A Journey to the Heart of Coffee

The sun was barely peeking over the horizon as I found myself in the heart of Rwanda, ready to embark on a journey that promised to be as enlightening as it was invigorating. The Rwandan Coffee Experience was a chance to step back in time and immerse myself in the traditional art of coffee making. As someone who has spent years in the harsh, icy landscapes of the Arctic, the lush, green fields of Muhanga were a stark contrast, yet equally captivating.

Upon arrival at Azizi, the warmth of the local community was palpable. We were greeted with smiles and a steaming cup of coffee, a prelude to the day’s adventure. The drive to the village was a scenic one, with rolling hills and vibrant greenery painting a picture of tranquility. It was a far cry from the biting winds and endless white expanses I was accustomed to, yet it held its own kind of raw beauty.

The Dance of Coffee Making

The village welcomed us with open arms, and soon we were dressed in traditional attire, ready to dive into the world of coffee. The process began with picking the ripe cherries, a task that required a keen eye and a gentle touch. As we moved through the fields, the air was filled with laughter and song, a testament to the joy that this simple act of harvesting brought to the community.

The next steps were a flurry of activity - washing, pulping, and drying the cherries. Each stage was a dance, a rhythm that the villagers had perfected over generations. It was a humbling experience, to be part of something so deeply rooted in tradition. The harshness of the Arctic seemed a world away as I found myself lost in the moment, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the people around me.

A Cup of Connection

After a hearty lunch of local Rwandan cuisine, it was time to roast and grind the beans. The aroma of roasting coffee filled the air, a rich, earthy scent that was both comforting and invigorating. As we ground the beans using traditional tools, I couldn’t help but marvel at the simplicity and effectiveness of the process.

Finally, the moment arrived to brew our own cup of coffee. It was a culmination of the day’s efforts, a tangible connection to the land and the people who had welcomed us so warmly. As I sipped the rich, flavorful brew, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. This experience had not only deepened my appreciation for coffee but had also offered a glimpse into a way of life that was both foreign and familiar.

The day ended with heartfelt goodbyes and promises to return. As we made our way back to the city, I reflected on the journey. It was a reminder that, whether in the icy expanses of the Arctic or the lush fields of Rwanda, there is beauty to be found in the simplicity of life and the connections we make along the way.