Trudging through the density of the Rwandan forest, the hours seem like an eternity, and it seems all the money and commitment bear little fruit when the crackle of life comes from the ranger’s radio system, a gorilla has been spotted. The chase is on to track it, racing through the vegetation, a test on the body as well as the mind to find within this evergreen maze, and there we spot it, casually sitting there, refusing to bat an eyelid with being totally contempt on eating the surrounding greenery and tending to its young. Suddenly all the effort seems worth it.

Getting up close to a Mountain Gorilla is something like nothing else in the world, within touching distance of our genetic relatives and wowed by their sweet serenity, unfazed by the civil and cross-border conflicts of old. When you aren’t tracking the animals in all their shapes and sizes, the rich cultural heritage and welcoming upbeat attitudes of the Rwandan people can warm any hearts, none more so than through the likes of Intore dancers, the folk traditions comprise of drumming and ‘The Dance of Heroes’.

Rwanda is in a very unique situation, like with many African countries, they consist of countless ethnic groups spread across or in their native regions, with Rwanda, the Banyarwanda (“those who come from Rwanda”) are the solitary group who have their own traditions shaped by colonials and neighbours.

And the best thing about this all? It doesn’t have to cost the earth, niche markets like eco-tourism within Central & East Africa for example are constantly growing with more and more camps and lodges becoming more affordable, so you can have your trip of a lifetime, without saving for a lifetime.

For more information, or for help with creating your own Rwandan adventure simply call 01780 784380 or e-mail info@inspirational-travel.com and our team will be more than happy to help create something that will be unique to you, and only you.