BATWA TRAIL EXPERIENCE

The Batwa Trail allows you to discover the local traditional culture, that of the Pygmies. Pygmies lived in the forest until 1991. This cultural hike (and one of solidarity since part of the funds goes to the community) is led by Twa guides who describe along the way the different characteristics of their former life in the forest: hunting techniques, configuration of huts, medicinal plants, collection of honey (of excellent quality) in wild beehives, beliefs... The walk ends with a visit to a lava tunnel (Garama Cave) in which the Batwa took refuge during conflicts with neighbouring populations. 200 m long, it is part of a network of galleries that are said to cross the mountain to Rwanda. The Garama cave, in addition to the protection it provided, also served as a court of justice, royal residence and place of palaver. Bring good walking shoes and a good torch (with batteries) for the cave. At the end of the route, twa dances and songs are usually organized. The hike takes about three to four hours. Relatively easy and very pleasant, the Batwa Trail is one of the most informative and respectful tourism initiatives in the region for anyone wishing to learn about the culture of the Batwa, who were robbed of their land (without compensation) and continue to be despised, discriminated against and exploited by both the administration and Bantu farmers.