As a seasoned African traveller, I've been fortunate to tick many items off my African travel bucket list and had my fair share of magical moments, from soaring above the Serengeti in a hot air balloon to meeting a leopard's eyes at Londolozi. However, despite this, nothing quite prepares you for travelling to Rwanda. There's something undeniably different about this country, and its commitment to tourism plays a huge role in this experience. The government has established a keen focus on eco-tourism in Rwanda, and its success is fast establishing a blueprint for other African countries to follow...
Rwanda's people are at the heart of this counrty's charms, Image Credit: Singita Kwitonda Lodge
Progressing from the Shadows of a Troubled Past
Rwanda has fast become a leader in sustainable tourism on the African continent. Revolutionary legislation and renewed focus have set a clear path for their future. Also known as "The Land of a Thousand Hills", Rwanda is among the greenest (both literally and figuratively) countries on our planet.
With initiatives such as banning plastic bags, animal conservation, and sustainable lodges, Rwanda is changing the face of eco-tourism. Furthermore, the streets of the capital, Kigali, are pristine, a rarity among African cities. There are no discarded food wrappers or plastic bottles, making it East Africa's cleanest city by far.
Kigali is rich in culture and history and known for being clean and safe
More Than Meets the Eye
The Rwandan government has focused on the importance of conservation in building a sustainable eco-tourism industry. In a similar vein, there has been a growing focus on animal conservation efforts in Rwanda. The resulting resurgence of the gorilla population and the reintroduction of lions and rhinos to Akagera National Park have been products of the focus on tourism.
As tourism begins to boom, the Rwandan government has ensured that eco-tourism is an absolute priority. Luxury lodges and properties have community and conservation initiatives that pledge to safeguard the future of tourism. There is far more to tourism than meets the eye, from reforestation efforts at Bisate Lodge to community initiatives that empower women at One&Only Gorilla's Nest.
Women empowerment forms part of Rwanda's tourism model
The Impact of Eco-Tourism in Rwanda on Locals
The tourism industry is actively empowering members of communities by making them key contributors to eco-tourism. As a nation, Rwanda takes collective responsibility for ensuring every visitor leaves with an incredible experience. Apart from its famous mountain gorillas, Rwanda truly shines in combining astonishing luxury with warm hospitality.
Undoubtedly, the renewed focus on tourism has brought a sense of meaning to the Rwandan people. And with their involvement, it's well on its way to being a truly symbiotic relationship.
Increased funding raised by a reinvigorated industry assists in housing and community upliftment. In return, the people of Rwanda work together to ensure this is a destination that truly touches your heart. All in all, it makes for the perfect representation of the Rwandan culture, her community, and her people.
Eco-tourism in Rwanda starts and ends with its own people, Image Credit: Wilderness Bisate
Five Ways Eco-Tourism in Rwanda is Succeeding
Rwanda has implemented multiple eco-tourism initiatives, but here are just a few ways they're making a difference.
1. Creating New National Parks
There are so many success stories in Rwanda when it comes to national parks, particularly Akagera, Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks. However, they keep fighting to protect Mother Nature by creating another legally protected area and the country's fourth national park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
Through these national parks, they've also managed to reintroduce species to the area, like lions to the Akagera National Park after being extinct for two decades. They also reintroduced rhinos and kept strengthening the population in the country.
Giraffes roaming free in the Akagera National Park, Image Credit: Abhishek Singh.
2. Bringing Mountain Gorillas Back From The Brink of Extinction
Through eco-sensitive gorilla trekking and various other tourism initiatives, Rwanda has managed to protect and increase the endangered mountain gorilla population, making them the only ape species to move from being critically endangered to endangered.
Rwanda is home to some of the world's last remaining populations of mountain gorillas, Image Credit: Singita Kwitonda
3. Low-Impact Travel Experiences
Rwanda has taken low-impact travel in their stride by focusing on low-volume travel and working with luxury lodges that share these values.
One&Only Gorilla's Nest is a secluded and luxurious forest haven set amongst the trees
4. Keeping Locals in The Spotlight
The local people form the golden thread of all eco-tourism in Rwanda. Therefore, the country aims to uplift local communities by giving a percentage of tourism revenue to its surrounding communities, which fosters pride and makes eco-tourism more sustainable for the future.
Eco-tourism in Rwanda is setting a benchmark for other African countries to follow
5. Incentivising Ecosystem Services
To inspire more people to focus on ecosystem services and promote environmental conservation, the Rwandan government introduced Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES). This effectively rewards service providers or an ecosystem service.
Rwanda is investing in a greener future
Let's Get You to Rwanda
If you're planning your next African adventure, Rwanda should be at the very top of your list. And, as African Travel Experts, Rhino Africa is here to help bring your next dream African holiday to life.
Contact us today, and let's start planning the ultimate African adventure – tailored to you!
