In this guide, we’ve compiled some of the top things to do in Kigali.
Kigali is Rwanda’s capital and gateway city. It is a model modern metropolis characterized by stunning natural beauty and a reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest and safest capitals. The charming city spreads across countless hills and valleys, reflecting Rwanda’s moniker “Land of a Thousand Hills”.
Because of the pain of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans developed a great sense of unity, ownership, collaboration and community, a shift that helped rebuild their country afresh socially, economically and politically into what it is today, thanks to the current development-focused leadership.
With a population of 1,745,555 according to the 2022 Rwanda Census, Kigali is the country’s most rapidly growing urban area and the center of arts, transportation and culture. Its central location makes it easily accessible by road from any part of the country or all neighboring countries.
For instance, the Nyandungu Eco-Park is a short drive from the city center while Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park are each 2.5 hours away, making the city a great starting or finishing point for any safari in Rwanda.
Kigali offers a blend of poignant history, thriving arts, scenic hills and thrilling activities to experience. Below are some of our handpicked recommendations for things to do in Kigali.
Things to do in Kigali: Top Attractions
1. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is one of the most visited sites in Kigali. It is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It pays tribute to the victims, displaying their skulls and pictures, including those of very young children. The site provides insight into Rwanda’s long, complex history and the opportunity to reflect and learn about the tragedy.
2. Explore the city’s art scene
A visit to Kigali is incomplete without exploring the city’s art centers, crafts Shops and art galleries. For instance, the Niyo and Inema Art Centers, both of which are homes of Rwandan art fostering creativity. They feature galleries with artists-in-residences, weekly live music, and yoga sessions.
The Inema Art Center is arguably the best creative hub in Kigali. Opened in 2012, it features a collection of Rwandan creative art works from celebrated artists, both resident and international. It is the place to go to if you are interested in vibrant, contemporary African art including workshops, and cultural events.
3. Visit Nyandungu Eco Park
Tucked away in the valley between Kicuciro and Masoro-Bumbogo hill, the 121-hectare wetland is Kigali’s first restored urban wetland. It allows you to reconnect with nature while enjoying activities such as cycling, hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. It’s open to the public from 6am-6pm daily.
4. Visit the Presidential Palace and Museum
The Presidential Palace Museum is the house that served as the residence of Rwanda’s former president Juvenal Habyarimana. Now turned into a museum, it features intriguing exhibits, including some “secret” rooms and an odd presidential nightclub, as well as the wreckage of Habyarimana’s presidential plane.
5. Visit the Kandt House Museum
Nestled atop the tranquil Nyarugenge Hill in Kigali, the Kandt House was transformed into a museum housing specimens of Rwanda’s natural history, including a crocodile skeleton. The property was the residence of Dr. Kandt, the first colonial governor of Rwanda for Germany in the early 1900s. A visit can take anywhere between 1 and 2 hours.
6. Visiting the Kigali Convention Center
Perched atop one of Kigali’s hills just next to the famous Radisson Blu Hotel, the Kigali Convention Centre is an iconic, world-class building for hosting large-scale and international events. It is designed in homage to the king’s palace in Nyanza. Visitors can enjoy its architectural marvel as it illuminates the night sky.
7. Visiting the Kigali Cultural Village
The Kigali Cultural Village is a traditional market space where local artisans and food vendors exhibit and trade their goods including food from different regions of Africa. It also features a botanical garden, open-air museums with art works from different African cultures, live music performances and dance workshops.
8. Visiting local markets
Visiting local markets like Kimironko and Nyarugenge allows you to experience the daily life of the locals first-hand. You will explore and taste a great selection of local goods ranging from fresh produce and food items to fabrics and unique crafts.
9. Hiking Mount Kigali
Located in the southwestern corner of the city centre, the 1853 m high namesake Mount Kigali is a straightforward, less strenuous hill trek that yields stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The trail typically begins in Nyamirambo area and ends in the Nyabarongo wetland (Ruliba clay factory).
10. Horseback Riding
Visitors can go horseback riding in Kigali’s beautiful countryside and around Mount Kigali, which offers breathtaking views of the city. It can be arranged at the Fazenda Sengha in Mount Kigali and at the Rugende Park. Participants usually practice the basics of handling a horse before embarking on the long ride.
Sample safaris
