Major Tourism Events In Rwanda

Rwanda is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It is also home to a number of exciting events that attract international tourists throughout the year. Here are a few of the most popular events that will be taking place in Rwanda .

major-tourism-events-in-rwanda

Kigali Fashion Week

This is the premier fashion event in Rwanda. It features a runway show of the latest designs from the country and international designers. The event is held annually on November 23-26, in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

Kigali Fashion Week was founded in 2012 by Amahoro Project, a non-profit organisation that supports the development of the Rwandan fashion industry. The event has grown in popularity each year, and it now attracts designers from all over the world.Tickets are available online and at the door.

Kwibuka29 Memorial Walk

The Kwibuka29 Memorial Walk is held annually on December 28th in Rwanda.

Its primary purpose is to commemorate the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, a devastating chapter in Rwandan history.

  • Solemn and Poignant Event: The event is characterised by its solemn and poignant nature, reflecting the gravity of the historical events it commemorates.
  • Tribute to the Lives Lost: The memorial walk serves as a deeply moving tribute to the victims of the genocide. Participants engage in a collective act of remembrance, honouring the memories of those who perished.
  • Powerful Reminder of Resilience: Beyond the sadness and mourning, the memorial walk is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Rwandan people.
  • Symbol of Unity and Healing: The Kwibuka29 Memorial Walk is a symbolic gesture of unity for the Rwandan people. It provides a space for collective healing, fostering a sense of solidarity among participants as they remember and honour the past.
  • Opportunity for Coming Together: The event offers an opportunity for Rwandans from diverse backgrounds to come together, irrespective of their differences, to share in the collective grief and reflection.
  • Remembering Shared History: Through the memorial walk, participants remember and acknowledge their shared history. This communal remembrance reinforces a sense of national identity and collective responsibility.

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is an adventurous activity that involves hiking through lush rainforests to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.takes place from january to december, It is an unforgettable experience that allows you to encounter these gentle giants up close and appreciate their unique behaviour and social interactions.

gorilla-trekking

The most popular places for gorilla trekking are Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park and Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These parks are home to the largest populations of mountain gorillas in the world, making it a rare and special opportunity to see these endangered primates.

Lake Kivu Cycling Tour

The Lake Kivu Cycling Tour is a challenging but rewarding bike race that takes place around the shores of Lake Kivu in Rwanda. It is a great way to see the beautiful scenery of Rwanda and to challenge yourself physically.

The race is typically held on February 10-12, and is open to cyclists of all levels of experience. There are three different routes to choose from, ranging in distance from 30 kilometres to 100 kilometres. The race starts and finishes in the town of Gisenyi, which is located on the western shore of Lake Kivu.

Here are some tips for cyclists who are planning to participate in the Lake Kivu Cycling Tour:

  • Train for the race in advance. The course is challenging, so it is important to be in good physical condition.
  • Make sure you have the right equipment. You will need a bicycle, helmet, and cycling shoes.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks. The race is long, so you will need to stay hydrated and fueled.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions. The weather in Rwanda can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of weather.

Karongi Carnival

The Karongi Carnival is a vibrant celebration of Rwandan culture and music. It takes place on March 1-3,with the aim of showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of traditions and arts. Every year, the carnival attracts thousands of visitors from around the country and the world, eager to experience the unique cultural tapestry of the country.

Apart from the traditional performances and culinary delights, the Karongi Carnival also features a variety of other activities, including traditional games, handicraft stalls, and a vibrant marketplace. Visitors can also take part in workshops and demonstrations on various arts and crafts.

FAQS

Official tourism websites, event directories, and local news sources are great places to find details about upcoming tourism events. These sources typically provide information about event dates, venues, participating organisations, and activities.
Yes, many of these tourism events are open to international visitors. Depending on the event, visitors can participate as attendees, volunteers, exhibitors, or even competitors (in the case of events like the cycling race or marathon). Information on participation and registration is usually available on event websites or through organisers.
Events like the Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony celebrate Rwanda's conservation efforts and draw attention to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. cultural festivals showcase Rwanda's diverse traditions, music, dance, and art, attracting both locals and tourists.