The drive

This AM, John and Jessica went out Chimpanzee trekking in a smaller forest outside Nyungwe. From what they said, it was incredible. They only had to trek in about 30 min until they found them. Once there, the Chimanzees did not disappoint. Basically, they were very happy. But, also very tired after, as they woke up at 4 AM, and were on the road at 5 AM; this is the best time to see them, when they are feeding. Sounds like I am returning for this adventure!

Meanwhile, yours truly slept in (630 AM…) and enjoyed a chill AM. I blogged, I read, I just sat and thought.  It was exactly what I needed. You are probably wondering why I didn’t go trekking with them. It is all about logistics, as someone who was not super tired had to drive!

They arrived a little later than I anticipated, as there was a flat tire, some negotiations, and an interesting mechanic on the side of the road. In any event, we rolled out of our lodge around 1130, and started the long trek to Gisenyi.

My original idea was to drive from Nyungwe through the Forest to Butare, and then North. Turns out that was the long way. Luckily, the locals showed us the errors of our ways. We instead drove West to Lake Kivu, and then hugged the coastline for about 80 km until we reach Karongi (formerly Kibuye.) This part of the road is finished, and rivals some highways in the US. A lot of turns again, but gorgeous views. We then headed another 100 km or so East to Muhanga, a main crossing point for all points West and North of Kigali. Once there, we headed due North to Gisenyi, another 120 km or so. I drove the entire way, so they could sleep, and enjoy the country side. I was perfectly caffeinated, and actually enjoyed the drive. I got the hang of it.

The worst part was the last 30 min or so, driving in the dark. Here, though there are tarmacked roads, there are no street lights. And rush hour here is less of a car problem than a people and bicycle problem. To compound the problem, the lights on the SUV are pointed down, so I have to drive with the Brights on a lot. Needless to say, it made for a interesting drive. Once we reached our destination, though, it was worth it.

The Waterfront Resort lies on the shores of Lake Kivu. It is in Rubona, a smaller town where the other “beach resorts” are located, about 6 km South of Gisenyi town. It is idyllic in its presentation and setting. The service, on the other hand, is a different thing. We ordered dinner, and 20 min in, they told us they had no rice… the rest of the food came out an hour later. And their credit card machine was broken. And they did not have our reservation, and put us in different bungalows than I had ordered. But they have amazing rooms, and the coolest bathroom I have ever seen.

As far as above, I still get frustrated at the small things. I have gotten better at not trying to complain or fix every problem. I do get frustrated here in Rwanda when something as simple as knowing when you rice supply is running low to order more, or to communicate with your staff when a customer makes a booking online. I want to yell, and scream, but I hold it in. This time, I put in all in perspective: I am in Africa, with good friends, on vacation. I am breathing, walking, have a roof over my head, and have a belly full of food. That is the most important thing. Let it be, let it be…

As I was falling asleep, I heard the lapping of the waves on the shore, the occasional bullfrog and cricket, but mostly silence. This made for the best night sleep I have had in a while…

Until next time…

Love life, Find meaning, Be happy,

Craiger