Hidden gems of Buhanga Eco-Park
Buhanga Eco park is a small park but meaningful area within Volcanoes National Park, covering about 31 hectares of forest. Buhanga Eco Park is situated in the Nyakinama community, about 8 kilometers west of Musanze town. Buhanga is a Kinyarwanda word that literally means “creation,” and tradition has it that Rwanda originated here. Gihanga, Rwanda’s first king is supposed to have created the Kingdom of Rwanda from this spot. It holds special spiritual significance for local people because it is where traditional Kings of Yore were once crowned. during these ceremonies, kings would go thorough special rituals to officially become rulers, right in this forest
The forest itself is lively and full of various plants and animals. However, visiting it can be a bit challenging because the ground is mostly rocky, and the tall tress with their thick roots and hanging vines make walking through the area a bit tricky.
Because of its sacred importance, Buhanga Forest has remained largely untouched, even though Rwanda faces a lot of land division and shortages. The forest is filled with many drago and ficus trees, creating a thick, green canopy. Visitors exploring Rwanda Wildlife Safari can walk freely beneath these trees. The guided tour through Buhanga is done along trails made of lave stones, offering a unique experience in this historic and revered forest.
The morning hours and the afternoon hours of the day are the best time to visit the forest as these will enable visitors and travelers to have a great feel of the sights and sounds of the beautiful bird species in the forest.
What to see in Buhanga Eco Park.
Buhanga Eco Park is a place full of hidden and visible treasures. Some parts are open for visitors to explore, while other areas are tucked way the mysterious ritual forest. The park is divided into different sections that take visitors back to ancient times, such as the conference platform, the three-in-one tree, the dark cave, and the ditch.
The dark cave.
The dark cave is a special and mysterious spot filled with history. It was once a resting place for the ancient King of the Yore people. After travelling quickly in his royal “Ingobyi” carriage, the king would stop here to refresh himself before going to the conference podium.
From the King’s place in Nyanza, the King would be swiftly moved to a sacred spring water near the cave. There, he would take a special bath made from herbs gathered from the ditch. This bath was believed to bring good luck and was called “Fortune bestowing bath” and locally known as “Kwihagira”.
The three in one tree.
The three-in-one tree, also known locally as “Inyabantu” in the Kinyarwanda, is an important symbol for the people of Rwanda. It is commonly called “Umuvumu,” which means “the curse.” According to local legend, the tree represents Rwanda’s three ethnic tribes, specifically the Tutsi, Hutu, and Twa. Other trees include Umusando, Igihondohondo, and Ibigabiro, some of which are over 300 years old. The Buhanga Sacred Walk also introduces guests to 150 different bird species. Following the local stories, long time ago, local men from the area cut the trees for firewood. However, before they could collect it, the wood mysteriously returned to the tree on its own. Tragically, the next day, all those men and their families died. Because of this story, many Rwandese see the tree as a symbol pf a curse. Despite this, the tree is also seen as a sign of unity and harmony, representing the three main ethnic groups of Rwanda coming together in peace.
Buhanga’s small ditch.
Buhanga’s small ditch in Eco Park is where the King’s assistants would pick a wide range of different herbs meant for the King’s fortune bestowing bath. The King’s assistants were locally known as “Abiru” in Kinyarwanda. The herbs were mixed into spring water, which was cleaned and prepared by the Abiru before the King took his bath.
The conference podium.
The old conference podium was a special place where the King would sit and be officially crowned. It was also where he received his royal tittles, like “Umwami” of Rwanda. During the king’s reign, important symbols of Kingship were presented to him at this spot. It was believed to be a sacred place where the King would also receive blessings and protection from the gods. Elders, clan heads, advisory committees and all royals would bless the Kingship ceremonies right from this ancient spot.
What can you combine your Buhanga Eco-Park Tour
Volcanoes Nature Park in Rwanda offers a range of activities that you can enjoy along with your trip to Buhanga woodland. Here are some options you might want to try:
Gorilla Trekking
For $500, visitors have the chance to see mountain gorillas in the national park. You can go gorilla trekking any time of year, but the best months are from June to September when it’s busiest. To participate, you need to get a special permit, which is only available to people aged 18 and older. Visitors should arrive on time since tracking activities begin at 7 a.m. at the park’s headquarters in Kinigi. For more details, check out the link on Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Golden monkeys tracking
Trekking to see the golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park is an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging. Visitors have the chance to see two groups of these playful monkeys, each made up of about 80 members. The treks start early in the morning at 7 a.m. To go on a golden monkey trek, you’ll need a permit, which costs around USD 100. These permits are valid for trips in both Rwanda and Uganda.
Hike to Karisoke Research Centre & Dian Fossey Gravesite.
if you’re visiting Volcanoes National Park, you can take a hike to see Dian Fossey’s tomb and visit to the Karisoke Research Centre, all of which are located inside the park. For more details, check out our page about Dian Fossey. The entire experience costs $100 USD per person.
Mountain Climbing
This activity involves hiking on some of the beautiful mountains, Bisoke, Muhabura, or Gahinga Mountains are included in this activity. Tourists on Mount Karisimbi hiking excursions can witness birds, wildlife like as mountain gorillas and forest elephants, and insect species. Visitors hiking Mount Bisoke may witness sites such as Crater Lake on the mountain’s crest. The price for a hike in Volcanoes National Park usually ranges from $75 to $100 per person.
Ibyi’wacu Community Tour
When visiting Volcanoes National Park, it’s a great idea to also explore the nearby villages. During cultural tours, visitors have the chance to experience local life by visiting Ibyi’wacu community village. Here, you can meet the residents, enjoy performances by the traditional Intore dance group, and walk around the charming village streets.
For reservations, please contact our team at Elephant Whispers Safaris for your unforgettable safari in Buhanga Eco Park
