RWANDA

Hills, Volcanoes and History

A small landlocked country in East Africa, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and tragic history. The country’s nickname is the “land of a thousand hills” due to its highly elevated terrain, characterized by rolling hills and valleys.

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The Inema Arts Center celebrates contemporary African art. It features vibrant paintings, sculptures, and installations by local artists.
Rwanda’s lush green mountains, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys create a breathtaking panorama. The country’s topography is characterized by its numerous hills, which give it the nickname. Rwanda is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, including incredible wildlife living.
This powerful memorial commemorates the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. It provides insights into the tragic events and honors those who lost their lives. A visit here is essential to understand Rwanda’s history and resilience
The Hôtel des Mille Collines gained worldwide recognition during the Rwandan genocide of 1994.

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The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this period, wildlife viewing is at its prime, making it ideal for gorilla trekking. The forest trails are less slippery, and there’s more sunshine. However, if you want to track chimpanzees, consider visiting during the rainy seasons (March to May and June to September) when they are more active.

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Here are some must-do attractions:

Volcanoes National Park: Known for its majestic mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit. You can embark on gorilla treks and witness these incredible creatures up close. Additionally, explore the Batwa Trail and hike Mount Muhabura for stunning views.

Inema Art Center: A vibrant hub for contemporary Rwandan art, showcasing local talent and creativity in Kigali.

Kigali Genocide Memorial: A poignant site that commemorates the 1994 genocide, providing historical context and honoring the victims.

Kigali City Tower: An iconic skyscraper with shopping, dining, and panoramic views of the city.

Lake Kivu: Relax on the shores of this beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by lush hills and picturesque landscapes.

Akagera National Park: Explore diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife, and enjoy boat safaris along the Akagera River.

Kimironko Market: Immerse yourself in local culture at this bustling market in Kigali, where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and more.

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Here are some must-try foods:

Isombe: This dish appears like spinach but is made from boiled and pounded cassava leaves. It’s often combined with vegetables like onions, leeks, eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers. A spoonful of peanut butter and a drizzle of oil hold it all together. Isombe is popular, especially when served with rice or porridge.

Matoke: Bananas are a staple in Rwandan cuisine. Matoke, green and unripe bananas, have a potato-like consistency when cooked. They’re commonly added to soups, stews, and wraps.

Igisafuria: Meaning “pot” in the native language, this dish features ingredients cooked together in a single pot. Usually based on chicken, it’s topped with onions, tomatoes, and celery chunks. Variations exist across different regions of Rwanda.

Brochettes: Rwandans savor meat, and brochettes are a sizzling favorite. These skewered and grilled meat dishes are a delightful treat.

Ugali: A staple in East Africa, ugali is a simple dish made from maize flour and water. It’s similar to polenta and is often served as a side with stews or grilled meats.

Urwagwa: A traditional Rwandan beer made from bananas.

Ikivuguto: A fermented milk drink.

Icyayi: Rwandan tea or coffee.

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Here are some essential travel tips to keep in mind:

Currency: The Rwandan franc (RWF) is the currency of Rwanda. As of the last update on May 17, 2024, 1 US Dollar (USD) is equivalent to approximately 1,295.87 Rwandan Francs.

Safety: Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa and ranks 9th globally in safety. You’re more likely to get shot in America than face any danger in Rwanda. The friendly locals and visible security personnel make it a comfortable destination.

Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance, especially if you plan to go gorilla trekking. The terrain can be challenging, and having coverage for medical emergencies or gear damage is essential.

City Names: Understand the city name situation. Some cities have been renamed, so be bilingual when referring to them. For example, Kibuye (old) is now Karongi, and Gisenyi (old) is Rubavu.

Read Up: Dive into guidebooks or watch movies like “Shooting Dogs” and “Hotel Rwanda” to learn more about the country’s history and culture.

Responsible Tourism: Support local businesses, respect the environment, and leave no trace behind.
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