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16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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10 Best Places for day trip from Kigali

Day Trips from Kigali: An Exciting Itinerary

Discover the wonders of Rwanda with a series of captivating day trips from Kigali, each offering a unique perspective on the country's diverse attractions. Begin your journey with a visit to Lake Kivu, known for its shimmering waters and idyllic lakeside towns, perfect for unwinding or partaking in adventurous water sports. Next, explore the lush landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, where you'll have the unforgettable experience of trekking through the mountains to observe majestic gorillas in their natural habitat.

Continue your adventure at Nyungwe National Park, home to an ancient rainforest teeming with biodiversity. Enjoy canopy walks and encounters with chimpanzees, alongside a myriad of bird species. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the savannahs of Akagera National Park, offering a classic safari experience with the opportunity to view the Big Five amidst stunning landscapes and sparkling lakes.

For a more relaxed outing, Muhazi Lake provides a perfect retreat, where you can enjoy fishing, bird watching, and serene boat rides. History and culture enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Huye Town, where the National Museum of Rwanda offers deep insights into the country's rich heritage.

Don't miss the chance to explore the royal past at the Nyanza Royal Palace, which showcases traditional architecture and royal history. Lastly, pay homage at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant site dedicated to remembering and educating about the 1994 genocide, fostering reflection and understanding.

Conclude your itinerary with a cultural immersion at the Inema Arts Center, a vibrant hub celebrating contemporary African art and creativity, where you can enjoy exhibitions, workshops, and live performances that highlight Rwanda's artistic flair.


Recommended Activities

  • Lake Kivu offers stunning views and the opportunity to relax by the serene waters, partake in water sports, and experience the charming lakeside towns.
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    Volcanoes National Park

    Volcanoes National Park is home to the majestic mountain gorillas, offering a unique trekking experience to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
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    Nyungwe National Park

    Nyungwe National Park boasts one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, providing a rich biodiversity, canopy walks, and the chance to see chimpanzees and numerous bird species.
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    Akagera National Park

    Akagera National Park offers a classic safari experience with diverse wildlife including elephants, lions, and rhinoceroses, and features beautiful savannah landscapes and lakes.
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    Muhazi Lake

    Muhazi Lake is a tranquil spot for relaxation, bird watching, and recreational activities such as fishing and canoeing, set amidst picturesque surroundings.
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    Gorillas at Volcanoes

    Visiting the gorillas at Volcanoes National Park presents a rare opportunity to encounter and observe endangered mountain gorillas up close in their natural environment.
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  • Huye Town is known for its historical and cultural significance, including the National Museum of Rwanda, which provides insights into the country's heritage and traditions.
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    Nyanza Royal Palace

    The Nyanza Royal Palace is an important cultural site that offers a glimpse into Rwanda's royal history and traditional architecture, with restored palaces and exhibits.
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    Kigali Genocide Memorial

    The Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as a poignant and educational site dedicated to honoring the victims of the 1994 genocide, providing historical context and promoting peace and reconciliation.
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    Inema Arts Center

    Inema Arts Center showcases contemporary African art and creativity, offering a vibrant cultural experience with exhibitions, workshops, and live performances that celebrate local talent.
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Restaurants

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    Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel

    4.3
    $$$$

    Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel

    Heaven offers a unique blend of international and Rwandan cuisine, with a focus on farm-to-table freshness, complemented by stunning views of Kigali city.
    4.3
    $$$$
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    Repub Lounge

    4.5
    $$$$

    Repub Lounge

    Repub Lounge is known for its fusion of traditional Rwandan dishes and modern twists, providing an authentic local dining experience with a lively atmosphere.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Question Coffee Cafe

    4.5
    $$$$

    Question Coffee Cafe

    This cafe offers an unusual experience by allowing visitors to taste locally sourced Rwandan coffee while learning about the coffee production process directly from farmers.
    4.5
    $$$$
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  • The Hut

    The Hut is a hidden gem offering a diverse menu that blends African, Asian, and European flavors in a beautifully decorated setting.
    4.2
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    Inzora Rooftop Cafe

    4.2
    $$$$

    Inzora Rooftop Cafe

    Located atop a bookstore, this cafe is ideal for book lovers who enjoy sipping coffee with panoramic views of Kigali, offering an unusual yet serene atmosphere.
    4.2
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    The Retreat by Heaven

    The Retreat by Heaven

    An eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel, offering exquisite service, sustainable practices, and a serene setting in the heart of Kigali.
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    Gorillas Nest Lodge

    4.7

    Gorillas Nest Lodge

    Nestled amidst the lush forests near Volcanoes National Park, this lodge provides luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
    4.7
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    Nyungwe House

    4.7

    Nyungwe House

    Situated on a working tea plantation, this extraordinary hotel offers a unique immersion into nature with luxury accommodations and stunning views of Nyungwe Forest.
    4.7
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    Akagera Game Lodge

    4.5

    Akagera Game Lodge

    Located within Akagera National Park, this lodge offers a rare chance to stay amidst wildlife with stunning views of Lake Ihema and safari opportunities.
    4.5
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    Cormoran Lodge

    4.3

    Cormoran Lodge

    A unique accommodation on the shores of Lake Kivu, offering rustic wooden chalets and spectacular lake views, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
    4.3
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Brave Rival

    Brave Rival

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1570.11 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Asomvel

    Asomvel

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1570.11 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    FM

    FM

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1570.11 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Sep 2025
    Picture for FM
  • Event Icon

    Ricky Warwick & The Fighting Hearts

    Ricky Warwick & The Fighting Hearts

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1570.11 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Nwocr Livefest 4 2025

    Nwocr Livefest 4 2025

    The event will take place at KK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton.
    Map IconKK's Steel Mill in Wolverhampton (1570.11 mi)
    Calendar Icon27 Sep 2025
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    I had never been to Africa when I went to <strong>Rwanda</strong> for work last year. I loved it and look forward to going back with my family. First off, it is very safe and ...

    r/travel on Reddit: Going on holiday that you dont really fancy? Rwanda

    I had never been to Africa when I went to <strong>Rwanda</strong> for work last year. I loved it and look forward to going back with my family. First off, it is very safe and ...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi ladies and gents, This year I am planning to spend the summer in <strong>Rwanda</strong>. I am originally from the UK and I was wondering what the British Pound

    r/Rwanda on Reddit: Looking for advice before I travel to Rwanda

    Hi ladies and gents, This year I am planning to spend the summer in <strong>Rwanda</strong>. I am originally from the UK and I was wondering what the British Pound

    /r/Rwanda
  • Reddit Icon

    Doing a 1 day safari trip to Akagera. The genocide museum, restaurants, and the local market are on our list. ... this is a very tense political back-end between the DRC and R...

    5 days in (Kigali) Rwanda - what must we do?

    Doing a 1 day safari trip to Akagera. The genocide museum, restaurants, and the local market are on our list. ... this is a very tense political back-end between the DRC and R...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    I&#x27;ll be in <strong>Kigali</strong> for the next week. Are there <strong>day</strong> <strong>trips</strong> to see the gorillas that leave from there? Share ... It&#x27;s...

    r/Rwanda on Reddit: Gorilla day tours

    I&#x27;ll be in <strong>Kigali</strong> for the next week. Are there <strong>day</strong> <strong>trips</strong> to see the gorillas that leave from there? Share ... It&#x27;s...

    /r/Rwanda
  • Reddit Icon

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice . Hello! I am a 20 year old male from the USA hoping to visit Rwanda in the near future. I didn't want to post this on a traveler's subred...

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice

    Rwanda Travel Suggestions and Advice . Hello! I am a 20 year old male from the USA hoping to visit Rwanda in the near future. I didn't want to post this on a traveler's subred...

    /r/Rwanda
  • Reddit Icon

    We spent a day hiking (canapy) and a day on Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali. If you can, try to spend 2 days at Akagera. The extra day allowed us to do a "night drive" in...

    Advice on my trip to Rwanda

    We spent a day hiking (canapy) and a day on Lake Kivu before returning to Kigali. If you can, try to spend 2 days at Akagera. The extra day allowed us to do a "night drive" in...

    /r/Rwanda
  • Reddit Icon

    How was driving a vehicle in Rwanda? I am planning a trip and having a driver the whole time is really expensive. To do gorillas, chimps, akagera, and a 4 day bike tour along ...

    Tips from two weeks in Rwanda (Sept 2023)

    How was driving a vehicle in Rwanda? I am planning a trip and having a driver the whole time is really expensive. To do gorillas, chimps, akagera, and a 4 day bike tour along ...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    I am planning a bucket list <strong>trip</strong> to go mountain gorilla trekking. Were looking for a planned tour that ideally visits Bwindi and Volcanoes parks for

    r/travel on Reddit: Tour Advice: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

    I am planning a bucket list <strong>trip</strong> to go mountain gorilla trekking. Were looking for a planned tour that ideally visits Bwindi and Volcanoes parks for

    /r/travel

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    TOTO - Africa

    TOTO - Africa

    This classic hit by Toto evokes the spirit of adventure and exploration across the African continent.
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  • Music Icon

    Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]

    Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]

    A vibrant and energetic anthem celebrating African culture and unity.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Anzen Chitai - 悲しみにさよなら

    Anzen Chitai - 悲しみにさよなら

    A popular Rwandan song that captures the essence of local music and rhythms.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Coldplay - Paradise

    Coldplay - Paradise

    Coldplay's uplifting tune inspires a sense of freedom and wonder, perfect for travel.
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  • Music Icon

    milk beats - Kigali

    milk beats - Kigali

    A contemporary track that beautifully portrays the vibrant life in Rwanda's capital city.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)

    Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)

    A widely popular song with an infectious beat that brings joy and dance to any trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Katy Perry - Roar

    Katy Perry - Roar

    Katy Perry's empowering song encourages strength and confidence, ideal for adventurous journeys.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Ziv Zaifman - A Million Dreams

    Ziv Zaifman - A Million Dreams

    This inspiring and hopeful tune is perfect for dreaming big while traveling.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Alyn Sano - Mwiza

    Alyn Sano - Mwiza

    A soulful Rwandan song by Knowless Butera, embracing love and harmony.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Imagine Dragons' upbeat song captures the thrill and excitement of exploring new places.
    Listen on Spotify
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