Zimbabwe offers a powerful blend of dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, rich cultural history, and welcoming people. For first-time travelers, it’s a destination of iconic natural attractions, accessible safari experiences, and a range of activities from adventure sports to relaxed lodge stays.

Top destinations

• Victoria Falls: One of the world’s largest and most famous waterfalls. Activities include viewing from multiple vantage points, helicopter or microlight flights, white-water rafting (seasonal), bungee jumping, sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, and wildlife viewing in nearby parks.

• Hwange National Park: The country’s largest game reserve, known for large elephant and buffalo populations, good predator sightings, and a mix of open plains and mopane woodland. Options range from guided game drives to walking safaris and private-concession lodges.

• Mana Pools National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site along the Zambezi River, prized for canoeing safaris, close-up wildlife viewing, and low-impact, remote camping and walking safaris. Best for adventurous travelers seeking solitude and prime game encounters.

• Matobo (Matopos) National Park: Known for striking granite kopjes, ancient San rock art, rhino conservation projects, and the burial site of Cecil Rhodes. Offers scenic walks, rock-climbing, and cultural history.

• Great Zimbabwe Ruins: The largest collection of stone ruins in sub-Saharan Africa, these archaeological remains near Masvingo are a key cultural and historical site, shedding light on indigenous statecraft and architecture from the 11th–15th centuries.

• Eastern Highlands: Mountainous region with cool climate, forests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and tea estates. Popular for scenic drives, birding, and trekking (e.g., Nyanga and Chimanimani ranges).

• Lake Kariba: One of the world’s largest man-made lakes, offering fishing (notably tigerfish), houseboat stays, relaxed game viewing, and sunset cruises.

Best time to travel

• Dry season (May–October): Generally the best time for game viewing—animals concentrate around water sources, roads are more passable, and mosquitoes are fewer. Victoria Falls has lower water volume at the end of the dry season, but views remain spectacular; some river activities are seasonal.

• Wet/green season (November–April): Landscapes are lush, many migratory birds arrive (excellent birding), and waterfalls reach peak flow (Victoria Falls are most dramatic). However, some roads can be difficult, and insect-borne illness risk increases. Late rains (March–April) can make remote areas less accessible.

• Shoulder months (April–May and September–November) can offer a balance: fewer crowds, good wildlife viewing, and pleasant weather.

Key facts and practical information

• Capital and major cities: Harare (capital), Bulawayo, Mutare. Cities offer markets, museums, and cultural sites but can feel busy compared with national parks and tourist hubs.

• Language: English is the official language for government and business; Shona and Ndebele are the main indigenous languages. Many people in urban and tourist areas speak English.

• Currency and payments: The Zimbabwean dollar (ZIG) is the local currency, but the U.S. dollar is widely used and accepted in many tourism areas. Cash is essential in remote locations; major lodges and hotels accept cards but connectivity can be unreliable. Check current currency and cash availability before travel.

• Visas and entry: Visa rules change—many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or e-visa, but confirm requirements for your passport well before travel.

• Health and safety: Consult a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations (e.g., routine vaccines, yellow fever if required, hepatitis, typhoid) and malaria prophylaxis for many regions (Victoria Falls, lowveld, and game parks). Carry insect repellent and use mosquito nets where needed. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is recommended.

• Roads and transport: Major routes between cities are paved, but secondary roads (especially during the wet season) can be rough or impassable. Domestic flights connect key safari and tourist areas; 4x4 vehicles are useful for self-drive safaris or remote lodge access. Allow extra travel time for road conditions.

• Wildlife and conservation etiquette: Keep a respectful distance from animals, follow guide instructions, do not feed wildlife, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Many lodges support conservation initiatives—ask about responsible tourism options.

• Electricity and connectivity: Power supply can be unstable in places; many lodges have backup generators or solar systems. South African-style 3-pin plugs (Type M) are common—bring adaptors. Mobile coverage is good in towns and some parks; expect limited or slower internet in remote areas.

• Cultural tips: Zimbabweans are generally warm and polite. A respectful greeting goes a long way

Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa known for dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife and warm, welcoming communities. It offers a quieter, less commercialized safari experience than some neighbors, plus impressive natural wonders, cultural experiences and opportunities for adventure.

Top destinations

• Victoria Falls (Livingstone): One of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls. Activities include guided falls tours, helicopter and microlight flights, white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping, sunset cruises and nearby wildlife excursions.

• South Luangwa National Park: Renowned for walking safaris and high concentrations of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards and hippos. Mfuwe and other camps provide intimate game-viewing and night drives.

• Lower Zambezi National Park: Remote riverside park offering canoeing, boat safaris, fishing and game drives with good chances to see large mammals and abundant birdlife.

• Kafue National Park: One of Africa’s largest national parks with varied habitats, excellent birding and less-visited wildlife areas. Good for travelers seeking solitude and wide-open landscapes.

• North Luangwa and Liuwa Plain National Parks: For off-the-beaten-path safaris — North Luangwa for wilderness and walking safaris; Liuwa Plain for its wildebeest migration and wide grasslands.

• Lusaka: The capital and main transport hub, with markets, restaurants and museums. Useful as a starting point for domestic flights and overland travel.

• Livingstone town: The tourist center for activities around Victoria Falls, with markets, museums and accommodation ranging from budget to luxury.

Best time to travel

• Dry season (May to October): Generally the best time for wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources and vegetation is thinner. Victoria Falls still impressive at the start of this period; lower water levels later in the dry season can improve visibility of the falls’ geological features.

• Wet/green season (November to April): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent birding and newborn wildlife sightings. Heavy rains (usually peak December to March) can make some roads difficult and limit access to remote parks.

• Shoulder months (April–May and September–November): Offer a balance of good wildlife viewing, fewer crowds, and favorable weather transitions.

Key facts

• Location and size: Landlocked in southern Africa, bordered by Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Area roughly 752,000 sq km.

• Population and language: Population about 20 million. English is the official language; several Bantu languages (e.g., Bemba, Nyanja) are widely spoken.

• Currency: Zambian kwacha (ZMW). Credit cards accepted in larger hotels and lodges; cash useful in rural areas and markets.

• Time zone: Central Africa Time (UTC+2).

• Health: Malaria is endemic in most of Zambia; prophylaxis is recommended. Up-to-date routine vaccinations recommended; yellow fever vaccination required only if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Carry insect repellent and use mosquito nets when advised.

• Visas and entry: Visa requirements vary by nationality; some nationalities can obtain visas on arrival or use electronic visas. Check current entry rules before travel.

• Safety: Zambia is generally stable and safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur in cities. Exercise normal precautions: avoid displaying valuables, use reputable transport providers, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

• Infrastructure: Main tourist areas and parks have good lodges and camps with guided activities. Roads outside major towns can be rough or impassable in the rains; domestic flights connect many parks and reduce travel times.

Practical tips for first-time travelers

• Packing: Lightweight breathable clothing, a warm layer for early morning/late evening game drives (dry season), sun protection, sturdy walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries/storage. Bring a small daypack, reusable water bottle and basic first-aid supplies.

• Money and tipping: Carry some local cash for markets and tips. Tipping is customary for guides, drivers and lodge staff — amounts vary by level of service; check lodge guidance or ask locally.

• Electricity: Standard voltage 230V, 50Hz. Plug types vary (British-style three-pin common); bring an adapter.

• Booking activities: Popular activities (Victoria Falls attractions, walking safaris, river trips) can sell out during peak season. Book key experiences and park permits in advance, especially for walking safaris and specialized camps.

• Cultural etiquette: Zambians are generally polite and hospitable. Greet people when entering shops or markets, ask permission before photographing people, and be respectful of local customs and dress norms, particularly in rural areas.

• Wildlife safety: Keep a safe distance from animals

Botswana — a land of wide skies, dramatic waterways and abundant wildlife — is one of southern Africa’s premier safari destinations. Its deliberate conservation policies, low-density tourism model and varied ecosystems make it ideal for visitors seeking quality wildlife experiences, remote wilderness and cultural insight.

Top destinations

• Okavango Delta: A UNESCO-recognized inland delta of channels, lagoons and seasonal floodplains. Game-viewing by mokoro (dugout canoe), motorboat or guided walking safari is exceptional, with strong chances to see elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo and diverse birdlife.

• Chobe National Park: Noted for large elephant herds and riverfront game viewing. Boat cruises on the Chobe River provide close encounters with wildlife coming to drink; game drives reveal predators and plains species.

• Moremi Game Reserve: Situated within the Okavango Delta, Moremi combines floodplain and woodland habitats. It’s known for high biodiversity and excellent photographic opportunities.

• Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR): One of the largest reserves in the world, offering solitude, San (Bushman) cultural experiences and sightings of species adapted to arid conditions, including black-maned Kalahari lions.

• Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pan National Park: Vast salt pans and baobab-dotted grasslands. After rains, the pans burst into seasonal life with zebra and flamingo migrations and dramatic landscapes.

• Tsodilo Hills: Sacred rock art site with thousands of pictographs and deep cultural significance to the San people; ideal for travelers interested in archaeology and indigenous heritage.

• Gaborone: The capital and main entry point, with museums, markets, modern amenities and access to domestic flights or road transfers to northern parks.

Best time to travel

• Dry season (May–October): Generally the best time for wildlife viewing. Water concentrates animals around permanent rivers and lagoons, making sightings more predictable. Cooler mornings and clear skies are common.

• Shoulder seasons (April and November): April follows the rainy season and offers lush landscapes, migratory birds and newborn plains game; November is hot and green before the full rains, with good birdlife and fewer tourists.

• Wet season (December–March): Hotter, with afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is green, water channels fill (especially in the Okavango), and birdlife and newborns are abundant. Some remote tracks may be inaccessible; however, many camps operate seasonally to showcase the flood-driven Delta.

Key facts

• Location: Landlocked in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia (at a single point).

• Capital: Gaborone.

• Population: Sparse — roughly 2.5 million (Botswana is one of Africa’s least densely populated countries).

• Language: English is the official language of government and business; Setswana (Tswana) is widely spoken. Many local languages and dialects are used in communities.

• Currency: Botswana pula (BWP).

• Time zone: Central Africa Time (UTC+2).

• Visas: Requirements vary by nationality. Many travelers can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival; check current rules well before travel.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an infected country. Malaria risk exists in northern and some eastern areas (e.g., Okavango, Chobe, Moremi) — take prophylaxis and use mosquito protection. Stay up to date on routine vaccines; travel health consultation is recommended.

• Safety: Botswana is considered one of the more stable and safe countries in the region, with low rates of violent crime compared with neighbors. Normal travel precautions apply (secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night).

• Infrastructure: Well-maintained roads link major towns; many safari routes are reached by 4x4 tracks. Domestic flights, including small bush planes, are a common and efficient way to access remote camps.

• Electricity: 230 V, 50 Hz; plugs are type D and M in many places—carry an adapter.

• Mobile and internet: Reasonable coverage in towns; limited in remote reserves — many lodges have satellite or limited Wi‑Fi.

Practical tips for first-time travelers

• Book early for peak season: Botswana emphasizes low-volume, high-quality tourism. Popular camps and concessions fill up quickly, especially during the dry season.

• Choose how you want to experience wildlife: Options include game drives, guided walking safaris, mokoro excursions and boat cruises. Walking safaris provide a more intimate perspective but require fitness and a willingness to follow guides’ safety instructions.

• Expect a safari pace: Wildlife sightings can be spectacular but sometimes require patience. Allow several days in each area to improve viewing opportunities and travel flexibility.

• Pack appropriately: Lightweight layers for hot days and cold early mornings; comfortable walking shoes; sun protection (hatBotswana — a land of wide skies, dramatic waterways and abundant wildlife — is one of southern Africa’s premier safari destinations. Its deliberate conservation policies, low-density tourism model and varied ecosystems make it ideal for visitors seeking quality wildlife experiences, remote wilderness and cultural insight.

South Africa offers an extraordinary mix of landscapes, cultures, wildlife and cities — ideal for travelers seeking both big‑game adventure and cosmopolitan experiences. Here’s what to know before you go, how to stay safe, and what kinds of tourism to expect.

Why go

• Diverse scenery: sweeping savannas, dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains (including the iconic Table Mountain), fertile winelands and semi-desert regions.

• World-class wildlife viewing: close encounters with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and rich birdlife in premier reserves.

• Rich cultural mosaic: 11 official languages and a tapestry of traditions, modern art scenes, historical sites tied to apartheid and liberation, plus vibrant food and music cultures.

• Excellent year-round options: different regions shine at different times — safaris in the dry winter months, coastal escapes in summer, and city experiences are pleasant almost any time.

Regions and highlights

• Greater Kruger / Lowveld: One of Africa’s best safari destinations. Private reserves and national parks provide both vehicle and walking safaris, expert guides, and luxury lodges or more rustic camps. Ideal for wildlife photography, tracking, and conservation-focused visits.

• Cape Town and the Western Cape: A dynamic city set between mountains and sea. Highlights include Table Mountain, Cape Point, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, historic Robben Island, a thriving food and wine scene in nearby Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and scenic coastal drives like Chapman’s Peak.

• Garden Route: A popular coastal route with forests, lagoons and beaches. Good for road trips, whale watching, outdoor activities (hiking, canoeing) and small towns with guesthouses.

• KwaZulu‑Natal: Combines subtropical beaches with game reserves (Hluhluwe‑iMfolozi) and Zulu cultural heritage. Durban offers Indian-influenced cuisine and lively beachfront promenades.

• Northern Cape and the Karoo: Vast, dramatic landscapes for stargazing, solitude and unique geology; visit the Kalahari or the augmented Namaqualand wildflower displays in spring.

• Johannesburg and Pretoria: Major urban and business centers with apartheid museums, cultural neighborhoods, markets and lively nightlife. Johannesburg is a gateway for many international flights.

Types of travel experiences

• Luxury safaris: Private concessions, high-end lodges, personalized guides, bush walks, night drives and exceptional service.

• Self-drive road trips: Well-developed roads on major routes; the Garden Route and coastal drives are classics.

• Cultural and historical tours: Museums, township tours with community guides, culinary experiences and heritage routes tied to South Africa’s complex history.

• Adventure and outdoor: Hiking, shark-cage diving, paragliding, surf, mountain biking, and 4x4 trails.

• Wine and gastronomy: World-class vineyards, tasting rooms, and a growing fine-dining scene with a focus on local and fusion cuisine.

• Conservation and volunteer stays: Opportunities to learn about anti‑poaching, wildlife rehabilitation and community-based projects.

Safety and practical tips

• Crime: Urban crime exists, especially opportunistic theft and carjackings in certain areas. Take standard precautions: avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes, remain aware at ATMs, and avoid isolated areas at night. Use reputable transport options (hotel transfers, registered taxis, ride‑hailing services).

• Health: Check routine vaccinations and recommended travel vaccines (e.g., hepatitis A, typhoid). Malaria risk exists in northeastern regions (Kruger, parts of KwaZulu‑Natal); take prophylaxis if advised, use insect repellent and sleep under nets when appropriate. Carry a basic first‑aid kit.

• Documents and entry: Most visitors require a passport valid for at least 30 days beyond departure and with spare blank pages. Visa requirements vary by nationality — check before travel. Always have proof of onward travel and accommodation bookings.

• Driving: South Africans drive on the left. Road conditions on major routes are good; rural roads can be narrow and poorly lit. Keep windows up and doors locked in cities; avoid night driving in remote areas due to wildlife and hazards.

• Money and tipping: The rand is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities; carry some cash for markets and smaller towns. Tipping is customary — guides, drivers, and restaurant staff generally receive 10–15% where service is not included.

• Weather and clothing: Pack layers for varying climates — coastal winds can be cool, while inland daytime temperatures may be hot and dry. Comfortable walking shoes, a sunhat, sunblock and binoculars for wildlife viewing are essential.

Cultural etiquette

• Be respectful of diverse cultures and languages; a few basic greetings in Afrikaans, Zulu or Xhosa are appreciated.

Kenya — an East African country of sweeping savannas, dramatic highlands, a wild coastline, and vibrant cities — is one of the continent’s most accessible and rewarding destinations for first-time travelers. Below is a concise guide to the top sights, practical travel info, and tips to help you plan.

Top destinations

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: World-famous for big-game viewing and the annual Great Migration (July–October). Expect classic safari landscapes, abundant lions, cheetahs, elephants, and guided game drives.

• Amboseli National Park: Renowned for close-up views of African elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop (visible from the park’s southern side in clear weather).

• Tsavo National Parks (East and West): Vast, less-crowded wilderness areas with diverse landscapes, large elephant populations, and dramatic geological features.

• Lake Nakuru and the Rift Valley Lakes: Important birding sites — Lake Nakuru is known for flamingos (seasonally) and rhino conservation; Lake Naivasha offers boat trips and nearby Hell’s Gate National Park for walking, biking, and rock climbing.

• Samburu and Buffalo Springs: Northern reserves with species unique to the region (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich) and a different, rugged landscape.

• Nairobi: The capital has museums (National Museum), cultural attractions, markets, and the Nairobi National Park on its outskirts — a rare urban park with wildlife.

• Lamu Island and the Kenyan Coast (Mombasa, Diani, Malindi): Historic Swahili towns, coral reefs, dhow sails, and white-sand beaches for relaxation and water sports.

• Mount Kenya: Africa’s second-highest peak, offering trekking routes for experienced hikers and scenic highland landscapes for less intensive hikes.

Best time to travel

• Dry season (June to October): Peak safari season — easier wildlife viewing, particularly for the Great Migration in Maasai Mara (July–October). Highlands and beaches are generally pleasant.

• Short rains (October to December) and long rains (March to May): Expect fewer crowds and lower prices. Heavy rains (especially April) can make some roads and parks temporarily inaccessible; birding is excellent in the wet seasons.

• Coastal travel is generally good year-round, though the hottest months are January–March.

Key facts at a glance

• Capital: Nairobi

• Official languages: English and Swahili

• Currency: Kenyan shilling (KES)

• Time zone: East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3

• Entry requirements: Most visitors require a visa (electronic visa system). Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Check current visa and entry rules before travel.

• Population and diversity: Multi-ethnic population with many communities, including the Maasai, Kikuyu, Luo, Kamba, and others; a mix of urban and rural lifestyles.

• Climate: Equatorial to tropical; altitude strongly affects temperature — highlands are cool, coast is tropical and humid.

• Health: Malaria is present in many areas (notably lowlands and coast). Vaccination and preventive measures vary — check current health advisories for yellow fever, hepatitis, routine immunizations, and malaria prophylaxis. Carry a basic first-aid kit and any prescription medicines in original containers.

• Electricity: 240V, British-style 3-pin plugs (Type G). Adapters may be required.

• Safety: Many visitors travel without incident. Exercise standard precautions — avoid displaying valuables, stay informed about local advisories, use reputable transport and guides, and be cautious in unfamiliar neighborhoods at night. Certain border areas and remote regions may have travel warnings; check official government advisories before travel.

Practical travel tips for first-time visitors

• Book safaris and accommodations in advance for peak season. Consider a mix of private reserves and national parks for varied experiences.

• Guided tours: Use licensed guides or drivers for wildlife viewing and cultural visits — they know animal behavior, park rules, and local customs.

• Cash and payments: Major hotels, lodges, and urban businesses accept cards, but cash is useful in rural areas and markets. ATMs are common in cities; carry small denominations for tips and market purchases.

• Respect local culture: Dress modestly outside of beach resorts; when visiting villages or religious sites, ask before photographing people and follow local etiquette.

• Tipping: Common in tourism — for drivers, guides, lodge staff, and porters. Tip based on service and in local currency.

• Wildlife safety: Always follow park rules and guide instructions. Never approach or feed wildlife; keep windows closed when instructed and maintain safe distances.

• Packing: Binoculars, neutral-colored clothing, a wide-brim hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light waterproof jacket for rainy

Rwanda is a compact, verdant country in East-Central Africa known for its rolling hills, lakes, volcanoes, and remarkable wildlife conservation — especially mountain gorillas. Often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers a mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and growing urban energy centered in its capital, Kigali.

Top destinations

• Volcanoes National Park (Virunga Massif): The premier draw is gorilla trekking to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Golden monkey tracking, forest hikes, and cultural visits to nearby communities are also available.

• Nyungwe Forest National Park: An ancient montane rainforest with rich biodiversity. Highlights include chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, birdwatching, and numerous hiking trails.

• Akagera National Park: A savanna park supporting classic African wildlife — elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, lions, hippos, and a healthy bird population. Game drives and boat safaris on Lake Ihema are popular.

• Kigali: Rwanda’s clean, safe, and modern capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, vibrant markets, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. Kigali is a safe and convenient base for starting or ending trips.

• Lake Kivu: A scenic lakeshore destination with beaches, islands, boat trips, kayaking, and relaxed towns such as Gisenyi and Kibuye (now Karongi). Good for combining wildlife with rest and water activities.

• Gishwati-Mukura Landscape and Rusizi/Karongi areas: For forest restoration projects, community tourism, and lesser-known nature walks.

Best time to travel

• Dry seasons are generally best for travel and wildlife activities:

  • Long dry season: June to September — excellent for gorilla trekking, game drives, hiking, and most outdoor activities.

  • Short dry season: December to February — also good for gorilla trekking and fieldwork.

• Wet seasons: March to May (long rains) and October to November (short rains). Rain can make some trails muddy and slippery, though gorilla permits remain valid and the forests are lush and less crowded. Some roads and park access may be more challenging during heavy rains.

Key facts and practical information

• Language: Kinyarwanda (national), French, and English are widely used; English is now the primary language of instruction and business. Swahili is also increasingly common.

• Currency: Rwandan franc (RWF). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in Kigali; cash is useful in smaller towns and for local markets.

• Visa: Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa; check current entry rules before travel.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination may be required for travelers arriving from certain countries. Malaria risk exists in lower-lying areas — prophylaxis is recommended depending on itinerary and season. Stay up to date with routine vaccinations and consider travel health advice specific to planned activities (e.g., gorilla trekking).

• Safety: Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in the region, with low levels of violent crime and strict laws. Normal travel precautions apply: guard belongings, avoid unlit areas at night, and follow local guidance.

• Gorilla permits: Required for gorilla trekking; limited and often sell out well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Book permits early and be prepared for strict park rules (distance limits, health checks, etc.).

• Fitness and access: Gorilla and chimp trekking involves steep, sometimes muddy and slippery jungle trails. Good fitness and sturdy footwear are important. Treks can last several hours; porters are available to assist for an extra fee.

• Culture and etiquette: Rwandans are generally polite and conservative. Dress modestly in rural areas, ask permission before photographing people, and show respect at memorial sites (the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a solemn place).

• Connectivity: Mobile networks and internet are widely available in cities and many tourist hubs. Coverage can be limited in remote parks; plan accordingly.

• Transportation: Domestic flights link Kigali with some parks and regions; road travel is common and distances are relatively short compared to many African countries. Roads vary from well-paved highways to rough rural tracks. Motorcycle taxis (motos) are common in towns.

• Electricity: Standard voltage is 230V, 50Hz. Plug types commonly used are Type C and Type J; bring adapters if needed.

Tips for first-time travelers

• Book gorilla permits well in advance and plan the rest of your itinerary around permit availability.

• Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing plus a waterproof jacket, layered clothing for cool mountain mornings, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, and sunscreen.

• Respect local customs and memorial sites; learn a few phrases in Kinyarwanda (hello: “Muraho”)