Dicey to Desirable

However, due to Rwanda’s dark recent history, tourists are understandably wary. Completely off-limits during the civil bloodshed of the mid-nineties, it is now really opening up and intrepid tourists are showing increasing interest. But make no mistake – this is still very much an adventure… of the right sort.

You’ll spend your days exploring extinct volcanoes, traipsing through murky swamps and following in the tracks of the mighty Silverback and his harem of females. For something a little more chilled, spend a couple of lazy days bathing in the Africa of days gone by on the stunning shores of Lake Kivu. At night, bed down at a new eco-lodge in the foothills of the Virunga Volcano, where you can sit and look out over King Kong’s spectacular kingdom.

Bogota

Despite its obvious charms, ten years ago Colombia had completely slipped off the tourist trail due to its security issues. There was constant news of fighting between government forces, left-wing guerrillas, narcotraffickers and right-wing paramilitaries – not to mention the occasional bomb in the city centres. Even today if you say you’re off to Bogota for your hols you’re likely get a few raised eyebrows from people who are probably picturing a coke-choked capital where you’d need a 24hr security presence.

Okay, so the FCO still recommends steering clear of certain parts of Colombia, but Bogota is a place that has really outrun the stereotypes and transformed into a seriously up-and-coming spot. La Candalaria is a lovely area with museums and landmarks, like Plaza Bolivar, giving visitors a wonderful flavour of the city's history. At night you can hang out with locals in the vibrant bars and clubs of Parque 93, or have a relaxing drink in the pretty church square of Usaquen.

Also make time to venture out to Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial town with whitewashed buildings, characteristic dark green balconies and cobbled streets. With the perfect mix of edginess and energy, arts and culture, Bogota’s secret star is set to rise – and the great news is its doors are opening to travellers wanting to appreciate its untouched charms firsthand.