Beautiful Rwanda

Hystory of the City

Tourism in Rwanda has evolved from modest beginnings in the early 20th century to become a cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth and international reputation. This report outlines the historical trajectory of Rwanda’s tourism sector, the impact of the 1994 genocide, and the subsequent rebuilding and diversification efforts that culminated in record-breaking achievements in 2024.

• Establishment of national parks: In 1925, Albert National Park was created as Africa’s first national park dedicated to conservation. Following independence in 1962, it was renamed Volcanoes National Park, establishing Rwanda as a pioneer in wildlife protection.
• Origins of tourism: Rwanda’s tourism sector traces its roots to the early 20th century, when explorers and scientists were drawn to the country’s rich biodiversity, particularly the endangered mountain gorillas.
• Limited growth: Despite its unique natural assets, tourism remained limited during this period, attracting mainly naturalists and adventurers due to insufficient infrastructure and limited international visibility

Modern Tourism Development

• Diversification of offerings: Rwanda expanded its tourism portfolio beyond gorilla trekking to include:
  • Eco-tourism: Nyungwe Forest National Park, offering chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks.
  • Cultural tourism: Genocide memorials, traditional arts, and community experiences.
  • Urban tourism: Kigali’s museums, conference facilities, and modern hospitality sector.
• Investment and infrastructure: Government support and international partnerships facilitated the development of luxury lodges, improved transport networks, and global marketing campaigns such as the Visit Rwanda initiative with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
• Resilience and positioning: Tourism became a central pillar of Rwanda’s economic recovery and a key component of its global identity.