Caplaki Craft Village

Caplaki Craft Village – A Must-Visit Handcraft Centre in Kigali, Rwanda

Caplaki Craft Village is one of Kigali’s most vibrant and culturally rich attractions, a treasure trove of authentic Rwandan handcrafts and East African artistry. Located just a few minutes from the heart of the city, Caplaki is more than just a souvenir stop; it’s a celebration of Rwanda’s creative spirit and a perfect place to connect with the region’s traditions through tangible works of art.

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in Rwanda’s cultural heritage, Caplaki Craft Village should top your list during a Kigali city tour. Whether you’re wrapping up your gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park or beginning your journey into Rwanda’s historical and artistic experiences, Caplaki offers a relaxing yet inspiring atmosphere that blends shopping, storytelling, and craftsmanship.

What You’ll Find at Caplaki Craft Village

Caplaki brings together numerous artisan stalls under a colorful collection of wooden huts, each representing the unique styles and talents of individual artists from across Rwanda and neighboring countries. You will find a wide selection of:

  • Traditional wood carvings – statues, masks, and symbolic figures from Rwanda and Congo

  • Intricately woven baskets – including the famous Agaseke peace baskets, ideal for decor or gifting

  • Handmade jewelry – from beaded necklaces to earrings crafted with local materials

  • Ceramic pieces and pottery – both traditional and contemporary designs

  • Textiles and embroidery – vibrant kitenge fabrics, hand-loomed scarves, and embroidered shirts

  • Paintings and wall art – reflecting Rwandan history, wildlife, and daily life

  • Leather goods and home décor items – ethically made and creatively designed

Many of the items sold here are made using sustainable and locally sourced materials, making each purchase meaningful and eco-conscious.

Support Local Artisans While Shopping With Purpose

Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, the items at Caplaki Craft Village are handcrafted by skilled artisans who pour stories, culture, and community values into every piece. By shopping here, you directly support local families and preserve traditional Rwandan crafts.

It’s also a great place to meet the artists themselves, hear the inspiration behind their work, and even request customized pieces if you’re looking for something more personal. The atmosphere is warm, and bargaining is welcome—making the shopping experience feel more like a cultural exchange than a commercial transaction.

Beyond Rwanda – A Regional Handicraft Hub

Though based in Kigali, Caplaki’s cultural reach extends beyond Rwanda. You’ll also find:

  • Carvings and tribal masks from the Democratic Republic of Congo

  • Unique basketry from Uganda

  • Beaded accessories and decorative crafts from Kenya

This makes Caplaki one of the rare places in East Africa where you can experience a cross-border blend of cultures through art—all in one convenient stop.

How to Visit Caplaki Craft Village

Caplaki Craft Village is located in the Kiyovu area of Kigali, easily accessible by road. Most visitors include it as part of a half-day or full-day Kigali city tour, especially after visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kandt House Museum, or Kimironko Market.

At Animal View Safaris, we include Caplaki Craft Village in our Kigali city tours as a perfect cultural stop for travelers who love to collect memories through meaningful souvenirs.

  • Open daily
  • Entry is free
  • Accepts both cash and mobile payments
  • On-site parking available
  • Most vendors speak English or French

You can also reach out in advance for special group visits or to arrange purchases online if you’re not able to carry larger items with you during your tour.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Caplaki During Your Rwanda Safari

  • It’s authentic – real crafts by real people

  • It’s affordable – with room for negotiation

  • It’s inspiring – a cultural learning moment through art

  • It’s convenient – centrally located in Kigali and perfect before or after a wildlife safari

For visitors who care about more than just sightseeing, Caplaki Craft Village offers a meaningful connection to Rwanda’s soul through handcrafted beauty.

Combine Cultural & Wildlife Experiences with Animal View Safaris

At Animal View Safaris, we help you go beyond the ordinary. From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to cultural immersion in Kigali’s top attractions like Caplaki, we craft journeys that celebrate both nature and heritage.

Contact us to include Caplaki Craft Village in your custom Kigali City Tour, or let us design a full Rwanda itinerary blending wildlife, history, art, and unforgettable memories.