A place of remembrance,
and of resilience.
The final resting place for over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and a cornerstone of Rwanda’s journey toward healing.
Overview
Set on a hillside in Gisozi, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is both a burial ground and a place of learning. Inaugurated in 2004, it holds the remains of more than 250,000 people, many of whose names and stories are still being gathered and documented today. Beyond its role as a memorial, the site serves as an educational center — helping visitors understand the history that led to the genocide, the events of the 100 days in 1994, and Rwanda’s remarkable path toward justice, reconciliation and renewal in the decades since.
For most visitors, this is not simply a stop on an itinerary but an essential part of understanding the Rwanda they’re about to explore — the history behind the country’s culture, its people, and its extraordinary resilience.
What You'll Experience
The main exhibition — A three-part narrative covering Rwandan history before the genocide, the genocide itself, and the country’s ongoing journey of justice and reconciliation, told through photographs, testimonies and personal artifacts.
The Children’s Memorial — A deeply moving section honoring the youngest victims, sharing their names, favorite games, and the futures they were denied.
Memorial gardens — Quiet, beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the burial grounds, offering space for reflection.
The Wall of Names — An ongoing tribute recording the names of victims, still being added to as more are documented.