1 Day Kigali City Tour

DAY 1:Kigali City Tour

Things to do and see while on the Kigali City tour

Welcome to our 1-day Kigali city tour, where you’ll explore the vibrant capital of Rwanda, known for its clean streets, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. In this tour, you will visit various places that showcase the city’s history, culture, and traditions.

Kandt House Museum

First on the itinerary is the Kandt House Museum, which was the residence of Dr. Richard Kandt, the first European explorer to settle in Rwanda. The museum features displays that showcase Rwanda’s colonial past and the life of Dr. Kandt. Here, you will learn about the country’s history, traditions, and cultural heritage.

Natural History Museum

Next up is the Natural History Museum, where you will learn about Rwanda’s diverse flora and fauna, including its geology, ecology, and biodiversity. The museum features exhibits that display the country’s natural wonders, including mountains, forests, and wildlife. You’ll also learn about the efforts being made to protect the environment and wildlife in Rwanda.

Presidential Palace Museum

Afterward, you will visit the Presidential Palace Museum, which was the residence of the late President Juvénal Habyarimana and his family.

The museum is a somber reminder of the tragic events that took place in 1994, as it has been preserved in the state it was on the night of April 6th, 1994, when the plane carrying Habyarimana was shot down, triggering the genocide. You will see the wreckage of the plane and the rooms where the president and his family lived.

Kigali Genocide Memorial Site

From there, we will head to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Site, which is a place for remembrance, education, and healing. The memorial honors the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities that took place. Here, you will learn about the events leading up to the genocide, the tragic consequences that followed, and the efforts being made to promote reconciliation and unity in Rwanda.

Campaign Against Genocide Museum

Next, we will visit the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of the events that led up to the genocide, including the propaganda campaigns that were used to fuel hatred and division. You will also learn about the efforts being made to promote peace and unity in Rwanda, including the government’s programs to promote national reconciliation and economic development. After a busy morning of visiting museums, it’s time to take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a major city restaurant or at Hotel des Mille Collines, also known as the Hotel Rwanda. This iconic hotel was the site of refuge for many during the genocide and was made famous by the movie “Hotel Rwanda.”

Kimironko Market

After lunch, we will visit the Kimironko Market, which is the largest open-air market in Kigali. Here, you will find a vast array of local products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, textiles, and crafts.The market is a vibrant hub of activity and provides an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals and experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kigali.

Mount Kigali

Next, we will head to Mount Kigali, which offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. You can take a leisurely hike up the mountain, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the base. Mount Kigali is a perfect place to relax and reflect on the events of the day.

Kigali Convention Center

Finally, we will visit the Kigali Convention Center, which is a state-of-the-art conference and events venue that is home to some of the most important events in Rwanda’s calendar. The center features a stunning architectural design and showcases Rwanda’s commitment to economic development and progress.Lake Nyarutarama

Last but not least, we will visit Lake Nyarutarama, which is a beautiful lake located just outside the city. Here, you can take a relaxing boat ride or simply enjoy sight of species like the African Hobby, Bat Hawk, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater among others.