Tourism Sector of Rwanda
Rwanda’s Tourism sector is among the fastest growing sectors in the country. In 2012 tourism sector generated US$ 281.8 million and it attracted investments totalling over US$323 million. The sector attracted over 1.07 million visitors representing an increase of 22 per cent compared to same period in 2011. Tourism sector is a top foreign exchange earner for the country.
Land of a thousand hills
Rwanda has been called the Land of a Thousand Hills because much of the country is covered by rolling, grassy hills with volcanic mountains in the North Western part of the nation. Rwanda is becoming increasingly noticed for its environmental policies and breathtaking beauty. Positive internal and international support for infrastructure, education, security and eco-tourism has made it an attractive African destination.
Regulatory Framework
Regulatory framework of Tourism Sector
Ministry of Trade and Industry
The ministry is responsible for facilitating Rwanda’s economic transformation through enabling a competitive private sector integrated into regional and global markets while ensuring a level playing field and the protection of consumers.
Rwanda Tourism University College (RTUC)
The college is responsible for training people in tourism and has become a centre of excellence in the region for the quality of academic programs. It is a solution provider in training professionals in the areas of hospitality, tourism and business information technology.
Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks (ORTPN)
This is a government institution which is responsible for promotion of tourism and conservation of national parks within the country.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking Rules for Virunga National Park
The following are the rules which visitors have to comply with;
- Do not eat or drink while you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably increase the risk of food falling which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases
- The maximum time one can spend with the gorillas is one hour.
- Keep your voices at a lower tone. After the visit, keep your voices down until you are 200 metres from the gorillas.
- A 5 meter distance should try to be observed at all times (15 feet) from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
- Do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes and wait for the animals to pass.
- You must stay in close group whey you are near the gorillas.
- Do not attempt to touch the gorillas.
The information in the sector is organised as below;
Sector Profile
Wild Life in Rwanda
Infrastructure Support
Water Falls in Rwanda
Hot Springs
Lakes in Rwanda
Mountains in Rwanda
National Parks of Rwanda
Eco Tourism site in Rwanda
Historical sites in Rwanda
Forests of Rwanda
Kingdoms of Rwanda
Gift Shops
Islands in Rwanda
People in History
Caves in Rwanda
Culture
Challenges