Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is a vibrant and picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a history of resilience. Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Kigali is a city on the rise, and it has become a must-visit for travelers seeking to explore the hidden gems of this enchanting nation. In this guide, we’ll delve into the top 15 things to do in Kigali, ensuring that your trip with Ripple Safaris is an unforgettable adventure.
Genocide Memorial Center
Start your journey in Kigali with a visit to the Genocide Memorial Center. This poignant and informative site pays tribute to the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. The center educates visitors about the tragic history of the nation while emphasizing the importance of unity and reconciliation.
Inaugurated in 2004, the Kigali Genocide memorial at Gisozi is the final resting place for more than 250000 victims of the genocide against the Tutsi. The wall of names is dedicated to those who died and is a work still in progress. Many of the victims’ names have yet to be gathered and documented and many of the victims’ names have yet to be gathered and documented and many of the victims who rest in the graves are unknown.
The memorial gardens provide a place for quiet contemplation about the history of the genocide against the Tutsi. They allow visitors to reflect on how we all have a personal responsibility to prevent discrimination and mass atrocity. The center also provides support for survivors, in particular orphans and widows.
While the largest memorial is in Kigali, there are others spread across the country and some are just simple and quiet gardens to sit and for contemplation while others are larger and hold relics, remains and exhibits on the genocide itself.
Kigali Convention Center
The iconic Kigali Convention Center stands as a symbol of Rwanda’s modernity and progress from the past. This architectural marvel is a must-see, even if you’re not attending a conference or event. The rooftop offers panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for memorable photos.
Kigali convention Centre, officially launched in July 2016 and became the most popular MICE destination in the east African region. The building contains facilities for business, leisure and events. There is a total of 18 versatile meeting spaces, including a state of the art auditorium that can hold up to 2,600 guests for weddings or professional business meetings. Three other components of the four is a 5 star hotel (Radisson Blu hotel Kigali) with over 292rooms on 6 floors, an IT office park and a museum on the bottom floor of the it park.
Inema Arts Center
Dive into Rwanda’s thriving art scene at Inema Arts Center. The center is one of the major art galleries in east Africa and showcases contemporary Rwandan art, offering a unique perspective on the nation’s history, culture, and creativity. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet local artists and perhaps even purchase a masterpiece.
The arts center is in the heart of the city, it is home to programs, projects and initiatives that expand creative arts in Rwanda. Through workshops, trainings, and hands on classes, the Inema arts center provides a space to fuel creative expression. This is the perfect place to experience Rwanda’s finest arts and creative minds and creations. You will be fascinated.
Caplaki Craft Village
For an authentic Rwandan shopping experience, head to Caplaki Craft Village. It is located in Rwanda’s capital Kigali. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of crafts, including baskets, clothes, jewelry, woodcarvings, contemporary paintings, ceramics and more. This bustling market is an excellent place to pick up souvenirs to remember your trip by.
If you want to be mesmerized, awed, inspired and challenged beautifully of course, this is the right place to be to experience the African “gifted hands”. Due to the number of shops around, the prices stay competitive but you can bargain your way to a suitable deal.
Kimironko Market
Experience the vibrant local culture at Kimironko Market. This bustling marketplace is a great place to immerse yourself in daily life in Kigali. The vibrant market is set in a sprawling warehouse complex with four equal sized entrances. The market is busiest in the afternoon, when sellers have just arrived and are showing their wares for sale.
Saturdays and Mondays are often the busiest days of the week, with Sundays considered quite sluggish due to many merchants having a day off. In this market you will find juicy mangoes, little bananas, sour passion fruit, tree tomatoes, avocados the size of your fist in the middle, interesting right? Melons, pumpkins and so much more.
Spices, eggs, meats, and all other food stuffs. Clothes both second hand and tailor made, lots of other goodies are at your display shading this market with color and life. Although it is not a small market, it is easy to navigate because the things sold are organized by type and hence location.
Kigali Heights Mall
If you’re in the mood for some modern shopping, Kigali Heights Mall has you covered. With a selection of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon and do some shopping for high-quality Rwandan products.
Nyamirambo Women’s Center
Support the local community and learn about Rwandan culture by visiting the Nyamirambo Women’s Center. Take part in guided tours, workshops, and cooking classes, and interact with the inspiring women who lead these initiatives.
The center was founded in 2008 as a self-help group that quickly grew to become a center that offers free education for women in the Nyamirambo neighborhood. Guided walks throughout the center and participating in the day to day lives of the local people is one way to support sustainable tourism and without forgetting the fulfillment of experiencing a way of life that differs from yours.
Nyarutarama Golf Club
For golf enthusiasts, a visit to Nyarutarama Golf Club is a must. The club offers a challenging 9-hole course and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking for some recreational fun, this is the place to be.
Mount Kigali
Embark on a hiking adventure to Mount Kigali, which provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s natural beauty. The summit offers breathtaking views of Kigali’s clean and expanding city and the surrounding landscape. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery. if you don’t walk uphill, you can ride a bike up the mountain, the experience is adventure on its own.
Presidential Palace Museum
Discover Rwanda’s political history at the Presidential Palace Museum. This former residence of the late President Juvenal Habyarimana is a fascinating insight into the nation’s past. The beautiful gardens and the wreckage of the presidential jet are intriguing features to explore.
Nyanza King’s Palace
Step back in time at the Nyanza King’s Palace, a reconstruction of a traditional royal residence. This historical site offers a glimpse into the country’s pre-colonial history and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Rwandan monarchy.
Kigali Public Library
For a quieter but equally enlightening experience, visit the Kigali Public Library. This well-maintained institution is a hub for learning and offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s literary culture. It’s a peaceful place to read and reflect.
Taste Rwandan Cuisine
No trip is complete without experiencing the local cuisine. Try traditional Rwandan dishes like ‘Ugali’ (a stiff porridge) and ‘Isombe’ (cassava leaves with groundnuts). Visit local restaurants, such as Heaven Restaurant or Repub Lounge, to savor these culinary delights.
Kigali is a city of contrasts, where the past intertwines with the future, and where progress and history coexist. A visit to this remarkable city with ripple Safaris: Unforgettable Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda | Discover Wildlife & Adventure Ripple Safaris promises an enriching experience. From museums and markets to historical sites and cultural centers, Kigali offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests. As you explore the top 15 things to do in Kigali, you’ll discover the soul of Rwanda, its resilience, and its vibrant culture. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of East Africa in Kigali, Rwanda.
