Tours & experiences

Imigongo (cow dung art) Experience

About this experience

Years ago in the time of the Rwandan Kings, there once was a prince who decided to decorate his house by molding geometric shapes onto the wall of his hut using cow dung.  In time, this technique was developed into a popular form of traditional Rwandan art called “Imigongo.”  During your Experience, you will learn the history and technique of Imigongo art and then make your own piece to take away with you.

At a glance

  • Duration: 8 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Imigongo (cow dung art) Experience
Duration: 6 hours: Standard time for workshop but timing is flexible
Lunch and Water: Traditional Meal with the family plus bottled water throughout the day

Plan your experience

Time on the tour8 hr
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), French (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Local guide
  • Bottled water
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Tour host

Not included

  • Transportation from Kigali (but this can be aranged on request for an additional charge)
  • Items at the gift shop

Itinerary and highlights

On Arrivial you meet the artisans and learn a little of the History of Imigongo Art. Then its time to start making your own buy building the foundation from a mixture of mud and cow dung!

At noontime, you’ll share a simple local meal with your artisan teacher, with plenty of time to chat and learn about each other’s lives. After lunch, it is back to your own work of art with sanding and painting.  You will love being with the artisan, and we can assure you whilst you work together you will also be laughing together.

The day finishes with a cold Fanta and a chance to think back over the highlights of the day whilst also shopping for some souvenirs in the fair trade gift shop.

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • 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.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • French — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Azizi Life

Accessibility and practical details

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 8 hr.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), French (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 6–12; Youth tickets: age 13–16; Adult tickets: age 17+; Senior tickets: age 96+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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