When visiting Rwanda, it is impossible not to see and learn about the impact of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. While this is a remarkably moving experience, it is at the same time surprising uplifting, as you will experience firsthand how the people of Rwanda have moved forward together positively and are an example to the world of a success story in peace and reconciliation.
Kigali Genocide Memorial Gisozi
Rwanda is committed to fighting the ideology of genocide. The memorials found throughout the country are moving testimonies in memory of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Inaugurated on the 10th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is where 259,000 victims have been buried. The memorial also serves to educate about genocide around the world in the 20th Century.
Volcanoes National Park
This is a gateway to see mountain gorillas when you visit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park on a self-drive holiday. Situated in the far northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park protects the steep slopes of this magnificent mountain range home of the endangered mountain gorilla and rich mosaic of montane ecosystems, which embrace evergreen ad bamboo forest, open grassland, swamp and heath.
Within the boundaries of Volcanoes National Park are Buhanga Eco Park, an ancient forest holding Rwanda’s most intriguing folklore and Musanze Caves, formed 62 million years ago after the last estimated volcanic eruption.
Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi the highest at 4507m, Bisoke with its verdant Crater Lake, Sabyinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura.
Gorilla and Golden Monkey Tracking Experience
The gorilla trekking tours through the mysterious intimacy of the rain forest, alive with the calls of colourful birds and chattering of the rare golden monkey, is only one of the truly unique and magical experiences in the area. Hiking, canoeing, mountain biking and village experiences offer something for everyone to enjoy.
The day starts by going to Kinigi headquarters where you are put into your groups. Traditional dancers start the show. After their show they pass around a plate for a donation. Luckily you leave here on the Golden Monkey trek too so we had a chance to make a donation then so remember to bring a donation with you.
We walked for about an hour before we got into the park and then must have walked for another hour. Its very exciting when you get to the spot where the gorillas are and at this stage you hand all your belongings, besides camera, to the porters or guides. It is best to have a porter no matter how fit you are. You are helping the community by hiring them and they are helpful when you get to a steep bit. The gorillas were magnificent.
The next day we went to the monkeys. We happened to start from the same place as I started the day before as the monkeys are in the same part of the forest. It is a very easy walk to the monkeys and we had fantastic sightings. The monkeys are very beautiful. It is not necessary to have a porter for this but once again, it is nice to help the community.
Hike to Diana Fossey Tomb
You start at the Volcanoes national park at 7am for sign in, free hot drink on arrival and there is a great atmosphere as everyone gathers for their respective hikes or gorilla trips. Once there you need to self-drive or your driver about 30 minutes to the trail start in a beautiful rural town on the volcano side. The last 15 minutes are real off road, walking pace speed crawling over boulders and rocks, a 4×4 is absolutely mandatory as our Land cruiser was perfectly capable.
The hike starts in farm land and rises quickly and steeply to the park entrance. Once inside a gate you will collect your military escort and begin the amazing walk inside the ethereal misty forest. Expect another steep section that flattens out to deep mud and bog in wet season, be careful not to lose your shoes. Once at the top the camp itself is relatively unassuming but its poignant and interesting to see.
We did not see gorilla but we did get stopped by large mountain buffalo and our soldier escort stepped in to move them on (very dangerous animals). Overall a fab experience, would not recommend if totally unfit or inexperienced in hiking, the altitude is significant (3500m) and at points it is constant climbing. That said, as an averagely fit 30 something it was not so hard and the 70+Yr old hiker in our group managed just fine! A great way to experience the national park.
IbyI’wacu cultural tours
This place is commonly referred to as the Gorilla Guardians Village. Allegedly because it gave former Gorilla poachers a better job. The cultural performances performed here are good fun, especially the wedding ceremony and the traditional dances. You can also be dressed up as a Rwandan king or queen (if you are not too worried about cultural appropriation). We went there as female traveler- felt so welcomed and enjoyed every minute! A total hands on learning experience and A must do if you’re in Rwanda.
Visit to the twin lakes
We visited the resort for 2 nights. Despite our very late arrival the boat was waiting for us to pick us up. When we came to the resort the fire was nice and warm to sit around and they even served us dinner (23:00) the rooms are typical Africa, it was really fancy and a bit outdated but the staff is the location and the unbelievable views make up for that. Great value for money! Highly recommend
