I ditched the usual tarmac route via Kabarondo and dove straight into an off-road adventure from Rwinkwavu to Gahini. It was an exhilarating ride. At some point, I slowed down as herds of cows leisurely crossed the way, unbothered by my presence.
A quick water break in Kageyo gave me a moment to catch my breath and take in the scenery — the rolling hills and the hum of rural life. From there, I continued toward Gahini via Rukara, exploring parts of the Eastern Province most travelers never see.
The off-road trail offered more than just a ride; it was a journey through everyday life. Women carrying baskets on their heads, children waving as I passed, and echoes of mooing cows created a rhythm unique to this part of Rwanda. Each turn of the trail revealed another glimpse of the countryside — rural settlements, livestock, and fields dotted with patches of bright green crops swaying in the breeze.
By the time I reached Gahini, I felt like I had traveled through a hidden layer of Kayonza, the untamed one. This ride reminded me that sometimes the slow, winding paths tell the richest stories — of community, of labor, of life lived intimately with the land. It was a reminder that adventure is not just about speed or distance, but about connection: to the people, the land, and the quiet moments that make a journey unforgettable.