What to do in Rwanda before or after a conference in Kigali

What to Do in Rwanda Before or After a Conference in Kigali

Are you attending a conference in Kigali, Rwanda? Whether it’s a business summit, a corporate event, or a UN meeting, Rwanda offers a wide variety of tourist attractions and cultural experiences that make your trip unforgettable.

This guide highlights the top things to do in Rwanda before or after your conference — from gorilla trekking to city tours, genocide memorial visits, and culinary adventures.

Why Visit Rwanda?

Known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda is a stunning landlocked country bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Beyond its beautiful rolling landscapes, Rwanda is globally recognized for its mountain gorillas, clean cities, and remarkable recovery following the 1994 genocide.

Today, the Rwandan government has transformed the country into one of Africa’s safest and cleanest destinations, offering travelers a blend of wildlife, culture, and innovation.

1. Go Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Conservation in Uganda Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo

A trip to Volcanoes National Park is a must before or after your conference. Home to over 400 mountain gorillas and ten habituated gorilla families, the park is Rwanda’s top attraction.

Highlights:

Gorilla Trekking: Requires a gorilla permit, which must be booked in advance through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Only 80 permits are issued daily, so plan early.
Cultural Visit: Stop by the Gorilla Guardians Village (formerly Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village) to experience Kinyarwanda culture, traditional dances, and local cuisine.
Hiking the Virunga Volcanoes: Trek Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, or Mount Sabinyo for scenic views and adventure.
Musanze Caves Tour: Explore the 32 historic caves once used by the Batwa tribe.

Tip: You can combine your gorilla trek with a golden monkey trek — another rare primate experience in the same park.

2. Explore Akagera National Park

Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera National Park offers classic African savanna experiences. It’s the best place in Rwanda to see the Big Five — lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes.

Activities:

Morning or evening game drives
Boat cruise on Lake Ihema
Birdwatching (over 500 species)
Cultural tours in nearby villages

3. Take a Kigali City Tour

Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is one of Africa’s cleanest and most organized cities. Before heading home or to the national parks, explore its modern and historical attractions.

Top Spots:

Kigali Convention Centre: A striking landmark, especially at night.
Kigali Genocide Memorial: Learn about Rwanda’s tragic past and recovery.
Mamba Club: Kigali’s best nightlife spot — with a bowling alley, bar, and restaurant.
Kimironko Market: Shop for souvenirs, local fabrics, and crafts at fair prices.

4. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Head southwest to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees.

Experiences:

Chimpanzee Trekking: Requires a chimp trekking permit.
Canopy Walk: The 50-meter-high suspension bridge — the longest in East Africa — offers breathtaking views.
Birdwatching: Spot over 130 bird species and butterflies.
Tea Plantation Tours: Visit Gisakura Tea Estate to learn about tea processing.

5. Visit the Historic Hotel des Mille Collines

Made famous by the movie Hotel Rwanda, the Hotel des Mille Collines is both luxurious and historically significant. During the 1994 genocide, it sheltered over 1,200 people. Today, it’s a five-star hotel with fine dining and a beautiful pool overlooking Kigali.

6. Walk the Nyungwe Canopy Trail

For adventure lovers, the Nyungwe Canopy Walk is one of Rwanda’s most thrilling experiences. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, it gives you panoramic views of the lush rainforest. Children must be accompanied by adults.

Best time: During the dry season (June–September and December–February) for clear visibility and easy trekking.

7. Visit Rwanda’s Genocide Memorial Sites

To understand Rwanda’s resilience, visit the country’s Genocide Memorial Centres, which honor victims and educate visitors about peace and unity.

Key Memorials:

Kigali Genocide Memorial – resting place for 300,000 victims.
Nyamata Church Memorial
Murambi Genocide Memorial
Ntarama, Bisesero & Nyarubuye Memorials

8. Experience Rwandan Cuisine

No trip to Rwanda is complete without a culinary adventure. Sample local dishes like:

Isombe (cassava leaves in peanut sauce)
Brochettes (grilled meat skewers)
Akabenz (fried pork)
Sambaza (small fried fish from Lake Kivu)
Urwagwa (traditional banana beer)

Visit a milk bar for fresh milk from Rwanda’s long-horned cows — a cultural favorite.

9. Cycle the Congo Nile Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Congo Nile Trail offers a 140-mile cycling route along Lake Kivu, through tea plantations and local villages. It’s perfect for biking, hiking, or camping adventures.

Bring along:

A helmet and gloves
Snacks and bottled water
A tent or warm clothing

Bike rentals are available in Gisenyi or Rubavu.

10. Visit Rwanda’s Tea Estates

Rwanda’s tea plantations are scenic and educational. Tour estates like Gisovu, Gisakura, and Pfunda Tea Estate to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy fresh tastings amidst the hills.

11. Take Part in Umuganda — Rwanda’s Community Clean-Up Day

Every last Saturday of the month, Rwandans participate in Umuganda, a nationwide community service event where citizens clean their neighborhoods. You can volunteer and join locals to experience Rwanda’s strong sense of unity and discipline.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for most tourist activities — from gorilla trekking to cycling and game drives. However, it’s also peak tourist season, so book accommodation and permits early.

Plan Your Trip to Rwanda

Whether you’re attending a conference in Kigali or extending your stay, Rwanda offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and tranquility.

Plan your safari or cultural tour with a trusted operator through VisitRwanda.com or explore tour options from Uganda and East Africa to combine multiple destinations.