiet, I highly recommend spending a few days and nights near Lake Kivu.
combo	You can stay in Gisenyi or Kabuye, at any number of guesthouses, hotels, and a few Airbnb options.
combo	Best of all, you can enjoy a boat ride or a bit of kayaking on the lake--perfect for birders, especially."
combo	"We spent a wonderful afternoon boating around the lake, stopping to see monkeys, bats, gardens and also had a short walk to the top of the bat island for an excellent 365 degree view.
combo	Our guide was a nice local man called Claude.
combo	He not only quoted us a fair price (unlike many guides associated with hotels), he was prompt, polite and very knowledgeable, answering all of our questions.
combo	It's a great activity to spend an afternoon and I would gladly recommend Claude.
combo	You can contact him on the number below: Claude ‭+250 789 085 982‬"
combo	"I boat ride out to the islands of Lake Kivu is a must do if your in Kabuye.
combo	We were able to feed the monkeys on one island, see the bats on another and check out amazing views across the lake.
combo	We saw otters and eagles and visited a farming island which was interesting.
combo	Around Kabuye you’ll be approached by numerous boat “captains” who offer the same tour and various prices.
combo	After meeting a few we found and used Claude.
combo	He was great; he was very knowledgeable able the lake and animals, he was very friendly and made sure that we had a great time and he didn’t try charge us a high price but offered a fair price right from the start.
combo	Claude ‭+250 789 085 982‬"
combo	Tge ambient was good and reception pretty quicker than the usual.it is a place to be when you want to get away from the troubles and worries of modern civilizations.
combo	"There is a small hot spring on one side of lake Kivu which is near Gisenyi, right across from many of the hotels along the lakeside.
combo	It is very rudimentary, with cement bags stacked around the pools to make them deep enough.
combo	The hot spring feeds both pools that have been created, one of the springs is extremely hot, the other is very hot still but bearable.
combo	Locals go here, and they play music over loud speakers.
combo	There are local people there who will give you a massage for cheap.
combo	I recommend going in the morning or evening when the sun isn't beating down to make the experience better."
combo	"Upon reading the review and recommendation of previous reviewer Scullyster, I called his cell number and contacted Choban for a cruise of the lake.
combo	Things were pretty much as described and on point as previous reviews.
combo	I think one big reason to come to Kibuye is to take on such a boat cruise, otherwise there isn’t much to do around town.
combo	Choban was cordial and helpful as a boat captain.
combo	I had quite an enjoyable time visiting the 2 islands, Neapolitan and Monkey.
combo	I do want to point out though, that the fee I paid (and what he asked for), was not what the previous reviewer indicated.
combo	He now charges 1500 RWF per hour, and when we returned he told me we had gone over the two hour mark and therefore I owed him a sum of 4000 RWF.
combo	The fact is we were barely over two hours and not even quite at 2.5 but I didn’t want to “nickel and dime” with him.
combo	I was going to tip him that much anyway, so I just gave him what he asked and that’s it.
combo	Just wanted to point this out so other fellow travelers be aware.
combo	Overall was a good experience."
combo	"Anybody traveling to Rwanda should definitely include Kibuye and surely a boat ride on Kivu Lake.
combo	Having spent 3 nights around the lake, a boat ride was the only thing my fiancee and I would have regretted to not having done.
combo	There are so many boat taxi , our captain was Bosco and he was really helpful and funny:)"
combo	"When I arrived in Kibuye & was walking to my hotel, a young man named Choban approached me & told me to call him for a boat ride.
combo	The next day I just happened to run into Choban again and decided to take the boat ride with him.
combo	As a woman traveling alone, I was a bit nervous, but I’m so glad I took the trip with Choban.
combo	His motor boat was outfitted with life vests.
combo	It was covered to keep the sun off.
combo	Even though the boat could have held at least 10-12 people, I was the only passenger.
combo	For 19,000 francs (about $21), we were gone for about 2 hours.
combo	First, we went to Monkey Island, where 4 monkeys live & where we took a short hike to the top of the hill on the island, while a monkey hiked with us.
combo	Choban pointed out Cow Island, so named because of the infamous swimming cows, and Napoleon Island, so named because it resembles Napolean’s hat.
combo	Then, we boated to Peace Island, where we hiked around the perimeter & Choban photographed me with Napolean’s hat in the background so that it appeared in the photo that the island hat was on my head.
combo	As we boated on beautiful Lake Kivu, he pointed out, & told stories about, other islands, including the island in the distance belonging to Democratic Republic of Congo.
combo	Choban’s English is good & he was an informative & interesting guide & eager to take photos of me.
combo	His phone # is 250787040518.
combo	What a fun & memorable afternoon I had boating with Choban on beautiful Lake Kivu!"
combo	We went to Lake Kivu to stay overnight after our hike to see the Gorillas in Ruhengeri.
combo	It was the best place to relax afterwards.
combo	We had a boat tour with Shima of Ames Boat Tours whilst there and he was very knowledgeable about the lake and it's history.
combo	It was interesting seeing the community work and live there.
combo	The place is also very clean.
combo	"The road is nice and beautiful, tea plantations and ladies carrying any and everything on their heads.
combo	The vast and beautiful lake is good for a swim or a boat ride.
combo	You must eat with your fingers a tilapia, grilled and fresh from the lake.
combo	Resorts are very reasonably priced and some are downright devine."
combo	Streets are super clean and safe!
combo	Beaches are also clean (we actually saw locals cleaning the beach one morning) and nice to take a walk on.
combo	Depending on where you swim it’s good to know if it’s a good spot to leave you’re stuff on the beach while you swim.
combo	I’ve heard people warn us to not leave our things lying around on the public beach area.
combo	We swam there however and had no problem as someone was watching our stuff for us.
combo	Lots of nice activities to do on and around the lake.
combo	It’s a beautiful spot worth visiting!
combo	"There's plenty of things to do: kayaking, boat tours, lounging at the beach, etc.
combo	And you can do it from Gisenyi, Kibuye, or Kamembe."
combo	The lake is so big that at times it seems like a sea.
combo	It is a dynamic sight because of small hills in and around it.
combo	"We travelled to Lake Kivu from Kigali in the morning and returned late afternoon.
combo	We went there by local bus and back by private taxi.
combo	The lake was a lovely surprise.
combo	Our taxi driver advised us not to go to any of the hotels in the area, since these were too expensive according to him.
combo	He took us to a local place, that was very cheap.
combo	We bought fresh fish (tilapia) for our lunch from one of the women selling them on the premises.
combo	While we took a leisurely boat ride, they cooked it for us.
combo	It was very delicious, eaten while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
combo	Definitely a must visit if you're in Rwanda."
combo	The lake is safe to swim in - we were at Kibuye and took boat trips out to the islands to see colonies of bats and then swim in the clear waters.
combo	There are fishermen on the lake with interesting boats to look at and they are good to chat to.
combo	Further north at Gisenyi there are kayaking places; none such at Kibuye sadly.
combo	I went on a Day Trip of Lake Kivu on 06th January 2018 with a friend.
combo	a great experience to have.
combo	I was very very impressed.
combo	It's large like a sea.
combo	very calm water.
combo	but i wear a life jacket.
combo	We went on a day trip from Kigali (3hr car ride each way) organised by Satguru travel agency.
combo	Time spent mainly at Serena Hotel beach.
combo	Good day but there needs to be more clarity between the hotel/Satguru and clients as to what is involved.
combo	Light breakfast turned out to be just a drink - there was confusion as to whether we should pay for use of the beach.
combo	Average lake depth is almost 800ft.
combo	with no visibility.
combo	Depending on where you stay there is little to do other than a boat ride and looking at the lake.
combo	No beach.
combo	"Very relaxing environment, good for a weekend away Boat ride to the nearby islands were great, which included a hike to the peak of them"
combo	"Very pretty lake, with many islands and small fishing boats.
combo	Many kingfishers and cormorants, plus some birds of prey.
combo	Went to the bat island and saw loads of bats flying around overhead.
combo	Also went to one of the inhabited islands and wandered around speaking to the locals, where we were invited to the local nursery, school and hospital.
combo	Headed up to the Northern part of the lake which was also nice."
combo	Nice to see and get relax We can get kivu from Kigali by 3 hrs road journey Road id good Boating as per our requirements we can use how ever we need.. 2 hrs for 25000 RWF we paid.
combo	"I stayed in Kibuye and took a half-day boat ride to 'chapeau de Napoleon' island.
combo	The views are lovely and the temperature was perfect for a refreshing dip in the lake.
combo	Very picturesque and peacefully quiet,"
combo	"I am glad to see the beautiful fishing boat and see different kinds of fishing method.
combo	There are small two hot-spring nearby, admission fee is needed.
combo	One deaf woman stationed at the hotspring will offer you massage with the mud.
combo	The fisherman village are charming and beautiful, worth to spend a day here."
combo	"A 4 hour road trip from Kigali took me to Rubavu (previously known as Gisenyi).
combo	One could see Goma (DRC) from Rubavu and Bukavo (DRC) from Cyangugu on the far southern part of the Lake.
combo	I prefer Rubavo/Gisenyi.
combo	The lake is very serene, boat rides and swimming is done here.
combo	I enjoyed the ambiance of Inzozi Beach hotel which was nicely built."
combo	"I went to both Gisenyi and Kibuye to spend a weekend on Lake Kivu.
combo	If you only have time for one, go to Gisenyi - there's more to do there."
combo	"I spent a day at Lake Kivu in November 2015 and had a wonderful time.
combo	The lake is huge.
combo	I especially enjoyed the small, sardine like fish that seemed to be a specialty of the restaurant by the Lake side."
combo	"This place is perfect, quiet, peaceful, and so, so beautiful.
combo	Beach areas, restaurants (and hotels if you feel like staying, boat rides, views of the Congo.
combo	Definitely worth going to."
combo	A tranquil area where you can have lunch and enjoy the views of the lake and surrounding hills.
combo	There aren't many things to do but worth a visit if you have time on your hand.
combo	"We visited Lake Kivu from Gysenyi (Rwanda) side.
combo	You can find public and private beaches.
combo	During the week, on the public beach there are not many people taking a bath, so you can enjoy it like a private one.
combo	You can have a boat trip on the lake from the hulk.
combo	Serena beach is very nice, you can enjoy there a glass of fresh drink on the terrace of the hotel.
combo	Here you can rent surfing equipment and kayak/canoe.
combo	Definitely recommended for those who want a relaxing experience in Rwanda."
combo	We drove the full length of lake Kivu - the road is currently under construction and is impassible wthout a 4x4 as there are large pools of water.
combo	It was definitely worth a look and amazingly large.
combo	"Lake Kivu is probably the safest lake in Africa.
combo	With crystal clear, deep blue waters and no hippos or crocs, you can swim and explore, discover and now you can also journey in modern sea kayaks along its verdant shores.
combo	And sea kayaking has to be the best way to see Lake Kivu!"
combo	"it is an awesome place to visit, you can swim in the lake and have a boat ride within the lake it good for a family visit where children can enjoy the small beach and warm water"
combo	We went there as a couple for a few days (but also great place to stay as a family).
combo	We stayed in the beautifully decorated African Bungalows at the Waterfront Resort at Lake Kivu.
combo	The staff is very friendly and helpful.
combo	I would definitely recommend this place!!
combo	It is very relaxing and inspiring!
combo	"this place is on the border of D R Congo & Rwanda.
combo	around 4 hour journey from Kigali, went there just to experience the countryside of Rwanda.
combo	this fresh water lake is huge and like a sea"
combo	"Gorgeous lake and wonderful experience.One really cannot believe that Gisenyi is just across the border from Goma.
combo	Recommend visiting Paradis Malahide, a wonderful spot on the water with great food."
combo	Rwanda is one of the cleanest countries in Africa.
combo	It is very safe too.
combo	You can walk at the beach and no one bothers you.
combo	Very relaxing.
combo	There is not a lot of variety for food but fish is fresh and made delicious.
combo	"There are a lot of ways to enjoy Lake Kivu, we mainly experienced it by hiking the Congo Nile Trail along the lake from Gisenyi/Rubavu to Kibuye, but before hiking the trail we also did a Traditional Night Fishing Experience in Rubona (outside Rubavu).
combo	First of all, Night Fishing Experience was arranged through the RDB tourism office (i emailed a few weeks in advance, our guide for the experience (who was also our wonderful guide for the congo nile trail) came to Paradis Malahide where we were staying and then we walked just down the street to where the boats dock.
combo	The night fishing experience, I will way, was not a good one, but there are aspects of it that are really cool and with a little knowledge, you could have a good experience, for sure.
combo	We did come away with an incredible story and a totally authentic experience.
combo	The ride out on the lake (the first Hour, i'd say) are great.
combo	If you could hire the fisherman to just take you out on the lake and then return you to sure without the actual fishing part, that might be ideal.
combo	The two boats on the outside of the center boat have men rowing in unison by whistling and singing to keep in sync.
combo	It is amazing how strong and hardworking these guys are!
combo	They have some fun with it as well, throwing up oars occasionally.
combo	Once they get out on the lake, they put the nets out and extend the boats to spread the nets as it gets dark.
combo	Then they light the gas lanterns to attract the fish to the nets.
combo	Gas lanterns pump out black smoke that you cannot get away from because you are on a boat.
combo	If you are at all sensitive to breathing massive amounts of smoke, you will start to feel a bit ill.
combo	If you are female, be aware that you will be the only female on board and they will not have though about what to do when you need to use the restroom.
combo	Prepare to use the plastic contain used to bale the water from the boat while the men turn their backs and move to the other end of the boat.
combo	It will get chilly at night, so take warm clothing and waterproof jackets and rain pants in case a storm blows in, as happened to us.
combo	The waves get a bit choppy if that happens, so be prepared that you may get seasick, which has never happened to me before, but in combination with the smoke fumes, both of us became quite ill. Our wonderful guide tried to hold a piece of plastic over us the whole time and did all he could to keep our experience on the pleasant side, but soon I was vomiting into the same container I had just used to urinate in!
combo	We were out on the boats from at 5:30pm to 12:30am, even though we were told we'd be back around 10pm....but the fish weren't coming to the nets because of the storm, so we had to stay out later.
combo	It was a grueling night, but the fishermen do this EVERY night no matter the weather.
combo	They work SO hard.
combo	After they took up the nets and got a measly amount of fish because of the storm, they rowed us back to Paradis Malahide.
combo	We tipped our guide and fisherman (it wasn't anyone's fault our experience wasn't good.
combo	they don't control the weather or our sea sickness and they are just trying to make a living).
combo	If you want to have some experience with traditional night fishing, here are some tips: See if they will just take you out on the water and bring you back before they do their fishing for the night.
combo	OR, just stay at Paradis Malahide or one of the other nearby hotels and walk down to where the boats take off and watch them leave.
combo	The boys of the night fishermen all come see their dads off each night, until they grow old enough to join the ranks of the fishermen.
combo	If you really want to go out for the night fishing experience, perhaps bring a mask so you don't have to inhale the fumes, and check the weather to see if there is a storm brewing.
combo	Also, eat dinner before you go because there won't be anything for you to eat while you are out there.
combo	As far as shoes go, you need rain boots, not waterproof hiking boots.
combo	Maybe pick some up in Gisenyi beforehand and then donate them to the fisherman afterwards if you don't want to keep them.
combo	Your feet will be in 6+ inches of water at times in the boat.
combo	Be prepared that no accommodations/changes are going to be made just because there is a tourist along with them.
combo	It will be an authentic experience, for certain.
combo	They are kind and when we saw them the next day at the market/boat dock they shook our hands and were very friendly.
combo	We watched them go out the next night, but we were very glad to this time be on land!"
combo	"An excellent place to relax after a Gorilla trck, Serena is most expensive but is on the lake with its own beach and food is excellent.
combo	We travelled with a driver and 4x4 from Bizidanny in Kigaki, very helpful and informative"
combo	"felt lost in nature when I sat on sand near lake, beautiful so see such scenary, seems endless water and on one side you can see a number of mountains covered with mist even on a sunny day.
combo	Best time to go there is winter/rainy season.
combo	I went a bit late which was start of their summers Best way is to have a 4 X 4 else if like cheap option u can choose Bug services, which are very safe and reliable.
combo	Also visit DRC border which is nearby from Serena hotel.
combo	I forgot to tell earlier that I spend most of my day in serena private beach, which can be used by peoples who visit serena for lunch/drinks.
combo	If you have time you can also plan the island visit in middle of lake.
combo	Overall it was awesome."
combo	"Booked a two day gorilla trek in Bwindi from Kigali with Grace, who was super helpful in helping me understand options.
combo	We had a terrific driver, Abdulah, who made the whole process super smooth, from the border crossing, to helping us find a gorilla family we could get to quickly (so we could get back to Kigali for our flight that evening), and even was able to find a different loge we could shower at after our gorilla trek (to help us get back on time).
combo	The lodge we stayed the night at had beautiful views of surrounding area.
combo	Overall, would use this company again for future tours in the area!"
combo	"My wife and I had organised a 10 day tour in Rwanda, to fully explore this beautiful country.
combo	The organisation helped us managing all to our needs.
combo	Upon arrival, our guide Elisa travelled with us for 10 days, and briefed us about all necessary information needed, as well as about the Rwandees and Ugandan daily life and culture.
combo	We had multiple highlights during our trip, the Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking, Akagera National park, the colourful people and scenery, and Lake Kivu, just to name a few.
combo	I would highly recommend this organisation to anyone!"
combo	"We did gorilla trekking and chimp trekking we didn't have much time so bonita and grace sorted what we need and liased with us on budget, we went with mid range accommodation which worked well, I'm coeliac and managed to stay well most of the way round with Gluten free options available with the places being small they were able to cater for my needs.
combo	The organisation worked well one accommodation changed without notice but that didn't really bother us, our guide was ok not very talkative but did the driving and got us places safe and found us toilets etc when we needed them.
combo	He was more of a driver rather than getting to know us ect.
combo	Rwanda Tours did the job in a good budget for us"
combo	"This group was great value for money.
combo	Communicative, clear, and thoughtful.
combo	Some small hiccups with the transportation, but they proactively thought of a solution.
combo	In a country (i.e., Rwanda) that has a lot of expensive tour operators, they were ""just right"" in terms of cost and value.
combo	Would use it again."
combo	"Our booking started in August 2019, to do our trip in April 2020 which due to COVID, got cancelled.
combo	I had already paid a deposit, so Explore Rwanda Tours kept that until we were able to make our trip.
combo	Over the next 2.5 years I was in contact with Bonita and Grace so when we were able to book again, it was done quickly.
combo	They chose a lovely lodge for us to stay in in Bwindi - Buhoma Haven Lodge.
combo	The staff were very friendly and the food was delicious.
combo	On the day of our gorilla trek we were up early to get to the right part of Bwindi National Park.
combo	Once there we met our guide and started trekking.
combo	It didn't take long to find the Mukiza gorilla family who we then spent the next hour with.
combo	It was both amazing and surreal to be so close.
combo	It has been my husband's dream for many years, so he was in his element.
combo	Our driver Elisa who we spent 3 days with, was great.
combo	He was friendly, great to talk to, he stopped whenever we wanted to take photos of the scenery and he did some fantastic driving where it was very tricky in places!
combo	I would highly recommend Explore Rwanda Tours - the booking process was easy, price was great, lovely lodge, nice driver and most importantly, we got to see gorillas!
combo	Thanks so much!"
combo	"In connection with my visit to Rwanda for work, I also booked a 2-days game-drive trip to Akagera National Park in November 2022.
combo	3 Friends of mine spontaneously decided to join me on my first day, which was really last minute also for Sandra, my contact at Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	Everything was no problem at all though and the 2 Vincents (our very nice drivers) met us at our hotel.
combo	A perfect 2 days for me for sure and I can highly recommend Explore Rwanda Tours to anyone visiting this beautiful country.
combo	All the questions I had before arriving in Rwanda were professionally addressed and nothing was left to coincidence.
combo	The Vincents were very kind, professional and very knowledgeable too so we learned a lot about the country, its people, flora and fauna from them as well.
combo	I hope to be back soon again and will for sure be in touch with them for my next trip.
combo	For anyone trying to organize a trip in this country, at Explore Rwanda Tours you will be in good hands."
combo	"We had an wonderful 4 day visit to Akagera, tailored to our requirements.
combo	Our driver/guide was knowledgable, friendly, and took care of us throughout the trip.
combo	We were slightly concerned that the company is based in Uganda, but everything went smoothly.
combo	We stayed in the lodge, which was very comfortable, with friendly and helpful staff.
combo	Explore Rwanda are efficient, helpful, and provided us an excellent service."
combo	"We contacted Grace to tailor an itinerary for our trip to Rwanda.
combo	She sent us a proposal with different altenatives budget-wise.
combo	She was quick to make the adjustments we required and followed up with us during our trip.
combo	Elisa our driver was the best.
combo	He hired local guides who would help us with our bird watching even if this was not the topic of the outing.
combo	We had a great time in the national parks (Akagera, Nyungwe and Volcanoes).
combo	He was on time and was always there when the activities ended.
combo	This w«s a trip to remember in a great country, thanks to the people of Explore Rwanda Tours."
combo	"Did a wonderful safari through Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania with this tour company.
combo	They were responsive to all my questions beforehand and were able to tweak and change the itinerary per request to suit what we needed.
combo	Our drivers/tour guides were absolutely lovely and very knowledgeable.
combo	We saw so many beautiful animals everywhere, The people at the tour company checked in on us every single day while we were on safari to see if everything was going well.
combo	High recommend this company!"
combo	"As a wildlife enthusiast who runs a wildlife travel company, I tried Explore Rwanda as our travel partners for the first time.
combo	They organised our Gorilla, Golden Monkey and Chimpanzee treks across Volcanoes NP and Nyungwe, as well as stay in Kigali and transport through the trip.
combo	The entire experience of watching these beautiful creatures in their habitat was surreal.
combo	Grace deserves a special mention for being patient and available for all the changes in itinerary before the trip as well problem solving during.
combo	Our driver, Vincent, was clearly an expert for this route and he drove us safely, while sharing a number of interesting tidbits about Rwanda, Uganda, DRC, the forests, the people, culture, et all.
combo	Our car broke down once, but a replacement arrived within a half hour, and we were again on our way.
combo	Overall, service quality wise, this was a splendid experience!"
combo	This safari was amazing!
combo	We saw lot of animals in the park.
combo	The safari was very well organiséd by sandra ( she send us all informations that we need.
combo	And we had a exceptionnel driver (Vincent )so Nice and helpful And excellent guide too .
combo	We will recommanded 100%
combo	It was certainly one of the most incredible experiences I have had in my life.
combo	The whole day was perfectly organized and my guide was the best travel companion I could wish for
combo	"It was an amazing adventure, the most memorable moment in my life ever!.
combo	The cost are good in comparison to the another tourists agencies.
combo	The meals are good, the accommodation are really nice, bigs, cleans, safe.
combo	The road to arrive there (From Entebee to Bwindi National Natural Park) has some points that they are under construction and it takes longer (8 hours) to arrive to the park, but it was worth it because to see so close to you gorillas (and for sure the silverback male) it’s a wonderful experience.
combo	The agency is so good (Explore Ruanda Tour) the agent Grace is so kind, and the guide Elisa is always ready to serve people in order the tourists can be comfortable.
combo	Thanks!"
combo	"Very professional tour operator, which inquires about its clients’ satisfaction during the whole stay.
combo	Many thanks Grace.
combo	The lodges in the mountain/by the lake and the gorilla safari were an awesome experience.
combo	Special thanks to our guide, Haruna, very efficient and kind.
combo	He made our stay unforgettable!"
combo	"We visited Rwanda on a 9 day tour.
combo	Our driver/guide Fiston is absolutely the best.
combo	We went to Volcanoes Natl.park trekked the gorillas and the golden monkeys .
combo	The gorillas were the absolute highlight!
combo	Next off to Nyungwe NatlPark to trek the chimpanzee and tea plantation .
combo	So much fun.
combo	Lastly to Akagera Natl.Park.
combo	We were lucky enough to get to see the big 5 all in one day plus a lot of other animals.
combo	We stayed in the mid range hotels and were very happy.
combo	Everything with food and lodging was fantastic!.
combo	We were very happy with the way it was set up, but not quite informed of how long it would take to get from place to place.
combo	Probably should have added one or two more days for traveling.
combo	Fiston was so helpful and knowledgeable.
combo	I would recommend this to anyone!"
combo	"David is an absolutely fantastic guide, and is incredibly knowledgeable about not only the chimpanzees, but also the surrounding land and people.
combo	We had a blast tracking the chimpanzees through the forest, and were able to see them.
combo	It was a truly magical day.
combo	We also had an amazing time with our drive, Habat!
combo	He had the most positive attitude and was so awesome to spend time with!
combo	Highly recommend this company!"
combo	My fiancé and I had the pleasure of doing the Nyungwe chimpanzee tracking and canopy walk.
combo	It was amazing and Vincent was a great safe driver for us.
combo	My highlight was the Inyambo cows
combo	"Our entire team loved spending time with Explore Rwanda Tours team, and truly a big cheer and thank you to Habat and Bosco for being incredibly knowledgeable, having the best vibes and energy EVER, getting us everywhere we needed to safely and for their flexibility with coordinating two groups simultaneously.
combo	We loved our tour and treks with the chimpanzees, the canopy walk and the waterfall hikes.
combo	An unforgettable experience!!!"
combo	"Eddie, our tour guide, was a great guide and the tour was great.
combo	Everything was very well organised.
combo	Very happy"
combo	"My partner and I had an amazing three-day trip to Akagera National Park with the most perfect guide and driver Aboubakar, or Abu in short.
combo	Abu has made this trip to be the most joyful, precious, and unforgettable experience for us.
combo	Abu is professional, skilled, funny, kind, full of information, attentive, and always on time - making him the most perfect, competent, and knowledgeable guide there is.
combo	We would recommend him to anyone, as we are sure he will make everyone's experience as good as ours.
combo	The trip included a full-day game drive, a boat cruise, and a hike outside the borders of the park.
combo	Abu went out of his way to make sure we saw as many animals as possible, as close as possible - while of course always keeping everyone's safety in mind.
combo	We have seen elephants, a lion, leopards, water buffaloes, giraffes, lots of zebras, impalas, baboons, hippos, crocodiles - and many more!
combo	We are still reminiscing all these moments with great joy and will continue to do so.
combo	Abu, our dear friend, thank you for everything and we hope to meet again!!
combo	If we had to pick one downside; we would switch up the 'walk the line'-hike for something else like another game drive.
combo	We expected a walk where we could still spot some animals from outside of the park - but in reality it is more of an intense climb for 2,5 hours.
combo	Still nice views and a good workout - but not exactly what we expected.
combo	Thank you Sandra for always being easy to reach for questions about our trip and making sure everything was planned perfectly."
combo	"We had a great 2 full days in Akagera National Park which included a hike just outside the park, a lot of game driving, and a boat cruise.
combo	There was a minor hiccup in the planned tour which required a little re-working but it was all handled well and worked out perfectly in the end.
combo	Our first day consisted of the hike and a game drive which covered both the bushier southern end of the park and the more open grasslands at the north.
combo	We stopped at the Akagera Game Lodge for lunch which was awesome.
combo	They had a nice menu and our lunches were super delish.
combo	We stayed at the Karenge Bush Camp that night which was a total gem!
combo	It was much more than what we expected from a budget camp.
combo	We had more game driving to do the next day as we worked our way back down to Lake Ihema for an afternoon cruise.
combo	The cruise was excellent as it allowed us to view an impressive amount of bird life and also to watch some mammals from the water.
combo	Grace was our main contact and was very friendly, helpful, and quick to respond.
combo	Our tour guide, Bosco, was excellent.
combo	He was very knowledgeable, funny, and friendly and was very familiar with the park.
combo	He did his best to give us an awesome experience with tons of wildlife viewing and we had a lot of fun with him too.
combo	Highly recommended!!!"
combo	"Had a wonderful time with Akagera National Park Safaris!
combo	They were well organized - even though there was a booking problem for accommodation, they handled it quickly and even managed to give us an incredible upgrade, that blew our minds!
combo	The team is very adaptable: They were able to pick us up from our desired location, our driver was very kind and the tours we enjoyed on our safari were incredible and well planned.
combo	All included into a affordable price.
combo	Easy communication through WhatsApp.
combo	Would definitely recommend!"
combo	"We've just had two amazing weeks in beautiful Rwanda.
combo	All thanks to Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	It was the first time we used a local company to organize our vacation and we do not regret it.
combo	Our excellent and knowledgeable driver, Vincent, drove us safely and comfortable to Uyungwe, Lake Kivu, Volcanoes and Akagera no matter quality of roads or density of traffic.
combo	He also helped us with everything we wished, from finding Coke Zero in Musanze to arrange, on a very short notice, a change to the itinerary.
combo	We also have to mention Grace at the office who in front of our journey patiently set up and tweaked our itinerary every time we changed our minds or just wanted to add stuff.
combo	The result was a journey packed with fantastic activities and experiences, just like we wanted.
combo	She also kept checking on us during the trip making us feeling apriciated."
combo	"We recently returned from a three-day, gorilla-trekking excursion (Kahuzi-Biega National Park) through Rwanda and into the DRC that was organized by Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	We have nothing but absolutely positive comments to say about this company.
combo	Not only was the price were were quoted both fair and affordable, but the main reason we chose to go with them is due to the excellent communication we received.
combo	Our initial communication was with Bonita, who worked quickly to put together an itinerary and quote for us, as well as assist us in having all of the information necessary for the trip.
combo	As our arrival date approached, all of our communication was done through Grace.
combo	We have visited over 70 countries and booked tours with countless tour companies, and we can honestly say that Grace is probably the best agent we have ever dealt with.
combo	She communicated with us every step of the way, checking in on us as we arrived at each place in our itinerary, then calling us after our gorilla trek to ask how everything went.
combo	We felt like we always knew what was going on, which is something that most tour companies lack.
combo	Thanks to Grace, we also felt safe and secure every step of the way.
combo	As for the gorilla trek experience, it was AMAZING!
combo	One of the top adventures we have ever been on and a must for every traveler.
combo	We arrived in Kigali, then drove several hours to Bukavu, DRC, where we stayed one night.
combo	Once we arrived, the guides at Kahuzi-Biega knew how to make us feel welcome and safe.
combo	One of the guides took my wife's phone to get the close-up shots that have made our fellow travelers jealous when we show them the photos.
combo	After the excursion, we drove across the border to stay in Rwanda then drove back to Kigali the next day.
combo	Originally, we were supposed to stay two nights in Bukavu, but we liked having our second night in a more quiet, resort-type location and would recommend the same for others.
combo	Our drivers and guides who helped us get to and from the gorilla trek were also amazing!
combo	They were easy to talk to while also giving us time to rest along the way.
combo	We would absolutely book with this company again, and we will encourage all of our traveling friends to do the same."
combo	"I want to tell you about a wonderful trip that I made in this month of July, and that I use the services of the company EXPLORE RWANDA TOURS.
combo	To use the services of this company to make this trip, help me to meet and live an unforgettable experience with the Gorillas.
combo	I have done other Safaris, but this company and its staff like Bonita, and Grace were always up to date step by step from the planning, arrival and each day of the safari, attending every moment to all the details to achieve what it was, and it was great .
combo	I also want to especially acknowledge Elisa, who was much more than a guide, since he asked us things simply to know us more and to please us, so that every day we could see all the beauty and attractiveness of both the Gorillas and the Safaris that he himself took us.
combo	Doing a Safari is not difficult, but doing a Safari that meets expectations and even more, is not easy and this can only be achieved with professionalism, dedication and this is what this great team of EXPLORE RWANDA TOURS did, I do not know simply to recommend their services widely but to thank Bonita, Grace so much and especially Elisa, that is a very nice person and make possible to do this safari which I will remember all my life.
combo	YOU VERY VERY MUCH!"
combo	"This is a great company to use for travel in Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	The booking process was handled extremely efficiently.
combo	Grace is an amazing person who took care of the minutest of details and kept track of me when I was on the road to make sure I was safe and comfortable.
combo	The drivers/guides on both my trips (Vincent and Lorand) were excellent, friendly, and enthusiastic.
combo	The trips (4 days and 2 days) were well organized, the guides were flexible, obliging, and fun people to have on your tour.
combo	Thanks much for making it such a great trip!"
combo	We are a Swedish couple who went for a five nights-six days safari with Expore Rwanda Tours the first week of July.
combo	We had a great experience and the company certainly lived up to their promises.
combo	Our driver Vincent was-apart from being a very nice person-very flexible and shared some good information about Rwanda.
combo	The lodging was very good and we had overall wonderful experiences.
combo	Foremost of course the close encounter with the mountain gorillas and also the less famous Golden Monkeys.
combo	We also spend a very interesting day at Lake Kivu and dipped our feet in the hot springs there.
combo	Also got to see a lot of the colorful and very beautiful countryside of Rwanda.
combo	We highly recommend Expolre Rwanda Tours
combo	"We had a great time on this trip, it was well organized, the driver arrived punctually, and all formalities were taken care of very efficiently.
combo	Our guide went out of his way to make sure we saw the maximum number of animals, and was very chatty and personable, as was the driver.
combo	Sandra at Explore Rwanda was very friendly and very efficient, keeping in touch at all times to check everything was OK. We were very happy with our experience and I would warmly recommend."
combo	"Really words won’t be enough to express the true feelings, we came as strangers but we are back as a family and friends for a life.
combo	My experience with Rwanda explore tour was above the expectations starting from the sweetest ever Ms. Grace who was patient with me to finalize my itinerary till our coolest guide Mr. Habat who we enjoyed 7 days trip with as he made our days awesome and unforgettable.
combo	Thank you from the heart guys and it won’t be the last."
combo	"We had a great trip with the tour company, we did a 3 day tour in Kigali and to the Volcanoes National Park to do a gorilla trek.
combo	The company was very responsive in organising and booking the trip, responding quickly to queries.
combo	Vincent, our tour guide, was also good at communicating and picked us up on time and took us on a tour of Kigali.
combo	We would have liked to have had a bit more information from the guide on Rwanda and the sights we saw, our communication was a bit difficult at times.
combo	But he was a very safe driver and took us to Volcanoes National Park without any issues.
combo	The lodge we stayed in was nice and up to the expectations and the planning on the day of the gorilla trek went smoothly.
combo	It would have been helpful to get some more information on the options for the gorilla trek before the day, as we were asked to choose but did not have any knowledge of the difference in the routes.
combo	The gorilla trekking experience itself was amazing and the opportunity of a lifetime.
combo	We ended up not staying 2 nights in Volcanoes National Park as it was raining and there was nothing to do so we went back to Kigali one night early, we appreciated the flexibility of Vincent in the change of plans."
combo	"My girlfriend and I went on our first safari with Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	Our guide was Bosco who was an amazing tour guide, if you are lucky enough to get him then you are guaranteed a brilliant time.
combo	He was highly knowledgeable, extremely helpful, and just an overall great guy.
combo	The tour was well organized and we were constantly looked after.
combo	I would highly recommend using this company, we found it a brilliant experience that I would definitely do again.
combo	Thank you Bosco and Explore Rwanda Tours!"
combo	"I highly recommend our guide Vincent!
combo	Explore rwanda we're very raspberries and put together an amazing tour.
combo	Vincent was our personal guide taking us around and a great joy to have with us!
combo	We asked for a full itinerary and really got fond of value for our dollars spent!
combo	We saw elephants, crocodiles rhino's, hippos and mountain gorilla's in 2 days!
combo	The cultural experiences ended up being a real highlight.
combo	I was nervous going in , but found that the Rwandans were eager to share and brought beauty and energy to the experience!
combo	The accommodations were far beyond my expectations, I found it difficult to find good options online so was very very happy with the local knowledge that came with our tour!"
combo	"I have travelled extensively, and this trip rates as one of the best trips of my life.
combo	From the start of the process, which included my interactions booking the trip with Bonita, to the very end of the trip where my extraordinary driver and my guide, Elisa, delivrered me safely to my guest house, things ran seemlessly and ""as promised.""
combo	I felt cared for and I felt as is all of the staff - from the trackers , to the park guide, to the porters, to the hotel staff, were invested in provding me with an unforgettalbe experience.
combo	The park staff had a well thought out process for separating the trekkers by age and by ability.
combo	My group was fortunate in that our trekkers located a family of gorillas.
combo	Even if that had not been the case, the travel through the mountainous villages, farmland, and towns was an adventure unto itself and would have been worth making this journey to Uganda.
combo	I felt as is I really ""saw"" the country.
combo	As beautiful as this country is, in the end, it is the people that make the ultimate difference in how a journey ""lives"" in your memory.
combo	To all of the staff that I encountered with Explore Rwanda Tours, but most especially to Bonita and to Elisa, you will certainly ""live"" in my memory forever.
combo	Thank you for everything that you did to make this trip extraordinary.
combo	I won't forget you."
combo	"Explore Rwanda Tours made our trip to Africa incredible.
combo	We experienced challenge after challenge to get this trip scheduled due to COVID-19 and the tour company was incredibly accommodating.
combo	We had to reschedule everything three times and each time, they were gracious and friendly.
combo	We had a very smooth entrance into the country with knowledgeable and nice guides at every step.
combo	Our primary guide (Eddie) was everything you could want in a guide through totally foreign crazy city streets, vast savannah, and jungles.
combo	He made great suggestions and expertly carted us to all sorts of urban and animal adventures.
combo	We spent a day with chimpanzees and other creatures of the jungle.
combo	We always felt safe and the hiking was just the right amount of intensity.
combo	Our day trip to spend time with gorillas as absolutely breath-taking.
combo	It really was an adventure of a lifetime.
combo	Once again, the guides were friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable and after a bit of rigorous hiking, we were able to spend two hours observing a family of gorillas.
combo	So cool!
combo	Our entire trip lasted 10 day (two of which were travel).
combo	We stayed in unique ""boutique-y"" lodges along the way and the service and food were really impressive and unique.
combo	I think we over-prepared a bit after having read all sorts of reviews and advice so we had a good idea of what to expect and what to pack.
combo	I was really grateful for waterproof hiking boots.
combo	There were far fewer mosquitos than I expected and most of the places we stayed had netting around the beds so this wasn't an issue.
combo	I was impressed with all of the delicious produce essentially lining every street (bananas, pineapple, jackfruit, tomatoes, mangos.
combo	I do like nice wine and it took me a while to figure out that the type of wine I like generally comes from South Africa so I needed to specify this when ordering.
combo	My husband says that to date, this is the best trip he has every experienced.
combo	We were enchanted with the animals, landscape, and culture and our guide, along with this tour company, made it all possible."
combo	Explore Rwanda Tours made my stay in Rwanda truly amazing.
combo	They honour of their way to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in an unforgettable country.
combo	Special thanks to Bonita for arranging everything and certainly to Habat for being the best driver and guide I’ve had
combo	"Me and my husband had an organized trip to Rwanda.
combo	Everything was great.
combo	What made the trip excellent having guide like HABAT, if I can give him more than 5 stars I will do !"
combo	"I did the three-day Dian Fossey Camp/Gorilla Trek, with Bosco as my ERT Guide.
combo	First, Bosco was phenomenal, personable, knowledgable, pleasant, funny and very kind, consider yourself blessed if you get Bosco, and I hope the others are as wonderful.
combo	There were some hiccups with my PCR test (you must have a PCR to see the gorillas) but that was because mine was 4 days old by the time I went on the gorilla trek, but it worked to my advantage (just make sure you are tested within three days, and if not, you can get tested on site if you're doing multiple days and gorillas are NOT your first day trek ($50)).
combo	I chose the budget option and stayed at Muhabura Hotel, which isn't ""fancy"" but I absolutely loved.
combo	Great breakfast and dinner and bar and Theo was fantastic - also, it's where Dian Fossey stayed whenever she was staying in the town and you can still stay in her room (#12).
combo	Bosco was timely, knowledgeable, got me where I needed to be exactly when I needed to be there.
combo	The hikes were amazing, with the gorilla trek being a dream come true.
combo	I was within ten feet of the silverback even closer to the family, including a 6-month old, and at the end two of the family passed within two feet of me.
combo	Utterly amazing, and the park guides and trackers were equally amazing.
combo	With the $1500 permits, even the budget tours are pricy (and PLEASE tip your ERT guide, your trek guides, porters and others - it isn't much and is a large part of their income) but you're not going to find a more budget-friendly company, and the very second you see the gorillas you'll realize it's worth twice that much."
combo	"My partner and I have just finished an incredible two week tour of Rwanda with Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	We visited Kigali, Nungwe National Park for the rainforest and chimp trekking, Lake Kivu, Volcanoes National Park for the gorillas and golden monkeys and finally Akagera National Park.
combo	Firstly, Bonita was amazing at communicating with me when organising the trip.
combo	She was quick to reply and happy to make amendments if we needed them.
combo	Explore Rwanda was great value for money in comparison to other companies I approached.
combo	All the way through the trip Bonita kept in touch to make sure everything was going well.
combo	Secondly our guide Bosco was the best guide we could’ve asked for.
combo	He made our trip really special.
combo	He is knowledgable and passionate about his country.
combo	He helped us organise our covid tests and we never had to worry about a thing.
combo	He was always on time and has a kind manner.
combo	Rwanda is a beautiful country with incredible wildlife.
combo	It was so safe and clean, I would recommend visiting Rwanda now whilst there are still relatively few tourists.
combo	If you do, be sure to go with Explore Rwanda and Bosco as your guide!"
combo	"Bonita helped us organize a memorable trip to see the gorillas in Virunga.
combo	The whole planning process went smoothly and they were very flexible even with our tight schedule.
combo	The drivers, Habat and Moses, were also great and we felt safe the whole trip!"
combo	I had booked this trip some time in May.
combo	We were going to Masai Mara and had decided to visit Rwanda Gorillas and Golden Monkey.
combo	Working with Bonita of Explore Rwanda Tour was a pleasure.
combo	We settled on three days trip to Volcanoes National Park to trek for Gorillas and Golden Monkey.
combo	Vincent our driver picked us from Marriott and we were driven to 5 Volcanoes Hotel.
combo	It’s a nice property and we were lucky to be upgraded to their presidential suit.
combo	Both days trekking was awesome.
combo	Vincent was very helpful and knowledgeable.
combo	Our trekking was well organized and we had great encounters with Gorillas and Golden Monkey.
combo	I will definitely recommend them.
combo	"I just returned from my trip to Rwanda.
combo	It was fantastic!
combo	Traveling during corona times can be trying and tiresome.
combo	Explore Rwanda made it easy.
combo	Bosco picked me up at the designated hotel 24 hours after my quarantine and test results were in.
combo	He took over any worries about the hotel reservations, covid retesting schedule and all activities with ease.
combo	He switched around the program a little so I just had to retest once instead of twice.
combo	That was great and saved me some money as well.
combo	He was very knowledgeable about all the activities I had planned.
combo	Traveling alone, it was just the two of us and we talked a lot.
combo	It was so interesting hearing about Rwanda’s history and the National parks’ animals.
combo	All activities went smooth and gave ample travel time to the next destination.
combo	I felt like I was visiting with a friend.
combo	Not only did I see an absolutely beautiful country but learned a lot about it as well.
combo	I’ll miss Rwanda - but I’ll be visiting again.
combo	Thank you Bosco and Bonita for all your planning and hard work.
combo	Here is a picture of Bosco hard at work finding animals in Akagera National Park.
combo	Above and Beyond: He had my camera since he is a better photographer than I am.
combo	He got some great pictures for me!"
combo	"I had arranged the Rwanda part of our trip (the other part being a safari in Tanzania) with Explore Rwanda Tours, communicating with Bonita all throughout the last year up to our departure.
combo	She is a great communicator, always keeping me informed about what was going on in Rwanda, as to the COVID situation.
combo	We left our deposit money with them last year, and so all we had to do was get her the rest of the money for this year’s trip a few weeks ahead of time.
combo	Bonita arranged the driver, the lodge that we stayed at up in Volcanoes Nat’l Park, the gorilla trek permit cost, the 2 treks—gorilla and golden monkey.
combo	She was excellent in getting back to me quickly when I had questions, via email.
combo	And while there in Rwanda, we talked by Whatsapp.
combo	She would fill us in on the next activity and always asked how everything as going on the trip.
combo	we totally relied on her to get us to a facility within 3 days of going to Tanzania for another PCR COVID test.
combo	Luckily, there was a hospital on the way to the park and we dropped by to get our tests there.
combo	Rwanda is very organized about COVID results—you put in your passport number and it takes you to your results pages, which is cumulative.
combo	Our driver and guide was Vincent and he spent most of the next 4 days with us.
combo	Good communicator, a sense of humor, always on time, up for doing odd things (like getting up and dancing at the Gorilla Guardians show with their dancers, along with my husband).
combo	He also went out of his way the first day because one of our group was looking for Pepto-Bismol and another was looking for hearing aid batteries.
combo	Vincent took us to 3 pharmacies in Kigali before we gave up on those items.
combo	Both Vincent and Bonita went out of our way for us all."
combo	"Most amazing trip!!!
combo	we were 8 days in Uganda.. Haruna our driver and guide Plus Bonita, are the best to arrange a trip for you in east africa... 300% recomended!!
combo	was everything excellent, flexible and welcome.. this is by far the agency you have to take.. an always ask for Haruna as Guide and Bonita to arrange the trip!"
combo	Very nice experience.
combo	Very well organized.
combo	Champanzee was really worth the trek !
combo	Vincent is the best driver of Rwanda !
combo	"If you are not sure whose services to use while in Rwanda, I highly recommend Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	Before my trip, I contacted several agencies, but Explore Rwanda Tours' prompt and polite answer(s) assured me that I would have a great and safe trip.
combo	And I did!
combo	They were flexible with my trip days and my requests.
combo	First, I booked them for 3 days, but then I extended the trip to 6 days.
combo	I kept adding more and more requests and they accommodated all.
combo	Bonita replied within minutes!
combo	Bosco - my driver and guide - was knowledgeable and flexible.
combo	I appreciated that he recommended and never instructed.
combo	He truly watched out for my interests.
combo	Because of work, I needed internet connection, and Bosco provided a router in the car while we were driving from one location to the next.
combo	As a solo female traveler, I felt safe under the care of Explore Rwanda Tours."
combo	"Excellent service!
combo	I sent my the number of days I had to spend in Rwanda and they made a complete package.
combo	Didn't have to think about anything, not even the Covid tests.
combo	Rwanda is a very expensive country (mainly because of all the permits), but payment in terms wasn't a problem.
combo	The accomodations are very good as well.
combo	Couldn't do King's Palace because of the cerfew and the big animals were very shy (or too lazy to show up) in Akagera, but can't blame anyone for that.
combo	Nice driver (Baptiste) and good care from Bonita who checks in regularly to ask if anything is okay.
combo	I can only recommend this!"
combo	"Fabulous 3 days in Rwanda.
combo	I got supported all the way by Bonita.
combo	she quickly answered my inquiry, provided me with various options, revised my travel plan and hotel selection.
combo	Kabiyza the driver and guide was friendly and helping us getting the most from our short trip.
combo	Seeing Gorilla in their natural habitat is just awesome.
combo	I can only recommend this amazing experience."
combo	"I had the most amazing 5 day trip in Uganda organized by the extremely helpful and efficient Bonita, and guided by the wonderful man, Haruna.
combo	As a solo female traveler, I was impressed by the quick response to all of my queries, and the extra effort both individuals took to ensure that my trip was well planned, comfortable, gave me a taste of the real Uganda and fun!
combo	The choice of lodges were simply breathtaking and exceeded my expectations.
combo	I highly recommend this company if you plan to explore Uganda.
combo	Both individuals made my trip an experience I will never forget!"
combo	"We went on a 2-day (overnight) trip to Nyungwe National Park, stopping at the King's Palace Museum, the Butare Museum and the Gisakura Tea Estate along the route there and back.
combo	Overall, we enjoyed the experience, and got a full itinerary of activities, with logistical matters (e.g.
combo	booking chimpanzee permits, entry fees, guides, meals, etc.
combo	handled efficiently by Explore RwandaTours.
combo	The process of providing the quote was expedient and Bonita was very communicative throughout.
combo	The driver was professional and polite.
combo	In terms of the itinerary, we had quite a number of activities packed into 2 days, with the majority being planned for the first day.
combo	Overall, I’d recommend Explore RwandaTours for a smooth and stress-free planning experience.
combo	In the future, we'd suggest the outings be equally spread over two days, as we fell short on time to fit them all in one day, and also since it turns out there's time to do so as long as the tour has a punctual start (unfortunately our pick up was a bit behind schedule on Day 1).
combo	This would have allowed our museum visits to be more leisurely.
combo	Would also recommend travelers make sure to do the Gisakura tea estate tour on a business day, so you can visit the factory, as we would have loved to see it and try some tea but it was closed for the holiday."
combo	"An excellent trip from end to end.
combo	The tour itself was fully exhilarating and enjoyable.
combo	Got to see as promised, Gorillas and family in their natural habitat.
combo	The agent who organised everything made it all very easy and our driver was an absolute gentleman who looked after us very well.
combo	Much better value than any other providers.
combo	I would 100% recommend.
combo	Thanks you very much Explore RwandaTours!
combo	We Had the best time"
combo	"My two friends and I visited Rwanda and it was quite an interesting trip...we had all the comfort we needed.
combo	The hotel rooms had a conducive environment and perfect services.
combo	We visited the national park and had a great time.
combo	I would definitely recommend anyone.
combo	Thanks to Bonita and Explore Rwanda Tours for arranging the details or our trip, and to the drivers and guide for their efforts."
combo	"I just finished a 5 day/4 night private Rwanda tour booked by Bonita from RwandaTours and operated by Nziza Safaris with Vincent as my guide.
combo	What a truly spectacular experience— one of the most memorable trips of my life.
combo	Initially, we had planned a 6 day/5 night safari, but flight delays meant we had to shorten by a day.
combo	This was no problem and they managed to accommodate everything by simply compressing the itinerary a bit.
combo	We saw Chimpanzees, Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, Baboons, and some of the most beautiful landscapes with fascinating people.
combo	I cannot recommend Rwanda and RwandaTours enough.
combo	They will be able to customize a great package for you and see all the highlights of Rwanda.
combo	I can’t wait to come back!
combo	Travelling in COVID is certainly daunting, but I would highly recommend Rwanda for travel ASAP— I have never felt safer from COVID.
combo	I visited at the start of September in the midst of heightened COVID precautions.
combo	Upon arrival in Rwanda, I quarantined at Des Milles Collines (a very nice hotel) for 24 hours and was tested for COVID in the hotel.
combo	I also needed a test pre-arrival which I was able to get in the Frankfurt Airport.
combo	The 24 hour quarantine was easy and seamless and they have a doctor come and test you in your room.
combo	You also need a test before departure, but the guide can easily coordinate this.
combo	Rwanda has handled COVID very well.
combo	Their case numbers are quite low and they have done over half a million tests.
combo	Pre-Covid, you may have needed to jostle for space in packed Gorilla treks of 8-10 people, my gorilla trek was only 3 people so there were plenty of opportunities for perfect photos and we were assigned a great group of gorillas.
combo	I was alone with the guide for the golden monkeys trek instead of in a full group.
combo	The Rwandan population is much more disciplined about wearing masks than Canada or the USA.
combo	In the national parks, everyone must wear a mask to prevent spreading infection to gorillas and everyone must be tested and pass a temperature screen.
combo	You don’t need to worry about social distancing at accommodations as most are quite empty (in Volcanoes park at Le Bambou, I was the only guest in a 24 cabin lodge).
combo	While certainly travel during COVID can be daunting, I believe now is the time to go!
combo	Moreover, these communities need our tourism dollars to survive and the lack of tourists is hurting them.
combo	Be safe and get tested before you visit and take good health insurance, but I would not hesitate to take the trip of a lifetime and visit Rwanda.
combo	This is a special country and tourists will certainly come back in droves in due course.
combo	However, I cannot think of a better time to experience it and see wildlife all alone while valuably supporting local communities and tourism who need our money more than ever."
combo	"A friend and I did a 6-day trip in Rwanda and we visited the Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu and the Nyungwe National Park.
combo	Explore Rwanda Tours was one of 6-7 operators that sent me a quote for this trip.
combo	We decided on this company because of the good communication we had with them, the good reviews on TA plus because of the price (only one operator was cheaper but I could not find any reviews about this operator).
combo	We enjoyed that trip and also the fact that Bonita checked every day via Whatsapp if everything is okay.
combo	When I visit Uganda and the DRC and the near future, I will definitely consider to book again via Explore Rwanda Tours."
combo	"My husband booked our Feb 2020 Three Night stay at the Kimbumba Tent Camp online, from our home in Kauai, Hawaii.
combo	Bonita did a great job of answering all of his questions (he's an Engineer... so you can be sure there were many).
combo	Erisa arrived (an hour early) with a freshly washed vehicle to pick us up at our hotel in Rwanda.
combo	A very safe driver who shared valuable information with us along the way to the DRC Border crossing.
combo	After our adventure in the Congo, Erisa delivered us to our hotel in Kabale, Uganda.
combo	Tressor (we called him Treasure before we knew how to spell his name) was our Tour Guide.
combo	Turns out that he truly is a Treasure.
combo	Extremely professional and capable, he's a real ""can do"" kind of guy.
combo	Someone we will be friends with forever!
combo	David assisted with the driving, shopping, and luggage.
combo	The Lodge is well designed with fire pits and a huge dining room serving Great food at every meal... but the best part was the luxury of finding HOT water bottles between the bed sheets on a cold night!
combo	Our Tent was spacious and comfortable.
combo	Augustine gave a fabulous briefing before (and de-briefing after) our Gorilla Trek, as well as a hike to the cave and a visit to a local church.
combo	I felt perfectly safe staying at the camp over night while my husband hiked to the Lava Lake with Tressor.
combo	There were so many additional friendly staff at the lodge...
combo	Thank you all!!!
combo	And special thanks to the Park Rangers for escorting us safely through DRC.
combo	PS.
combo	I bought a bag of the Coffee grown in DRC and it was GOOD!"
combo	"Excellent trip all around !!
combo	Gorillas in the morning mist, the comforts of Kimbumba Tent Camp at night and adventurous over night at Nyiragongo Volcano (don't under estimate the hike up and down the volcano though!!).
combo	Bonita, Tresor and Erisa from Explore Rwanda Tours had it all dialed in !!"
combo	"In Feb 2020, this company coordinated our (wife and I) DR Congo 3-day leg into/at/out of Virunga National Park as part of a 4 week adventure in East Africa.
combo	Our contact who is in Kigali was Bonita, and the company is apparently owned by a German fellow in Germany.
combo	I couldn't have asked for better communications in English, nor a more responsive and flexible person to work with.
combo	She was able to answer our questions and supply information I wouldn't have thought to ask as part of her forward approach to putting our trip together.
combo	All permits were included and our guide helped ease the need for an ""international"" yellow fever card rather than yellow fever proof of vaccination my wife had.
combo	Beware.
combo	We had to wire about 1/2 the cost of the trip in US $ to them, which was a bit of a fuss - but we got past that (correspondent bank issues).
combo	We took $ for the balance and handed that over to the driver when he picked us up in Volcanoes NP, Rwanda.
combo	He took us to the border at Goma, then handed us over to our Congolese driver and the guide.
combo	The ride into the lodge was an experience, accompanied by about 14 soldiers armed with AK47s.
combo	We stayed 2 nights at Mikeno Lodge, and couldn't have been more pleasantly surprised by the relaxed sophistication of this operation.
combo	We've been in several (lots) of ""jungle"" (tropical rain-forest, off grid) lodges in South America, Asia and Africa, and I'd have to say this was the most pleasant all-around experience we've had.
combo	Food, lodging, service - the whole ball of wax.
combo	Thanks to Bonita and Explore Rwanda Tours for arranging the details or our trip, and to the drivers and guide for their efforts."
combo	"We had an organized and amazing 4-day experience in Western Rwanda and Southwest Uganda.
combo	The main goal of the trip was to see gorillas in Bwindi Impenatrable National Park, in Uganda.
combo	The first morning, Elisa picked us up from our hotel in Kigali, and drove us all day to Uganda, and then further to the park.
combo	He helped us find places to take photos along the way, to get food, and to find an ATM for money whenever we needed.
combo	In the park as we drove, we got to see monkeys, beautiful scenery, and a taste for how the local communities work the hillsides.
combo	The gorilla trek itself was perfect.
combo	We saw them in Uganda to keep our budget down, but in the end, the rangers and area of Bwindi gave us a great memory.
combo	Didn't take too long to find the gorillas, and we got so close!
combo	After the gorilla trek, we were sweaty and tired, but Elisa convinced us to see the local community walk and take a short tour of the local hospital.
combo	Both extremely eye-opening.
combo	That, with two-nights a the luxury lodge, Silverback Lodge, we took another day long drive to our next stop.
combo	We headed out back to Rwanda, and stayed on the edge of Lake Kivu, to see a nice little coast line in the middle of east africa.
combo	Was great weather, and very relaxing for a short stay.
combo	Would have stayed a second night to reduce all the driving we did!
combo	Finally, we headed back from Lake Kivu to Kigali to fly out and end our trip.
combo	Each time, Elisa would pick us up whenever we wanted to work our schedule.
combo	He would help line up tours, and translate for us if needed.
combo	He always helped answer our questions about the countries and help with our experience.
combo	Bonita was so nice to work with over email.
combo	I had her answer a whole slew of questions, and run maybe 10 different schedule options for me with different prices until we got exactly what I wanted.
combo	Make the planning part of the trip very easy.
combo	I definitely appreciated this.
combo	If I had to change anything, I would try to reduce the average driving time per day, but that was my fault as I wanted to cram as much in as possible into a short trip.
combo	Would definitely recommend Explore Rwanda Tours to my friends and family."
combo	"We had an excellent organized trip, thank you very much Bonita.
combo	Stephen, our guide in Uganda has been one of the best with excellent Knowledge of the Fauna and Flora in all visited parks.
combo	The choice of lodges couldn't be better.
combo	For any further trip in an offered country by Rwanda Explore Tours we have found our operator yet."
combo	"The trip was very well organized.
combo	Elisa, the driver, was really nice and provided interesting facts about Ruanda and DRC.
combo	Furthermore, he was very flexible picking me up when my travel schedule changed.
combo	Visiting the gorillas was amazing.
combo	I had the opportunity to spend some time with them, get more insight about their lives, and I had a guide who was also a very talented photographer.
combo	All in all a carefree and interesting trip.
combo	Thank you."
combo	"We visited the Gorillas staying at Kibumba lodge and also climbed the volcano.
combo	The experience was so intense and beautiful in ALL the ways.
combo	Explore rwanda tours has facilitated everything.
combo	We never had an unsafe feeling and would recommend everyone.
combo	Bear in mind that climbing the volcano requires a good general physical condition :) but it is SO worth the climb.
combo	For people who visit through Kigali and go straight to Virunga in Congo and dont plan to stay longer then 3 days in Rwanda I would advise to take a ""transit"" visa which is cheaper than the 30 days normal tourist visa.
combo	Thanks a lot Rwandatours.
combo	Jan"
combo	"On a whim I booked them after searching the internet and I have to say I had a great time.
combo	This was low drama and easy.
combo	Elisa, our driver, was perfect: informative when appropriate, quiet also.
combo	:) we saw great parts of Kigali, had two fun drives, and the gorilla trek was amazing!!!
combo	And way less than other tour services.
combo	The hotel they put us up in was nice.
combo	It was not five star but it was modern, safe, with a staff so friendly and hospitable.
combo	The food was simple and authentic.
combo	Bonita who booked the trip responded immediately to WhatsApp and was always available.
combo	Seeing the gorillas was a dream come true.
combo	Rwanda Is clean, and it’s people happy and welcome.
combo	Really really nice."
combo	"From the start Bonita was extremely responsive and quick to lay me up a tailored and detailed itinerary for exactly what I wanted to experience, within my budget.
combo	We did Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Park transferring from Kigali.
combo	Our driver Rauben was an hour early to pick us up and was exceptional and very informative the entire time we were with him, both on nature, culture and local history which really gave us a fuller understanding of where we were from the start.
combo	The gorilla tracking in Bwindi was highly organised and extremely safe and fruitful.
combo	We spent about an hour within a few meters of a Silverback, but felt entirely safe with the experienced informative guides.
combo	We stayed at Buhoma Haven Lodge, the ""mid range accoms"" set in the mountains with a perfect view every morning, perfect service and great food.
combo	Our driver Rauben was in call at all times if we wanted to do anything outside the itinerary during our time there and got us back to Kigali very satisfied.
combo	Pretty ideal experience."
combo	Even though booked last minute the company was very helpful in organising an individual tour.
combo	The guide was very kind and knowledgable about Rwandan history and the country.
combo	I can only recommend to book a tour with them.
combo	"I used Explore Rwanda Tours for transportation and visa assitance from Kigali to Goma, DRC including an overnight volcano trip.
combo	The upfront administration and logistics leading into the trip were professional and flawless.
combo	The trip itself was similarly thoroughly planned and executed.
combo	I would definitely recommend the company and would certainly use them again myself."
combo	"The travel agent that helped us plan our trip to Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya was Bonita.
combo	She was very attentive, with very prompt and precise responses.
combo	She even inquired multiple times during the trip on how we were doing, and she was always helpful and open to rearranging our itinerary based on things we saw that could be interesting.
combo	Her plan included in Uganda, the Kibale National Park for Chimpanzees, the Queen Elizabeth Park for other wildlife; in Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park for Gorillas, Kigali for the genocide Memorial Museum and others; and in Kenya, the Masai Mara for big cats, giraffes, elephants, hippos, etc.
combo	Our drivers/guides were great.
combo	For Uganda and Rwanda, Haruna was our driver.
combo	He was was extremely patient, attentive and friendly.
combo	He was always happy to stop on the picturesque roads to take pictures.
combo	He also took us to the market in Kigali and was always attentive of our security, even walking with us through the market, or take us to stores, restaurants, or cultural centers.
combo	He was great!
combo	Omondi also did a great job in Kenya for a Masai Mara safari.
combo	He paired up with a Masai person, who helped us find lions and other animals during the game drives.
combo	Event though, we were not supposed to do a game drive on the arrival day to the camp, Omondi suggested to do a game drive in the afternoon, and we saw a lot of wildlife on the first day.
combo	This helped a lot because the following days, animals dispersed due to rain; we still saw other animals with the help of our Masai friend.
combo	Omondi also had great driving skills!
combo	Overall, it was a great eye opening experience, and Bonita, Haruna and Omondi did a great job in showing us around!"
combo	"I just returned from this incredible experience of visiting Kigali, Volcano National Park for Mountain Gorilla Trekking x 2 and Golden Monkeys x 1 I used Explore Rwanda Tours primarily as my transportation source as I booked my own hotels (Kigali Serena Hotel and One and Only Gorilla Nest) and Trekking permits on my own.
combo	So my review is focused only on that aspect.
combo	Sulaiman was my driver for my 5 days in Rwanda and during that time was my right hand man.
combo	He not only drove me to all of my destinations on time but provided me with a wealth of information about the people of Rwanda and the important local sites to visit.
combo	From the time he picked me up at the airport to the time he dropped me off 4 days later we squeezed in a whole bunch of activities all at his suggestion.
combo	It was great.
combo	I highly recommend Explore Rwanda Tours and in particular Sulaiman as a valuable resource should you be going to that region.
combo	The only thing I would recommend to the company is to update their vehicles.
combo	Best trip I ever took."
combo	"We have a great travel around Rwanda with Rauben who took us from the airport and we went with a great drive from the border of Rwanda to Tanzania to visit Akagera National Park to the border between Rwanda and RDC and Uganda to visit Kivu and Volcanos national park with an stop in Kigali Memorial of Genocide.
combo	The times where very well plan by Bonita and her team as well as the hotels, also the drive and responsibility of Rauben it was so good and safe I suggest Rauben to request him as your lead driver.
combo	Our overall was great in particular since we where able to see the landscape and the life of rural communities, to taste new fruits as ""tomato fruit"" and to share with the local communities and of course to be with the Gorillas and other animals in the safari."
combo	"Just came back from a tour to Virunga Nationalpark in DRC and Volcanoes-Park in Rwanda planned and executed by „Explore RwandaTours“.
combo	Bonita and her Team at the office, our guides Haruna (in Rwanda) and Tresor (DRC) did an incredible job.
combo	Everything went extremely well, also the teams flexibility to our wishes and needs (flight was cancelled, so we were 1 day late and everything had to be adjusted) was enormous.
combo	Thank you so much!
combo	Would choose Explore RwandaTours next time again and can highly recommend them!"
combo	"I wanted to visit Africa for a long time, after some research I decided to start with Rwanda to see gorillas and chimpanzees, hike a volcano and just see the country in general.
combo	Bonita was a really fast and helpful to respond after I described to her what I wanted to do and sent me some suggested tours.
combo	In the end I decided to go to Bwindi (Uganda) for Gorilla trekking and do the rest in Rwanda.
combo	As discussed I got picked up at Kigali airport by the first hotel and then met my driver Elisa the next morning.
combo	Big thanks to him for being a great driver and very knowledgeable during the tour!
combo	For sure the highlight was Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi.
combo	But also hiking Mount Bisoke in volcano national park was great, despite all the mud.
combo	Also the elevation wasn't an issue.
combo	Lake Kivu is a really beautiful place and probably more so if you're there during the dry season.
combo	The last major stop was Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzee trekking and doing the canopy walk.
combo	Of the three forests (Bwindi, Volcano National Park, Nyungwe) I have to say that this one was my favorite one, such a beautiful place!
combo	Regarding accommodations, I decided for the budget version.
combo	So most was as expected, very simple but fine.
combo	Highlights were the Ichumbi gorilla lodge in Bwindi and Le Palme Beach Resort at lake Kivu, which I don't consider budget accommodations.
combo	I decided to pay the first half using Pesapal and the second half to pay in cash.
combo	No issues with both options.
combo	Maybe the one negative thing was, that everything was fairly rushed.
combo	In hindsight, one more day/night around Bwindi would have been great and also at Nyungwe, maybe doing there one of the longer hikes through the forest.
combo	Not sure if I would have decided to choose it, but I would have really appreciated suggestions to spent more time at certain locations, so that not everything feels so rushed."
combo	"My wife had a burning desire to visit Uganda and Rwanda for our honeymoon- as a regular in Africa they were some of the few places she hadn't seen.
combo	I was rather less keen (this would be my first trip to the Continent) but rapidly realised my mistake in arriving at Entebbe.
combo	Our trip was magical - very comfortable hotels, an impeccably thought out itinerary, excellent food everywhere and lovely scenery and activities.
combo	Haruna and Bonita took huge care to make sure things worked out well and also amended our plans as the trip went along to ensure we didn't have unbearably long drives or late arrivals at hotels.
combo	Haruna was an excellent guide as well - we really enjoyed his company (thank you!
combo	Uganda is one of the prettiest places I have ever visited - every corner another wow view.
combo	All in all highly recommended!"
combo	"Our 10 day honeymoon around uganda and Rwanda with Haruna was absolutely fantastic - a once in a lifetime trip.
combo	All was organised beautifully, and there was great flexibility when plans Needed to be changed last minute.
combo	Am already recommending friends to visit these beautiful countries, which exceeded all expectations and would without doubt say to make the trip with both Haruna and Bonita."
combo	"My wife and I booked a two day tour from Kigali and to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to go gorilla trekking.
combo	The company was very easy to coordinate the logistics and payment with and were on time when picking us up.
combo	Our guide, Haruna, was amazing.
combo	Very friendly and knowledgeable about Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	We felt very safe and comfortable over the long journeys, not to mention they helped coordinate the right gorilla trek and we had that amazing experience.
combo	There is no reason to look to any other touring company when searching for these experiences, we highly recommend.
combo	-- Mike, USA"
combo	2 night experience.
combo	Started with Genocide memorial in Kigali before heading out around noon.. 4 hour ride with excellent lunch stop.
combo	Lodge was excellent.
combo	Added Batwa experience including visit to school and orphanage.
combo	Very worthwhile.
combo	"This Trek in Virunga Park in the DRC was an incredible experience extremely well organized by Bonita and the members of her staff.
combo	The guides, drivers and rangers made it very easy to travel safely between Rwanda and the DRC and the accommodations in Kibumba tented camp were very good, including a hot water bottle bed warmer in the beds every evening.
combo	Bonita, Abdullah, Tresor, Jean Didier and Bizi, you made what I like to call the difference that makes the difference in this adventure.
combo	Kudos to all."
combo	"We spent 6 days on a safari through Rwanda with our guide Elisa.
combo	During those six days we visited Akagera National Park, Lake Kivu and Nyungwe National Park, as we had already been to Volcanoes National Park a few weeks before.
combo	We spent the first three days in Akagera.
combo	The company chose a great hotel (Akagera Game Lodge).
combo	The game drives were impressive, especially when the weather was good.
combo	Our car had a pop-up roof which is great for spotting and photographing animals.
combo	On the third day we transferred to Lake Kivu.
combo	The lake is impressive, but as our only activity there was a short boat ride and the transfer takes very long, that's the part I would skip the next time.
combo	Generally, you have to be aware of the fact that transfers in Rwanda take extremely long because the country is mountainous.
combo	We spent the last days in Nyungwe National Park where we went chimpanzee-trekking and visited the canopy walk.
combo	Both activities are recommendable.
combo	All in all, I can recommend booking a trip with Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	Their choice of hotels is good and our guide was really nice and friendly.
combo	However, I would recommend skipping the stay at Lake Kivu if you are not visiting Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe (then it would just be a stop on the way).
combo	If you have more time, I'd recommend visiting Uganda too."
combo	"I didn’t the tour with the gorilas it was a great experience, all the guides, all the drivers and all the rangers, friendly, polite and always asking if I was ok.
combo	So I recommend !"
combo	"My friend and I just finished the very well organised explore Rwanda tour.
combo	We loved the itinerary and stayed in absolutely incredible accommodation.
combo	The tour included hikes with the amazing mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
combo	We saw beautiful parts of Uganda including murchinson falls and crater lakes.
combo	For game drives the van turns into a safari vehicle and we were lucky to see many animals including the rare tree lions.
combo	Luckily, our driver Elisa was just as keen as we were to see the animals.
combo	We explored the smaller towns that would be difficult to drive yourself around and crossed the border to Rwanda for the end of the tour.
combo	Expect some long driving days and bumpy roads but the drives are quite scenic.
combo	Each night we stayed in lovely lodges with fantastic service and delicious three course meals.
combo	Definitely would recommend this trip, we were very impressed and loved our 9 days!"
combo	"We did a 10 day tour through Rwanda and Uganda for our honeymoon through Explore Rwanda tours.
combo	Firstly the organisation of the trip through Bonita was great.
combo	She is quick to respond to emails and happily obliged to changes.
combo	She also worked hard to make the itinerary that I wanted work in the amount of days we had available.
combo	Our drive and guide, Haruna was by far the best guide we have ever had (and we have had many)!
combo	He was very flexible and helpful but also left us to our own devices when able.
combo	He is a friendly guide with so much knowledge on both Rwanda, Uganda, safari animals and anything else you might ask him.
combo	He was also very keen to make sure our trip was as special as possible.
combo	Overall a chilled yet amazing guide and I would recommend travelling with him to anyone.
combo	For our trip, we visited Kigali, trekked Mt Bisoke in Rwanda then gorilla trekking, Murchison Falls and NP then white water rafting on the Nile in Uganda.
combo	I suggest in this short a trip it is too far to drive (2 days) for Murchison Falls but this was my suggestion not the company's."
combo	"Explore Rwanda Tours was the only tour company, offering two days weekend tour for Gorilla Tracking.
combo	It was well thought and organized.
combo	We started in Kigali with a short visit at the local market and then I had the special wish to see the Rwandan Art Museum- very recommended!
combo	From there; Issa - the excellent driver, drove me safe to the Bwindi National Park in Uganda.
combo	As we understood each other perfectely, he and his colleague explained a lot about the country, the agriculture etc.
combo	We exchanged our experiences and compared life as I know it from Zambia and Namibia.
combo	Safely arrived in Bwindi, we stayed in a very nice lodge called Silverback Lodge.
combo	The next morning the Gorrilla Tracking tour started with local rangers from the Bwindi village.
combo	It was an impressing and touching experience.
combo	After this tour at the rain forest, my disagreement increased with the arrogant and selfish country leaders, who are destroying the nature world wide.
combo	We have to thank each staff member of the Bwindi NP, who are ensuring, that the Gorillas, who are sharing 96% of our DNA and might are the core stone of all humans, will hopefully stay and live there for the next 100 years.
combo	After the Gorilla Tracking tour, Issa and his colleague were waiting for me.
combo	We had a good drive back to Kigali.
combo	I learned a lot during the weekend!
combo	I am very much recommending Explore Rwanda Tours.
combo	You can contact Bonita, who is an excellent advisor for the tour.
combo	And with Issa as driver, you will be safe, for sure."
combo	"We travelled in Uganda and Rwanda for 10 days in the begining of September 2019.
combo	We first received an offer from Bonita when i wrote in Virunga website asking for quatation for DCR.
combo	Then we included in our program Rwanda also.
combo	after everything was finalized we heard that there is Ebola in places we planed to visit in Congo and decided not to go there this time.
combo	Bonita changed the iteniary to include Uganda instead and was open to all the requests i have asked.
combo	The final result was what i asked and even cheaper than the first one.
combo	Bonita is something speacial.
combo	you get her feedback minutes after you send her email or whatsup or messanger and she was always there for us, thinking about all the small details and trying to make everything in order for us to be happy.
combo	During the tour she was there all the time trying to make sure that everything is going well.
combo	And there was Elisa Kyagaba, our guide and driver.
combo	When i red tripadviser before our departure i saw comments about Elisa and asked Bonita to send him with us.
combo	And we were not disappointed - Elisa is exellent driver and guide and he did his utmost in order for us to fullfil our programs in full.
combo	He know both countries very well from all aspects - geographically , historically and the rest .
combo	We managed to see all the planned atractions even if it meant to arrive late in the Lodge or to wake up at 4AM ‬for the Chimps trekking.
combo	So i highly recommend Explore Rwanda Tours in general and Bonita and Elisa in special.
combo	Thank you both"
combo	"My experience with Explore Rwanda was flawless from beginning to end.
combo	Bonita was incredibly efficient, accommodating and patient, answering all of my mindless questions from the get-go.
combo	She truly set my mind at ease.
combo	My driver Haruna really set the tone of the trip, however.
combo	I felt like I was travelling with a friend; he took me under my wing and gave me a taste of Rwandan/Ugandan hospitality.
combo	I spent two days between the two countries, visiting the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi and the drive there and back, instead of a chore, became part of the exciting journey.
combo	I couldn't recommend Explore Rwanda Tours highly enough; I certainly won't be using anyone else when I return (someday)!!!"
combo	"From the beginning by connecting via email all the way to getting dropped off at our onward destination, our experience with Explore Rwanda Tours was great.
combo	It was exceptionally well arranged, with a wonderful guide Stephen and the most immaculately beautiful lodge with extraordinary staff (Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge).
combo	Communication from the beginning was excellent, payment was easy, and our guide was so interested in wildlife and was willing to share a lot of great Ugandan insights with us.
combo	And can I mention again how great the lodge was?!
combo	We stopped at excellent restaurants and were able to pop into the Dian Fossey Center quickly, which was a bonus.
combo	My only suggestion for improvement was our vehicle (a 7-person Toyota van), which had seen a lot of tours in its day.
combo	Wasn't a huge deal for us though.
combo	Meals were excellent and we absolutely loved the gorilla trek.
combo	I know it costs a pretty penny to go trekking, but wow, that is an experience we will never forget.
combo	Would do it again without question, and would call Explore Rwanda Tours again to make it happen!"
combo	"We made a nine-day trip and it was better than we had expected (in spite of my problems with a knee).
combo	The communication with the agency was fast and efficient and we got what we wanted.
combo	The driver Haruna was very reliable and helpful, able to respond to all possible unexpected situation that occurred and providing us with everything we could need so we could enjoy our trip to Rwanda to the maximum.
combo	We thank everybody a lot."
combo	"I wanted to say that Explore Rwanda Tours was the greatest tour operator i could find.
combo	I spent 2 weeks between Rwanda and Congo and was not disappointed at all.
combo	My guide Tom in Rwanda took such good care of me and showed me some amazing museums and villages.
combo	He got me across the border to Congo in Goma to meet with Rock, my guide in Virunga Congo.
combo	Rock was just a gem!
combo	I was so happy to meet him and spend quite a bit of time with him touring Virunga, sitting with the gorillas, and hiking the volcano.
combo	It was an amazing experience for me and one i will never forget.
combo	I was a solo traveler looking for adventure and it was delivered.
combo	I ended my trip in Bukavo with Safari another guide and visited lowland gorillas.
combo	I am just floored at the amazing experience and the attention to detail and communication by Bonita.
combo	I am already planning to be back within the year.
combo	Thank you all for this experience.
combo	Sonya (nyc).. xo"
combo	"In June I experienced my first trip to Rwanda and Uganda.
combo	While most people plan these kind of trips well in advance, I began planning the trip less than 2 months ahead of time.
combo	I read several reviews and sent out several emails to different gorilla trekking operators.
combo	I ended up selecting Explore Rwanda tours and it was great!
combo	Bonita made several adjustments to the itinerary to get exactly what we were looking for.
combo	I was trying to see as much as possible in a 4-5 day itinerary as it wasn’t much more than the 3 day gorilla trekking tour.
combo	I wanted budget places, but not tents and hot water was a must.
combo	She answered emails as well as texts and even phone calls via WhatsApp.
combo	Once we arrived in Kigali, our driver and guide, Elisa, was there even before the time arranged for pickup.
combo	He pointed out the sights as we went drove and shared information on the country.
combo	He spoke English very well.
combo	He made sure our belongings were always safe when we were in the towns.
combo	When we got into the parks, he was as always on the lookout for the animals.
combo	The gorilla trekking is done with the Uganda wildlife association, but he was there where we came out, so we were able to go early to the next park.
combo	The gorilla trekking was amazing.
combo	He was careful with driving on the unpaved roads.
combo	He would talk to other drivers to see if they had spotted anything we hadn’t seen.
combo	He was patient even during my shopping experience (it takes me a while to make up my mind) and if the shopkeepers were too aggressive, he would talk to them to give us some space.
combo	The van we had was a pop top, and we could look as long or as short as we wanted.
combo	We saw all of the animals in the parks including 2 lions and got fairly close to forest elephants and a group of giraffes.
combo	Two of the three lodges had absolutely gorgeous views and all had good food and service.
combo	We really felt like a VIP.
combo	The company also operates in Uganda under Achieve Global Safaris.
combo	When we arrived in Kampala, I had the privilege of meeting Bonita and the owner or manager in person at the office.
combo	She for feedback on the lodges.
combo	I will have separate reviews for each of them).
combo	I would definitely use them again for gorilla trekking and safari in Eastern Africa."
combo	"I intended to go this trip one year ago.
combo	Finally I go there!
combo	In 13days, I took the Nyiragongo volcano hiking tour, we are really lucky, we saw the really really clear lava lake without any fog!!!
combo	What ‘s more we met the eruption of the volume around lava lake.
combo	I did three times gorilla trekking in Virunga NP( D.R.
combo	Congo), Bwindi NP( Uganda) and Volcanoes NP ( Rwanda); also I did one time golden monkey trekking and chimpanzee trekking.
combo	Also, I did the culture and natural trekking in Nyungwe.
combo	About the Gorilla trekking, absolutely as you headed about that it is really expensive,( especially in Ruanda) but everything is totally worth!
combo	Also, three times is not enough I think, because the tour is really amazing!
combo	Also, about Congo, you may hear lots of bed things about it, but they are not true!
combo	Congo is one of the best places that I have been."
combo	Bonita organized the Mikeno Mist 5 days trip to Virunga for me.
combo	I'm more then welcome to recommend Explore Rwanda to everyone.
combo	The whole team with Bonita and the guides Abdullah and Tresor did a great job.
combo	Thank you to be able to visit the Gorillas and the Nyiragongo vulcano in DRC.
combo	I always felt save during that trip!
combo	"I had just a 4 days off for my Eid holiday, so I contacted Bonita at Explore Rwanda Tours at the last minute to do the Eastern Lowland Gorilla Tracking Experience.
combo	My guide, Haruna, was there waiting for me at the airport.
combo	It was kind of late in the day when I arrived, but we had some time to stop at the Genocide Memorial in Kigali before heading off to Serena Hotel for the night.
combo	The hotel is fabulous and the buffet was delicious.
combo	In the morning we set off to the Congo border.
combo	The drive was beautiful as we headed to Bukavu, passing through the Nyungwe Forest where we spied loads of Angolan Colobus monkeys.
combo	Haruna was a great driver and I felt very safe as we travelled along the winding roads of the forest in the rain.
combo	We stopped for a nice lunch and a short rest along the way.
combo	At the Rwanda/Congo border, another very professional guide met me and took me to my hotel on the other side.
combo	In the morning, we headed off to Kahuzi-Biega National Park for the Eastern Lowland Gorillas.
combo	There were only 3 of us on this trek.
combo	We had a very thorough briefing by the park rangers and learned about the gorillas we would see.
combo	It only took us about one hour to reach them, and we got a full hour to observe and photograph them.
combo	Our guides and the staff at Kahuzi-Biega National Park were exceptional, and I would have loved to spend more time there.
combo	The next day, I met back up with Haruna, and we headed back to Kigali.
combo	We stopped at another very sobering genocide memorial and had time to stop at the palace.
combo	I was a little bit concerned because my flight wasn't until almost 2am, and we were due to arrive in Kigali by 7pm.
combo	I was soooo happy Haruna didn't just dump me off at the airport.
combo	Instead we had a lovely dinner together, and had a nice chat before going to the airport in time for my flight.
combo	I really enjoyed my time in Rwanda and the DRC.
combo	The people were super friendly and they have very good infrastructure in Rwanda.
combo	Bonita did a great job arranging everything for me at such such notice, and Haruna was a great companion!
combo	I highly recommend him as a guide, and hope to see him again in the future!"
combo	"Bonita did an excellent job arranging for my driver, driver, to pick me up in Kigali and facilitating my transportation to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda to see the gorillas.
combo	The day after I had the chance to meet the gorillas and the famous Silverback and my dream came true.
combo	Haruna, ma guide and driver, was amazing of flexibility and managed to adapt the trip to my expectation and my strict timing.
combo	He gave to my trip a very positive energy and gave me great information and advice.
combo	The second day, I had the chance to do a boat trip on the Lake Kivu and to see on my way back to the airport the Presidential Palace and Museum in Kigali.
combo	Thanks to Haruna, all of that has been possible in 2 days.
combo	All our accommodations were very comfortable !
combo	The trip has definitely exceeded my expectations.
combo	I absolutely recommend Explore RwandaTours to everyone."
combo	"I organized with Explore Rwanda Tours an amazing tour to explore the beautiful Rwanda.
combo	Bonita offered me a great support to organize a 5-day-program with everything I could wish, answering promptly to all my emails: thank you so much!
combo	The accomodations chosen were amazing.
combo	The driver, Erisa, did a wonderful job: he is not only a careful driver, but a very good guide too and a very kind person and he answered all my questions: I absolutely recommend him!
combo	Everything was even better then expected: thank you so much :) Just one issue, actually an important one: it is not possible to pay by credit card on the spot.
combo	I was in Rwanda since one month when I made the tour and it is quite an expensive country, so as you can imagine a 5-day-tour could be expensive and it is not easy to have cash such a sum or to withdraw it (due to limits), so I was quite worried.
combo	They allowed me to pay the balance online via pesapal; the surcharge considerable increased the price.
combo	This is a suggestion: it would be really helpful (and necessary, I would say) to allow people to pay on the spot by credit card.
combo	Thank you so much for this great experience, Elisa"
combo	"We had such an amazing time in Rwanda, one of the most beautiful countries we have ever been to.
combo	We did just over a week with Jean Marie as our guide.
combo	Everything was well planned out and executed and we were at ease and stress free the entire time, free to enjoy our activities knowing everything was being taken care of in the background.
combo	We visited Akagera, Volcanoes, and Nyungwe, each so beautiful in its own way.
combo	Jean Marie gave us such a great background on the country, its people, nature- and our 101 questions everyday.
combo	I cant say enough about how great the trip was, and I think in large part it was due to this wonderful tour company and our excellent guide."
combo	"I cannot recommend this company highly enough!
combo	This is my second trip with A Step Into Nature Tours and they always deliver.
combo	My most recent trip was a one day gorilla trek experience which was incredibly well organized.
combo	Ms. Lilian was especially helpful when it came to navigating COVID-19 restrictions on this trip.
combo	She answered my numerous questions, and was very responsive.
combo	Our tour guides/drivers (Tito and Ciprian) have been outstanding, friendly, and very helpful every time.
combo	Next time I am back in Kigali and have the opportunity for tourism, I will definitely be back with A Step Into Nature!"
combo	"My colleagues and I come to Kigali often for work.
combo	We always use Lilianne and this company almost every time.
combo	They go above and beyond and tailor the experience to however budget or luxury you want it to be.
combo	They are always kind, flexible and make every experience truly special.
combo	Over the last three years have done: chimpanzee trekking/ Nyungwe, twin Lakes, Akagera national Park and most recently the incredible gorilla trekking experience.
combo	This is once in a lifetime experience and truly incredible.
combo	The drivers are also always wonderful, conversational and helpful!
combo	I cannot recommend this company enough!
combo	Liliane especially is the best!"
combo	"It was around 3.5-4 hours each way to Huye District where the coffee plantation was, but the drive pleasant.
combo	I enjoyed seeing the countryside, the towns, the schoolchildren walking by the road, the vistas, the farms.
combo	Very peaceful and lots to look at.
combo	Once we arrived at the plantation, I met with the owner and chatted a bit, then he introduced me to Eric, who would be my guide.
combo	Eric gave me a great summary of our stops on the tour, and then we departed, along with his sister Olive, out onto the road and then up the hill to where the coffee grows.
combo	It was about a half hour hike before the tour itself began.
combo	For me and anyone else not exactly in shape, it might be strenuous.
combo	The tour itself was extremely informative and thorough, covering everything from the history of coffee to the botanical side of it to step by step explanations of each part of the agricultural process.
combo	We would hike, then stop at designated points where Eric and Olive would launch into well prepared explanations of the harvesting process, fertilization, preventing pests, etc.. At the top of the hill, a fire was already prepared and waiting for us to roast the dried beans Eric and Olive had brought along.
combo	They had me help roast the beans over the fire, then I watched them grind it with a mortar and pestle.
combo	Once it was brewed, I got to taste the freshest coffee I've ever had!
combo	It was wonderful!
combo	There were a couple other stops, where we saw the place where the farmers washed and dried the beans, and some various other machinery involved in the process.
combo	Along the way, we walked through the farming village around the plantation, which was its own novel experience.
combo	So peaceful.
combo	Eric and Olive were GREAT guides!
combo	So enthusiastic and so informed!
combo	They also have a habit of spontaneously breaking out into song and dance (totally serious, this happened like 3-4 times lol).
combo	The only negative to this tour is that it's so far from Kigali, but it's a great way to see the country if you don't mind the drive!"
combo	"Rwanda turned out to be the highlight of my 4.5 month trip through western and eastern Europe.
combo	I was traveling from Tbilisi Georgia to Morocco and picked Rwanda as a place to stop and take a 10 day break.
combo	I had no plans other than to just hang out.
combo	I had no idea Rwanda offered gorilla treking tours until after I arrived and looked for things to do.
combo	After looking at several tour company offerings I liked the primate tour that A Step Into Nature offered the best.
combo	I worked with Lillian.
combo	She was very nice and went out of her way to help me.
combo	I was in between their regularly scheduled tours so they set me up with my own private tour.
combo	I was able to negotiate a price that we were both happy with.
combo	I aske her where I could grab lunch.
combo	She walked me to a place a few doors down.
combo	It was a cafeteria type of place.
combo	She walked me down the line and explained what each food was.
combo	So nice of her.
combo	Lillian and Abbey took me on the tour.
combo	It took a day or so to get to the gorillas.
combo	I was handed off to a group of other tourists and several guides.
combo	They walked us up a hill, into the jungle where we were handed off to another group of guides.
combo	These men would take us to the gorillas.
combo	My god, it did not disappoint.
combo	We saw several gorillas and got very close to them.
combo	One large male gorilla walked right towards me.
combo	I was sitting on the ground and avoided eye contact.
combo	He continued pass me.
combo	I could not have asked for a better experience.
combo	One of the highlights of my life.
combo	Lillian asked me if I liked to go camping and I said yes.
combo	A day later we drove to a very large lake.
combo	We took a small boat, piloted by two young men and Lillian and a girlfriend of her's came along.
combo	I had no idea what to expect.
combo	We pulled ashore at an island.
combo	No camp sites, no running water and no toilets.
combo	We pitched 3 tents, I had my own.
combo	That night I sat arond the fire with the 2 men and we shared a bottle of hooch I had brought.
combo	We talked and I felt like I got close to them.
combo	In the morning we packed up camp and we stopped at another island where a monkey came down to the boat and we gave him bananas.
combo	Then off we went to another island.
combo	I should point out there were no jet skis or speed boats in this huge lake.
combo	Very few boats in fact.
combo	And no ariplanes flew overhead.
combo	It was wonderful, beautiful and quiet.
combo	Absolutely stunning.
combo	The second island was called Bat Island.
combo	As we walked through a grove of short trees I heard chirping.
combo	Hanging from all the trees where hundreds of bats.
combo	They were disturbed by us and many took to the air.
combo	That camping trip was only 1 night, but I loved it.
combo	It was another highlight for me.
combo	I love to tell people about it.
combo	You can tell from this long review that I loved this tour.
combo	I was well taken care of by Lillian and Abbey.
combo	I highly recommend them.
combo	I didn't even mention how we stopped along the road to get some skewers of barbecued goat.
combo	And how a bird came swooping down from behind me and grabbed the goat out of my hand.
combo	What a smart bird.
combo	I loved this tour.
combo	As you can tell I love reliving it.
combo	peace out, Greg S. from Los Angeles, CA I took this trip in August.
combo	2018."
combo	"We were impressed by the level of service delivery by A step into Nature Tours .
combo	From the first email to Lillian until our last day in Rwanda with Tito as our driver to Kibuye and Nyungwe.He was friendly , professional and informed .
combo	Well done Tito and ASIN Team"
combo	"We can highly recommend traveling Uganda and Rwanda with A Step Into Nature.
combo	Everything worked smoothly and we had lovely guides both for the gorilla trekking and the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	Lilian was always quick to reply, super helpful and flexibel when it came to finding the best options for us."
combo	"Having limited time in Rwanda, I wanted to find a reliable, experienced compnay that could maximise a chance for a 1-day visit to Akagera National Park from Kigali.
combo	I could not have found better than A Step Into Nature Tours.
combo	My driver Tito arrived right on time at my guest house, and having previously worked in the Park himself, was the perfect guide, being very knowledgable about where to find and identify animals.
combo	The tour bus was very comfortable, and A Step Into Nature Tours even honoured to take me alone on the tour, when a group of others who had booked for the journey cancelled at very short notice.
combo	I can thoroughly recommend, and if returning to Rwanda, will hope to book on to another A Step Into Nature Tours adventure."
combo	"We had to the must wonderful experience with our guide and driver, Jean de Dieu Nshuti, who we hired through A Step into Nature Tours, in our one day tour of Akagera National Park.
combo	He was so knowledgeable, professional, friendly and a good laugh (not to mention a brilliant photographer).
combo	He was very good at spotting various species from distances while navigating his way through the Park, whereas the jeep was very comfortable and its open roof and large windows ideal for game drive.
combo	Generally, a visit to Akagera should be a highlight for anyone visiting Rwanda, with its many different species roaming, swimming and flying freely.
combo	A day trip from Kigali is very much feasible with an early morning start, as it is under a three hours drive away.
combo	Some of the species are more active during the night hours, but there is still plenty to see during the day time."
combo	"After several hours of searching online, my girlfriend and I decided to book a one-day trip to Akagera National Park with A Step Into Nature.
combo	The main deciding factor was reading all the reviews here on TripAdvisor.
combo	And although the reviews set a high expectation, A Step Into Nature certainly did not disappoint.
combo	When I e-mailed them to get information, Lillian responded within minutes to my e-mails with the most helpful information.
combo	It was also a great help that she came to our hotel the same day in person just to complete the booking.
combo	On safari day, they were exactly on time in the morning to pick us up from the hotel.
combo	While on the way to the park, they knew when to talk with us, and when to give us space.
combo	The safari itself was nothing short of fascinating.
combo	Although we couldn't see all the species in Akagera, our guides tried their best, and we could feel that they really cared about us having the best time.
combo	For instance; while chatting on the way to the park, I told them that I have a deep appreciation for elephants that started from a very early age.
combo	After hearing that, they wanted to make sure that I saw an elephant during the safari.
combo	And while nearing the end of the trip, Lillian spotted an elephant napping in the shade of a tree (which none of us was able to spot), and when she pointed it out to us, I could watch the enormous elephant wake up and shoo a warthog away, which is a sight that will be ingrained in my mind forever.
combo	After seeing the elephant, our guides pulled up and stopped the car just so we could watch it as long as we liked and get the best possible view.
combo	Once again, thank you."
combo	"We planned a trip with A Step Into Nature through the Belgium organisation AfriGuideMe.
combo	We arrived late in Kigali, but we got a warm welcomed pick up who got us to our Hotel.
combo	The day after we met our driver Godfrey.
combo	A very nice man who loves making jokes.
combo	He guided us over the border Rwanda/Uganda and got us safely to our lodge at Bwindi.
combo	During the drive we had a lot of questions and Godfrey gave us a good insight of the local culture and also the cuisine.
combo	He took us to the best local restaurants where he likes to eat.
combo	He dropped us at the start of the Congo Nile Trail.
combo	There we met our guide Ferdinant, who guided us during our 4 day trek.
combo	The trek was beautiful with very little tourist.
combo	Ferdinant is a walking African bird encyclopedia and he spots every bird!
combo	You can ask him any question.
combo	He took us through beautiful shortcuts where no cars can drive (there are very little anyways).
combo	The shortcuts are tough and steep.
combo	The last day the hike already ended after 1,5 hour and we asked if we could hike a bit longer which was no problem and the extra 3,5 hours was different scenery as the days before but equally beautiful.
combo	In Kibuye there was a change in our itinerary but they didn't inform us, so we waited for our guide who was going to take us Island hoping in the morning, but he didn't show up.
combo	In the end we still did the island hopping in the morning the next day so it all worked out.
combo	During the trip I was in contact with the Lilian the supervisor through Whatsapp.
combo	I would recommend A step Into Nature.
combo	Thank you for the smooth trip!"
combo	"Four of us set out on an adventure to Akagera Park.
combo	A Step Into Nature company was nothing but professional and fantastic from our first email exchange to the drop off at the hotel.
combo	Lillian responded to my inquiry email within minutes.
combo	She was beyond accommodating and kind.
combo	I had to stay at work little late (still feel bad for keeping her so late on a Friday) and she met me at my hotel to settle the payment.
combo	After that she stayed in touch ensuring we knew the pick up schedule and were satisfied after the trip.
combo	Tito was our driver and if you are going to Akagera, ask for him - he is an experienced driver and spent years working in the park.
combo	He's also an excellent driver, funny, polite, and knew exactly when it was time to chat and when it was time to let us nap - I can't speak highly enough of him.
combo	I am already planning additional trips in Rwanda and will be only using A Step Into Nature their customer service is superb and their prices are very reasonable."
combo	"First time in Rwanda and four of us spent a little less than a week split between Kigale, Akagera park, and Nyungwe park.
combo	A Step Into Nature helped us organize and guided us on both park trips.
combo	They are super competent and low stress.
combo	It was a pleasure dealing with the reservations manager (Lillian Komuhangwe), and our driver (Izra), who is extremely competent, well informed, and a great traveling companion.
combo	Nyungwe was totally wonderful.
combo	We focused on hiking, which we loved.
combo	The chimp tracking is a really special experience, but, echoing what others on Trip Advisor say, note that you may be bushwhacking off trail on steep slopes (depending on where the chimps are.
combo	It's not dangerous (you are in good hands with the trackers), but it is hard work.
combo	Would strongly recommend ankle support (though I managed it in trainers).
combo	We spent three hours chasing the chimps around the landscape and it was a really inspiring experience.
combo	Akagera is also a really interesting park well worth a visit.
combo	The boat ride, which Lillian talked us into, was a highlight.
combo	Very cool to be on the water with hippos and crocs.
combo	You'll see lots of great birds."
combo	"A Step Into Nature was incredibly accommodating.
combo	Lillian at the office was excellent at communicating with me via email, and answered all my questions clearly.
combo	I was only in Rwanda for a few days, and she managed to put together a tailored, two-day tour that ticked off most of my wish-list.
combo	My tour guide Izra was absolutely excellent, very friendly and knowledgeable.
combo	He even organised an impromptu ride on a moto bike taxi for me after I mentioned how I'd wanted to ride one in Kigali.
combo	I can't recommend this company highly enough."
combo	"3 of us (1 a recent resident of Kigali, 2 tourists) had a 1.5 day Akagera tour with A Step Into Nature (ASIN).
combo	From my first contact with this tour operator by email several months before arriving in Kigali, until the farewell from our driver and guide Claude, ASIN was superbly professional in all interactions and service delivery.
combo	First, they accommodated our unusually-sized group with a 1.5 day tour, and adjusted dates at my request several times.
combo	Second, they provided a solid and roomy vehicle, always fully stocked with bottled water (in my experience with other tour operators in the area, you can’t always count on them to provide water!
combo	), ventilated or cooled at our request throughout the time we were with them.
combo	They were present, waiting pleasantly and courteously, and on time for every rendezvous during the tour.
combo	This much is solid basic best practice, but you can’t always count on it.
combo	hit all the marks in this regard.
combo	Where they went beyond is in providing a very personable, knowledgeable, and impeccably professional guide/driver.
combo	One example (of many!
combo	): at a roadside stop one of our party saw an unusual tree and asked what the name of it was; Claude didn’t know the answer on the spot, but somehow he managed to connect with his home base and get us an answer within the hour.
combo	It would have been so easy to just let it slide, but his follow-through speaks volumes about his dedication to customer satisfaction.
combo	And finally, our coordinator with ASIN, Lillian, went above and beyond in helping us pay for and arrange yellow fever vaccinations while we were in Akagera; when we returned to Kigali she was there waiting with our receipts which saved us a big chunk of time spent with bureaucrats.
combo	If there was a sixth star available to award ASIN as part of this review, I would do award it without hesitation.
combo	They know their business and they behave with a very high level of professionalism.
combo	I recommend them without hesitation."
combo	"I took the one day safari into the park.
combo	It was awesome.
combo	Lillian went our of her way to help me get the trip set up, make my payment and even gave me a refund.
combo	Tito was a terrific guide-we got to see an elephant up close and personal but safely!"
combo	"It is with great pleasure that I write a review for A Step Into Nature Tours and their wonderful team.
combo	My wife and I had a wonderful time on this trip and can say without hesitation that Lake Mutanda/Mulehe in Uganda, is one of the most beautiful mountain surrounded lakes we have ever been to.
combo	Of course, the gorilla trek was surreal and one of the coolest excursions we ever been part of as well.
combo	With that being said, Lillian and Godfrey were fabulous!
combo	Lillian set the tone with her flexibility, patience and well-communicated guidance before the trip.
combo	In fact, Lillian made sure to meet us upon our arrival and was as sweet in person as she was over email/phone.
combo	All of the excursions and lodges set up were amazing and wonderful food.
combo	Godfrey was a pleasure to spend our entire 3 night 4 day journey with.
combo	He is very knowledgeable, friendly and made sure that we were always taken care of.
combo	In fact, the highlight of our trip was solely due to Godfrey bringing us to a local school to donate some pens we brought with us.
combo	Little did we know that he had set up (with a local principal) an entire 10-minute musical/dance performance from these unbelievably talented and cute children from a local elementary school.
combo	It was a moment my wife and I will never forget and it was all because of Godfrey!
combo	Needless to say, we decided to switch an excursion last minute and Godfrey and Lillian both were understanding and flexible.
combo	We capped the entire trip off with a dinner in Rwanda where Lillian came by to send us off, well beyond anything we would ever expect.
combo	This trip is superb and this tour operator is top notch.
combo	Feel confident that you will get #1 experience when working with this group.
combo	Best, Jake & Emily"
combo	"My one day trip with Tito was great, he was early to meet me at my hotel in Kigali and stopped along the way to get water since I didn't bring enough.
combo	We had a great time driving around and he taught me many interesting facts and was a fun person to talk to.
combo	Overall great trip!"
combo	"'A Step Into Nature' organized for us, a group of 12 people, a 3 day trip in Akagera National park.
combo	I truly mean what I write now: This organization is really professional, and delivered outstanding quality.
combo	The contact before our trip was really professional.
combo	We where in contact with Janvier and Lillian.
combo	They answered quick and correct.
combo	It was immediatelly clear this organzation knows what tourists like, and that they want to give the customer the best possible experience.
combo	We where picked up (perfectly on time) by drivers/guides Abbey and Tito.
combo	Also Lillian joined the trip.
combo	She was the tour guide/responsible.
combo	As mentionned, she was really helpfull during the preparation of the trip, and organized all kind of practicalities during the trip itself.
combo	We where also very satisfied with our drivers/guides.
combo	They drove good and calm.
combo	We where really at ease.
combo	Further, they had a lot of knowlege of the park, the animals and the country of Rwanda as a whole.
combo	They spoke both good English and French.
combo	Also Lillian did an amazing job.
combo	Everything that was planned was well prepared.
combo	Further, she really thought along with us when making practical decisions, which made her really helpful during the trip as well!
combo	I can really recommend this organization.
combo	Thank you so much ' A step into Nature tours'!!!"
combo	"I booked one-day tour to Akagera National Park with A step into Nature on 12th November and my trip took place on 14th Nov.
combo	The Staff came to my hotel to collect the money as my card did not work in Kigali for wire transfer.
combo	It was so convenient.
combo	The driver's name Abbey and he was kind and friendly.
combo	I joined with 3 other tourists for a safari car trip.
combo	Pick up time was 5:20, it takes 2 hours to arrive the registration point as you will pay full fee here for the driver.
combo	The place is nice, a lot of birds singing in the morning, i felt so amused!
combo	We met a lot wild animals, they said there are ""big five"" that you can see: lion, leppard, giraffe, elephant and hippo.
combo	I saw, sadly could not see lion and leopard but my friend who went here 2 days before me, he saw the leopard.
combo	Lunch is self-prepared, I asked the hotel to pack quite a lot of breakfast so it was enough for even lunch.
combo	I really enjoyed the experience, I wish the national park will have new way for tourists to walk more... because most of the time I spent was in the car.
combo	There are only 2 stops: the Hippoes beach and the picnic point or the end point."
combo	"I did the 1-day tour to Akagera Park and it was absolutely amazing!
combo	We saw zebras, giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and much much more.
combo	Our driver Tito was really knowledgeable about all the animals and very good at spotting them.
combo	Our Jeep had a roof that opened up so we could see very well.
combo	Everything went seamlessly including setting up the tour.
combo	And all of that at a very affordable price.
combo	I did a lot of shopping around and most operators asked for a much higher price.
combo	The best part, the company is run by all Rwandans so you’re really contributing to the local economy.
combo	Can’t recommend highly enough!"
combo	"Amazing 6 day trip to Uganda with my husband and a friend, taking in gorillas at Mgahinga Gorillas National Park, safari game drives and a boat ride in Queen Elizabeth National Park and chimps at Kayumbura Gorge.
combo	Door to door service, fantastic accommodation and great company!
combo	Plus a few extras, like my husband's birthday cake at a viewpoint overlooking the crater lakes!!
combo	No problems at all and good value for money.
combo	This was our second trip with this company and can absolutely recommend them.
combo	In every way this trip exceeded our expectations and we will dine out on wonderful memories for a very long time!
combo	Thank you Lillian!"
combo	"Janvier and his team helped curate an amazing trekking experience for us in Uganda.
combo	Permits to trek gorillas in Uganda are significantly cheaper than in Rwanda.
combo	If you are concerned about the logistics of getting there, let Janvier help you figure it out.
combo	He arranged for our hotel and transport to and from the trekking site.
combo	Our driver and guide, Godfrey and Lilian were so much fun.
combo	They were helpful and took care of everything for us.
combo	The trekking experience was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime privilege."
combo	"I booked and prepaid a gorilla tour through Janvier but since my plans changed canceled the tour about a week before we were set to go.
combo	I did not expect it but was offered a full refund of the prepayment (that was supposed for the national park/gorilla license).
combo	Practically, however, I did not pass by Kigali on my way out of the country which made refunding quite difficult and took several months.
combo	That being said, Janvier did everything in his capacity to get me my money back (minus some bank fees) and I can only recommend him and the company as an honest partner to make your holiday as hassle free as possible."
combo	"Janvier was an excellent host and a very knowledgeable tour guide of the Akagera park and its animals.
combo	We learned so much about the wildlife and the park and even about Rwandans in general.
combo	I am glad we stay for the 2 day tour - since we saw so many more animals and had the experience of staying at the Akagera lodge.
combo	At the lodge, baboons clambered over the roof tops and we received fantastic service and delicious food and, in general, felt pampered.
combo	All in all it was an incredible experience that we will savour in our memories."
combo	"I feel so fortunate to have found Janvier and A Step Into Nature Tours.
combo	He is such a fantastic, amiable, and knowledgable guide.
combo	He did so much to make it an enjoyable and memorable experience.
combo	He went out of his way to find all the amazing animals that the park has to offer.
combo	But, even if we hadn’t seen any, it still would have been a great experience because of Janvier’s jovial company.
combo	Our two day tour involved a game drive and a boat tour on the first day, as well as a longer game drive on the second day.
combo	We saw lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, all in abundance, and many more beautiful animals and landscapes.
combo	We spent the night at Akagera Game Lodge which was a very comfortable experience with beautiful views and excellent food.
combo	Janvier also provides a more affordable experience than many of his competitors.
combo	I cannot recommend Janvier and his company highly enough.
combo	Well worth the money.
combo	A very memorable experience and highlight of my time in Rwanda!"
combo	"A Step Into Nature has made my experience this summer in Rwanda extremely memorable!
combo	The manager, Janvier, understood my student budget and restrictions, and provided us a helpful package deal that made our weekends so amazing.
combo	In the trips themselves, whether it be to Akagera National Park or Nyungwe National Park and Lake Kivu, Janvier was not only a fantastic guide but a fun spirit, and made sure we were always comfortable and enjoying ourselves.
combo	Definitely use A Step Into Nature for your East African travels!"
combo	"Our trip to Akagera park was fantastic!!
combo	The safari truck was very clean, comfortable and provided the best way to see the animals.
combo	The guides were knowledgable and friendly.
combo	We saw zebras, impalas, giraffes, lions, hippos and more!
combo	The price point is perfect for young travellers, a great value for your money.
combo	It was also nice to meet other travellers.
combo	What a fantastic day!"
combo	"Finding Janvier and his company - A Step into Nature - was a pleasant surprise during my visit to Kigali earlier this month.
combo	As a solo traveller, I was a bit nervous joining their day trip to Akagera National Park but it was a great experience.
combo	Janvier was very professional and extremely accommodating and it was a really lovely group.
combo	A Step into Nature provided excellent service which was affordable and great value for money .
combo	The cars were very comfortable and our safety was assured by Janvier who is very experienced at doing this and simply a fantastic guide.
combo	I would definitely patronise them again and I highly recommend you contact Janvier next time you are in Kigali and want to do the tourist trail.
combo	👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾"
combo	"A Step Into Nature and Janvier are the BEST tour guides in Rwanda.
combo	I've gone on two trips with them to Akagera and Nyungwe/Lake Kivu and both were incredible.
combo	Janvier organizes everything so that your trip is perfect.
combo	He brings bottled water, picks you up right on time, and is willing to adapt to make your trip great.
combo	This past weekend, he negotiated a boat ride for us on Lake Kivu, took us to a little store outside of Nyungwe that sells honey, and stopped on the side of the road to get some sugar cane for us to taste.
combo	And I haven't even mentioned the actual sights yet!
combo	Janvier will make sure you see the animals or landscapes you want to see.
combo	He also will give you a list of things to bring with you - whether it's hiking shoes, sandwiches for lunch, or a raincoat.
combo	Janvier provides insight into the country, telling you about towns, history, and other facts as you drive around.
combo	He speaks great English and French and is fun to be with.
combo	His prices are affordable and you are supporting a local business.
combo	I cannot say enough positive things about Janvier and A Step Into Nature!"