Rwanda’s history and future are alive in a town close to Volcanoes National Park. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is not an ordinary destination, it’s the heartbeat of tradition. For years, the lush forests surrounding the region were the hunting grounds of poachers. But that narrative took a hopeful turn.

Iby’Iwacu was born as a sanctuary—not just for culture but for people. For here reformed poachers became cultural ambassadors. Visitors step into a living story of Rwanda’s resilience through their performances and teachings. This is an instance of passive sightseeing also it’s a way to access the soul of a nation.

Each moment is an opportunity to live in a country that knows its past and is on the road to a sustainable future. At Iby’Iwacu, Rwanda’s past and present dance together in harmony, waiting to welcome you.

The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, established in 2005, is located near Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park in Nyabigoma. Its main task is to mediate between local communities and mountain gorilla conservation. But, before its creation, many locals relied on the park’s resources through illegal activities. Including poaching for bushmeat, timber extraction, and wild honey gathering. All of these activities were threatening wildlife conservation.

The village tackled these issues by undertaking projects that were helping to improve the livelihoods of reformed poachers. They’re able to make a living by selling handcrafted products to tourists in the village through this approach.

One notable program was launched in 2011 ‘Goats for Gorillas’. Under this initiative, for each gorilla trekker, a goat amount is donated to local households near the park. Over 10,000 goats have been distributed to improve food and economic security in communities. It has been very successful at reforming poachers so that they no longer depend on ownership of wildlife conservation.

Through these efforts, Iby’Iwacu has become a way for locals to show Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage, and to promote sustainable tourism and conservation. In this village, I illustrate the potential for local participation and alternative livelihoods to unite conservation interests with local needs to promote a more sustainable relationship between people and wildlife.

Visitors to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village can engage with the local community and learn about the etiquette and day to day life of Rwandans. Key aspects include:

• Greetings: Greeting is of great importance to Rwandans. As an example, using the right hand in a handshake is common practice.
• Use of Hands: When greeting, or eating, or giving or receiving items, it is customary to use the right hand. Where using one’s left hand is considered disrespectful.
• Body Language: Rwandans do not point with a finger or hand; instead, they use their head, chin, or mouth to point direction.
• Attire: Especially in rural areas modest dress is valued. Traditional dress like the mushanana for Women. A flowing dress used in various ceremonies shows here traditional dress.
• Traditional Practices: As part of the activities visitors can participate in traditional dances, including the Intore (Dance of Heroes), as well as local crafts like basket weaving.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is different in that it is a community driven tourism and conservation initiative. This has seen former poachers become cultural ambassadors, creating a special environment. With help of them, visitors can really get into Rwandan traditions. Key aspects that make Iby’Iwacu unique include:

• Community-Led Tourism: The local residents manage the village and make sure tourism is a direct benefit to them. It encourages sustainable development and gives locals the ability to share their heritage.
• Cultural Preservation: Iby’Iwacu is a living museum that includes replicas of royal residences and demonstrates traditional customs. This setup is to allow visitors to experience the rich cultural history of Rwanda firsthand. 
• Economic Empowerment: The village has since reduced the poaching activities by providing alternative livelihood through tourism. Now, former poachers make money performing traditional dances, crafting and guiding tours, helping communities and the conservation of wildlife. 
• Authentic Experiences: Visitors can dance to the Intore, or participate in their daily life during basket weaving, drinking banana beer, and visiting traditional healers to learn about local medicinal plants. They provide a real sense of Rwandan culture.

Through these initiatives, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for cultural exchange, conservation education, and sustainable community development.

Visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is a vibrant and immersive experience. Here’s what to expect:

• Warm Welcome: Enjoy lively music and dance performances as you’re greeted by the community.
• King’s Palace Tour: Explore a replica of a traditional royal palace and learn about Rwandan kingship.
• Traditional Dances: Participate in the Intore dance, known as the Dance of Heroes, and other cultural performances.
• Craft Demonstrations: Watch artisans create baskets, pottery, and other crafts, with a chance to buy unique souvenirs.
• Traditional Medicine: Meet healers who explain the use of local medicinal plants.
• Village Walks: Visit homes, schools, and farms to see daily life up close.
• Food Preparation: Learn to cook dishes like Bulgari and taste banana beer.
• Campfire Gatherings: End the day by sharing stories, songs, and dances around a cozy fire.

To fully appreciate the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village experience, consider the following tips:

• Engage Actively: Participate in activities such as traditional dances, craft-making, and food preparation to gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan culture.
• Respect Local Customs: Use your right hand when greeting or eating, and dress modestly to honor local traditions.
• Seek Permission for Photography: Always ask before taking photos, especially during ceremonies or of individuals, to respect privacy and cultural sensitivities.
• Support Local Artisans: Purchasing crafts directly from the village supports the community and helps preserve traditional arts.
• Maintain Environmental Cleanliness: Dispose of waste properly and avoid littering to keep the village environment clean and pleasant.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers meaningful ways to invest in cultural preservation and community development:

• Tourism Projects: In support of traditional performances, craft workshops, and guided tours, to bring in more visitors and help the local economy.
• Better Infrastructure: Increase visitor centers, transport, and eco-friendly lodging to better provide tourist experiences and satisfy sustainable travel requirements.
• Artisan Support: To help artisans improve and market their crafts generate new income opportunities, and reach a wider audience.
• Sustainable Farming: Organic farming and agritourism are the way to go in terms of food security, as well as providing unique visitor experiences.
• Education Programs: Once fund workshops and exhibits to spread the word about culture, conservation, and sustainability metro locally and across the globe.

The echoes of ingoma drums and the laughter of children have lighten the air. The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is the story of resilience and hope. Reformed poachers now guide visitors through the traditions that were being lost. Crafts weaved by skilled hands tell stories of peace and community.

Iby’Iwacu is much more than a cultural immersion for travelers, it’s a way to participate in a brighter future for Rwanda. By participating in the village’s activities, you’re not just a visitor but a vital part of the ongoing narrative of cultural preservation and community growth. When you leave, you take with you not just souvenirs but a deeper connection to a land where past and present walk hand in hand.