Village Walks around Akagera National Park – Stroll through the villages of the local people around Akagera National Park, and you will experience true love and acts of kindness.
These walks take you through four cultural experiences: the local production of beer and honey, cattle culture where the more cattle you own, the greater respect you receive, art and craft displayed around their houses and in their clothing, and celebration festivities with traditional food.
Each experience has its own charm, from milking cattle and participating in traditional dances to tasting fresh honey from the comb and preparing local food. The entire experience takes about three hours at a fee of twenty dollars.
The journey begins at Humure Refuge Village, which is a forty-minute drive from Akagera National Park. Once at the village, you will have the chance to prepare local dishes with the residents while watching young boys and girls dancing in the compound as a welcoming gesture.
As you continue to the north, you will find the Mutumba Hills. If you are short on time, there are luxury and moderate lodges nearby, such as the Ruzizi Tented Lodge (luxury) and Akagera Game Lodge (moderate).
Next, head to the Imigongo Art and Craft Centre, which has a deep history. It is said to have been originally decorated by Prince Kakira and is now managed by a group of women who share the idea of using cow dung to create wall art.
Their mission is to create job opportunities for youth and vulnerable women in the rural areas of Rwanda. This art centre was founded by two great men, Zacharie Ngenzi and Charles Ashimwe, who brought this beautiful art to life. To this day, the centre attracts art lovers from all over the world who come to admire this unique wonderland.
After that, you will be guided through cultural heritage activities, which include milking cattle and learning about the rituals surrounding milk—how it is treated and preserved for long periods.
You will also be shown the best ways to harvest pure honey and make traditional beer.
The fun in the villages continues until the drums stop, so don’t hesitate to visit the local people. By doing so, you become a blessing by supporting these humble income earners, though participation is entirely voluntary.
Trips to the local villages around Akagera National Park are incredibly rewarding and unforgettable.
Visit Akagera National Park in Rwanda with these recommended Rwanda tour companies or send us an inquiry below to book through us directly.
