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Racing bicyclists climb an uphill street.
Tour du Rwanda allows bicyclists from near and far to compete in teams over a 582.3 mi (937.1 km) ride. Throughout the race, beautiful landscapes of the land of a thousand hills are seen by cyclists from all over the world. Each year, riders from countries far away like the USA, Belgium, Canada and France, and from closer destinations such as Kenya, South Africa, Eritrea, Algeria, Gabon challenge the Rwandan riders on their home turf. Eritrean cyclist Henok Mulubrhan, who rides for Italian team Bardiani CSF, is the champion of Tour du Rwanda 2023 after winning the last stage of the tour at Canal Olympia Rebero. Tune in to see which team will win the trophy in 2024!
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A modern art painting
Nature-Based Tourism
The World Bank states that assisting in the development of Nature- Based Tourism (NBT) is crucial in driving Rwanda's economic growth. Despite the different economic difficulties faced by the country, Rwanda's economy grew by 8% in the first three quarters of 2022, spurred by the revival of tourism. The report highlighted that involving private sector investment is critical to promote nature-based tourism in the country. A total financing of an estimated $97.5 million to $107.7 million is required for sustainable management of the natural resources, ecosystems and biodiversity that underpin NBT by 2030.
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The exterior of the Kigali International Airport.
RwandAir Plans to Make Kigali a Central Hub
RwandAir plans to develop its regional route network by making Kigali International Airport a central hub, given its geographical position in the heart of Africa. RwandAir had been operating flights to London via Brussels, but it recently split the two destinations to fly directly from Kigali to London. The national carrier also plans to launch a route between Kigali and Paris through Brussels before the end of 2023.
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Close up of a gorilla in a tropical rainforest tree.
Rwanda Featured in Forbes
Forbes celebrated World Wildlife Day by highlighting the most popular features of the region: the annual Kwita Izina ceremony and Gorilla trekking. "Celebrate the centuries-old tradition in Rwanda by attending a naming ceremony for baby gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park over the last year. This is an important celebration of conservation success and new life coming into the world."
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A thatched hut on a tea farm.
Responsible Tourism: Tea
Tea was introduced in Rwanda in 1952 and is now one of the country’s largest exports. The fertile volcanic soil and temperate climate make for perfect growing conditions. The majority of tea is cultivated on large plantations, with a small contribution from cooperatives and private growers. Tea plants can be seen covering the rolling hills, their rich green a striking contrast to the blue skies, dirt roads and sunshine. The leaves are processed in a dozen tea factories across the country, with a number of them open to the public – enabling visitors to discover how tea is harvested and processed and have the opportunity to taste the results. Tea plantation tours take place in a variety of locations across Rwanda, with the major ones being around Nyungwe National Park – Gisoyu and Gisakura.
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An aerial view of fisherman on the lake.
Karongi
In our landlocked country, Karongi is perhaps the most popular beach retreat for families living in Rwanda. It’s easy to see why, with its majestic vistas, tranquil atmosphere and easy access from Kigali. Hillsides covered in pines and eucalyptus serve as a backdrop to the sparkling lake. At dawn and dusk, the sound of local fisherman singing carries across the water as they paddle in unison. This is a place where busy minds can completely switch off – where visitors can take in the birds or the changing colors on the lake as the sun drops over the far side. For those keen to stay active, various hotels have kayaks to rent – and night fishing with the locals or kayaking out with them at sunset offer an authentic experience.
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Vintage Cottage
Vintage Cottage was founded in 2017 by Mrs. Rwamukwaya U. Beatrice and her spouse. The place started as a private vacation area for her family and friends, but upon request, she made it public and increased the number of rooms. Now at Vintage Cottage, there are 12 sophisticated rooms; guests can choose Luxury Rooms, Standard Cottage Rooms, and Twin bedrooms and one Family Cottage with two bedrooms, and a living room, each room being self-contained. There are many beautiful experiences available on the lake, around the golf course, and even camping or hiking. Visit the Vintage Cottage website for more information regarding availability and bookings.
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The exterior of Vintage Cottage
Did you know?
Rwanda hosts a car-free day to promote exercise
and healthy living


In Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, there are various car-free zones where pedestrians and cyclists can roam freely. Rwanda also implements a car-free day each month in which the government encourages residents to exercise and focus on healthy living. While cars are popular in Rwanda, many people travel on foot, bicycles, moto-taxis and mopeds on which individuals ride on the back of to get around. Most moto-taxi drivers carry an additional helmet with them, and this is by far the most affordable way to get around in Kigali if your destination is too far for walking.
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