Top Things to do in Kigali
What are the top things to do in Kigali? Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda’s stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world. There are many things to do in Kigali and Rwanda, is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains.
Travellers come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the magnificent gorillas, yet there is so much more to see, experience and things to do in Kigali.
Here is a list of the top things to do when you are in Kigali, Rwanda
1. Visit Question Coffee
Question Coffee Cafe in Kigali is on the top of our list on things to do in Kigali. It is a state-of-the-art specialty coffee cafe located in Kigali. Everyone flocks there in search of an amazing cup of coffee, whether they’d like to enjoy it in their spacious cafe or take it to go. Question Coffee is the result of many people’s hard work, from the inspiring farmers who produce the ripe cherries to the barista who pulls the perfect espresso shot. Their coffee is produced by professionals at every step of the supply chain, and supports the livelihoods of everyone involved. For those interested in an immersive, one-of-a-kind coffee experience, they offer an amazing master class of the coffee supply chain that doesn’t require taking a step beyond the cafe.
2. Ride a horse on Mt.Kigali
Mt.Kigali is one of the highest hills of Kigali and consequently offers some of the best views of the city and surrounding area. Fazenda Shenga, an outdoor recreational center, is conveniently located atop the mount and offers 1-hour horse trail rides throughout nature. It faces North west and it’s special location offers beautiful views of the valley and fresh air all year round. It’s almost 17-20 minutes away from the city. A fun activity for of all ages wanting to spend few hours outdoor, with family and friends.
3. Visit Kimironko Market
Kimironko Market, located in the Kimironko neighborhood of Kigali, is the busiest market in town. Of all the things to do in Kigali, this place is unique. Vendors here sell produce from Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, while locals from all over the city head here to stock up on fruit, vegetables, fabric, clothing, shoes, and general household necessities. This is the place to experience Rwanda at its liveliest and why we have it on our list on things to do in Kigali.
4. Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial
Inaugurated in 2004, the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. This memorial also serves to educate about how the Genocide against the Tutsi took shape and examines genocide in the 20th century. 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. It’s an important mark to visit, however, we do warn you, it is very heavy.
5. Visit the Inema Arts Center
The Inema Arts Center is a contemporary art center in Kigali, founded in 2012 by two self-taught painter brothers. If you’re interested in seeing a modern intake on traditional African crafts in various mediums, there is always a mix of artists on display during the weeks. There are also multiple events such as art-yoga classes, concerts, and dance performances.
6. Visit Rwanda Art Museum
The “Rwanda Art Museum” in Kanombe is located in 4 kilometers from Kigali International Airport. This former Presidential Palace Museum changed into Rwanda Art Museum effective from 18th May 2018.
The new museum displays contemporary artworks produced by both Rwandan and international artists. The aim is to provide to our visitors’ insight into the originality of Rwandan creativity, arts development from centuries up-to-date, whilst not overlooking traditional or modern imaginations.
7. Drink at a milk bar
Kuruhimbik is one of Kigali’s most popular bars, and it doesn’t serve a drop of liquor. Instead, milk is on tap. Located in the city’s Kimisagara neighborhood, on a dirt road just a few minutes away from a bustling market, Kuruhimbi is a milk bar and Rwandan stalwart. Despite its popularity, Kuruhimbi is one of the last of its kind: With the growth of Inyange Milk Zone, a corporate milk bar chain, local milk bars are becoming relics of the country’s past.
8. Dine in Poivre Noir Kigali
A belgian/french cuisine bistro restaurant – Opened in 2015, the Bistronomie has since established a reputation as one of the best restaurants in the country, under chef-owner, John Goffin serving Belgian-French cuisine in Kigali. Pre-booking is required at Poivre Noir Kigali.
9. Dine in Soy Asian Table
One of the best south east asian dishes located in the heart of Kigali – Pre-booking is required at Soy Asian Table.
10. Dine in Meza Malonga in Kigali
Meza: “ table” in Bantu language
MEZA Malonga invites you to share an Afro-fusion cuisine experience in Kigali, Rwanda.
They are storytellers of the history of the people and lands behind each ingredient. The lush District of Musanze, Rwanda is the soil of our homegrown fruits and vegetables. With Maasai, Bantu, Zulu influences and beyond, Dieuveil Malonga’s cuisine reveals the splendor, uniqueness and complementarity of African nations.
With culture and travel at the core of our inspiration, our curated gastronomic experiences are an invitation to a journey without borders throughout Africa. Pre-booking is required at Meza Malonga.
