Iby'iwacu Cultural Village- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled on the fringes of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District, the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village invites you into the heart of Rwanda’s living heritage. The name “Iby’iwacu” in Kinyarwanda translates to “treasures of our home”, a fitting description for a place where traditions are not only preserved—they’re shared.

What elevates Iby’iwacu beyond a typical cultural stop is its purposeful foundation. The village emerged as a community-owned enterprise aimed at offering former poachers a viable livelihood through culture and tourism, turning the tide from wildlife conflict toward conservation and local empowerment.

Today, the village stands not just as a visitor attraction, but as a model of community-based tourism where local people lead and benefit. As you arrive you’ll see the familiar green hills of Rwanda, and you’ll begin to sense that this is a place of connection—between people, culture and place.

Traditional Performances

One of the first things you’ll notice is the sound of drums and the sight of dancing. The Intore dance—sometimes called the “warrior dance”—is a highlight, featuring rhythmic drumming, energetic leaps and symbolic costume. Visitors are often invited to participate, creating a memorable moment of cultural exchange.

Hands-on Workshops

Beyond watching, you can join in. Learn how to weave the iconic Agaseke basket, try your hand at pottery, or grind sorghum grain with traditional stones. A fun and meaningful way to engage.

In the banana-beer demonstration you’ll see how bananas are fermented to create a local brew—a sensory experience rooted in local tradition.

Village Life & Heritage

Walk through the replica of a traditional king’s palace, learn how the old Rwandan monarchy functioned, then engage with a community walk where you visit homes, meet local artisans, and observe daily life.

Traditional medicine is also featured: local healers demonstrate plant-based remedies and the role of herbs in the community.

Food & Local Living

Your visit can include a local meal—share food prepared in traditional style, chat with your hosts, and dine among the hills. It’s one thing to observe culture, another to taste it.

Getting there & logistics

From Kigali it takes about 2–3 hours to reach the Musanze region where Iby’iwacu lies. It’s often added as a half-day or full-day extension to your gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park.

Whether you have a few hours after trekking or choose a dedicated cultural tour, try to arrive in the morning or early afternoon to make the most of the activities.

Why your visit matters

By visiting Iby’iwacu, you support more than an interesting cultural stop—you contribute directly to a community initiative that replaced poaching with sustainable livelihoods. The revenue generated helps education, health services and conservation efforts in the region.

In effect, you become part of a story of transformation: local people reclaiming their culture and environment and inviting you to join the journey.

Responsible visitor tips

• Ask permission before photographing individuals.
• Dress modestly and show respect for local customs.
• Purchase authentic handicrafts from the artisans—that supports the community.
• Treat the village environment with care: no littering, avoid disturbing plant life.
• Engage—ask the hosts about their story, share your own respectfully.