About Us

Uncover Unparalleled Journeys: Elevating Communities, Conserving Nature

Ochre Travel curates exclusive, responsible tours to the enchanting landscapes of Rwanda and beyond. Delve into authentic cultural experiences, designed to inspire and crafted with care.

Our story

Set Sail on a Journey Rooted in Friendship and Fueled by a Shared Passion for Exploration

Founded by three friends whose love for travel is as deep as their devotion to their homeland, Ochre Travel emerges as a beacon of authentic and sustainable tourism at the foothills of the majestic Virunga Mountains.

Our story springs from a simple yet profound idea: sharing the pristine beauty and rich cultural mosaic of Rwanda with the world. As natives of this land, we blend our intimate knowledge and deep love for our country to design experiences that transcend conventional tourist routes. From the murmuring bamboo forests of the Virungas to the lively markets of Kigali, each trip with us is steeped in the spirit and heart of Rwanda.

Ochre Travel transcends the traditional tour operator role; we are narrators of stories and champions of conservation. We commit to crafting memorable journeys that delight and contribute meaningfully to wildlife preservation and community development. Our travel philosophy centers on forging connections—linking the traveler with the destination, bridging the past with the present, and harmonizing the dreams of our guests with the realities of Rwanda.

If you desire a safari that is both transformative and intimate, devised by those who know and cherish their country the most, your search ends here. With Ochre Travel, every adventure unfolds a new chapter in a broader narrative of exploration and camaraderie. Come with us, and let us reveal the Rwanda we know, the Rwanda we love.

Why choose Ochre Travel?

Choose Ochre Travel for a travel experience that goes beyond the destination. With us, you engage directly with the heart of the community, enjoy journeys crafted by experts, and benefit from the integrity of our services. Your journey helps us drive positive change, making every Ochre trip a step towards a more sustainable and inclusive world. Experience the extraordinary with Ochre Travel, whereyour journey contributes to a larger story.

Mission

At Ochre Travel, we are devoted to transcending ordinary travel experiences. Our mission is to meticulously craft unforgettable journeys that beckon you to return time and again. Driven by a profound commitment to ecotourism, we aim to deliver immersive safaris that prioritize your experience, uplift local communities, and bolster conservation efforts. We pledge that 20% of our profits are directly invested in diverse community projects, enhancing the lives of the local people and enriching your travel experience.

Vision

Our vision is to lead by example in the movement towards sustainable tourism. We aspire to inspire not only travelers but also our community, to embrace and support conservation efforts that will benefit generations to come. Join us on this transformative journey, where travel meets purpose, and together, we can make a lasting impact on the world.

Meet Our Team

Jimmy Innocent Bilima

Co-founder & Trip Experience Director

Jimmy Innocent Bilima

Co-founder & Trip Experience Director -

A motivated Tour Director who is a natural communicator and able to provide an entertaining and informative excursion to his customers. Jimmy has a flair for talking to groups of people along with a good memory for facts and figures. He has always been a fantastic storyteller with a good sense of humour . In his current role, He provides tourist with a unique, unforgettable experience that encourages them to fully participate with what is going on around them. Through his career he has learnt how to lead visitors through sites of historical and cultural interest. As a true professional and 18 years of experience, he always displays a true passion for what he does.

Jean Marie Kagaba Twambaze

Co-founder & Trip Experience Leader

Jean Marie Kagaba Twambaze

Co-founder & Trip Experience Leader -

Jean Marie is a Rwandan born and raised at foothill of Virungas, the home of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. His early career was in hospitality working with renowned lodges at both Volcanoes & Nyungwe National Parks in charge of guests experience. However his dream was to become a guide, in 2014 he started working as a safari guide, his passion for travel and adventure made him one of the best guides and trip leaders in Rwanda with more than 15 years experience in Hospitality & Tourism Industry. Jean Marie loves wildlife photography and drinking a good coffee.

Marie Claire Uwimana

Co-founder & Head of Operations

Marie Claire Uwimana

Co-founder & Head of Operations -

After years spent in USA , Marie Claire decided to return to her home country Rwanda to share the knowledge and experiences gained.
Hospitality runs in her veins, and that is how she decided to join the tourism industry. Her IT skills, and having worked with people of all ages makes her a great addition to the team. Her passion lies in delivering exceptional service, attention to details, and unparalleled expertise to make your journey truly unforgettable. Let her handle the details, so you can focus on making moments that matter..

Peace Mutoni

Tour Guide

Peace Mutoni

Tour Guide -


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Peace is an experienced tour guide with five years in the industry, adept at leading groups
through diverse destinations with enthusiasm and expertise. She is skilled in providing
engaging narratives, historical context, and practical information. She demonstrated
ability to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for travelers while prioritizing
their safety and satisfaction.

Olivier Mushana

Tour guide

Olivier Mushana

Tour guide -


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Olivier is an experienced tour guide with four years of experience at Akagera, Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks in Rwanda. He is knowledgeable about the parks’ trails, ensuring safe and engaging experiences for guests. Known for his friendly demeanor, Olivier makes visitors feel welcome and comfortable. He is patient, accommodating the diverse needs of guests, and actively participates in conservation efforts, educating visitors on wildlife and habitat preservation.

Fabrice Mutabazi

Tour guide

Fabrice Mutabazi

Tour guide -


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Fabrice was born in Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, and raised in Rwanda, where he was fortunate to complete his studies. In 2012, he began his career in tourism, which has been his daily work ever since. He has worked as a guide in many East African parks, primarily in Rwanda. He speak French, English, and Swahili, in addition to his native language, Kinyarwanda. Fabrice loves meeting people and providing them with quality experiences and lasting memories. Some of his hobbies include traveling and photography.

Testimonials

What Client's Say?

Our Partner Accomodations

Bisate Lodge

Ruzizi Tented Lodge

Singita Kataza House

Singita Lodge

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