Where to Go for a Picnic in Rwanda

Picnics are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family. Sharing a meal in a serene garden amidst trees offers a satisfying experience that enables humans to bond and connect better with each other. More so, Picnics nowadays have become an incredible way of celebrating each other’s milestones. Picnic themed parties are a trend for instance baby showers, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, birthdays, work promotions among others. Rwanda offers several picturesque spots for a relaxing picnic. Let us explore some of these spots where to go for a picnic in Rwanda.

Mount Kigali

Located in Kigali city, approximately 10-15 minutes from the city centre, mount Kigali offers breath-taking views of the city and surrounding hills, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing and scenic outing.

It is covered with lush greenery giving you a peaceful and serene atmosphere. There is a designated picnic area available with benches, tables and grassy spaces perfect for relaxation. After your picnic, follow the hiking trails and get an opportunity to explore the mountain. The mountain is a haven for birdwatchers, with various bird species calling the area home. The picnic areas are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and a small entrance fee may be required, but this is subject to change. A picnic at Mount Kigali is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, relax, and take in the stunning views of the city and surrounding hills.

Amenities

Food and Drinks: There are no restaurants or cafes on site, but visitors can bring their own food and drinks. Endeavour to clean up the place thoroughly after the picnic.
Restrooms Basic restrooms are available, but may not be well-maintained.
Parking: Limited parking is available near the picnic areas so it is best to take a walk to the place.

Kigali City Park

A peaceful oasis located in the heart of the city, City Park, also known as Kigali Public Park or Parc de la Ville de Kigali has beautifully manicured lawns, gardens, and walking paths. There’s a well equipped playground for kids to enjoy. Kigali city park also has a designated area for picnics, with benches and a shade, making it a perfect spot for picnics. The park hosts various events, including concerts, festivals, and cultural performances. Kigali City Park is a wonderful spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of the city.

Visitors can engage in sports like football, basketball, and tennis, or play board games and cards. The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and entrance is free though some activities and events may require a certain fee.

Amenities

Food and Drink: There are restaurants, cafes, and food stalls offering a range of local and international cuisine and all forms of beverages, alcoholic and non alcoholic.
Restrooms and Showers: The park has clean and well-maintained facilities restrooms toilets and bathrooms.
Parking: There is ample parking space for vehicles at the park.
Security: There are park rangers and security personnel to ensure a safe and secure environment.

Umuganda Park

Umuganda Park is located in the Gasabo district of Kigali, near the Kimironko Market.

This park has walking trails and picnic areas. Umuganda Park is a scenic park located in the Gasabo district of Kigali, Rwanda. The park is a popular spot for recreation, relaxation, and community activities. There are well maintained lawns, gardens, and green spaces, perfect for picnics, relaxation, or outdoor activities. There is also a well-equipped playgrounds for kids with swings, slides, and climbing structures.

Courts for basketball, volleyball, and tennis, as well as a football field are also available. There is a designated space for picnics and this has benches, tables and a shade.

Amenities

Restaurant: There are on-site restaurants and cafes
Washrooms: The washrooms at the park are well maintained and cleaned.

The park hosts community work activities every last Saturday of the month, where locals come together to clean, maintain, and develop the park. Cultural events, such as traditional dance performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions are also occasionally hosted here. It is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and entrance is free.

Kanombe Botanical Gardens

Also known as Botanique de Kanombe, this is a serene garden with a variety of plants and trees. Kanombe Botanical Gardens are located in the Kanombe sector of Kigali, Rwanda. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 with small entrance fee required. Students, seniors and other special groups stand a high chance of a discount.

The gardens are a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a chance to connect with nature. The gardens feature a wide variety of plant species, including indigenous trees, flowers, and medicinal plants. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with winding paths, tranquil ponds, and scenic views.

The gardens occasionally host botanical workshops, focusing on topics like plant identification, propagation, and conservation. Gardening classes are available, teaching visitors about gardening techniques, soil management, and plant care.

Amenities

Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing insight into the gardens’ history, plant species, and conservation efforts.
Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas are available, perfect for a relaxing meal or snack.
Restrooms and Drinking Water: Clean restrooms and drinking water are available on site.
Parking: Ample parking is available for visitors.

Kanombe Botanical Gardens are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, botanists, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.

River Nyabarongo

River Nyabarongo is a peaceful river with scenic views and picnic areas. The River Nyabarongo Picnic Spot is located along the River Nyabarongo in Kigali, Rwanda.

The area is surrounded by prolofic greenery, with trees and plants providing shade and a natural ambiance. There are picnic areas are available, with benches and tables. Fishing is allowed in the river, but visitors must obtain the necessary permits.

The picnic spot is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There is no entrance fee, but visitors may need to pay for parking.

Food and Drink There are no restaurants or cafes on site. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks.
Restrooms: There are basic restrooms are available, but may not be well-maintained.
Parking: Limited parking is available near the picnic spot.

Camp Kivu

This is a scenic spot with stunning views of Lake Kivu. It is located on the shores of Lake Kivu near the town of Kibuye. It is open deals from 8:00am to 6:00pm and entrance of free of charge.

The picnic spot has direct access to the lake’s beach, allowing visitors to swim, kayak, or paddleboard. Explore the surrounding hills and forests, spotting various bird species and enjoying scenic views. You can also take a boat cruise on the lake to enjoy a relaxing experience.

Take a boat cruise on the lake, offering stunning views and a relaxing experience. Contact us to know more about where to Go for a Picnic in Rwanda.

Restaurant and Bar: A restaurant and bar are available on site, serving a range of local and international cuisine.
Restrooms and Showers: Clean restrooms and showers are available for visitors.
Parking: There is ample parking is available near the picnic spot.

Other picnic destinations include;