Visit Rwanda Partners with Atlético de Madrid

Visit Rwanda partners with Atlético de Madrid as a new sponsor until June 30, 2028. This deal expands Rwanda’s push into global sports and tourism. Rwanda already works with clubs like Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal. Now it enters Spanish football through Atlético de Madrid. The partnership places Visit Rwanda on training kits and warm-up jerseys. These will appear during the LaLiga matches and other matches where the both men’s and women’s teams will display the brand. Rwanda also gains brand spots at the stadium and on the club’s digital channels. This partnership builds visibility for Rwanda across Europe.

Rwanda Becomes Atlético’s First African Partner

This deal marks the first time an African brand joins Atlético’s list of sponsors. The move reflects Rwanda’s aim to grow its global image. Rwanda will be the official training and tourist destination sponsor. It also becomes Atlético’s official coffee supplier. Rwanda gets to showcase itself as a place for tourism, business, and sports. The country hopes to attract more visitors and investors from Spain and beyond.

Why Rwanda Chose Atlético de Madrid

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, said the deal supports Rwanda’s long-term goals. Rwanda values strength, discipline, and growth. These values match those of Atlético de Madrid. Rwanda wants to use this partnership to promote tourism, support youth, and grow local talent. He believes this will help many young Africans find new chances through sports.

Atlético Sees Great Potential

Óscar Mayo, General Director of Revenue and Operations at Atlético, praised Rwanda’s role as a strong partner. He noted that Visit Rwanda fits the club’s vision to expand worldwide. He said Rwanda is growing fast and sees big benefits from this deal. The club plans to promote Rwanda through matches, fan events, and digital content.

From Madrid to Rwanda: Things to Do

Spain’s strong links with Rwanda through Atlético make it easy for fans to explore Rwanda. Direct flights from Europe land in Kigali. Once in Rwanda, visitors find nature, culture, and wildlife. Let’s look at the top things to do.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park lies in northern Rwanda. It is home to endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking draws many travelers each year. Trained guides lead visitors through dense forests. Hikes range from two to six hours, depending on where the gorillas are.

You need a gorilla permit to visit. The permit costs $1,500 per person. You can buy it from the Rwanda Development Board or trusted tour operators like Iconic Africa Safaris. These permits support conservation and community projects.

Treks begin early in the morning. Rangers give briefings before the hikes. You learn how to behave around gorillas. Visitors spend one hour with the gorilla family. Rangers enforce this time strictly.

The best time to go is during the dry seasons. These run from June to September and December to February. Trails stay dry, and sightings are more likely. Bring hiking boots, rain jackets, and gloves. Hire a porter to carry your bag and help on steep trails.

Learn History at the Kigali Genocide Memorial

The Kigali Genocide Memorial honors victims of the 1994 genocide. It holds remains of over 250,000 people. The center teaches about the events that led to the genocide. It also shows Rwanda’s road to peace.

Displays include photos, personal items, and survivor stories. Visitors walk through gardens and quiet spaces for reflection. Entry is free, but donations support education and upkeep. The memorial lies in Gisozi, a short drive from the city center.

It’s best to spend one to two hours here. Guides are available, or you can use an audio guide. The memorial helps visitors understand Rwanda’s past and hopes for the future.

Wildlife Safaris in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park lies in eastern Rwanda. It covers savannah, lakes, and forests. The park is the only place in Rwanda to see the “Big Five.” These include lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.

Visitors explore the park by vehicle. Morning and evening game drives offer great chances to see animals. Boat rides on Lake Ihema show hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

Dry months (June to September and December to February) are best for safaris. Roads are better, and animals stay near water sources.

Discover Nature in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe lies in southwest Rwanda. This ancient forest is rich in life. It holds many bird species and primates. Chimpanzee trekking is popular here. Treks start early. Guides follow chimp calls and movements. Visitors watch the chimps for an hour. Permits cost around $90 and should be booked early.

Nyungwe also has colobus monkeys, waterfalls, and many birds. Birders will love it. More than 300 bird species live here. The canopy walkway gives views over treetops. It stretches 200 meters and hangs 50 meters high.

You can hike to waterfalls or take guided nature walks. The forest is cool, so bring warm clothes and hiking boots. Rain falls often, even in the dry season.

Explore Rwandan Culture at Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

Near Volcanoes National Park, Iby’iwacu Cultural Village shows Rwanda’s traditions. Visitors meet local people, watch dances, and learn skills like weaving.

Ex-fighters now work here as guides, dancers, and teachers. They share stories of change and healing. You might try traditional cooking or learn how to shoot a bow and arrow. Visitors wear traditional clothes and join dances. You can also learn about ancient kings, healing herbs, and crafts. A visit takes about two hours. It fits well after a gorilla trek. The village supports local jobs and keeps culture alive. Entry fees help fund schools and health services.

Relax at Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu sits between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It offers peace after busy treks. Towns like Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu line the lake.

You can swim, boat, or relax on the beach. The water is safe and warm. Resorts offer good food, fresh fish, and local drinks. Boat rides take you to small islands. Some hold coffee farms or churches. You may visit hot springs or paddle a kayak. Evenings at Lake Kivu bring cool breezes and views of the hills. Stay for a night or two to enjoy the calm.

Start Planning Your Visit

Visit Rwanda’s partnership with Atlético de Madrid makes it easier to learn about Rwanda. Fans from Spain now hear about Rwanda through football. Direct flights link Spain and Kigali.

Tour companies like Iconic Africa Safaris help with bookings, permits, and travel plans. They handle everything from gorilla trekking to boat rides.