Famous Landmarks in Rwanda

Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a small but incredibly diverse country located in the heart of East Africa. Despite its troubled past, Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s most vibrant and welcoming tourist destinations, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park to the pristine shores of Lake Kivu, Rwanda offers visitors a wide range of attractions to explore and enjoy.

Here, we will explore the top 10 famous landmarks in Rwanda by popularity, providing an overview of each site along with practical information such as location, ticket prices, nearby airports, railway stations, and special considerations for visitors.

1. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Rwanda’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Located in the Virunga Mountains in northern Rwanda, the park is home to several habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists on guided trekking expeditions. Trekking through the dense rainforest, visitors have the opportunity to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat, as well as enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and lush landscapes. In addition to gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers other activities such as golden monkey tracking, birdwatching, and hiking to the summit of Mount Bisoke. A visit to Volcanoes National Park provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter one of the world’s most endangered species in an awe-inspiring setting.

Location: Volcanoes National Park is located in northwest Rwanda, near the town of Musanze (formerly Ruhengeri).

Ticket Price: The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park is currently $1,500 per person for non-residents. Permits should be obtained in advance through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized tour operators.

Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Volcanoes National Park is Kigali International Airport (KGL), located approximately 116 kilometers south of the park. Visitors can arrange transportation from the airport to Musanze or directly to the park through tour operators or rental car services.

Special Attention: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park requires a moderate level of fitness and stamina, as treks can be challenging and may involve hiking through steep and muddy terrain. Visitors should also be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain and cooler temperatures, and adhere to guidelines for minimizing their impact on the gorillas and their habitat.

2. Kigali Genocide Memorial

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a poignant tribute to the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, one of the darkest chapters in Rwanda’s history. Located in the capital city of Kigali, the memorial serves as a memorial and educational center, dedicated to preserving the memory of the genocide and honoring the lives lost. The memorial includes exhibits that document the events leading up to the genocide, as well as personal stories, artifacts, and photographs that commemorate the victims and survivors. Visitors to the Kigali Genocide Memorial can learn about the causes and consequences of the genocide, reflect on its impact on Rwandan society, and pay their respects to the millions of people who lost their lives.

Location: The Kigali Genocide Memorial is located in the Kacyiru district of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Ticket Price: Admission to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is free of charge, although donations are encouraged to support the ongoing work of the memorial.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main airport serving the city of Kigali and is located approximately 10 kilometers east of the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Special Attention: Visitors to the Kigali Genocide Memorial should be prepared for an emotional and somber experience, as the exhibits and displays may be distressing for some individuals. Photography is not allowed inside the memorial, and visitors are asked to observe a respectful demeanor while on the premises.

3. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a protected area in southwestern Rwanda, renowned for its vast tract of montane rainforest and rich biodiversity. Covering an area of over 1,000 square kilometers, Nyungwe Forest is one of the oldest and most pristine rainforests in Africa, home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 300 bird species. Visitors to Nyungwe Forest National Park can enjoy guided forest walks, canopy tours, and primate tracking expeditions, offering opportunities to encounter wildlife and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. Highlights of a visit to Nyungwe Forest include the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge that offers panoramic views of the forest canopy, and the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, a scenic cascade nestled within the lush greenery of the park.

Location: Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda, near the town of Cyangugu (also known as Rusizi).

Ticket Price: The cost of a permit for chimpanzee tracking or canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park is currently $90 per person for non-residents. Permits can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or authorized tour operators.

Nearby Airports: Kamembe International Airport (KME) is the nearest airport to Nyungwe Forest National Park, located approximately 54 kilometers southwest of the park. Visitors can arrange transportation from the airport to nearby accommodations or directly to the park.

Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for humid and rainy conditions in Nyungwe Forest, as the region receives high levels of precipitation throughout the year. It’s advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring rain gear, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

4. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu is one of the Great Lakes of Africa, located along the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With its crystal-clear waters, scenic shores, and stunning sunsets, Lake Kivu is a popular destination for relaxation, water sports, and outdoor recreation. Visitors to Lake Kivu can enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and boat cruises, as well as hiking and cycling along the lake’s scenic trails. The lakeside towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu offer a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, where visitors can unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the lakefront setting. Lake Kivu also provides opportunities for cultural experiences, including visits to traditional fishing villages, hot springs, and coffee plantations, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and hospitality of the Rwandan people.

Location: Lake Kivu is located in western Rwanda, bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The lake is accessible from the towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye, and Cyangugu.

Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to visit Lake Kivu, as it is a natural attraction. However, there may be fees for activities such as boat cruises, kayaking, and guided tours.

Nearby Airports: Kamembe International Airport (KME) is the nearest airport to Lake Kivu, located approximately 176 kilometers southwest of Gisenyi. Kigali International Airport (KGL) is also accessible from Lake Kivu, with a travel distance of approximately 157 kilometers to Gisenyi.

Special Attention: Visitors should exercise caution when swimming in Lake Kivu, as the lake is deep and currents can be strong in certain areas. It’s advisable to swim only in designated swimming areas and follow safety guidelines provided by local authorities.

5. Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s largest protected area and one of the country’s premier wildlife destinations, offering a unique safari experience in the heart of East Africa. Located in eastern Rwanda, along the border with Tanzania, Akagera National Park is home to a diverse array of habitats, including savannah grasslands, wetlands, and lakeshores, which support a wide variety of plant and animal species. The park is known for its populations of big game animals, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles, as well as over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors to Akagera National Park can enjoy guided game drives, boat safaris, and nature walks, providing opportunities to observe wildlife, explore the park’s scenic landscapes, and learn about its conservation efforts and community initiatives.

Location: Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda, near the town of Kayonza.

Ticket Price: The cost of entry to Akagera National Park is currently $40 per person for non-residents. Additional fees may apply for guided activities such as game drives, boat safaris, and camping.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the nearest major airport to Akagera National Park, located approximately 135 kilometers west of the park. Visitors can arrange transportation from the airport to nearby accommodations or directly to the park.

Special Attention: Visitors to Akagera National Park should be aware of the park’s resident wildlife and adhere to safety guidelines provided by park rangers. It’s advisable to travel in a sturdy vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, especially when venturing into remote areas of the park.

6. Inema Art Center, Kigali

Inema Art Center is a contemporary art gallery and cultural hub located in the heart of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Founded by brothers Emmanuel Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza, the art center showcases the work of local and international artists, with a focus on promoting Rwandan art and culture. Inema Art Center features a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and mixed-media installations, which explore themes of identity, heritage, and social change. In addition to its gallery space, Inema Art Center offers workshops, artist residencies, and community outreach programs, providing opportunities for artists and visitors to engage with the creative process and foster cultural exchange. A visit to Inema Art Center offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s vibrant art scene and the transformative power of creativity in shaping society and inspiring change.

Location: Inema Art Center is located in the Kacyiru district of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Ticket Price: Admission to Inema Art Center is free of charge, although donations are welcome to support the center’s programs and initiatives.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main airport serving the city of Kigali and is located approximately 9 kilometers east of the art center.

Special Attention: Visitors to Inema Art Center should check the center’s opening hours and exhibition schedule in advance, as they may vary depending on special events or holidays. Guided tours and artist talks may be available upon request for a more immersive experience.

7. King’s Palace Museum (Rukali Palace), Nyanza

The King’s Palace Museum, also known as Rukali Palace, is a cultural heritage site located in Nyanza, southern Rwanda, which serves as a tribute to the country’s monarchy and traditional rulers. Originally built in the early 20th century as the residence of the Rwandan kings, the palace was reconstructed in the 1990s as a museum and cultural center, showcasing artifacts, regalia, and historical exhibits related to Rwandan royalty and court life. Visitors to the King’s Palace Museum can explore the palace grounds, view traditional architecture and craftsmanship, and learn about the customs, ceremonies, and rituals of the Rwandan monarchy. Highlights of the museum include the royal throne room, the king’s bedroom, and the traditional Inyambo cattle, which are revered as symbols of wealth and prestige in Rwandan culture.

Location: The King’s Palace Museum is located in Nyanza, in the Southern Province of Rwanda, approximately 88 kilometers south of Kigali.

Ticket Price: The cost of admission to the King’s Palace Museum is currently $20 per person for non-residents. Guided tours may be available for an additional fee.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the nearest major airport to the King’s Palace Museum, located approximately 82 kilometers north of Nyanza. Visitors can arrange transportation from the airport to Nyanza through tour operators or rental car services.

Special Attention: Visitors to the King’s Palace Museum should be respectful of the cultural and historical significance of the site and follow guidelines provided by museum staff. Photography may be restricted in certain areas of the palace, especially around sensitive artifacts and exhibits.

8. Ethnographic Museum (National Museum of Rwanda), Huye

The Ethnographic Museum, also known as the National Museum of Rwanda, is a cultural institution located in Huye (formerly Butare), southern Rwanda, dedicated to preserving and promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Founded in 1989, the museum is housed in a colonial-era building and features exhibits that showcase the diverse cultures, customs, and lifestyles of Rwanda’s ethnic groups, including the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa. The museum’s collections include traditional artifacts, ceremonial objects, and ethnographic displays that offer insights into Rwandan history, religion, art, and social organization. Visitors to the Ethnographic Museum can explore its galleries, attend cultural performances and demonstrations, and participate in workshops and educational programs, providing opportunities to learn about Rwanda’s cultural diversity and celebrate its heritage.

Location: The Ethnographic Museum is located in Huye (formerly Butare), in the Southern Province of Rwanda, approximately 132 kilometers south of Kigali.

Ticket Price: The cost of admission to the Ethnographic Museum is currently $15 per person for non-residents. Discounts may be available for students, children, and seniors.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the nearest major airport to the Ethnographic Museum, located approximately 135 kilometers north of Huye. Visitors can arrange transportation from the airport to Huye through tour operators or rental car services.

Special Attention: Visitors to the Ethnographic Museum should be respectful of the cultural sensitivities and traditions of the communities represented in the museum’s exhibits. Photography may be allowed in certain areas of the museum, but visitors should ask for permission before taking photos.

9. Kimironko Market, Kigali

Kimironko Market is one of the largest and busiest markets in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, offering a vibrant and colorful shopping experience for locals and visitors alike. Located in the Kimironko neighborhood, the market is a bustling hub of activity, where vendors sell a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, household items, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Kimironko Market is renowned for its lively atmosphere, friendly vendors, and diverse array of products, making it a popular destination for shopping, bargaining, and exploring Rwandan culture. Visitors to the market can browse through its bustling stalls, sample local delicacies, and interact with traders and artisans, providing opportunities to experience the vibrancy and diversity of Kigali’s street life.

Location: Kimironko Market is located in the Kimironko neighborhood of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to visit Kimironko Market, as it is a public market. However, visitors should be prepared to pay for any purchases they make.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main airport serving the city of Kigali and is located approximately 9 kilometers west of Kimironko Market.

Special Attention: Visitors to Kimironko Market should exercise caution when navigating the crowded and busy market, especially during peak hours. It’s advisable to keep valuables secure and be mindful of personal belongings while shopping.

10. Rwanda Art Museum (former Presidential Palace Museum), Kigali

The Rwanda Art Museum, formerly known as the Presidential Palace Museum, is a cultural institution located in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, dedicated to promoting Rwandan art and culture. Housed in the former residence of the Rwandan president, the museum features exhibits that showcase contemporary and traditional artworks by Rwandan artists, as well as rotating exhibitions by international artists. The museum’s collections include paintings, sculptures, textiles, and mixed-media installations that explore themes of identity, heritage, and social change in Rwanda and beyond. In addition to its gallery space, the Rwanda Art Museum offers workshops, artist residencies, and community outreach programs, providing opportunities for artists and visitors to engage with the creative process and foster cultural exchange. A visit to the museum offers a glimpse into Rwanda’s vibrant art scene and the transformative power of creativity in shaping society and inspiring change.

Location: The Rwanda Art Museum is located in the Kimihurura neighborhood of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Ticket Price: The cost of admission to the Rwanda Art Museum is currently $10 per person for non-residents. Discounts may be available for students, children, and seniors.

Nearby Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main airport serving the city of Kigali and is located approximately 9 kilometers east of the museum.

Special Attention: Visitors to the Rwanda Art Museum should check the museum’s opening hours and exhibition schedule in advance, as they may vary depending on special events or holidays. Guided tours and artist talks may be available upon request for a more immersive experience.