CYCLING TOURISM LAUNCHED IN RWANDA

Local and foreign tourists can now easily wind down by enjoying a ride around the country’s hills thanks to cycling tourism schemes launched by Rwanda Cycling Federation (Ferwacy) over the weekend.

The federation unveiled the cycling tourism on Saturday at the Africa Rising Cycling Centre, in Musanze District, with dozens of local and foreign tourists taking part in a cycling exercise that went around the National Volcano Park.

“We are calling upon those who are fond of the bicycle to take part in cycling tourism; we welcome those who may need to train themselves, riding professionals and non-professionals and cycling teams that may need to prepare for competitions,” he noted.

The federation, Murenzi revealed, is working hand-in-hand with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to ensure the smooth running and growth of cycling tourism.

He said that a visitor who shows up for the ride with their own bicycle pay Rwf25,000 while those hiring bicycles from the federation add an extra Rwf10,000 per individual.

“As part of the package, we provide tour guides and other equipment for visitors to have the best experience, we also arrange accommodation at our facility (Africa Raising Cycling Centre) for those who may need to stay.”

Murenzi also urged local communities to play a big role in cycling tourism by warmly welcoming tourists in their respective villages.

Ruben Habarurema, the manager of Africa Rising Cycling Centre – a Musanze-based training hub for local and international riders, noted that cycling tourism was timely given that previously the centre would receive a number of tourists requesting to ride.

“Now-on whoever needs to ride is welcome at our centre, all is set. We have a summer package that will go through September and a Christmas package that will run from November to December,” he said

While taking part in cycling tourism, tourists should trail Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, Buhanga Eco-Park and some other touristic attractions in the North-West of Rwanda.

Ndoba Hakim

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