The Majestic Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony
Discover the vibrant Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony in KinigiKong, a celebration of wildlife conservation and Rwandan culture in breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Gorilla naming place (Kwita izina - KinigiKong)
- HH9X+C2M, Ruhengeri, RW
- +250252576514
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
The Kwita Izina ceremony is a remarkable celebration that takes place annually in KinigiKong, a picturesque location nestled in the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park. This event highlights the importance of gorilla conservation and recognizes the efforts made by local communities in preserving these magnificent creatures. During the ceremony, newborn mountain gorillas are named in a festive atmosphere filled with traditional music, dance, and cultural displays. Visitors can engage with local artisans showcasing their crafts, taste delicious Rwandan cuisine, and learn about the rich heritage of the region. The event draws thousands of visitors from around the world, providing a unique opportunity to witness the deep bond between the Rwandan people and their environment. The backdrop of lush green hills and the iconic Volcanoes National Park enhances the experience, making it an unforgettable occasion for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Moreover, participating in the Kwita Izina ceremony not only contributes to the local economy but also supports wildlife conservation efforts that are vital to the survival of these endangered gorillas. In addition to the main event, visitors can explore various activities in the region, including guided gorilla trekking tours, community visits, and breathtaking hikes. KinigiKong is the gateway to some of Africa's most spectacular wildlife experiences, where one can interact with the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The combination of cultural richness and wildlife conservation makes the Kwita Izina ceremony a must-visit for any traveler seeking to explore the beauty and heritage of Rwanda.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the ceremony and enjoy local performances.
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful festivities and the stunning backdrop of the volcanoes.
- Consider booking a guided tour for a more immersive experience and to learn about gorilla conservation.
- Sample traditional Rwandan dishes at local food stalls for an authentic culinary experience.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountainous region.
Getting There
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Walking
Start your journey from the Nyagatare Bus Station. Exit the station and head northwest on Avenue du Commerce. Walk straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Route Nationale 3. Turn left onto Route Nationale 3 and continue walking for approximately 15 minutes. You will pass local shops and small eateries along the way. After about 15 minutes, you will reach the bus stop for Ruhengeri. Take a local bus heading towards Ruhengeri. The bus ride will take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Ruhengeri, ask locals for directions to the Gorilla Naming Place, which is situated approximately 10 minutes away by foot from the bus station. Head west on Avenue de l'Indépendance, then turn left onto Avenue du Parc and follow the signs. The location will be on your right.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop in Nyagatare. Begin at the Nyagatare Bus Station and cycle northwest on Avenue du Commerce. After about 10 minutes of cycling, take a left at Route Nationale 3. Continue cycling on Route Nationale 3 for approximately 15 minutes until you reach the bus stop for Ruhengeri. From there, you can catch a local bus to Ruhengeri, which will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Ruhengeri, follow the walking directions provided above to reach the Gorilla Naming Place.
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Motorbike Taxi
For a quicker option, you can hire a motorbike taxi (known locally as 'moto'). Start from the Nyagatare Bus Station and negotiate with a moto driver to take you directly to the Gorilla Naming Place in Ruhengeri. The ride should take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Make sure to confirm the fare beforehand and ensure they understand your destination. Once you arrive in Ruhengeri, the driver should be able to take you directly to the location.
Attractions Nearby to Gorilla naming place (Kwita izina - KinigiKong)
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Volcanoes National Park
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Volcanoes National Park Headquarters
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RED ROCKS BOTANICAL GARDEN
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Red Rocks Arts Centre
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Rwanda tours
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Gasura Best Tourism village
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Volcanoes Over View Safaris & Under Volcanoes View Guest House
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Mount Sabyinyo
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Gahinga Trailhead
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Gorilla Guardians
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Gahinga Volcano
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Rwanda Gorilla Safari
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Best Tours Rwanda
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Volcanoes Forest Camp
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Virungà Mountain Ranges
Landmarks nearby to Gorilla naming place (Kwita izina - KinigiKong)
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Kinigi Guest House
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Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
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One&Only Gorilla's Nest
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Singita Kwitonda Lodge
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Sambora Kinigi
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Wilderness Sabyinyo
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Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
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Wantaz Backpackers
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Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge
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Ingagi Park View Lodge
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Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
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Virunga Inn Resort & Spa
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Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
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Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge
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Karisimbi Cave Resort