Rwanda: From a Travel Designer’s Point of View

Jim and Mary-Beth Roane, the dynamic duo behind Roane Travel Design, recently embarked on a thrilling 3-night journey to Rwanda. This marked their first visit to the country, and they’re excited to share their unforgettable experiences with you. Join Jim as he uncovers the beauty, culture, and warmth of Rwanda.

Unexpected Rwanda: A Travel Revelation

I’ve been in the travel business for what feels like a lifetime. I’ve seen the world, from bustling metropolises to untamed wilderness areas. But nothing, absolutely nothing, could have prepared me for Rwanda.

I’ll admit, our expectations were high. After all, previous Roane Travel Design clients have raved about their Rwandan adventures for some time now. But even their glowing testimonials couldn’t fully prepare Mary-Beth and I for the experience we would have in this extraordinary country.

The moment we stepped off the plane in Kigali, I was struck by Rwanda’s understated beauty, lively people and a palpable sense of pride and unity. It’s a country where everyone, from the youngest child to the eldest elder, seems to share a common goal: to build a better Rwanda. 

As a history enthusiast, I was familiar with Rwanda’s tragic past.  Just 30 years ago, the nation endured a horrific genocide that shattered its very foundation. Yet, against all odds, the Rwandan people have rebuilt their country into a beacon of hope, harmony, and resilience. The government’s commitment to conservation, tourism and empowering its people, particularly women, is truly inspiring. It’s also a nation where women hold most of the representation in parliament – another powerful testament to Rwanda’s progressive nature. 

This is not a country defined by its past, but by its relentless pursuit of a brighter future and its deep dedication for the conservation of its beautiful land and prosperity of its people.

Travel tip – I would highly recommend reading “A Thousand Hills” by Steven Kinzor before you embark on a trip to Rwanda.

Modernity Meets Tradition in Kigali

Kigali, the capital, is a revelation. We spent 1 night in Kigali and quickly realized that this city defies expectations. Safe, clean, and surprisingly cosmopolitan, it’s a place where modernity is complemented by a deep-rooted feeling of authentic Rwandan warmth.

I was amazed by the city’s infrastructure, roads and more notably its cleanliness. I was told that in a collaborative effort with local businesses, each does their part once-per-month in physically keeping the city streets clean. Rwanda is also making massive strides in its efforts to eliminate single-use plastics, a refreshing change from many other destinations.

A highlight of our brief time in Kigali was our visit to the Genocide Museum. It was a truly sobering experience, a stark reminder of the country’s dark past. Yet, it shone as a testament to the Rwandan people’s strength and determination to never let such a tragedy happen again. To see how Rwanda has rebuilt itself, how it has embraced reconciliation and unity, is nothing short of inspirational. It is an unmissable experience in Rwanda, and I will gladly return to visit this center again.

Immersed in Nature: Virunga National Park

The next stop on our itinerary was a 2-night stay in the Virunga National Park, and it was breathtaking. The two-and-a-half hour drive is a feast for the senses, and it’s easy to understand why Rwanda is often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills.”. Lush green hills rolled into the distance, creating a landscape that I think about to this day. Scenery aside, our guide was knowledgeable and answered every question we posed, and effortlessly gave us an in-depth look at the country.

We loved our time in the Volcanoes National Park. Nestled amidst the Virunga Mountains, it’s renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and scenes of stunning volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests. And then there are the gorillas. 

In the presence of Gentle Giants

We started off our experience with an introductory talk with a gorilla doctor the night before our trek. This truly remarkable and insightful talk helped give us a deeper understanding of the experience we were about to embark on.

Trekking through the lush Volcanoes National Park was an incredible feeling. As we embarked on our semi-strenuous hike through the forest, my heart pounded with anticipation until the very moment we came across a family of gorillas. Encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience that words can’t truly capture. To be so close to such gentle giants, to observe their intricate social dynamics, was a moment of pure awe. I’ll never forget the feeling I got when a silverback gazed directly into my eyes.

Leaving the National Park still on a high, we headed to the Ellen Degeneres Campus for the Dianne Fossey Fund, a remarkable center dedicated to primate conservation. I was equally impressed by this establishment. Learning about the work being done to protect these incredible creatures we just spent time with was truly inspiring.

Rwanda: A Call to Return

Our time in Rwanda was far too short. As the owner of a travel agency, I had often thought of Rwanda as an add-on experience to an African safari. But Rwanda is a destination in its own right. It’s a country that demands your attention, a place that leaves you wanting more.

While our trip was brief, it left an undeniable mark on us. The Rwandan people are warm, welcoming, and incredibly proud of their country. There’s a sense of unity and purpose that’s infectious.

I’m often asked about “must-see” destinations. Rwanda is at the top of my list now.

I’m already planning my return as there is so much more to discover. I want to explore the stunning Lake Kivu, see the chimps at Nyungwe National Park and experience the thrill of a safari in Akagera National Park. And most importantly, I want to learn more about the country’s conservation efforts and women’s empowerment programs that are making such a difference in this incredible country.

Rwanda has captured my heart. It’s a country of resilience, beauty, and hope. It’s a place where the future is bright. And I can’t wait to share this extraordinary destination with our clients. Our sample itinerary unpacks what Rwanda could look like for you!