Nyanza

Rwanda, Africa

Nyanza, a vibrant town in Rwanda, is steeped in rich history, particularly known for the National Museum of Rwanda and the traditional King’s Palace, showcasing the craftsmanship of Rwandan culture. The town has stunning landscapes, perfect for exploration, with opportunities to experience local traditions. Nyanza is también famed for its warm hospitality and is an excellent base for extending your Rwandan adventure, offering a glimpse into the country's captivating heritage and scenic beauty.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Kigali

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Nyanza

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nyanza Royal Palace

Explore the historic seat of the Rwandan monarchy.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Intore Dance Performances

Witness traditional Rwandan dance and music performances.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Rwanda Art Museum

Admire contemporary Rwandan art in a former palace.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Nyanza's local markets

Shop for crafts and local produce at vibrant markets.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ethnographic Museum

Learn about Rwandan culture, art, and history.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Guided Village Walk

Engage with locals and learn about their daily lives.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy Lake Muhazi Activities

Savor kayaking and fishing in serene surroundings.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mwima Cultural Center

Experience traditional crafts and community interactions.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Join a Coffee Tour

Discover the coffee-making process and local farms.

Booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Explore rich biodiversity in a stunning rainforest.

Booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a Traditional Cooking Class

Learn to cook authentic Rwandan dishes with locals.

Booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway

Experience breathtaking views from a unique walkway.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Rwanda Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Kinyarwanda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, popular snack. (National dish)

Ugali

VE

Starchy maize porridge, staple food.

Isombe

VE

Cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts.

Matoke

VE

Steamed green bananas, often served with sauce.

Ibihaza

VE

Pumpkin pieces, often cooked or mashed.

Phrases to learn

English

Kinyarwanda

Hello

Muraho

(Moo-rah-ho)

Yes/No

Yego / Oya

(Yeh-go / Oh-yah)

Thank you

Urakoze

(Oo-rah-koh-zeh)

Excuse me

Mbabarira

(M-bah-bah-ree-rah)

How much?

Angahe?

(Ahn-gah-heh)