Kigali City Sightseeing
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Kigali City Sightseeing

Active
(49 reviews)
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With Kigali City Sightseeing, Countryside Tours-Rwanda helps you discover different parts of Kigali city with a professional and friendly local tour guide. For convenience, a pick-up in Kigali city is provided. The City sightseeing include Gahanga local market, Uzuri K&Y workshop for made in Rwanda sandals, Akagera; the river separating Kigali from the Eastern province and which will pass through Akagera National Park separating Rwanda and Tanzania. This river continues its way into Victoria lake and further to form Nile river. The city tour passes via Rebero, with the view overlooking the central part of Kigali city and the Kigali Convention Centre in the horizon and goes on to Kigali Heights-one of the modern shopping and entertainment centres, the car-free zone for, to Kigali Genocide Memorial and finally, Ubumwe Grande Hotel rooftop bar for a refreshing afternoon coffee or a local drink of choice.

With Us, You Explore Better!

Available options

Private non-shared, Flex start

Private non-shared tour: Private non-shared with others. Other aspects remain the same. We accommodate special requests within standard tour duration.<br/>Pickup included

Shared Kigali City Sightseeing

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
Vehicle and a local driver-guide
Only for morning 10h00 tours, not included for afternoon (13h00) tours.
A cup of coffee/tea or a drink (alcohol/non-alcohol) of choice at Roof-top bar
Complimentary WiFi onboard the vehicle
Pick-up and drop-off anywhere in Kigali city

Detailed itinerary

1

After pick-up, we drive sightseeing the city as we head to Gahanga local market, our first stop. The drive takes 20 min approx.

2

Walk through Gahanga, a local market in the outskirts of Kigali city. You will experience the daily local market livelihood which is different from the shopping mall style. Vendors in the market, mainly ladies, are welcoming and accommodating. In case you would like to take a picture, please ask the guide to request for you.

3

Uzuri K&Y workshop:

Note: Not available on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays

At Uzuri K&Y workshop, you will witness a group of many young girls and boys, all participating in the made in Rwanda shoe-making chain. In line with the Government of Rwanda skill enhancement policy among the youth, the workshop hosts both the apprentices and the employees. The factory employees come from the apprentice pool. The finished products from the workshop are shelved in the Uzuri K&Y showroom. Later during the tour, you will visit the showroom and you can buy a souvenir to take home and support their initiative.

4

Akagera is the river separating Kigali from the Eastern province and which will pass through Akagera National Park separating Rwanda and Tanzania. This river continues its way into Victoria lake and further to form Nile river. At Akagera river, you enjoy the beautiful scenery of its marshland and its surrounding hills. After that, we will have a stop-over at Rebero mount to enjoy the view of the central Kigali city and Kigali Conventional Centre in the horizon.

5

Visit the Uzuri K&Y showroom for the made in Rwanda sandals. Located in Kigali Heights, one of the modern Kigali city shopping and entertainment centres, the visit of Uzuri K&Y showroom to witness the finished products of the earlier visited workshop.

6

Then, get to the buffet-style lunch and enjoy as per your preferences. We estimate spending one hour approx. at the lunch place.

7

Drive for 15 min and walk through Kigali car-free zone, visit a handcraft shop before driving through Nyamirambo area, one of the oldest suburbs of Kigali city.

8
Stop 8

For 1h15 min approx., visit Kigali Genocide Memorial. Reaching the reception, the genocide memorial staff will brief you on how to go about the visit. In addition, visitors can rent an audio guide device to give you a more elaborate explanation on each stop within the memorial.

9

Unwind yourself at Ubumwe Grande Hotel rooftop bar. Share an afternoon coffee, tea or any drink (alcohol/non-alcohol) with your guide while having a magnificent view of Kigali city. As this is the last activity, the guide will de-brief and drop you off to your preferred place in Kigali City.

What's not included

Extra to one drink
Anything not explicitly included in the tour

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6
7 reviews
5★
4
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
42 reviews
5★
33
4★
9
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At stop points during the trip, it is necessary to remain within the group so as to avoid disappearances which can result into activity delay.
Shoes: Sneakers or any other comfortable shoes
Kigali car-free day: Every first and last sunday of a month, 07h00-10h00. The tour goes on but we avoid the blocked roads
PLEASE MENTION THE PICK-UP PLACE IN THE NOTES
To prevent Covid-19 transmission, Uzuri K&Y workshop for sandals IS NOT VISITED until further notice

About Kigali

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is known for its cleanliness, safety, and vibrant culture. It's a city of rolling hills, bustling markets, and a rich history, offering a unique blend of urban development and traditional Rwandan charm. The city is a gateway to Rwanda's incredible wildlife and natural beauty, making it an ideal starting point for any visit to the country.

Top Attractions

Kigali Genocide Memorial

A poignant and important site that commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The memorial includes a museum, mass graves, and a garden of remembrance.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Mount Kigali

A scenic hill offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to escape the urban hustle.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Kigali City Tower

A historic tower built by the Germans in 1907, offering a glimpse into Kigali's colonial past. The tower is surrounded by a small park and is a popular spot for photos.

Architecture 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, typically made with goat or beef, and served with a side of salad or fried potatoes.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan.

Ugali

A staple dish made from maize flour, often served with a side of vegetables, meat, or stew.

Main course Vegetarian (check for meat in accompanying dishes).

Isombe

A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, eggplant, and often served with peanuts or beans.

Main course Vegetarian (can be made vegan if needed).

Popular Activities

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park Hiking in Nyungwe National Park Boating on Lake Kivu Visiting a traditional Rwandan spa Exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial Visiting local markets and cultural centers Boating and fishing on Lake Kivu Not applicable

Best Time to Visit

June to September and December to February

These months offer the best weather for exploring Kigali and its surroundings. The dry season means fewer rain showers and more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Kinyarwanda, English, French
  • Widely spoken: English, French, Swahili
  • English: Widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations

Currency

Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kigali is one of the safest cities in Africa, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air
  • Kigali International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus

Kigali Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

SACCO buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Kigali. They are affordable and cover most of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDrive, Yango

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nyamirambo Kacyiru

Day trips

Volcanoes National Park
2-3 hours by car • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its mountain gorilla trekking. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these endangered animals in their natural habitat.

Lake Kivu
2-3 hours by car • Full day or overnight

A beautiful lake offering a variety of water activities, scenic views, and relaxation. The surrounding towns, such as Gisenyi and Kibuye, offer accommodations and dining options.

Festivals

Kigali Up • Annual, typically in July Rwanda Film Festival (HoroMbye) • Annual, typically in October

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda to enhance your cultural experience and connect with locals.
  • Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting cultural sites and markets.
  • Take advantage of Kigali's vibrant coffee culture by visiting local cafes and coffee tours.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and always ask permission before taking someone's photo.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, especially when walking alone at night.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-90
1
Childs
Age 6-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook