Kigali’s best drinking tours offer fascinating insights into Rwanda’s traditional and modern beverage culture.
The standout Banana Beer Brewery tour takes you straight to the source, where you’ll walk through banana plantations and learn the centuries-old brewing techniques hands-on. We love this authentic experience for its culture and the chance to taste truly local brews.
The Coffee Brewing Class is another gem, taught by certified Specialty Coffee Association experts.
This educational session stands out for its professional instruction and opportunity to master Rwanda’s premium coffee crafting techniques.
Check out our carefully selected top tours below.
Good To Know
- Kigali’s drinking tours offer immersive experiences into Rwanda’s traditional and modern beverage culture, including a Banana Beer Brewery tour and a Coffee Brewing Class.
- The Banana Beer Brewery tour provides a hands-on learning experience in the traditional brewing practices of banana beer, with the final product enjoyed in a local pub.
- The Coffee Brewing Class is a personalized, hands-on workshop that covers brewing techniques using various equipment and allows participants to taste local roasts and receive home brewing recipes.
- Both tours are highly rated for their quality and cultural significance, providing an opportunity for travelers to connect with local experts and artisans.
- While the tours are not wheelchair accessible, they cater to various fitness levels and offer free cancellation and complimentary transportation.
Banana Beer Brewery
The Banana Beer Brewery offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Rwanda’s traditional brewing practices. This half-day tour focuses on the time-honored art of making banana juice, a beloved local beverage.
Participants learn the process firsthand, starting with a walk through lush banana groves to collect the key ingredients – green bananas and leaves for ripening.
Back at the brewery, the group works together to peel, mash, and strain the bananas, transforming them into a refreshing juice. The tour culminates with enjoying the final product at a local pub, while taking in the stunning views of Volcanoes National Park.
With a maximum group size of 12, this intimate experience provides a chance to take in Rwandan culture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers with a moderate fitness level. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and complimentary transportation from hotels make this banana beer experience a convenient and worthwhile addition to any Kigali itinerary.
Read our full review: Banana Beer Brewery Review
Book now: Check availability
Coffee Brewing Class in Rwanda
Budding coffee enthusiasts visiting Kigali can dive into the art of brewing the perfect cup at the Coffee Brewing Class. Located in the heart of Kigali, the hands-on workshop offers a small-group experience for a maximum of six participants.
Led by an Authorized Specialty Coffee Association Trainer, the class covers in-depth coffee knowledge and brewing skills using five types of equipment, including the French press, AeroPress, and drip coffee maker.
Participants will have the opportunity to taste local roasts and receive recipes to recreate their favorite brews at home.
The class is held on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 AM to 4 PM, with prices starting at $35 per person. Accessibility is limited, as the class isn’t wheelchair-accessible but stroller-accessible and near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps.
With a perfect 5-star rating from Viator and TripAdvisor reviews, the Coffee Brewing Class is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts visiting Rwanda.
Read our full review: Coffee Brewing Class in Rwanda Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
How Long Does the Brewery Tour Typically Last?
The brewery tour typically lasts around 1-2 hours, allowing visitors to explore the production process and sample the brewery’s offerings. The duration may vary depending on the specific tour and the number of participants.
What Is the Dress Code for the Coffee Brewing Class?
The dress code for the coffee brewing class is casual. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as the class may involve some hands-on activities. No formal attire is required.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Drinking Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for drinking tours, but participants under the legal drinking age may not be able to sample all the beverages. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policies.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Beverages to the Events?
Participants can usually bring their own beverages to drinking tour events, though the tour operators may have restrictions on the types or amounts of outside alcohol allowed. It’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand.
Are the Tours Available on Weekends and Holidays?
The tours are generally available on weekends and holidays, though it’s best to check with the tour operator for specific scheduling. Many offer flexible scheduling to accommodate visitors’ availability.
Worth The Stay
Kigali offers a variety of engaging drinking tours for visitors. The Banana Beer Brewery provides a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Rwandan brewing methods. Alongside this, the Coffee Brewing Class in Rwanda allows travelers to gain insight into the country’s renowned coffee culture. These experiences offer an immersive and educational way to explore Kigali’s vibrant drinking scene.