5-Day Relaxation Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget in Rwanda

Day 1: Explore Kigali

Kigali, Rwanda

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bourbon Coffee

Start your day with locally brewed coffee and a fresh pastry at Bourbon Coffee, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Located in the city center, easily reachable by foot.
USD5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial

Spend your morning at the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about Rwanda's history and see the poignant exhibitions.
Take a motorcycle taxi to the memorial; it’s about a 15-minute ride.
USD0 (donation suggested), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hut

Enjoy a meal at The Hut, known for its delicious, affordable local dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Walk back from the memorial, a 20-minute walk.
USD7, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Kimironko Market

Stroll through Kimironko Market for an authentic experience of local culture and a chance to buy handmade goods.
Take a bus to Kimironko market, a short ride from The Hut.
USD0 (shopping is optional), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Heaven Restaurant

Cap off your first day with a meal at Heaven Restaurant, which offers a unique mix of Rwandan and international cuisine.
Grab a local bus or taxi back to the restaurant; it’s well known.
USD10, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with a simple breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Nyungwe.
Check out of your hotel and take a bus towards Nyungwe National Park.
USD3, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking in Nyungwe National Park

Embark on a guided nature hike through Nyungwe National Park to see local flora and fauna.
Park entry fee is required, and guides can be arranged at the entrance.
USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch with a View

Have a packed lunch in the park surrounded by nature.
Pre-pack food from your accommodations or local shops.
USD5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Canopy Walk

Experience the breathtaking canopy walk suspended over the treetops.
Canopy walk section is well-marked in the park.
USD15, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Gisakura Guesthouse

Enjoy a simple yet hearty dinner at Gisakura Guesthouse, a cozy lodge with local flavors.
Located conveniently within Nyungwe, just a short walk.
USD8, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Relax by the Lake

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gisakura Guesthouse

Indulge in a fresh breakfast at the guesthouse before heading to Lake Kivu.
Check out and take local transport to Lake Kivu.
USD5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Arrive at Lake Kivu

Settle in at a budget lodge by Lake Kivu to enjoy the stunning views.
Book a budget-friendly lodge upon arrival.
USD25, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant on the Lake

Have a leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying local fish dishes.
Walk from your lodge to the restaurant.
USD8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kayaking on Lake Kivu

Rent a kayak and explore the peaceful waters of Lake Kivu.
Kayak rentals are available at your lodge or nearby.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Viewing

Unwind by the shore and take in the magical sunset over Lake Kivu.
Simply walk to the lakeshore.
USD0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Your Lodge

Enjoy a simple dinner at your lodge while mingling with fellow travelers.
Walk to the dining area of the lodge.
USD8, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Discover Volcanoes National Park

Musanze, Rwanda

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Lodge

Savor breakfast with a beautiful view of Lake Kivu before heading to Musanze.
Check out and take a local bus to Musanze.
USD5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arrive in Musanze

Upon arrival, settle in at a budget accommodation in Musanze.
Book a stay in an affordable lodge.
USD20, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Musanze Caves

Explore the fascinating Musanze Caves with a guided tour to learn about their history.
Local taxis can take you to the caves from the lodge.
USD10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Café

Refuel with a delicious lunch at a local café, trying out the Rwandan staple – ugali.
Short walk from the caves to the café.
USD7, 1 hour

4:00PM

Exploring Local Villages

Take a walk to nearby villages to experience the Rwandan lifestyle up close.
Guided village tours can be arranged through your lodge.
USD5, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Rwandan dishes.
Easy access from your accommodation.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Kigali

Kigali, Rwanda

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before checking out and heading back to Kigali.
Check out and catch a bus back to Kigali.
USD5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Spend your morning at the Caplaki Craft Village, browsing for local crafts and souvenirs.
Accessible via a local bus from the city center.
USD0 (shopping is optional), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Izuba Cafe

Have a relaxing lunch at Izuba Cafe, known for its fresh and organic menu.
Walk from Caplaki Craft Village to Izuba Cafe.
USD8, 1 hour

2:30PM

Final Day Exploration

Visit the local art galleries and shops in the area to soak in the culture one last time.
You can walk or take a motorcycle taxi within the central area.
USD0 (depends on purchases), 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Grill House

End your trip with a farewell dinner at The Grill House, enjoying grilled delicacies and drinks.
Easily accessed by local transport.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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