Leslie Nelson
Overland Park, KS
Luxury and Ultra Luxury Travel Agent Specialist
With a wealth of experience spanning the entire spectrum of travel, I now specialize in curating the ultimate luxury and ultra-luxury experiences. Need a private jet, a lavish villa, or a majestic yacht? Consider it done.
Just retired after...Learn more about me.
With a wealth of experience spanning the entire spectrum of travel, I now specialize in curating the ultimate luxury and ultra-luxury experiences. Need a private jet, a lavish villa, or a majestic yacht? Consider it done.
Just retired after decades of hard work? How about a globe-trotting adventure on a private jet, or a sun-soaked summer in a Tuscan villa with your family and friends streaming in and out?
In need of a break from the grind? Imagine a week of rejuvenation at a serene yoga retreat in the Himalayas or unwinding at what I consider the best day spa in the world, right in Dubai.
In my process I take the time to understand your unique preferences and craft personalized itineraries that go beyond your wildest dreams. My mantra? Everything’s possible as long as it’s legal, ethical, and kind. Let’s create something extraordinary together.
Can Be Reached At
1-913-689-0549
Rwanda Travel Agent Expert 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.
My Reviews
Custom tour takes all the hassle out of traveling
Leslie helped me craft a personal tour in Costa Rica, with excellent accommodations, activities and transport. Her advice was invaluable in helping me decide how and where to spend my time, and her travel partners in the US and on the ground provided fantastic and seamless service.
By
Margaret M
from
Portland Oregon USA
Traveled to
Costa Rica | Central America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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she is the best and has friendly communication and knows how to interact
By
benesasar
from
cancum
Traveled to
Cancun | Quintana Roo | Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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I was on a trip a friend booked and unable to get back home due to a blizzard. I knew Leslie and called her- she was able to help me quickly secure a hotel near my airport and get me situated for another night!
By
Sullivanaxid
from
Overland Park, KS
Traveled to
New York (La Guardia) | New York | USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Our Italian trip of a lifetime!
Leslie was awesome and we put her through a lot. She planned a custom trip to Italy (Venice, Florence, Sorrento, Pompeii, Capri,Amalfi,Positano & Rome) for our family group of 11 and it was spot on! She booked all hotels, tours and transportation and it all went smoothly. We were all very happy with the outcome. She provided a lot of expertise and made key recommendations on hotel locations and tours that made our trip run smoothly. She was always available and I felt very confident in her guidance and advice. She's now planning our next family trip to Greece!
By
dd311
from
Delray Beach, FL
Traveled to
Italy | Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Tropical north Queesland, a dream destination
We wanted to get to Queensland before the Olympics makes it too crowded. Leslie knows the area and helped arrange a tour of the "best of the best" hotels in northeastern Australia. Can't say enough about how great this trip was.
By
Reef, rainforest and Outback travelers
from
Los Angeles, CA
Traveled to
Australia & New Zealand
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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