Discover the Heart of Africa - Unforgettable Rwanda Adventures
.
Travel Notes: Africa - Rwanda Travel Notes.
Short URL: https://tnot.es/RW
Rwanada Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes
Journey to the Heart of Africa to discover Rwanda's breathtaking landscapes, encounter majestic wildlife, and experience the warmth of its vibrant culture.
About Rwanda
Rwanda has seen significant tourism growth, with many activities for visitors to enjoy, including gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural tourism.
Countries neighbouring Rwanda: Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mapping Rwanda
Map of Rwanda
Rwanda is a small landlocked country in east central Africa, closely tied to Burundi.
The capital and largest city of Rwanda is Kigali.
Rwanda Overview
Rwanda is a small, mountainous country in the Great Lakes region of Africa, bordered by Uganda to the north, Tanzania to the east, Burundi to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west.
Despite its tragic history, Rwanda has made remarkable progress in various sectors and is often cited as a positive example of post-conflict recovery and development in Africa.
Culture
Rwanda has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and art playing important roles in the lives of its people.
The traditional dance known as 'Intore' is a well-known cultural expression.
Economy
Agriculture is a significant part of the Rwandan economy, with the majority of the population engaged in subsistence farming.
In recent years, the government has made efforts to diversify the economy, with a focus on technology and services.
Government
Rwanda is a unitary presidential republic.
The President of Rwanda is both the head of state and the head of government.
Green Initiatives
Rwanda is often recognised for its efforts in environmental sustainability.
It has banned plastic bags, and the government is actively involved in tree-planting campaigns.
History
Rwanda is known for the tragic genocide that occurred in 1994 when ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities erupted into violence, resulting in the mass killing of hundreds of thousands of people.
The country has made significant progress in the aftermath of the genocide in terms of reconciliation and rebuilding.
Language
Kinyarwanda is the official language of Rwanda; with English, French, and Swahili also widely spoken in the country.
Population
With a population of around 13 million people, the population density of Rwanda is relatively high.
Technology and Innovation
Rwanda has embraced technology and innovation, with initiatives like the Kigali Innovation City aimed at fostering a knowledge-based economy.
Tourism
Rwanda has become a popular destination for tourists, particularly those interested in seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Wildlife and Environment
Rwanda is home to a variety of wildlife, and its national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park, are known for their mountain gorilla populations.
The country has made efforts to protect its natural environment and promote sustainable tourism.
Visiting Rwanda
Remember to check for any travel advisories, visa requirements, and updated information on attractions before planning your visit to Rwanda.
Rwanda Highlights
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and various bird species.
It's a great destination for a safari experience.
Culinary Exploration
Try Rwandan cuisine, which often includes dishes like brochettes (grilled meat skewers), ugali (maize porridge), and isombe (cassava leaves with palm oil).
Cultural Experiences
Explore Rwanda's rich culture by attending traditional dance performances, visiting local markets, and interacting with the friendly locals.
Gorilla Trekking
One of the major attractions in Rwanda is gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park; with its unique opportunity to see the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Iby'iwacu Cultural Village
This cultural village, near Volcanoes National Park, provides insight into traditional Rwandan life.
Visitors can participate in cultural activities, witness traditional dances, and learn about local customs.
Kigali City Tour
Take a city tour of Kigali, the capital, to see landmarks like the Kigali Convention Centre, the Kimironko Market, and the Inema Arts Center.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Pay a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of 1994 and to honour the memory of the victims.
Lake Kivu
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes.
You can relax by the lake, take boat trips, and explore the surrounding areas.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest is a biodiversity hotspot with a variety of primates, birds, and scenic hiking trails.
Canopy walks are also available for those seeking a unique experience.
Rwanda's Green Initiatives
Explore Rwanda's commitment to environmental sustainability by learning about initiatives such as the ban on plastic bags and the country's efforts in promoting green practices.
Rwanda Travel
Although Rwanda has no coastline as such, the west of the country does have access to Lake Kivu.
Rwanda has no railways but is linked by road to the Uganda-Kenya railway system. Most of Rwanda's imports and exports are routed through the port of Mombasa, Kenya.
Mountain Gorillas
About half of the world's mountain gorillas are estimated to live in the Virunga Mountains of northern Rwanda.
Dr. Dian Fossey set up a fund in 1978 to study mountain gorillas and protect them from poachers. This dedicated work eventually cost the American zoologist her own life.
Kigali
The capital of Rwanda is situated in the centre of the country, just south of the equator.
Its altitude of 1,829 m. gives the city a mild climate all year round.
Map of Kigali
A trunk road connects Kigali with Burundi to the south and Uganda to the north.
Kigali was part of German East Africa from 1899 to 1916. After Word War I Belgium were given a mandate over the Territory of Ruanda-Urundi.
When the trust territory was divided in 1962 to form the independent nations of Rwanda and Burundi, Kigali became the capital of Rwanda.
Where to Stay in Kigali
Hôtel des Mille Collines
Hôtel des Mille Collines: 2 KN 6 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda.
Inaugurated in 1973 as the premier grand hotel of Rwanda, this is probably the most famous hotel in the country.
Guests at the Hôtel des Mille Collines liked the breathtaking views of Kigali from the Panorama restaurant, the good food and great customer service.
Rwanda Tourism
Visit Rwanda
Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda's stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world.
Rwanda is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains.
Travellers come from far and wide to visit Rwanda and catch a glimpse of the magnificent gorillas, yet there is so much more to see and experience around this wonderful, east-central African country.
Rwanda Maps and Travel Guides
Rwanda Travel Guides - Rwanda Maps.
Weather in Africa:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around Africa.
More From Travel Notes
Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel
Africa - Asia - Caribbean - Europe - Middle East - North America - Oceania - South America.
The Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel helps visitors plan their trip with country and city travel guides, local tourist information, reviewed web sites, and regular travel articles.
Travel and Tourism Guides on Travel Notes
If Travel Notes has helped you, please take a moment to like us on Facebook and share with your friends on social media.
Travel Resources
.
Travel & Tourism With Industry Professionals.
