Gorilla Permits Rwanda — 6 Years of Trusted Service
Cultural Experience
Immerse yourself in authentic Rwandan traditions, music, and daily life at the foot of Volcanoes National Park.
Located in Kinigi at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Rwanda. The name translates to “treasures of our home” in Kinyarwanda. Established in 2006 as a community-based tourism initiative, the village provides alternative livelihoods for former poachers and their families, standing as a powerful example of how tourism can drive conservation and community development.
Before the village existed, many local men worked as poachers in Volcanoes National Park. The Rwanda Development Board, in partnership with the African Wildlife Foundation, established the cultural village to provide sustainable employment. Former poachers were trained as cultural performers, guides, and artisans. Today the village employs over 100 local people and has become one of Rwanda’s most popular cultural attractions.
Your visit begins with a lively welcome ceremony featuring the Intore dance, characterized by graceful movements, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic drumming. Visitors are encouraged to participate.
Observe daily activities such as banana beer brewing, grinding sorghum, milking cows, and cooking traditional dishes. Village elders share stories about Rwandan history and customs.
Former poachers demonstrate traditional hunting techniques including archery and trap-setting. Visitors can try their hand at archery under patient guidance.
The village healer explains the uses of various plants, roots, and barks in treating common ailments, demonstrating knowledge passed down through generations.
Local artisans demonstrate basket weaving (agaseke), pottery, and wood carving. Purchase high-quality handicrafts directly from the artisans.
Former poachers have become conservation ambassadors. The village contributes to local schools, healthcare, and infrastructure. A portion of every entrance fee supports a local health clinic serving over 10,000 people.
Located a 10-minute drive from Volcanoes National Park headquarters. Most visitors combine a visit with gorilla trekking. Guided tours last 1-2 hours. Entrance fees range from $30 to $50 per person. Open daily.
Contact us to include Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in your Rwanda itinerary.
Located at the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village offers visitors a rare window into traditional Rwandan life. The village was established by former poachers and their families, who transformed their livelihoods from hunting to hosting after recognising the value of conservation and tourism.
Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and invited to participate in daily village activities. The experience provides a meaningful connection to Rwanda's cultural heritage while directly supporting the local community.
"Iby'Iwacu" translates to "our treasure" — a fitting name for a place that celebrates and preserves the traditions of the Rwandan people.
Watch energetic Intore dancers perform — or join in. The rhythmic drumming and choreographed movements tell stories of Rwandan history and celebration.
Learn to play the ingoma, the traditional Rwandan drum. The village elders teach rhythms passed down through generations.
Help prepare a traditional Rwandan meal using locally sourced ingredients. Learn to cook staples like ugali, isombe, and brochettes over an open fire.
Watch artisans weave traditional baskets and carve wooden sculptures. You can purchase authentic souvenirs directly from the makers.
Iby'Iwacu was founded by a group of former poachers who chose to abandon hunting and embrace conservation. The village now provides sustainable income for over 50 families through tourism, craft sales, and cultural performances.
Revenue from visitor fees goes directly to community projects including:
Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village is located near the Kinigi sector, just a 10-minute drive from the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. Most visitors combine a morning gorilla trek with an afternoon cultural visit.
The village is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Guided tours last approximately 2–3 hours and include all activities. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and an open mind. Tips for performers and artisans are appreciated though not required.
