Rwanda takes center stage at the prestigious Vakantiebeurs Tourism Fair in Utrecht, Netherlands, showcasing its diverse and captivating tourist offerings. The event, taking place from January 10 to 14, 2024, is a significant platform for Rwanda to connect with the BeNeLux market, comprising Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
The Vakantiebeurs Tourism Fair is renowned as a premier travel fair, drawing exhibitors from over 100 countries. This year, Rwanda aims to leverage the event to build on the positive momentum of the tourism sector’s recovery, particularly in the Netherlands. After the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, 2023 has emerged as an important year, witnessing a remarkable 75.3% recovery rate in tourist numbers from the Netherlands to Rwanda.
Ariella Kageruka, the Head of Tourism and Conservation at Rwanda Development Board, expressed excitement about the opportunity to showcase Rwanda’s attractions at Vakantiebeurs. She emphasized the importance of the BeNeLux market, highlighting it as a strategic source for leisure tourism.
The Vakantiebeurs Tourism Fair has a proven track record, with the previous edition attracting over 65,000 visitors throughout the 5-day event. With an estimated 65% of attendees expected to return for the 2024 edition, this provides a substantial audience for Rwanda to present its unique offerings.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, emphasized the country’s increasing popularity among adventure enthusiasts worldwide. He highlighted the diverse experiences awaiting tourists in Rwanda, such as kayaking on Lake Kivu or cycling the Congo Nile Trail. With the Netherlands being a nation where each person owns an average of 1.4 bikes, the ambassador sees this as an excellent opportunity to promote Rwanda’s cycling attractions.
In addition to the presence of Visit Rwanda at the fair, various representatives from notable entities like Wanderlux Safaris, Blue Monkey Tours, Palast Tours & Travels, and RwandAir will participate in side events and networking sessions. These engagements are designed to foster connections with travel agents, tour operators, and potential travelers within the BeNeLux market.
Visit Rwanda, the tourism campaign of the Rwanda Development Board, aims not only to promote tourism but also to contribute to Rwanda’s economic development by facilitating private sector growth. Working in collaboration with conservation and tourism partners, Visit Rwanda strives to create unique tourist experiences while empowering local communities and supporting the conservation of natural ecosystems.
For more information on Visit Rwanda, visit Visit Rwanda or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
