The Batwa, often referred to as Twa, are a native tribe from Central Africa. who are thought to have resided in the national parks of Mgahinga Gorilla Forest and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, that borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is also thought that they lived in the Kisoro district’s Echuya forest reserve. The Batwa take pride in their own culture and live in harmony despite having modest homes big enough to accommodate the entire family.
Batwa Cultural trail
This trail digs deep into the culture of the Batwa. Listen to the history of the people of Echuya forest more especially from the elders as they take you through the early life in the forest, activities carried out like hunting and items that were used in the process, gathering fruits, medicinal herbs used to cure different diseases among others. It should be noted that Batwa believe in Imaana or Nyagasani as their supreme healer and savior in case of any problem.
Forest Trail
Get to see the beautiful scenery of Echuya forest as you trek through the forest cave. Dig deep into the flora and fauna of this forest, giving you opportunities of seeing as many tree species as possible since over 20 tree species have been recorded in Echuya forest for example Sinarundinaria alpine and bamboo among others., During this forest walk, tourists are able to identify different plants used by the Batwa in curing different diseases and this is made possible with the help of your local guide.
Cave Trail
This is one of the most interesting trails visited by most of our visitors into Echuya forest. This mostly leads you to Ngarama cave, the one of its kind with a fascinating history as provided by a local guide. It mainly focuses on the daily life of the Batwa people on how they used to live in these caves for shelter and as well as how best they would carry out their day-to-day activities.
Birding trail
A visit to Echuya forest is worth it and trail is a great deal for bird lovers. Echuya forests boasts of many bird species as most clients on their trip either to or from Bwindi make it a point to stop at this forest. Echuya birds like Kivu ground thrush, Rwenzori turaco, blue headed sunbird and Archers Robin chat among others.
NOTE: As Corners of Earth Safari, we try as hard as possible to join hands together with well-wishers as we try to raise funds to help over 600 Batwa in their community as you put a smile on their faces. Money raised goes directly to different Batwa projects. Together we can make this possible and change the lives of these indigenous people.