Best known for its gorilla trekking opportunities and spectacular natural beauty, Rwanda is a sought-after destination for safari enthusiasts from around the world. But there is so much more to this experience than viewing wildlife and enjoying the views.
A Rwanda safari holiday is not just a journey through a breathtaking landscape; it’s also a journey of self-discovery and a reconnection with the natural world. If you go in with an open mind, there are so many incredible lessons to be learned.
From the art of slowing down and simply observing to the health benefits of interconnectedness with nature, it’s time to uncover what you could look forward to when embarking on a safari getaway to Rwanda.
This blog post explores the profound yet often subtle life lessons gleaned from a Rwandan safari experience. We’ll move beyond the mere observation of wildlife to delve into the deeper philosophical and emotional takeaways.
Slowing Down and Observing
Most people’s everyday lives are fast-paced, filled with commuting to work, going to meetings, preparing food, socialising, and a plethora of menial tasks like laundry and replying to emails.
When you arrive in Rwanda, you will notice that the pace is a lot slower than in Western countries, especially if you’re out in the wilderness. It may feel strange at first, and you may find it difficult to adapt. However, you’ll soon master the art of slowing down and observing your surroundings.
These skills are definitely going to come in handy when it comes to gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park. Patience will go a long way as you spend the majority of the day hiking through the forest, looking for a glimpse of the elusive mountain gorillas.
Slowing down and observing will also help you notice the little things along the way, such as a butterfly flitting through the foliage, the way sunlight streams through the canopy of trees, and small buds that are just about to bloom.
Interconnectedness
Recent studies have shown that those who have a better relationship with nature tend to have happier lives overall. A Rwanda safari provides the ideal opportunity to boost your interconnectedness with nature as you’ll get to spend time in ‘high-quality’ natural areas, be surrounded by fresh air, and learn more about different species.
Some of the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature include:
- Reduce feelings of stress and anxiety
- Boost memory and general cognition
- Improve concentration and attentiveness
- Increased feelings of belonging
- Improved sleep.
Adapting is Essential
While on your safari holiday, you’re going to see a wide variety of animals adapting to their environment with ease. Your knowledgeable guide will most likely go into detail about camouflage, migration, hibernation, and social adaptions.
We can really learn so much from these wild animals, especially when we look at adaptation as a means of survival. Sometimes, life throws us curveballs, and one of the only ways to get through it is to adapt. Changing our ways isn’t easy, but it can open new doors and create opportunities for personal growth.
It’s Sometimes the Simple Things That Matter Most
No matter who you are, it is very unlikely that the best part about your Rwandan holiday will be the luxury linen at your hotel or a meal in a fine-dining restaurant. Our bet is that some of your most treasured memories of the trip will include things like deepening your relationship with your travel companions, watching the sunrise over the savannah, and looking up at the stars as you sit around a campfire.
It’s these simple memories that are going to stay in your heart, so soak them up as you live in the moment. Connect with the people around you and take some time out for yourself. When you take joy in the simple things, you’re sure to lead a happier life.
Respect the Balance
In nature, balance is essential. If one aspect or species is out of place, it can bring down an entire ecosystem. Rwanda has made huge efforts towards conservation, especially when it comes to protecting the mountain gorillas and their natural habitats. Respecting the balance of nature ensures the species’ survival for future generations.
Observing how everything in nature is connected can give us a greater respect for the balance in our own lives. Yes, it can be difficult to balance our careers, hobbies, and relationships, but you need to find some sort of balance if you want to live a content and fulfilled life.
Practicing Gratitude
So often, we take things for granted, but spending time in nature reminds us just how precious life is. Whether it’s a fly that’s being eaten by a treefrog or a treefrog that’s fallen prey to a snake, death is a constant in the rainforest. By remembering that death is a reality of life, we can become more grateful for each day that we have on this earth.
If you’re new to practising gratitude, Rwanda provides the perfect place to start. With its peaceful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views, you’ll find so many things to be thankful for.
The Power of Community
In the Western world, there is immense value placed on individualism. So much so that we can often feel very disconnected from those around us, even our neighbours. But Rwanda still maintains a strong sense of community, no matter where you go.
Whether you are visiting a village or exploring a national park, you’ll undoubtedly notice how friendly and accommodating the locals are. Conservationists, local guides, and village people all work together to preserve the country’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Embrace the Unknown
Deciding to visit Rwanda and embrace everything it has to offer is a bold move, especially if you’ve never been to Africa before. Trying out new activities like canoeing, biking, hiking, and gorilla trekking is sure to open up new neural pathways and present you with the opportunity to try new things.
Whether it be discovering a hidden waterfall, stargazing with your travel companions, or trying the local cuisine, each day of your trip is sure to be an adventure. Embracing the unknown can be scary, but it’s almost always worth it!
Taking the Lessons Home
Taking the lessons learned on your Rwanda safari back home with you is sure to improve your overall quality of life and provide you with valuable insight into the deeper meanings of life. Our suggestion is to bring a journal with you on your trip. This way, you can record your thoughts and feelings, highlighting any lessons you feel to be meaningful for you.
Everyday life at home can be stressful, and it is easy to feel as though you have lost your way. If you are ever feeling down, confused, or anxious, you can reach for your journal and remind yourself of the many incredible lessons you learned during your time in Rwanda.
Are you thinking of planning a Rwanda safari holiday but aren’t too sure where to start? With so many incredible national parks and accommodation options, it can be difficult to plan the perfect itinerary. But that’s where Tailormade Africa comes in. Our travel experts take the time to understand your likes, dislikes, budget, and preferences when planning your dream trip to Rwanda. Contact Tailormade to get started.
