ARRIVALS Photos courtesy of Austin Mann | One&Only Nyungwe House | Bisate Lodge
HOTSPOT:
R WAN D A By Rina Chandarana
Landlocked Rwanda might be small in size, but it is big on wildlife, rolling green hills and welcoming people. Add to that the chance to bear witness to history as the country rapidly forges ahead on a new path, while embracing and honoring its painful past. Journeys to Rwanda have even deeper significance.
Get up close to gorillas in Rwanda
G O F OR THE GORI LLA S Dubbed the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda's fertile landscape is dotted with farms and soaring jungle-covered mountains that are home to a wide array of primates. Half of the world’s gorillas reside in Volcanoes National Park. Famously, world-renowned researcher Dian Fossey studied these magnificent creatures here, inspiring generations of travelers. Undoubtedly the most popular park in Rwanda, it remains a draw for adventure-seekers wanting to spot baby gorillas around the breathtaking Virunga Volcanoes. Make the trip in the wet season when the gorillas are found on lower elevations, making treks easier. Look up when you can — golden monkeys also live in the park, munching on bamboo and performing leaping air acrobatics from tree to tree. See it all from Bisate Lodge, located within an extinct volcano valley. Villas are thatch-covered and large windows bring in unrivaled views of the mountain habitat. Emerald green chandeliers mimic the leafy forests and fresh meals are prepared with produce plucked straight from the on-site garden. 14
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