Things to do in Southern Province
Discover the best attractions and experiences Southern Province has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Rwanda's southern history through royal sites and memorials that anchor the region's story.
Murambi Genocide Memorial
A sobering memorial in Nyamagabe District preserving classrooms and exhibits from the 1994 genocide.
King’s Palace Museum (Nyanza)
Historic royal residence turned museum, showcasing traditional architecture and royal regalia.
Museums
Discover the region’s culture and history through its main museums.
Ethnographic Museum, Huye
Rwanda’s national museum featuring artifacts, crafts, and displays about daily life and history.
King’s Palace Museum (Nyanza)
A living snapshot of the royal past with traditional houses and regalia on display.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites and pilgrimage destinations in the Southern Province.
Kibeho Shrine
Catholic Marian shrine and pilgrimage site set on the rolling hills of Nyaruguru.
Huye Cathedral
Historic Catholic church serving as a spiritual center in the Huye area.
National & Theme Parks
Rwanda's lush nature reserves in the south offer waterfalls, trails and rainforest.
Nyungwe National Park
Africa’s oldest rainforest boasting primate trekking, waterfalls and immense biodiversity.
Nyungwe Canopy Walk
Suspended walkway through the forest canopy with panoramic views.
Neighborhoods
Explore the towns that anchor Southern Province, from royal towns to university hubs.
Nyanza
Historic town and provincial capital, gateway to royal heritage and markets.
Huye (Butare)
University-town atmosphere with cultural museums, cafes and lively student life.
Kibeho
Pilgrimage town in Nyaruguru known for its spiritual shrines and hillside scenery.
Free Things to Do
Experience the region without a fee by strolling historic towns, markets and scenic viewpoints.
Stroll Huye Market and Campus Lakefront
Browse local produce, crafts and watch daily life by the campus lake.
Walk the streets of Nyanza
Admire colonial-era architecture and small-town charm along the central streets.
View Nyungwe foothills from Vista Points
Take in sweeping views of the forested hills from public viewpoints.
Gastronomy
Taste classic Rwandan dishes and local snacks from Southern Province kitchens.
Isombe
Cassava leaves stewed with peanut or palm oil, a beloved local dish.
Ibihaza
Pumpkin with beans, a hearty staple of southern tables.
Ubugali
Maize flour porridge served with stews for a comforting meal.
Nightlife
Evening bites and social spots around Huye and Nyanza.
Huye campus bars
Student-friendly spots near the university offering casual drinks and music.
Nyanza town venues
Low-key night spots where locals gather for music and conversation.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and performances highlight the region’s arts.
Traditional dance evenings in Nyanza
Evening performances featuring drumming and dance rooted in Rwandan folklore.
Cultural showcases near Huye
Short programs of crafts, music and storytelling for visitors.
Sports
Active pursuits in and around forest trails and rolling hills.
Forest hikes near Nyungwe
Moderate trails for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Canopy walkway excursions in Nyungwe
Partial re-entry; view wildlife and landscapes from elevated paths.
Off the Track
Hidden corners of the Southern Province worth a detour.
Tea plantation viewpoints near Ruhango
Panoramic views over tea estates and rolling hills.
Local village visits in Kibeho area
Glimpses of everyday rural life and hospitality outside the tourist routes.