Musanze, the largest city in northern Rwanda, has been listed by TIME as one of the top destinations to visit in the world. The announcement was made in TIME'S collection of World's Greatest Places 2023, which features 50 extraordinary destinations around the globe that offer unique experiences to travelers. ALSO READ: Rwanda among top 10 African countries in global soft power ranking TIME is an American news magazine based in New York City, it curates the list with an eye toward places offering new and exciting experiences so that they can be on travelers’ radars over the next 12 months. The selection of Musanze in the list is a testament to the district's impressive growth in recent years, particularly in the area of tourism. Musanze, which is known for its stunning landscape and rich biodiversity, has become a popular destination among nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From gorilla trekking in the nearby Volcanoes National Park to hiking the scenic trails of the Virunga Mountains, Musanze offers a range of outdoor activities that cater to different interests. ALSO READ: Musanze’s old buildings to get major face-lift In the article published by TIME, it was noted that Musanze's success in sustainable tourism played a significant role in its selection. The district has prioritized sustainable practices in the tourism industry, such as promoting eco-friendly accommodations and investing in community-based tourism initiatives. These efforts have not only contributed to the preservation of Musanze's natural beauty but also helped support the local economy. One of the highlights of Musanze that caught global attention and TIME's editorial team is ‘The opening of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and Gorilla Doctors campus,’ Both of which invest in the conservation and research of endangered mountain gorillas. ALSO READ: Inside the Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Campus in Musanze The selection process involved nominations from editors and correspondents and industry experts who evaluated each location based on factors such as quality, authenticity, sustainability, innovation, and influence. Musanze's selection as one of the World's Greatest Places 2023 is a significant achievement that highlights the district's commitment to sustainable tourism and its unique offerings to travelers. According to TIME, with its stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and sustainable practices, Musanze is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring. ALSO READ: Nature-based tourism key in boosting Rwanda’s economy – World Bank Other destinations on the Africa continent featured on the list include, the historic sites of Giza and Saqqara in Egypt, offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian civilization. The Freetown Peninsula in Sierra Leone boasts pristine beaches and vibrant culture, while Dakar in Senegal offers a mix of history, art, and cuisine. Rabat in Morocco features a blend of traditional and modern architecture, and Loango National Park in Gabon offers a unique wildlife experience. Lastly, the Chyulu Hills in Kenya offers breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking and safari. In July 2022, TIME named Rwanda among the world’s top 50 destinations for the year 2022. By them, Kigali and Nairobi were the magazine’s urban picks from Africa, while South Africa's Franschhoek, Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park and Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park were also recommended. In 2021, Forbes’ Bucket List Travel ranked Rwanda the seventh best travel destinations.
