Overview

Join a meaningful Kibeho pilgrimage tour Rwanda experience and travel through the beautiful southern countryside to one of Africa’s most significant Catholic pilgrimage destinations. Visit sacred sites connected with Our Lady of Kibeho, attend Mass when available and learn about the messages of prayer, repentance and conversion associated with the apparitions. This peaceful day journey offers pilgrims time for worship, personal reflection and a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s spiritual heritage.

Discover the Marian Apparition in Rwanda at Our Lady of Kibeho

Take an inspiring Our Lady of Kibeho pilgrimage tour to the place where the first reported Marian apparition in Rwanda occurred on 28 November 1981. Explore the shrine, apparition site and other important religious landmarks while learning about Alphonsine Mumureke, Nathalie Mukamazimpaka and Marie Claire Mukangango—the three visionaries whose accounts were recognised as authentic by the local Bishop of Gikongoro in 2001.

What to Expect on the Kibeho Pilgrimage 

The Kibeho pilgrimage begins with an early departure from Kigali and a scenic drive of around four hours to southern Rwanda. On arrival, pilgrims can attend Mass (subject to availability) and visit important religious sites, including the Basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows, the Shrine of Our Lady of Kibeho, the statue of Our Lady of Kibeho and Nyarushishi Hill.

The visit is not only about sightseeing. It provides time for prayer, reflection and learning about the history of the reported Marian apparitions. Depending on the shrine programme and available time, pilgrims may also visit additional sites before having lunch and returning to Kigali.

Visitors should wear modest, comfortable clothing and suitable shoes, particularly if they plan to explore several sites during the day.

Why Is Kibeho Important to Catholic Pilgrims? 

Kibeho is important to Catholic pilgrims because it is associated with reported Marian apparitions that began on 28 November 1981. The Catholic Church recognised the apparitions involving three visionaries—Alphonsine Mumureke, Nathalie Mukamazimpaka and Marie Claire Mukangango—following a long period of investigation.

The reported messages associated with Kibeho emphasised prayer, repentance and conversion, which continue to shape the spiritual significance of the site. Today, pilgrims visit Kibeho to pray, attend Mass, reflect on their faith and learn about the history of the apparitions.

For Catholic visitors, the Shrine of Our Lady of Kibeho and Basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows provide important places for worship and reflection. The site also attracts visitors interested in Rwanda’s religious and cultural heritage.