What to do in Kigali

1. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

• The Kigali Genocide Memorial is one of the most significant landmarks in the city. It honors the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and educates visitors on the country’s painful history. The memorial is a deeply moving experience, offering exhibits on the genocide’s history, its impact on Rwanda, and stories of survival.
• The site includes a mass grave and a museum with multimedia exhibits.

2. Explore Kimironko Market

• For a more authentic experience, head to Kimironko Market, one of the largest markets in Kigali. Here, you can shop for local fruits, vegetables, fabrics, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It’s a bustling market where you can interact with locals and get a sense of the daily life in Kigali.

3. Kigali City Tour (Kigali Heights & Kigali Hills)

• A city of hills, and a tour around the various viewpoints gives you a panoramic view of the city’s layout. Kigali Heights and Hills offer excellent vantage points to appreciate the city’s beauty and unique geography.
• You can also explore the Nyamirambo district for a vibrant experience of Kigali’s Muslim community, filled with colorful streets and cafes.

4. Visit the Inema Art Center

• The Inema Art Center is one of the leading galleries in the city, showcasing contemporary Rwandan art. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and installations by local artists, many of whom focus on social and political themes.
• It’s also an opportunity to meet local artists and purchase unique pieces of art.

5. Kigali’s Nightlife & Dining

• The city has a growing dining scene, with plenty of restaurants serving local Rwandan food as well as international cuisine. Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel and The Hut are popular choices.
• If you’re interested in nightlife, It has a variety of bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Popular spots include Bourbon Café and The Kigali Arena, where you can enjoy a night out in a lively atmosphere.

6. Take a Walk in the Kigali Green Spaces

• It is a city of parks and green spaces, so you can enjoy a peaceful walk in places like the Kigali City Park or the Kimironko Forest. These are great spots for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or simply enjoying nature.
• The Nyarutarama Lake is another serene spot to visit, especially for birdwatching and relaxation.

7. Visit the Presidential Palace Museum (Kanombe)

• The Presidential Palace Museum is located in the former residence of Rwanda’s president, Juvénal Habyarimana. It was the site of the plane crash that marked the beginning of the genocide. The museum is an important historical site, offering insight into Rwanda’s political history and the events leading up to the 1994 genocide.

8. Take a Day Trip to Volcanoes National Park

• While not in Kigali itself, Volcanoes National Park is just a 2.5-hour drive away and is home to the famous mountain gorillas. A trip to Kigali can be easily combined with a day or two of gorilla trekking in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The park offers not only gorilla trekking but also scenic hikes, including those to the Dian Fossey Tomb.

9. Visit the Rwanda Art Museum (former Presidential Palace)

• Located in the former Presidential Palace, this museum displays a collection of contemporary Rwandan art and sculptures. The beautiful surroundings add to the experience of exploring local art.

10. Kigali Coffee Tour

• Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee, and you can enjoy a coffee tour in Kigali. Some coffee shops and roasteries offer tours where you can learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup.

11. Explore the Local Handicrafts and Souvenirs

• In Kigali, you’ll find a variety of shops selling Rwandan handicrafts, including handwoven baskets, wooden carvings, and fabric products like Agaseke baskets. These items make for great souvenirs and are excellent gifts to bring back home.

12. Learn Traditional Dance and Music

• Many hotels and cultural centers in Kigali offer opportunities to witness or participate in traditional Rwandan dance and drumming performances. The Intore Dance is a well-known Rwandan cultural performance, showcasing traditional music and dance.

13. Take a Cooking Class

• Learn to cook traditional Rwandan dishes by taking a cooking class. You can find local chefs or tour companies offering lessons in making dishes like Isombe (cassava leaves) or Ibihaza (pumpkin stew).

This is a city that offers a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, making it a great starting point for a trip to Rwanda. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in Kigali!