1 Full Day Culture & Heritage Experience (Nyanza & Butare)
Nyanza, RW
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Experience Rwandan history and culture in detail
- Visit the King's Palace Museum in Nyanza
- Explore the Ethnographic Museum in Butare
- See one of Africa's finest ethnographic collections
- Enjoy lunch at Ibis restaurant
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Private Tour
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Duration 10 hours 30 minutes
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Lunch included
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English and French guide
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Admission tickets included
Join us on a thrilling adventure through Rwandan history and culture with our 1 Full Day Culture & Heritage Experience in Nyanza and Butare. Step into the past at the King's Palace Museum in Nyanza and learn about the monarchial system and its abolition in the 1960s. Marvel at the beautifully crafted traditional royal residence, shaped like a beehive, and meet the descendants of the King's herd, whose keepers sing and tend to them. Then, journey to Butare and explore the remarkable Ethnographic Museum, showcasing one of Africa's finest collections of historical, artistic, and archaeological artifacts. Immerse yourself in the culture of Rwandans as you discover traditional customs, beliefs, poetry, and more. After this enlightening experience, enjoy a delicious lunch at Ibis restaurant before returning to Kigali. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to uncover the rich heritage of Rwanda. Book your spot now!
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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10 hours 30 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, French
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Self-guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Rwanda's rich culture and heritage on a full-day experience visiting the King's Palace Museum and Ethnographic Museum.
Included
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Lunch
Excluded
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All items not specifically listed under the inclusions.
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
King's Palace Museum
Our driver guide will pick you from your hotel in Kigali at 08h00 am, short briefing about your tour and then drive to King's Palace Museum in Nyanza town, Southern Province of Rwanda (the drive lasts 2h30). A reconstruction of the traditional royal residence, the King's Palace Museum is a beautifully crafted thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive. In olden times, Nyanza was the heart of Rwanda. According to oral tradition, it was the site of battles and power struggles. For a long time, the monarchy was mobile, moving the court between various locations. When it eventually settled in one place, Nyanza was the obvious choice. The capital of the Kingdom has as many as 2,000 inhabitants, and huts built with the same methods as seen here. At the back live a few long horned Inyambo cattle, descended from the King's herd, whose keepers carefully tend and sing to them, keeping alive a unique tradition. Rwanda ceased to be a monarchy in 1962, when it gained independence.
120 minutes
Admission Included
Ethnographic Museum
After an amazing experience at King's Palace Museum in Nyanza town, you will drive 30 minutes to Butare and visit the Ethnographic Museum. A gift from Belgium’s King Baudouin in the late 1980s, the Ethnographic Museum now houses one of Africa’s finest ethnographic collections. Seven galleries display historical, ethnographic, artistic and archaeological artifacts accompanied by visual aides, giving visitors a rich insight into the Rwandan culture. The exhibits open with geographical and geological displays, moving on to items used in hunting, agriculture, animal husbandry, pottery, weaving and woodwork. Traditional clothing and architectural methods are also illustrated, as well as the social importance of cattle. The final room reveals traditional customs and beliefs, history, culture, poetry and oral tradition and cosmology. After this amazing experience, you will have lunch at Ibis restaurant. Thereafter, drive back to Kigali.
120 minutes
Admission Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers -
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Try traditional Rwandan cuisine at Ibis. -
Visit the nearby Nyanza market for local crafts.
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Bring a camera for stunning landscape views.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours.
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Check out local music performances in Butare.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Rwanda with the 1 Full Day Culture & Heritage Experience. This immersive tour will take you on a journey through time, allowing you to learn about the fascinating traditions and customs of the Rwandan people. During this full-day adventure, you will have the opportunity to visit two iconic landmarks: the King's Palace Museum in Nyanza and the Ethnographic Museum in Butare.What to expect?
Embark on a 630-minute adventure that promises to captivate your senses and expand your knowledge. Step into the King's Palace Museum, a beautifully crafted thatched dwelling that offers a glimpse into Rwanda's monarchical system and its eventual abolition during the era of colonialism. Marvel at the authenticity of the reconstructed royal residence as you explore its fascinating history and witness the long-horned Inyambo cattle, descendants of the King's herd. Next, venture to the Ethnographic Museum, where you will be immersed in one of Africa's finest collections of historical, ethnographic, artistic, and archaeological artifacts. Be transported through time as you delve into the cultural traditions of Rwandans through beautifully displayed exhibits and visual aides. From traditional clothing and architectural methods to the social significance of cattle, every corner of this museum unveils a unique aspect of Rwanda's rich heritage.Who is this for?
This captivating experience is designed for curious individuals, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers who are eager to delve into Rwanda's past. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or someone embarking on their first adventure, this tour is open to all who wish to gain a deep appreciation for the diverse customs and traditions of Rwanda. From families seeking educational experiences to solo travelers yearning to immerse themselves in a different culture, this tour caters to a wide range of interests.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey that combines education and adventure. By booking this full-day culture and heritage experience, you will gain a profound understanding of Rwanda's history and culture. From the King's Palace Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Rwandan monarchy, to the Ethnographic Museum, housing an impressive collection of artifacts, this tour ensures an enriching and thought-provoking experience. Uncover the secrets of Rwanda's past and witness the resilience and beauty of its traditions.Good to know
The duration of this tour is approximately 10 and a half hours, guaranteeing an in-depth and immersive experience. From the moment our driver guide picks you up from your Kigali hotel, you will be treated to a seamless and informative journey through Rwanda's cultural heritage. Lunch is included at the renowned Ibis restaurant, where you can savor delicious cuisine while reflecting on the wonders you have discovered. Prepare to be captivated by the unique beauty and history that awaits you at each stop along the way.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this tour have left raving reviews about the captivating experiences they encountered. They praise the knowledgeable guides who provided fascinating insights into Rwanda's history and culture. The reconstructed King's Palace, with its beehive shape and authentic design, left many visitors in awe. The Ethnographic Museum, known for its impeccably curated exhibits and rich collection, received accolades for its ability to transport visitors back in time and offer a deeper understanding of Rwandan customs. Overall, individuals who have booked this tour express their satisfaction and recommend it as a must-do for anyone visiting Rwanda.
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