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Nestled in the southwestern part of Rwanda, in the picturesque town of Cyangungu, lies the expansive and awe-inspiring Nyungwe National Park. This beautiful oasis, adjacent to Lake Kivu and close to the borders of Burundi and the DR Congo, sprawls over 970 km² of lush green land.

This haven, which began its journey as a forest reserve in 1903, has evolved over the past century. It was officially recognized as a National Park in 2004, symbolizing Rwanda’s commitment to conservation.

The heart of the park, the Nyungwe Forest, is its most treasured asset. This forest stands as the largest remaining montane forest in Africa and has been a silent witness to the world’s changes since the Ice Age.

The park’s topography, characterized by a mix of mountains, hills and plains ensures a flourishing ecosystem.

It boasts a staggering 1,060 recorded plant species and 85 mammal species, with a special spotlight on its 13 primate species including the rare owl-faced monkeys, golden monkeys and the Angola Colobys Monkey.

The Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc National de Volcans (PNV), is a true gem of Rwanda, nestled in the picturesque Northern Province. Covering an expansive area of 160 square kilometers, this park has gained international acclaim for its vital role in conserving some of the world’s most endangered species, particularly the magnificent Mountain Gorillas.

The history of the Volcanoes National Park is intertwined with the conservation efforts of the early 1920s when it was established alongside the Virunga National Park in the DR Congo and the Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.

These three parks collectively form the Virunga conservation area, primarily dedicated to safeguarding the critically endangered mountain gorillas.

One of the pivotal moments in the park’s history came with the arrival of Dian Fossey in 1967, leading to the establishment of the Karisoke Research Center. Her pioneering work not only brought significant attention to the park but also played a crucial role in curbing rampant poaching. Fossey’s dedication to gorilla conservation garnered essential funding for various programs, ensuring the survival of these remarkable apes.

Akagera National Park, nestled in Eastern Rwanda along the Tanzanian border, is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of dedicated conservation efforts. Stretching across 1,200 sq kilometers and established in 1934, Akagera is an emblem of Rwanda’s natural heritage.

Akagera is named after the River Kagera, which nourishes several lakes, including Lake Gishanju, Lake Ihema, Lake Mihindi, Lake Rwanyakizinga, and Lake Shakani. These water bodies, set amidst the backdrop of vast savannah grasslands, dense forests, sprawling plains, and undulating hills, paint a mesmerizing panorama, making Akagera a picturesque destination.

Despite its breathtaking beauty, Akagera has been scarred by its turbulent past. The horrors of the 1994 Rwanda genocide and ensuing civil war ushered in a refugee crisis. Many refugees, upon return, sought refuge in the park, leading to poaching and deforestation.

These acts of desperation not only threatened the native fauna but also led to some species facing local extinction. Amidst these challenges, a difficult decision was made: half of the park was allocated to displaced communities, leaving the remaining half for wildlife.