PEACE HAVEN

January 12, 2020

Land of a thousand hills

Sandip Hor is entranced by Rwanda’s beauty and treasures

Though the name of Central Africa’s Rwanda evokes me-mories of a shocking genocide in 1994, its 12 million strong population has decided to reconcile them-selves to the past and transform their tiny landlocked settlement into one of the most progressive nations on the continent. This magical transformation encourages over a million visitors to visit Rwanda annually and enjoy the land’s natural assets. These range from countless thickly forested undulating hills, volcanic mountain ranges, lush green tea plantations, streaming rivers and expansive lakes, to sprawling national parks teeming with wildlife – the most celebrated species of which are the rare mountain gorillas.

CAPITAL KIGALI As it spreads over ridges, hills and valleys, Kigali is a neat and green city, where people believe in forgiveness and love. Per-haps that’s why the only reminder of the 1994 carnage is the Kigali Genocide Memorial, built not only to remember the victims but also edu-cate people and ensure that such an atrocity never happens again anywhere in the world.

The locals, who speak both English and French, are very welcoming. And the best place to rub shoulders with them is in Nyamirambo – one of Kigali’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, which is packed with shops, markets, bars and restaurants.

GORILLA OUTING Two hours away to the northwest of Kigali is the Volcanoes National Park, which is home to endangered gorillas. Trekking through thick jungle terrain in this scenic sanctuary and spotting these primates is unquestionably Rwanda’s top attraction. Though the expedition is pricey, every dollar spent is worthwhile since it’s a once in a lifetime experience.

KWITA IZINA Steeped in cultural meaning, ancient custom and care for conservation, Kwita Izina is a unique festival held every September to name newborn gorillas. In addition to the naming ritual, the festivities include cultural programmes, fundraising concerts, seminars and workshops that attract thousands of visitors – including conservationists, rangers, communities, international celebrities and dignitaries.

WILDLIFE SAFARI A visit to Africa would be incomplete without sighting the Big Five – viz. lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. The Akagera National Park, which is located two hours northeast of Kigali, is the best place to see them while driving through dense savannah grasslands dotted with acacia trees.

CANOPY WALKWAY The Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to Africa’s largest mountain rainforest, chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. The icon here is the 160 metre long and 70 metre high canopy walkway, which provides a breathtaking view of the forest floor and surrounding mountains.