Overview
Learn about traditional building techniques, some of them used since the times of the King. Experience the traditional ways of construction in Rwanda with a local community for a day.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Local guide
Transport from Muhanga (Gitarama) Town to the Village
Bottled water
Lunch
Local taxes
Gratuities
All activities
Transportation to/from Kigali, however, this can be arranged for an additional charge
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Coming from Kigali as you enter Muhanga/Gitarama you will the prison on your left. After 30 metres there is a road forking off to your right; ignore this. Keep going on the main road about 100 metres further on the left hand-side of the road you will see the Azizi Life sign.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
How to prepare for your visit
• Men may wear trousers or shorts. Women should wear trousers or a skirt that covers the knees as Rwandan women usually don’t show their knees.
• Traditionally, the soil for mud bricks is prepared by treading water into it barefoot. You may choose to participate in this practice, but know that it is at your own risk.
• You might consider wearing or bringing a long-sleeved shirt in case you cut grass for animals, as this can irritate the skin.
• We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes: Walking shoes are useful on the paths, which can be steep and slippery. You might want to bring a spare pair of shoes, as one pair may get muddy if you work in the fields.
• Be prepared to spend time in the sun.
• Bring a camera or video camera if you wish: the artisans and their families won’t mind.
• There will be a translator with you: feel free to ask as many questions as you wish.
• Please let us know in advance if you have any food allergies. Food served may contain nuts.
• Ensure that you have health insurance to cover your visit. We do all we can to ensure your safety during your visit. In the case of an accident, we will ensure you get appropriate medical attention. However, you must cover the costs through your insurance.You should also know that:
• Some of the paths are steep and can be slippery after rain, but you will be given a hand if you need it.
• The food is thoroughly cooked: no previous visitors have become ill after eating it. However, if you prefer not to eat, or to eat just a little, you will not offend your host.
• Each house has a pit latrine.
• We take a first aid kit, hand sanitizer and toilet paper.
• Your hosts are a lovely group of women, young and older. They and their families will make you feel welcome, without making a fuss. They know that you are coming to gain an understanding of what rural life is like in Rwanda and will encourage you to join in with their daily routine.
What to expect
-
Azizi Life Experiences
8 hours
The day starts with a briefing at the office before heading to the village be welcome by the artisans and go to the family home of the artisan who is your host for the day. In the morning you will fetch water or help with food preparation. Then it is into learning rural construction techniques including making rope from banana tree and bricks from mud. The artisans will show you how to do the activity and will work alongside you.
Then you have Lunch (typical Rwandan dishes e.g. cassava and beans). This is a good time to ask your hosts about life in their community. They may have questions for you too about life in your home country.
In the afternoon you can will use the traditional techniques learnt in the morning to build domestic animal’s shade, a fence or a house.
Then go back to the office for a cold drink and you will have the opportunity to shop for gifts and souvenirs. We have a wide range of high quality handicrafts for sale, including those made by the artisans you visit.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Africa/Kigali).
Additional Information
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Experience Traditional Construction
Can I cancel Experience Traditional Construction for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 5–8 hours.
Where does it start?
Coming from Kigali as you enter Muhanga/Gitarama you will the prison on your left. After 30 metres there is a road forking off to your right; ignore this.
What's included?
- Local guide
- Transport from Muhanga (Gitarama) Town to the Village
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Local taxes
- Gratuities
- All activities
What's not included?
- Transportation to/from Kigali, however, this can be arranged for an additional charge
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, French.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Azizi Life
