Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, currently called Gorilla Guardians Village is located near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The people living in Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village used to survive in the park by hunting and gathering fruits.
Since they were relocated, they now live in the surrounding villages, including Iby’Iwacu.
The people at the center are former hunters and poachers who have reformed to become cultural performers, craftsmen, and engage in other tourist activities.
Activities at the Cultural Village
- Cultural Performances: Rwanda offers very unique and authentic cultural activities beyond gorilla trekking in Rwanda. You can enjoy traditional dances and songs performed by energetic African dancers under the stars. In addition to the cultural performances, you can learn how to weave baskets and participate in other traditional activities.
- Traditional Wedding Ceremony: At Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, tourists can take part in a traditional marriage ceremony and act as a Rwandan King or Queen. This is one of the most exciting traditional activities in Africa, as the locals cheer and celebrate your “engagement” and “marriage.” There are also many locally handmade crafts available at the center, which you can buy as souvenirs to take home or as gifts. You can also taste Rwanda’s staple food and learn how it is prepared.
Other Activities
- Gorilla Trekking: Gorilla trekking is the main reason why thousands of tourists visit Rwanda every year. It is done in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northern part of the country near the borders with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. A gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person, and tourists are allowed one hour to observe the gorillas. Children under 15 years and sick tourists are not permitted to trek gorillas.
- Volcanic Climbing: Rwanda is home to five of the eight Virunga volcanoes shared by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These mountains are located within Volcanoes National Park and include Mount Muhabura, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Bisoke. Tourists can add mountain climbing to their cultural experience, with each mountain offering a unique adventure and extraordinary views.
