Community tourism

Community-based tourism in Rwanda connects travelers with local culture through activities like weaving, dancing, and farming. It supports sustainable development by benefiting local communities, promoting cultural preservation, and offering authentic experiences that empower Rwandans.

Gorilla Guardians Village (Ibyiwacu Culture Village)

Gorilla Guardians Village, near Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, is a community initiative led by former poachers to support conservation and local livelihoods. Visitors experience traditional Rwandan culture and guided gorilla trekking, with tourism revenue funding education, healthcare, and community development projects.

Kimironko market

Kimironko Market in Kigali is a bustling hub, popular with both locals and tourists. It offers a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and clothing. The vibrant atmosphere, characterized by lively bargaining and colorful displays, provides an authentic glimpse into Rwandan culture and urban life.

Nyamirambo Women's Centre (NWC)

The Nyamirambo Women's Centre (NWC) in Kigali offers tourists cultural immersion through guided tours, workshops, and traditional performances. Founded in 2007 by Rwandan women, the center empowers the local community and promotes sustainable tourism. Visitors can also buy handmade products, directly supporting local artisans.

Nyungwe Culture Village

The Nyungwe Cultural Village, located near Nyungwe National Park, offers an immersive experience in traditional Rwandan life. Visitors engage in cultural activities like traditional dance, drumming, and exploring Rwandan huts. The village also provides hands-on workshops in weaving and pottery, allowing tourists to learn about local crafts. Set in a lush landscape, the village enriches understanding of Rwandan heritage while supporting the local economy and preserving traditions.

Kivu Hills Culture village

Kivu Hills Culture Village near Lake Kivu, 15 miles from Umutuzo Gendo, offers an immersive Rwandan cultural experience. Visitors engage in traditional dances, gastronomy, pottery, and weaving led by local artisans. The village also features storytelling sessions and guided nature walks with scenic views. This attraction supports sustainable tourism and local livelihoods.

Intore Cultural Center

In Rubavu, the Intore Cultural Center highlights Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage with traditional dance and music performances. Visitors can join in dance lessons, drumming sessions, and gain insights into the cultural significance of these practices in Rwandan society.

Akagera Community Tours

Near the National Park, the Akagera community tours provide a glimpse into the lives of local pastoralist communities. Visitors can observe cattle herding, traditional milking practices, and learn about the cultural significance of cattle in Rwanda. The tours also emphasize community conservation efforts and the impact of wildlife tourism on local livelihoods.

Bugesera Reconciliation Village

Situated south of Kigali, the Bugesera Reconciliation Village is a distinctive community where survivors and perpetrators of the 1994 genocide coexist in a spirit of reconciliation. Visitors have the opportunity to hear compelling stories of forgiveness and unity, gaining profound insights into Rwanda’s path toward peace and healing.

Gisovu Tea Plantation

In the Western Province, Gisovu Tea Plantation provides guided tours that cover the tea production process, from leaf picking to processing. Visitors can engage with local tea farmers and sample some of Rwanda's finest tea.