Explore Butare, Rwanda
Overview
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.
Because of its many historical and cultural landmarks, Butare is the town that tourists prefer when on a safari in Rwanda. These include a botanical park, craft stores, and the National Museum of Rwanda, which houses the nation's ethnographic collections.
The capital of the Huye District is Butare Town, which is located in Rwanda's Southern Province. It is home to roughly 75,000 people. Butare is also home to the esteemed Nyakibanda Seminary, commonly known as the Rwandan National Institute of Scientific Research, and North Gate University of Rwanda.
The Ruhande Arboretum and cathedral are the greatest destinations to think of as must-sees if you are interested in religious or faith-based travel. In addition, Butare is home to the Butare Stadium, a terrific spot to unwind while watching local football games or enjoying some of the best local musicians in the nation.
Attractions & Tourist Destinations in Butare, Rwanda
Rakali's Palace Museum
The Rwandan monarchy was located in Nyanza Palace, which is roughly 3 km from the Palace Museum's original location. Visitors have a lot to discover in the palace, such as the unique customs and background details on the royal family's conflicts and power struggles.
The King's chamber and the typical historical palace of Mwami have been set up here, and you can be shown around. A few pieces of the original furnishings and fittings can be found in Mwami Palace.
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.
Murambi Genocide Center
Visit the Murambi Genocide Memorial to learn more about the Rwandan genocide of 1994. You can learn more about the horrors this historic town endured at this memorial site. Graphics and the catastrophic events of the Civil War provide a superb example of it.
Butare Roman Catholic Cathedral
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.
National University of Rwanda:
The National University of Rwanda is located in Butare and draws students from throughout 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.
Colonial Architecture:
Well-preserved structures that honor Rwanda's colonial past may be seen in Butare, which features stunning colonial-era architecture. Visitors can get a sense of Butare's distinct charm and historical heritage by strolling around its streets.
Local Market:
Visitors can engage with local vendors and take in the vibrant ambiance 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.
Butare provides a distinctive fusion of historical, educational, and cultural experiences, even if it does not have the same degree of tourism infrastructure or global renown as some other locations. Visitors may explore a distinct aspect of Rwanda's rich legacy thanks to its calmer and more relaxed attitude, which can be a welcome change.
Additional destinations in Rwanda's southern province include Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is home to a variety of primates. Black and white colobus monkeys, silver monkeys, chimpanzees, 400 colobus monkeys, and 500 l'hoest monkeys are among the more than 13 species of primates that are protected in this park. Nyungwe provides the greatest chimpanzee tracking, birding trips, nature/forest walks, canopy walks, and colobus monkey tracking in Rwanda.
Things to do in the Butare area
There are still some exciting things to do in the neighboring areas, even if Butare (Huye) is more well-known for its cultural and educational attractions. Here are some recommendations:
Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk:
The thrilling canopy walk is a feature of Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is close to Butare. You can stroll along strong bridges and platforms that offer stunning views of the forest canopy while suspended far above the forest floor. It's a thrilling and distinctive experience that lets you enjoy the rainforest's richness and beauty.
Hiking and Nature Trails:
There are hiking trails 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.
Mountain Biking:
If you love riding a bike, you can rent one and go on exhilarating trips across the beautiful countryside. There are bike paths close to Butare that let you see local villages, visit rural areas, and take in the area's natural beauty.
Kayaking and canoeing on Lake Kivu:
Butare is conveniently close to the lake, although not being situated on it. 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.
Community-based Tourism:
Take part in events that allow you to engage with local people and partake in their customs while visiting Butare. This can be participating in traditional dances and performances, learning about traditional farming methods, or preparing traditional Rwandan cuisine.
Chimpanzee Trekking:
There is a sizable chimpanzee population in Nyungwe Forest National Park. To see and learn more about these amazing monkeys in their natural environment, you may go on a chimpanzee trekking adventure with knowledgeable experts who will lead you through the forest. For those who enjoy nature, it's a thrilling and engaging experience.
Birdwatching:
With over 300 species identified, Nyungwe Forest is a birdwatcher's heaven. To see the forest's varied ecosystems and see a variety of bird species, including some rare and endemic ones, sign up for a birdwatching trip or hire an experienced guide. It's a wonderful chance to enjoy Rwanda's abundant bird life.
Volcano trekking:
Although it involves some travel from Butare, trekking one of the Virunga Mountains' volcanoes is an exciting way to experience a volcanic adventure. Exciting hikes to the tops of volcanoes like Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi may be found in Rwanda's northern Volcanoes National Park. You will return from these walks with a sense of accomplishment and amazing sights.
Cave Exploration:
There are a number of underground caverns in Rwanda that provide exciting chances for exploration. The Musanze Caves, sometimes referred to as the "Caves of Musanze," are situated in the Musanze District close to Butare. The caverns' dark passageways and chambers are explored by guided excursions, which also highlight the history and intriguing geological formations.
Waterfall Adventures:
Take in the splendor of nature by exploring undiscovered waterfalls close to Butare. There are numerous waterfalls in the area, some of which provide swimming pools beneath the cascades. One such location where you may take a cool plunge is Gishora Waterfall, which is close to Nyungwe Forest.
Cultural events:
You can participate in cultural events that provide a distinctive and immersive adventure, even though they are not always adventurous activities. To get a personal look at Rwandan culture, take part in homestays with local families, learn traditional drumming methods, or attend traditional dance classes.
Accommodations at Hotel Maisons Sifa in the Butare area.
The Light House Hotel at Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
The journey to Butare is 130 kilometers from the Kigali airport. To be picked up and taken to Butare, you can fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL).
In conclusion
Although Butare doesn't have many extreme adventure activities, there are plenty of chances for them because of its closeness to Lake Kivu, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and the surrounding region. Exploring the area and learning about the local outdoor activities and natural beauties is worthwhile. Conclusion: Although Rwanda's Butare (Huye) is more well-known for its educational and cultural features, there are still chances for adventure in the nearby locations. For those looking for outdoor excitement, there are possibilities ranging from mountain biking and water-based activities on Lake Kivu to hiking paths and canopy tours in Nyungwe Forest National Park. With a little more travel, you may also go chimpanzee trekking, hiking on volcanoes, exploring caves, and going on waterfall experiences.
Participating in cultural events and community-based tourism can also offer a distinctive and immersive experience. Despite the lack of extreme adventure activities in the nearby area, Butare's close proximity to outdoor attractions and natural wonders makes it possible to explore and take in Rwanda's varied landscapes.