Kigali

Rwanda, Africa

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant city known for its cleanliness, remarkable hills, and rich culture. Visitors flock to the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a poignant history lesson, experience the lively local markets, and enjoy the stunning views from the Kigali Convention Centre. With a burgeoning food scene and nightlife, Kigali offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an appealing destination for young travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Kigali

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Kigali

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Mount Kigali

Get panoramic views of the city from above.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Inema Art Center

Discover contemporary Rwandan art and culture.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial

A profound tribute to the victims of the genocide.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Nyamirambo Women's Center

Engage with local women through community tours.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a food market

Savor authentic Rwandan dishes in vibrant settings.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Kigali Convention Centre

Marvel at the iconic architecture and gardens.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Caplaki Crafts Village

Find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a city tour on a motorbike

Experience Kigali's sights from a different perspective.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Presidential Palace Museum

Discover Rwanda’s political history and heritage.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a traditional dance performance

Experience Rwanda's cultural heritage through dance.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Rwanda Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Kinyarwanda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, popular snack. (National dish)

Ugali

VE

Starchy maize porridge, staple food.

Isombe

VE

Cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts.

Matoke

VE

Steamed green bananas, often served with sauce.

Ibihaza

VE

Pumpkin pieces, often cooked or mashed.

Phrases to learn

English

Kinyarwanda

Hello

Muraho

(Moo-rah-ho)

Yes/No

Yego / Oya

(Yeh-go / Oh-yah)

Thank you

Urakoze

(Oo-rah-koh-zeh)

Excuse me

Mbabarira

(M-bah-bah-ree-rah)

How much?

Angahe?

(Ahn-gah-heh)