I visit Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park so often that the security guards probably know my stride by now. Most days, I show up for a jog — my little ritual of easing into the morning as the city slowly wakes up.
But today, I broke the pattern. I swapped running shoes for a bicycle, just to experience Nyandungu at a faster heartbeat.
As usual, I cruised through all five sectors of the park, weaving through the green corridors that make Nyandungu feel like Kigali’s own version of a nature hug. Ten kilometers slipped by effortlessly. When I returned to the starting point, I still had 30 minutes — and even more energy — left in the tank. So I thought, why not? Another loop wouldn’t hurt.
And that’s how a calm morning warm-up turned into a solid 20-kilometer ride.
Somewhere along the second loop, I noticed I wasn’t riding alone. A woman was behind me, matching my pace with suspicious precision. When I slowed down, she slowed down. When I pushed harder, she did the same. It was as if we were silently agreeing to push one another — two strangers sharing an unspoken workout pact.
She drew motivation from me. And the funny thing? I drew motivation from her too. Her presence kept me from slacking off. Sometimes, all you need is a workout partner — even one you’ve never met — to turn a leisurely spin into an intense workout.
And honestly, there’s something magical about exercising in nature like that. Nyandungu isn’t just a park; it’s a sanctuary where nature rules supreme. Being able to escape into that sort of peace without leaving the city is pure gold. Gliding past thick vegetation, hear birds calling from the marshes, feel the breeze cooling your sweat, and still be minutes away from daily life — as I said, this is pure gold. Nature here doesn’t just refresh you — it resets you.
When we returned to the starting point, we sealed our quiet partnership with a cheerful high-five. I am talking about the woman who chased me throughout the second leg. That’s when I realized she wasn’t a total stranger.
I recognized her.
Not from cycling circles, but from TV — a former minister. She’s 55. And trust me, this woman can pedal. If you’re 25 and find it hard to cover 5 kilometers, consider this your gentle — but necessary — reminder to step up your game.