Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Bigogwe, a picturesque area tucked away in Nyabihu District, Western province. While not one to typically endorse destinations, I felt compelled to share my experience after discovering the charm of this lesser-known locale.

If you're active on social media, you may have stumbled upon posts by Ngabo Karegeya, the driving force behind the &039;Visit Bigogwe' initiative. His grassroots campaign has brought attention to his hometown as a must-visit spot. Despite my initial hesitation, I decided to see what all the buzz was about—and I'm grateful I did.

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Ngabo's passion for his roots has transformed Bigogwe into a destination that appeals to both locals and travelers alike. As a native of this area, his efforts have unveiled the natural beauty and cultural richness of this hidden gem.

Most Rwandans typically don’t visit tourist attractions as frequently as foreigners do. However, this particular destination sees a significant number of Rwandan visitors. It's not the typical wildlife encounters with lions, elephants, or gorillas that draw them here; it's the appreciation for farm animals, especially cows.

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Setting off on our journey to Bigogwe on a Saturday evening, I couldn't comprehend why a group of over 20 people was heading to visit cows. Despite being warned about the cold weather in our pre-trip WhatsApp group, I underestimated its severity. As we arrived after a three-hour bus ride from Kigali, I soon realized that Bigogwe is one of the coldest places in Rwanda, with temperatures that drop to 10 degree Celsius at times.

After a three-hour bus journey from Kigali, we arrived at the Nyabihu-Rubavu border, marked by an arch along the main Rubavu-Musanze road. Here, Ngabo Karegeya's office caters to tourists visiting his farm. Equipped with blankets to fend off the cold, we set out towards the farm, passing through a valley of green farms and the nearby Gishwati natural forest on our left.

The adventure

The morning began with a chilly awakening, a typical experience for tent camping, unfamiliar for us Rwandans unaccustomed to such adventures. Despite the initial shock, we gathered around a warm bonfire to kick off the day.

As we gathered, most of us realized our phone batteries had drained overnight, with only a fortunate few armed with power banks. Nonetheless, we shared stories and laughter, roasting sweet potatoes over the flames for a cozy breakfast.

With the sun rising slowly, our group photographer flitted around, capturing moments of our adventure. It seemed they all shared a love for photos, a common trait among travelers, although I must confess, I'm not much of a traveler myself.

At Bigogwe, visitors get a taste of cowboy life, whether for a day or just a few hours. From milking cows with a stunning hilltop backdrop to enjoying friendly stick fighting matches, there's plenty of fun to be had. Stick fighting, in particular, caught my interest, as the cowboys engaged in spirited bouts with occasional dropped sticks, adding to the excitement.

Aside from the action-packed activities, we were also introduced to high jumping, a nostalgic reminder of childhood games. Despite not having jumped in years, I did the challenge, successfully completing each jump. It's worth mentioning that while many attempted the jumps, only a select few, including myself were able to succeed.

The food

Let's dive into the culinary experience! As soon as you arrive at the campsite, you'll be greeted by an array of traditional dishes. Warm water is on hand for handwashing, though I'll admit, I'd rather skip it than endure the cold. But trust me, the food more than makes up for it.

There’s an unlimited supply of piping hot milk, perfect for warming up on chilly mornings. It's practically impossible to resist until you're completely full. From savory sweet potatoes to hearty beans, the menu offers a mix of flavors. And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, we were treated to a surprise addition of chips during our final lunch – a delicious reminder of home that had us all feeling nostalgic.

Highlights of the trip?

Camping under the stars was truly magical, away from the distractions of modern technology, allowing us to marvel at the night sky. Hiking Ibere rya Bigogwe offered breathtaking scenery, and exploring the area provided insights into traditional natural plants

We had the privilege of being among the first to ascend a hill overlooking four districts of Rwanda, where we discovered a historical water tank that once served the local community in the 90s. We also experienced the rich Bagogwe tradition, the cowboys treated us to various traditional songs and dances, including the lively Ikinyemera dance. Engaging in storytelling around the campfire added to the sense of camaraderie and helped us appreciate the cultural heritage of the area.

If you're planning a visit, heed this advice: Bigogwe's terrain consists of hills, and it can be quite chilly even when the sun is shining. Be sure to pack hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, a sweater, and a windproof jacket to stay warm. A small blanket, bottled water, toiletries, a power bank, and a torch are essential items to bring along, if you plan on having a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

For those who enjoy alcoholic beverages, it's advisable to bring your own bottle to keep the spirits high during the night.

While Bigogwe has always been known for its natural beauty and welcoming culture, it's only in recent years that it has emerged as a tourist destination.0 Beyond its scenic appeal, the area holds historical significance as one of the sites where the tragic events of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi unfolded. Many of its Tutsi residents lost their lives during this dark chapter in history.

Despite the hardships faced by the Bagogwe community and their livestock, their land has endured and grown, becoming an increasingly appealing destination. Today, it stands as a cultural and tourist spot in the country, with locals eager to share their history and heritage with visitors.

Personally, I believe it would be valuable for more Rwandans to explore this scenic area and rediscover the beauty of our homeland, often dubbed the land of a thousand hills. The distinct cowboy culture found here offers a unique experience that many have yet to encounter. As for myself, I look forward to returning at my leisure, equipped with a fully charged phone to capture and share the experience with others.