ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM TRAVEL GUIDE, RWANDA

A gift from Belgium’s King Badouin in the late 1980s, the Ethnographic Museum now houses one of Africa’s finest ethnographic collections.

Seven galleries display historical, ethnographic, artistic and archaeological artefacts accompanied by visual aides, giving visitors a rich insight into the Rwandan culture.

The exhibits open with geographical and geological displays, moving on to items used in hunting, agriculture, animal husbandry, pottery, weaving and woodwork.

Traditional clothing and architectural methods are also illustrated, as well as the social importance of cattle. Descendants of the royal herd can be seen to this day at the King’s Palace in nearby Nyanza.

The final room reveals traditional customs and beliefs, history, culture, poetry and oral tradition and cosmology.

There’s also a highly regarded craft centre on site.

Location of Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda

The Ethnographic Museum, also known as the National Museum of Rwanda, is located in the town of Huye, formerly known as Butare, in the Southern Province of Rwanda.

Geographical Position of the Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda

Huye Town: The museum is situated in Huye, which is approximately 135 kilometers (about 84 miles) south of Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. This makes it accessible for both locals and tourists traveling from the capital.

Proximity to Major Landmarks: Huye is a significant town in Rwanda, known for its educational institutions, including the University of Rwanda. The museum is located near these institutions, enhancing its accessibility and importance.

Address and Coordinates of the Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda:

Address: NR1, Huye, Southern Province, Rwanda.

Coordinates: The geographical coordinates are approximately 2°35'19"S latitude and 29°44'42"E longitude.

The Ethnographic Museum Accessibility

By Car or Taxi: The easiest way to reach the museum is by car or taxi. The drive from Kigali to Huye takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Public Transport: For those using public transport, there are regular bus services from Kigali to Huye. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours, and the museum is a short distance from the main bus station in Huye.

The Ethnographic Museum's location in Huye, Southern Province, makes it a significant and accessible site for those interested in exploring Rwanda's cultural heritage. Its proximity to major educational institutions and ease of access by car, taxi, or public transport ensures that visitors can easily reach this important museum.

History of the Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda

The Ethnographic Museum, formerly known as the National Museum of Rwanda, traces its origins back to the late 1980s. This museum was a gift from Belgium's King Baudouin I to Rwanda and was officially opened in 1989.

The museum's construction was supported by the Belgian government, making it a symbol of cooperation between the two nations. The Ethnographic Museum quickly became the most prominent museum in Rwanda, housing a vast collection of historical, ethnographic, artistic, and archaeological artifacts.

The museum's significance was tragically underscored during the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. The Ethnographic Museum became the site of the tragic murder of Queen Dowager Rosalie Gicanda and several others. This event added a layer of somber historical importance to the museum.

Despite this dark chapter, the Ethnographic Museum continues to serve as a vital cultural institution. The museum offers visitors a comprehensive look into Rwanda's rich history, diverse cultures, and artistic traditions. Its collections and exhibits provide valuable insights into the country's past and present, making it a significant destination for both locals and international visitors.

Opening Times of the Ethnographic Museum, Rwanda

The museum is open daily from 8am to 6pm. This attrction is always closed on 7th of April. On every last Saturday of the month, the Ethnographic Museum is closed from 11am to 6pm.