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Wilderness Magashi is proud to congratulate Assiat Ingabare on becoming the first female field guide accredited by the Field Guides Association of South Africa (FGASA) in Rwanda. She joins Herman Nkusi and Venuste Ndungutse, who achieved their FGASA qualifications in March 2023. As this certification is highly regarded in the industry, it adds tremendous value for guests of Wilderness Magashi’s guided experience in Akagera National Park.
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Worth Knowing About |
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| Northern and Western Provinces Impacted by Heavy Rainfall |
| We are saddened by news of the recent harmful rainfall that has especially affected the Western Province near Lake Kivu. Landslides and flooding caused heavy damage that swept away homes and took the lives of over 136 individuals. Our thoughts and condolences go out to those who lost loved ones and were affected by this tragedy. As of this publication, activities have resumed their normal course, including national parks. The Rwandan government has deployed numerous resources to assist the affected population and to repair damaged infrastructure. |
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| COVID Tests No Longer Required for Gorilla Trekking |
| The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced that tourists will no longer need to show a Covid-19 test certificate before visiting Rwanda National Parks, as was the case since COVID-9 outbreak in Rwanda, March 2020. This was announced via the twitter handle of Rwanda Development Board. “RDB would like to inform the public that all tourists, including children over 5 years, where applicable, visiting the country’s national parks are no longer required to present a negative COVID-19 test. A face mask will remain mandatory for those visiting primates,” RDB tweeted. The decision to remove Covid-19 tests for tourists comes after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared on May 5 that Covid-19 no longer represents a 'global health emergency'. |
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| Airport Construction Begins |
| Some 25 miles south of the Rwandan capital of Kigali in the Bugesera District, two strips of tarmac are the cornerstone of a $2 billion airport, whose developers want to be the crown jewel of Africa’s aviation industry. Slated for completion in 2026, the new facility will boast a 1.4-million-square-foot main terminal building capable of accommodating eight million passengers a year, a figure expected to rise to over 14 million in the following decades. Adjacent will be a dedicated cargo terminal, capable of accommodating 150,000 tons of cargo a year. It’s a significant upgrade on the existing Kigali International Airport, which is set to remain operational for special arrivals, some chartered flights, and a pilot training school. |
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| Responsible Tourism: Coffee |
| Since the introduction of coffee trees to Rwanda by missionaries in 1904, coffee has progressed to become one of the country’s largest cash crops. About 95% of beans are the high-quality Arabica-varietal Bourbon, which has a silky creamy body and hints of lemon and orange blossom, and caramel aftertaste. A patchwork of 450,000 small growers produce coffee all across Rwanda, but visits are primarily centered around Gisenyi, near the shores of Lake Kivu. Some farmers’ cooperatives and washing stations offer tours that show the coffee-making process. The coffee tree–covered hillsides shimmer green throughout the year, with the coffee cherries turning a deep cranberry red when the harvest is ready, usually between February and May. |
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Product Highlights |
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| Rubavu |
| A waterfront town on the shores of Lake Kivu, Rubavu is an hour away from Volcanoes National Park and is a good stopover on the way to or from Nyungwe or as a place to relax after gorilla tracking. Like other spots along Lake Kivu, Rubavu has red-sand beaches, an easygoing tropical character and warm, clean water. It is a great place to unwind, soak up the tranquil vibe, watch the birds and enjoy various watersports. The city marks the beginning of the Congo Nile Trail, which extends 141 miles south to Rusizi. With many tea and coffee plantations around Rubavu, as well as birds and primates to see in the new Gishwati-Mukura National Park, the area has something for everyone. |
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| Kingfisher Journeys |
| Kingfisher Journeys’ vision is to create employment in rural Africa by bringing kayaking to Lake Kivu and open canoeing to the rivers of Rwanda. It is proud to be the first operator in Rwanda to provide professionally guided kayaking and canoeing journeys on the lakes and rivers of this beautiful country. Founded in September 2015, the company is committed to delivering high-quality services to all customers and partners. In addition to creating new employment opportunities for Rwandan guides and staff members, it is also purchasing services from and supporting rural communities where tours are offered. With a focus on sustainability fundamentals, Kingfisher Journeys keeps its environmental footprint low. Click the link to find upcoming tours. |
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| While the bid was tight between Rwanda and Morocco, The International Cycling Union has confirmed that Kigali is set to host the 2025 Road World Championships – a first for Africa. With an incredible mix of stunning vistas, challenging ascents and thrilling descents, it’s clear why Rwanda has become popular with cyclists in recent years. The country has long been known as the host of the Tour du Rwanda, where thousands of spectators gather to cheer on local riders and those from neighboring countries. Because of the Tour du Rwanda’s cult following, the 2025 Road World Championships are set to be one of the most anticipated events in Rwandan cycling history. |
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What to know before you go:
Rwanda Travel Updates |
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Before you travel, make sure you have all the information you'll need! Visit Rwanda Reopens and our Travel FAQ for the latest news.
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For more information on booking travel with Visit Rwanda, click here.
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