Rwanda Travel Agent Expert

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Leslie Nelson, Travel Agent in Overland Park, KS

Leslie Nelson

Overland Park, KS Travel Agent
Super Agent

Leslie Nelson

Overland Park, KS · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
(25)
100% Recommended
Leslie has a way of nailing down the perfect trip for us. Her knowledge of vacation destinations is vast, and the hotels and excursions she has... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Rwanda, Kigali, Butare, Gisenyl, Africa

Interests:

Animals & Wildlife, Safari, Photography, Hiking & Backpacking, Nature

About Me

Rwanda, often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is a captivating destination that blends breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. This East African gem has transformed itself into one of the continent's most stunning and welcoming nations, offering travelers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda's capital, known for its cleanliness, vibrant culture, and safety. After landing at Kigali International Airport, you'll be greeted with warm smiles and a pleasant climate. Spend the day exploring the city’s highlights, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides a moving and educational insight into Rwanda's tragic past and the country's remarkable recovery. Stroll through the lively markets, like Kimironko, to experience local life and pick up traditional crafts. Enjoy a delightful meal at a local restaurant, where you can try Rwandan dishes like brochettes, ugali, and the fresh tilapia fish from Lake Kivu.

Day 2: Volcanoes National Park - Gorilla Trekking An early morning drive takes you to Volcanoes National Park, home to the iconic mountain gorillas. The drive itself is a visual treat, with rolling green hills, small villages, and terraced farms lining the route. Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any trip to Rwanda; the experience is both exhilarating and humbling. After a briefing with your guide, you'll embark on a hike through dense forests to find one of the habituated gorilla families. Spend an hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat—a profound experience that creates memories to last a lifetime.In the evening, relax at your lodge near the park, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Virunga Mountains.

Day 3: Golden Monkeys and Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village Start your day with a trek to see the golden monkeys, another rare primate species found in the park. These playful creatures are known for their vibrant fur and acrobatic movements among the bamboo trees. The trek is less demanding than gorilla trekking but equally rewarding.In the afternoon, visit the Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can immerse yourself in Rwandan traditions. Enjoy traditional dances, learn about the rituals of Rwandan kings, and try your hand at activities like archery. It's a fantastic way to connect with local culture and contribute to community-based tourism.

Day 4: Lake Kivu - Beachside RelaxationAfter your wildlife adventures, head to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s great lakes, known for its pristine waters and beautiful beaches. Gisenyi, a charming town on the lake's shores, is a perfect place to unwind. Spend your day relaxing by the water, swimming, or kayaking. The surrounding hills offer stunning views, and the sunsets over the lake are breathtaking.Take a boat ride to explore the nearby islands or visit local coffee plantations to learn about Rwanda's burgeoning coffee industry, famous for its high-quality Arabica beans.

Day 5: Nyungwe Forest National Park - Canopy Walk and Chimpanzee TrekkingTravel to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, renowned for its biodiversity. Begin with the canopy walk—a suspended bridge high above the forest floor, offering incredible views of the lush treetops and a chance to spot monkeys and birds.The next day, set out early for a chimpanzee trek. The forest is alive with the sounds of nature, and seeing chimpanzees in the wild is both thrilling and enlightening. Nyungwe is also home to several hiking trails that showcase waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and endemic plant species.

Day 6: Akagera National Park - Safari AdventureRound off your Rwandan adventure with a safari in Akagera National Park. This park, located on the eastern border with Tanzania, features a blend of savannah, lakes, and wetlands, making it a unique destination for wildlife viewing. Akagera is home to the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos—as well as a rich variety of other animals, including zebras, giraffes, and hippos. Enjoy game drives and a boat safari on Lake Ihema to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a wide array of birdlife.

Day 7: Return to Kigali and DepartureReturn to Kigali for some last-minute shopping and a final taste of the local cuisine before heading to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your journey through Rwanda, a country that blends natural beauty, wildlife, and warm hospitality in a way few places on earth can match.Tips for TravelersBest Visa Requirements: Most visitors require a visa, which can be easily obtained online or on arrival.Health Precautions: Yellow fever vaccination is recommended, and malaria prophylaxis is advised.Rwanda is more than just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Africa’s beauty and resilience. From intimate wildlife encounters to the warmth of its people, Rwanda offers a travel experience that’s both enriching and unforgettable. 

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
25 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 25 reviews

Professional Service with a Personal Touch
Reviewed By Jody & Marty - Solon, Iowa | Traveled to Danube ~ On the River ~ At Sea
Leslie has a way of nailing down the perfect trip for us. Her knowledge of vacation destinations is vast, and the hotels and excursions she has hooked us up with have been first rate. She's professional, incredibly informed and is keenly aware that one size does not fit all. I appreciate that most of all. At her suggestion we recently took a Danube River cruise on the Scenic Amber. It was first rate. Scenic is a fabulous experience. We met great people and had a wonderful time. We saw beautiful cities along the Danube and, again at her suggestion, did a pre-cruise extension in Prague. It was simply wonderful. I whole-heartedly recommend Leslie. Give her a call for your next trip!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Les is More !!
Reviewed By Les is More - Reno NV | Traveled to Caribbean Sea | At Sea | At Sea
From Booking the Airline travel, pre cruise hotel stay, booking on Windstar, securing the onboard credits and all inclusive package while aboard, Les came through for our group with minimal drama!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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We felt like veteran cruisers
Reviewed By GKP - Kansas City MO | Traveled to Caribbean Sea | At Sea | At Sea
Leslie was a pleasure to work with on every aspect of our awesome cruise trip from start to finish! This was our very first cruise and she gave us all the help and information we needed. We always knew what to expect and what was happening. We felt like veteran cruisers thanks to her help. She is now our travel agent for any future trips ??
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Sailing Adventure
Reviewed By Jane1 - Florida, Ontario | Traveled to Caribbean Sea | At Sea | At Sea
Three friends from two countries decided to sail the Caribbean last winter. It was a bit complicated to arrange when dealing with two different currencies and schedules. Leslie handled these travel arrangements with courtesy and confidence. She made recommendations for hotels and leisure prior to boarding. She sent a full daily itinerary with photos of how the cruise would roll out. We knew we were in capable hands from the time we initiated the request for travel help to the end of the trip. And she apportioned the expenses appropriately guiding us what was highly recommended and what was optional. We could not have done this on our own. Another trip is brewing in my mind and she will organize it for us. Thank you Leslie
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Awesome Cruise Experience
Reviewed By TravelMorein26 - Chattanooga, TN | Traveled to Caribbean Sea | At Sea | At Sea
Leslie helped us plan a cruise to the Caribbean for Thanksgiving. There were 18 people in our group and she made the process so smooth and seamless for us. All we had to do was pay the fare by the due date. It doesn’t get much easier than that.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

Client Testimonials

Vendor Approved!
I have had the privilege of working with Leslie over the past year, and she has consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a genuine dedication to her clients. Leslie not only delivers exactly what she promises — she does so with exceptional attention to detail and a collaborative spirit that makes her an absolute pleasure to work with. Her deep product knowledge and ability to translate that into meaningful travel experiences for her clients make her a trusted and respected partner in the luxury travel space. Beyond her professional competence, Leslie’s warmth, responsiveness, and reliability make every interaction smooth and enjoyable. In short, Leslie embodies the qualities that define the very best in our industry — credibility, creativity, and partnership. I wholeheartedly endorse her continued membership in the Luxury Leaders Alliance. Warm regards, Luigi Nappo CEO
Luigi Nappo, Italy
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