At sight lake Kivu looks like an
innocent beautiful small lake. Located along Rwanda’s western border, it is
both a prominent food and water source in the country, and is increasingly a
tourist hotspot.
Business men have rushed to set up
hotels along the lake coast to build accommodation for visitors, no doubt lured
in by the lake’s idyllic beach setting. The lake is very important to the
countries tourism. Its usually visited after visitors finish gorilla tracking,
or other national parks around Rwanda, this is a good place to come and relax.
What these tourists may not know,
however, is that because of the area’s volcanoes and anaerobic bacteria in the
water, Lake Kivu is a storehouse for 60 billion cubic meters of methane gas,
and is very susceptible to underwater eruptions.
Lake Kivu is one of three “exploding
lakes” in the world. Though these types of eruptions, known as overturns, can
potentially pose a risk to the local community (in 1986, a similar lake in
Cameroon released a bubble of CO2 that killed 1,746 people), Lake Kivu is safe,
thanks in part to the efforts of the Rwandan government.
Lake Kivu has methane gas and needs degassing,” says Olivier Ntirushwa, the manager at Kibuye Power Plant in northwest Rwanda.
Lake Kivu has methane gas and needs degassing,” says Olivier Ntirushwa, the manager at Kibuye Power Plant in northwest Rwanda.
Degassing the lake is very important
because it keeps it safe, it provides electricity for the region. In 2008,
Rwanda launched a pilot project to extract methane gas from the lake and use it
as a power source. This is a source of power, a source of energy that’s free.
It’s our lake, so why not use it to benefit our people.
In Rwanda currently, only 20% of
Rwandan homes have power, and Ntirushwa estimates it will take at least 1,000
megawatts to power the country by 2020. While this project is still in the
early stages (the plant currently extracts a mere 2.4 megawatts of power),
Ntirushwa sees an enormous amount of potential. This lake has the power to
produce up to 800 megawatts.
The methane resides 250 meters
underneath the lake, and to extract it, engineers lower a pipe to just about
the layer of dissolved gas. Once captured, the gas is purified and dried.
Overall, it’s a cheap method for creating electricity.
“It’s a very rewarding job, because it’s the first time its been used. It’s a new technology, and the people of Rwanda are very excited about it.
“It’s a very rewarding job, because it’s the first time its been used. It’s a new technology, and the people of Rwanda are very excited about it.
Primates in Uganda are among the
most social animals, forming pairs or family groups. Uganda has a diversity of
primates, unlike any other East African country e.g. gorillas, chimpanzees and
monkeys. These primates have slower rates of development than other mammals
since infants are breastfed by their mothers and rely on them for grooming and
transportation. They embrace the coordination of anti-predator behavior for
example red Colobus coordinate anti-predator alarm calls and among the
predators of these monkeys is the common chimpanzee. Primates have advanced
cognitive abilities of which some make tools and use them to acquire food and
for social displays. Some have sophisticated hunting strategies requiring
cooperation, influence and rank, they are status conscious, manipulative and
capable of deception.
Uganda is an incredibly lush country
commonly known for its mountain gorillas located in both Bwindi impenetrable
and Mgahinga national parks. These national parks boost 39 families of mountain
gorillas which can be visited during your Uganda gorilla safari of which 12 are habituated
and ready to be visited; 11 in Bwindi national park and 01 in Mgahinga. The
closeness of these parks support the engagement in other activities like the
visit to the ancient pygmies- the Batwa trail, lake Bunyonyi, volcano hiking,
golden monkey tracking, wildlife viewing and chimpanzee tracking in the
underground forests of Queen Elizabeth national park.
About 4950 of our closet
relatives-chimpanzee are also found in Uganda but the most habituated groups of
these wonderful primates are found in Kibale national park. This haven is well
known for their 1500 chimpanzees of which some are habituated for both research
and tourism. Early visitors can go on a full-day Chimpanzee Habituation
Experience to watch chimps leaving their overnight nests between 6:00 – 6:30am
before feeding, copulating, hunting, breastfeeding, resting, patrolling and
displaying until it is time to build new nests around 7pm. Blessed with this
sought after treasure, guides are always available at African adventure safaris
to take you all the way till the last primate in this outstanding tropical
forest while listening to soft music from colorful rare tropical birds. Other
primates include;
Golden Monkeys (Cercopithecus Kandt)
Listed as endangered on the IUCN red list due to habitat loss, destruction and recent wars in and near the volcanic mountains of Virunga, golden monkeys are restricted to highland forests of Mgahinga national park in south-western Uganda, volcanoes in Rwanda and Virunga in democratic republic of Congo. Its upper flanks and back has golden orange patch and they live in social groups of up to 30 individuals, feed on leaves and fruits although research indicates that they eat insects. The illegal activities going on this area like tree extraction and bamboo harvest are serious threats.
Listed as endangered on the IUCN red list due to habitat loss, destruction and recent wars in and near the volcanic mountains of Virunga, golden monkeys are restricted to highland forests of Mgahinga national park in south-western Uganda, volcanoes in Rwanda and Virunga in democratic republic of Congo. Its upper flanks and back has golden orange patch and they live in social groups of up to 30 individuals, feed on leaves and fruits although research indicates that they eat insects. The illegal activities going on this area like tree extraction and bamboo harvest are serious threats.
Black and White Colobus Monkeys (Or
Colobi)
They live in groups of up to 9 individuals and a single male can have a number of females and their offspring. Colobus monkeys can go up to 20 years in captivity and the gestation period is about 6 months. Newly born colobuses are completely white. They are herbivorous and they feed on leaves, fruits, flowers and twigs both in primary and secondary forests, river line forests and wooded grasslands. In Uganda, black and white Colobus monkeys are unique to Mount Rwenzori national park but found in all other national parks including the nearest Entebbe botanical gardens.
They live in groups of up to 9 individuals and a single male can have a number of females and their offspring. Colobus monkeys can go up to 20 years in captivity and the gestation period is about 6 months. Newly born colobuses are completely white. They are herbivorous and they feed on leaves, fruits, flowers and twigs both in primary and secondary forests, river line forests and wooded grasslands. In Uganda, black and white Colobus monkeys are unique to Mount Rwenzori national park but found in all other national parks including the nearest Entebbe botanical gardens.
Olive Baboons (Papio Anubus)
Baboons are some of the world’s largest monkeys and all species live in Africa or Arabia. They prefer savannah and other semi-arid habitats though a few live in tropical forests, spend much of their time on ground but they also climb trees to sleep, eat and look out for any trouble. They eat fruits, grasses, seeds, bark and roots but also have a taste for meat. They eat birds, rodents and younger mammals such as antelopes and sheep. Adult female baboon can weigh 14.7kg and male adult can range between 10-37kg. In Uganda, baboons are found in all parks with an exception of 3 Montane region parks such as Mgahinga, Rwenzori and Mount Elgon national park.
Baboons are some of the world’s largest monkeys and all species live in Africa or Arabia. They prefer savannah and other semi-arid habitats though a few live in tropical forests, spend much of their time on ground but they also climb trees to sleep, eat and look out for any trouble. They eat fruits, grasses, seeds, bark and roots but also have a taste for meat. They eat birds, rodents and younger mammals such as antelopes and sheep. Adult female baboon can weigh 14.7kg and male adult can range between 10-37kg. In Uganda, baboons are found in all parks with an exception of 3 Montane region parks such as Mgahinga, Rwenzori and Mount Elgon national park.
Blue Monkeys (Cercopithecus Mitis)
They are small ranging in weight from 4 to 6 kg; the face is nearly naked and usually dark in color (infrequently blue). Blue monkeys can go up to 25 years in captivity. The body has an olive color with patches of white and black on it. The top of the head is dark in color. Males are larger than females. The nostrils are close together and they face down ward. They have check pouches to carry food while foraging. In Uganda, blue monkeys are found in all parks except Murchison falls and Lake Mburo national park.
They are small ranging in weight from 4 to 6 kg; the face is nearly naked and usually dark in color (infrequently blue). Blue monkeys can go up to 25 years in captivity. The body has an olive color with patches of white and black on it. The top of the head is dark in color. Males are larger than females. The nostrils are close together and they face down ward. They have check pouches to carry food while foraging. In Uganda, blue monkeys are found in all parks except Murchison falls and Lake Mburo national park.
De Brazza’s Monkey (Cercopithecus
Neglectus)
It has a grey fur with a reddish brown back, back limbs, tail and white rump. Males have a blue scrotum and both sexes have cheeck pouches that carry food while they forage. They weigh 4-7kg and can live up to 30 years in captivity. They dwell in the tree canopy and prefer dense vegetation near rivers. De brazzas live in small social groups, territorial and the strongest male takes over the control of the entire group. They shake tree branches; use booming sounds, facial expressions like shaking its head when stressed out and movements. You can find these precious blue monkeys in Mount Elgon and Semliki national park Uganda.
It has a grey fur with a reddish brown back, back limbs, tail and white rump. Males have a blue scrotum and both sexes have cheeck pouches that carry food while they forage. They weigh 4-7kg and can live up to 30 years in captivity. They dwell in the tree canopy and prefer dense vegetation near rivers. De brazzas live in small social groups, territorial and the strongest male takes over the control of the entire group. They shake tree branches; use booming sounds, facial expressions like shaking its head when stressed out and movements. You can find these precious blue monkeys in Mount Elgon and Semliki national park Uganda.
Grey Cheecked Mangabey (Lophocebus Albigena)
They are tree- dwelling monkeys and excellent jumpers and can live between 5 to 30 individuals usually led by one or several males and males are slightly larger than the females. It feeds on fruits like figs, shoots, flowers and insects. Young ones leave their troop and join another, while females stay with their natal group throughout their life. In Uganda, they are found in Semuliki, Kibale national parks and Mabira forest reserve which are yet to be habituated.
They are tree- dwelling monkeys and excellent jumpers and can live between 5 to 30 individuals usually led by one or several males and males are slightly larger than the females. It feeds on fruits like figs, shoots, flowers and insects. Young ones leave their troop and join another, while females stay with their natal group throughout their life. In Uganda, they are found in Semuliki, Kibale national parks and Mabira forest reserve which are yet to be habituated.
Other primates in Uganda include L’hoests
monkeys found in Bwindi, Kibale and Maramagambo forest, Pantas monkeys which
are found in savannah parks of northern Uganda of Murchison, Kidepo and
Pian-Upe wildlife reserve. Red Colobus monkeys are found in Kibale and Semliki
national parks. Red tailed monkeys found in Kibale, Bwindi impenetrable,
Semliki and Queen Elizabeth national parks. Bush babies (Galago) and Pottos are
nocturnal primates found in Kibale, Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth national parks.
Recently there has been a steep and
sudden increase in Congo visa fees for Rwanda visitors and other tourists
making the Democratic Republic of Congo an even more remote tourism
destination.
Following recent unsuccessful attempts to enter Rwandan territory by Congolese troops, which met with a resolute response by the Rwandan army and once more exposed Congo as a hostile aggressor, has the regime in Kinshasa now resorted to other measures to hit at the Land of a Thousand Hills.
It was learned yesterday that Congolese immigration at the main border crossing from Gisenyi to Goma imposed hefty fees on Rwandan traders and visitors, with the cost ranging from 30 US Dollars for students to 250 US Dollars for traders. Similar measures were already taken at the border post between Kamembe and Bukavu, seriously impacting on cross border trade.
Following recent unsuccessful attempts to enter Rwandan territory by Congolese troops, which met with a resolute response by the Rwandan army and once more exposed Congo as a hostile aggressor, has the regime in Kinshasa now resorted to other measures to hit at the Land of a Thousand Hills.
It was learned yesterday that Congolese immigration at the main border crossing from Gisenyi to Goma imposed hefty fees on Rwandan traders and visitors, with the cost ranging from 30 US Dollars for students to 250 US Dollars for traders. Similar measures were already taken at the border post between Kamembe and Bukavu, seriously impacting on cross border trade.
Local contacts in Gisenyi
immediately laid the blame squarely on the regime across the border, claiming
it was a reaction to their failure to intrude into Rwandan territory and now
using Visa fees to hit out at Rwandans, some 30.000 a day usually crossed from
Gisenyi into Goma. Wrote one regular contributor from there in response to a
request for a comment: ‘There is a mechanism under the Great Lakes region
economic cooperation, whereby the imposition of Visa fees should be handled
through a bilateral meeting. This has not taken place, this was a unilateral
move by Congo. They should remember that their imports and exports to and from
Eastern Congo depend on open borders and the free flow of trade.
Their main entry points are in Goma and then in Uganda from either Ishasha, Mpondwe or via Arua. Imagine every one of their truck drivers has to pay 250 US Dollars when entering Rwanda enroute to Mombasa? That could derail their entire supply chain by then, it seems the regime does not think with their brains’.
Their main entry points are in Goma and then in Uganda from either Ishasha, Mpondwe or via Arua. Imagine every one of their truck drivers has to pay 250 US Dollars when entering Rwanda enroute to Mombasa? That could derail their entire supply chain by then, it seems the regime does not think with their brains’.
Notably has in particular RwandAir
benefited in the past from a sharp increase in passengers coming from Eastern
Congo and flying from Kamembe via Kigali to other Eastern or Southern African
destinations, and as far as Dubai.
It is this rise in traffic which is a major reason for the number of frequencies between Kigali and RwandAir’s only remaining domestic destination after flights to Gisenyi had to be suspended following security incidents from across the border in Congo. Perhaps it was in consideration of such circumstances that the Rwandan authorities were slow in reciprocating with a similar rise in fees at the Bukavu border crossing but this latest affront may well now trigger a wider response, based on the principle of reciprocity.
It is this rise in traffic which is a major reason for the number of frequencies between Kigali and RwandAir’s only remaining domestic destination after flights to Gisenyi had to be suspended following security incidents from across the border in Congo. Perhaps it was in consideration of such circumstances that the Rwandan authorities were slow in reciprocating with a similar rise in fees at the Bukavu border crossing but this latest affront may well now trigger a wider response, based on the principle of reciprocity.
Foreign visitors are already paying
high Visa fees when entering Congo from Rwanda and Uganda, something which has
affected in particular Uganda and Rwanda tours which are the two neighboring
countries to the Virunga National Park and to the Nyiragongo volcano.
Not to mention the general security situation in Eastern Congo not being conducive to regular tourist visits. Militias roam the region almost at will; tolerated by the regime in Kinshasa and unchecked by the UN forces which have more often than not been accused of covert complicity in letting in particular the genocidaires continue their campaign.
Not to mention the general security situation in Eastern Congo not being conducive to regular tourist visits. Militias roam the region almost at will; tolerated by the regime in Kinshasa and unchecked by the UN forces which have more often than not been accused of covert complicity in letting in particular the genocidaires continue their campaign.
The Rwandan tourism sector has
managed to collect over $49million from conference tourism and the country is
hoping to triple this by the year 2016.
“Rwanda is becoming an attraction for conference tourism. Recently the country held the African Development Bank meeting, which is contributing to more revenue from the sector,” Head of Tourism and Conservation Ambassador Yamina Karitanyi said last week during a press briefing aimed at announcing the 10th Kwita Izina ceremony at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
“Rwanda is becoming an attraction for conference tourism. Recently the country held the African Development Bank meeting, which is contributing to more revenue from the sector,” Head of Tourism and Conservation Ambassador Yamina Karitanyi said last week during a press briefing aimed at announcing the 10th Kwita Izina ceremony at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
In the future, Rwanda will be naming
18 baby gorillas in the forthcoming gorilla naming ceremony due on the July,
1st 2014 which will be the 10th naming ceremony and will featuring a theme, “A
decade of Conserving, Empowering – Growing.
Karitanyi said Rwanda has continued to promote MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Events) and now the country owns more facilities and can participate in such tourism. This is aimed at marketing the country for not only conference tourism but also other events.
Tourism is the first foreign earning sector to Rwanda and development of the MICE sub-sector will therefore help the sector perform even better.
Karitanyi said Rwanda has continued to promote MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Events) and now the country owns more facilities and can participate in such tourism. This is aimed at marketing the country for not only conference tourism but also other events.
Tourism is the first foreign earning sector to Rwanda and development of the MICE sub-sector will therefore help the sector perform even better.
Before the Kwita Izina ceremony
different other activities will take place making way to the celebrations of
the birth of the most endangered species worldwide.
“During the ceremony, we will recognize the efforts of individuals, organizations, and nations that have contributed to preservation of these rare animals,” Karitanyi said.
She said Rwanda community led conservation efforts have led to a 26.3% growth in the population of gorillas since 2003 and Kwita Izina has been key to this success plus the government of Rwanda which has ensured tourism flourishes in a secure and safe environment.
Rwanda’s tourism sector has continued to grow tremendously with over 1,137,000 travellers coming into to the country in 2013 generating over $294million up from the $62million collected in 2000 which is attributed to Rwanda’s beauty as a travel destination especially in West Africa spearheaded by the RwandAir the national carrier, an increase in unique experience for the tourists, the gorilla tracking adventure plus the country’s stability and new welcoming visa policies. The Rwanda tourism sector has a revenue sharing scheme were it takes back to the community hence help such communities especially near the National parks develop and here a 5% is allocated to that.
“During the ceremony, we will recognize the efforts of individuals, organizations, and nations that have contributed to preservation of these rare animals,” Karitanyi said.
She said Rwanda community led conservation efforts have led to a 26.3% growth in the population of gorillas since 2003 and Kwita Izina has been key to this success plus the government of Rwanda which has ensured tourism flourishes in a secure and safe environment.
Rwanda’s tourism sector has continued to grow tremendously with over 1,137,000 travellers coming into to the country in 2013 generating over $294million up from the $62million collected in 2000 which is attributed to Rwanda’s beauty as a travel destination especially in West Africa spearheaded by the RwandAir the national carrier, an increase in unique experience for the tourists, the gorilla tracking adventure plus the country’s stability and new welcoming visa policies. The Rwanda tourism sector has a revenue sharing scheme were it takes back to the community hence help such communities especially near the National parks develop and here a 5% is allocated to that.
Spanning on an area of 26,338 square
kilometers almost the size of Haiti or Albania, the land of a ‘thousand hills’
as commonly described is one of the most incredible Safari destinations in
Africa. Geographically the country is located in the East African region and
bordered by Uganda in the north, D R Congo in the west, Tanzania in the East
and Burundi in the south.
Located right in the heart of
Africa, Rwanda lies only 75 miles south of the equator, 880 miles, as the eagle
flies’ west of the Indian ocean and 1250 miles east of the Atlantic ocean. The
country is gifted with 5 volcanoes, 23 lakes and copious rivers, some draining
into the Nile and others into the Congo River. Most notable is the Kagera
River, one of the arguable contender sources of the Nile and flows through the
Country to Tanzania and later to Uganda into the L. Victoria.
The western section of the country lies within the Albertine Rift montane forests eco region with an elevation of 1,500 to 2,500 meters (4,921 to 8,202 ft). The centre of the country is predominantly undulating hills, while the eastern border region consists of savanna plains and swamps.
The western section of the country lies within the Albertine Rift montane forests eco region with an elevation of 1,500 to 2,500 meters (4,921 to 8,202 ft). The centre of the country is predominantly undulating hills, while the eastern border region consists of savanna plains and swamps.
The country’s popularity stems not
only from its somber history of the ‘dark’ years marred by the ethnic tensions
that resulted into one of the cruelest cataclysm the world had ever known but
also on its rapid economic recovery and less tolerance to corruption as well as
rich geography characterized by volcanoes, stunning beaches of L. Kivu and the
scenic craters that have garlanded its surface and favored the flourishing
wildlife.
Rwanda has a temperate tropical
highland climate, cooler than typical equatorial because of her high elevation
especially in the western side. The capital Kigali, has a typical daily temperature
range of 12 and 27 °C (54 and 81 °F), with diminutive variation throughout the
year. The mountainous west and north are generally cooler than the lower-lying
east. There are two rainy seasons in the year; with the first running from
February to June and the second from September to December. These are alienated
by two dry seasons: the major and severe one from June to September, during
which there is often no rain at all, and a shorter one between December and
February. Rainfall varies geographically, with the west and northwest of the
country receiving more rainfall annually than the east and southeast.
Despite her ugly past, Rwanda is
highly secure for tourists to travel with one of the lowest crime rates in
Africa and her capital Kigali is one of the safest cities on the continent.
Home to one third of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, a third of Africa’s bird species, several primate species, volcanoes, game reserves, resorts and islands on the unrestrained lake Kivu, graceful dancers, artistic crafts and friendly people, Rwanda offers an a’ la carte menu of attractions that range from cultural, historical, geographical and wildlife. Her long list of birds stretch to about 700 species of which 138 are migrants and come in periodically from Europe and other African countries like Madagascar.
Home to one third of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, a third of Africa’s bird species, several primate species, volcanoes, game reserves, resorts and islands on the unrestrained lake Kivu, graceful dancers, artistic crafts and friendly people, Rwanda offers an a’ la carte menu of attractions that range from cultural, historical, geographical and wildlife. Her long list of birds stretch to about 700 species of which 138 are migrants and come in periodically from Europe and other African countries like Madagascar.
As one sets a foot in the capital
Kigali for a Rwanda
safari, the awesome smiles of her people, the neatness of the
streets and architecture of the buildings will beckon a welcome signal. You
will ponder to whether the country was truly at one time sunk to the deepest
end by the dreadful genocide as portrayed in the ‘Hotel Rwanda’ movie where
about 800,000 people lost their lives in a period of about 100 days.
Unlike her neighbors, Rwanda has a
small pack of attractions and offers the opportunity to those traveling on a
short time schedule to enjoy the best of an African safari. It is of less
wonder that all Rwanda’s attractions are located within 5-hours’ drive from the
capital Kigali. This means one can visit the Endangered Mountain Gorilla in the
Volcanoes on a 1 days gorilla tour, track chimpanzees in Nyungwe
and Visit the Akagera Park for other wildlife on a short vacation. A visit here
can easily expand to include many of the great African destinations like the
neighboring Uganda and Tanzania as well as Kenya.
As you visit the genocide monuments,
read their writings and listen to the stories of the survivors, tears may run
down in your heart only to be wiped away by the fascinating Virunga volcano
chain in the northwest that includes Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest point,
at 4,507 meters (14,787 ft), Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura volcanoes
that offer good hiking opportunities.
Away from the country’s dark
historic reminiscence, the bustling town of Musanze cradled against a stunning
back drop of the 5 volcanoes (Karisimbi , Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga and
Muhabura) is quite interesting for the cultural enthusiasts with its rich
cultural tourism opportunities including a visit to the palace of the former
king, experience of the Kinyarwanda dance, and the entire Rwandan life style.
The town also offers opportunities for caving, birding and fishing from its
neighboring lakes including the biggest and stunning L. Kivu which is 45
minutes drive away.
The 2 km long Musanze cave is the most visited of the 52 surveyed caves in the Northern Province with 31 entrances most of which being roof collapses. 8km away from Musanze town is Buhanga eco-park, a small patch of forest offering nature walks to view the dragon trees as well as camping and picnic facilities.
The 2 km long Musanze cave is the most visited of the 52 surveyed caves in the Northern Province with 31 entrances most of which being roof collapses. 8km away from Musanze town is Buhanga eco-park, a small patch of forest offering nature walks to view the dragon trees as well as camping and picnic facilities.
Still close to this gorilla
tracking center (Musanze) are the stunning twin lakes of Burera and
Ruhondo that are often neglected gems because of the poor terrain of the roads
but offer rewarding views of a magnificent landscape that strike a chord of
God’s artistic work of creation. You can discover nature in a traditional canoe
to different islands on these twin lakes as you enjoy the fascinating views of
different bird species and have a memorable picnic.
Efforts being done by the RDB (the
Rwanda Development Board) aimed at attracting more tourists to Rwanda and
increasing the number of Rwanda safaris are starting to bear more fruits,
with the country’s earnings raising up to 4% last year. The numbers of tourists
recorded were also up by 6 per cent during the year.
According to new figures presented
by RDB, Rwanda raked in $293.6m (about Rwf196.7b) from tourism, as compared to
$281.8m (about Rwf188.8b) generated in 2012.
The numbers of tourists recorded was
1,137,000 visitors in 2013 compared to around 1,076,000 in 2012, which
represents an increase of 61,000 visitors over the year and hence an increase
in tourism development in the country. Most tourists were mainly coming
from the US, the UK and Germany, according to RDB statistics.
The development body noted that the
three national parks in Rwanda, Nyungwe, Akagera and Volcanoes National Parks
sold 61,764 tourist activities last year compared to 61,304 the
previous year.
Some of the popular tourism
attractions over the year included guided nature trails, birding, canopy
adventure, tropical water falls, chimpanzee and mountain gorillas trekking, camping,
Congo Nile hike, golden monkeys, Dian Fossey tomb, hiking on Bisoke and
Karisimbi mountain peaks, game drives, fishing and boat cruises.
The earnings ($293.6m), mean that
tourism is still Rwanda’s largest foreign exchange earner. Other top foreign exchange
earners are tea, coffee and minerals.
The country’s tourism receipts are
projected to get better, thanks to product diversification and expected
benefits presented by the tripartite single tourist visa. The $100 (about
Rwf69,000) visa gives tourists a seamless opportunity to visit Kenya, Rwanda
and Uganda.
Previously, tourists who wanted to
visit the three countries would part with about $130 in entry visa fees.
Rica Rwigamba, the head of the
tourism department at the Rwanda Development Board, revealed yesterday that RDB
would launch an information bureau this month, where information on conference,
accommodation and restaurant facilities, as well as airlines flying in and out
of the country, would be accessed to market Rwanda’s potential as a conference
hub.
This is hoped will further increase
the country’s tourism revenues and visitors’ number in the coming years.
The Akagera national park and Lake
Ihema are the main areas of interest for most of the tourists. Lake Ihema is
the biggest lake within the park with a 90 square kilometres, with a depth
varying from 5 to 7 metres depending on the area and the season, located in the
south of Akagera national park. The Akagera River feeds a complex of a dozen of
lakes including Lake Ihema, which is located at an altitude of 1,292 m. Lake
Ihema is home to hippos and crocodiles. It’s also a habitant to over 550 bird
species including the unique Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) and the Papyrus Gonolek
(Laniarius mufumbiri) among other interesting bird species.
The animals to view within Akagera
NP include; the zebra, the antelope, the zebra, the giraffe and some birds.
The Akagera national park which is the biggest park in Rwanda covers, an area of 1085 km2 and was opened up in 1934 to protect animals and vegetation in three habitats savannah, mountain and swamp.
The Akagera national park which is the biggest park in Rwanda covers, an area of 1085 km2 and was opened up in 1934 to protect animals and vegetation in three habitats savannah, mountain and swamp.
Along the eastern part of the park
is the Akagera river which happens to be a remote source of the Nile and
supplies many lakes. The biggest water body being Lake Ihema.
The authorities concerned in Rwanda
have put up measures of making Akagera a world class National park by fencing
the whole reserve to endeavor that all the BIG five ( Leopards, Lions,
Elephants, Baboons and Rhino ceros) are within the park. This park is on a low
altitude, fairly warmer and the zone mostly low lying savannah with rolling plains
of broad leafed wood lands and grasslands. The open extensiveness is perfect
for game viewing.
There is a resort seeds of peace
centre also run by the Episcopal Church and usually avails accommodation,
food and tours. In the grounds you will find a traditional hut of the king’s
house from the Rwandan monarchy.
Safari Activities in the park
Boat trips. Boating is a common activity around the Akagera and while
enjoying the view of Lake Ihema one is able to see the hippos and the massive
crocodiles. For bird lovers’ you have arrived while at this point.
Lake Shakani avails fishing grounds for those that may want to try out
fishing.
Game drives may also be availed while staying at the Akagera Game Lodge
and there’s a chance of seeing animals not out and all over in the day.
The imigongo Art that was invented by Prince Kakira that invented the art of
decorating houses using cow dung and is usually produced by the women. The dung
is dried and mixed with colors made from organic material like plants to create
mostly white and red paints. These paintings from the Kakira cooperative are
well known currently.
Birds and Birding. The Akagera river is a prominent stop center for bird
viewing with about 525 bird species. The nature of the region avails 3 habitats
that is the Savannah, Mountain and Swamp.
The Akagera and Nyungwe national parks are a stop site for bird viewing and would
be amazed by the variety and rarity of what can be viewed. The species that can
possibly be seen include, the elusive shoebill stork, papyrus gonolek,
Caruthers’s, cisticola, white winged warbler and the papyrus canary.
The low lying savannah are sought
after, the red faced barbet, Sousa’s shrike, long tailed cisticola, Bennett’s
wood pecker white winged and broad tailed warblers, Miombo wren warblers and
white collared olive back.
Kayonza district. The places of attraction in this area include Gahini which
is a village on the eastern edge of Lake Muhazi. It is a famous tourist stop
centre by the road.
Humure refugee village tour. This is a 40 minute drive from the Akagera national park.
The around will include visits to local cooperatives and you will be able to
enjoy dancing and cooking.
There is a self drive around
the park and on entering the park, a map will be given to you for orientation.
A guide can possibly take you around
and the cost of hiring the guide is always included on the entrance fee
although a tip at end of day is expected.
There are also circuits and one of
the famous trips includes the one leaving the southern part of the park passing
through all the lakes going north and turning back when you reach Mutumba
Hills.
Accommodations in the park include
the Akagera Game Lodge close to Lake Ihema.
The medical team treating gorillas
within the Volcanoes National Park have made a report of what they described as
a “gorilla boom” in Rwanda as more than expected numbers of infants are born in
the park.
According to the Gorilla Doctors – a
conservationist group reported Tuesday that it has recorded 24 baby gorillas in
the past seven months alone. A group on social media who wanted to share the
good news released the news. On average, it means at least 4 gorillas were born
monthly.
This suggests that by the next grand
gorilla-naming ceremony also called the “Kwita Izina” in June next year, the
number will be definately higher as compared to any other period. During this
year’s ceremony, some 12 infants were named at the usually lavish annual event
in Kinigi, near their habitat.
Over 161 infant mountain gorilla
have been named since this ceremony was begun, inspired by the Rwandan naming
tradition following the birth of a new baby. It estimated hundreds of gorillas
are on Rwanda’s side of the massive area – some even escaping from neighboring
regions to join in.
The gorilla trekking adventures have become a
significant source of tourism revenue in the countries which are blessed with
the gorillas especially Rwanda. Last year, the tourism sector generated $281.8
million compared to $251.3 million the previous year, an increase of 17%. The
local people received 5% of this amount through the revenue sharing program.
40% of this went to people living around Volcanoes National Park, 30% to
Akagera National Park, and 30% to Nyungwe National Park
How do I book a hike to the Dian
Fossey Karisoke ? Do I need to join a group or can I do it alone?? Are there
other activities at the research center?
When planning to travel Rwanda to
Hike the Dian Fossey Tomb, its important to either book through a travel agent
with in Rwanda or ORTPN. Its necessary to give at least a 1 day notice prior to
your actual hiking date.
About the Dian Fossey Tomb
Dian Fossey was an America primatologists who took up a broad study and keen interest in studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda for a period of 18 years but was unfortunately murdered by gorilla poachers. Dian Fossey while doing her research set up a Karisoke Research camp between Mt. Visoke and Mt. Karisimbi in the Volcanoes national park. This is where the Karisoke name wasa derived basing on the two volcanoes.
Dian Fossey was an America primatologists who took up a broad study and keen interest in studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda for a period of 18 years but was unfortunately murdered by gorilla poachers. Dian Fossey while doing her research set up a Karisoke Research camp between Mt. Visoke and Mt. Karisimbi in the Volcanoes national park. This is where the Karisoke name wasa derived basing on the two volcanoes.
The Dain Fossey Tomb Hike
The hike starts at the same time as the Rwanda gorilla trekhence the clients have to be assembled at the Volcanoes park headquarters by 7:am to 7:30 for briefing. Not so many people do the Karisoke hike hence it may be you or your group plus your guide or ranger. The hike is usually muddy hence strong waterproof boots with good traction are needed, using the trekking stick is a must, in addition it’s a strenuous trek ad tough as trekking the Susa gorilla group. The trek offers two ways to start the Diana Fossey site, one is the flatter hill to the mountain, and the other one is cross through the mountain, go straight up, which is very hard and strenuous
The hike starts at the same time as the Rwanda gorilla trekhence the clients have to be assembled at the Volcanoes park headquarters by 7:am to 7:30 for briefing. Not so many people do the Karisoke hike hence it may be you or your group plus your guide or ranger. The hike is usually muddy hence strong waterproof boots with good traction are needed, using the trekking stick is a must, in addition it’s a strenuous trek ad tough as trekking the Susa gorilla group. The trek offers two ways to start the Diana Fossey site, one is the flatter hill to the mountain, and the other one is cross through the mountain, go straight up, which is very hard and strenuous
Upon reaching the site you will see
the house from where Dian Fossey was mysteriously murdered in 1985 but the more
peaceful is the place where she was buried just next to her favorite gorilla,
Digit and about 20 other mountain gorillas either killed by poachers or
suffered death for other reasons.
The Dian Fossey tomb’s headstone
reads:
No one loved gorillas more
Rest in peace, dear friend
Eternally protected
In this sacred ground
For you are home
Where you belong
No one loved gorillas more
Rest in peace, dear friend
Eternally protected
In this sacred ground
For you are home
Where you belong
Today, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
monitors ten mountain gorilla groups (out of 15 total) in Rwanda and is
managing a number of other projects to help conserve the gorillas and other
wildlife in the region.
This hike is a fantastic experience
physically, emotionally and intellectually. It is so inspiring to learn about
someone who was so dedicated and left a legacy that exists even today. If you
find yourself in Rwanda and you’re up for a challenge, I highly recommend the
hike.
The Park fee for this Karisoke Trek
is currently USD$ 75 per person, which includes the fee for the guide. The trek
starts at 07:00am from the Park Headquarters in Kinigi, from where visitors
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire