Rwanda’s numerous attractions, including national parks like the Volcanoes National Park and Akegera National Park among other protected areas, have made it a popular travel destination for many of us. Rwanda’s tourism industry also revolves around Lake Kivu and the Genocide Memorial Centre. One of the largest marketplaces in Kigali, Kimironko Market is a must-visit for anyone going on a self-drive safari in Rwanda. There, you can find a wide selection of fresh fruits. On a self-drive safari excursion, you may also purchase these fruits from roadside vendors beside highways. Here are a few Fresh Fruits on your Rwandan Self drive trip.
Many visitors might be unaware that fresh fruits are available all year round. African fruits have a distinct flavour from European fruits, even though fruit flavours are rarely emphasised. Rwanda is among the African nations that have very delicious fruits. The nation’s exports and domestic consumption are heavily reliant on agriculture.
According to the Rwanda Development Board, the nation’s horticultural exports climbed from $5 million in 2005 to $25 million in 2018. This growth is attributed to the nation’s competitive base, which is built on its comparative advantages—such as fertile soils, an abundance of water resources, a labour pool, and favourable climate conditions that allow for the production of competitive and high-quality fruits that are sold in both domestic and foreign markets.
Bananas
The year-round availability of bananas makes them a staple fruit in Rwanda. Bananas are grown by an estimated 80% of smallholders and are crucial to the food security of households. In Rwanda, bananas are the largest crop in terms of hectares under cultivation all varieties together. Bananas should be one fruit you sample on your self-drive safari in Rwanda.
Passion fruits
Seasons for passion fruits are April through August and October through December. In flatland areas like the districts of Rwamagana, Nyagatare, Rusizi, Nyamagabe, and Gasabo, they are abundantly grown. In adjacent countries like Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, passion fruits are highly sought-after and contribute to 33% and 28% of monthly exports, respectively.
Although they are best served in juice form, passion fruits can also be eaten raw or blended into a drink. Agashya is a concentrate made from passion fruit that you can always bring home with you from your trip in Rwanda.
Strawberries
These are commonly planted in Musanze’s milder regions, where they are typically interplanted with citrus fruits like tangerines and oranges. Supermarkets and markets carry fresh strawberries. Should you enjoy mocktails, you can request one from your Rwandan guesthouse.
Mangoes
All of Rwanda’s provinces grow mangoes, however the Eastern province is better adapted to produce them. Mangoes grow well in a variety of soil types and are suited to both tropical and subtropical climates. The ideal growing conditions for them are places with temperatures between 20 and 26 °C.
Mangos come in a variety of kinds to try, including Zillate, Alfonso, Dodo, Apple, Kent, and Sensation. You can also get fresh mangoes from roadside vendors or local stores. In general, they are accessible from March to October. For fresh fruit, it is always advised to stick to markets.
Pineapples
All of Rwanda’s provinces cultivate pineapples extensively, and they are accessible year-round. Street vendors and the neighbourhood market are convenient places to purchase them.
Watermelons
From June through September, when the dry season lasts, these are accessible. An ideal moment to quench your thirst when driving across Rwanda. You can also savour papayas, jackfruit, avocados, and citrus fruits including tangerines, oranges, and lemons. Local markets, fruit stands, and roadside kiosks carry all of these. Fresh fruits are a significant feature of a self-drive safari in Rwanda, but sadly, many visitors neglect to visit the local markets, which are the greatest place to find them. Contact us to know more about Fresh Fruits on your Rwandan Self drive trip.
