Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant city of green hillsides, busy streets and bustling markets. It is a popular place for tourists to start their gorilla trekking adventures from but many leave for their trekking destinations once they have visited the Genocide Memorial and do not explore current day Kigali any further.
No visit to Kigali would be complete, of course, without experiencing this intensely powerful memorial, in particular in this the 25th year since this mass genocide, but there are so many projects and initiatives which we would also thoroughly recommend.
Below are just a few of our absolute favourites which demonstrate the re-growth of this city and the resilience and ingenuity of its people. Get in touch to find out more and for us to help you plan the perfect itinerary for you.
Nyamirambo Women’s Center was set up in 2007 by 18 local women and offers visitors a really personal insight into daily life in this community.
Step behind the scenes and experience the real Kigali by taking a guided walking tour of one of Kigali’s oldest neighbourhoods. Weave your way through the streets, stop in at a tailors, check out a local hairdressers (maybe even have a free braid!), visit a family compound where you can try your hand at pounding cassava leaves and finish it all off with a traditional lunch back at the center.
If cooking is your thing, then the masterclass with local cook, Aminatha, is something not to be missed – from buying the produce at local markets to preparing the food back at her home, you will get to experience every step first hand.
Inema Art Center was founded by 2 brothers and self-taught painters in 2012 and is bursting with creativity and the work of talented local artists. This center provides the opportunity for 10 artists in residence to explore their creative talents and is a really inspiring place to visit. Chat to the artists, view the amazing artwork and if you are there on a Thursday you can even enjoy Happy Hour and taste their signature cocktails!
Question Coffee Café and Training Center is definitely the place to visit to taste the very best coffee that Rwanda has to offer and you can even take part in a masterclass without even leaving their café! With a thriving coffee garden in the café you will learn all about coffee production, harvest and roast your own batch and then under the expert guidance of the Question Coffee baristas brew and prepare your own cup of coffee!
1000 Hills Distillery is East Africa’s first craft distillery and offers tours of its whisky, rum, gin and vodka making process. It is a fun place to visit with stunning views and the tacos and cocktails on the terrace are just too good to miss!
Kimironko Market Place is one of the busiest markets in town and a visit here is definitely an assault on your senses! It is busy and lively with stalls stretching in all directions and is a great place to hone your negotiating skills and have something made up from the incredible choice of Kitenge fabrics on offer.
We hope we have given you some food for thought…. get in touch and let’s start planning your perfect day in Kigali!