Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

There are four national parks in Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe National Park and Gishwati Mukura National Park. These parks offer an ideal habitat for hundreds of animal species, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, zebras and many more. Rwanda is also a hotspot for bird watching with more than 700 known species. Rwanda has the oldest rainforest in Africa, as well as lakes, waterfalls, mountains, valleys and forests.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

Rwanda has the second fastest growing economy in Africa, partly due to tourism and its focus on sustainability and conservation. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, the number of tourist arrivals almost doubled from 2010 to 2014 bringing the annual total to more than 1.2 million people. In 2018, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) awarded Rwanda with its first Global Leadership Award.

To learn more about traveling in Rwanda, a local expert from the Rwanda Development Board shares information about gorilla trekking, responsible tourism, packing list suggestions and more.

What is Rwanda like?

From the breathtaking landscape to the friendly and welcoming smiles of Rwandans, there is a lot that travelers will get to see when they travel to Rwanda. Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions about Rwanda?

We are constantly working to change the negative narratives and perspectives by marketing Rwanda as a ‘must visit’ travel destination for business and leisure. We have so much to offer the world. Rwanda has transformed from a nation known for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis to one vibrating with creativity and innovation.

What animals can be found in Rwanda?

There are many animal species found here. Rwanda is an up-and-coming safari destination with central Africa’s largest protected wetland in the Akagera National Park on the country’s eastern border with Tanzania. Following the reintroduction of lions and rhinos, we are now home to the Big Five. Rwanda is known for its gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park, as well as chimpanzees and other monkey species, including colobus,  golden, L’Hoest’s, owl faced, Dent’s, blue and vervet, among others. Birding is also very popular in Rwanda. We have one of the highest bird counts on the continent despite being one of the smallest countries in Africa.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

How many gorillas live in Rwanda? 

At the latest count (year 2020), there are approximately 1,004 mountain gorillas in the wild, with 604 in the Virunga Massif region (Rwanda, Uganda & DRC). Of the 604, over 340 live in Rwanda. Visitors that want to experience gorilla trekking will be with guides who know where to find them in the wild. Visitors get to go on a hike and witness what gorillas are like in their natural habitat. Check out the Visit Rwanda webpage about gorilla tracking for more details.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

Can you describe Rwanda’s commitment to responsible tourism?

As guardians of many iconic species, Rwanda is committed to safeguarding their existence, particularly within the four National Parks. We are constantly working to ensure that we can live in sustainable harmony with our environment and have a clean and green mindset. We banned plastic bags in 2008, and our lands are possibly the cleanest in Africa thanks to efforts made in every community throughout Rwanda. Ten percent of the revenue from permits is channeled towards local communities to build schools and health centers, as well as roads. There is a compensation fund for local farmers should wild animals damage their crops, which helps to ensure a peaceful co-existence.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

Are there any special events happening in Rwanda this year?

We have many flagship events throughout the year that attract different visitors from around the globe. Most of the events include conferences, sporting events and the annual Kwita Izina ceremony that is held to celebrate Rwanda’s conservation milestones.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

Where can I go to learn more about Rwanda’s cultural heritage?

To learn more about Rwanda’s cultural heritage, travelers can go to museums, including, but not limited to, the King’s Palace and the National Museum in Nyanza. Creativity is something to be celebrated through traditional dance, unique architecture and works of art – our heritage is all around us.

What should I pack for Rwanda?

The dress code in Rwanda is usually informal yet respectful. For example, men tend to wear trousers but shorts are fine, although walking around without a shirt is frowned upon. It’s best to check the weather forecast before arrival but daytime temperatures in Rwanda are generally warm, so bring lots of light clothing, a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun. A lightweight waterproof jacket may come in handy in the moist mountains. Avoid wearing blue in Akagera National Park, which attracts tse tse flies, and take sensible precautions against mosquitos and other inserts. When tracking gorillas, wear sturdy clothing to protect against stinging nettles and solid walking shoes. Depending on your plans, you may want to consider bringing gardening or leather gloves, as well as gaiters.

Courtesy of Visit Rwanda

Thank you!

To learn more about conservation efforts, check out the following organizations currently working in Rwanda: Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, the Gorilla Organization, International Gorilla Conservation Programme and Gorilla Doctors and Wildlife Conservation Society.

Check here for practical travel information, such as transportation, accessibility, currency, connectivity, visas and more.

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Yes! Icelandic waters are rich with marine wildlife, including more than 20 different species of whales. People travel to Iceland from all over the world to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. To learn more about what watching in Iceland, Sveinn Guðmundsson, from Elding Whale Watching Tours in Reykjavík, shares his knowledge about local whale species, responsible tourism, extraordinary whale sightings and more.

How long have you been giving whale watching tours in Iceland?

Elding Whale Watching Tours started in May 2000, so we‘ve been sailing out with guests and searching for these beautiful creatures for more than 20 years.

What are some of the most common whale species found off the coast of Iceland?

The most common species off the coast of Reykjavík are minke whales (from April to October), humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. We are sometimes greeted by other species, such as orcas (killer whales), fin whales and pilot whales, just to name a few.

Photo courtesy of Elding

Can visitors expect to see a whale on their first whale watching tour? 

Yes and no. Our success rate is quite high, roughly 95% during in the summer. However, this is the wildlife, and we never know how the day will be. That‘s why we always recommend planning the whale watching tour as early during the stay as possible, in case there are no sightings or the weather is bad. In case of non-successful tours, we offer our guests the chance to come back and try again – free of charge.

Is there a particular season or time of day when whales are most active in Iceland?

Not really, whale activity depends on food availability, as the waters around Iceland are important feeding grounds for the minke whales and humpback whales. They are usually busy searching for food.

Can you explain the general code of conduct for responsible whale watching? And, why it’s important?

The code of conduct for responsible whale watching is all about minimizing the impact we have on wildlife and the disturbance we might cause. We want to approach the whales carefully and on their terms, never from the behind or directly from the front, but from the side so they can always see us. We slow down when we get closer to 300 meters and stop when we‘re within 50 meters. The whales are often curious about the vessels and approach us on their own terms, but as these are wild animals they do that 100% on their own terms, and we need to respect that. We also want to be able to sail out again and again, so we do not want to scare the animals away from us.

Photo courtesy of Elding

Where can travelers go to learn more about supporting efforts to protect marine wildlife and ocean habitats in Iceland? 

Travelers can actually learn a thing or two about marine protection, research, whaling (we‘re strongly against whaling) and the cetaceans at our own small whale exhibition. Our naturalists are also marine biologists, and they love to answer questions about the wildlife on our tours, so don‘t be shy to approach a staff member onboard. Ice Whale is a Icelandic whale watching organization with more information on their website about the subject.

What role do whales play in the local culture?

Whales are and have been a big part of the Icelandic culture for ages, and not as the main food source, but as a subject in many stories about sea creatures and monsters, an indicator for fishermen where to find fish and a subject for many marine biologists to study.

Can you name something that might surprise people about whale watching in Iceland?

Most Icelanders who go whale watching with us are surprised to learn that there are actually whales close to the harbour in Reykjavík! Many people believe that whales can be found many miles offshore, not just a few miles from the city center.

Can you describe an extraordinary marine wildlife sighting from one of your tours?

The most extraordinary marine wildlife sighting would have to be a blue whale! They are not a common sight in the waters off Reykjavík, since the waters in the bay are quite shallow and the blue whales are the largest animals on the planet. It was truly an amazing sight to see them and something we will never forget.

In addition to whale watching, what do you enjoy most about living in Iceland?

I enjoy living in Iceland because of the long days during the summer months, the clear and fresh air, the beautiful landscape, and last but not least, the city vibe with its design, fashion, amazing food and live music scene.

Thank you, Sveinn!

Photo courtesy of Elding

About Elding
Elding is a family-owned boat tour operator in Reykjavík offering whale watching and other adventures at sea. They are committed to offering sustainable and wildlife-friendly tours year round.
Website: https://elding.is/
Address: Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik’s Old Harbour
Telephone: +(354) 519 5000
Email: elding@elding.is

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Can you describe Phillip Island’s terrain and wildlife?

Phillip Island is approximately 101 square km in size, connected to mainland Victoria by bridge, and is also accessible by ferry. It is home to a vast array of wildlife, and lays claim to having the world’s largest populations of three wildlife species. The island’s famous Little penguin colony includes approximately 32,000 breeding adults, while the aptly named Seal Rocks, around 2km offshore from the island’s western tip, is home to around 25,000 Australian fur seals. Each summer, up to 1.5 million Short-tailed shearwaters migrate from Alaska to breed along the island’s coastlines, made up of wild surf beaches and gentle family-friendly beaches. Additionally, visitors can expect to see a wide range of Australian wildlife on the island including wallabies, possums, Cape Barren geese, and the recently re-introduced Eastern barred bandicoot, which is considered extinct in the wild on the mainland.

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

What makes the Phillip Island Nature Parks different from other parks in the region?

Phillip Island Nature Parks is unique as, rather than being a single site, it is a collection of reserves, wetlands and ecotourism attractions, which interface with a permanent urban population of approximately 10,000 people (40,000 during the peak summer holiday period). The Nature Parks is a self-funded organisation which manages approximately 1,800 hectares of Crown Land on behalf of the Victorian State Government, and it protects and enhances the environment for our important wildlife species. Our ecotourism attractions attract over 1 million visitors to Phillip Island each year, making them an important contribution to the State’s and local community’s economy. They also ensure that important conservation and research activities can continue to be carried out.

Can you describe the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island? And, what are some of the best ways to experience it?

The Penguin Parade allows visitors to witness the natural spectacle of the world’s smallest (and cutest) penguins arriving home at sunset each evening. They will experience the nightly march from the different beachfront viewing stands, watching as the penguins emerge from the waves and waddle across the sand. Visitors can then see them up close from the boardwalks as the penguins trek along their much-used pathways to their burrows.

There are plenty of viewing options to choose from including General viewing from the terraced stands and boardwalks, or the premium Penguins Plus and Underground experiences, located directly adjacent to the penguins’ most popular pathway. There’s also a range of small group ranger guided tours, limited to just 10 people, with a dedicated ranger to enhance the experience.

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

How many koalas live on Phillip Island? And, what might surprise visitors about seeing them in their natural habitat?

The Koala Conservation Reserve was established in 1996 to address the issue of the island’s dwindling koala population. The Reserve is home to around 20 koalas, in addition to a varying number of koalas who transit through the rehab centre if they have been injured, as was the case during the country’s devastating bushfires earlier this year. The latest census identifies that there are likely only about another 20 wild koalas living outside the reserve on Phillip Island. Visitors will be surprised by how close they can get to the wild koalas in the reserve, thanks to the elevated boardwalks – close enough to get a great view, but not close enough to touch as they are wild animals, and we maintain minimal human physical contact.

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

What does it mean for Phillip Island Nature Parks to be an advanced ecotourism destination?

Being ‘ecotourism accredited’ means that we have been recognised by Ecotourism Australia for implementing the world’s best practice when it comes to sharing our unique and sensitive wildlife and its habitat with visitors. It shows that our tourism operations are ecologically sustainable, and our focus is to foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation within our visitors.

What are some of the ways that people can support Phillip Island Nature Parks’ conservation, research, education and ecotourism activities?

Please can support the Nature Parks by simply purchasing a ticket to visit our attractions or buying a souvenir in our retail stores. Our visitors directly contribute to our conservation, research, education and ecotourism activities, as we are a self-funded, not-for-profit organisation. We also hope that when visiting our sites, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the need to protect nature for wildlife. The Penguin Foundation is the charitable arm of the Nature Parks, and people can adopt a penguin, make a donation or bequest to the Foundation, which then funds specific research and conservation projects across the island.

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Do you have any tips for visiting Phillip Island Nature Parks, such as rules to follow and things to pack?

The Nature Parks is a year-round destination, and there is always something to see or do. Each season has its own beauty. We always suggest being adaptable in clothing choices, as it’s often joked that Victoria, and especially Phillip Island, can experience ‘four seasons in one day’ – so layering is always the best option. We ask that our visitors simply follow the rules of common sense – when in our reserves, stay on the tracks and if they encounter any wildlife, to admire it from a distance. Even though there is no predatory or dangerous wildlife on the island, they are wild animals, and they have the right of way. Come with an open mind and be willing to learn about the importance of protecting nature for wildlife so we can continue to enjoy the experience of being in these natural environments.

What are some of Phillip Island Nature Parks’ best guided tours for first-time visitors?

We offer a range of guided tours at the Penguin Parade, and my personal recommendation is the aptly named Guided Ranger Tour. With a maximum of 10 visitors in a group, a trained and dedicated ranger will take guests, who are equipped with personal headphones, on an informative journey along the boardwalks through the penguin colony. The ultimate destination is an intimate viewing stand, superbly located in the dunes overlooking the western end of Summerland beach, which is the most popular section of the beach the penguins use each night to emerge from the water. Close-up views are then enjoyed from the adjoining boardwalks.

Courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks

Do you have any extraordinary wildlife stories or sightings from recent years?

Every day offers extraordinary wildlife sightings, when you consider that at the Penguin Parade, visitors can be part of a completely wild and natural event, watching the penguins come ashore at sunset as they have done for tens of thousands of years. We are in their home, their environment, and we are privileged to have such incredible access to this nightly spectacle. Some of the most enjoyable and extraordinary experiences would include peak nights during the penguin breeding season, when up to 4,000 penguins cross the beach during a 50 minute viewing time – a breathtaking number of penguins.

Phillip Island Nature Parks
Website: https://www.penguins.org.au/
Phone: +61 3 5951 2800
Email: info@penguins.org.au

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South Plaza Island, Galapagos
© Kimber Wukitsch / Galapagos Conservancy

When is the best time to see giant tortoises in Galapagos?

Galapagos is a year-round destination with comparatively mild weather patterns and very few migratory species. The best time to visit will depend on if you hope to see specific animals, breeding seasons, preferred weather and conditions for activities, such as snorkeling, hiking and diving. The best time to see Giant Tortoises is in the later half of the year after June as the Giant Tortoises are more active trying to find a mate and laying their eggs.

What makes the Galapagos Islands worth visiting?

The Galapagos Islands are an excursion-oriented destination with well-regulated tourism focused on making sure visitors get an authentic and comprehensive sense of place, as well as a very personal experience. The Galapagos National Park Directorate and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism require that tour providers strive to make their businesses as environmentally friendly as possible. The Islands are governed by a Special Law that supports conservation and the preservation of its unique environment, which guides careful management to ensure a balance between the populated areas and protected areas.

A Blue-footed Booby in Galapagos
© Lori Ulrich / Galapagos Conservancy

How do the Galapagos Islands protect their environment?

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most well-protected ecosystems in the world. The islands and the surrounding waters form a national park and marine reserve with strong measures in place to control the impact of human activities on the unique wildlife. In 1979, the Galapagos Islands became the world’s first UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site — an honor bestowed upon our planet’s most magnificent places.

What animal species live on the Galapagos Islands?

Well-known species found only on the Galapagos Islands include the iconic giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, flightless cormorants, lava lizards, Darwin’s finches, mockingbirds, penguins, sea lions, fur seals and waved albatross, among others.

Adult Tortoises on Wolf Volcano
© James Gibbs / Galapagos Conservancy

Marine Iguana and Lava Lizard © Stuart Hill

A Galapagos Penguin on Isabela Island
© Lori Ulrich / Galapagos Conservancy

What can visitors do to practice responsible tourism on the Galapagos Islands? 

Galapagos Conservancy encourages visitors to travel with accredited, licensed tour providers with a strong commitment to Galapagos conservation. Look for companies that have corporate philosophies or are members of organizations that ensure adherence to strict environmental standards and social responsibility in their operations. Some companies go beyond simply complying with regulations and are proactive in their efforts to preserve Galapagos by supporting community and conservation projects. Following a few simple rules is all it takes for you to experience the magnificence of the islands in a sustainable way. From following the park rules and respecting the wildlife to purchasing souvenirs wisely, your choices will make a difference.

Why is conserving the Galapagos Archipelago important to the Galapagos Conservancy?

Galapagos has been described as one of the most unique, scientifically important and biologically outstanding areas on earth. Charles Darwin’s observations on the wildlife and geology of these islands played a key role in the development of the theory of evolution by natural selection. This has made the islands a popular and breathtaking vacation destination.

However, as a result of centuries of ecological damage, human population increases and aggressive invasive species, many of the unique wildlife and plants – both on land and in the ocean – are threatened, and in some cases are critically endangered. For almost 40 years, Galapagos Conservancy has been committed to conserving the biodiversity of this extraordinary world treasure.

How many giant tortoises live on the Galapagos islands?

The population estimate for the 15 tortoise species is around 30,000 in total – identified across the archipelago. Some species have large healthy populations, others, such as the Espanola tortoise, have been rescued from the brink of extinction.

GTRI Director Wacho Tapia takes measurement of a tortoise on Wolf Volcano
© James Gibbs / Galapagos Conservancy

Can you describe the Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative?

The Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative is a collaborative effort led by Galapagos Conservancy and the Galapagos National Park Directorate. The long-term goal of the initiative is to restore tortoise populations impacted by human activity to their historical distribution and numbers across Galapagos, including on islands where tortoises went extinct. This monumental effort includes research and conservation on tortoises, vegetation and ecosystems on targeted islands, breeding and rearing tortoises of threatened species, repopulating islands where tortoises went extinct or their numbers have been significantly depleted as a result of human activity and research and management of modern-day tortoise-human interactions and conflicts. For more information, click here.

Galapagos National Park Rangers Marking an Eastern Santa Cruz Tortoise for Future Monitoring
© Galapagos Conservancy / GTRI

What might surprise travelers about the Galapagos Islands?

A few things might surprise travelers, especially the close up connection with the fearless land and marine animals – something that has to be experienced to be understood. Also, the striking ruggedness of the arid landscape despite being in a tropical region of the world. Many visitors are surprised to find that about 30,000 people currently live in the towns and villages on the four inhabited islands. Plus the important adjustment for visitors to abide by the regulations that guide tourism and human activities, such as having your aircraft fumigated, being asked to stay within marked trails and never touching the animals.

Santa Fe Island Landscape © Harrison Goldspiel / Galapagos Conservancy

Tortoises on Wolf Volcano
© James Gibbs, Galapagos Conservancy

What should you pack for the Galapagos Islands?

Be sure to pack hardy, comfortable clothing and footwear for the rough and varied terrain, protective sun gear for swimming and snorkeling and sunscreen and hat for protection against the equatorial sun.

About Galapagos Conservancy
Galapagos Conservancy focuses exclusively on helping to protect and restore the Galapagos Islands. Their role as facilitator and catalyst over almost four decades is in partnership with the key organizations that work in both conservation and in the development of a sustainable society. Galapagos Conservancy is able to target financial support in a timely way and provide technical backup where needed. By building partnerships and leveraging already existing capacities within Galapagos organizations, Galapagos Conservancy aims to enhance what already exists to achieve greater success.
Website: https://www.galapagos.org/

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