Located in the heart of hilly Rwanda, Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda, a gateway to all tourism destinations in the country, and a starting point for all Rwanda safaris. The small city is ranked the most clean and organized city in the whole of Africa! More so, Kigali city is famous for hosting important, meetings and conferences bringing all kinds of delegates from all parts of the country. Despite the dark history of the 1994 genocide, Kigali city and the whole of Rwanda have transformed into a peaceful tourist destination.
The blend of modern developments, smooth roads, great conference centers, museums, hotels, and shopping centers make Kigali a must-visit for everyone in Rwanda. The city is a starting point for all Rwanda tours which include gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest, and big game safaris in Akagera National Park. The city is surrounded by numerous rolling hills which offer travelers with beautiful views
Tourist Destinations in Kigali City
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Kigali genocide memorial center is one most visited tourist destinations in Kigali city. The center is where the remains of the 1994 genocide victims were buried. While at the center, travelers are taught about the genocide, the causes, and the successful transformation process. Kigali genocide memorial centre serves as a place for remembrance and education
Kandt House Museum (Natural History Museum)
Also known as the Natural History Museum, the house is named after Richard Kadt, the first colonial governor of Rwanda. The house comprises three parts, one presents Rwanda’s life, the second place presents Rwanda’s experience during the colonial government, and the third place presents the history of Rwanda, before, during, and after the colonial period.
Inema Arts Center
Inema is a center of Rwanda’s Art which was founded by two brothers. The center is a vibrant hub for modern Rwandan art, showcasing the talent of local artists and fostering creative expression. The interesting projects at the center include Inema dances, inema café, Nziza Art Initiative & workshops. The art gallery comprises many art pieces and crafts that travelers are encouraged to buy. Buying the crafts is an indirect way of supporting the local people’s standards of living
Kimironko Market
Visit Kimiranko market, the center for fresh foods and fruits, and all the local foods of Rwanda. Experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional African market, where you can find a wide array of goods, from fresh produce to local crafts. A visit to the market gives you a chance to meet and interact with local people who share their traditions, norms, customs, and beliefs.
Presidential Palace Museum
This is a home for the former president of Kigali the late Juvenile Habyarimana who was killed in 1994. The museum allows visitors to explore the former presidential palace, and learn about the history
Nyamirambo Women’s Center
Visit the Nyamirambo women’s center to meet and interact with local Rwandan women offering you the chance to learn about their handwork and lifestyles. Enjoy seeing how traditional women sew handbags, baskets, and sweaters and do a variety of crafts. Buying a craft is an indirect way of supporting these women and it’s highly encouraged.
Activities to do in Kigali City
Some of the popular activities to do in Kigali city include city walking, city sightseeing, shopping, bicycle riding, driving, and nightlife among others
Other Tourist Destinations in Rwanda
Besides Kigali city, Rwanda comprises other tourist destinations that offer travelers lifetime experiences.
When exploring Kigali, remember to be respectful of the city’s history and culture. Enjoy the unique blend of modernity and tradition that makes Kigali a truly remarkable destination. The places to visit in Rwanda include
Volcanoes national park
Home to the endangered mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is one of the most visited places in Rwanda. The park is a center of gorilla trekking which rewards travelers with a lifetime experience. The park shelters over 400 mountain gorillas which is the highest population in the Virunga Conservation Area and the second highest in the whole world after Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. 10 gorilla families have been habituated into 10 families and each family is visited by 8 people. 80 permits are issued each day each costing $1500.
The habituated gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park include the Susa A family, Karisimbi Family, Umubano Family, Agashya Family, Amahoro Family, Pablo Family, Titus Family, Sabyinyo Family, Kwitonda family and Hirwa family. Other activities in Volcanoes National Park include golden monkey trekking, bird watching, a boat ride on Bulera and Ruhondo twin lakes, visiting the Musaze caves, nature walking, and visiting the gorilla guardians’ village
Akagera National Park
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park is another interesting place to visit on your Rwanda safari. The park is home to the Big Five and several other savannah animals and birds. Game viewing is the major tourist activity done in Akagera National Park. Guided game drives in the open savannah offer travelers an opportunity to see wild animals hunting, grazing, and browsing. Expect to see animals such as Zebras, Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffalos, Topis, Duikers, Waterbucks, Warthogs, Rhinos, and Hippos among others. For birders, Akagera National Park is home to over 480 bird species which include Marabou Stork, Sooty chat, African Fish eagle, Amur falcon, Booty Eagle, Red-faced barbet, and papyrus Gonelek among others. Moreso, enjoy a boat cruise at Lake Ihema, sport fishing, nature walking and community tours among others.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Travel to southwestern Rwanda to Nyunwe Forest National Park, a center of chimpanzee trekking and canopy walking experience. Treks to see chimpanzees is the major activity in this rain forest which is done alongside canopy walk. Nature walking, colobus monkey trekking, and bird watching are other interesting activities done in Nyungwe Forest National Park
How to book a Kigali city tour
Superfine Safaris is your reliable travel agency in Rwanda. We offer customized Rwanda safaris to Kigali city and other tourist destinations in the country at pocket-friendly prices. Contact us today for tailored Rwanda tours
