Top 6 Pieces of Advice Before You Hit the Congo Nile Trail
The better you prepare for your hike or ride on Rwanda’s Lake Kivu shores, the more you will enjoy it. Here are our top 6 pieces of advice:
1. Set Realistic Expectations
Mental preparation is as important as physical fitness. Understand the difficulty level of every day on the way. Know that it might be long, steep, hot, cold, or all of the above. Learn as much as you can about your planned route. Our own Congo Nile Trail page is just one of the many sources you can find online.
2. Trust Local Guides
Hire an experienced guide you can trust, don’t go for the cheapest option you run into. Ask as many questions as you want before committing. Once you select among the guides on offer, put your trust in them. Listen to their advice, follow their pace, and take note of any cultural differences they point out.
3. Accept Connectivity Hiccups
Even though the entire Trail is well covered by mobile telephony networks, there are challenging spots around Kinunu and Musasa. General service disruptions aren’t common but can happen. Tell your mother not to worry if she can’t get you on the phone every second of every day.
4. Embrace Simplicity
Accommodation on the Trail can be quite basic. Don’t be shocked if you encounter bucket showers and simple meals. Expect situations like that at Cyimbili, Bumba, Mugonero, Karengera, and Shangi — these aren’t luxury resorts! Aren’t you in rural Africa to enjoy the simplicity of life?
5. Don’t Let the Weather Shock You
Get ready for abrupt weather changes, and don’t rely on the outdated rainy/dry season concepts. One minute it is sunny, and the next it could be pouring down. This may necessitate changes in routes, rescheduling or delays. Don’t let that ruin your experience, flexibility is essential.
6. Know Your “Why”
There will be moments, even for the most experienced hikers and bikers, when the going becomes challenging. In those moments of struggle, remind yourself why you’re doing the Congo Nile Trail. Is it for adventure, personal growth, challenge, or the love of nature? Knowing your “why” will carry you through.
And above all else, remember you are on the Trail to have fun, and make the most of it!
text by Enock Musabyimana; photo by Cesar Niyonkuru
