Best things to do in Southern Province

A rainforest bordering Burundi and the Congo, Nyungwe National Park is known for its dizzying canopy walk. This 90 m (295 ft) long narrow suspended platform 50 m (164 ft) above the grounds offers unmatched views of the abundant vegetation underneath. Take one of the well-maintained trails and see scenic waterfalls and Lake Kiwu. Lush forests host large populations of primates like chimps, leopards, blue monkeys, and duikers plus an array of birds and butterflies. In addition to the rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps, and bogs cover some 970 sq km (374 sq mi) of conservation area.

Educate yourself on the Rwandan people and culture with the collections of King's Palace Museum, where several halls house items coming from different aspects of life. Trace the evolution of traditional clothing and types of residences through the centuries, as well as how the people's agriculture, for example, has developed through the present. Built in 1989 with the help of the Belgian government, the museum also offers a detailed insight into the country's tumultuous history. Stop in the onsite shop to buy souvenirs and memorabilia.

Murambi Genocide Memorial Center, also known as the Murambi Technical School, represents the largest of six establishments in Rwanda to remember the country's genocide. Learn how the Tutsi were overrun in 1994 and about 45,000 were murdered by the Hutu Interahamwe militia. The massacre occurred after the Tutsi spent several days hiding in a school and defending themselves with stones. The following year, a memorial was established. You can now see a site containing mass graves as well as a genocide museum. Consider carefully if you want to take children to the site, as the museum exhibits skeletons and mummified bodies of victims. The museum also presents a children's memorial and an exhibit on the history of genocide around the world.

Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda displays weapons, instruments, clothing, and various artifacts used by native inhabitants in the pre-colonial era. On a guided tour see traditional clothing, cooking utensils, drums, tribal masks, and artwork with detailed and informative captions providing deep insight into Rwandan culture and tradition. In the divination section, learn more about mysterious divination techniques in Rwanda. Peruse the plants in the botanical garden, and enter the original traditional woven hut to imagine how people once lived.

Learn about the royal history of Rwanda at The Palace of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, built in the 1930s by the Belgians. Although much of the palace's furniture disappeared during the 1994 genocide, the home remains an interesting place with its three sitting rooms, one of which served for receiving only white guests.

A giant cross dominates the red brick exterior of Butare catholic Cathedral, built in the 1930s to commemorate Swedish Princess Astrid. Although unfinished, the long hallway in the interior, the arches, and the large windows give the structure an airy feel. Outside, observe the sculpture of Mary and enjoy the spacious garden. See if you can catch a service to hear the gospel choir.

Become part of the local scene while listening to music and spending time with the natives at Ahazaza Centre. The center, which serves to educate the youth of the area, hosts a couple of cultural events during the year and offers parties every Friday night where locals perform. Profit from the center's events and activities is invested into Ahazaza school, where they are trying to repress illiteracy among children, so you'll have the chance to experience the local vibe while helping those in need.