Tours and travel operators have said Hot springs, locally known as ‘Amashyuza’, have the potential to attract thousands of people due to their unique nature and health benefits associated with visiting them.

Hot springs are natural bodies of water that are heated geothermally. They are often found in areas with volcanic activity or tectonic plate boundaries.

Rwanda has several hot springs including Bugarama, Nyamyumba, Gisenyi, and Kinigi hot springs according to researchers soaking in hot spring water can reduce chronic muscle pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia, stimulating the immune system. Also, hot spring water is believed to contain healing properties that address illnesses like the flu.

These hot springs have untapped potential to thousands attract of tourists, and as a company, they are prepared for it. They can be accessed through both guided and self-guided tours.

“For tourism numbers to increase significantly they must have the diversity of attractions on top of having other attractions like Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, and the Big Five in Akagera among others,” Muzungu says.

Muzungu says with diverse attractions and other incentives by the Rwanda Development Board like the reduction of prices for local and regional tourists, the tourism sector will be unstoppable this year.

“With these reduced prices for both domestic and regional tourists, we are going to witness increased local tourists. This year begins on a positive note and the sector is upbeat. Thanks to RDB ’s new price policy,” said Muzungu, MD of Kigali Car Rentals.

Muzungu says as a result of reduced prices new products and offers that integrate both domestic and regional packages have been introduced by Kigali Car Rentals.

“We have added flexible offers such as the self-drive packages where tourists or groups can rent cars, drive themselves and if they are exiting the country through another EAC country, they don’t have to drive back the car to Rwanda. They deposit it at our outlet in the country of exit and proceed with their journey,” Muzungu explained.

This growth came on the backdrop of a successful previous year where figures show that Rwanda’s tourism revenues had increased to US$445 million in 2022, up 171.3 per cent from the previous year, with nature-based tourism bearing the potential to drive the country’s economic growth.

Gorilla trekking generated revenues of US$113 million, the government institution, Rwanda Development Board (RDB), said in a report released recently.

The country attracted about 110,000 visitors to its national parks in 2022, registering an increase of 142.4 per cent from 2021, the report said. It added that the country aims to increase tourism receipts to 800 million dollars by 2024.

The services sector, mainly tourism and hospitality, played a significant role, contributing 46% to the GDP, followed by the agriculture sector at 25%, the industry sector at 21%, and net direct taxes accounting for 7%.

To the different initiatives by stakeholders like the government’s move to revitalize the industry and sector players like tour operators who have made it easy for both local and international visitors to move around the country and the region easily.

This will cement the industry’s position as the country’s biggest foreign exchange earner a position it had lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic that had affected the global economy, thus slowing down tourism activities due to movement restrictions.

What are safari holidays in Rwanda ?

Safari holidays in Rwanda are adventurous and immersive travel experiences that primarily take place in African countries, although they can also be found in other parts of the world. These holidays offer the opportunity to explore and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. During a safari holiday in Rwanda, travelers typically embark on either Self-drive Safaris or guided tours.

Game drives through national parks, game reserves, and private conservancies. These tours are led by experienced guides who possess extensive knowledge about the local flora and fauna. They help visitors spot and identify various animals including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and many others.

Rwanda holidays often provide unique opportunities for close encounters with wildlife. Some trips may involve staying at luxury lodges or tented camps located within or near wildlife-rich areas. This allows guests to witness animals up close while enjoying comfortable accommodations.

In addition to game drives, safari holidays can also include other activities like walking safaris, where participants explore the wilderness on foot under the guidance of expert trackers. Other options may include birdwatching excursions, hot air balloon rides over the savannahs, or cultural visits to local communities.

These holidays not only offer thrilling wildlife experiences but also promote conservation efforts by supporting local communities and contributing to conservation initiatives. They provide an incredible opportunity for travelers to connect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity.

Overall, Rwanda safari holidays allow individuals to escape into the wild and create unforgettable memories surrounded by stunning landscapes and magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.