Hiking experiences

Hell's Gate may sound ominous but this other-worldly place makes for an adventurous and epic safari. Named after the gas plumes and bubbling hot springs, a trip here can include hiking into the highlands to see the bearded vulture in full flight or rock climbing towering cliff faces (adrenaline junkies, we're looking at you) and simply marvelling at your steamy, volcanic surrounds. Despite its name, Hell's Gate also has plenty of grassy plains and the game viewing is fantastic. Spot herds of buffalo, zebra and Thomson's gazelle, gangly giraffe chomping on leaves and cheetah sniffing the air for lunch.

In the location of the real-life Gorillas in the Mist, spend a poignant morning trekking to the resting place of Dian Fossey and the ruins of her research centre. Led by your experienced guide, this hike pays homage to a pioneer of gorilla discovery and conservation. As you trek through miles of craggy trails and forested foothills - the smoky silhouettes of far-off volcanoes as your constant view, learn how Fossey forged the relationship between humans and apes, chronicled their lives and social habits, and worked to preserve their future. Hidden away between the Bisoke and Karisambi volcanoes, and sitting at 3000 m above sea level, you'll visit the grave site of Fossey's favourite gorillas laid beside her own, which refers to her locally-given name, Nyiramachabelli - 'the woman who lives alone in the mountains'. For the easiest conditions, the best time to visit is the dry season, between June and September.

Stride out on to one of the nature trails that wind around huge granite boulders, confident in the knowledge that there are no venomous snakes or dangerous animals on the island. Walk through woodlands of baobab, fig, mahogany and miombo trees and enjoy the views out over the lake.