Gorilla Guardians Cultural Village

Gorilla Guardians Village, also known as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, is a unique community tourism experience that offers visitors an insight into Rwandan traditions, history, and daily life. More than just a cultural village, this initiative was created to rehabilitate former poachers, providing them with alternative livelihoods while preserving the region’s natural heritage. The village is located in Kinigi near Volcanoes National Park. 

A visit to Gorilla Guardians Village allows you to immerse yourself in Rwandan culture, engage with local communities, and contribute to sustainable tourism. The villagers, many of whom once relied on the national park for survival, now share their traditions with guests, offering an unforgettable interactive experience filled with storytelling, music, and hands-on activities.

What to Expect at Gorilla Guardians Village

A trip to Gorilla Guardians Village is an engaging experience to say the least. Prepare with some direct engagement with local performers artisans and others from the community. Whether you stay for a few hours or choose to overnight in a traditional hut, you’ll be welcomed as a guest and invited to participate in authentic cultural activities, such as:

1. Cultural Walk & Community Life

A guided walk through the village, led by a community member, to explore local homes, traditional huts, schools, and markets. This tour offers a genuine insight into Rwandan rural life, allowing visitors to engage with families, elders, and artisans.

2. Be a King for a Day

Step back in time with a visit to the King’s Palace replica, where you’ll learn about Rwanda’s royal history and symbolic traditions. Through a village ceremony, visitors can be enthroned as a king, wearing traditional garments and holding a ceremonial spear while learning about ancient leadership customs.

3. Traditional Music & Dance Performances

Experience the vibrant rhythms of Rwanda through eight different types of traditional dance performed by men, women, youth, and children. The Intore warriors’ dance, drumming performances, and traditional songs like the famous Songs of the Gorillas will leave you mesmerized. Guests are encouraged to join in the drumming and dancing for an immersive experience so be prepared!

4. Meet a Traditional Healer

Discover the ancient wisdom of Rwandan herbal medicine by visiting a local traditional healer. Learn about medicinal trees, shrubs, and plants used to treat ailments and see how these remedies have been passed down through generations.

5. Hands-On Cultural Experiences

Banana Beer Brewing: Take part in the traditional banana beer-making process and sample the local brew.
Pottery Making with the Batwa: Learn ancient pottery techniques from the Batwa pygmies, one of Rwanda’s oldest communities.
Craft Making: Watch and participate in the crafting of baskets, jewelry, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Cooking & Dining: Prepare and enjoy a traditional Rwandan meal with the villagers.

6. Learn About Conservation & the Gorilla Connection

Gorilla Guardians Village plays a key role in wildlife conservation, with many of its members being former poachers who now advocate for gorilla protection. Hear firsthand stories about the Batwa’s survival skills, traditional hunting techniques, and how poaching alternatives have changed their lives.

7. Local School & Community Engagement

Visitors can visit a local school, interact with students, and even participate in a lesson if they are teachers. You can also join a friendly football match with locals or exchange experiences through storytelling sessions.

Shopping & Supporting Local Communities

Before leaving, explore the village craft shop, where you can purchase unique souvenirs such as:
Handmade woven baskets
Traditional wood carvings
Locally made jewelry and fabrics

Each purchase supports the local artisans and helps sustain the community. or arrange a visit through a local tour operator