Rwanda Eco-tourism and Conservation
Eco-tourism is known as the responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education while Conservation is defined as commercial tourism which makes an ecologically significant net positive contribution to the effective conservation of biological diversity
Eco- tourism and wildlife conservation in Rwanda is an important aspect that is seriously undertaken by all government official and conservation agents responsible for protecting natural resources and wildlife by enforcing regulations related to hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and environmental protection within a designated area. Rwanda as a country is leaning on tourism to protect landscapes and wildlife species including endangered species like golden monkeys and mountain gorillas. The country has also got a wide range of other species to look after which include; mammals, birds, reptiles and many others.
Wildlife Conservation in Rwanda
Rwanda as a country, takes wildlife conservation topic with large projects to protect endangered species and their habitants. The wildlife policy in Rwanda lays out issues relating to crucial areas of wildlife sector and the Rwanda Development Board [RDB] which has put all necessary infrastructures in place. RBD has been giving support and investing different sectors like attracting international hotel brands and national parks. The ministry of National Resources of Rwanda is for environment, climate change and natural resources management at the local and national level.
The forests in Rwanda have provided around 86 percent of the primary energy source; the forestry sector alone contributes to 6 percent to the ministry’s GDP and supported agriculture which accounted for 26 percent of the GDP. Rwanda has an annual forest planting season where community service program encourages people to plant trees to increase forest coverage. Ecotourism allows as a more sustainable and thoughtful way to travel as we engage in conservation and protection.
Top Ecotourism Destinations in Rwanda
National parks, a coastal town, and an urban wetland are the Rwanda’s top ecotourism destinations.These locations are well-known for their conservation initiatives and Rwandan wildlife viewing opportunities.
National Parks
Rwanda as a country has four national parks, well protected wildlife reserves and ecosystems and includes the Akagera national park, Nyungwe National Park Gishwati-Mukura National Park, Volcanoes National Park and numerous water bodies
Akagera National Park
With a total area of 1,225 kilometers, Akagera National Park is the largest national park in Rwanda. The three most notable ones are Lake Ihema, Lake Shakani, and the River Kagera and even though they are all surrounded by water. Named for the Akagera River that flows along its eastern edge, Akagera National Park is home to 10 lakes.
Akagera is Rwanda’s big five destination that hosts populations of lions, leopards, elephants, black rhino and buffalo. It is a home of many antelopes like, water-buck, roan antelope and many others. Akagera activity fee include 40 USD per adult for night game drives, 25 USD per child for night game drive, Adult international visitors pay 100 USD per 1 day/night of stay
Things to do at Akagera National Park
Game drives: the park has experienced guides who will guide you during the game drive and give you information about the various animals you might get in contact with.
Nature walks: In addition to several breathtaking locations that are best seen up close, the park offers peaceful nature hikes.
Boat rides: boat rides on Lake Ihema where you can see one of the biggest concentrations of hippos in East Africa.
Bird watching: Akagera has got over 820 bird species, referred to as a birdwatchers dream destination.
Nyungwe National Park
In 2004, Nyungwe National Park was established in southwestern Rwanda. Nyungwe is home to a sizable mountain rainforest and with more than 1500 animal species. With the greatest forest area in Rwanda, Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Permission is required for all activities in Nyungwe and can be bought online.
Things to do at Nyungwe National Park
Birding
It is one of the activities in Nyungwe which is favorable for visitors. A home of over 250 bird species, bird watching costs; foreign non-residents pay $50 per person and foreign residents pay $40 per person
Natural Trial Hiking
The hiking trails in this park take 4 days to hike. Cost of Natural hiking; foreign non-residents pay $40 per person and foreign- residents pays $30 per person.
Canopy walk
The canopy walk is Nyungwe National Park’s most visited domestic tourism attraction and the first thing many visitors do there. A canopy walk which costs $60 per person for foreign non-residents and $50 per person for foreign residents.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most well-liked activities in Nyungwe National Park because of the abundance of chimpanzees there. The cost of the walk is $90 for non-resident foreigners and $60 for residents.
Coastal Town in Rwanda
Coastal towns are always located on the interface or transition areas between land and sea; they have access to the sea through ports. Along the shores of Lake Kivu, Rubavu, often called Gesenyi, is one of the biggest coastal cities. Rubavu is well-known for its resorts, beaches, and beach bars. The town is always busy with many vendors from Congo, several shops selling different materials are located here. For those who are funs of clubbing night life, Rubavu is the best place.
Urban Wetland in Rwanda
Nyandungu Urban Wetland is the most notable urban wetland in Kigali. An urban wetland is a wetland that surrounds a city. Paying a visit to Nyandungu will give a chance to learn the importance of wetlands for our environment. As a guest, you will have the opportunity to observe several bird species and other local wildlife. For those looking to experience ecotourism activities, Nyandungu Urban Wetland should be one of your best choices.
