With its picturesque landscapes, well-maintained roads, awe-inspiring infrastructure, and incredibly hospitable people, you find yourself in the Republic of Rwanda. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, this landlocked gem stands at the crossroads of the African Great Lakes region and Southeast Africa.Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ Rwanda is not just a destination; it’s an experience that blends stunning natural beauty with a complex history and a bright future.As we embarked on our journey from Doha with RwandAir, we were immediately greeted by the unmistakable warmth of Rwandan hospitality. The atmosphere was charged with optimism, reflecting a nation that has triumphed over its tumultuous past. Although global headlines surrounding the Marburg virus had caused some concern, RDB and the Rwandan health department reassured us of a safe and enriching FAM trip. Media representatives from around the world—spanning Qatar, Canada, France, Kenya, and Ethiopia—had gathered for this week-long adventure, offering us a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in one of Africa's cleanest and safest nations.A Complex History: The beauty of Rwanda is starkly juxtaposed with its tragic past. The country’s history is marred by the 1994 genocide, where nearly one million people lost their lives in a brutal conflict fueled by ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. For around 100 days, the world stood by as horrific violence unfolded. The genocide serves as a painful reminder of humanity's capacity for cruelty, yet Rwanda has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to heal. The people of Rwanda have chosen a path of coexistence, aiming for progress and unity despite the lingering scars of history.Kigali Genocide Memorial: One of the most poignant experiences during our visit was the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Located in the capital city, this powerful tribute honours the nearly one million Tutsi and moderate Hutu victims of the genocide. Established in 2004, the memorial includes mass graves where over 250,000 victims are buried. Walking through the exhibits, we were struck by the detailed historical narratives that revealed the root causes and consequences of the genocide. Photographs, artifacts, and survivor testimonies provided a sobering insight into the events that unfolded, emphasizing the vital need for tolerance, unity, and peace.One of the most heart-wrenching sections was the children's room, memorializing young victims and the innocence that was lost. The memorial's purpose extends beyond remembrance; it promotes peacebuilding and reconciliation in Rwanda. Managed by the Aegis Trust, the memorial advocates for global awareness against hate and prejudice, echoing the solemn pledge of “Never Again.”Campaign Against Genocide Museum: Another significant site was the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, situated at the Parliament Building in Kigali. This museum honours the heroic efforts of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) in stopping the genocide. Here, we learned about the resistance and resilience that characterized the RPF’s actions, led by current Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The exhibits detailed the events leading to the genocide and the international community's apathy during those dark days.A particularly evocative feature of the museum is the ‘Tunnel of Escape,’ which preserved a secret route used by RPF soldiers to navigate Kigali during the chaos. This tangible connection to history deepened our understanding of the conditions faced by those who fought to protect civilians. Through this museum, Rwanda communicates a powerful message of resilience and unity while educating future generations about the dangers of hatred and violence.Imbuga City Walk: Beyond the memorials, Rwanda's capital is a vibrant hub of life and culture. Imbuga City Walk, a beautifully landscaped urban space in Kigali, is designed for leisure and social interaction. As we strolled along the well-maintained paths surrounded by lush greenery, we felt a sense of tranquility wash over us. The walk often hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances, showcasing Rwandan heritage and fostering community engagement.Project Manager John Claude Niyibizi shared the vision behind Imbuga City Walk: “This project aims to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Kigali. By minimizing traffic and integrating green spaces, we’re not only improving the environment but also fostering a healthier and more enjoyable community space.”The walk is more than just a recreational area; it symbolizes Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability and urban development.Nyamirambo Women’s Center: Another remarkable aspect of Rwanda’s resilience is evident in community initiatives like the Nyamirambo Women’s Center (NWC). Established in 2007, this organization empowers women through vocational training, literacy classes, and entrepreneurship support. The center not only focuses on skill-building but also provides health education on reproductive health and nutrition, addressing the needs of women in the community.Visitors to the NWC can participate in guided tours of the Nyamirambo neighbourhood, which not only promotes local culture but also generates income to sustain the centre's activities. This initiative is a testament to the spirit of solidarity and empowerment among Rwandan women.Nyandungu Eco Park: For those seeking a natural escape, Nyandungu Eco Park offers a serene environment in Kigali, promoting environmental conservation and community well-being. Covering approximately 121 hectares, the park features walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and diverse habitats, from wetlands to forests. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while learning about the importance of sustainability.The park also plays a significant role in promoting eco-tourism, attracting both locals and visitors. Its commitment to enhancing quality of life aligns with Rwanda’s broader environmental initiatives.Canopy walk experience, located in the lush Nyungwe Forest National Park, offers an unforgettable adventure amid the treetops. This 160-meter-long walkway, suspended 70 meters above the forest floor, provides stunning panoramic views of one of Africa's oldest rainforests. Visitors can expect an exhilarating journey with sightings of diverse wildlife, including rare primates like chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, along with vibrant bird species unique to the region. The walk offers a rare perspective of Rwanda's pristine natural beauty, making it a must-do activity for eco-tourists and adventure seekers exploring the country’s rich landscapes.Gato Keza Coffee Experience: Rwanda's rich coffee culture is celebrated through initiatives like the Gato Keza Coffee Experience. This unique tour allows visitors to experience the coffee-making process, from farm to cup. Participants engage in guided tours of coffee plantations, learning about sustainable farming practices and the socio-economic impact of coffee production on local communities.The experience includes coffee tastings, where we savoured the distinctive flavours of Rwandan coffee, known for its bright acidity and rich profile. This blend of coffee culture and traditional Rwandan hospitality creates an enriching experience that highlights the significance of coffee in the nation’s economy.Ellen DeGeneres Campus for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund: No visit to Rwanda would be complete without acknowledging its incredible wildlife. The Ellen DeGeneres Campus for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, located in Musanze, serves as a central hub for mountain gorilla conservation. Opened in 2020, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to research, education, and community engagement.Visitors can participate in educational programs and guided tours, gaining insights into the lives of mountain gorillas and the ongoing conservation efforts. The campus embodies Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife protection and sustainable tourism, fostering a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures.Trekking in search of gorillasRwanda is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and extraordinary wildlife, but nothing rivals the thrill of trekking to see the majestic mountain gorillas. These incredible creatures, known for their intelligence and complex social structures, attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world.Mountain gorillas are one of two subspecies of the eastern gorilla, the other being the eastern lowland gorilla. They inhabit the misty forests of the Virunga Mountains, which stretch across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With a population of around 1,063 (according to the most recent census), mountain gorillas are classified as endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and poaching.Adult male mountain gorillas typically weigh between 160 to 220kg, while females usually weigh between 70 to 113kg. When standing upright, males can reach heights of 4.5 to 6 feet. Their broad shoulders and muscular bodies are a sight to behold, especially with their thick, black fur that helps them adapt to the cooler climates of their mountainous habitat. Males are particularly striking with their silver backs, which emerge around the age of 12, marking their maturity.Mountain gorillas are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, stems, fruits, and flowers. Their diet varies with the seasons, allowing them to adapt to the availability of food sources. Equipped with strong jaws and teeth, they can chew tough vegetation, and their digestive systems are well-suited for processing fibrous plant material. Remarkably, an adult mountain gorilla can consume up to 20kg of vegetation daily, spending about 30% of their day feeding, mostly in the early morning and late afternoon.Trekking to see mountain gorillas is an unforgettable adventure, typically starting in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. A trekking permit is essential to visit the gorillas, and it’s advisable to book well in advance due to limited availability, as only 96 permits are issued per day. The fees collected from permits contribute to conservation efforts and support local communities.When preparing for the trek, proper gear is crucial. Sturdy hiking boots, long pants, a rain jacket, and gloves are highly recommended, along with a walking stick for navigating the uneven terrain.Led by experienced guides, trekking expeditions prioritize safety while providing fascinating insights into gorilla behaviour. Depending on the group assigned, the trek can last a few hours as you navigate through dense forests and steep hills. The excitement of finally encountering a family of gorillas makes every step worthwhile. Upon locating a gorilla group, you have the opportunity to observe them for an hour, witnessing their interactions—grooming, playing, and engaging in social behaviours that reveal their intricate social structures.As our guide, Daniel, explained, “These mountain gorillas can live up to 35 to 40 years in the wild, and some have even been known to live longer in captivity. The gestation period for females is about 8.5 months, similar to that of humans.” He added that gorillas experience different developmental stages, with females typically beginning to reproduce around eight years of age and males transitioning into the ‘silverback’ stage by age 12.Rwanda has made remarkable strides in gorilla conservation, contributing to a steady increase in their population. Initiatives such as anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community engagement programs play vital roles in these efforts. By visiting the gorillas, tourists directly support these initiatives, promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both wildlife and local communities.Trekking in search of gorillas in Rwanda offers a unique opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most endangered species. Beyond the adventure, it fosters a deeper understanding of conservation's importance and the intricate ecosystems that support these magnificent animals. As you traverse the stunning landscapes of Rwanda, the chance to witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat becomes a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression.
