Category: Advice for Travellers
Our Stories:
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Koko Bridge Reopens After 13 Years
After more than a decade of disuse, the Koko Bridge connecting Musasa to Gihango sector that leads to Bumba has finally been repaired and reopened to the public. This long-awaited restoration allows travellers to cross the river safely, eliminating the need for makeshift crossings. Previously, hikers and bikers on the Congo Nile Trail had to…
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Drawn to the Thrill of the Catch? Consider Lake Chahafi!
In the hills of Kisoro, where mist rolls off the Virungas and time seems to slow down, fish from Lakes Chahafi and Kayumbu is nothing short of treasure. So valuable, in fact, that fishmongers won’t dare cut a Mirror Carp unless someone is ready to buy the whole thing. A single kilo sells for no…
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Beginner’s Guide to Cycling the Congo Nile Trail
Buckle up for the ride of a lifetime! The 227 km/141 mi Congo Nile Trail is a jaw-dropping biking adventure through nature’s finest. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newbie, this trail’s got something for everyone. First time on a trail? No sweat! Here’s your guide to crushing it with a grin.Get Your Mind…
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That Sweet Yellow Passion
Is there a better taste in the world than a glass of yellow juice freshly squeezed after a long hike? That first sip is life! This very tasty juice, which can be drank without sugar as it is often sweet enough already, originates from the passion fruit (Passiflora edulis). The common type found in the…
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Historically Marginalised People: Ancient Culture on the Congo Nile Trail
Tucked along the Congo Nile Trail, just 7 km from Rubona (Gisenyi), is a chance to interact with the indigenous people of the Gorilla Highlands: the Batwa, in Rwanda also known as “Twa” and officially termed “Historically Marginalised People”. Because of the country’s tragic experience with the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi — a huge…
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Packing Smart for the Congo Nile Trail: Gear, Tips & Luggage Transport
The Congo Nile Trail is a peculiar hiking/biking experience that doesn’t neatly fit into our previously published “What to Pack for Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC.” That’s why we’re devoting this article to what in particular you should have in your bag on the banks of Lake Kivu. First of all, unless you’ve decided to…
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Rutinda: Lake Bunyonyi’s Capital of Dugouts & Drinks
Lake Bunyonyi has a mini capital, and trust us, you won’t miss it! Rutinda — named after murutindo, which means “bridge” — is your springboard to all the coolest islands. It’s where you catch boats, stock up on crisps and secondhand fashion, print things you forgot existed, and possibly end up partying way past bedtime.…
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Naughty Beer of the Volcano Gods
“It tastes like wine!” has been the funniest remark from our guests when we’ve introduced them to the famous beer of the Virungas. This very nutritious sorghum drink is called obushera/ubushera and has a rather peculiar, bittersweet taste. It does not resemble wine! Sorghum is a cereal crop widely grown around our volcanoes. The planting…
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The Speed Trap of Boda Bodas/Motos
If you believe that you are safer because you’ve ordered your motorcycle taxi through an app, think twice. Yes, the risk of harm from the driver may go down — but to make a living, they still have to ride fast … You may also like: Just One Boda Boda Horror StoryAre You a True…