Family Friendly Activities Kigali

Fun for the Whole Family in Kigali!

Kigali is a clean, hilly, walkable capital, and it offers a surprising array of activities for families with children of all ages. Here’s a glimpse into some options:

Outdoor and Nature:

  • Nyandungu Eco-Park: A restored wetland on the edge of the city, with boardwalks, a small lake, and birdlife, a straightforward place for kids to walk and spot wildlife without a long drive.
  • Mount Kigali: Hike or bike up this stunning peak for panoramic views of the city. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at the summit!

Arts and Crafts:

  • Inema Arts Center: This vibrant art center often hosts workshops and events suitable for kids, letting them explore painting, sculpting, or music.
  • Nyamirambo Women’s Center: This center empowers women through craft-making and offers workshops where families can learn traditional Rwandan skills like basket weaving or soap making.

Cultural Immersion:

  • Kimironko Market: This busy market has vendors selling everything from fresh produce to colorful fabrics. It’s a great place to experience local life and pick up souvenirs.
  • Iby’iwacu Cultural Village: Learn about traditional Rwandan culture through music, dance, storytelling, and crafts demonstrations, a day trip from the city.
  • Kigali Convention Centre: The city’s landmark dome lights up at night and is worth a drive-by even if you’re not attending an event there.

Tips for Families:

  • Transportation: Taxis are readily available and affordable in Kigali.
  • Food: Kigali has a diverse culinary scene with plenty of options to suit all palates. Don’t miss trying local specialties like brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and ugali (cornmeal porridge).
  • Safety: Kigali is considered a safe city, but it’s always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Kigali Genocide Memorial

Kigali is also home to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where more than 250,000 victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi are buried. It is not a children’s outing, and it does not belong on a list of family fun beside a market or an art centre. Whether an older child is ready for it is a judgment call for each parent to make, and it works best as its own separate stop rather than folded into a day that also includes a park or a craft workshop.

Remember: Always research attractions beforehand to check opening hours and any age restrictions that may apply. Enjoy exploring Kigali with your family!