Also known as Musanze Palace, the King’s Palace of Rwanda is one of the most vibrant historical sites. It is a prominent tourism destination in Rwanda, very popular for its beehive-like shape. The King’s Palace of Rwanda is also popularly known as the former Royal residence, and in the old gold days, the spot used to be Rwanda’s heart.
This beautiful spot is situated in Nyanza, the southern province of Rwanda. The magnificent historical site was established in 1931 and served as the residence of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, and later King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa. Nyanza was also commonly known as the land of political and battle struggles. It is the finest traditional Rwandan architecture with a touch of European influence characterized by Royal quarters, meeting halls, and courtyards.
It is also made of thatched roofs and wooden structures, giving it a beehive-like shape. Some of the noticeable tourist attractions that visitors might encounter while at the King’s royal palace may include historical photographs and documents, royal regalia and memorabilia, and traditional Rwandan artifacts like masks, jewelry, and drums.
The most exciting and remarkable tourist attraction that guests can’t wait to set their eyes on while at Nyanza, is the comely herd of cattle also known as the Inyambo cattle that are offsprings of the King’s herd. Back in the day, these were vital and played a remarkable role in the royal ceremonies. Nothing beats that unforgettable moment when the caretakers of these cattle are seen singing for them while the cattle march in line with these beautiful traditional songs. It’s also worth noting that these cattle share blood with the Ankore breed of the long-horned from Uganda.
The King’s Palace of Rwanda is one of the prominent spots and an extraordinary symbol showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and a keen representation of Rwanda’s monarchical history. It is therefore a vibrant tourism destination and education site in the country.
The spot is open for travelers and guests daily from the morning hours at around 8 am to 5 pm in the late evening. Visiting the King’s royal palace is quite affordable for all classes of visitors and goes for 15 USD, also RWF 10,000 as local currency, making it an opportunity for every visitor to have a touch of this finest historical site. Visitors are advised to combine their visit to the King’s palace with the nearby Ethnographic museum. Support local artisans on the other hand by purchasing traditional crafts. The prominent kingdom was later affected by colonial rule in 1962, but the symbol of the monarchy, the Inyambo cattle, stood strong to date.
What activities can be combined with a visit to the Nyanza king’s palace?
A visit to the Nyanza king’s palace located in Musanze district can be combined with other incredible adventures that would suit nature lovers and holidaymakers. These activities to combine the palace visit with include the following.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After a successful visit to the Nyanza king’s palace, visitors can proceed for approximately 2 hours to Volcanoes National Park. While at the park, visitors can take on a gorilla trekking adventure experience. During this experience, visitors can encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and spend an hour in their presence. These primates are the most sought-after species in the country since they can only be found in this region of the Virungas and not anywhere else in the world.
Kigali Genocide Memorial visit
Close to the Nyanza king’s palace, the Kigali Genocide Memorial can also be explored. This memorial is located on Gisozi Hill and it hosts the remains of over 250,000 Tutsi who were killed during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. The memorial has three sectors, one for the children who were killed, the second for adults, and the last for the other genocides that have happened across the world.
Visit the Rwanda Art Museum
Immerse yourself in the artistic life of Africa, ancient artifacts, and crafts with a visit to the Rwanda Art Museum. The museum brings out the art and crafts that define the country’s heritage and culture. The museum also shares an insight into the life of the former Rwanda president Juvenile Habyarimana as it was the former presidential palace. The museum also bears plane wreckage of the former president as it crashed while landing.
Explore the Museum for Campaign against Genocide
The Museum for the Campaign against Genocide can also be explored after a visit to the Nyanza king’s palace. This museum marked the beginning of the struggle to end genocide. This museum is located at the former parliamentary building and started when 300 soldiers were taking cover during the signing of the cease-fire treaty. On the orders of the chairman of the high command, the soldiers attacked the genocide government and threw it out, ending the genocide. Visitors can explore the museum and see how these events unfolded to bring peace to Rwanda.
