Rwanda Eco-Tourism

Rwanda is located in central Africa and has a lot of history and natural beauty. There are many interesting sights to see, with many guided tours to choose from. Each tour group is led by an experienced guide that specializes in teaching others about the landscape and wildlife of Rwanda. There are expeditions to places like volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests which are home to many different African animals. Rwanda is home to a hugely diverse population of animals including gorillas and the largest natural park for Hippos – some 20,000 are believed to be there. Although, Rwanda is still a developing country it has quite a few hotels, and its new international interest in tourism is giving it a comeback.

Eco-Tourism in Rwanda is rapidly increasing since the genocide that took place in 1994. In 2010, 666 000 tourists visited the country. This resulted in tourism revenues of 200m $, an increase of 14 % over 2009. Plastic bags are banned in Rwanda, and tourists are warned not to bring them to the country.

Rwanda Eco-Tourism

TWIN LAKES

Lakes Burera and Ruhondo, close to the gorilla-tracking center of Musanze, are often neglected gems. People living around Rwanda’s many lakes try to make a living out of what these lakes have to offer. There is a group of local people who use traditional fishing methods at the twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo. The work is carried out either from the lake shore or from self-made traditional canoes that consist of a single piece of wood.

Visit an island, where you will get a boat or dugout canoe ride to the respective island in lakes Ruhondo and Burera. Enjoy the nice scenery and excellent birding opportunities. Bring a packed lunch and have a picnic on the island. Discover nature in traditional canoes and enjoy. There is also Lake Nyarakigugu and Kirago which is located between Rubavu and Musanze districts.

The Rugezi Swamp

This is a drowned valley composed of old metamorphic rocks and forms a part of the Buberuka Highlands.

This rounded hill Swamp has been recognized as one of Rwanda’s IBA’s (Important Birding Area). The other IBA in the area is the Volcanoes National Park.

Eco tourism in Rwanda

The swamp is home to a number of sought-after birds, one of these being Grauer’s Swamp-warbler who has taken a nest here.

Buhanga Eco-Park

This is a small patch of the forest 8km outside Musanze offering nature walks, picnics, and camping facilities. The forest is dominated by magnificent dragon trees and is home to a number of exquisite birds.

 Karisimbi Volcano Hike

The Karisimbi mountain name in Kinyarwanda means “white shell”, which refers to the white-capped summit which is often seen. Karisimbi is the fifth highest mountain in Africa. This is a strenuous 2-day hike. The climb will start early in the morning and takes 6 hours. You will climb further via the Bisoke side, before reaching the first stopping place at an altitude of 3.700 m for overnight (camping).