Representing Rwanda for the ninth consecutive year, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is joined by top tourism operators, including Blue Monkey Tours, Primate Safaris, Luxe Horizons, Pure Africa Tours, Inzozi Tours & Travels, Wilderness/Thousand Hills, Uber Luxe Safaris, Palast Tours and Travels, Pinnacle Kigali, and Volcanoes Safaris.
Rwanda’s delegation aims to showcase the country’s diverse tourist attractions and strengthen its profile in the global luxury tourism market. On the opening day, the participating companies engaged with over 150 visitors, in addition to holding strategic meetings facilitated by RDB with media representatives and industry partners.
With more than 2,000 luxury tourism professionals expected at the annual event, Rwanda is well-positioned to expand its international network and attract high-end travelers.
ILTM Cannes serves as a key platform connecting buyers, sellers, and partners in the luxury tourism sector. The event draws participants from across Africa, Asia, South America, the Arab world, and China.
{{Photos from the second day, highlighting Rwanda’s stand and its engagement with partners.
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The accolade, part of the publication’s annual Best of the World feature, highlights 25 must-visit locations globally, curated by the magazine’s editors, photographers, and adventurers.
Among the world’s top destinations for 2026, National Geographic also included Banff in Canada, the Dolomites in Italy, Akagera’s Caribbean counterparts like Dominica, the Basque Country in Spain, and Morocco’s Rabat. The selections span continents and offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure, reflecting the magazine’s commitment to showcasing both iconic and lesser-known destinations.
Nestled along Rwanda’s eastern border, Akagera offers a Big Five safari experience in a setting of rolling savannas, lush woodlands, and winding waterways. The park is home to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
According to National Geographic, Akagera attracts around 50,000 visitors annually, offering a quieter and more intimate safari experience compared to Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara.
Once severely affected by poaching and deforestation in the 1990s, Akagera has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 15 years. The Rwanda Development Board, in partnership with African Parks, has successfully rehabilitated the park’s ecosystems and wildlife populations.
A notable milestone in this recovery was the reintroduction of rhinos from South Africa in 2021, followed by the relocation of 70 additional white rhinos in May 2025, positioning Akagera as a leading conservation hub in the region.
Tourism infrastructure is also expanding, with new and upgraded hospitality options enhancing the safari experience. The southern part of the park, closest to Kigali, saw extensive renovations at Karenge Bush Camp, while the northern Magashi Peninsula welcomed Wilderness Magashi, a high-end safari camp offering tented suites and remote wildlife encounters.
The park also offers diverse activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and hot air balloon rides, providing multiple ways to explore its natural beauty.
The national park’s accolade comes as Rwanda continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination, with the tourism sector generating $647 million in revenue in 2024. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has set an ambitious target of surpassing $700 million in earnings for 2025, as part of the nation’s strategy to reach $1.1 billion in annual tourism revenue by 2029.
During the visit, both leaders witnessed the signing of agreements aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations. A key highlight was a landmark land allocation deal, expected to provide businesses from both countries greater access to regional markets.
Rwanda and Egypt share a strong bilateral relationship, with embassies established in each other’s capitals. This development builds upon numerous cooperation agreements in various sectors, including technology, industrial development, trade, agriculture, education, youth, healthcare, and military collaboration.
The partnership between the two nations has been long-standing. In 2017, President El-Sisi visited Rwanda to further strengthen their bilateral relations. Both countries are also active members of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
Egypt opened its embassy in Kigali in 1976, and Rwanda re-established its embassy in Cairo in March 2015, signaling the importance of their diplomatic ties.
This longstanding relationship was further strengthened by President Kagame’s recent visit to Cairo, a city rich in culture, history, and landmarks.
Here are the top 15 attractions to know about this extraordinary city visited by President Kagame.
{{1. The Pyramids of Giza}}
One of Cairo’s most iconic and unmissable attractions is the Pyramids of Giza. These ancient wonders, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, and the enigmatic Great Sphinx, continue to awe visitors with their scale and grandeur.
The Pyramids are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering and culture of ancient Egypt, making them one of the most visited tourist sites in the world.
Visitors can explore the inside of the pyramids, learn about the pharaohs’ burial practices, and take camel rides for a more immersive experience.
{{2. The Egyptian Museum: A gateway to ancient Egypt}}
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is an essential stop for anyone looking to delve into Egypt’s remarkable history.
With over 120,000 artifacts, the museum holds one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of ancient Egyptian antiquities. The highlight of the museum is the treasure of Tutankhamun, including his famous golden death mask.
The museum provides invaluable insights into Egypt’s ancient civilization, offering visitors a chance to learn about mummification, religious rituals, and the everyday life of the pharaohs.
{{3. Coptic Cairo: Egypt’s Christian Heritage}}
Coptic Cairo is an area in Cairo that reflects the deep Christian history of Egypt. It is home to several significant churches, including the famous Hanging Church, which dates back to the 3rd century.
The Coptic Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that trace the history of Christianity in Egypt, from the early Christian period to modern times.
The area also includes the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the ancient Babylon Fortress, marking the historical and cultural crossroads where different religious traditions intersect.
{{4. Islamic Cairo}}
Islamic Cairo is a district filled with some of the most stunning examples of Islamic architecture. The area is home to historic mosques, madrassas, and palaces.
Key highlights include the stunning Sultan Hassan Mosque, one of the largest in the city, and the Ibn Tulun Mosque, which is one of the oldest in Cairo.
The Citadel of Saladin, which includes the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, offers panoramic views of the city and a peek into Cairo’s Islamic history. Islamic Cairo is a living museum, where visitors can walk through streets lined with ancient buildings and immerse themselves in the city’s Islamic heritage.
{{5. Khan El Khalili Bazaar: A shopper’s paradise}}
For those looking to experience the authentic flavors and sounds of Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar is the place to go.
This vibrant market, which has been a trading hub since the 14th century, is filled with colorful stalls offering everything from handcrafted jewelry, spices, and textiles to copperware, perfumes, and souvenirs.
The bustling market is a sensory overload, with its maze of alleyways and lively merchants. Don’t forget to bargain; it’s part of the fun in this traditional Egyptian souk.
{{6. Al-Azhar Park}}
Al-Azhar Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Cairo, providing visitors with beautiful green spaces and panoramic views of the Cairo skyline.
Located near Islamic Cairo, the park is a perfect place to relax while taking in the breathtaking view of the Cairo Citadel and the surrounding historic mosques. The park is an oasis of calm in the heart of Cairo, offering a unique combination of nature, history, and tranquility.
{{7. Tahrir Square }}
Tahrir Square is not just a central location in Cairo—it has been the site of many pivotal moments in Egypt’s modern political history.
Most notably, it was the focal point of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution that led to the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak.
Today, the square is a key symbol of the country’s political struggles and successes. Surrounding the square are important landmarks, including the Egyptian Museum, and it remains a central hub for both political movements and everyday life in Cairo.
{{8. The Cairo Opera House}}
Cairo is home to one of the most prestigious cultural venues in the Middle East—The Cairo Opera House.
A key part of the city’s thriving arts scene, the opera house hosts performances ranging from classical music and ballet to contemporary dance and opera. It’s a cultural institution in the city, drawing in artists from around the world.
{{9. The Citadel of Saladin: A historic fortress}}
The Citadel of Saladin is one of Cairo’s most important historical sites. Built by the famous Islamic ruler Saladin in the 12th century, the Citadel was the seat of the Egyptian government for almost 700 years.
Visitors can explore its many mosques, including the iconic Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which offers stunning views of the city. The Citadel also houses the National Military Museum and the Police Museum, both of which offer fascinating insights into Egypt’s military history.
{{10. The Nile River}}
The Nile River has been the lifeblood of Egypt for thousands of years, and it continues to play a central role in the life of Cairo.
Tourists can take a relaxing boat ride or even a traditional felucca ride on the river to see the city from a different perspective.
Many luxury hotels and restaurants along the Nile offer dining experiences with beautiful views of the river and the city skyline.
{{11. The Nile Corniche}}
The Nile Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that runs along the Nile River in Cairo. The Corniche is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering stunning views of the river and the city’s historic buildings.
Visitors can take in the sights of Cairo’s skyline, cross over bridges, or simply sit at one of the many cafes that line the river. It’s an ideal spot to experience the dynamic energy of Cairo’s urban life while enjoying the tranquility of the river.
{{12. The City of the Dead}}
One of Cairo’s more unusual attractions is the City of the Dead, a vast necropolis located in the eastern part of the city. This sprawling cemetery houses tombs that date back to the Mamluk period and even earlier.
The City of the Dead is home to some of Cairo’s poorest residents, who live among the tombs, making it a fascinating and thought-provoking site for visitors. While it may be an unconventional tourist attraction, it offers a unique window into Cairo’s past and present.
{{13. Zamalek: Cairo’s Greenest District}}
Zamalek is an upscale district in Cairo known for its lush greenery, colonial-era architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. Located on an island in the Nile, Zamalek is a quiet residential area that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the rest of Cairo.
The district is home to embassies, art galleries, and cultural venues, including the Cairo Opera House. It’s a great area for walking, dining, and enjoying Cairo’s more laid-back side.
{{14. The Museum of Islamic Art}}
The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo offers a fascinating collection of Islamic artifacts spanning over 1,400 years.
The museum’s exhibits include rare manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, and metalwork from various periods in Islamic history.
Visitors can explore the rich artistic and cultural legacy of the Islamic world, with artifacts from across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.
{{15. Cairo Tower}}
Standing tall at 187 meters, the Cairo Tower offers the best panoramic view of the city. Located on Gezira Island, it provides a breathtaking view of Cairo’s skyline, the Nile River, and iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza in the distance.
Visitors can enjoy a meal or drink at the revolving restaurant on the tower’s top floor, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset or gaze at the sprawling cityscape.
This deeply symbolic event, meaning “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda, is a celebration of Rwanda’s conservation successes, community engagement, and the incredible journey of the country’s endangered mountain gorillas.
A total of 40 baby mountain gorillas will be named, including 18 born in 2024, when the ceremony was postponed due to the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda.
Over the past two decades, Kwita Izina has evolved into a global platform, attracting influential figures from around the world who participate in naming the newest generation of baby gorillas. These distinguished participants serve as ambassadors for conservation, highlighting Rwanda’s pioneering role in blending sustainable tourism with rigorous wildlife protection.
The 20th anniversary promises will bring together leaders from diverse fields, including entertainment, sports, business, science, and hands-on conservation.
Below are the 20 prominent figures who will take part in Kwita Izina 2025:
{{1. Michelle Yeoh Todt
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Internationally acclaimed actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Michelle Yeoh Todt is renowned not only for her stellar career in film but also for her advocacy on gender equality, environmental sustainability, and global development.
At Kwita Izina, she brings her global influence to champion wildlife conservation and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
{{2. Jean Todt
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The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, motorsport executive, and former FIA President, Jean Todt, is a global leader in advocacy and safety. His participation in Kwita Izina underscores the intersection of leadership, global responsibility, and conservation awareness, highlighting the importance of cross-sector support for wildlife protection.
3. Javier Pastore
Argentine professional footballer and PSG legend, Javier Pastore, is known for his elegant play as an attacking midfielder and his environmental advocacy.
His involvement in Kwita Izina reflects how global sports icons can champion conservation and inspire new generations of environmental stewards.
{{4. His Highness Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz
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Prince of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, and President of World Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia, Tunku Ali has long championed environmental protection and sustainable development initiatives.
His presence at Kwita Izina reflects the critical role of international collaboration in safeguarding endangered species such as mountain gorillas.
{{5. Mathieu Flamini
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Former professional footballer for Arsenal and CEO of GFBiochemicals, Mathieu Flamini bridges the worlds of sports and sustainability.
At Kwita Izina, he represents the growing role of public figures in supporting innovative solutions for conservation and environmental stewardship.
{{6. Yemi Alade
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Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer and songwriter, Yemi Alade, uses her global platform to promote awareness of cultural and environmental causes.
Her participation at Kwita Izina highlights the power of arts and culture in engaging audiences for conservation initiatives.
{{7. David S. Marriott}}
Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, Inc., David S. Marriott brings decades of leadership experience in global hospitality. His presence at Kwita Izina symbolises the crucial partnership between conservation and sustainable tourism, highlighting the connection between protecting Rwanda’s natural treasures and responsible travel experiences.
{{8. Susan Chin
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Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advancement at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Susan Chin, combines architecture, design, and conservation to create immersive wildlife experiences.
Her work educates millions about the natural world, and at Kwita Izina, she exemplifies the importance of connecting people with wildlife through creative and strategic engagement.
{{9. Dr. Gaspard Nzayisenga
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Field veterinarian with Gorilla Doctors, Dr. Nzayisenga provides hands-on medical care to wild mountain and Grauer’s gorillas, often treating injuries from snares and monitoring their health in Volcanoes National Park. His role is vital in ensuring the survival of these endangered species.
{{10. Alliance Umwizerwa
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Gorilla Research Assistant with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Alliance monitors gorilla populations and conducts behavioural research, contributing critical insights that inform conservation strategies and habitat management.
{{11. Leonard Nsengiyumva
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Data Technician at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Leonard supports gorilla conservation by managing and analysing crucial data, helping to track population trends and inform field interventions.
{{12. Brenda Umutoni
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Ranger at Volcanoes National Park, Brenda is on the front lines of protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats through patrols, monitoring, and community engagement programs that ensure long-term conservation success.
{{13. Claver Ntoyinkima
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Senior Ranger Guide and Trainer at Nyungwe National Park, Claver oversees wildlife protection and ranger training, fostering a new generation of skilled conservationists dedicated to preserving Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.
Claver was in November 2024 awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.
{{14. Reed Oppenheimer
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As the Chairman and CEO of the Reed Jules Oppenheimer Foundation, Reed leads philanthropic initiatives supporting education, health, and environmental conservation.
At Kwita Izina, he demonstrates the role of private foundations in promoting global conservation goals.
{{15. Sang-Hyup Kim
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Sang-Hyup is the Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute. He advances sustainable development and environmental policies worldwide. His participation highlights the link between international policy, economic growth, and the preservation of endangered species.
{{16. Athanasie Mukabizimungu
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Founder and Chairperson of the Imbereheza Cooperative in Gahunga, Athanasie empowers local communities through sustainable agriculture and development projects, showing how grassroots efforts can complement wildlife conservation.
{{17. Charlie Mayhew OBE
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Charlie Mayhew OBE is the co-founder and CEO of Tusk Trust. He leads initiatives that protect wildlife and support community development across Africa, illustrating the power of collaborative conservation models.
{{18. Dr. Yin Ye
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The CEO of BGI Group and science popularisation vlogger bridges the gap between scientific innovation and public engagement, bringing evidence-based insights to global conservation efforts.
{{19. Princess Ingeborg zu Schleswig-Holstein
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Artist, philanthropist, and Chairperson of the Louisenlund Foundation, Princess Ingeborg uses her artistic and philanthropic influence to support environmental and cultural causes, inspiring broader societal involvement in conservation.
{{20. Camille Rebelo}}
Camille Rebelo is the founder and CEO of EcoPlanet Bamboo. Camille implements sustainable land-use projects that combat deforestation, rehabilitate degraded land, and create employment opportunities, demonstrating the impact of entrepreneurial solutions in conservation.
Together, these distinguished individuals will participate in the symbolic act of naming the newest baby gorillas, a gesture that reinforces the global commitment to biodiversity, conservation, and Rwanda’s leadership in sustainable tourism.
Their involvement highlights not only the remarkable recovery of mountain gorilla populations but also the importance of international collaboration, community engagement, and innovative approaches to wildlife protection.
Beyond remittances, some members of the diaspora have chosen to invest in impactful projects back home. One such individual is Mukarugwiza Drocelle, who lives in Rwanda and Germany.
Mukarugwiza invested in the Nyanza District, specifically in Busasamana Sector, in an area known as Gihisi.
Among her initiatives in Gihisi is Gira Impuhwe Primary School, as well as Chez Drocella Eglantine Lodge, which welcomes tourists and visitors exploring Nyanza.
The guest house boasts a beautiful garden, comfortable guest rooms, conference facilities, and more.
It is located approximately 100 kilometers from Kigali and 36 kilometers from Huye.
Chez Drocella Eglantine Lodge blends comfort with cultural richness.
Surrounded by lush gardens, the lodge offers cozy rooms, peaceful verandas, meeting spaces, and the soothing sounds of nature. Guests are welcomed with fresh air, the fragrance of blooming flowers, and the melodic chirping of birds in the morning.
Meals are freshly prepared using ingredients sourced from local farms. For those curious about rural life, guests can tour nearby cattle farms, enjoy fresh milk, or engage with local traditions in Nyanza.
In an interview with IGIHE, Mukarugwiza reflected on her journey. She and her husband began their work in Gihisi in 1990, long before it became a travel destination.
“At the time, we were caring for children living with HIV/AIDS—many had been abandoned and left without support,” she recalled. “After the Genocide against the Tutsi, our mission turned to helping survivors, especially widows, girls, and orphaned children.”
She explained that the area has now been transformed into a guest house, but they continue to use the income to support genocide survivors and ensure children at the school have access to essential learning materials.
Mukarugwiza invited Rwandans from Nyanza and friends in the diaspora, as well as visitors from across Rwanda, come and experience the breathtaking views of Mwima and Mushirarungu hills.
Dubbed The Sanctuary, the space goes beyond traditional spa services, featuring a salt-water lap pool, steam room, ice bath, meditation pods, and treatment rooms.
The lodge says the design prioritises stillness and restoration, with natural materials, quiet soundscapes, and minimal distractions from the surrounding environment.
The new facility will be open to guests staying at both Bisate and the nearby Bisate Reserve.
Wilderness, the company behind the lodge, says the launch reflects a broader shift in how it approaches guest experiences. Alexandra Margull, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, said wellness would no longer be treated as an add-on but “a natural extension of place.”
The opening at Bisate comes alongside a similar rollout at Wilderness Mombo in Botswana, part of what the brand describes as a more integrated wellness offering across its camps.
Located near some of the last remaining habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla, Wilderness Bisate is known for its conservation-focused model and ultra-private guest experience. The new wellness space adds another layer to what is already one of Rwanda’s most exclusive tourism destinations.
This landmark move reflects a growing spirit of diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations. Rwandans can now explore this tropical paradise with ease, while citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are also free to visit Rwanda under the same arrangement.
This development may pave the way for broader collaboration, including the possibility of RwandAir launching direct flights to the Caribbean as early as next year.
Should negotiations succeed, Rwanda’s national airline could play a key logistical role in connecting the two regions, particularly ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which Antigua and Barbuda is set to host.
Though Rwanda is often viewed as small in size when compared to its East African neighbors like Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, it shares many demographic similarities with nations outside of Africa. One such country is Antigua and Barbuda, a vibrant Caribbean nation that spans just 442 square kilometers, making it the 14th smallest country in the world.
With a population of just over 105,000 people, it also ranks among the least densely populated countries globally.
The country consists of two main islands, Antigua and Barbuda, along with around 50 smaller islets scattered across the Caribbean Sea. Its capital, St. John’s, lies on Antigua, the larger island, while Barbuda covers about 160 square kilometers. The capital city itself occupies a compact 10.5 square kilometers.
Most of the population, around 87%, is of African descent, a direct result of the transatlantic slave trade. Other ethnic groups include people of European, Indian, and South American origin.
Christianity is the predominant religion, with nearly 97% of the population identifying as Christian. A small segment, around 3.6%, practices Rastafarianism, while others follow diverse traditional and spiritual beliefs.
English is the official language, but the local Antiguan Creole adds a vibrant, informal touch to everyday communication. Phrases like “Wah gwan?” (How are you?) and “Tank yuh” (Thank you) offer visitors a warm taste of local culture.
Antigua and Barbuda’s economy relies heavily on tourism, which accounts for nearly 60% of its GDP. The country’s tourism tagline, “One Beach Per Day,” comes from its remarkable offering of 365 beaches—enough for every single day of the year. Visitors flock to these sun-drenched shores for their beauty, serenity, and the welcoming spirit of the people.
Among the nation’s cultural treasures is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Antigua Naval Dockyard, home to preserved 18th-century British naval structures that speak to the island’s colonial past.
Beyond history, the islands offer vibrant coastal towns, marine parks, and lush scenery that highlight the richness of the Caribbean landscape.
The local cuisine draws from its Afro-Caribbean heritage. Signature dishes like Ducana and Saltfish (sweet potato dumplings with salted cod), Fungi and Saltfish (a polenta-like dish served with fish), and hearty Pepperpot stew give a delicious insight into island life.
The best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda is between December and April, during the dry season. Temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C, offering perfect weather for outdoor activities. This period also aligns with Christian festivities such as Holy Week, which are celebrated vibrantly across the islands.
When it comes to safety, visitors can expect a peaceful experience. While tourism is the backbone of the economy, Antigua and Barbuda also benefits from financial services, construction, and a small manufacturing base. Agriculture contributes only a modest 3% to GDP, which means the nation imports a significant portion of its food.
For investors, Antigua and Barbuda presents numerous opportunities, particularly in tourism and hospitality, construction, renewable energy, and financial services. As ties with Rwanda strengthen, and direct connectivity becomes a possibility, new partnerships and ventures could emerge across both sides of the Atlantic.
The rope course, which spans 280 meters and includes 21 segments, is suspended up to 15 meters above ground. It allows visitors to experience the forest from the perspective of wildlife by imitating the movements of species like colobus monkeys, civets, and forest cats.
The course is located at Gisakura, one of the main reception areas of the park, and is designed to be both educational and thrilling.
Designed as a suspended obstacle course, it challenges participants to move carefully across swaying elements.
Completing the course gives participants a strong sense of accomplishment and helps build personal confidence.
Tourists are equipped with professional safety harnesses, which keep them securely connected to an overhead line throughout the course.
“Even if you slip or get tired, there’s no risk of falling. The system is built for maximum safety and comfort,” says David Nduwe, a tour guide at the park.
Each visitor is accompanied by a trained guide who provides safety instructions and explains the ecological significance of each section. For example, segments simulate how primates move through trees or how forest predators navigate the terrain, offering an interactive and immersive learning experience.
“This is a teaching journey above all. It’s physically engaging, emotionally rewarding, and everyone finishes with a greater appreciation for nature,” says Nduwe.
Other adventure features you can explore in Nyungwe besides the rope course include the Canopy Walkway, an exhilarating suspension bridge offering treetop views; the expanded Zipline, spanning up to 1.9 kilometers and now one of East Africa’s longest for a thrilling flight; and extensive hiking trails that lead to waterfalls and offer opportunities for chimpanzee and other primate tracking, as well as incredible bird watching.
The rope course and other attractions are part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to leverage natural heritage for sustainable tourism growth. In the past year, Nyungwe National Park welcomed over 26,000 visitors, a 20% increase from 2023, generating more than $2 million in revenue.
Nationwide, Rwanda’s tourism sector earned over $647 million in 2024, a 4.3% rise compared to the previous year. That figure stood at just $7 million in 2005. The country now targets $1 billion in annual tourism revenue by 2030, according to Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika.
Located in Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe is one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests. It is home to 98 mammal species, including 13 species of primates, representing 12% of all primates in Africa. The park also shelters over 1,000 species of flowering plants, 240 species of trees, and 320 species of birds, some of which are endemic.
This richness led to Nyungwe’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023, further reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Rwanda’s conservation and eco-tourism strategy.
Chana said that the country received five million visitors in the 2024/2025 season, and to reach its new target, the government will boost service quality and intensify both domestic and international promotion of Tanzania’s attractions.
She credited the recent growth in tourism to strategic campaigns such as the Royal Tour documentary and the Amazing Tanzania initiative, which have spotlighted the nation’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Echoing the focus on conservation tourism, Director General of Tanzania Trade Development Authority Latifa Khamis said the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a standout destination, where the harmony between wildlife and human communities continues to draw global interest.
Launched in 2023, Bird Paradise is located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, a world-leading wildlife and nature destination. The Mandai Wildlife Reserve is home to four other iconic wildlife parks – Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Night Safari and the newly opened Rainforest Wild Asia, alongside other nature-themed indoor attractions and green public spaces.
The aviary was unveiled in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the Rwanda High Commission in Singapore, and the Mandai Wildlife Group during the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Asia Pacific, held from June 30 to July 3, 2025.
Covering 1.55 hectares and home to over 800 birds, the aviary is designed to mirror the lush, mountainous terrain of Nyungwe. It features a canopy walkway and forested landscapes modelled on Rwanda’s southwestern rainforest, offering visitors a sensory immersion into one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
“We are very proud to partner with Mandai Wildlife Group to showcase Rwanda as a leading eco-tourism destination and inspire conservation the world over. This partnership reflects our commitment to strengthening international ties, promoting sustainable tourism, and sharing the story of Rwanda’s natural treasures with a global audience,” said Irene Murerwa, Chief Tourism Officer, Rwanda Development Board.
The aviary hosts a range of African bird species, including turacos, hornbills, and starlings. While the birds span the continent, the design cues are unmistakably Rwandan, with the walkway and forest structure offering perspectives similar to those found in Nyungwe itself, a rainforest known for its chimpanzees, rare primates, and over 300 species of birds.
Mandai Wildlife Group, which manages the reserve, sees the partnership as part of a broader effort to foster global environmental awareness.
“The Mandai Wildlife Reserve serves as a window into the wild, fostering meaningful connections between people and wildlife to inspire a stronger commitment to protecting nature,” said Dr Cheng Wen-Haur, Deputy CEO of Life Sciences & Operations and Chief Life Sciences Officer, Mandai Wildlife Group.
“With the steadfast support of visionary partners like the Rwanda Development Board and Rwanda High Commission, we are empowered to share compelling conservation stories that resonate across borders. Together, we show how international collaboration can nurture a shared love for nature and a united commitment to its protection.”
The initiative also feeds into Rwanda’s wider strategy to boost eco-tourism. By spotlighting Nyungwe in one of Asia’s premier nature destinations, Rwanda hopes to attract travellers seeking immersive, sustainable experiences.
The event at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve brought together conservation experts, travel industry leaders, and media to experience a taste of Rwanda’s natural heritage and build new connections that will further position Rwanda as the ‘Heart of Africa’ and a top destination for luxury eco-tourism.
Nyungwe, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often described as Rwanda’s ecological crown jewel. Now, its spirit lives on in Singapore, inviting thousands of visitors each year to discover the natural beauty and conservation efforts behind the “Heart of Africa.”
