Rwanda

Rwandan retreat

Rwanda is known as a reminder to the world of the traumatising genocide in 1994, but there is more to this country than just a horrifying past. Rwanda may lack size in between its borders, but packs a punch with its amazing attractions. The is a booming tourism industry and you ought to make this gem your next retreat.

http://www.afrikareporter.com/gab_gallery/kigali-up-festival/ – Image 01 (Kigali Up)

Starting with the Kigali Up music festival lights up the capital annually around June and July. Bringing together reggae, blues, hip-hop and funk over a few days. Calling artists and performers from around the globe, this is a very popular event in Rwanda. Kigali becomes a hive of activity as ticket holders walk through the streets. Book in advance and enjoy spectacular performances.

http://www.livinginkigali.com/information/food-drink/eating-local-food-in-kigali/ – Image 02 (Rwandan Food)

And if you’re still in the city after Kigali Up, go to Chez John for a hearty lunch buffet that is a favourite with locals. Ugali (mashed up maize and water), meat and vegetables are popular dishes here and they are really the basis of every meal. Chez Robert is also another spot you should eat at, more upmarket than Chez John but no fussy foods. Still incorporating authentic African and European flavours. If you have a chance, indulge in Maraba coffee – a huge export for Rwanda.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/comsec/5843869696 – Image 03 (Mishanana clad women)

These days, it is rare to see traditional attire donned by locals. Women wear mishanana, a ceremonial dress in Rwanda. It is light material wrapped around the waist and then draped over a shoulder. Women usually wear tank tops underneath this and elaborate beaded head chains. Women also thick bell anklets during dances. Men wear tunics and trousers daily. But for religious ceremonies in rural areas, teenage boys and men do wear animal skins.

http://catnapsintransit.com/remembering-the-rwandan-genocide-kigali-memorial-centre/ – Image 03 (Kigali Genocide Memorial)

A trip to the Kigali Genocide Memorial will be a monumental visit for one. Estimated at over a million people of Tutsi and Hutus ethnic groups were killed by the Interahamwe militant group. It is open daily and there is an audio tour fee of the memorial. There are survivor’s tales, information about the victims and though the tour is rather emotional it is an important part of Rwandan history. Take a taxi from the city centre and spend the day at the memorial. There is a café on site offering light meals and busy buffets. Do take it all in before you leave.

http://kerdowney.com/destinations/rwanda/nyungwe-forest-national-park/ – Image 04 (Nyungwe Forest National Park)http://kerdowney.com/destinations/rwanda/nyungwe-forest-national-park/ – Image 04 (Nyungwe Forest National Park)

Once out of Kigali, head South West to the Nyungwe Forest National Park. It is a five-hour drive and booking accommodation in the area is recommended. The park is unique in that you can hike through the forest it while tracking a multitude of primates. Look out for elusive gorillas, cheerful Colobus monkeys but the stars of the park are the curious chimpanzees. There is a steep entrance fee, but it is indeed worth it. Rolling hills and gushing waterfalls really do add to the tour of the park. Hiking through the ascending clouds is unforgettable.

And though Rwanda has a horrific past, the country is rebuilding itself into a stronger nation. There are world class facilities, astonishing attractions and a genuine sense of unity. Learn about the past and appreciate how far Rwanda has come.