The small country of Rwanda in the heart of Africa is slowly regaining its reputation as a wonderful place to travel. Its size of just 26,388 km (smaller than Vancouver Island) and efficient road system make its main attractions easily accessible. The government has also managed to bring a remarkable level of stability to the country in the past eleven years.

Rwanda can be broken up into three distinct areas, with the capital, Kigali , strategically located in the heart of the country. The volcanic Northwest features one of the last remnants of the famous mountain gorillas. The mountainous Southwest features Nyungwe Forest and the sparkling waters of Lake Kivu. The rolling plains of Eastern Rwanda feature Akagera National Park.

Do not expect a trip to Rwanda to be the 'classic' safari expedition. There are people nearly everywhere and each one of them will be as curious of you as you are of their country. When you come to Rwanda, you'll be filled with wonder. You'll wonder if there is even one flat area in the whole country. You'll wonder how a place so beautiful could have such a tragic history. You will wonder at how the people manage to cultivate even the steepest cliff. You'll wonder how they possibly can carry so many things on their heads and bikes. You'll wonder if the 700 remaining mountain gorillas will survive the population growth. You'll wonder what the future holds for Rwanda. And hopefully you will be compelled to be a part of it.

This section was compiled by Benjamin Schrag.  BJ also took many of the beautiful landscape photos in the gallery.