Flights From Kigali: the Untold Realities, Risks, and Rewards Shaping Your Next Journey

Think you know flights from Kigali? Think again. In the global game of air travel, Kigali International Airport isn’t just a small stopover anymore—it’s a rising player with ambitions, quirks, and surprises that are rewriting the map for anyone who dares to fly in or out of Rwanda’s buzzing capital. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior, a budget backpacker, or a business traveler who’s had enough of tired connections and opaque fares, the story behind flights from Kigali is loaded with more twists than a mountain switchback. With new direct routes, shifting alliances, political currents, and a wave of AI-driven search tools like futureflights.ai, what you don’t know can cost you—literally and figuratively. This is your all-access, brutally honest guide to the 11 insider truths that will help you outsmart the system, avoid the traps, and turn every departure from Kigali into a power move. Buckle up.

Why flights from Kigali matter now more than ever

The rise of Kigali as Africa’s next aviation hub

Kigali International Airport (KGL) is no longer just an efficient gateway to Rwanda’s green hills—it’s fast becoming a key crossroads in African aviation. As of 2024, KGL connects to approximately 25 destinations in 20 countries, offering up to 19 direct departures a day. This is a massive leap compared to a decade ago when hub status seemed a distant fantasy. Major players like RwandAir, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, and KLM have entrenched themselves, betting on Kigali’s strategic location between Southern, East, and Central Africa.

Photo: Kigali International Airport at dusk, dramatic sky, modern terminal, travelers in motion with a RwandAir aircraft—showcasing flights from Kigali as a growing hub.

Table 1: Growth of Kigali International Airport routes and direct flights (Source: FlightConnections, 2024)

This rapid expansion is fueled by government investment, strategic airline partnerships (notably the RwandAir-Qatar Airways codeshare), and Rwanda’s clear ambition to challenge Addis Ababa and Nairobi for East African supremacy. The new Bugesera airport, on track for completion by 2028, is designed to double current capacity and cement Kigali’s role as a pan-African aviation power. For travelers, this shift means more options, better connectivity, and the kind of competitive pricing that only serious hub status can deliver.

How global events reshaped Kigali’s flight scene

The last five years have been a rollercoaster for air travel—and Kigali felt every twist. The COVID-19 pandemic hammered frequencies, paused international plans, and forced airlines into survival mode. Yet, unlike some regional airports that faded into obscurity, Kigali doubled down: when the world grounded, Rwanda used the downtime to negotiate new codeshares, invest in airport upgrades, and court global players.

As international travel rebounded, Kigali emerged ahead of the curve. Direct flights to Paris (launched June 2023) and soon-to-launch direct Doha service with Qatar Airways dramatically improved east-west links, offering alternatives to the Nairobi and Addis Ababa choke points. Recent data shows that as of early 2024, Kigali handles over a million passengers annually—up nearly 18% from pre-pandemic levels.

But it’s not all smooth skies. Last-minute route changes, fluctuating visa policies, and the ever-present specter of political tension in the region keep travelers—and airlines—on their toes.

“Kigali’s rise as a transit hub isn’t an accident. It’s the result of calculated policy, aggressive expansion, and a willingness to partner beyond traditional boundaries.” — Aviation analyst, AGBI, May 2024

Why the world is suddenly watching Kigali’s skies

Why does Kigali command so much attention now? It’s simple: the playbook for Africa’s aviation future is being rewritten. With direct flights connecting London, Paris, Dubai, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and an ever-expanding code-share web, Kigali is attracting a cross-section of travelers—from global CEOs to conservationists and digital nomads.

The city itself is a microcosm of Africa’s new narrative: modern yet rooted, efficient yet vibrant, a launchpad for both business and eco-adventure. Airlines and travel insiders are watching closely, not just for the bottom line, but for insights into what the next decade of African mobility will look like.

Photo: International travelers move through Kigali airport’s modern terminal, reflecting the new energy and ambitions behind flights from Kigali.

As AFRAA reported in 2023, RwandAir’s Paris route alone boosted Kigali’s European links by over 30%, with new business and tourism flows following in its wake. For many, Kigali is no longer a detour; it’s now the destination.

How to actually find the best flights from Kigali

Insider search strategies: Going beyond basic comparison sites

Let’s shatter a myth: relying solely on generic flight comparison sites is a recipe for missing out on both the best fares and the most interesting routes from Kigali. The real hacks start where mainstream platforms end.

• Leverage AI-driven tools: Platforms like futureflights.ai tap into advanced algorithms and real-time data, surfacing dynamic deals and hidden connections you won’t spot elsewhere.
• Monitor regional airline sites: RwandAir, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways often run flash sales or local promotions not always indexed by global aggregators.
• Don’t ignore codeshares: Qatar Airways and RwandAir have a deep partnership—searching both sites can reveal alternate pricing, bonus perks, or better layover options.
• Use flexible date searches: Timing can swing fares by 40% or more, especially on peak routes like Kigali–London or Kigali–Dubai.
• Follow event discounts: Major conferences (like MWC Kigali) sometimes unlock exclusive airline promo codes—saving up to 15% if you’re savvy and register early.

Photo: Kigali airport travelers using laptops for AI-powered flight search, highlighting how modern tools are changing how to book flights from Kigali.

Timing your booking: What the data really says

Timing isn’t everything—but it’s close. According to research from Skyscanner and FlightConnections, 2024, booking flights from Kigali is all about strategy:

Table 2: Optimal booking windows for top routes from Kigali (Source: Original analysis based on FlightConnections, 2024, Skyscanner Trends, 2024)

The sweet spot? Booking 6–10 weeks in advance for most intercontinental routes, and 2–3 weeks for regional hops. But beware: last-minute deals are rare and often more expensive due to Kigali’s growing demand.

The key takeaway: Plan ahead, use predictive fare tools, and watch for sudden promo releases linked to major events or seasonal demand shifts. This is where platforms like futureflights.ai shine, leveraging AI to spot the precise moment prices are likely to dip.

Hidden fees, surcharges, and the real cost of ‘cheap’

There’s a dark underbelly to so-called “cheap flights” from Kigali. Airlines here, like everywhere, have mastered the art of the upcharge—turning low fares into expensive journeys by layering on fees for baggage, seat selection, and even payment methods.

Many travelers have learned the hard way that not all fares are created equal:

• Baggage charges: Some regional carriers now charge $45+ for checked bags, even on medium-haul routes.
• Seat selection: Want an aisle or extra legroom? Expect a $10–$30 surcharge.
• Payment fees: Certain airlines add 2–3% if you pay by credit card, especially for international departures.
• Change/cancellation penalties: Flexibility is pricey; change fees can run $100+ even on relatively short flights.

The reality? That “bargain ticket” can balloon by 30–50% once the dust settles.

• Double-check baggage allowances before booking—even “full service” airlines have pared back.
• Read the fine print on fare classes, as some restrict even basic carry-ons.
• Price out the full trip with all extras before committing.

Avoiding the most common booking mistakes—real stories

Booking flights from Kigali can feel like a minefield—unless you know where the traps are buried.

1. Relying on outdated flight schedules: Route changes are frequent; always verify with the airline 48 hours before departure.
2. Assuming visas are a given: Some connecting airports (notably in the Middle East) require transit visas, even for brief layovers.
3. Forgetting local holidays: Rwandan public holidays and major conferences spike demand—book early or pay the price.
4. Ignoring promo codes: Many RwandAir and partner discounts are only accessible via event registrations or special email lists.
5. Overlooking connection times: Tight layovers through Nairobi or Addis Ababa can spell disaster due to regional delay patterns.

“Don’t trust your gut—trust the data. I once lost a $600 fare difference by assuming Sunday night would be cheapest. Hint: It wasn’t.” — Real traveler testimony, Kigali–London route, 2024

The Kigali flight experience: What no one tells you

Inside the airport: Security, comfort, and chaos

Kigali International is renowned for its efficiency—at least by African standards—but there are hidden realities behind the gleaming facades. Security is tight (sometimes oppressively so), and even business-class travelers face unpredictable wait times during peak hours.

Photo: Travelers navigating security checkpoint at Kigali airport, highlighting security and peak-hour challenges for those taking flights from Kigali.

• Security checks: Expect at least two screenings before your gate, and random luggage inspections aren’t uncommon.
• Wi-Fi: Free, but can be slow or intermittent—especially when the terminal is crowded.
• Seating: Ample, but fills up fast before major departures—arrive early if you want a spot near your gate.
• Food options: Limited after 10 p.m.; only basic snacks and drinks in late-night hours.
• Power outlets: Scarce and hotly contested—bring a battery pack.

Travelers appreciate the cleanliness and relative calm, but be prepared for sudden surges in traffic, especially after major events or during early morning “red-eye” departures.

Real stories from the departure gate

Every seasoned flyer from Kigali has a story—often a wild one. One business traveler recalls being serenaded by local musicians when a storm grounded planes for four hours. Another remembers watching VIP delegations sweep through security while ordinary passengers waited. And then there’s the common sight: families navigating multiple connections, juggling passports, and wrangling luggage through the bustling concourse.

“Kigali is unlike any other African airport I’ve been to: organized, yes, but also full of surprises. You never know when a protocol convoy or festival will change the mood in seconds.” — Frequent flier, as told to FlightGlobal, 2023

Kigali’s lounges: Perks, pitfalls, and who gets in

The lounges at KGL range from basic (the generic Pearl Lounge) to legitimately impressive (RwandAir’s Dream Lounge for business class and elite members). Here’s the unfiltered truth:

• Pearl Lounge: Open to Priority Pass, Diners Club, and some economy flyers for a fee. Decent snacks, spotty Wi-Fi, minimal privacy.
• Dream Lounge (RwandAir): Reserved for business class, elite frequent flyers, or travelers willing to pay up. Better food, private workspaces, showers, but can fill up fast.
• Access tips: Many premium credit cards now offer single-use lounge passes—check before you book.
• Pitfalls: Overcrowding during peak flights, especially regional connections. Sometimes, “hot” food runs out early.

Photo: Kigali Dream Lounge, business travelers enjoying modern comfort, illustrating lounge perks for flights from Kigali.

Airlines, routes, and realities: Your options from Kigali

Direct vs. connecting: The myth of the perfect route

Travelers love the idea of a direct flight—but from Kigali, the realities are nuanced. Yes, there are now direct flights to major cities like London, Paris, Dubai, and Johannesburg. But for many destinations, connecting is still the rule, not the exception.

Direct flight: Nonstop, typically quicker but often pricier. Connecting flight: At least one stop; can offer savings or unique routings, but adds risk of delay and lost luggage.

Table 3: Sample direct and connecting routes from Kigali (Source: FlightConnections, 2024)

The myth? That direct is always best. In reality, savvy travelers use connections to exploit price drops, earn extra frequent flyer miles, or score a more comfortable layover.

Who really serves Kigali? Airlines you didn’t expect

While RwandAir is the home team, the list of airlines serving Kigali is broader—and more eclectic—than many realize:

• Qatar Airways: Codeshare with RwandAir, expanding Middle East and Asian connections.
• KLM: Direct Amsterdam service, plugging Kigali into the SkyTeam network.
• Turkish Airlines: Regular Istanbul–Kigali service—an unexpected but useful Europe/Asia link.
• Kenya Airways: Nairobi shuttle, crucial for East African connections.
• Ethiopian Airlines: Key link for westward and southern destinations.
• Brussels Airlines: Direct European access, especially for NGO and diplomatic traffic.

And, increasingly, small regional carriers and charter operators are popping up—offering seasonal or event-driven service you might miss unless you dig deep.

• RwandAir
• Kenya Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• KLM
• Turkish Airlines
• Brussels Airlines
• Air Tanzania
• Uganda Airlines
• Precision Air

Many of these airlines rotate schedules or ramp up service during major Kigali events, so always check for pop-up routes or special charters.

Popular destinations and the rise of unconventional routes

Kigali’s most-booked destinations still include Nairobi, Johannesburg, Dubai, London, and Paris. But the real story is the rise of unconventional routes—flights to Dakar, Goma, Lusaka, or even smaller hubs like Mwanza—driven by demand from business, diaspora, and event travelers.

Table 4: Popular and unconventional destinations from Kigali (Source: Original analysis based on FlightConnections, 2024, MWC Kigali, 2024)

Photo: Travelers boarding a regional flight from Kigali, illustrating the rise of unconventional routes and regional connections.

Comparing Kigali to Nairobi and Entebbe: Is Rwanda winning?

How does Kigali actually stack up against regional heavyweights like Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta and Uganda’s Entebbe?

Table 5: Comparison of regional hubs (Source: Original analysis based on FlightConnections, 2024, Kenya Airports Authority, 2024)

Kigali’s edge? Reliability, modernity, and a relentless push for international standards. Nairobi still dominates for sheer volume and connections, but Kigali is closing the gap—particularly when it comes to efficiency, on-time performance, and innovative partnerships.

The price game: Understanding fares, hacks, and traps

Why prices from Kigali fluctuate—and how to beat the system

Fares from Kigali are notoriously volatile. The reasons: limited competition on some routes, sudden spikes linked to conferences or national holidays, and the domino effect of regional geopolitics (think: border closures, diplomatic spats).

But savvy travelers can outsmart the system:

• Monitor fare trends: Use AI-powered tools like futureflights.ai for predictive pricing.

• Book early for intercontinental routes: Data shows fares can jump 20% in the final month before departure.

• Leverage codeshares and split-ticketing: Sometimes booking through an airline partner reveals lower fares than a direct purchase.

• Don’t ignore alternative airports: In rare cases, combining Kigali with a bus or short-hop flight from Entebbe or Bujumbura can shave hundreds off the total fare.

• Airlines adjust prices dynamically based on demand, special events, and even weather forecasts.

• RwandAir and partners sometimes release “stealth” sales days before events—stay alert.

• Avoid booking on Fridays, when local demand spikes and fares are inflated.

Business vs. economy: More than just a seat

The gap between business and economy on flights from Kigali is more than just legroom—it’s a full-on experience divide.

Business class: Priority check-in, dedicated lounge access, two checked bags, gourmet meals, fast-track security. Economy class: Standard seating, limited baggage, pay-for-extras, basic meals, no lounge.

Table 6: Business vs. economy on Kigali routes (Source: Original analysis based on RwandAir, 2024, FlightConnections, 2024)

The real story behind last-minute deals

Forget the “last-minute miracle” myth. On flights from Kigali, late bookings almost always mean higher fares and fewer choices—especially for direct flights. The only exceptions are rare flash sales or event-driven promotions, which are unpredictable and usually snapped up by insiders plugged into airline mailing lists.

“Last-minute deals out of Kigali? I wouldn’t bet on it. Early birds get the savings—everyone else pays the penalty.” — Industry expert, as quoted in AFRAA, 2023

How futureflights.ai is changing the booking landscape

AI-powered platforms like futureflights.ai have shifted the power dynamic back to the traveler. Instead of sifting through dozens of tabs and unreliable fare predictions, users now get personalized, real-time flight recommendations and fare trend alerts tailored to their actual habits. This means fewer expensive mistakes, more hidden deals, and the confidence to book smarter—not harder.

Photo: Modern traveler using AI-powered flight search on a phone at Kigali airport, illustrating new tech-driven booking culture.

In short: The new era of booking flights from Kigali isn’t about who you know, but what you know—and how you use the right tools.

Culture, politics, and power: Forces shaping your flight

Rwanda’s aviation ambitions: More than just RwandAir

Rwanda’s government has made aviation a national priority. The partnership with Qatar Airways and the construction of the Bugesera mega-airport aren’t just infrastructure plays—they are strategic moves designed to give Rwanda a permanent seat at Africa’s aviation table.

These investments have already transformed the flying experience: more routes, better aircraft, a push for international standards in service and safety. But this is also about soft power—projecting Rwanda as a stable, connected, and business-friendly nation in a region otherwise known for volatility.

Photo: Construction of Bugesera airport outside Kigali, cranes and workers at sunrise, reflecting Rwanda’s aviation ambitions beyond RwandAir.

How politics and global events impact routes

Air travel from Kigali is anything but immune to politics. Visa rows, trade disputes, and even security alerts can reroute, delay, or suspend flights at short notice. For travelers, this means being hyper-aware of not just airline policies, but also the geopolitical landscape.

Table 7: How politics and global events shape flights from Kigali (Source: Original analysis based on AGBI, 2024, FlightGlobal, 2023)

The environmental cost of Kigali’s air boom

Rwanda’s aviation surge brings environmental questions that can’t be ignored:

• Increased CO2 emissions from more flights and larger aircraft.
• Pressure on local infrastructure and ecosystems, especially as new airports draw more traffic.
• Ongoing debates over sustainable fuels and offset programs—few airlines serving Kigali have robust “green” plans in place.

But on the flip side, the government touts a “green airport” plan for Bugesera, promising renewable energy systems, efficient grounds transport, and eco-friendly building materials. Whether these claims hold up under scrutiny remains to be seen, but the rhetoric is now baked into policy.

Travelers increasingly ask about carbon offsets and green fares, but, for now, sustainable options are limited.

Surviving—and thriving—on flights from Kigali

Packing, prepping, and staying sane on the ground

Getting ready for a flight from Kigali isn’t rocket science, but there are hard-learned tricks that can mean the difference between smooth sailing and total chaos.

1. Pack for all weather: Kigali’s climate is mild, but weather at your destination might not be. Always check seasonal patterns and pack layers.
2. Document check: Double-verify passport, visa, and transit requirements—region-specific rules change often.
3. Arrive early: For international departures, be at the airport at least 2.5 hours ahead. Security and check-in lines spike unpredictably.
4. Backup everything: Keep digital and paper copies of your tickets, ID, and insurance handy.
5. Charge devices: Outlets are scarce; a power bank is a lifesaver.

Preparation isn’t just about the journey—it’s about protecting yourself from the unexpected.

Before you even buy a ticket, map out your route, have a backup plan for missed connections, and keep an eye on both local and regional news for last-minute disruptions.

Navigating delays, cancellations, and curveballs

No matter how well you plan, things can—and do—go sideways.

• Build buffer time into connections; regional flights, especially via Nairobi or Addis, are prone to delay.
• Download airline apps for push notifications—SMS or email alerts can lag behind.
• Know your passenger rights; RwandAir, for example, has published compensation policies for delays over three hours, but not all airlines are as transparent.
• Stay calm: flight disruptions can sometimes unlock upgrade offers or rebooking perks if you’re proactive at the counter.

“The best travelers aren’t lucky—they’re relentless about preparation. When my flight to London was cancelled, I was rebooked and out in two hours, while others waited overnight.” — Kigali-based travel consultant, 2023

What to do with a long layover in Kigali

Stuck in Kigali for a few hours? You could do worse. The city is safe, close-by, and packed with culture.

• Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for essential history and reflection.
• Grab Rwandan coffee at Question Coffee, a short ride from the airport.
• Explore Kimironko Market for local crafts and food.
• Take a guided motorbike (moto) tour—available from most hotels.
• Chill with a view at the rooftop bars near the convention center.

Photo: Tourists enjoying panoramic Kigali city view during layover, green hills and urban scenery—perfect escape for those with a long layover from flights out of Kigali.

Beyond the airport: Real-world impact of Kigali’s flights

Who benefits—and who gets left behind?

Kigali’s air boom is a double-edged sword. The winners: business travelers, expats, the tourism sector, and Rwanda’s growing digital economy. The losers: some local communities facing displacement from airport expansion, and travelers priced out by surging demand during peak seasons.

“Air connectivity is transforming Kigali into a regional powerhouse—but we must ensure the benefits go beyond the elite.” — NGO statement, Rwanda Today, 2023

How Kigali’s flight scene is changing lives and business

Direct flights have had an outsized impact on Rwanda’s business and social landscape. According to figures from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, inbound international business travel grew 22% in 2023, and foreign direct investment (FDI) linked to improved air links has doubled since 2019.

Table 8: Socio-economic impact of improved flights from Kigali (Source: Original analysis based on Rwanda CAA, 2024 and World Bank, 2024)

Beyond numbers, the new routes mean faster family reunions, better medical access for rural patients, and easier academic exchanges.

If you’re stranded: Kigali’s hidden gems

Don’t panic if you’re stuck. Kigali is one of Africa’s safest, cleanest capitals.

• Savor Rwandan cuisine at the legendary Republika Lounge.
• Discover local art at Inema Arts Center.
• Hike Mount Kigali for panoramic city and countryside views.
• Unwind in Nyandungu Eco Park—an urban oasis.
• Book a last-minute city tour through a reputable agency for immersive local experiences.

Photo: Solo traveler at Inema Arts Center, Kigali, making the most of an unexpected layover from flights out of Kigali.

The future of flights from Kigali: Trends, tech, and turbulence ahead

Will Kigali become Africa’s Frankfurt or a cautionary tale?

Kigali’s aviation story is at a crossroads. The city has ambition, government support, and a rising profile. But rapid growth brings risks: overcapacity, environmental strain, and the challenge of balancing elite progress with broad-based benefit. The next chapter will be written by how Rwanda navigates these contradictions.

“What matters is not just how many planes fly into Kigali, but how many lives those flights lift up.” — Editorial, AGBI, May 2024

Tech disruption: How AI, LLMs, and futureflights.ai will shape your journey

Technology is already rewriting the playbook. AI-powered search engines like futureflights.ai offer:

1. Personalized, real-time fare predictions based on your habits—not generic averages.
2. Seamless multi-leg itinerary planning, connecting obscure routes traditional sites miss.
3. Automated alerts for flash sales, delays, or disruptions—keeping travelers ahead of the curve.

Photo: Young professional using AI-driven flight search app at Kigali airport, symbolizing the tech disruption in modern air travel from Kigali.

The upshot: Travelers who embrace new tech stand to save time, money, and stress—while discovering destinations they might never have otherwise considered.

What you must know before your next booking—2025 and beyond

• Always verify routes and fares with both airline and AI-driven platforms.
• Plan for shifting policies: visa and security rules change quickly in this region.
• Never assume the cheapest fare is the best—hidden costs lurk everywhere.
• Stay flexible: new routes, cancellations, and pop-up deals happen with little warning.

The message? Stay informed, stay nimble, and put technology to work for you.

Supplementary: Myths, mistakes, and must-knows

Debunking the top 7 myths about flights from Kigali

• Myth 1: “Direct flights are always cheaper.” In reality, connections often unlock better deals—sometimes by hundreds of dollars.
• Myth 2: “Kigali is just a minor stopover.” The airport now serves as a regional hub for over 25 destinations.
• Myth 3: “Last-minute fares are the lowest.” Last-minute deals are rare; most fares climb as departure nears.
• Myth 4: “All airlines offer the same baggage allowance.” Each carrier has its own (often shrinking) limits—always double-check.
• Myth 5: “You don’t need to worry about visas for layovers.” Some transit points require costly, pre-arranged visas.
• Myth 6: “Airport lounges are only for business class.” Many now admit economy travelers for a fee or via credit card perks.
• Myth 7: “Flight search engines always have the lowest price.” Local airline sites and AI-powered platforms frequently beat the big aggregators.

Photo: Travelers at Kigali airport info desk, comparing fare myths to real facts about flights from Kigali.

Checklist: Your step-by-step guide to stress-free booking

1. Confirm your destination’s visa and transit rules.
2. Use at least two platforms (including futureflights.ai) to compare fares and routes.
3. Double-check baggage and change policies for your fare class.
4. Book 6–10 weeks in advance for major routes, 2–3 for regional.
5. Sign up for airline and event promo codes.
6. Monitor for flash sales, especially before big Kigali events.
7. Set calendar reminders for check-in and document prep.
8. Arrive at Kigali airport at least 2.5 hours before departure.

By following this sequence, you minimize surprises and maximize your travel options.

Stress-free travel starts with preparation; don’t leave it to chance, especially with so much at stake.

Glossary: Essential terms you’ll encounter

Codeshare
: An agreement where airlines share routes—buying a ticket on one airline but flying on another. Common between RwandAir and Qatar Airways, for example.

Fare class
: The specific ticket type you buy, dictating baggage, changeability, and perks. Economy Light, Business Flex, etc.

Layover
: An intermediate stop between your departure and final destination. Critical to check for visa and time requirements.

Promo code
: Special discount codes often tied to events, email signups, or partner offers. Can save 10–20% if used correctly.

Frequent flyer program
: Loyalty schemes run by airlines; points accrued can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or perks.

Understanding this vocabulary gives you a strategic edge—don’t get caught out by airline jargon or small print.

Flights from Kigali aren’t just a means of getting from A to B—they’re a microcosm of a changing continent, a test of your travel savvy, and, with these insider truths, an opportunity to take control of your journey like never before.