


Simba Supermarket
About
Simba Supermarket offers a convenient indoor play area perfect for keeping little ones entertained while parents shop or take a break from sightseeing in Kigali. Located in the Union Trade Centre, this family-friendly grocery store features climbing equipment and games designed for younger children, making it an ideal pit stop during your Rwandan adventure.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor climbing equipment perfect for burning energy on rainy days
- ✓Air-conditioned comfort, a relief from Kigali's tropical climate
- ✓Opportunity to shop for familiar international brands and unique Rwandan products
- ✓Safe, supervised play area within a modern shopping environment
- ✓Convenient location in central Kigali near other family attractions
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during weekday mornings (9-11 AM) when the play area is less crowded and you can shop for snacks and essentials without the weekend rush.
- 2.The Rwandan Franc is the local currency, but many larger stores accept US dollars. Bring small bills for any play area fees or purchases.
- 3.Stock up on bottled water, fresh tropical fruits, and local snacks here. It's a great way to experience a local supermarket while the kids play.
- 4.The Union Trade Centre has clean restroom facilities, making this a good stop for bathroom breaks during city exploration.
- 5.English is widely spoken in Kigali's shopping centers, though learning a few Kinyarwanda phrases like 'murakoze' (thank you) delights locals.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM offer the quietest shopping and play experience. Avoid weekends and late afternoons when local families do their weekly shopping, making both the store and play area busier.
What to Know
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The supermarket offers international and local products, with clean facilities and air conditioning throughout. The Union Trade Centre has parking available, and taxis or motorcycle taxis (moto) are easy to arrange for transportation.
Seasonal Notes
As an indoor facility, the play area is available year-round regardless of Rwanda's rainy seasons (March to May and October to December). The air-conditioned environment makes it especially appealing during hot or rainy weather.
Nearby Eats
The Union Trade Centre food court offers various quick dining options. For a proper family meal, head to Heaven Restaurant (about 10 minutes away), known for its garden setting and kid-friendly menu, or Repub Lounge which offers international cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
More Activities Near Kigali
Kigali Serena Hotel
The Kigali Serena Hotel offers a convenient indoor play facility perfect for families staying in Rwanda's capital or looking for a safe, comfortable environment where kids can burn energy. With slides, games, and various activities designed for younger children, plus access to hotel amenities, it's an excellent option for international families seeking a familiar, Western-style setting in Kigali.
Heaven Restaurant
Heaven Restaurant offers a welcoming escape for families visiting Kigali, combining delicious meals with breathtaking panoramic views of Rwanda's rolling hills. The dedicated kids' menu and relaxed atmosphere make it easy for parents to enjoy their meal while children feel comfortable and catered to, making it a perfect midday break during your Kigali adventures.
Repub Lounge
Repub Lounge offers a welcoming escape for traveling families in Kigali with a dedicated kids' menu and play area that keeps children entertained while parents enjoy a relaxed meal. The casual atmosphere makes it easy for families to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and the staff is accustomed to accommodating families with young children.
Kigali Central Library
Kigali Central Library offers a peaceful, educational escape in Rwanda's capital with a dedicated children's section and free family programs. This welcoming public library provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to explore books, participate in reading activities, and experience a community gathering space that celebrates literacy in a vibrant African city.