Museums & galleries
Rwanda Art Museum
About the Museum
Opened in 2009, this museum is housed within a building that formerly served as the official residence of Rwanda's president. Travelers visit to view displays of contemporary visual art from Rwandan and African artists, as well as to see the architecture and grounds of the former presidential palace.
Getting There
The site is situated in the Kanombe area, east of central Kigali and adjacent to Kigali International Airport (KGL). A taxi or private car ride from the city centre takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Its location near the airport makes it convenient to visit on your way into or out of the city.
Time to Spend
Plan to allow 1 to 2 hours to tour the interior exhibits, walk through the historic rooms, and view the outdoor grounds at a steady pace.
When to Visit
Morning and early afternoon are the best times to visit for good natural light across the garden areas. The venue rarely sees large crowds, so you can expect a quiet visit without significant wait times. If visiting during rainy periods, consider bringing an umbrella for walking between the indoor galleries and the grounds.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine your visit with other points of interest in the surrounding area:
- Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park (3.7km)
- Muyumbu Genocide Memorial (7.8km)
- Campaign Against Genocide Museum (8.6km)
- Anti-corruption Monument of Rwanda (9km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors