What to do in Butare Rwanda
Discover Butare, Rwanda, one of the most amazing safari sites in terms of history and culture. Prior to 1965, Butare also known as Huye was Rwanda’s largest city or town. However, this changed when Kigali was designated as the nation’s capital. Unlike Kigali, Butare is primarily a cultural and intellectual hub and lacks political clout. In honor of the Belgian Queen Astrid, the location was better known as Astrida City during the Belgian colonial era. What to do in Butare Rwanda.
On a Rwanda safari, Butare is the most popular town because of its many historical and cultural landmarks. These include the Rwandan National Museum, which houses the ethnographic treasures of the nation, as well as a botanical garden and handicraft stores.
Butare Town, the capital of Huye District, is located in Rwanda’s Southern Province. It has a population of roughly 75,000. North Gate University of Rwanda and the esteemed Nyakibanda Seminary, commonly known as the Rwandan National Institute of Scientific Research, are both located in Butare.
What are the top tourist attractions in Butare Rwanda?
The National Museum
One of the must-see sights in Butare is the National Museum of Rwanda. The ethnographic collections of East Africa are on display at the museum. This town features displays of the nation’s history and culture, traditional handicrafts, decorations, and a life-size model of a traditional hut.
The Palace Museum in Rakali
The Rwandan monarchy was based in Nyanza Palace, which is roughly 3 miles from the Palace Museum’s original location. Visitors can explore the palace’s unique customs and learn more about the royal family’s power struggles and conflicts.
You can explore and view the King’s chamber in the restored traditional historical palace of Mwami. Mwami Palace still has some of the original fixtures and furniture.
The Roman Catholic Cathedral in Butare
In honor of the Belgian Princess Astrid, this cathedral was built. Constructed in 1930, it is the largest church in Rwanda and boasts a distinctive layout and interior style.
Center for Genocide in Murambi
The Murambi Genocide Memorial offers more information about the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Visit this memorial site to learn more about the horrors this ancient community endured. The catastrophic events of the Civil War and visuals provide an excellent example of it.
The Local Market
Visitors can engage with local vendors and take in the vibrant atmosphere at Butare’s bustling local market. The market provides guests with an authentic experience by enabling them to buy traditional Rwandan souvenirs, apparel, and crafts. Additionally, it’s a chance to try regional cuisine and specialties.
Colonial Style Buildings
Beautiful colonial-era architecture may be seen at Butare, where well-preserved structures from Rwanda’s colonial past are on display. Visitors can get a sense of Butare’s distinct charm and historical heritage by strolling around its streets.
Rwanda’s National University
The National University of Rwanda is located in Butare and draws students from all over the nation. With a youthful and intelligent populace, the university’s presence adds to the town’s lively atmosphere. Guests can interact with students, go to seminars or lectures, and take in the academic setting.
Butare’s southern Rwandan position provides it an ideal starting point for visiting neighboring sights. It serves as a starting point for visits to Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is renowned for its amazing biodiversity and opportunities to follow primates. Additionally, Lake Kivu and its picturesque environs are very close to the town, offering chances for leisure and water sports.
Things to do nearby Butare
There are still some enjoyable activities in the surrounding areas, even if Butare [Huye] is primarily recognized for its cultural and educational features. Listed below are some ideas:
Forest Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Near Butare, Nyungwe Forest National Park provides a thrilling canopy walk experience. Walking along strong bridges and platforms that offer stunning views of the forest canopy, you can get a great deal of elevation above the forest floor. You can enjoy the rainforest’s richness and beauty through this thrilling and unusual journey.
Nature Trails and Hiking
There are hiking paths and stunning scenery in the area around Butare. There are numerous hiking trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park that are suitable for hikers of all skill levels, enabling you to discover the park’s varied ecosystems and come across species. Outside the park, there are paths like the Congo Nile Trail, which provides breathtaking views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding highlands.
Lake Kivu canoeing and kayaking
You can plan a trip to Lake Kivu and partake in water sports like kayaking or canoeing. Explore little islands, paddle along the shore, and take in the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Trekking Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees have a major population in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Experienced guides will lead you on a chimpanzee trekking adventure into the forest so you can see and learn about these amazing animals in their natural environment. For those who love animals, it’s an exciting and absorbing adventure.
Exploration of Caves
Numerous underground caverns in Rwanda provide exceptional prospects for exploration. The Musanze Caves, also known as the “Caves of Musanze,” are located near Butare in the Musanze District. Guided tours highlight the history and fascinating geological structures while exploring the caverns’ dark corridors and chambers.
Accommodations in the Butare area
- Maisons Sifa Hotel.
- The Light House Hotel
- Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
How can one get to Butare?
Butare is 130 kilometers from Kigali airport and reachable by road. You may travel to Kigali International Airport [KGL] to be picked up and transported to Butare.
