Kigali City Tour with Genocide Museum, Markets, and Art Galleries

Kigali Genocide Memorial - The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a poignant tribute to the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This important site is the final resting place for over 250,000 individuals, serving as a powerful reminder of the tragic events that occurred during that dark chapter in Rwanda’s history.

The memorial not only honors those who lost their lives but also functions as an educational center, promoting peace and reconciliation. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the causes, events, and aftermath of the genocide, fostering understanding and ensuring that future generations remember this crucial part of Rwanda’s past.

Niyo Art Gallery - Explore two of the finest art galleries in town (NIYO and INEMA) and engage with local artists.

These carefully chosen venues showcase the vibrant local art scene and provide a unique opportunity to interact directly with talented artists from the area. Through guided tours and interactive sessions, visitors gain insight into the creative processes, inspirations, and stories behind the captivating artworks on display.

This immersive experience not only supports the local artistic community but also offers guests a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.

Kimironko Market - Explore Kimironko Market, the largest open-air marketplace in Kigali, Rwanda. This vibrant hub offers a diverse array of local handicrafts, fresh produce, and various meat products. Visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere, interacting with local vendors and experiencing the authentic flavors and colors of Rwandan culture.

The market is divided into several sections, each specializing in different goods:

Handicrafts: Browse through a wide selection of traditional Rwandan arts and crafts, including intricately woven baskets, colorful textiles, and unique souvenirs.

Grocery stores and meat shops.

A visit to Kimironko Market provides not only a shopping experience but also a cultural journey, allowing tourists to engage with local life and support the community’s economy. It’s an essential stop for anyone seeking to fully appreciate Rwanda’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant daily life.

Nyamirambo Women’s Center (NWC) - Take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town, immersing in its rich history and vibrant culture.

The journey leads to the inspiring Nyamirambo Women’s Centre, where insights into local empowerment initiatives and traditional crafts are gained.

To complete the cultural experience, indulge in an exploration of Rwanda’s diverse and flavorful cuisine, sampling authentic dishes that tantalize the taste buds and reflect the country’s culinary heritage.

Question Coffee Gishushu - During the tour, take a brief respite at Question Coffee Gishushu. This stop offers an excellent opportunity to savor the rich flavors of authentic Rwandan coffee. Guests will have the chance to experience the unique taste profile that has made Rwandan coffee renowned worldwide, while also learning about the country’s coffee culture and production methods.

Banana Beer Experience or Cultural Village and Dian Fossey Museum

Red Rocks Rwanda - The tour begins at the Red Rocks Community Center, where guests are immersed in an authentic cultural experience. Here, visitors have the unique opportunity to participate in the traditional banana beer-making process, a cherished local custom. This hands-on activity provides insight into Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and traditional brewing techniques.

In addition to the banana beer experience, the community center offers a variety of engaging cultural activities. These may include traditional dance performances, storytelling sessions, or craft workshops, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan culture and traditions. This immersive start to the tour sets the stage for a memorable and culturally enriching journey through Rwanda.

Iby’iwacu Cultural Village - Visit Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a vibrant community-based initiative that offers an immersive experience into traditional Rwandan culture. This authentic village showcases local customs, crafts, and performances, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from the indigenous people. Through interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities, guests gain valuable insights into Rwanda’s rich heritage and the daily lives of its rural communities.

Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund - The Ellen Campus, nestled in the foothills of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, was created to accelerate scientific research and on-the-ground conservation work in the Volcanoes National Park, which is the natural habitat of the mountain gorillas.

The journey from Kigali city to the park takes around 3 hours. A lunch break is taken in Musanze town before checking in at the lodge and visiting the museum.

Gorilla Trekking and Sunset Dinner at Lake Kivu

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda - Briefing for the trackers begins at 7.00 am, and vehicles start transporting gorilla trackers to several gorilla trek starting points. If you don’t turn up at the appointed time, you risk invalidating your permit and having to pay again. Guests are allocated a gorilla family on the very day of tracking. Those who feel physically weak are allocated the nearest groups that only require at least an hour to find. Hikes in the mountains can last anywhere from 1 hour to 4 hours, depending on the family allocated to your group and their location. The journey back can take just as long, but you are often carried along by the euphoria you feel seeing the gorillas!

Lake Kivu - After the thrilling gorilla trek, journey to Lake Kivu in Gisenyi, just an hour from Volcanoes National Park. This serene oasis offers the perfect respite after the wildlife adventure.

Lake Kivu provides a stunning backdrop for relaxation. As day turns to night, guests are treated to a mesmerizing sunset, best enjoyed over a lakeside dinner.

This transition from mountainous terrain to peaceful lakeside exemplifies Rwanda’s diverse beauty. It combines wildlife adventure with tranquil relaxation, creating an unforgettable Rwandan experience.

Coffee Tour and Fishing Experience and Boat Cruise on Lake Kivu

Kinunu Guest House - After enjoying a hearty breakfast, embark on an enriching journey to Kinunu village for an immersive coffee tour experience. This excursion offers guests a unique opportunity to explore Rwanda’s renowned coffee culture and learn about the intricate process of coffee production from bean to cup.

Lake Kivu Rwanda - Following the coffee adventure, proceed to the picturesque town of Kibuye, nestled along the shores of Lake Kivu. Here, guests can indulge in a delightful fishing experience and a scenic boat cruise. As the tranquil waters are navigated, explore the lake’s stunning islands, including the captivating Napoleon Island, home to a fascinating colony of bats.

Throughout the journey, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, characterized by lush green hills and vibrant banana plantations. This excursion seamlessly blends cultural immersion, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, providing a memorable and diverse experience for guests.

Canopy Walkway in Nyungwe NP or Tea Plantation Tour

Nyungwe Forest National Park - After enjoying a morning breakfast, continue the adventure to Nyungwe Forest. Here, there is the opportunity to participate in an engaging tea plantation tour or embark on an exhilarating hike along the canopy trail. These activities offer unique experiences that showcase the natural beauty and rich agricultural heritage of Rwanda.

The tea plantation tour provides insight into Rwanda’s thriving tea industry, allowing visitors to learn about the cultivation and processing of this important export. Meanwhile, the canopy trail offers a thrilling perspective of the forest from above, giving adventurers a chance to observe the diverse flora and fauna of Nyungwe from a bird’s-eye view.

King’s Palace Museum and Return to Kigali

Ethnographic Museum Rwanda - After enjoying breakfast, return to Kigali, making two significant stops along the way. The first destination is the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, where immersion in Rwanda’s rich culture and traditions occurs. This enlightening experience provides valuable insights into the country’s heritage.

King’s Palace Museum - Following the cultural exploration, proceed to the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. This visit offers a captivating journey through Rwanda’s royal history, providing an in-depth look at the monarchy’s role in shaping the nation. The museum’s exhibits and architecture combine to create a truly insightful and memorable cultural experience.

Akagera National Park and Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Ihema

Akagera National Park - The safari adventure begins with a scenic drive to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s hidden gem of biodiversity. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable lodge nestled within the park’s lush surroundings.

Lake Ihema - As the day winds down, embark on a breathtaking sunset boat cruise on Lake Ihema, one of the park’s crown jewels.

Gliding across the tranquil waters, enjoy an up-close encounter with the park’s diverse wildlife. Massive Nile crocodiles bask on the shoreline, while pods of hippos grunt and snort as they surface nearby. The lake’s shores teem with a vibrant array of birdlife, from majestic fish eagles to colorful kingfishers darting above the water.

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a spectacular array of oranges and purples, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This magical experience not only offers a unique perspective of Akagera’s ecosystem but also sets the stage for the exciting safari adventures that await in the coming days.

Safari Game Drive in Akagera National Park and Return to Kigali

Akagera National Park - After a hearty breakfast, embark on a safari game drive through the diverse landscapes of Akagera NP. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to witness wildlife up close. Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of animals, including majestic zebras, towering elephants, graceful antelopes, powerful buffalos, and playful baboons.

As midday approaches, pause for a picturesque picnic lunch by one of the park’s serene lakes. This tranquil setting provides the perfect backdrop to observe crocodiles and hippos. The park serves as a haven for over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for both casual nature enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers alike.

In the afternoon, the journey continues as the northern part of the park is ventured into. This area is characterized by its lush, verdant plains, offering a stark contrast to the southern savannah. The changing landscape not only showcases the park’s ecological diversity but also increases the chances of spotting elephants.

• Gorilla and Safari permits
• Breakfast
• Certified guides (English and French)
• Transportation including hotel or airport pickup and dropoff

• Lunch or Dinner available at the expense of the visitor

This expertly designed safari offers an exceptional blend of Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, wildlife adventures, and cultural experiences. Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore Rwanda’s marvels.

Begin in Kigali, a vibrant and pristine city steeped in history. Journey into the untamed Virunga mountains for a unique gorilla trekking adventure. Discover Nyungwe Forest, a biodiversity haven filled with exotic wildlife.

Unwind on the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, where adventure meets peace. Throughout the safari, enjoy comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations. This thoughtfully curated tour highlights Rwanda’s natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, ensuring thrilling discoveries from misty mountains to tranquil lakeshores.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.