I just completed the Whales & Bears of British Columbia tour and it was incredible. From the first ferry ride to Vancouver Island, I was immersed in wild coastline and ancient rainforest. We spotted humpback whales breaching off the bow and watched black bears comb the shoreline for crabs. A full-day outing to the Orford River treated us to grizzlies feasting on salmon amid misty fjords. The group was small, the guides passionate, and every day brought something surprising. Yes, there were long drives and changeable weather, but it all added to the adventure. I’d highly recommend it
Wildlife Holidays in Rwanda
Rwanda Wildlife Holidays
Top 5 Rwanda Wildlife
Gorillas: Rwanda’s volcanoes are a natural habitat for the mountain gorilla with around a third of the country’s population found here. The gorilla is one of the most significant species of wild animals in Rwanda but sadly they have become endangered in more recent years. There are two different species of gorilla: the mountain gorilla and Grauer’s gorillas. One of the best places to see these majestic animals is at Volcanoes National Park which lies in north-western Rwanda. The park covers approximately 160k of rainforest and plays host to eight volcanoes.
Elephants: There are various species of elephant found in Rwanda, mainly in Akagera National Park where there are believed to be 100 living at this present time, although the population is on the increase. Unfortunately poaching is still a huge threat to these beautiful animals but there are ongoing conservation projects in place to protect the species. The African savanna elephant is the largest of the species and an adult male can weigh up to a staggering 10 tonnes. Surprisingly their prehensile trunks are extremely strong and can lift almost 3% of their own body weight.
Lions: Prior to the Rwandan Civil War in 1994, lions were in abundance. However, many were sadly killed during the conflict and there are believed to be just 25 remaining in Rwanda. The majority of the lions are now protected in Akagera National Park, and it’s thought that some may have arrived from Tanzania. During a major conservation project, seven lions were donated by two national parks in South Africa to increase the population in Rwanda.
Antelope: Native to Africa, there are several species of antelope found in Rwanda, mainly in Akagera National Park, which stands in the east of the country. While impalas, duikers and klipspringers have made the park their home, the more common roan antelopes are often found in woodlands and savannah grasslands. The roan is one of the continent’s largest hooved animals, only outsized by the eland and African buffalo. Easily recognised by its reddish-brown colour, the roan is the most familiar species to anyone embarking on a wildlife tour of Akagera National Park.
Guereza: Probably the least recognisable of all the above Rwandan wildlife, the Guereza is a small black and white monkey found in African countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Nigeria. The beautiful mantled species has a long silky white fringe, and its natural habitat is that of savannah woodland, swamps and rivers where there are plenty of trees to feed off.
Georgia Letts Whales & Bears of British Columbia
Peter Ackerman Wildlife & Wilderness of BotswanaThis trip exceeded our expectations in almost every way. The proximity to the wildlife was extraordinary, the range of wildlife was exceptional and the entire experience is unforgettable. The trip was enhanced by the outstanding nature of our group leader, Brian, and the support team, Brighton, Timoth and Moeti. The food was excellent and nothing was too much trouble for the team. The trip is tough, early starts, lots of dust and bumpy roads but the rewards make all of this worthwhile and part of the experience.
Benoit Pigeon Discover Costa RicaThe guide was amazing, the food and hotel were really good. I was expecting to hike in the forest and mountains but it was more of a bird watching tour. So it was zero walking and lots and lots of bird watching standing still for long periods of time. It was not what i was looking for.
The Adventure Begins Here
Get regular inspiration straight to your inbox from Exodus’ experts.