I am on a mission to climb all five volcanoes straddling Rwanda's northwestern border. The five volcanoes challenge was flagged off ten days ago when I climbed Bisoke. In the next couple of days, I will lace up my hiking boots again and toil my way to the summit of Gahinga. Gahinga will be followed by Sabyinyo, Karisimbi and Muhabura, in that order.
I am writing this piece from the splendid garden of Isange Paradise Resort in Musanze. Earlier today, I had a vigorous run on the hills that embellish the surface of Rwanda's northern province. I am currently ramping up preparations for the upcoming strenuous hikes.
Apart from improving my fitness level, I am acclimatizing myself to low-density air. Without proper acclimatization, climbers risk suffering a high-altitude sickness that drains energy like an illicit brew-induced hangover.
I need to take a good care of myself as my next big hiking day approaches. A balanced combination of exercise, diet, and recovery is key in making the rest of the Virunga expedition successful. Isange Paradise Resort offers the right environment for a tourist partaking in such physically taxing escapades.
I am currently finalizing the booklet highlighting my experiences climbing Bisoke. Each hike will lead to the publication serving as a detailed account of the tourist on the ground. Beeing in a serene environment enables me to focus on converting my cherished Bisoke memories into a book.
Once published, the five booklets will be added to the growing collection of materials used in the Turning Pages initiative. The rationale behind the said initiative is to cultivate the culture of reading while promoting tourism.
Under the umbrella of Afrika Nzuri Publishers, I have organized 93 book club sessions in Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Togo, and Ghana. In partnership with different stakeholders in the tourism industry, Afrika Nzuri has given away 534 books to the participants.