Things To Do
in Gatunda
Gatunda is a rural town in Rwanda's Eastern Province, set among rolling green hills and patchwork farms. Life here revolves around agriculture, markets, and a warm, friendly rural community. Visitors encounter a slower pace, colorful markets, and sweeping views of the plains and distant mountains.
While quiet, Gatunda serves as a gateway to nearby nature reserves and cultural encounters beyond Kigali's bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, savoring local Rwandan dishes. After breakfast, embark on a guided nature walk through the lush hills surrounding Gatunda, where you’ll witness the vibrant flora and fauna native to the region. The fresh mountain air and stunning views will invigorate your spirit as you acclimatize to the peaceful countryside.
For lunch, delight in a picnic featuring local delicacies amid the scenic backdrop of the hills. Afterward, visit the nearby Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you can explore the famous canopy walk and spot various primate species. This thrilling adventure allows you to appreciate Rwanda’s incredible biodiversity and the serenity of the forest.
Return to Gatunda and enjoy a traditional Rwandan dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste the flavors of the region. After dinner, join a cultural performance featuring traditional dance and music, providing insight into Rwandan heritage. As the night deepens, unwind with the sounds of nature surrounding you.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to visit local villages near Gatunda. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their daily lives, traditional crafts, and farming practices. Be sure to try your hand at some local crafts such as basket weaving or pottery, guided by skilled artisans.
Enjoy lunch with a local family, where you’ll share stories and experience authentic Rwandan hospitality. Afterward, participate in a cooking class, learning to prepare signature dishes such as Isombe or Ugali using locally sourced ingredients. This hands-on experience will deepen your understanding of Rwandan culture and culinary traditions.
As dusk approaches, sit around a bonfire with your hosts, sharing songs and stories under the starry sky. Enjoy a simple yet satisfying dinner prepared together, reinforcing the bonds made throughout the day. Let the warmth of community and culture fill your heart as you reflect on the experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🥗Vegetarian meal | $3-8 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse bed per night | $10-25 |
| 🚗Taxi within town | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic landscapes and welcoming communities
- Relatively easy access from Kigali and Akagera National Park
- Limited tourist infrastructure in rural areas
- Rugged roads can be challenging in rain
- "Muraho" - Hello
- "Amakuru?" - How are you?
- "Ndashimiye" - Thank you
- "Murakoze" - Thank you
- "Ndakumenya" - I would like
Places to Visit in Gatunda
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the eastern plains especially at sunrise and sunset.
Colorful stalls, locals buying produce and crafts—great for candid street photography.
Thatched-roof huts and rural farm scenes ideal for portraits and texture shots.
Food in Gatunda
Gatunda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cassava leaves stewed with peanut sauce, typically served with yams or plantains.
Must-Try!
Pumpkin and beans cooked together into a comforting stew.
Cornmeal or cassava-based porridge that accompanies stews.
Boiled plantains served with a flavorful peanut sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market with fresh produce, grains, and street snacks.
Popular street foods sold around market hours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Muraho or Amakuru? and offer a handshake; maintain friendly eye contact.
Ask permission before taking portraits; smiling and a small tip are appreciated.
Dress modestly in villages; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting homes.
Safety
Tipping in Gatunda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for guides and service; 5–10% in larger establishments, smaller amounts for informal eateries.
Cash is widely used in markets and guesthouses; mobile money (MTN/MTN Rwanda) is common; cards are less commonly accepted in rural Gatunda.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, great for hiking and photography; days warm and nights cool.
Afternoon showers are common; carry a light rain jacket.
Lush landscapes and waterfalls; trails can be muddy—wear sturdy footwear.
Warm days with cooler evenings; good for outdoor activities and markets.
Gatunda at Night
Hiking in Gatunda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic local hike with views over the eastern plains.
River and savanna landscapes; combine hiking with wildlife viewing on a longer trip.
Airports
How to reach Gatunda by plane.
Main international gateway to Rwanda; 2–4 hour drive to Gatunda depending on route and traffic.
Small domestic airstrip in the west; not practical for Gatunda but listed as a reference for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly agrarian residents with languages including Kinyarwanda, French, and English.
A growing number of young people with access to mobile phones and schools.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches are common in towns and schools.
Played in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gatunda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fresh vegetables, beans, ugali or rice are readily available; ask for plant-based stews and sides.