HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style
    Travel >> Holiday Travel >  >> Travel Notes

Kwita Izina: Rwanda's Global Gorilla Naming Ceremony

September 24 is International Gorilla Day. It is also the day that Rwanda celebrates Kwita Izina, the country’s annual gorilla naming ceremony.

The ceremony was first held in 2005. It is based on a centuries-old tradition where Rwandans name their children in the presence of family and friends.

Kwita Izina has been a huge global success. Visitors come from all over the world to take part in the week-long celebration. And Rwandans feel that the gorillas are ‘part of the family’.

Kwita Izina: Rwanda s Global Gorilla Naming Ceremony

The stage used for the naming ceremony (Shutterstock)

The ceremony is usually held on a huge silverback-shaped stage in Volcanoes National Park. Special guests are assigned a baby gorilla and given a list of proposed names. A name is then chosen according to the baby’s behaviour and character traits.

This year 24 baby gorillas will be named, using names chosen by trackers, rangers and other frontline conservationists. Because of continuing COVID restriction, the ceremony will be held virtually.

Over the last 16 years, 328 mountain gorillas have been named.

Even in the time of COVID, Kwita Izina continues to play a crucial role in the conservation of the environment, encouraging Rwandans to preserve their natural and cultural heritage.

Read more:

Face-to-face with Rwanda's mountain gorillas

5 reasons to visit Rwanda


Travel Notes
  • 5 Authentic Western Experiences in Montana: Guest Ranches, Horseback Adventures & More

    Surrounded by Glacier National Park to the north and Yellowstone National Park to the south, Montana boasts some of the worlds most stunning landscapes. Towering mountains contrast beautifully with rustic towns and ranches on the plains below, creating an authentic frontier atmosphere. From horseback riding to immersive ranch stays, Montana offers unparalleled western experiences that evoke the spirit of explorers and pioneers.   Stay at a Guest Ranch For an authentic Montana immersion, bo

  • 10 Exceptional Luxury Boutique Hotel Escapes Worldwide – Save Up to 40% Off

    As seasoned travelers, my partner Scott and I increasingly savor lifes finer luxuries, particularly on vacation. While we thrive on adventure, nothing beats the joy of well-deserved indulgence. Value-conscious luxury is our mantra. Recently, we handpicked standout small luxury hotels from Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This week, were highlighting ten more remarkable properties. Secure prepaid rates with up to 40% savings – offer available for a limited time. What sets boutique hotels apart i

  • Discover 11 Must-See Roadside Attractions in New York State

    Looking for a safe and fun New York road trip close to home? Check out these great New York State roadside attractions! With a variety of offbeat destinations, ranging from the artistic to the curious, from goofy to downright mysterious, there’s something to delight everyone, and the entire family will enjoy getting out of the house to seek out these eye-opening one-of-a-kind treasures only found here in New York. Remember to social di