Top things to do in Kigali City during your visit in Rwanda
Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, is known for being one of the quietest, safest, cleanest, and most organized cities in Africa. It serves as the heart of Rwanda’s arts, transportation, and culture. Often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills” because of its natural beauty, Rwanda’s charm is reflected in Kigali as well. With over one million residents, Kigali is centrally located, making it easy to reach from Rwanda’s neighboring countries.
Though Rwanda experienced a tragic past with the 1994 genocide, the country has since rebuilt itself and stands strong socially, economically, and politically. The people of Rwanda have shown resilience, and there is a strong sense of ownership, unity, and community. Today, Kigali is a city of transformation and progress, but many tourists still only see it as a transit point on their way to other attractions like gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and volcano hikes. However, Kigali has much more to offer, and visitors should take time to explore its unique attractions. Below are some of the top things to do in Kigali:
1. Climb Mount Kigali
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, climbing Mount Kigali is a great option. Despite being called a mountain, it’s actually the highest hill in Kigali, standing at about 6,000 feet. The hike is relatively easy due to the gentle slopes, and the starting point is in Nyamirambo, near Sun City Hotel. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and opportunities to take beautiful photos. While you’re there, you can visit the Fazenda Sengha horse ranch for horseback riding or stop at Mera Neza bar for food and drinks. There’s even a barbecue area with a platform overlooking Kigali.
2. Visit Art Centers and Craft Shops
A visit to Kigali wouldn’t be complete without exploring its vibrant art scene. One of the best places to experience Rwandan art is the Inema Art Center. Opened in 2012 by brothers Innocent Nkurunziza and Emmanuel Nkuranga, the center showcases the works of some of the country’s top artists, as well as international guest artists. Visitors can watch artists at work, participate in dancing or drumming lessons, or even join a yoga class. On Thursdays, the center hosts music nights where visitors can enjoy art and music while sipping drinks from the bar.
For unique jewelry, check out Abraham Konga Collections, which turns discarded materials into beautiful earrings and necklaces. You can also visit GoKigali Boutique at the Marriott Hotel, where you’ll find high-quality jewelry, shoes, books, and souvenirs like baskets and clothes. For more affordable items, head to the Nyamirambo Women’s Centre to shop for local crafts.
3. Explore Shopping Malls
Kigali has several large shopping malls for those who want to indulge in some retail therapy. Nakumatt supermarket at the Union Trade Centre is one of the largest in the city. You can find almost anything you need there, from groceries to household items.
4. Try Skydiving
Skydiving is a thrilling activity that was introduced to Kigali recently and has quickly gained popularity. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this might be the perfect activity for you. Jumping out of a small plane and parachuting to the ground is sure to get your heart racing. Before the jump, instructors will guide you through safety procedures, including how to use the parachute. You’ll even have an instructor accompany you during the jump for added safety.
5. Go Horseback Riding
Kigali offers horseback riding experiences through its beautiful countryside. You can enjoy riding around Mount Kigali with breathtaking views of the city. Horseback riding is available at Fazenda Sengha and Rugende Park. Beginners are welcome, and practice sessions are offered to help participants get comfortable handling the horses before setting off on the ride.
6. Play Golf
If you enjoy golfing, head over to the Kigali Golf Club in Nyarutarama. The club has a beautiful 18-hole course and allows non-members to play for a small fee. You can also rent golf equipment and bags on-site.
7. Go Fishing at Lake Muhazi
Lake Muhazi is a peaceful spot about an hour’s drive from Kigali, perfect for fishing enthusiasts. The lake stretches for about 32 kilometers and has several fishing areas where you can cast your line from a boat or canoe. The scenic surroundings make it a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
8. Visit the Kigali Convention Center
The Kigali Convention Center is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Located next to the Radisson Blu Hotel, it was designed to resemble a beehive and looks particularly stunning when lit up at night. The design of the center was inspired by Rwanda’s royal palace in Nyanza.
9. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is an important historical site that honors the memory of over 700,000 victims of the 1994 genocide. The memorial not only serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed but also as a symbol of hope and unity for the Rwandan people. Visiting the memorial can be emotional, but it offers valuable insight into Rwanda’s history and the impact of the genocide. The exhibitions cover Rwanda’s colonial past and the events that led to the genocide. There are also sections that explore other atrocities in history, such as the Holocaust and the genocides in Armenia and Cambodia. Plan to spend at least two hours at the memorial to fully absorb the information from the exhibits, videos, and audio recordings.
