Rwanda Rising: Coffee, Gorillas, and the Land of a Thousand Hills

Rwanda is often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and from the moment you land in Kigali, you understand why. The rolling green landscapes stretch endlessly, stitched with terraced farms, tea plantations, and red clay roads. But Rwanda is more than its breathtaking scenery, it’s a country with a complex past and a remarkable present.

Just three decades ago, Rwanda endured one of the darkest chapters in modern history, the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, in which over 800,000 lives were lost in just 100 days. Today, it is one of Africa’s safest, cleanest, and fastest-growing nations, driven by visionary leadership and a collective commitment to unity and progress.

Kigali: A City with Heart and History

Kigali is a city that feels both vibrant and reflective. Start your visit at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the victims. The exhibits walk you through the events leading up to the genocide, the tragedy itself, and the path toward reconciliation. It’s heavy, but it’s essential for understanding the resilience of the Rwandan people.

Hotel Rwanda

Afterward, Kigali opens up with bustling markets, colorful street murals, and a café culture you might not expect. The coffee here is outstanding, Rwanda’s high-altitude beans are some of the best in the world, with rich, chocolatey notes. Sitting in a local coffee shop, sipping a fresh pour-over, you can feel the energy of a country moving forward.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

No trip to Rwanda is complete without a gorilla trek. In the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park, you’ll hike with expert trackers to find one of the 12 habituated mountain gorilla families. The hike can be aggressive, but what a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch a silverback up close while they quietly chew bamboo or seeing a baby tumble through the undergrowth, it is like stepping into a nature documentary.

The trek is fairly challenging (steep hills, thick vegetation, and altitude), but the reward is worth every step. Permits are limited to protect the gorillas, so book well in advance.

Coffee at the Source

Beyond the cities, Rwanda’s hills are carpeted with coffee plantations. Many cooperatives welcome visitors for tours where you can pick cherries, see the washing process, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup with a view of the mountains.

The Thousand Hills

Whether you’re driving between Kigali and Musanze or down toward Lake Kivu, the landscapes are mesmerizing. Rolling hills give way to deep valleys, mist clings to the slopes in the mornings, and every turn offers a new photo-worthy view. It’s no wonder Rwanda is one of the most visually stunning countries in Africa.

Useful Tips Before You Go

• Visas: Many nationalities can get an e-visa online or a visa on arrival.

• Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February for gorilla trekking in drier conditions.

• Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF), but cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants.

• Safety: Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa—clean streets, low crime, and friendly locals.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination is required; malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

• Gorilla Permits: Book months in advance; price is about $1,500 USD per person.

• Connectivity: SIM cards are cheap and reliable; MTN has good coverage in most areas.

Rwanda is an incredible country, not only for the landscape and wildlife, but also for the impressive example of resilience. From Kigali’s history to the misty mountains of the gorillas, there is so much to see and experience in Rwanda!