Rwanda — a journey through the land of a thousand hills
ABOUT HILLSOME TRAILS
Authentic travel. Purposeful journeys.
Hillsome Trails was founded by a passionate couple with over 15 years of hands-on experience in Rwanda’s travel and tourism industry. Having worked as guides, tour operators, and consultants, they combined their deep destination knowledge with a shared love for adventure to create a tour company rooted in authenticity, quality, and purpose.
We specialize in authentic, high-quality, safe, and comfortable Rwanda travel experiences, carefully designed to immerse travelers in the country’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture without compromising comfort or safety. Every journey is thoughtfully planned and professionally guided to ensure seamless, meaningful, and memorable experiences.
Beyond travel, Hillsome Trails is driven by a strong commitment to conservation, community empowerment, and inclusivity. We proudly offer sign-language guided tours for travelers who are hard of hearing or speech-impaired, and we actively create opportunities for people with disabilities by supporting and promoting local artisans. We also work closely with vulnerable groups, including teenage mothers and children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
At Hillsome Trails, every trip goes beyond sightseeing. Ten percent (10%) of our revenue is reinvested into community development initiatives, ensuring that tourism creates lasting positive impact. When you travel with us, you’re not just discovering Rwanda you’re contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Get to know the guides who help bring Rwanda’s wildlife, culture and natural heritage to life.
\n
Our guides can assist you in both English and French. Please tell us your preferred language when enquiring so we can confirm guide availability for your dates.
Professional and licensed safari guide
Jean Claude RUTAYISIRE
Jean Claude is a seasoned wildlife guide and tourism entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in Rwanda’s tourism sector. He is experienced in offering personalized safaris, cultural tours, and inclusive travel experiences across Rwanda. With a strong background in guiding, birdwatching, and tour operations, Jean Claude has offered different safari experiences; He continues to guide tours and builds meaningful partnerships with communities and conservation stakeholders to promote responsible, high-quality tourism.
Professional and licensed Safari guide
Joana UMWIZA
Umwiza is a passionate tour guide with over 8 years of experience in Rwanda’s tourism sector. With a strong background in guiding, nature interpretation, community development, and public administration, helps her to give unforgettable travel experiences. Her deep knowledge of Rwanda’s wildlife, culture, and natural heritage combined with excellent communication and organizational skills makes her a trusted guide for both local and international travelers. Umwiza is committed to promoting sustainable tourism that empowers communities and protects the environment.
Professional and licensed safari guide
Jovia MURUNGI
Jovia is an experienced freelance driver guide with a strong background in wildlife tourism and guest management. With years of experience working with top tour operators and a deep passion for nature, she offers travelers well-organized, insightful, and memorable adventures across Rwanda. She combines strong guiding skills, excellent communication, and professionalism in every tour especially when managing group itineraries and sharing rich knowledge of Rwanda’s wildlife and culture. Jovia holds certifications in field guiding, bird watching, herpetology, and first aid, and is known for her energy, flexibility, and warm personality on the road.
Professional and licensed Safari Guide
Fabrice MUTABAZI
With over 14 years of guiding experience across East Africa, Mutabazi Fabrice is a seasoned safari guide specializing in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. He expertly connects with international travelers while sharing his deep knowledge of wildlife, culture, and conservation. Fabrice specializes in safari adventures, primate trekking (gorillas and chimpanzees), and cultural tours. Known for his professionalism, storytelling ability, and calm presence in the field, he has guided everyone from individual travelers to NGOs and documentary teams.
Professional and licensed safari guide
Jean Baptist NTIRENGANYA
Baptiste is a seasoned tour guide with over 7 years of experience leading unforgettable journeys across Rwanda and Uganda. Passionate about showcasing the region’s rich heritage, Baptiste specializes in wildlife safaris, historical and cultural tours, and birdwatching experiences. His deep knowledge of local ecosystems, combined with warm hospitality and professional service, has made him a trusted guide for visitors seeking authentic and enriching travel. Whether you’re exploring national parks, discovering ancient traditions, or spotting rare bird species, Baptiste ensures a safe, informative, and memorable adventure.
Licensed Safari Guide & Office clerk
Yvette MUKAMANZI
Yvette is a dedicated tourism professional with a strong background in guiding, customer service, and office support. With experience in both local and international settings, including Belgium and Rwanda, she brings exceptional communication, organizational, and people skills to Hillsome Trails. Yvette excels at creating safe, engaging, and informative travel experiences, and her calm, friendly approach makes her a trusted guide for guests from all backgrounds. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Travel and Tourism Management, is certified by the Rwanda Safari Guides Association, and continues to deepen her expertise through ongoing training in wildlife and service excellence.
Sign Language Guide
Muhozi Keneth
Keneth is a sign language guide with a strong academic background in tourism and inclusive guiding. With practical experience supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing travellers, he bridges communication gaps through sign language, ensuring everyone can enjoy accessible and enriching travel experiences. His passion for wildlife, nature interpretation and cultural storytelling makes him an exceptional guide for all visitors, especially those with specific needs. Keneth is committed to inclusive tourism, connecting people with nature, heritage and adventure without barriers.
Licensed Safari Guide
Marius Rukundo
Marius is a skilled and passionate safari guide experienced in leading unforgettable tours across Rwanda, with a deep knowledge of Rwanda’s wildlife, culture, and scenic landscapes. Marius is known for his reliability, warm hospitality, and commitment to delivering safe and personalized travel experiences. He is trained in first aid, certified by the Rwanda Red Cross, guiding and nature interpretation and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering. A proud member of the Rwanda Safari Guides Association (RSGA), Marius continues to enhance his guiding expertise through regular professional training to be able to make every trip memorable.
Professional and licensed safari guide
Ilice UMUHOZA
Ilice is a professional and licensed safari guide with Hillsome Trails. Contact our team to learn more about her guiding experience and arrange your Rwanda journey.
TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE
Explore Rwanda with purpose, comfort, and heart.
Every journey goes beyond sightseeing. Travel with Hillsome Trails and help contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future for Rwanda.
