Kigali in Rwanda continues to be an inspiration not just in Africa but all over the world. The horror of the Rwanda Genocide in 1994 did not stop Kigali from flourishing; it’s so amazing to know that despite the tragic event, love continues to spread and prevail. As proof, plenty of memorials sprung up, more art centers were established to inspire locals to express their creativity and love, and stronger communities were built. Kigali will capture your heart in many ways. Art enthusiasts can visit Inema Arts Center or Ivuka Art Studio. Try not to cry when you hear genocide stories at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum.
On the other side, an incredible journey awaits you at the Gorilla Safari and Nyungwe National Park; these places will allow you to have an up-close encounter with mountain gorillas (critically endangered species) and chimpanzees. There’s more on the list. Keep on reading and discover the best things to do in Kigali, Rwanda.
1. Explore the wonderful world of mountain gorillas on a gorilla safari (from USD 7.0)
You’ll agree that no Kigali tour would be completed without seeing the endangered mountain gorillas. Grab the opportunity to observe the lovely gorillas on their last natural habitats while the tour guide sheds some light on the protected species. The tour also allows you to explore Volcanoes National Park’s magnificent landscape and have the chance to relax in a pleasant guest house. This tour includes everything you need to have a wonderful experience, from entrance fees to accommodation and even meals.
3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Duration: 3 days
2. Check out the exhibits at Rwanda Art Museum
For more fan-artistic adventure, head to Rwanda Art Museum! You’ll learn everything you need to know about Rwandan history, life stories of former presidents, and more. This museum was the home of two former presidents of Rwanda. The presidential palace has turned into a gorgeous museum, which features exhibits, displays, and even a few remains from a famous plane crash. As you walk inside the museum, a nice tour guide will assist you and share some interesting stories and information about what’s all inside the museum.
Rwanda Art Museum
Address: KK 106 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
3. Enjoy the chimpanzee trekking safari (from USD 1.0)
Experience the best offers of Kigali by joining this awesome two-day chimpanzee trekking safari. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to admire and explore Nyungwe National Park and get panoramic views of Lake Kivu. Seize the opportunity to learn Ethnography (systematic study of culture and people) at the Ethnographic Museum. Enjoy and take some photos while strolling the Nyungwe Forest. At last, capture the moments as you’ll have the chance to observe chimpanzees in their habitat.
2 Days Rwanda Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Duration: 2 days
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4. Honor the fallen soldiers at the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
Another solemn place that should not be missed in Kigali is the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial. This place is a tribute to those 10 fallen Belgian soldiers who fulfilled their duties by protecting Rwanda’s Prime Minister during the Tutsi Genocide in 1994. This tragedy reminds us to love more and promote peace all over the world. And, of course, the bravery of these Belgian peacekeepers will always be remembered.
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
Address: KN 3 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)
5. Buy some colorful garments at Kimironko Market
In a nice Remera neighborhood, you will find Kimironko Market which offers plenty of treasures. Everything you are looking for is here, from fresh local produce to assorted goods, from unique things to clothing and more. But what makes this market attract more visitors is the tailoring and dressmaking section. This part of the market is surrounded by colorful and unique designs of clothes and fabrics. It’s really odd how the sewing of needles is music to the ears. If you happen to be here, buying some unique Rwandan clothing with a headband and scrunchie is a must.
Kimironko Market
Address: KG 194 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 8am - 7:55pm (daily)
6. Support women empowering at Nyamirambo Women's Center
If you want to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s way of life, then there’s no better way than to visit and support Nyamirambo Women’s Center. This Rwandan non-profit-organization (NGO) was started in 2007 by 18 wonderful Rwandese women. The project was created to protect the rights of all women against violence, discrimination, and gender inequality. Moreover, it’s mission is to give a chance to the growth and independence of women through education and vocational training. In 2013, a new project emerged called “Umutima” (heart), which trains and employs women to make a selection of home decors, children’s clothing, and women’s accessories.
Nyamirambo Women's Center
Address: KN 7 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Nyamirambo Women’s Center
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily) (closed on Sun)
7. Try your luck at Casino Kigali
Owned and operated by “Casino Games Rwanda Ltd” and Solna Leisure Holdings Ltd (international management and consulting company), Casino Kigali is the place to try your luck. You probably know what is waiting for you here; you can win or lose. Whatever it is, an exciting game is always guaranteed. All games are aligned with International Standards, from Blackjack to Casino Poker Games to American Roulette and over 100 different games from slot stations. The sophisticated casino has 50 trained staff. It features over 30 slot machines and 2 to 8 Station Alfa Street Electronic Roulette Machines. All are in great condition.
Casino Kigali
Address: Lemigo Hotel, KG 622 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Casino Kigali
Opening hours: 2pm - 3am (daily)
8. Find peace at Regina Pacis Catholic Church
Regina Pacis, Kigali, Rwanda
Posted by St. Mark's Lutheran Church on Friday, 18 November 2016
Whether you are looking for a serene place to relax, spiritual meditation, or just want to experience love, Regina Pacis Catholic Church welcomes you with open arms. Looking outside, the church is incredibly beautiful which offers great views of the city. As you step inside, the whole place is immaculate. In every corner, you cannot see any dirt and it’s nice to know that the church is well organized. Moreover, they celebrate four masses in three languages (Kinyarwanda, English, and French). Our advice? Attend the second mass to hear the word of God in English.
Regina Pacis Catholic Church
Address: Kigali, Rwanda
9. Find quirky souvenirs at Caplaki Craft Village
If you’re looking for something that will remind you of Rwanda when you get back home, Caplaki Craft Village should be included on your list. This is a splendid place for shopping and finding unique and quirky things for souvenirs. Handmade Rwandan art, artworks, craft; the list just goes on and on. It features plenty of stalls and friendly vendors. Try your bargaining skills, who knows, you might get a 30 to 40% discount.
Caplaki Craft Village
Address: KK 2 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
10. Admire local artworks at Ivuka Arts Studio
Perched in Kacyiru, Ivuka Arts Studio is a place for inspiration and love. It features deep and amazing contemporary artworks created by Uganda and Rwandan artists. It offers tons of arts and crafts at a very reasonable price. Ivuka Arts was founded in 2007 by an artist whose name is Colin Sekajugo. At first, the art gallery only consisted of a group of seven. They encouraged young people to paint; that was the beginning of the growth of the art gallery. Today, Ivuka Arts takes pride in representing its country all over the world by showcasing the artists’ talents through exhibits in the US, UK, and some parts of Asia.
Ivuka Arts Studio
Address: KG 565 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 6pm; (closed on Sun)
11. Support young artists at Niyo Arts Gallery
East Africa is even more beautiful because of its art centers. Niyo Arts Gallery is consistently known for helping deprived street children in Kigali. The founder, Niyonsenga Pacifique, was once a destitute child in town but blessed enough to receive some support from a Canadian sponsor who helped him achieve his dreams. Pacifique focuses his time and resources on teaching children in music, song, dance, and art. If you want something that you will remember in life, perhaps helping these kids to have a better life is something you could cherish forever.
Niyo Arts Gallery
Address: kg513 St, Gasabo District, Kigali city, Rwanda
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
12. Taste the finest drinks at 1000 Hills Distillery
1000 Hills Distillery boasts the finest liquors like no other in East Africa. This is the first craft distillery, which offers premium drinks from Vodka to London Dry Gin to Coffee Liquor and more. This place is top-notch. Imagine yourself admiring the beautiful scenery in a tranquil atmosphere with a glass of vodka in your hand. Splendid, right? All drinks taste better if it’s accompanied by delectable food. Satay, tacos, burger, Kigali’s best steak; all the food is a must-try.
1000 Hills Distillery
Address: KK 30 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: 1000 Hills Distillery
Opening hours: 11:45am - 10pm (daily)
13. Discover mesmerizing views at the top of Mt. Kigali
In the southwestern part of the city, you will find the highest mountain in Kigali, Mt. Kigali. The trail starts at Giti cy’inyoni. Along the way, you will meet friendly villagers. Don’t forget to smile and say “maramutse” in the morning and “miriwe” in the afternoon. The length of the trail is more likely 4.82 km (3 mi) away and the highest point is about 1,812 n (5,945 ft). The trail ends up at Nyamirambo. Fresh air, a stunning trail, magnificent scene, that’s what awaits you after an exhausting hike.
Mt. Kigali
Address: Kigali, Rwanda
14. Explore the green mosque at Muslim Quarter
Posted by Max Bone on Thursday, 8 December 2016
Muslim Quarter is a green mosque in Kigali. The location of the quarter is top-notch. It is surrounded by plenty of local eateries/restaurants, nice shops, stores, salons, recording studios, and more. This can be a small version of New York in Kigali. The quarter is vibrant and modern, plus the green-and-white mosque dominates the area. Visiting this quarter can give you a sense of Arab-influence-vibe in Africa.
Muslim Quarter
Address: Nyamirambo District, Kigali, Rwanda
15. Learn more about the genocide at Campaign Against Genocide Museum
This is another inspirational place that will keep everyone moving, perhaps to tears. Campaign Against Genocide Museum features plenty of important monuments, which depict the dark history of the genocide in 1994. Learn everything behind those monuments like the story of love, pain, bravery, heroism, and more. Moreover, some monuments describe the different strategies conducted by anti-genocidal forces and the government.
Campaign Against Genocide Museum
Address: RN3, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
16. Get yourself an amazing book to read at Ikirezi Bookstore
Posted by Ikirezi on Monday, 18 September 2017
If reading good books is your thing, there’s no better place in East Africa that will give you much happiness than Libraire Ikirezi Bookshop. This bookshop highlights everything about the African great lakes region and East Africa in totality. Art pieces, stationery, fancy pens, books, newspapers, magazines, we know you enjoy the smell of new books, that’s why a visit to the Ikirezi Bookstore is a must.
Ikirezi Bookstore
Address: Ikirezi Bookstore N°, 15 KG 5 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Ikirezi Bookstore
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 9:30am - 6:30pm
17. View the best photo displays at Kigali Center for Photography
If you are an avid fan of captured beauty, why not spend some time at Kigali Center for Photography? This gorgeous center was founded by Jacques Nkinzingabo, and it offers workshops and training to local photographers for free! The Kigali Center of photography promotes the beauty of Rwanda in every way. They even invite international photographers and scholars to conduct some seminars and training.
Kigali Center for Photography
Address: KG 5 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Kigali Center for Photography
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5:30pm; Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
18. Enjoy a meal at Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Heaven Rwanda on Wednesday, August 5, 2020
After an exhausting African tour, at this point, you’re probably aiming for some delicious fare and cold drinks to replenish your energy. Wish granted! Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel is a combination of relaxation, impeccable service, and a mouthwatering mixture of African and international cuisines. If you want more indulgence, try their fitness center, saltwater pools, or perhaps a full-service spa is what you need.
Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel
Address: 7 KN 29 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 10:30pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10:30pm
19. Dance the night away at People Bar & Dance Venue
Yes, the nightlife is inevitable too at Kigali. People Bar & Dance Venue is one of the best clubbing destinations and a favorite go-to-place of party animals in town. Situated in the upper part of Kacyiru, this bar never runs out of style to keep everyone happy and upbeat, from the fun atmosphere to a lovely set up, from drinks to snacks and everything you are looking for a great night. It was opened in 2015 and since then, visitors keep coming to have fun. Another drawcard is their cool DJs in town who will make you move your body.
People Bar & Dance Venue
Address: KG 543 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: People Bar & Dance Venue
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 9pm - 6pm; Fri: 9pm - 6:30am
20. Shop till you drop at Kigali Heights
Known as one of the most stunning buildings in Kigali, Kigali Heights offers everything you are looking for. This is a lovely shopping center that features tons of bars, shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and financial services; the list is endless. It encourages you to explore unique souvenirs, as plenty of quirky shops are available.
Kigali Heights
Address: KG 7 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 6:30am - 10pm (daily)
21. Visit Kigali Convention Centre
Posted by Kigali Convention Center on Friday, 1 December 2017
Situated near the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center, Kigali Convention Centre is a gigantic center with 32,000 sq m (344, 445 sq ft) net floor area, and it features everything from high-quality facilities to event for business and leisure. Who says you cannot mix business with pleasure? Overall, it has 18 superb meeting rooms with the latest technology and logistics, plus a state-of-the-art auditorium that can cater to up to 2,600 guests. All the facilities are modern and in good condition. It becomes even more beautiful at night as it shines among the rest with its vibrant color. Moreover, the center is best for backdrop if you plan to have some photo ops.
Kigali Convention Centre
Address: KG 2 Roundabout, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Kigali Convention Centre
22. Pay respects to the genocide victims at Kigali Genocide Memorial
Operated by Aegis Trust, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is consistently known to be a place for “remembrance and learning”. Over one million Rwandans are believed to have lost their lives during the Genocide against Tutsis. This solemn memorial became the resting place of more than 250,000 victims of the genocide. The museum is well organized, and it features exhibits, pictures, and displays about the history of Rwanda. Your heart will surely break as you hear the dark stories of the genocide. This place continues to be an inspiration of hope, love, and unity.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Address: KG 14 Ave, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Kigali Genocide Memorial
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
23. Discover world-class artwork at Inema Arts Center
There are plenty of places to visit and love in Kigali, and Inema Arts Center is no exception. This cultural venue is home to tons of displays and exhibits that you won’t find anywhere else in any part of East Africa. This center aims to showcase the talents and creations of all artists from East Africa. They also work with orphanage centers to bring out the artistic talents of the orphans by mentoring them. Overall, this place is not only for those who love art but also for those who want to give love as well.
Inema Arts Center
Address: KG 563 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Inema Arts Center
Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 7am - 6:30pm; Thu: 7am - 11:30pm
24. Catch a football match at Amahoro Stadium
Situated in Kigali, Gasabo district, Amahoro Stadium or Amahoro National Stadium is indeed a perfect venue for any sports, public events, and concerts that can cater to 30,000 people (the biggest stadium in Rwanda). Feeling bored? Nothing is more entertaining than to catch a good football match at this stadium. The place has a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, which is also ideal for taking a morning stroll.
Amahoro Stadium
Address: Gasabo district, Kigali, Rwanda
Website: Amahoro Stadium
25. Learn about natural history at Kandt House Museum
Kandt House Museum is dedicated to Richard Kandt (a German explorer). The museum highlights Rwanda’s natural history and nature. Yes, don’t be surprised to see plenty of serpents and reptiles inside, as the museum aims to showcase the evolution of all, from plants to animals and even the connection between all living beings and nature. During your visit, a nice tour guide will assist you where you can get an overview of the first colonization and civilization of Rwanda.
Kandt House Museum
Address: 2 KN 90 St, Kigali, Rwanda
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
A life-changing journey to Kigali
It’s now time to learn the amazing journey and successes that this wonderful nation has been through in the 20 years since the tragedy (genocide) of 1994. It’s hard not to be moved by Kigali’s beauty and history. If you visit, you will never look at life the same way again.
History
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