There are some trips that linger in your memory and carve out a special space in your heart, and our hosted women’s trip to Rwanda this past November was undoubtedly one of those. This shared journey of discovery, empowerment, and connection, set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Africa’s most inspiring destinations, was a true bucket list experience.

From the moment we touched down in Kigali, the warmth and vibrance of Rwanda enveloped us. Our group of dynamic, adventurous women came together from different walks of life, united by a shared curiosity and a desire to explore. What followed was a 4 day journey filled with laughter, deep conversations, and unforgettable experiences.

Rwanda’s capital boasts a rich history with a hopeful future. Walking through Kigali, we explored the women’s market, a vibrant hub where local female artisans showcased their crafts, A celebration of Rwanda’s resilience and creativity, as many of the women are entrepreneurs working together and using their talents to uplift their communities. We left the market with beautiful handmade baskets, Kitenge gowns, jewellery, and hearts full of admiration.

We also took time to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial—a deeply moving experience that offered an understanding of Rwanda’s journey of healing and transformation. The memory of Rwanda’s heartbreaking experiences in 1994 gave a new lens to everything we had experienced so far and would continue to admire and love about Rwanda.

The highlight of our trip, without question, was our gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. Led by Ang, our remarkable female guide, we set off into the misty rainforest. Ang’s passion and expertise added so much to the experience, as she shared insights into gorilla behaviour and conservation efforts.

(Tip: Try the “African Coffee” at Park headquarters before heading out, a delicious blend of fresh ginger, cocoa and Rwandan coffee – the coffee stand here is also part of a female empowerment project)

After a beautiful forest hike, we found ourselves face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas. We had been allocated the Sabyinyo group, quite opposite to our female group of hikers, this group was predominantly male with 2 silverbacks and one black-back of a similar age. There are few words to describe the awe and emotion of watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. We wondered at the size of the males, the antics of the playful juveniles tumbling through the foliage, and a mother cradled her tiny baby, its hair frizzing in the light rain.

What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the places we visited but the bonds we formed. Evenings were spent sharing stories over delicious Rwandan meals, enjoying the views from our eco-luxury lodge, and revelling in the joy of being surrounded by like-minded women. These moments of connection reminded us of the power of travel to bring people together and inspire personal growth.

If you’re dreaming of your own Rwandan journey, here are a few tips to make it unforgettable:

1. Pack Smart: Comfortable, water proof clothing and sturdy hiking boots are a must for gorilla trekking. Don’t forget gloves to protect your hands in the forest and a mask for gorilla viewing.

2. Engage with the Local Culture: Spend time at local markets and try traditional dishes like “ibihaza” (pumpkin stew) or “ugali.” Engaging with the community adds depth to your experience.

3. Plan for Fitness: Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. Prepare by incorporating some hiking or cardio into your routine before the trip.

4. Be Present: Whether it’s standing in awe before gorillas or soaking in the views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, take time to be fully present and savour every moment.

Join Us for the Next Adventure

This women’s trip to Rwanda was a testament to the magic that happens when you combine breathtaking landscapes, meaningful experiences, and the camaraderie of incredible women. If you’re ready to plan your own journey of connection and adventure, we can’t wait to welcome you on our next hosted trip – keep an eye out for details.