Full-Day Sightseeing and Exploration at the scenic Kigali City

Marvel at quaint spots in Kigali

Explore the scenic Kigali city

Spot panoramic views at Kigali

Witness scenic views at Kigali

Witness majestic views in Kigali

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Highlights

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda’s past

Enjoy stunning views of the city from Mount Kigali or another scenic spot

Explore the vibrant streets of Nyamirambo and experience local Kigali life

Wander through the bustling Kimironko Market and shop for fresh produce and Rwandan goods

Discover contemporary Rwandan art at Inema Art Center

Shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs at Caplaki Craft Village

Kigali

cultural, historical, sightseeing

Private Tour

1 Day

Easy

English, French

Description

Sign up for a full-day of discovering the heart of Rwanda with this immersive and specially curated Kigali City Tour. Venture from historical landmarks to vibrant local markets and panoramic city views for a perfect introduction to Kigali’s rich culture, tragic past, and hopeful future.

Itinerary

Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial
- Explore the exhibits that educate visitors about Rwanda’s tragic history and the 1994 genocide.
- Learn about the stories of victims, survivors, and Rwanda’s reconciliation process.
Panoramic Views of Kigali (Scenic Hill Stop)
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Kigali from one of the city’s famous hills, like Mount Kigali or Kanombe Hill, to see the city’s spread of rolling hills and valleys.
Tour of Nyamirambo Neighborhood
- Experience the vibrant, multicultural atmosphere of the Nyamirambo area.
- Visit local shops, cafes, and experience street life in one of Kigali’s oldest neighborhoods.
Shopping at Kimironko Market
- Visit Kimironko Market, one of Kigali’s largest, for a true taste of local commerce.
- Browse through fresh produce, handmade crafts, textiles, and other local goods.
Shopping for Handicrafts at Caplaki Craft Village
- Visit Caplaki Craft Village to buy handmade souvenirs and crafts directly from local artisans.
- Shop for items such as traditional baskets, wood carvings, jewelry, and textiles.
Lunch or Local Snacks (Optional)
- Enjoy a traditional Rwandan meal or snacks at one of Kigali’s local restaurants or cafes.
- Taste local dishes like ugali, brochettes (skewered meat), and fresh fruits.
Additional Items You Can Add (Optional Enhancements)
- Coffee Tasting at a Local Coffee House.
- Rwanda is famous for its coffee. You can visit a local coffee house or plantation to taste freshly brewed Rwandan coffee and learn about its production.
- Visit to the Kigali Convention Centre.
- A quick stop to take in the modern architecture of Kigali’s Convention Centre, one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
- Visit to the Presidential Palace Museum.
- Learn about Rwanda’s political history and the legacy of the country’s former presidents at the Presidential Palace Museum, which was the residence of Rwanda’s last king and first president.

What's Included

Full-day guided tour of Kigali’s top attractions

All entrance fees to museums, memorials, and markets

Comfortable transportation throughout the tour

Local guide with insights into Kigali’s history, culture, and daily life

Visit to local markets and craft villages

Bottled water during the tour

What's Excluded

Meals and Drinks (unless specified)

While the tour includes visits to local markets and cultural sites, lunch or any other meals and drinks are typically not included unless specifically stated in the package, this can be an optional add-on, depending on the client’s preferences

Personal Expenses

Purchases made at local markets, souvenir shops, or art galleries (e.g., buying handicrafts, souvenirs, or art pieces) are at the guest’s own expense

Tips and Gratuities

Tips for the guide or driver are not included, it’s customary to offer a tip if you are satisfied with the service, but this is optional and up to the guest’s discretion

Optional Coffee or Tea Tasting

While some tours may stop at a local coffee shop or plantation for a tasting experience, this is typically an optional add-on and not included in the standard tour price

Optional Entry Fees to Additional Sites

Some additional attractions (e.g., Presidential Palace Museum or other minor museums) may require an additional entry fee, which is not included in the basic tour package

Accommodation (for day trips only)

Since this is a one-day tour, overnight accommodation is not included, if a guest wants an extended stay or if the tour extends beyond one day, accommodation costs would need to be arranged separately

Transportation to Kigali (for those arriving independently)

The tour package typically assumes that guests are already in Kigali or will be picked up from a designated location (e.g., a hotel or airport), transportation to Kigali from other parts of Rwanda or other countries is not typically covered unless pre-arranged

Insurance

Travel insurance, including medical insurance or coverage for accidents during the tour, is not included, guests are advised to arrange their own travel insurance prior to the tour

Know Before You Go

1. Understand the Local Culture & Etiquette

Respect for Rwandan History: Rwanda has a deep history, especially related to the 1994 genocide. Many sites, like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, are poignant and solemn places. Show respect by being mindful of your behavior and the tone of conversation around sensitive topics.

Greetings: Rwandans are friendly and often greet with a handshake, or sometimes a hug among friends. It’s customary to greet people politely with a “Muraho” (Hello) or “Amakuru” (How are you?).

Modesty in Dress: Rwandans tend to dress modestly, so it’s a good idea to avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting cultural sites or religious areas.

2. Currency and Payments

Rwandan Franc (RWF): The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF), though U.S. dollars are accepted in many places, especially in tourist areas. However, smaller purchases like street food, market items, and tips often require Rwandan Francs.

ATMs and Currency Exchange: ATMs are available in Kigali, and you can exchange money at banks or official exchange offices. It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of local currency for small purchases or markets.

Credit Cards: While many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses accept credit cards, not all local markets or small shops do. Always have cash available for such purchases.

3. Language

Kinyarwanda is the most widely spoken language in Rwanda. However, most people in Kigali also speak French and English, particularly in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda, such as “Muraho” (Hello) or “Amakuru” (How are you?), can be appreciated by locals.

4. Transportation

Getting Around Kigali: Kigali is relatively compact, and the city is generally easy to navigate by car or walking. Your tour will provide transportation, but if you’re exploring on your own, you can use taxis, motorcycles (known as “moto-taxis”), or ride-hailing apps like Yego Cabs or MOVE

Traffic: Kigali has moderate traffic, especially during rush hours. Plan accordingly if you need to catch a flight or transport after your tour.

5. Safety and Health

Safety: Kigali is considered a very safe city compared to many others in the region. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft (such as pickpocketing) can happen, so keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets.

Health: Rwanda is a malaria-endemic country, so it’s advisable to take malaria prophylaxis before traveling. Always use insect repellent, especially in the evenings. Carry hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently.

Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers:

Ambulance: 912

Police: 112

Fire Department: 913

6. Weather and Climate

Weather: Kigali enjoys a mild, temperate climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It can get cooler in the evening or early morning, so packing a light jacket or sweater is a good idea.

Rainy Season: Rwanda experiences two rainy seasons: from March to May and October to December. While rain isn’t typically heavy all day, it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella or rain jacket during these months.

7. Time Zone

Time Zone: Rwanda follows Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC +2 hours. There’s no daylight saving time.

8. Electrical Outlets

Electricity: Rwanda uses 230V, with Type C and Type J plugs. Bring a travel adapter if you plan to charge your electronics. The power supply in Kigali is generally reliable, but it’s a good idea to have backup power for your devices, especially if you’re taking a lot of photos.

9. Health & Hygiene

Water: It’s advisable to drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water is not always safe for tourists to consume. Keep a bottle of water with you during the tour to stay hydrated.

Restrooms: Restrooms in hotels and tourist sites are typically clean, but public restrooms in markets or local areas may not always have toilet paper or soap. Carrying tissues and hand sanitizer is a good idea.

10. Local Customs & Tips

Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Rwanda. For services such as guides, drivers, or at restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included in the bill.

Respectful Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly in rural areas or during cultural visits. Some people may ask for a small fee if you want to take their picture.

11. Environmental Responsibility

Plastic Bag Ban: Rwanda is a leader in environmental conservation and has a strict ban on plastic bags. Be sure to pack any necessary items in reusable bags or containers to avoid bringing plastic into the country.

12. Genocide History Sensitivity

Kigali Genocide Memorial: Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a deeply emotional experience. The memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance, and it’s important to approach this visit with respect and a somber attitude.

By being mindful of these key points, you’ll be prepared to fully enjoy your 1-Day Kigali City Tour and appreciate all that this remarkable city has to offer.

What To Bring

1.Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the day’s weather. Kigali is relatively warm but can get cooler in the evening, so layering is a good option.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the tour involves walking around markets, neighborhoods, and historical sites.

2.Hat or Sunglasses

To protect yourself from the sun, bring a hat or a pair of sunglasses, especially if you plan on visiting outdoor areas like Mount Kigali or Nyamirambo.

3.Sunscreen

Rwanda enjoys a tropical climate, so sunscreen with a high SPF is recommended to protect your skin from sun exposure, particularly during outdoor activities.

4.Camera/Smartphone

Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views, local life, and historical sites throughout the city. Kigali offers many photo-worthy moments, especially from the hills and at cultural sites.

5.Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, so bring a reusable water bottle. Some tours may offer bottled water, but it’s always a good idea to carry your own.

6.Personal Identification (ID)

Bring a copy of your ID or passport, especially if you are visiting any memorial or historical site that might require identification for entry.

7.Cash (Rwandan Francs or USD)

While credit cards are accepted at some venues, cash is often needed for purchases at markets or small shops. Rwandan Francs (RWF) are widely used, but U.S. dollars are also accepted in many places.

Meeting Point

Any place in kigali

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -

Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price

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Full-Day Sightseeing and Exploration at the scenic Kigali City

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial

Panoramic Views of Kigali (Scenic Hill Stop)

Tour of Nyamirambo Neighborhood

Shopping at Kimironko Market

Shopping for Handicrafts at Caplaki Craft Village

Lunch or Local Snacks (Optional)

Additional Items You Can Add (Optional Enhancements)

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

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Full-Day Sightseeing and Exploration at the scenic Kigali City

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial

Panoramic Views of Kigali (Scenic Hill Stop)

Tour of Nyamirambo Neighborhood

Shopping at Kimironko Market

Shopping for Handicrafts at Caplaki Craft Village

Lunch or Local Snacks (Optional)

Additional Items You Can Add (Optional Enhancements)

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

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