Butare - Discovering Rwanda

Travelling to Butare

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Butare, a pretty good destination in Rwanda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Butare and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Butare, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Rwanda, here's everything to know about Butare for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Butare

Butare, also known as Huye, is a city located in the southern part of Rwanda. It is the fourth largest city in the country and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Butare is home to the National Museum of Rwanda, which houses the country's largest collection of ethnographic, archaeological, and artistic artifacts. The city is also home to several universities, including the renowned University of Rwanda-College of Arts and Social Sciences. Visitors to Butare can explore traditional craft markets and visit the nearby Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is home to a variety of species of primates, birds, and other wildlife.

What to visit in Butare

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Butare, Rwanda: 1. National Museum of Rwanda: This museum is located in the heart of Butare and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It houses a range of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Rwanda's history and culture, including traditional arts and crafts, musical instruments, and ancient artifacts.
2. Ethnographic Museum: The Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda is another interesting museum located in Butare. It showcases the different lifestyles, customs, and traditions of Rwanda's various ethnic groups. Visitors can explore life-sized replicas of traditional huts, gardens, and livestock pens.
3. Nyanza Royal Palace: Located just thirty minutes from Butare, the Nyanza Royal Palace is a cultural and historical landmark that played a significant role in Rwanda's history. It was the seat of the monarchy between 1959 and 1961, and houses a range of artifacts and exhibits related to Rwandan culture and history.
4. Nyungwe National Park: This stunning national park is located a few hours' drive from Butare and is home to a range of wildlife species, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and various bird species. Visitors can go on guided hikes and walks through the forest and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Cathedral of Butare: This impressive cathedral is a significant landmark in the city and dates back to the early 20th century. Its beautiful stained glass windows and soaring arches make it a must-see for anyone interested in religious architecture. 6. Dancing Pots: A cooperative of women sell their pottery produced using traditional techniques. The clay is obtained locally and each piece is unique.
7. Butare Public Market: Local market where customers can purchase fresh foods and handcrafted goods. Visitors can get a taste of local flavors and browse through the various stalls.
8. Huye Mountain Coffee: A coffee plantation that welcomes visitors to observe and take part in coffee-making. Visitors can see firsthand how coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted to perfection.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Rwanda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Butare.

When to go on holiday to Butare

The best time to visit Butare, Rwanda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the weather is warm, dry and sunny, with little to no rainfall. This makes it perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions, such as the National Museum of Rwanda, Butare Cathedral and the Nyungwe Forest National Park. However, it's important to note that Butare's climate is generally mild and rainy, so it's a good idea to be prepared with warm clothing and rain gear regardless of the season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Butare

To get to Butare, Rwanda, you can take a flight into Kigali International Airport (KGL), which is the country's main international airport. Once you arrive in Kigali, you can then take a bus or hire a taxi to travel to Butare, which is approximately 130 km (80 miles) south of Kigali. The journey by road typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Another option is to rent a car and drive yourself, but it is important to note that driving in Rwanda can be challenging and traffic can be congested in certain areas.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Butare, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Butare

Some typical foods of Butare in Rwanda are: 1. Ugali: Usually served with a sauce or soup, Ugali is a type of porridge made from cornmeal and is a staple food in Rwanda.
2. Isombe: This is a dish made from cassava leaves mixed with eggplants and peanuts. It is typically served with beans and rice.
3. Matoke: A type of banana, Matoke is often boiled and mashed before being served with a meat stew or sauce.
4. Ibihaza: A type of small fish that is dried in the sun and then fried, Ibihaza is often eaten as a snack or used to add flavor to stews.
5. Akabenz: These are small, boiled and seasoned potatoes that are usually served as a side dish to a meat or vegetable entree.
6. Inyama n'ibitoke: A traditional dish in Rwanda, Inyama n'ibitoke is made from beans and meat served with plantains and a hot pepper sauce.
7. Umutsima: A type of porridge made from cassava and cornmeal, Umutsima is often served as a side dish with meat or beans.
8. Agatogo: A dish made from sweet potatoes and beans, which is boiled and mashed before being shaped into cakes and fried. It is usually eaten as a breakfast or snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Rwanda here.

Is Butare an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in Rwanda, Butare may be considered slightly more expensive due to its status as an academic and cultural hub in the country. However, the cost of transportation, food, and accommodation in Butare is generally lower than in Kigali, Rwanda's capital city. It is still possible to plan a budget-friendly trip to Butare by choosing affordable lodging options and dining at local markets or casual restaurants. Additionally, there are several free or low-cost attractions in Butare, including the National Museum of Rwanda and the Ethnographic Museum.

Where to find accomodation in Butare

In Butare, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center or near the National University of Rwanda. These areas offer convenient access to the main attractions in Butare, such as the National Museum of Rwanda, the Ethnographic Museum, the Butare Cathedral, and other historical and cultural sites. Additionally, these areas are well-connected to the rest of the city, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, and public transportation options available.
You can check hotel prices at Butare here:
Booking.com

Is Butare a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Butare is generally a safe place for tourists. Rwanda is known for its safety and stability, and crimes against tourists are relatively rare. However, it is always important to practice common sense safety measures, such as not carrying large amounts of cash, keeping your valuables secured, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to check the latest travel advice from your embassy or consulate before travelling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Rwanda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Butare.

What type of travelers will enjoy Butare the most?

Butare, Rwanda is a great place for history and culture enthusiasts, so it can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. Couples and families who appreciate learning about the local history and traditions will love visiting the National Museum of Rwanda which is located in Butare. The museum offers exhibitions about Rwanda's history and culture, including sections on traditional arts and crafts, pre-colonial history, and the 1994 Genocide.
Younger travelers looking for an adventure will enjoy visiting the Nyungwe National Park, which is located near Butare. The park offers hiking trails, canopy walks, and the opportunity to see wildlife such as chimpanzees, monkeys, and birds.
Overall, Butare is a great destination for all types of travelers, providing an enriching and educational experience that everyone will enjoy.

How to get around Butare

The most common mode of transportation in Butare, Rwanda, is minibuses/commuter taxis called "matatus". They operate on set routes and are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Motorcycles, also known as "motos", are another popular option for short trips within the city. Taxis are also available for hire, but they are slightly more expensive than the other options. Walking is also an option for exploring the city center.

What to see around Butare

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Butare, Rwanda: 1. Nyungwe National Park - Known for its canopy walks, hiking trails and primates 2. Huye Mountain Coffee - You can tour the coffee plantation and learn about coffee production process 3. Murambi Genocide Memorial - A powerful yet sobering visit to learn about the horrific events of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide 4. Musée National du Rwanda - A great cultural experience to learn about the art and history of Rwanda.
5. Nyanza Royal Palace - A historical and cultural experience to visit the King's Palace of Rwanda.
For every travel information about Rwanda you can click here.

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