Things To Do
in Butare
Butare, also known as Huye, is a vibrant town located in the Southern Province of Rwanda. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and is home to the National Museum of Rwanda, showcasing the country's history and traditions. Butare's lush surroundings and hilly landscapes provide stunning views and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
The town is a center for education and research, hosting the University of Rwanda and several other institutions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the National Museum of Rwanda to learn about the country's history, art, and culture.
Explore the local markets, including the vibrant Huye Market, where you can find crafts and fresh produce.
Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Rwandan dishes.
Take a guided hike in the nearby Nyungwe National Park to see the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Visit the tea plantations around Butare and learn about the tea production process.
Relax at a café, enjoying a cup of Rwandan coffee while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $5-$10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-$2 |
| 🚖Taxi Ride | $2-$5 |
| 🛍️Local Craft Souvenir | $3-$15 |
| 🍌Fresh Fruit | $0.50-$2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport can be unreliable.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Kinyarwanda speakers.
- "Muraho" - Hello
- "Urakoze" - Thank you
- "Ndi mwiza" - I am fine
- "Ongera" - Please
- "Ndagukunda" - I love you
Places to Visit in Butare
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking natural reserve with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes.
The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens offer great photography opportunities.
The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the market provide fantastic street photography scenes.
Food in Butare
Butare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made from cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts and spices.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat skewers, often served with a spicy sauce, popular in street food culture.
Roasted or grilled pork, seasoned with local spices, often served with plantains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food vendors offering a variety of snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people warmly; handshakes are common, often accompanied by friendly conversation.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites, to show respect.
Show respect to older individuals by using appropriate greetings and gestures.
Safety
Tipping in Butare
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill.
Most places accept cash in Rwandan Francs; however, some restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and hiking in Nyungwe.
Frequent rains can occur, especially in April, so pack waterproof gear and be cautious of muddy paths.
A great time to enjoy fresh produce and local festivities celebrating the harvest.
Temperatures can drop, especially at night, so bring layers for comfort.
Butare at Night
Hiking in Butare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail offers a moderate hike through dense forest, leading to stunning views of the surrounding hills.
A popular hiking spot that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Butare and the adjacent landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Butare by plane.
Located approximately 90 km from Butare, Kamembe Airport offers domestic flights to Kigali and other regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Rwanda, Kinyarwanda speakers make up a significant portion of Butare's population.
With the presence of the University of Rwanda, Butare has a large demographic of students and academics, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Butare, with many local teams and community matches throughout the year.
Basketball is also widely played, especially among the youth, with several courts available in the town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Butare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with rice, beans, and vegetables widely available.
While traditional Rwandan cuisine is mostly gluten-free, be sure to ask about specific dishes.