Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda, holds a unique position in the heart of the country, both geographically and historically. Ascending to its role as the nation’s capital after Rwanda’s independence from Belgium in 1962, Kigali serves as a natural point of entry for travelers eager to explore the diverse landscapes and captivating attractions that Rwanda has to offer. Rather than simply passing through, allocating a few days to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere is highly recommended. Kigali has undergone a remarkable transformation since the devastating Rwandan Genocide of 1994, emerging as one of the safest and cleanest capital cities in Africa. The city presents a striking contrast between modern progress and the natural beauty of the surrounding hills. Skyscrapers and burgeoning start-up companies share the landscape with lush greenery, while contemporary art galleries, inviting coffeehouses, and diverse restaurants contribute to Kigali’s cosmopolitan charm.
To truly experience the essence of this evolving metropolis, consider exploring the best things to do in Kigali.
Go On a Guided Tour of the City
One of the most rewarding ways to understand Kigali is through the eyes of its residents. Embarking on a guided tour offers the opportunity to hear personal stories about the city’s various neighborhoods and gain valuable insights into the local culture. Knowledgeable guides can provide context and answer questions, enriching your understanding of Kigali’s past and present. Several tour operators offer diverse itineraries to cater to different interests.
Yambi Tours & Adventures specializes in private tours, highlighting the city’s historical old town, vibrant art galleries, bustling markets, and significant historical sites. They also offer unique food-themed tours, including hands-on cooking classes that allow you to delve into Rwandan cuisine. Kigali City Tour provides guided excursions to many of the city’s must-see attractions, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the Inema Arts Center, and the Kimironko Market. These tours offer a comprehensive overview of Kigali’s key landmarks and cultural highlights.
Pay Your Respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial
A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is an essential and deeply moving experience for anyone seeking to understand Rwanda’s recent history. The memorial serves as a solemn tribute to the victims of the Rwandan Genocide, a horrific event that unfolded in April 1994. Triggered by decades of ethnic conflict, the Hutu majority government initiated a systematic slaughter of the Tutsi people. In a span of just over three months, approximately one million people were brutally murdered.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of this tragedy, housing the remains of 259,000 victims in mass graves. The memorial features three permanent exhibitions, the largest of which meticulously documents the events of the genocide and commemorates the lives lost. Through powerful photographs, testimonies, and artifacts, the exhibition offers an emotional and unflinching account of the horrors that shaped Rwanda’s recent past. After absorbing the weight of this history, visitors can find solace and reflection in the memorial’s tranquil gardens, a space for quiet contemplation and remembrance.
Bear Witness to the Tragedies at Nyamata Church
For a more visceral and profound understanding of the Rwandan Genocide, consider taking a trip to the Nyamata Church Genocide Memorial, located approximately an hour’s drive south of Kigali. This site stands as a haunting testament to the scale and brutality of the genocide. In Nyamata, approximately 10,000 Tutsi sought refuge within the confines of the church compound, believing it would offer sanctuary. Tragically, Hutu extremists stormed the church, using grenades to breach the locked doors and unleashing a massacre upon those seeking safety.
Today, the remains of over 50,000 victims are buried at Nyamata, a somber reminder of the lives lost. The church itself remains largely untouched, bearing the original bullet holes in the ceiling and walls, stark evidence of the violence that occurred within its walls. Inside, the bloodstained clothing of the victims, along with their personal belongings and skeletal remains, are displayed as a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of hatred and intolerance. The Nyamata Church serves as a powerful and unforgettable lesson, underscoring the importance of preventing such atrocities from ever happening again.
Discover the Story Behind the Real-Life Hotel Rwanda
The Hôtel des Mille Collines, once the grandest hotel in Kigali, gained international recognition through the 2004 film Hotel Rwanda. The movie tells the story of Paul Rusesabagina, the hotel’s Hutu manager, who courageously sheltered hundreds of Tutsi refugees within its walls during the Rwandan Genocide. While Rusesabagina’s actions have since been subject to controversy, the hotel itself remains a significant landmark in Rwandan history.
Although its pre-1994 grandeur may have faded, the Hôtel des Mille Collines continues to be a glamorous destination. Visitors can enjoy afternoon drinks at the poolside bar or savor fine local and international cuisine at the fourth-floor restaurant. While relaxing amidst the hotel’s lush gardens, it’s worth contemplating the hotel’s history, including the fact that the pool served as the only source of water for the refugees who sought refuge within its walls. A visit to the Hôtel des Mille Collines offers a poignant glimpse into a pivotal moment in Rwandan history.
Fine-tune Your Haggling Skills at Kimironko Market
For an immersive and authentic shopping experience, venture into the heart of Kigali and explore Kimironko Market, the city’s largest and most popular marketplace. This vast warehouse complex is a bustling hub of activity, where vendors from all over Rwanda, as well as East, Central, and West Africa, come to sell their wares. Kimironko Market offers a treasure trove of souvenirs, crafts, and vibrant kitenge fabric, which can be transformed into unique clothing by the market’s skilled on-site seamstresses.
Beyond souvenirs, Kimironko Market is a vital marketplace for local Rwandans. Different sections of the market are dedicated to selling colorful fruits and vegetables, clothing, household supplies, and even pungent meat and seafood. The market is a sensory overload, filled with chaotic energy, loud noises, and a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. However, it offers an invaluable insight into the daily lives of Kigali’s residents. Remember that bargaining is expected at Kimironko Market, so be prepared to put your haggling skills to the test.
Take a Cultural Tour at the Nyamirambo Women’s Center
Located in Kigali’s multicultural Nyamirambo district, the Nyamirambo Women’s Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Rwandan women. The center provides women with education and training, equipping them with the skills they need to secure employment and improve their livelihoods. The women at the center use their skills to create high-quality children’s clothing, accessories, and home decor products from traditional kitenge fabrics. These items make beautiful and meaningful souvenirs, with proceeds supporting the center’s community programs.
The Nyamirambo Women’s Center also offers popular walking tours of the Nyamirambo district. These tours provide a unique opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand. After enjoying a traditional snack and a brief Kinyarwanda lesson, a local guide will lead you through Nyamirambo’s residential areas, independent businesses, and mosques. Following the tour, you can savor a traditional lunch at one of the women’s homes, gaining a deeper understanding of Rwandan hospitality. The center also offers sisal basket weaving workshops and traditional cooking classes, providing visitors with hands-on cultural experiences.
Shop for Rwandan Art at the Inema Art Center
Founded in 2012 by two brothers passionate about supporting and promoting emerging Rwandan artists, the Inema Art Center has become one of Kigali’s leading contemporary art galleries. The center showcases the work of both emerging and established artists from around the world and serves as a studio for ten artists-in-residence, who work across a diverse range of mediums.
The Inema Art Center also plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of Rwandan creatives. The center hosts workshops and training programs, including weekly classes for orphans with artistic talent, traditional dance programs for children, and a crafts program for women. Visitors can explore the gallery’s collection of artwork or browse the gift shop for jewelry, linens, and leatherwork created by the center’s students. The Inema Art Center also hosts regular music and dance performances, providing a platform for local talent and enriching the cultural landscape of Kigali. When seeking for the best things to do in Kigali, put Inema Art Center on your bucket list.
Sample Rwandan Specialties Alongside the Locals
Kigali’s thriving café culture offers numerous opportunities to sample Rwandan specialties and immerse yourself in the local culinary scene. Inzora Rooftop Café, nestled at the back of Ikirezi bookstore, offers a delightful example of this trend. The café’s rooftop terrace provides spectacular views of the city and its surrounding hills, creating a scenic backdrop for a relaxing meal or coffee break. The café sources its coffee from a cooperative that benefits over 2,000 farmers, ensuring that your purchase supports local communities. The menu features a range of Western-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, from macadamia and chia seed granola to gluten-free brownies.
For a more traditional Rwandan experience, head to Repub Lounge, a popular spot among both locals and visitors. The lounge’s African-inspired interiors, adorned with kitenge fabrics and handcrafted furniture, create a convivial atmosphere. The outdoor deck offers mesmerizing views of the city lights, providing a perfect setting for an evening of relaxation. The menu features Rwandan and East African cuisine, with a focus on grilled meats and vegetarian options. The curry coconut fish is a standout dish, and African-style sharing platters are perfect for larger groups. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a local beer from the extensive drinks list and enjoy live Afro-inspired music. Visiting Repub Lounge is definitely one of the best things to do in Kigali.
Exploring these best things to do in Kigali will give you a deep appreciation for the city’s history, culture, and resilience. Kigali is a city that embraces both its past and its future, offering a unique and enriching experience for every traveler.
