AfricaPhoto by Jean Claude Akarikumutima on Unsplash
Kigali
Clean boulevards, strong Rwandan coffee, and vibrant craft markets.
Why visit
01 / 10The case for going
Rwanda's journey from a tragic past to a beacon of reconciliation and progress is palpable in Kigali's pristine streets and modern cafes.
While the Kigali Genocide Memorial offers a vital, sober reflection, the country now offers vibrant culture and unparalleled nature, from mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to sandy shores on Lake Kivu.
What to do
02 / 10Ways to spend a day
Activities €100–1500 total
- 01Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a somber but essential experience. Book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 02Explore local crafts and art at the Inema Arts Center or Kimironko Market. Book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 03Enjoy a cup of single-origin Rwandan coffee at a modern cafe in Kimihurura. Book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 04Undertake a gorilla trekking safari in Volcanoes National Park (Musanze). Book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 05Relax on the sandy beaches of Lake Kivu in Rubavu or take a boat trip. Book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
Book activities & tickets
Clean boulevards, strong Rwandan coffee, and vibrant craft markets.
Where to stay
03 / 10The right base
Accommodation €50–120/night
In Kigali
Kimihurura
leafy, trendy, excellent cafes and restaurants
Kiyovu
upscale, quiet, close to government offices
In Musanze
Musanze town
base for gorilla trekking, lively market town
In Rubavu
Rubavu
Lakeside town, access to Lake Kivu beaches
Find a place to stay
How to get there
04 / 10Easiest way in
Fly into:
- Kigali International Airport KGL
Plan the journey
How to get around
05 / 10Once you land
Within Kigali, moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis) are the fastest and cheapest, easily hailed or via apps like Yego. To Musanze or Rubavu, comfortable shared minibuses or private car hire offer efficient travel.
Get around
What to eat
06 / 10Order this
Food €20–40/day
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Brochettes
grilled meat skewers
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Ugali
maize flour porridge
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Isombe
cassava leaf stew
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Matoke
steamed green bananas
By the numbers
07 / 10Cards on the table
Safety index
82/100
General guide, not advisory data
Best seasons
Summer · Winter
When it's at its best
Stay for
6 days
The sweet spot
Daily spend
$$
Mid-range
How to fit in
08 / 10Read the room
Engage with locals at market stalls or while sharing a coffee to experience the city's quiet efficiency and friendliness. Sundays feature car-free days in parts of the city center, perfect for walking.
How to pack
09 / 10What goes in the bag
Best in Summer
Summer: dry and warm around 25-28C, with cooler evenings, ideal for outdoor activities and travel across the country.
- light, breathable clothing
- rain jacket for sudden showers
- sturdy hiking boots for gorilla trekking
- insect repellent
- sunscreen and hat
How to prepare
10 / 10The boring bits
Three things worth sorting before you fly.
Tomorrow's detour
One place worth the trip.
Curated destinations, one a day.