Tucked away in the lush green hills of Rwanda’s Western Province, Ibere rya Bigogwe is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a place where tradition, identity, and nature blend into one unforgettable experience.
Found in Bigogwe Sector, Nyabihu District, Ibere rya Bigogwe (literally “the breast of Bigogwe”) gets its name from a distinct hill shaped like a woman’s breast, towering over the road to Rubavu. But what truly sets this village apart isn’t just the landscape—it’s the deep bond between the people and their cows.
In Bigogwe, cows are everything. They are not only a source of milk and income but also symbols of pride, companionship, and cultural identity. “Cows are my siblings, my comfort zone, and my love,” says Ngabo Alexis Karegeya, founder of the Ibere rya Bigogwe experience. “They raised me, fed me, and shaped who I am.”
From Twitter to tourism
Ngabo’s journey started in an unexpected place—Twitter. During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, he opened an account to share photos and stories about his life growing up among cattle herders. He had no business plan, no startup funds, and no experience—just passion and pride in his roots.
He named his account @visit_bigogwe, and to his surprise, people responded. They were inspired by the authenticity of his posts and curious to visit. In May 2021, right after graduating with a degree in Business Administration, Ngabo officially launched a local tourism initiative.
From online storytelling, he built a real-life experience, bringing travelers into the world of the Bagogwe, a sub-group of the Banyampinga people known for their close relationship with cattle and nature.
A cultural revival on the hills
At Ibere rya Bigogwe, visitors can enjoy a range of hands-on experiences: scenic hikes through the hills, storytelling under the stars, traditional cow milking, tasting fresh milk and local snacks, and even planting trees as part of ecological conservation efforts.
Perhaps the most emotional moment came in 2024, when Ngabo reintroduced the royal Inyambo cows to Bigogwe after 50 years of absence. These majestic long-horned cattle, once reserved for kings and cultural ceremonies, are now part of the guest experience, bringing history full circle.
With support from local banks and the government, Ngabo’s dream is expanding. He now employs a small but passionate team, hosts both Rwandan and international guests, and continues to use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to share Bigogwe’s story with the world.
Ngabo’s personal mission
Ngabo’s passion is deeply personal. Growing up in Bigogwe, cows were central to daily life. Children sang to them, elders praised them, and families relied on them. Their milk was food, their hides were warmth, and their horns were wealth. Even marriage customs revolved around them.
But everything changed when Ngabo left for college in Kigali.
“I was shocked that so many of my classmates had never heard of Bigogwe,” he recalls. “They didn’t know where it was or what it stood for. I was angry at first, but I turned that frustration into action.”
By using social media, Ngabo made Bigogwe visible. What began as a personal memory-sharing space turned into a platform for cultural preservation and rural development. His story reminds us that our roots can be our greatest strength, and that even forgotten places can shine with the right storyteller.
The road ahead
Ibere rya Bigogwe is still growing. With more infrastructure, support, and visibility, it could become one of Rwanda’s top cultural destinations. But at its heart, it will always remain a place where cows roam free, stories are sacred, and the hills whisper the memories of generations.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet hike, a cultural journey, or simply a taste of authentic Rwanda, Bigogwe welcomes you with open arms and warm milk.
