Rubavu: Gateway to Rwanda's Lakeside Serenity

• HelloMuraho
  [moo-rah-ho]
• GoodbyeMurabeho
  [moo-rah-beh-ho]
• YesYego
  [ye-go]
• NoOya
  [oy-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeKubabarira
  [koo-ba-ba-ree-ra]
• Thank youMurakoze
  [moo-rah-ko-zay]
• Excuse me/SorryTubabarire
  [too-ba-ba-ree-ray]
• How are you?Amakuru?
  [ah-mah-koo-roo]
• Fine. And you?Ni meza. Wewe?
  [nee-meh-zah. way-way]
• Do you speak English?Uravuga iki gifaransa?
  [oo-rah-voo-gah ee-kee gee-fah-rahn-sah]
• I don't understandNtawavuze
  [en-tah-wah-voo-zay]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifite ijambo, komeza
  [nee-fee-tay ee-jahm-bo, koh-meh-zah]
• I don't eat meatSinuka inyama
  [see-noo-kah ee-nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Amahoro!
  [ah-mah-hoh-roh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNifuza kugura, komeza
  [nee-foo-zah koo-goo-rah, koh-meh-zah]

• Help!Ubutumwa!
  [oo-boo-toom-wah]
• Go away!Jya kure!
  [jah koo-ray]
• Call the Police!Sibyumva!
  [see-byoom-vah]
• Call a doctor!Sibyiruka!
  [see-byee-roo-kah]
• I'm lostNdi muri maze
  [nee moo-ree mah-zay]
• I'm illNdi muri gahunda
  [nee moo-ree gah-hoon-dah]

• I'd like to buy...Nifuza gukora...
  [nee-foo-zah goo-koh-rah]
• I'm just lookingNifuza kubyaza
  [nee-foo-zah koo-byah-zah]
• How much is it?Ni iki cyane?
  [nee ee-kee chya-nay]
• That's too expensiveIyo ni ya kununua
  [ee-yoh nee yah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• Can you lower the price?Ukeneye kureba ikibazo?
  [oo-kay-nay-yay koo-ray-bah ee-kee-bah-zoh]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockNi saa umwe
  [nee sah oom-way]
• Half past (10)Hamwe n'ibihumbi
  [hah-mweh nee-bee-hoom-bee]
• MorningIgitondo
  [ee-gee-ton-doh]
• AfternoonIgihe cya maramara
  [ee-gee-hay chyah mah-rah-mah-rah]
• EveningIgihe cya saha
  [ee-gee-hay chyah sah-hah]
• YesterdayEjo
  [eh-joh]
• TodayEjo
  [eh-joh]
• TomorrowEjo
  [eh-joh]
• 1Rimwe
  [ree-mweh]
• 2Kabiri
  [kah-bee-ree]
• 3Gatatu
  [gah-tah-too]
• 4Kane
  [kah-nay]
• 5Gatanu
  [gah-tah-noo]
• 6Gatandatu
  [gah-tahn-dah-too]
• 7Kana
  [kah-nah]
• 8Umunaane
  [oo-moo-nah-nay]
• 9Icyenda
  [ee-chyen-dah]
• 10Igipandu
  [ee-gee-pahn-doo]

• Where's a/the...?Ese ari he?
  [eh-say ah-ree hay]
• What's the address?Iyi nimero y'amashuri
  [ee-yee nee-meh-roh yah-mah-shoo-ree]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ukeneye kundikira (kuri murugo)?
  [oo-kay-nay-yay koon-dee-kee-rah (koo-ree moo-roo-go)]
• When's the next (bus)?Igihe cya busi iyo ari he?
  [ee-gee-hay chyah boo-see ee-yoh ah-ree hay]
• A ticket (to ....)Imibare (kuri ...)
  [ee-mee-bah-ray (koo-ree ...)]

Rubavu's history dates back to ancient times when the area was inhabited by the indigenous Batwa people. These early settlers were known for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle and profound connection to the natural environment of the region. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Batwa lived in the forests and hills of Rubavu long before the arrival of other ethnic groups.

During the late 19th century, Rwanda became part of German East Africa. Rubavu, then known as Gisenyi under German rule, began to develop as a strategic location due to its proximity to Lake Kivu. The Germans established administrative posts and infrastructure, setting the stage for future growth. The influence of German architecture can still be seen in some of the older buildings in the area.

After World War I, Rwanda was placed under Belgian mandate by the League of Nations. The Belgians continued to develop Rubavu, focusing on agriculture and infrastructure. Coffee and tea plantations were established, which played a significant role in the local economy. The Belgians also introduced European-style education and healthcare systems, further transforming the region.

Rwanda gained independence from Belgium in 1962, marking a new era for Rubavu. The town continued to grow, benefiting from its scenic location on the shores of Lake Kivu. Tourism became an increasingly important industry as visitors were drawn to the natural beauty of the area. Rubavu's modernization efforts included improvements in transportation, communication, and public services.

The 1994 Rwandan Genocide had a profound impact on Rubavu, as it did on the entire country. The area saw significant violence and upheaval during this tragic period. In the aftermath, Rubavu, like the rest of Rwanda, embarked on a journey of reconciliation and rebuilding. Efforts were made to restore infrastructure, promote unity, and foster economic development. Today, Rubavu stands as a testament to Rwanda's resilience and recovery.

Rubavu is a melting pot of cultural heritage, with influences from various ethnic groups, including the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa. Traditional music, dance, and crafts are integral parts of the local culture. Visitors can experience traditional Rwandan performances and purchase hand-made crafts at local markets. The town's cultural festivals and events offer a glimpse into the rich traditions that have been preserved over generations.

Rubavu is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the majestic Lake Kivu and the surrounding hills. The town has become a hub for ecotourism, attracting visitors interested in exploring the great outdoors. Activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and boat tours on Lake Kivu provide opportunities to connect with nature. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the region's biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism.

Rubavu is located in the Western Province of Rwanda, on the shores of Lake Kivu. The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport (KGL), approximately 160 kilometers away. From Kigali, you can take a domestic flight to Rubavu's Rubavu Airport (formerly known as Gisenyi Airport). Alternatively, you can travel by road; the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours by car or bus. Luxury bus services and shared minibuses (matatus) operate between Kigali and Rubavu. For a scenic experience, consider a private car hire along the well-paved roads.

Rubavu is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis and motorcycle taxis (motos) are readily available and inexpensive. Public buses and minibuses operate within the city and to nearby towns. For a more independent exploration, you can rent a car from local agencies. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport for locals and can be rented for short trips around the city.

The official currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Rubavu, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas. International credit cards are widely accepted, but inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues.

Rubavu is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While violent crime is rare, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur. Specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists are not prevalent, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities, including the Rubavu District Hospital, are available in the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. The US Embassy in Kigali can also provide assistance to American citizens in case of emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Avoid excessive public displays of affection.

To experience Rubavu like a local, visit the local markets such as the Rubavu Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Rwandan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss a boat tour on Lake Kivu or a visit to the hot springs for a unique experience. For a taste of local nightlife, head to one of the bars or nightclubs in the town, where you can enjoy local music and dance. Participate in Umuganda, a community service activity that takes place on the last Saturday of each month.