Month: February 2025

Located in the heart of Uganda’s most popular and iconic park, Murchison Falls National Park. Entikko Safari Lodge is a classic premier destination for travelers seeking an unparalleled Uganda wildlife safari experience. This classic lodge offers a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and immersion in nature, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the untamed beauty of Uganda.

Luxurious Accommodations.

The Lodge redefines the concept of a safari getaway and it boasts a collection of elegantly designed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully crafted to provide guests with the utmost comfort and tranquility. Wake up to the sounds of nature and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness from your private balcony.

Immersive Safari Experiences.

Entikko Safari Lodge is situated in close proximity to several national parks and game reserves, including Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale National Park. The lodge offers guided safari excursions, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, who will help guests spot an array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and chimpanzees.

Amenities and Activities

Entikko Safari Lodge provides a range of amenities and activities to enhance guests’ stay. These include:

• Dining: Savor delicious meals at the lodge’s restaurant, which serves a fusion of international and local cuisine.
• Bar: Enjoy refreshing cocktails and drinks at the lodge’s bar, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Swimming Pool: Relax and unwind at the lodge’s swimming pool, which is surrounded by comfortable loungers and scenic views.
• Spa: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment, including massages and other therapies.
• Cultural Experiences: Participate in cultural activities, such as traditional dance performances and village visits.
• Conservation Efforts

A Commitment to Sustainability

Entikko Safari Lodge is deeply committed to responsible tourism and environmental conservation. The lodge employs sustainable practices to minimize its ecological foot-print, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness.

Entikko Safari Lodge is a true gem of African hospitality, offering an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness Murchison Falls National Park. With its classic rooms, immersive safari experiences, and commitment to conservation, this lodge is an ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable African adventure.

Rwanda is safe, and is one of the safest destinations in Africa, with seamless experiences awaiting all visitors to discover and enjoy, despite conflicts in neighbouring D.R. Congo. The Rwanda Development Board has released a statement regarding the ongoing situation in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo as stated below.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is a government institution in Rwanda with a broad mandate to oversee the development of Rwanda’s tourism sector, including marketing the country as a destination, managing national parks (like Volcanoes National Park), and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

• The ongoing situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a domestic conflict between the DRC government and Congolese armed groups.
• Importantly, this conflict remains contained within DRC, and as such, the operations of Rwandan businesses and the experiences of tourists in Rwanda are completely unaffected.
• Rwanda has put in place all the necessary measures to ensure the security of our borders and the safety of our citizens and all those who visit us.
• Tourists continue to have the same remarkable experiences as always.
• Rwanda remains one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the world and is committed to ensuring peace and security for its citizens and visitors alike. The government continues to prioritize measures that safeguard our borders and promote stability in the region.

The Government of Rwanda continues to prioritize measures that safeguard our borders and promote stability in the region.

We warmly invite travellers and investors from across the globe to experience all that Rwanda has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

The Top experience to explore in Rwanda.

Nature and Wildlife

1. Gorilla Trekking: Visit Volcanoes National Park for a thrilling encounter with mountain gorillas.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking: Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park to spot chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
3. Wildlife Safari: Go on a game drive in Akagera National Park to spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife.
4. Birdwatching: Discover Rwanda’s diverse birdlife, with over 700 species.

Culture and History

1. Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre: Learn about Rwanda’s history and the 1994 genocide.
2. Museum of Natural History: Discover Rwanda’s natural history, including its geology, flora, and fauna.
3. Traditional Dance Performances: Experience Rwanda’s vibrant culture through traditional dance performances.
4. Local Market Visits: Explore local markets, such as the Kimironko Market, to experience Rwanda’s daily life.

Rwanda is safe is for Adventure and Sports

1. Hiking and Trekking: Explore Rwanda’s scenic landscapes on foot, including the Virunga Mountains.
2. Mountain Biking: Ride through Rwanda’s rolling hills and scenic countryside.
3. Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through Rwanda’s lakes and rivers, such as Lake Kivu.
4. Paragliding: Soar above Rwanda’s stunning landscapes for a bird’s-eye view.

Food and Drink

1. Local Cuisine: Try traditional Rwandan dishes, such as umutsima (cassava and cornmeal porridge) and brochettes (skewers of marinated meat).
2. Coffee Tasting: Sample Rwanda’s famous coffee, known for its high quality and distinct flavor.
3. Local Beer: Try Rwanda’s local beer, such as Primus or Skol.
4. Fresh Fruit: Enjoy Rwanda’s fresh fruit, including bananas, mangoes, and pineapples.

Rwanda is safe for Community-Based Tourism

1. Visit Local Communities: Engage with local communities and learn about their daily life and traditions.
2. Support Local Artisans: Purchase local handicrafts and support Rwanda’s artisans.
3. Participate in Community Projects: Join community projects, such as tree planting or village clean-up initiatives.
4. Homestays: Stay with local families and experience Rwanda’s hospitality firsthand.

Nyungwe Zipline, an exciting new adventure, is set to open in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda. This electrifying experience will allow visitors to soar through the rainforest canopy, offering breath-taking views of ancient treetops and wildlife. UNESCO World Heritage Site-Nyungwe Forest National Park nestled in the rolling hills of southwestern Rwanda. This enchanting destination offers a unique fusion of natural splendor, thrilling adventure, and luxurious indulgence, catering to the most discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable African experience.

Thrill-seekers and nature lovers, rejoice! Nyungwe Zipline is set to be completed in March, with testing and guide training to follow. The official opening is slated for April or May, so start planning your trip to Rwanda and get ready to experience the ultimate adventure! This electrifying experience will allow visitors to soar through the rainforest canopy, offering breath-taking views of ancient treetops and wildlife.

Key Features and Specifications

The Nyungwe Zipline boasts an impressive array of features, including:

1. Three ziplines, stretching 320m, 550m, and 1020m in length, respectively.
2. Heights of approximately 50-80m above ground, ensuring an exhilarating and immersive experience. This makes it one of the longest ziplines in Africa, promising an unforgettable experience for adrenaline junkies.
3. A unique and thrilling adventure that ranks among the longest ziplines in Africa.

Eco-Tourism Experience

The Nyungwe Zipline is part of Nyungwe Forest National Park’s diverse range of attractions, including the canopy walkway and Ndabarare waterfall trail. Visitors can combine their ziplining adventure with chimpanzee trekking, or canopy walk exploring the park’s stunning natural beauty, and encountering its incredible wildlife.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Preparatory work for the zipline is already underway, with an environmental impact assessment report ensuring that the project minimizes its footprint on the park’s delicate ecosystem. This commitment to sustainability reflects Rwanda’s dedication to eco-tourism and conservation.

Nyungwe Forest National Park: A Hidden Gem

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to a small population of unique chimpanzees, 12 other species of primates, and a variety of bird species. The park’s canopy walkway and Ndabarare waterfall trail offer additional opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Nyungwe Zipline is sure to deliver. Book your Safari, strap yourself in, and get ready to soar through the heart of Africa!

In the picturesque southwestern corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur, offering an exclusive and unforgettable journey into the depths of Africa’s most breath-taking rainforest. It’s a premier eco-tourism destination, renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities including Nyungwe Zipline.

When it comes to accommodation, the park offers luxurious and immersive experience, Nyungwe Forest Lodge is a top choice. This 5-star lodge offers stylish rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding forest, relax by the fireplace, or unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment at One & One Nyungwe Forest.

Is it safe to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking? Yes, it is without doubt that Rwanda is one of Africa’s best and safest destinations to visit to enjoy gorilla trekking. Rwanda has enjoyed about 3 decades of prevailing peace and security making it a preferred destination for gorilla trekking. The historic 1994 genocide marked the end of civil wars in the Republic of Rwanda making it a peaceful and lovely place to track mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

What you need to know about gorilla trekking when you visit Rwanda

Before you consider traveling to track mountain gorillas in Rwanda, it is important to take certain precautions. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is safe and secure but observing the set safety measures is essential because the entire interaction with mountain gorillas is done in the wild. In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is where all gorilla treks are conducted and visitor adventure starts with a briefing about safety measures or gorilla trekking rules.

Safety measures to be observed during the gorilla trekking tour

A professional park ranger guide

During the actual gorilla safari, visitors are allocated an experienced armed park ranger guide. Volcanoes National Park has experienced and knowledgeable park ranger guides that the official allocates to lead a group of visitors to search for the rare mountain gorillas in the wild.

The park ranger guides are normally found at Kinigi during the briefing session. It is a must to have a park ranger guide accompanying you on a trek to see gorillas. While in the jungle interacting with gorillas, visitors are required to observe or respect the guide’s instructions.

Acceptable age limit for gorilla trekking

When it comes to gorilla trekking, the acceptable age is usually 15 years and above. This age limit should be respected for a good reason. First, persons above 15 years have confidence even when the gorillas charge and can easily be controlled. This is a different case with children who can easily get frightened when a silverback gorilla charges.

Presence of the park ranger guides

Volcanoes National Park is protected by a team of park rangers who also work together with other security organs. Not only do the park rangers play a significant role in protecting mountain gorilla habitats, but also visitors. Visitor safety during or after trekking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or any other destination is essential and is the priority by tour operators and the park authorities.

Security checkpoints

Right from the moment you touch the soil of Kigali, expect a thorough security check at the security checkpoint. Everything is done to ensure that there are no incidences of attacks on the clients. You can be allowed to embark on active gorilla trekking when the park authorities are certain that you are free from any threats. After you have been crosschecked, you can then join other visitors for a briefing about gorilla trekking regulations.

Safety measures to be followed

Before you go to search for gorillas, you will be briefed about the safety measures to be followed during the guided gorilla trek. There are multiple safety measures to be observed including respecting the distance of 7-8 meters away from gorillas, visiting only already habituated gorilla groups, embarking on a gorilla trek with the park ranger guide on the lead, avoiding wearing shouting clothes, and not use of flashlight cameras.

Gorilla trekking permits

A valid gorilla permit is essential for anyone with plans to track Rwanda mountain gorillas and should be booked in advance. Each permit is available for booking at USD 1500 per visitor and is valid for only a single trek.

How to ensure you are safe during gorilla trekking in Rwanda

When planning to book a gorilla holiday, ensure that you deal with the local tour operator on the ground. There are multiple registered tour operators or companies in Kigali to deal with for booking a gorilla trekking tour and also permits. During the actual trek to see gorillas, always observe what your park ranger guide tells you to do. Observe what the guide tells you to do, especially when the gorilla has charged at you. At this point, you are advised to stay calm and avoid any temptation of running away.

Book a safe safari lodge in the park or close to the park.

Your gorilla safari company or tour operator can guide you on which accommodation to book for an overnight stay in Volcanoes National Park. You must pay keen attention when choosing the right accommodation for an overnight stay. Top lodges to consider for overnight stay include Bisate Reserve, One & Only Gorilla Nest, Singita Kwitonda, Virunga Inn, and Amarembo By Touch Down.

When planning to go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, choosing a safe and secure place to stay should be a must. Talk to the local expert to book the right accommodation for your overnight stay.

Where is Volcanoes National Park found?

Volcanoes National Park is lying in the Northern region in Rwanda. The park is surrounded by Musanze, Nyabihu, Rubavu, and Burera. The 160 sq. km Volcanoes National Park is home to not only mountain gorillas but also other wild animals. These include golden monkeys, buffaloes, forest elephants, duikers, bush-bucks, spotted hyenas, giant forest hogs, and many other primate species.

Bird species include the black cuckoos, Rwenzori batis, lagden’s bush-shrike, Kivu ground thrush, Black cuckoo, Lagden’s bush-shrike, Archer’s ground robin, Rwenzori double-collared sunbirds, weird weavers, baglafetch, red-faced woodland warblers, dusky crimson wing, and more.

How to get to Volcanoes National Park safely when visiting Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking

Volcanoes National Park can be reached safely by road whereby travelers can embark on a road trip from Kigali. From Kigali Capital to Volcanoes National Park can be reached within a 2-3 hours drive. Helicopter flights into Volcanoes National Park are increasingly popular, with approximately 30 scenic flights operating regularly. Many of the luxury lodges in the area also feature private helipads, offering seamless and stylish access to this breathtaking destination.

Visitors can connect from Kabale or Kisoro to Volcanoes National Park and within 4-5 hours, you can be at the park.

By air, your tour operator can also arrange a fly-in safari from Kigali to the Airport near Volcanoes National Park in Musanze/Ruhengeri.

Conclusively, Rwanda is safe and secure for gorilla trekking. Visitor safety is assured thanks to the safety measures for gorilla trekking and the government’s commitment effort to promote peace and security in the country at large.