Kigali in 1 Day for Friends - Guided visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial (Gisozi)
In Collaboration with Kigali Atlantis Tours. Updated on March 15, 2026.
Full-day guided Kigali city tour combining key historical sites, a local market visit and a hands-on bag & basket weaving class with a Rwandan artisan. The guide collects you from your accommodation, leads visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, serves lunch at Pili Pili Restaurant, explores Kimironko Market, then joins a local artisan for a practical bag-—
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Kigali Atlantis Tours, inspired by the tour Kigali City Tour + Handmade bags & Basket Weaving Class. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial (Gisozi)
- Campaign Against Genocide Museum (Parliament area)
- Lunch with a view at Pili Pili Restaurant
- Explore Kimironko Market
- Hands-on bag & basket weaving class with a local artisan
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day city tour: briefing and hotel collection, memorial and museum visits, lunch, market exploration and a practical weaving class; returns to accommodation by late afternoon.
Meet your guide & brief at your hotel
Guide meets you at your accommodation in Kigali for a short briefing about the day and to confirm any mobility or dietary needs.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your accommodation name and room number ready for the guide to speed the meet-up.
- Carry a small day bag with water and a light jacket — Kigali can be breezy in the morning.
- If you have mobility limitations, tell the guide during briefing so stops can be paced accordingly.
Transfer: hotel to Kigali Genocide Memorial (Gisozi)
Short drive across Kigali to the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi (buffered transfer).
Tips from local experts:
- Expect city traffic; allow the driver to use taxi lanes where permitted for quicker transfer.
- Restroom stops are available at the memorial but not guaranteed on the short transfer.
- Keep a copy of any ID or voucher handy in case the site requests identification on arrival.
Visit: Kigali Genocide Memorial (Gisozi)
Guided visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand the events of 1994 and see the exhibition and gardens. Time includes entry and time for reflection.
Tips from local experts:
- Photography is allowed in some areas but observe signage and respect memorial spaces where photography is restricted.
- The memorial has stairs; if you need step-free access mention this to the guide at briefing.
- Allow time for the small gift/shop area if you wish to purchase educational materials or support memorial projects.
Transfer: to Campaign Against Genocide Museum (parliament area)
Short drive to the Campaign Against Genocide Museum located at the parliament area for a focused visit on the role of RPF INKOTANYI.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum is near government buildings; carry ID as security checks are possible nearby.
- Wear comfortable shoes—short walk from drop-off to the museum entrance is standard.
- If you prefer a quieter visit, let the guide know; they can prioritize less-busy galleries first.
Visit: Campaign Against Genocide Museum
Guided tour of the Campaign Against Genocide Museum to learn about the actions that led to the end of the genocide and Rwanda's recovery.
Tips from local experts:
- The exhibition contains graphic historic material—consider comfort levels before entering.
- Ask the guide for additional context or to spend extra time on sections of particular interest.
- Audio guides may not be available; rely on the guide for interpretive commentary.
Transfer: to Pili Pili Restaurant for lunch
Drive to Pili Pili Restaurant for lunch with a view; time allowed for transit and settling in.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions, confirm them with the guide before ordering so the restaurant can accommodate.
- Carry some Rwandan francs or card — restaurants accept cards but smaller vendors may prefer cash.
- Restrooms are available at the restaurant; use them before continuing the day’s walking sections.
Lunch: Pili Pili Restaurant
One-hour lunch at Pili Pili Restaurant known for its views — relaxed meal to recharge before market exploration.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for local dishes if you want to sample Rwandan cuisine (plantain, grilled fish, or stews).
- Request a table with a view when you arrive if available — let the guide arrange seating.
- Keep receipts for any special dietary requests or to note ingredients if you have allergies.
Transfer: to Kimironko Market
Drive to Kimironko Market with time for traffic; short walking arrival to the covered market area.
Tips from local experts:
- Kimironko Market is large and busy; keep valuables secure and use a money belt if possible.
- Agree a meeting point and time with your guide before you start exploring the market.
- Bring small change for quick purchases — vendors often prefer smaller denominations.
Explore Kimironko Market
Guided walk through Kimironko Market to see fruit, vegetables, fabrics and local crafts; time to browse stalls and ask artisans about materials.
Tips from local experts:
- Haggling is common; start a bit lower than your intended spend and be polite when bargaining.
- If buying textiles, check the weave and seams — sellers can show similar items to confirm quality.
- Stay hydrated and wear breathable clothing; the market is covered but can feel warm.
Short walk to artisan workshop
Short transfer/walk within the Kimironko area to the local artisan's workspace where the weaving class takes place.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for short walks between stalls and the nearby workshop.
- If you bought materials at the market to use in the workshop, carry them in a small bag for ease.
- Confirm the exact workshop meeting point with your guide so you arrive together.
Hands-on: Handmade bags & basket weaving class with a local artisan
Join Virginie, a local artisan, for a practical class where she demonstrates and teaches basic techniques for making a handmade bag and traditional basket weaving; includes cultural context about the craft and its role in livelihoods.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect to use your hands — wear short sleeves or roll up long sleeves and remove delicate jewelry.
- The lesson is practical; bring a small notebook or take photos (if the artisan is comfortable) to remember techniques.
- If you wish to keep your finished item, let the guide know early so time can be managed; larger items may take longer to complete.
Return transfer to your accommodation
After the workshop the guide will drive you back to your hotel or place of stay to conclude the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with the guide the exact drop-off location and expected arrival time before leaving the workshop.
- Allow the guide to arrange transport; they will help load any purchases into the vehicle.
- If you need to be dropped at a specific spot (different from your booking address), tell the guide during the workshop so they can plan the route.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Attraction, Culture, Restaurant, Experience |