A city street scene in Kigali, Rwanda, featuring modern high-rise buildings with reflective glass facades on both sides. Motorcyclists and a few pedestrians navigate the clean, well-maintained road bordered by manicured hedges and sidewalks. The sky is overcast with gray clouds, adding a dramatic backdrop to the urban landscape. In the distance, more buildings, including a distinctively shaped skyscraper, contribute to the city's skyline.

Global Learning in Rwanda - On Site

Connect with Rwanda: Exploring One Health for a More Sustainable World

Accommodations  

You will be staying at hotel accommodations in shared rooms throughout the program.

UC Davis reserves the right to change the accommodation location. Should this be necessary, we will arrange alternative lodging. Please note that elevators, air conditioners and other modern conveniences may not be available in all locations.

Meals

All meals are included in your program; students, the instructor and On-Site Coordinator will be eating together as a group. Breakfast is included at the hotels and group lunches and dinners are included at all program sites. There are plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan diets.

Excursions & Activities

Tentative excursions and activities include:

  • Visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamata Genocide Memorial and Murambi Genocide Memorial.
  • Discussion with Karongi Refugee Camp community members.
  • Tour of Zipline Rwanda, a drone delivery service that provides fast, on-demand delivery of medical supplies.
  • Visits to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus and UC Davis Gorilla Doctors site in Musanze.
  • Tour of Kakakopi Coffee Farm.
  • Visits to Gashora Girls Academy of Science and Technology and the Rwanda Institute of Conservation Agriculture.
  • Local dance performance.

Please note: These activities and excursions are tentative and subject to change. Participation in all program activities is mandatory.

Get to Know Your Destination

Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is a breathtaking country where natural beauty, culture, and conservation intersect. This journey will take you through Rwanda’s rich landscapes, from vibrant cities to serene lakesides, offering a deep dive into the interconnectedness of environmental health, wildlife, and local communities. This program is designed to be a blend of education, cultural immersion, and serious learning. The trip will include visits to three key regions in Rwanda.

Kigali

Our journey begins in Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda. Kigali is known for its cleanliness, safety, and hospitality, providing a perfect introduction to the country's cultural and historical tapestry. We will visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain an understanding of Rwanda’s history and the resilience of its people. The city is also a hub for innovation, where we will engage with local experts on topics of urban development and environmental sustainability.

Karongi

Next, we travel to Karongi, a tranquil town on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes. Karongi offers a peaceful setting, ideal for reflection. Here, we’ll explore the interplay between the local communities and the natural environment, including a visit to nearby coffee plantations that exemplify sustainable agricultural practices. We’ll also come to understand a segment of Rwanda's refugee community at the Karongi Refugee Camp. 

Musanze

Our adventure continues in Musanze, located in the shadow of the Virunga Mountains. Musanze is the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Here, you will witness the remarkable efforts of conservationists working to protect the gorillas and learn about the vital role that conservation plays in the region. 

Return to and Depart from Kigali

At the end of the trip, we will return to Kigali to reflect on our experiences and celebrate the journey. 

From Lonely Planet Rwanda: “Rwanda is a country of remarkable beauty, from its mountain landscapes to its verdant forests. It’s a place where culture and nature harmoniously coexist, offering a truly unique experience.”

Program Abroad Advisory of Student Risk

Participation in this UC Davis program abroad requires travel to and extended living in a foreign location(s) abroad. The UC Davis Global Learning Hub endeavors to reduce and mitigate risk wherever possible. However, the environments and risks associated with living in these locations are substantially different than those found during a regular course of study at UC Davis. All participants must download and review the following information prior to departure. Any questions should be directed to the Program Coordinator.

Student Experiences

Global Learning Hub Student Blogs and Articles

Check out student blogs, global learning, and student life across a variety of program experiences.

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