An hour, one metre from a silverback. Rwanda holds roughly 40% of the world's remaining mountain gorillas — and almost everyone who goes calls it the most profound wildlife experience of their life.
Rwanda punches far above its size. Premium gorilla trekking, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, a lake shore that rivals anywhere on the continent, and in Kigali one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa. Book the gorilla permit first and plan everything else around it.
Around 12 habituated gorilla families in the Virunga range. Permits are $1,500 per person per day, set by the government, strictly limited to 56 a day, and worth every cent.
One of Africa's oldest rainforests. Chimpanzee trekking, thirteen primate species, over a thousand plant species, and a canopy walkway 50m above the forest floor.
One of Africa's loveliest lakeside settings, along the Congo border. Kayaking, boat trips, and cycling through the tea hills of the Kivu Belt.
Immaculate, safe to walk at night, with a real arts scene and excellent food. The Genocide Memorial is essential and handled with great care.
Lions reintroduced in 2015 and now thriving, rhino in 2017 — the Big Five in a beautiful lake system. Open savannah, completely unlike Volcanoes.