10 Best Things to do on a Kigali City Tour

Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda, is a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. Nestled among lush hills, the city offers visitors a unique cultural experience, rich history, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Kigali has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do on a Kigali city tour:

1. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

One of the most significant and moving sites in Kigali is the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This solemn place commemorates the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. The memorial provides an insightful and emotional experience, offering exhibits that chronicle the events leading up to the genocide, its aftermath, and the resilience of the Rwandan people. It’s an important stop to understand Rwanda’s history, and the memorial also serves as a final resting place for over 250,000 victims. A visit here offers a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s journey to healing and reconciliation.

2. Explore the Kimironko Market.

For a more vibrant, everyday experience of Kigali, head to Kimironko Market. One of the largest and most colorful markets in the city, Kimironko offers everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a lively hub of activity where visitors can interact with locals, learn about Rwandan food and culture, and pick up handmade crafts such as baskets, wooden carvings, and jewellery. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Kigali’s local life and grab unique souvenirs.

3. Take a Walking Tour of Nyamirambo.

The Nyamirambo neighborhood is a bustling, diverse area known for its vibrant culture and history. Taking a walking tour of this lively district allows you to explore Kigali’s multicultural side, from its colorful streets to its traditional architecture. During the tour, you can visit local shops, sample street food, and hear stories from residents about the neighborhood’s history. Nyamirambo is also home to the Nyamirambo Women’s Center, which provides a community-based tour that introduces visitors to the area’s culture while supporting local women.

4. Climb to the Top of Mount Kigali

For panoramic views of Kigali, take a hike to the top of Mount Kigali. This is a relatively easy hike and rewards visitors with sweeping vistas of the city’s hills, valleys, and nearby landscapes. The summit provides an excellent spot for photography and is a peaceful escape from the bustling city below. The walk offers a chance to see Kigali from a different perspective and enjoy its natural beauty.

5. Visit the Inema Arts Center.

Art lovers will enjoy a trip to the Inema Arts Center, which showcases contemporary Rwandan art. Located in the Kacyiru district, the center features works by local artists and hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. Visitors can appreciate a diverse range of mediums, from paintings and sculptures to photography and textiles. It’s a great way to learn about Rwanda’s emerging art scene while supporting local talent.

6. Tour the Presidential Palace Museum.

The Presidential Palace Museum in Kigali was the former residence of Rwanda’s president during the 1990s. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Rwanda’s political history. The museum features artifacts, documents, and personal items from the era, offering insights into the country’s leadership and the events surrounding the 1994 genocide. The surrounding gardens and the remnants of the presidential helicopter also add to the historical significance of the site.

7. Explore Kigali’s Nightlife.

Kigali’s nightlife has blossomed in recent years, and it’s now home to a range of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that cater to both locals and visitors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with a cocktail or a lively nightclub to dance the night away, Kigali offers something for everyone. Popular areas like Kigali’s City Centre, Nyarutarama, and Kacyiru are known for their vibrant nightlife scene, and visitors can enjoy delicious Rwandan cuisine, live music, and performances.

8. Visit the Rwanda Art Museum

Located in Huye, about a two-hour drive from Kigali, the Rwanda Art Museum is an impressive venue dedicated to showcasing the nation’s art history. The museum is housed in a former royal palace and boasts a collection of traditional Rwandan art, including masks, paintings, and carvings. The museum provides insight into Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and the evolution of its artistic expression.

9. Enjoy a Coffee Tour

Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee, and no visit to Kigali would be complete without a coffee tour. You can visit one of Kigali’s many coffee farms, roasteries, or cafes to learn about the coffee production process. From bean cultivation to roasting and brewing, the tour will take you through the journey of Rwanda’s prized beans, allowing you to taste some of the best coffee in the world.

10. Relax at Lake Kivu

While not technically in Kigali, Lake Kivu is a short drive away and is perfect for a day trip. Located to the west of Kigali, Lake Kivu offers beautiful beaches, calm waters, and picturesque towns such as Rubavu and Gisenyi. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, swim in the lake, or simply relax on the shores. It’s an excellent way to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy Rwanda’s natural beauty.

Kigali offers a diverse range of experiences, from its poignant historical sites to vibrant markets and modern cultural centers. Whether you’re interested in exploring Rwanda’s history, immersing yourself in its arts scene, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the city, Kigali has something for everyone. These top 10 things to do on a Kigali city tour will give you a well-rounded experience of this dynamic and welcoming capital.