1-Day Kigali City Tour with Best Sights & Memorial Visits
Perfect 1-Day Kigali City Tour – Vibrant Sights, Genocide Memorial & History
A 1-Day Kigali City Tour is a joyful 1-Day Kigali City Tour to one of the fastest-growing safari destinations in Africa, popular for its incredible primate population including the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park. Most visitors traveling to Rwanda are always interested in tracking the primates however, contrary to primate adventure, a 1-Day Kigali City Tour, promises an educational experience that gives you glimpses into Rwanda’s history and heritage. The 1-Day Kigali City Tour is a perfect Safari Package that allows visitors to explore Rwanda’s Capital while in Rwanda. The Kigali city perfectly blends history, culture, and modern urban life, making it a perfect destination for those interested in African City Tours. The Kigali city was established in 1907 by then the colonial rule (German colonial government) and ever since then, it has developed into an urban area while protecting its heritage. Today, this city stands as one of the best symbols of the resilience of Rwanda.
This 1-Day Kigali City Tour provides visitors with an enriching experience – it allows visitors to learn about the country’s history. The city is rich when it comes to landmarks with places like the Kigali Genocide Memorial that honors the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This 1-Day Kigali City tour will also take you to several other sites including the presidential palace museum and the Camp Kigali. Beyond historical land marks, Kigali is also a rich cultural city with places like the Nyamirambo neighborhood that are famous for lively markets, colorful streets, and cultural centers.
Embark on this 1 Day Kigali City Tour and connect with the Rwanda’s history and culture while enjoy the warm hospitality. Chat With Us and Start Planning this Safari.
What the 1 Day Kigali City Tour Includes (Quick Overview)
- Duration: Typically 6–8 hours (half-day or full-day options available)
- Start / End: Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or the airport in Kigali
- Highlights: Kigali Genocide Memorial, Nyamata Church, Ntarama Memorial, Camp Kigali, Inema Arts Centre, Niyo Arts, Kimironko Market, and local craft co-ops
- Transport: Private vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide
- Best for: Travelers wanting history, art, culture and safe, compact sightseeing
Detailed Itinerary of 1-Day Kigali City Tour
Pickup and Welcome
From your preferred pick up location (hotel or Airport) your driver guide will pick you up to start this short 1-Day Kigali City Tour.
Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre
Your excursion starts with a visit to Rwanda’s Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, one of the most visited areas in the city.
The center combines a museum, exhibition space, and well-tended gardens and memorial walls. From the Kigali Genocide memorial, you’ll proceed with a visit to Nyamata Church and Ntarama Genocide Memorial. During a visit to these sites, you’ll learn about the tragic incident of the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda.
Camp Kigali & Historical Highlights
Continue with your tour to the Camp Kigali, Art Galleries in Kigali, Inema arts center, Niyo arts center, local markets like Kimironko, and Crafts Adventure Village Co-operative, among others locations in the city.
Lunch Break
Lunch can be enjoyed in between the tour at one of Rwanda’s historical hotels, like Hotel Des Mille Collines, formerly called Hotel Rwanda, which served as a refugee Centre during the genocide of 1994. Alternatively, you can have your Lunch at Heaven Restaurant. After lunch, proceed with your city exploration, visiting local markets and art galleries among other places. Stop at a craft cooperative for locally made souvenirs that directly support artisans.
Final Drop-off
Later, after your city tour, you’ll be driven back to your preferred drop-off point (Hotel or Airport). This safari package can also be customized or extended to include other top safari activities in Rwanda, including Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzee trekking, and Rwanda wildlife viewing safaris to Akagera National Park.
End of 1-Day Kigali City Tour.
What to Expect & Practical Notes
- Pacing: Expect a gentle but full day — a mix of walking and short drives. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are useful.
- Respect: Memorial sites are solemn places. Photography is usually allowed in public areas but restricted in some exhibitions — always ask your guide. Dress conservatively for memorial visits.
- Accessibility: Most museums and major sites are wheelchair accessible, but older churches and markets may have uneven ground. Ask in advance if mobility assistance is needed.
- Family-Friendly: The tour works well with children old enough to sit through a museum visit (guides can adapt explanations for kids).
- Safety: Kigali is one of Africa’s safest capitals. Standard travel precautions apply; keep valuables discreet and follow your guide’s advice.


Approximate Cost of 1-day Kigali City Tour
Costs range dependent on group size, private versus group tours, and inclusions. The following are rough estimates to facilitate planning:
- Common group city tour (per person): USD 40–60
- Private half-day tour (one vehicle): USD 80–120 in total (1–4 people
- Private day tour (one vehicle): USD 120–180 (1–4 people)
Fares usually include transportation, an English-speaking speaker, and bottles of water. Memorial and museum admission fees are usually fair but sometimes not included — budget $2–$15 per sight.
Add-ons and Extensions
- Gorilla Trek Booking Help: You can combine a city tour with gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park. We can arrange transfers and logistics for you.
- Akagera National Park: Provide for one more day for savanna game drives and boat trips within Akagera.
- Cultural Insights: Convert the trip to Nyamirambo into a guided walking tour that includes home-cooked meals at a typical home.
- Dance Performance or Cooking Class: Ask for a Rwandan cooking demonstration or a traditional Rwandan performance for a unique cultural experience.
Packing List for a 1-Day Kigali City Tour
- Casual shoes and light clothing
- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreens
- Refillable water bottle (your guide will refuel it again)
- Light daypack and camera (be respectful memorial regulations on photography)
- Photocopies of travel document or passport if necessary