Why Rwanda Is Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills

Why Is Rwanda Called the Land of a Thousand Hills? Many tourists ask why Rwanda is called the Land of a Thousand Hills. The answer is simple. Rwanda has many hills and mountains.

Everywhere you go, you see raised landforms covered with green plants. This is why people say it is a land of a thousand hills. Some of these mountains are shared with neighboring countries like Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The mountains mostly run from north to south and are part of the Congo-Nile divide. For example, Mount Karisimbi in the north is a volcano that rises to 4,507 meters. The land then slopes down to about 1,220 meters in the swampy Akagera River valley in the east.

Rwanda has gone through many changes. During the colonial era, it was ruled by Belgium. Rwanda became independent in 1962. However, in 1994, a tragic event happened. Many people lost their lives during a violent conflict between the Tutsi and Hutu groups. The government, with help from the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), stopped the violence and brought peace back to the country.

Today, Rwanda is one of the best countries in Africa for tourism. Many visitors come every year to see endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, wild animals living in the savannah, and colorful birds that live in the national parks. You are often advised to avoid loud noise because some animals, especially primates, are very sensitive.

Visitors can join tours to track gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or go chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park. To do this, you need a permit. Gorilla trekking permits usually cost around USD 1,500 per person. On the way to Nyungwe, you can see animals like blue monkeys, white and black colobus monkeys, and many birds, including 18 species found only in this area. You will also find different mammals, plants, and beautiful landscapes.

Golden monkey tracking is another great activity. It takes you deep into the jungle where you can watch these monkeys looking for food. This experience will give you a memory you will never forget.

Rwanda has many beautiful reasons for you to visit.

If you want to tailor your tour by adding more days or destinations, please reach out to us through our main contact page using the button below.