Tea was introduced in Rwanda in 1952 and is now one of the country’s major exports. The fertile volcanic soil and temperate climate make for perfect tea-growing conditions.
Most of the tea comes from large plantations. A small contribution comes from tea cooperatives and private growers. You can see tea plants covering the rolling hills. Their rich green is a striking contrast to the blue skies, dirt roads, and sunshine.
Processing tea leaves involves 12 tea factories across the country. A number of plantations are open to the public. This allows anyone who visits to learn about the process of harvesting and processing tea. This enables visitors to There is also the opportunity to taste the results.
Tea plantation tours take place in a variety of locations across Rwanda, with the major ones being around Nyungwe National Park – Gisoyu and Gisakura.
Gisovu Tea
Tucked away at the far northern edge of Nyungwe National Park, the estate is breathtaking. The shimmering fields and winding pathways of the Gisovu Tea Estate sit right up against the primeval Nyungwe forest. The meticulous rows of tea draw a sharp contrast with the wild forest greenery just behind them.
The estate offers both day tours and accommodation, so after a tour of the grounds and cupping ceremony. those with time to spare can unwind here, mountain bike through the grounds. You can simply soak up the serenity over never-ending cups of the world’s finest tea.
Gisakura Tea
You will find it hugging the undulating hills at the western fringes of Nyungwe Forest National Park. The Gisakura Tea Estate is among the most famous of Rwanda’s tea plantations. It is certainly among the most beautiful. Tours and tastings are easily arranged, and while there is currently no accommodation on the plantation itself. There are guesthouses just a short walk or drive away.
Keep an eye out for the troop of Colobus monkeys which live in a patch of forest within the plantation.
