Welcome to Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, also known as the land of a thousand hills. Kigali is a beautiful and serene city that is known for its charm and hospitality. If you’re visiting Kigali and are looking for some fun-filled day trip activities, then look no further than our list of the 2 Best Day Trips in Kigali. These trips offer the perfect mix of cultural experiences, adventure, and relaxation, making them a must-do activity during your stay. So, pack your bags and let’s explore the beauty of Kigali together!

The 2 Best Day Trips in Kigali

1. From Kigali: 1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
2. From Kigali: Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trek with Lunch

The 2 Best Day Trips in Kigali

1. From Kigali: 1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat on a 1-day guided tour from Kigali. Leave early in the morning and journey for approximately 3 hours to Mghahinga National Park in Uganda. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before meeting your guides for the day and beginning your trek up the mountain.

The trek may be strenuous and last up to 3 hours at a relatively high altitude, but the experience of tracking the gorillas through the light mountain forest on the slopes of the Virunga is truly magical. These massive primates are extremely rare with less than 1000 living, making the opportunity to observe them in the wild even more precious.

Once you spot the gorillas, spend up to an hour watching them in their natural habitat, within meters of the families. Following your visit, stop for lunch in town and later proceed back to Kigali either for a transfer to the airport or to indulge in last-minute shopping.

This tour includes park entrance fees, gorilla permit, ranger fees, breakfast, bottled water, walking stick, fuel expenses, tips, and Rwandan and Ugandan Visas. It is advisable to bring sunglasses, snacks, hiking shoes, and sunscreen. However, please note that any travelers showing signs of obvious illness may be refused entrance by park authorities and overexposure to humans is harmful to mountain gorillas, leading to limited contact of one hour. Book now for a once in a lifetime experience!

2. From Kigali: Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trek with Lunch

Explore the stunning Volcanoes National Park with a mountain gorilla trekking tour. The tour starts and ends in Kigali where your driver will pick you up from your hotel or lodge at 4:30 am. Then, you will have a 2.5 hour journey to the park offices. Once there, a park officer will brief you and assign you to a gorilla group to track. You will trek through the forest led by a ranger guide to locate the gorillas which may take 1 to 8 hours depending on their movements. Once you’ve located the gorillas, you will have 1 hour to spend with them, taking pictures and enjoying the unique experience. Afterward, you will trek back out of the forest and transfer back to Kigali for lunch. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 15 years and people with mobility impairments. All participants must be used to walking. Don’t forget to bring your passport, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a PCR Covid test done in Rwanda to be allowed entry into Volcanoes National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kigali – Your Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a visit to Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda? If so, you likely have plenty of questions about what to expect during your trip. Kigali is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It’s home to friendly locals, bustling markets, and some of the best restaurants in Africa.

To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve put together some of the most commonly asked questions about Kigali.

What is the best time to visit Kigali?

Kigali enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September, and from December to February. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and there’s minimal rainfall, making it perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions.

What is the official language spoken in Kigali?

The official language in Kigali, as well as throughout Rwanda, is Kinyarwanda. However, many locals also speak English, Swahili, and French.

What are the must-visit attractions in Kigali?

Kigali has plenty of attractions to offer visitors, including:

• The Kigali Genocide Memorial: This museum and memorial commemorates the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation.
• Nyamirambo Women’s Center: This center offers tours of the vibrant Nyamirambo neighborhood and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the daily lives of local women.
• Inema Arts Center: This center showcases the work of contemporary African artists and features regular exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
• Kandt House Museum of Natural History: This museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the region, including its geography, flora and fauna, and the early history of Rwanda.

Is it safe to travel to Kigali?

Yes, Kigali is generally a safe city to visit. The Rwandan government places a high priority on ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and visitors. However, as with any large city, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping valuables out of sight.

What is the currency used in Kigali?

The official currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF). Visitors can exchange foreign currency at banks and exchange bureaus throughout the city. Credit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments, such as hotels and restaurants.

What is the food like in Kigali?

Kigali is home to a diverse range of restaurants, serving both traditional Rwandan and international cuisine. Some of the most popular local dishes include:

• Ugali: A thick, starchy porridge made from cornmeal or cassava flour.
• Ibiharage: A bean stew made with kidney beans, tomatoes, and onions.
• Isombe: A dish made from mashed cassava leaves, often served with grilled meat or fish.
• Matoke: Steamed green bananas, often served with a spicy tomato and onion sauce.

Visitors should also be sure to try Rwandan coffee, which is known for its rich flavor and is grown in the country’s lush hills and valleys.

What is the dress code in Kigali?

Kigali is a relatively conservative city, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting public places like markets or religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid wearing shorts or skirts that are above the knee. Men should also dress conservatively, avoiding shorts and sleeveless shirts.

What are the transportation options in Kigali?

Kigali has several transportation options, including taxis, buses, and motorcycles. Taxis are generally the most reliable and convenient option for getting around the city. Visitors should make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before beginning their journey. Motorcycle taxis, or “motos,” are also a popular option, but visitors should exercise caution as they can be less safe than taxis.

What should I know about Rwandan culture?

Rwanda has a rich and diverse culture, with a long history of traditions and customs. Some things to keep in mind when visiting Kigali include:

• Greeting people: Rwandans often greet each other with a handshake, followed by a gentle hug or a pat on the back.
• Respecting elders: Rwandans place a high value on respecting elders and showing deference to those in positions of authority.
• Be mindful of people’s personal space: Rwandans value personal space and may view certain actions, such as standing too close, as invasive.
• Respectful clothing: Visitors should dress conservatively to show respect for local customs and traditions.

With these tips in mind, visitors can experience the warm hospitality and rich culture of Kigali and Rwanda as a whole.

Final Thoughts

Kigali is a city full of fascinating history, culture, and attractions. By answering the most frequently asked questions about the city, we hope that we’ve provided you with valuable information that will help you plan your visit. Be sure to keep these tips in mind as you explore Kigali and get ready for an unforgettable trip.