The figures were disclosed by Juliana Kangeli Muganza, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), in an exclusive interview with CGTN’s Zhang Meng on the sidelines of the 2026 China International Import Expo (CIIE), where she highlighted growing opportunities in tourism alongside expanding trade and investment ties.
“Over the last five years, we have seen Chinese tourism grow by four times, where we had about 3,000 tourists in 2021. And last year, we had about 14,000 tourists,” Muganza said.
The 9th China International Import Expo is taking place from November 5 to November 10, 2026.
Although the numbers remain modest, she said the upward trend was encouraging and expressed Rwanda’s interest in welcoming more Chinese travellers.
Muganza highlighted the country’s mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park as one of the attractions Chinese visitors should experience, describing it as a bucket-list destination.
“These are creatures that are endangered, and we’ve been doing a lot to conserve them. It’s very promising to see the numbers grow. So, that is definitely something I would call a bucket list item, and we would encourage Chinese tourists to see it,” she said.
She also recommended Akagera National Park, home to the Big Five, which offers safari experiences, and Nyungwe National Park, known for its waterfalls, primates, birdwatching opportunities and canopy walk.
Kigali, she added, offers facilities for business events, culinary experiences and cultural activities, making it another attraction for international visitors.
Beyond tourism, Muganza said Rwanda’s participation in the CIIE provides opportunities for local exporters to access the Chinese market.
She described China as a strong partner, noting that Rwanda exported goods worth approximately $160 million to China last year, an increase of 89% compared with the previous year. Bilateral trade between the two countries stands at about $1.4 billion.
Rwandan exporters attending the expo are showcasing products including chili peppers, macadamia nuts, coffee and tea.
Cooperation also extends to investment, with Chinese businesses establishing operations in Rwanda in sectors including agro-processing, EV manufacturing, construction and construction materials.
“We have been receiving a lot of investors coming from China, also from platforms such as the CIIE,” Muganza said. “And we have many that have already established in Rwanda.”
Rwanda and China established diplomatic relations in 1971.
People-to-people exchanges have also increased. In April 2026, China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi, said that the number of Rwandans visiting China rose from more than 3,500 in 2023 to approximately 7,000 in 2025, attributing the growth partly to visa facilitation measures and expanding bilateral exchanges.
Rwanda is seeking to attract more Chinese visitors by promoting its wildlife, natural landscapes, cultural experiences and business tourism opportunities.Visitors sample Rwandan products at the Rwanda Pavilion as the country showcases its exports and investment opportunities at CIIE 2026.
He made the remarks on November 5, 2026, in London, during an evening reception bringing together the Rwandan delegation and tourism partners, held following the conclusion of the World Travel Market (WTM) 2026.
Speaking on behalf of Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the UK, Johnston Busingye, Mugabutsinze said the gathering provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships established during three days of meetings and discussions among tourism industry professionals.
To illustrate his message, he cited a Rwandan proverb: “Akanyoni katagurutse ntikamenya iyo bweze”, which translates as: “A bird that does not travel does not know where the harvest is plentiful.”
He explained that the proverb highlights how stepping beyond familiar surroundings opens doors to new opportunities, broadens perspectives and encourages people to discover new possibilities. These values, he noted, are closely linked to tourism, which is built around travel, discovery and curiosity.
Addressing members of the Rwandan delegation, he expressed hope that they would return home with new business contacts and opportunities for further collaboration. He also encouraged international partners to take the next step by visiting Rwanda and experiencing its attractions firsthand.
“Our delegation came here to tell you about Rwanda. We warmly invite you to visit our country and discover it for yourselves,” he said.
He further highlighted Rwanda’s hospitality as a reflection of the friendship and warmth extended to visitors, noting that although the reception was held in London, it also offered an opportunity to share a taste of that welcoming culture.
Reflecting on the past 30 years, Mugabutsinze spoke about the significant transformation Rwanda has undergone, attributing it to long-term vision, national unity and a commitment to sustainable development.
He noted that, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, Rwanda has prioritised peace, resilience, forward-looking development and international engagement.
This vision, he explained, is also reflected in the country’s approach to tourism development, which contributes to economic transformation, community development and stronger international cooperation.
The diplomat also commended the role of tour operators, travel agencies, airlines and other industry professionals in connecting Rwanda with visitors from across the world.
“Through your experience, the advice you provide and the relationships you build with travellers, you help introduce Rwanda to new audiences and inspire them to discover our country,” he said.
He concluded by emphasising that the purpose of the reception went beyond showcasing Rwanda’s tourism attractions. It was also an opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange knowledge and explore new business partnerships that would benefit all parties.
The gathering brought together participants from various sectors.The Second Counsellor at the High Commission of Rwanda in the United Kingdom, Issa Mugabutsinze said the country has stepped up efforts to develop its tourism sector. Tourism professionals were invited to visit Rwanda and experience its diverse tourist attractions.
The country has continued to develop its tourism sector, positioning itself as a leading tourism hub in the region. In 2025, Rwanda welcomed more than 1.49 million visitors, generating $685 million in tourism revenue, up from $647 million recorded in 2024.
Speaking to IGIHE, Cédric Tuyisenge, Acting Head of Tourism Promotion at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), said the award reflects the country’s continued efforts to develop its tourism industry and promote its natural attractions internationally.
“The award Rwanda received is part of the annual recognition given by Wanderlust, a magazine that mainly focuses on destinations around the world that people can visit. Rwanda was selected among the top 10 countries, securing fifth place among the destinations travellers most wish to visit,” he said.
Tuyisenge noted that promoting Rwanda internationally goes hand in hand with providing visitors with a positive experience, as their feedback plays an important role in attracting more tourists.
“We see this as a positive outcome of the efforts we continue to make to promote Rwanda. However, the way visitors are welcomed and the experiences they share afterwards also contribute to attracting more people who wish to visit the country. Much of what publications write is based on feedback from people who have travelled here,” he explained.
Tuyisenge emphasised that the award is among the positive outcomes Rwanda has secured during the World Travel Market (WTM) London, while also serving as a reminder to maintain and improve the quality of its tourism services.
“This is a positive achievement coming out of WTM, but it also gives us a responsibility to continue doing even better so that Rwanda remains among the leading destinations people around the world wish to visit,” he said.
Rwanda participated in WTM London, held from November 3 to 5, 2026, where it showcased its natural attractions and tourism services under the Visit Rwanda brand. The country’s participation aimed to strengthen its position as a premium tourism destination, expand international partnerships and attract more visitors.
The Rwandan delegation comprised representatives from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the Embassy of Rwanda in the United Kingdom and several Rwandan tourism companies. Private-sector exhibitors showcased their products and services, engaged with international tourism professionals and explored new business opportunities.
The exhibition also provided Rwanda with an opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing partners, access new markets and encourage international tour operators to include Rwanda in their travel programmes.
Rwanda’s tourism offering extends beyond gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park and explore the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park. These attractions highlight the country’s rich biodiversity and its commitment to environmental conservation.
The country is also promoting Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, including business travel, international conferences and exhibitions. The Kigali Convention Centre hosts major conferences and high-level events, while the Rwanda Convention Bureau supports international organisers in bringing their events to the country.
WTM London was first held in 1980 at Olympia London, attracting 221 exhibitors from 40 countries and approximately 9,000 trade visitors. Over the years, it has grown into a major international tourism marketplace, bringing together participants from more than 180 countries, over 4,000 exhibitors and more than 46,000 attendees.
Cédric Tuyisenge says Rwanda’s fifth-place ranking among the world’s most desirable nature and wildlife destinations also comes with a responsibility to keep improving tourism services.Rwanda has been ranked fifth among the world’s most desirable destinations for nature and wildlife in the 2026 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.Visitors to Rwanda can experience wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, one of the country’s key nature and wildlife attractionsPrince Henry Charles Albert David also attended the ceremony.
Under the Visit Rwanda brand, the country is showcasing its tourism offering with the aim of strengthening its position as a leading luxury travel destination, expanding international partnerships, and attracting more international visitors.
The Rwandan delegation brings together the RDB, the Rwanda High Commission to the United Kingdom, and several Rwandan tourism companies.
Private-sector operators are showcasing their products and services, engaging with international tourism professionals, and exploring new business opportunities in global markets.
This coordinated presence underscores Rwanda’s commitment to developing a competitive tourism sector while increasing the international visibility of its tourism businesses and strengthening their connections with global industry partners.
Rwanda’s participation in WTM London is part of a broader strategy to promote the country’s tourism attractions to key international stakeholders, including tour operators, travel agencies, investors, hospitality professionals, and travel media.
WTM London offers Rwanda a platform to expand tourism partnerships
Rwanda’s participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) London primarily aims to strengthen international tourism partnerships and turn destination awareness into new business opportunities.
Under the Visit Rwanda brand, the country seeks to deepen existing trade relationships, reach new markets, and encourage international travel companies to include Rwanda in their travel programmes.
Launched in 1980 at Olympia London with 221 exhibitors from 40 countries and 9,000 trade visitors, WTM London has grown considerably over the years.
Today, the event brings together participants from more than 180 countries, over 4,000 exhibitors, and more than 46,000 attendees.
Its programme combines business networking opportunities with discussions on emerging travel trends, technological innovations, and sustainable tourism.
Over the years, the event has established itself as a major international meeting point for tourism destinations, travel buyers, and industry businesses.
Rwanda’s tourism offering extends beyond mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. It also includes wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park and rainforest experiences in Nyungwe National Park.
Together, these destinations offer a diverse range of nature-based experiences, highlighting the country’s rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation.
Business tourism, particularly Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), is another important pillar of Rwanda’s tourism offering.
The Kigali Convention Centre hosts regional and international conferences, exhibitions, and meetings, while the Rwanda Convention Bureau supports international event planners and organisers in preparing their activities in Rwanda.
Through targeted business meetings, media engagements, and private-sector participation at WTM London, Rwanda aims to connect its tourism offering with international buyers, expand its tourism distribution network, and establish long-term commercial partnerships.
Cedric Tuyisenge Ag. Division Manager Tourism Marketing at RDB Aimable Rutagarama Head of the Tourism Department at the Rwanda Chamber of Tourism, under the Private Sector Federation (PSF).Reuben Mbonye , Ag. CCO RwandAir is also present at the trade fair
But Nanjing offers far more than its celebrated cuisine, from historic landmarks and lively riverside streets to peaceful green spaces and the warmth of its people.
I got my first glimpse of this appeal as I made my way from Kigali to Nanjing recently. My journey took me through Ethiopia to Shanghai, before I boarded a high-speed train to Jiangsu Province.
After the long flight and several connections, arriving in Nanjing brought welcome relief. The warm reception and friendliness of the people made the transition easier, while the efficient transport connections offered an early glimpse of the infrastructure linking cities across China.
I was visiting Nanjing to attend the 2026 Belt and Road Journalists Network Forum, held from October 12 to 17, alongside activities related to the Global South Journalists Workshop.
Beyond the meetings, however, Nanjing offered an opportunity to experience a city where history, culture, education and modern life come together.
Located in eastern China, Nanjing is the capital of Jiangsu Province and one of the country’s historic capitals. Its character emerges as you explore, with traditional architecture standing alongside busy streets, quiet lakeside paths offering a break from the urban bustle, and residents going about their daily lives.
A city where history lives on
One of Nanjing’s most significant sites is the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders. It commemorates the atrocities committed after Japanese forces captured the city on December 13, 1937, when Nanjing was China’s capital.
The massacre lasted about six weeks, during which over 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers were killed.
Historical documents, photographs and testimonies at the memorial present the human cost of the violence. Walking through the exhibitions offers a solemn encounter with a defining episode in the city’s past and a reminder of the importance of preserving historical memory.
Yet Nanjing’s story did not end with the tragedy. The city continued to evolve, rebuilding its life and identity while preserving the memory of those who lost their lives.
Other landmarks reveal different chapters of Nanjing’s history. The Presidential Palace offers insight into the republican era, while the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, set among the wooded slopes of Purple Mountain, commemorates the revolutionary leader associated with the end of imperial rule.
The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum and surviving sections of the Ming-era city wall provide further glimpses into the city’s imperial past.
The Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders commemorates more than 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers killed during the massacre that followed the Japanese capture of Nanjing in 1937.
Finding quiet among the city’s green spaces
As daylight fades, the area around the Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River becomes one of Nanjing’s most inviting destinations.
Traditional buildings glow beneath evening lights as boats move along the water. Visitors wander through narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, stopping to sample local snacks or admire the views from stone bridges.
There is a lively atmosphere, but also room to slow down and take in the surroundings. A boat ride offers a different perspective on the historic architecture, while a walk along the river brings visitors closer to the city’s everyday rhythms.
Food is an essential part of the experience. Nanjing is particularly known for salted duck, a local speciality prepared using a traditional salting and cooking process.
Duck blood and vermicelli soup is another dish associated with the city. Together, these flavours offer an introduction to regional cuisine and help explain why food is such a distinctive part of Nanjing’s identity.
The pleasure of exploring also lies in everyday encounters. The friendliness of the people, the welcome extended to visitors and the opportunity to experience local life beyond the main attractions all contribute to the city’s appeal.
Nanjing is not defined by historic buildings and busy streets alone. Xuanwu Lake offers walking paths, gardens and open views across the water, with the city’s skyline and historic wall providing a striking backdrop.
Purple Mountain combines wooded landscapes with cultural and historical attractions, allowing visitors to spend time outdoors while exploring the city’s heritage. These green spaces provide a welcome change of pace from the urban centre.
Visitors explore the historic streets around the Confucius Temple, lined with traditional architecture, shops and restaurants.The Qinhuai River flows through Nanjing, offering scenic waterfront views lined with traditional architecture and stone bridges.
A city of learning and international connections
Nanjing’s appeal also comes from its reputation as a centre of education and research. It is home to numerous universities, including Nanjing University, one of China’s prominent institutions of higher learning.
Welcoming journalists to the city, Zhou Hongbo, secretary of the CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee, described Nanjing as “an ancient capital of six dynasties and ten regimes” and “a major central city in eastern China and a major metropolitan centre in the Yangtze River Delta.”
Zhou said nearly one million students were enrolled across 54 universities in the city. He also highlighted Nanjing’s history of international engagement, recalling that Chinese navigator Zheng He set sail from the city more than 600 years ago on voyages that opened avenues for exchanges across the seas.
Today, China-Europe freight trains departing from Nanjing connect the city with more than 60 cities in 15 countries, reflecting its place in China’s wider transport and trade networks.
The city also became a meeting place for international journalists. Following the forum, Nanjing University hosted a Global South Journalists Workshop from October 18 to 20, bringing journalists together to exchange experiences and discuss the media’s role in international communication.
The wider programme also took journalists to other cities in Jiangsu, including Changzhou, Suzhou, Nantong and Lianyungang, offering a broader view of a province where historic towns, industrial centres and modern transport infrastructure form part of a wider development story.
For visitors, Nanjing’s appeal lies in the variety of experiences it offers: a solemn encounter with history, an evening beside the Qinhuai River, the flavours of local food and the tranquillity of its lakes and wooded hills.
I arrived after a long journey from Kigali for a journalism forum, but the city’s welcoming people and varied attractions made the visit memorable well beyond the meetings. And, after learning about its famous salted duck and tasting it, I finally understood the humour behind the saying that no duck leaves Nanjing alive.
Journalists who attended the Global South Journalists Workshop at Nanjing University pose for a group photo during the graduation ceremony on October 20, 2026.Nanjing is famous for its salted duck, a local speciality prepared using traditional salting and cooking methods.The area around the Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River remains busy with visitors exploring shops, and sampling local food.Purple Mountain combines wooded landscapes with historic landmarks, including the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, offering visitors a glimpse of Nanjing’s cultural heritage. Nanjing is home to modern high-rise buildings and major conference facilities. The International Youth Convention Center is among the landmarks shaping the city’s skyline.Inside the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, historical documents, photographs and testimonies recount the atrocities committed during the massacre.Nanjing blends historic architecture with modern urban development, with traditional landmarks and contemporary buildings forming part of the city’s landscape.Exhibitions at the memorial preserve the stories of victims and document one of the most tragic chapters in Nanjing’s history.The warm reception extended to visitors in Nanjing offered welcome relief after a long journey involving several connections before arrival in Jiangsu Province.China-Europe freight trains departing from Nanjing connect the city with destinations across Eurasia, linking China with international trade networks.
The figures are contained in the park’s third-quarter activity newsletter, released on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Of the 15,790 visitors recorded during the quarter, 13,911 paid entrance fees. Average spending per visitor rose to $162 in September, 22% higher than in the same month in 2025 and the highest level recorded since 2010.
During the quarter, the park hosted several events, including the African Parks Management Meeting, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, the Akagera Trail Marathon and Kwita Izina.
Fire management and community livelihoods
A total of 16,631 hectares of the park had burned by August, according to the report. Approximately one-third of the burned area resulted from prescribed management burns, including block burns and firebreaks, while the remainder was attributed to unplanned fires.
The latter were caused by accidental ignitions in neighbouring communities or deliberate fires linked to poaching.
The park’s fire management programme involved planned burns, close monitoring and rapid response to reduce fuel loads in grassland and woodland areas and protect wildlife habitats from more destructive fires. The rains arrived in mid-September, providing relief after the dry season.
Meanwhile, fish farming continued to support community fisheries and local food supplies.
In July, Akagera Management Company stocked 50,000 mixed-sex tilapia fingerlings in Gacaca Valley Dam, a four-hectare water body in Murundi Sector. In August, Mubari Farmer Cooperative Society stocked a further 23,000 fingerlings in Cyamusenyeri Valley Dam, also in Murundi Sector.
Community enterprises generate over $416,000
Community enterprises and local procurement generated a combined $416,893 in economic benefits during the quarter, the report shows.
Fishing, beekeeping, community centres, freelance guiding and building cooperatives generated $158,322, while local procurement contributed another $258,571.
Fishing cooperatives generated $38,649, while the Akagera builders’ cooperative and casual labourers generated $67,887.
Environmental education and community outreach activities reached 52,958 people through school programmes, community and cooperative meetings, awareness campaigns, radio broadcasts and educational visits to the park, among other initiatives.
Elephant identification database expands
Fieldwork during the quarter identified 55 known elephants belonging to two bonding groups, according to the report.
Three additional elephants were added to the park’s identification database, bringing the total number of identified individuals to 121, equivalent to 85.2% of the known elephant population.
The database supports long-term monitoring of individual elephants and the wider population, helping conservation teams track changes over time.
Park begins drone training for rhino monitoring
Akagera’s rhino monitoring teams continued daily patrols on foot and from the air, recording 2,517 white rhino observations and 413 black rhino observations during the quarter.
After obtaining the necessary permits, rhino trackers began a three-week practical training programme on operating drones to strengthen monitoring capacity.
Two rangers and three rhino trackers also attended black rhino monitoring training at Liwonde National Park in Malawi.
The training is intended to strengthen the teams’ skills in monitoring and protecting the park’s rhino population.
During the period under review, the park also completed a large carnivore camera trap survey during the quarter, deploying 85 cameras across 57 sites. The cameras have captured more than three million images, which conservation teams are analysing to identify individual leopards and hyenas, estimate population trends and assess the relationship between predator populations and the growth of the park’s lion population.
The findings are expected to inform future conservation strategies.
Established in 1934, Akagera National Park covers 1,122 square kilometres and is home to more than 11,300 animals.
Its wildlife includes 60 lions, 142 elephants, 4,000 buffaloes, 115 giraffes, between 80 and 100 leopards, and 145 rhinos.
The park also hosts about 2,000 zebras, 1,500 impalas, between 120 and 150 hyenas, between 1,500 and 1,800 hippos, 1,000 inyemera and more than 1,000 indonyi. It is also home to 179 butterfly species.
With approximately 500 bird species, Akagera has the highest recorded bird diversity among Rwanda’s national parks, according to the report. Nyungwe National Park has about 300 bird species, while Gishwati-Mukura and Volcanoes National Parks have fewer.
Established in 1934, Akagera National Park covers 1,122 square kilometres and is home to more than 11,300 animals.Akagera National Park generated more than $1.5 million (Rwf2.2 billion) in commercial revenue from 15,790 visitors between July and September 2026.
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera welcomes visitors with wide open grasslands, sprawling lakes, vibrant wetlands, and rich wildlife. Whether travelling with friends, family, or on a solo adventure, the park offers tailored experiences that can turn an ordinary weekend into a memorable safari escape.
Beyond its natural beauty, a visit to Akagera is an opportunity to witness one of Africa’s greatest ecological restoration stories. Managed jointly by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and African Parks, the reserve was restored to Big Five status following the successful reintroduction of lions in 2015 and black rhinos in 2017, followed by white rhinos.
Today, backed by robust community partnerships and vigilant anti-poaching teams, Akagera’s wildlife populations are thriving across diverse habitats.
The classic game drive
One of the most exciting ways to explore Akagera is through a classic game drive. The park is home to Africa’s Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes—alongside giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and hundreds of bird species.
Tourists photograph an elephant during a game drive in Akagera National Park.
Each drive offers a fresh perspective as visitors traverse changing landscapes, moving from woodland to open plains in search of animals in their natural habitats. Although sightings are never guaranteed, the thrill of anticipation is an integral part of the adventure.
For visitors planning a day trip, an early start is essential. The park allows self-drive exploration between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. A high-clearance four-wheel-drive (4×4) vehicle is strongly recommended for navigating the park’s dirt tracks and seasonal terrain.
To maximize your wildlife spotting, hiring an official park guide at the entrance ($25 for half-day, $40 for full-day) is highly recommended—their trained eyes drastically increase your chances of tracking elusive big cats.
Discover the park after dark
For those spending the night inside the park, a guided night drive offers an exclusive look into Akagera’s nocturnal wildlife. Guided by experienced park rangers using powerful spotlights, visitors may encounter species rarely seen during the daytime, such as bush babies, civets, genets, and hyenas.
A leopard prowls through the thick vegetation of Akagera National Park during a nocturnal safari.
Night drives also offer a thrilling chance to see predators actively moving and hunting after sunset. Night drives cost $40 per person (2.5-hour duration), are available exclusively to overnight guests, and should be booked in advance at the reception.
Cruise across Lake Ihema
A boat trip on Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second-largest lake after Lake Kivu, offers a peaceful yet exhilarating perspective of Akagera. Moving along the water, visitors can observe vast pods of hippos, large Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, and a myriad of waterbirds fluttering along the papyrus-lined shores.
Scheduled boat excursions operate daily.
Scheduled boat excursions operate daily at 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 3:00 PM ($35 per person). The highly sought-after 4:30 PM sunset trip ($45 per person) offers spectacular views as the setting sun paints golden hues across the serene waters.
A paradise for birdwatchers
Akagera is a premier destination for birdwatchers, boasting over 500 recorded species. Its unique wetland habitats, lakes, and savannah ecosystems attract a vast variety of waterbirds, raptors, and rare species, including the elusive Shoebill stork around the northern swamps.
Akagera is a premier destination for birdwatchers, boasting over 500 recorded species.
Visitors are encouraged to pack binoculars and spend time observing birdlife around Lake Ihema and the park’s wetland boardwalks. Even travelers without specialized ornithological knowledge will find the incredible variety and vibrant plumage of Akagera’s birds captivating.
Where to stay & refresh
Rather than rushing back to Kigali after a day in the park, extending your trip with an overnight stay allows you to experience early-morning game viewings and evening activities that aren’t feasible on a day trip. Akagera offers accommodation for every style and budget:
Luxury: Ruzizi Tented Lodge — Eco-luxury tented lodge situated directly on the timber decks of Lake Ihema, offering an intimate wilderness experience.
Ultra-Luxury: Magashi Camp — An exclusive, high-end tented camp located in the game-rich sector of the far north.
Mid-Range Comfort: Akagera Game Lodge (Mantala) — Perched on a ridge near the South Gate, featuring comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and sweeping lake views—ideal for families.
Budget & Camping: Designated campsites such as Shakani (lakeside), Muyumbu (ridge views), and Mutamba offer serene spots to camp under the stars for $25/night per person. Canvas tents are also available for hire.
Magashi Camp is an exclusive, high-end tented camp located in the game-rich sector of the far north.Lions were reintroduced to Akagera National Park in 2015.
Essential logistics & travel planning
Distance & Drive Time: 110 km from Kigali (~2.5 hours on paved tarmac to the South Gate in Kayonza). Leaving Kigali by 5:00 AM gets you to the gate as it opens at 6:00 AM.
Park Entry Fees (24-hr Pass): Rwandan/EAC Citizens: RWF 15,000 | EAC Residents: $50 USD | International Visitors: $100 USD.
Vehicle Fees & Payments: Rwandan/EAC registered light vehicles pay ~$10–$12 USD. Akagera operates a 100% CASHLESS payment system (MTN Mobile Money, Visa, MasterCard, or Bank Transfer at the gate).
Essential Packing List: Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, dust mask/buff, sunscreen, sun hat, warm layers for chilly morning drives, and plenty of snacks/water.
Whether you have a single day or an entire weekend, Akagera National Park delivers the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation. For a one-day visit, prioritize a early 6:00 AM game drive followed by an afternoon boat excursion on Lake Ihema. Those staying overnight can enrich their itinerary with a night drive or dedicated birdwatching.
For anyone feeling the need to step away from Kigali without leaving Rwanda, Akagera offers a powerful reminder that world-class wilderness, thriving wildlife, and moments of pure calm are closer to home than expected.
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera welcomes visitors with wide open grasslands, sprawling lakes, vibrant wetlands, and rich wildlife.
Here, modern industrial parks, research laboratories and emerging technologies exist alongside centuries-old gardens, historic neighbourhoods and waterways that remain part of everyday life.
Located in Jiangsu Province, close to Shanghai and at the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, Suzhou has developed into one of China’s major economic centres.
Founded in 514 BC, the city has more than 2,500 years of history. Over time, it has also become an important destination for investment, industrial development and international cooperation under China’s reform and opening-up policy.
This dynamic blend of heritage and modern enterprise was recently on display for a delegation of media representatives attending the 2026 Belt and Road Journalists Forum in Jiangsu Province, who toured Suzhou to gain firsthand insight into its industrial development, technological innovation, cultural heritage, and rural life.
From international cooperation to a global innovation hub
Suzhou Industrial Park was established in 1994 through cooperation between China and Singapore. The partnership drew on Singapore’s experience in investment promotion, urban planning and public administration as China developed the park into a destination for international investment and industrial activity.
More than three decades later, the park is home to businesses operating in advanced manufacturing, research and technology.
The park is part of a wider network of industrial and innovation zones in China that support trade, investment and cooperation with international partners. Trade between China and Belt and Road partner countries reached RMB 1.27 trillion (over US$ 189 billion) in 2025.
Suzhou is also home to BioBAY, an innovation hub specialising in biotechnology and life sciences. Established nearly two decades ago, it hosts more than 680 innovative high-tech companies and around 35,000 scientific and technological professionals. Companies based there work in areas including innovative medicines, high-end medical devices, cell and gene technologies, nucleic acid therapeutics and synthetic biology.
Medical technology has also advanced in ways that can have lasting effects on patients. A person who received a heart implant eight years ago is now 68 years old.
In another area of technological development, AISpeech Co Ltd specialises in conversational artificial intelligence and voice technologies. Its work includes developing systems that allow people to interact with digital devices through speech, as well as AI applications for smart homes, vehicles and smart-city services. These technologies enable devices and digital systems to respond to spoken instructions, provide information and support everyday tasks.
Kunshan town, which is administered by Suzhou, is home to the World’s First Robot 6S Store. Covering approximately 1,000 square metres, the facility brings together more than 100 brands and offers sales, spare parts, servicing, surveys, leasing and customised solutions.
Its product range includes humanoid robots, industrial robots, drones and other AI-related products. The store brings together product sales and services related to the selection, maintenance and use of robotic equipment.
A modern city preserving its cultural identity
Beyond its industrial parks and technology businesses, Suzhou retains a historic urban landscape shaped by canals, traditional architecture, gardens and narrow streets.
Pingjiang Road is one of the city’s best-preserved historic districts. Waterways run alongside streets lined with traditional buildings, with small bridges connecting the banks.
White walls and dark-tiled roofs give the neighbourhood a distinctive appearance. The area contains more than 100 protected heritage sites and numerous elements of Suzhou’s historic urban landscape.
Narrow lanes lead past traditional homes, small shops and waterside buildings, while boats move along the canals that have long formed part of the neighbourhood.
Lion Grove Garden, established in 1342, is known for its elaborate rock formations, some of which resemble lions. The garden follows traditional Chinese landscaping principles, combining rocks, pathways, plants, pavilions and water features within a carefully arranged space.
Winding passages lead visitors between tall, irregular rock formations, through narrow openings and sheltered spaces before opening onto courtyards and pavilions. Trees and other vegetation provide shade throughout the garden.
A different architectural approach can be found at the Suzhou Museum of Contemporary Art, designed by the Danish architectural firm BIG.
The complex comprises interconnected structures whose design draws inspiration from classical Chinese gardens. Its buildings, courtyards and pathways create transitions between enclosed galleries and outdoor spaces.
Jinji Lake is located in the central part of Suzhou Industrial Park, in eastern Suzhou. The freshwater lake covers approximately 7.4 square kilometres, while the wider scenic area extends across about 11.5 square kilometres. Its waterfront is surrounded by commercial buildings, cultural facilities, hotels and public spaces.
The area includes the Suzhou Culture and Arts Centre, Suzhou International Expo Centre and Suzhou Jinji Lake International Convention Centre. Other landmarks include the Oriental Gate, Suzhou Center, Eslite Bookstore and Ligong Causeway, a waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and other businesses.
Walking paths connect sections of the lakeside, offering views of the water and the surrounding skyline. The area also accommodates exhibitions, cultural performances, sporting events and other public activities, alongside shopping, dining and recreational facilities.
Rural life is another part of Suzhou’s landscape. Shangmingdian Village, located in Zhangpu Town in Kunshan, combines traditional agricultural activities with efforts to develop rural tourism and new business opportunities.
Farmland, waterways and village settlements form part of the local landscape, while crop cultivation remains an important aspect of rural livelihoods. Agricultural development initiatives in the area include improvements to farmland and village infrastructure, alongside activities involving agricultural production, countryside recreation and tourism.
The village’s development also involves finding new uses for existing spaces and encouraging businesses associated with cultural tourism, creative industries and innovation. Such activities take place alongside farming and other established rural pursuits, providing additional avenues for local economic activity.
Across Kunshan town, rural tourism initiatives connect villages, agricultural landscapes and traditional settlements, giving visitors opportunities to explore areas beyond the main urban centres.
During a briefing for the visiting journalists, Dr. Zheng Changzong, Director of the Research Center for Party Building and National Development at Fudan University, described Suzhou as a live example of how international cooperation extends beyond industrial growth to shared human progress.
Reflecting on history, ancient Silk Road trade, and collective responsibility, Dr. Zheng emphasized that real progress in an interconnected world is built on mutual support rather than zero-sum competition.
“We live on the same planet, and our lives are interconnected. If I want to live well, I should also hope that you can live well. The objective should be to create opportunities for countries to develop together, rather than treating development as a process in which one country’s progress must come at the expense of another.”
At Lion Grove Garden, one can see elaborate rock formations, winding pathways, and historic pavilions highlighting 14th-century landscaping.At BioBAY, a specialized life sciences hub hosts over 680 high-tech biotechnology and medical companies. This photo shows the entrance of BioBAY in Suzhou.Inside BioBAY’s research facilities, scientists develop advanced medical devices, including heart implants.Inside Kunshan’s World’s First Robot 6S Store, visitors can explore humanoid robots and industrial equipment.Historic lanes along Pingjiang Road preserve more than 100 protected heritage sites amidst active neighborhood life.Local farmers in Shangmingdian Village showcase fresh agricultural produce grown through traditional farming practices.Performances of traditional folk songs form an integral part of Shangmingdian’s local culture and heritage.Skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and public promenades line the vibrant waterfront of Jinji Lake in eastern Suzhou.Dr. Zheng Changzong, Director at Fudan University, speaks to international journalists about international exchange and shared development.Lion Grove Garden follows traditional Chinese landscaping principles.Traditional village homes and modern renovated residences sit along scenic waterways, reflecting the improved living conditions and countryside lifestyle in Shangmingdian Village.Located in Jiangsu Province, close to Shanghai and at the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, Suzhou has developed into one of China’s major economic centres.
Akagera National Park has become Rwanda’s only Big Five destination, offering visitors the chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes and leopards in a landscape of savannah, woodland, wetlands and lakes.
Its transformation has also created more activities, accommodation and reasons for travellers to spend longer exploring Rwanda.
The return of lions is one of the clearest signs of the change. After being locally extinct in Akagera, seven lions were reintroduced in 2015, followed by two males in 2017 to strengthen genetic diversity.
The population has since reproduced successfully and reached around 70 lions by 2026. Conservation managers are now using fertility-control measures to manage the growing population while maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Rhinos tell a similar story. Eighteen eastern black rhinos were reintroduced in 2017 after a decade-long absence, followed by five more in 2019.
In 2021, 30 southern white rhinos were introduced, and another 70 arrived from South Africa in June 2025.
African Parks says the 2021 group had grown to 41 animals before the latest translocation.
Elephants have also multiplied from a small founding population. Akagera’s latest survey put the number at at least 115, all descendants of 26 elephants relocated to the park in 1975.
The park also has at least 3,300 buffaloes and an estimated 60 leopards.
The attraction, however, is not simply the Big Five. Akagera contains a mosaic of savannah, woodland, wetlands and lakes that supports almost 500 recorded bird species, making it an important destination for birdwatchers as well as conventional safari visitors. The park has also recorded 179 butterfly species.
That biodiversity is being turned into a broader visitor experience. Travellers can go on game drives, boat trips, guided walks and birdwatching excursions, while guided rhino walks provide a closer experience with one of the park’s conservation success stories.
Accommodation options include Ruzizi Tented Lodge, Karenge Bush Camp and Magashi, allowing visitors to stay within or close to the park and experience the landscape over several days rather than making a short safari visit.
The tourism infrastructure has developed alongside the wildlife recovery. Karenge has been renovated, while the Magashi Peninsula has expanded the park’s accommodation offering.
These investments matter because they turn wildlife recovery into a complete tourism product: visitors need somewhere to sleep, activities to choose from and reasons to remain in the destination.
The economic results are increasingly visible. In 2024, tourism generated 97% of Akagera’s total revenue, with the park earning more than US$4.7 million in total revenue and welcoming 56,219 visitors.
In 2025, paying visitors increased by 7%, while commercial activities; including tourism, hospitality, leisure and fisheries, generated more than US$5 million, a 4% increase from the previous year.
That year was also the first in which Akagera no longer required operational funding from RDB, covering its operating costs through self-generated revenue.
The benefits extend beyond the park. Akagera employs more than 300 full-time staff, the vast majority from surrounding communities, while 10% of its income contributes to Rwanda’s Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme.
Nationally, more than Rwf23 billion has been reinvested through the programme in nearly 1,300 community projects, including schools, health facilities, water infrastructure and livelihood initiatives.
In 2025, elephant identification projects documented 92 individuals, representing about 75 percent of Akagera National Park’s estimated 142 elephants.
Akagera’s growth is part of a wider expansion of Rwanda’s nature-based tourism offer. Volcanoes National Park continues to draw visitors for mountain gorilla and golden monkey trekking, while Nyungwe offers chimpanzee tracking, forest trails and its canopy walkway and has UNESCO World Heritage status. Gishwati-Mukura adds another protected forest ecosystem.
For travellers, this diversity has made it possible to combine very different experiences. Tour operators can package gorilla trekking with safari, forest exploration, cultural encounters, hiking and other outdoor activities, giving visitors reasons to stay longer and explore beyond a single attraction.
Rwanda generated a record US$685 million in tourism revenue in 2025 from 1.49 million visitor arrivals, while its national parks recorded 155,394 visits and US$40.8 million in revenue.
Rwanda has set a target of reaching US$1.1 billion in annual tourism revenue by 2029.
Akagera National Park has become Rwanda’s only Big Five destination, offering visitors the chance to see lions.Akagera National Park is home to diverse species including giraffes. Leopards are also found in Akagera National Park. Akagera is home to a large number of bird species. In 2025, elephant identification projects documented 92 individuals, representing about 75 percent of Akagera National Park’s estimated 142 elephants. A hippopotamus has large, powerful teeth. It is among species found in Akagera National Park. Akagera National Park received nearly 60,000 visitors in 2025.
The figure represents the country’s export of travel services, spending by non-resident visitors while in Rwanda, and marks an increase from $151.4 million (Rwf222 billion) recorded in the first quarter of the year.
The survey, conducted jointly by NISR, the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR), the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE), gathered data from travellers at 11 border points, including Kigali International Airport, between May and July 2026.
Air travel dominates earnings
Visitors arriving by air accounted for the bulk of the earnings, contributing $135.4 million (Rwf199 billion), or 83.7%, of total travel credits. Land border arrivals contributed the remaining $26.4 million (Rwf39 billion).
By purpose of visit, holiday travel was the single largest contributor, bringing in $59.7 million (Rwf88 billion), or 36.9% of total credits. Visitors travelling to see friends and relatives (VFR) contributed 28.1% ($45.5 million), while business travellers accounted for 24.9% ($40.2 million).
Gorillas the star attraction
Within the holiday travel segment, gorilla tourism proved to be the dominant revenue driver. Of the $57.6 million (Rwf85 billion) generated from holiday travel by air, gorilla-related visits accounted for 79.4% of that total, underscoring the primate’s continued role as Rwanda’s flagship tourism product.
By region, North America was the top-spending market, with visitors from the region contributing $40.2 million. Europe followed with $27.7 million, while visitors from the rest of Africa spent $27.1 million. Travellers from the East African Community (EAC) contributed $22.2 million by air, and were the largest spenders by land, accounting for $13.6 million of the $26.4 million recorded through land borders.
Outbound spending also rises
While Rwanda earned $161.8 million from inbound travel, residents travelling abroad spent $99.7 million during the same period, up from $98.1 million in the first quarter, leaving Rwanda with a net travel services surplus of $62.1 million.
Business was the leading purpose for outbound spending, accounting for 49.1% ($49.0 million) of the import bill, followed by visits to friends and relatives at 20.6% ($20.5 million) and education-related travel at 19.0% ($18.9 million). Europe was the top destination for spending among air travellers, at $26.0 million, while the EAC accounted for nearly all spending by residents travelling by land, at $23.5 million.
The estimates are derived by combining survey findings on average length of stay and average daily expenditure with official traveller volumes recorded by the DGIE.
Within the holiday travel segment, gorilla tourism proved to be the dominant revenue driver. Of the $57.6 million (Rwf85 billion) generated from holiday travel by air, gorilla-related visits accounted for 79.4% of that total, underscoring the primate’s continued role as Rwanda’s flagship tourism product.
