Rwanda is a tiny country lying between Uganda and Tanzania. There, now that you know where Rwanda is, here’s why it should be your next holiday destination.

The Big Five is The Big Six in Rwanda. In addition to the lion, the black rhinoceros, the elephant, the leopard and the cape buffalo, Rwanda has the mountain gorilla. With only an estimated 880 gorillas left in the world, to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unique moment. Trek and stay with them for an awe-inspiring time, often crouching just a few feet away, whilst the gorillas go about their daily lives.

With nearly 700 species in just 10,000 square miles, Rwanda is a also a birder’s paradise. Highlights include the Red-Faced Barbet, Shoebill Stork, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Papyrus Gonolek and the Miombo Wren-Warblers. Reason enough for birders to pack their field glasses, cameras and log books.