Rwandan Tea: The Perfect Souvenir for a Taste of Rwanda
Looking for a meaningful, lightweight gift to bring home from Rwanda? Rwandan tea is a perfect choice. Grown in misty, high-altitude regions, Rwanda’s teas are flavorful, bold, and deeply rooted in the country’s culture. Whether you’re shopping for friends who drink tea daily or want to bring something truly local, this guide will help you pick the best brands, blends, and where to find them in Kigali.
Why Rwandan Tea?
Rwanda is one of the top tea producers in Africa. Thanks to its rich volcanic soil, high elevations, and regular rainfall, the country grows some of the finest black and green teas in the region, known for their smooth body, strong aroma, and clean finish.
Best Rwandan Tea Brands to Buy (for Gifting or Personal Use)
1. Rwanda Mountain Tea
Popular options: Orthodox Black Tea, Green Tea, Lemongrass Tea
Where to buy: Simba, Nakumatt, SupaCo supermarkets
Why it’s great: Balanced flavor, easy to pack, widely available
2. Pfunda Tea (Rubavu District)
Popular option: Pfunda Black CTC Tea
Where to buy: Simba Supermarket, local markets
Why it’s great: Authentic, flavorful, and not overly commercialized
3. Kabuye Tea
Popular option: Kabuye Black Tea (loose or bagged)
Where to buy: Most supermarkets, smaller shops
Why it’s great: Traditional, strong, and authentic
4. Sorwathe Tea (Kinihira, Rulindo District)
Popular options: Sorwathe Green Tea, Sorwathe Orthodox Black Tea, Sorwathe Herbal Blends
Where to buy: Simba, Nakumatt, Kigali gift shops, online via exporters
Why it’s great: Strong ethical reputation, clean flavor, internationally recognized
Tea Gift Tips for Travelers
- Choose sealed boxes or tins , easier for customs
- Go for orthodox or whole-leaf tea for higher quality
- Herbal blends (ginger, hibiscus, lemongrass) make great gifts
- Add a woven basket, wooden spoon, or local coaster for a Rwanda-themed tea set
Where to Shop for Tea in Kigali
- Simba Supermarket – Largest tea selection, including Pfunda and Sorisso
- Nakumatt / SupaCo / Sawa Citi – Good brand variety
- Kigali Airport Duty-Free – Convenient for last-minute gifts
- Spices of Rwanda – Boutique shop for curated, premium blends
- Local Markets – For bulk or budget-friendly options
Planning Your Visit? Here’s More Help:
Top 10 Destinations in Rwanda – Must-Visit Places Rwandan Handicrafts That Tell a Story (+ Where to Find Them) Essential Apps for Kigali Travel & Food Delivery in 2025Rwandan tea is more than a souvenir; it’s a sip of the country’s landscape, culture, and care for craftsmanship. Whether you go for a bold Pfunda black or a floral Sorisso blend, your friends back home are in for a treat.