Things To Do
in Kigali
Nestled within the heart of Rwanda, Kigali is celebrated for its clean streets, green initiatives, and vibrant culture, making it one of the most liveable cities in Africa. The city exemplifies remarkable growth and recovery, standing as a testament to Rwanda's resilience and determination following the 1994 genocide.
With a dynamic mix of traditional markets, modern amenities, and memorial sites, Kigali offers a unique blend of historical insights and contemporary African life.
- "Muraho" - Hello
- "Ongera" - Please
- "Urakoze" - Thank you
- "Ni meza" - It's good
- "Muzogera he?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand the country's past. Reflect on the stories and artifacts that tell the tale of resilience.
Explore the local galleries at Inema Arts Center, showcasing contemporary Rwandan art. Engage with artists and appreciate their creative process.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that serves traditional Rwandan dishes. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local music.
Take an early morning trip to the Nyamata Church for a poignant glimpse into history. Join a guided tour to learn about this significant site.
Go to the Kigali City Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Relax at the rooftop café with a refreshing drink.
Head to a local bar for drinks and live music. Immerse yourself in the lively nightlife that Kigali has to offer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Clean and well-maintained environment with strict laws against littering
- Low crime rate and a sense of safety in the city
- Rapid economic growth and development, making it a hub for business in East Africa
- Friendly and welcoming locals, known for their hospitality
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and proximity to stunning landscapes
- Investments in technology and infrastructure, promoting innovation and modern living
- High cost of living compared to other East African cities
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Language barrier for those who do not speak Kinyarwanda or French
- Public transportation can be limited, making it necessary to rely on taxis or personal vehicles
- Occasional heavy rain during rainy seasons, which can disrupt daily activities
- Some bureaucratic challenges for expatriates and foreign businesses
Best Activities in Kigali
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Located about 2 hours from Kigali, this park offers gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and beautiful mountain scenery.
A haven for nature enthusiasts, offering hiking, canopy walks, birdwatching, and chimpanzee trekking.
An important historical site that commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide, providing a sobering and educational experience.
A vibrant local market where visitors can experience the bustling atmosphere, shop for traditional crafts, and sample Rwandan cuisine.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kigali with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kigali
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, making it a great spot for photography.
Provides a stunning vantage point overlooking the city, perfect for capturing aerial shots of Kigali.
Features beautiful outdoor artwork and colorful murals that serve as a backdrop for unique photos.
Food in Kigali
Kigali Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled skewers of marinated meat (beef, goat, or chicken) often served with a side of salad and french fries. Try at Repub Lounge or local street grills.
Must-Try!
A staple dish made from maize flour, similar to polenta, served with a variety of stews. Available at most local eateries and markets.
A traditional Rwandan dish made from cassava leaves, often cooked with peanut sauce and served with a side of rice. Best sampled at local restaurants like Heaven Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kigali better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Kigali's largest markets offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and local snacks like samosas and mandazi.
Known for its vibrant street food scene, offering a variety of local delicacies like deep-fried sambusas, grilled maize, and skewered meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kigali, it is common to greet people with a handshake and a polite exchange of pleasantries. Using appropriate titles like 'Mister' or 'Madam' is also considered respectful.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Rwandan culture. It is important to show deference and speak with respect when interacting with older individuals.
Dressing modestly is encouraged in Kigali, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities. It is respectful to dress in a manner that is not overly revealing.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kigali with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kigali
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Rwanda, including Kigali. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. It is not expected to leave an additional tip in such cases.
In Kigali, Rwanda, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions, although major establishments may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller denominations, for convenience. Mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are also popular for making payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kigali.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kigali with clear skies and lower chance of rainfall. Temperatures are cooler and it's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall during this period, with lush greenery and blooming flowers. It's the low season for tourism, so there are fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.
This period experiences shorter bursts of rainfall, but it's still a good time to visit if you don't mind occasional showers. The landscape is vibrant and the weather is generally pleasant.
Kigali at Night
Hiking in Kigali
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Kigali and the surrounding areas, with well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels.
This mountain provides a moderately challenging hike with cultural insights, as you can explore the local neighborhood during the ascent.
Located on the outskirts of Kigali, Jali Hill offers relatively easy hiking trails and beautiful views of the city and lush scenery.
An easy hiking spot with a scenic loop around the lake, ideal for a leisurely walk or a perfect picnic area.
While a bit further from Kigali, this beach offers beautiful hikes along the shores of Lake Kivu, with opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kigali through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kigali by plane.
The primary airport serving Kigali, Rwanda, and the main entry point for international flights.
Located in Uganda, approximately 375 km from Kigali, it's a major international airport serving the country.
Situated in Nairobi, Kenya, about 800 km from Kigali, it's one of the busiest airports in Africa.
This airport serves Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, located approximately 1,500 km from Kigali, and is a hub for international travel.
Located in Bujumbura, Burundi, about 300 km from Kigali, it is the main airport serving Burundi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Kigali speaks Kinyarwanda, the national language of Rwanda.
A significant portion of Kigali’s demographic is composed of youth, with a large number of individuals under the age of 30.
Kigali has a growing community of expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the city’s multicultural environment.
Women constitute a substantial demographic in Kigali, with various initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and female empowerment.
The elderly demographic in Kigali is smaller compared to youth but is supported by community services aimed at enhancing their quality of life.
A portion of Kigali's population lives in low-income households, facing economic challenges yet benefiting from government and NGO support.
An emerging middle-class demographic is observed in Kigali, enjoying improved living standards and access to education and healthcare.
The Soul of Kigali
Discover the essence of Kigali through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Kigali and Rwanda as a whole. The country has a strong football culture with various leagues and clubs, and the national team competes in international tournaments.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Kigali, with numerous local leagues and an increasing number of young players. The sport is supported by organizations and events that promote its growth.
Volleyball is widely played in Kigali, both recreationally and competitively. The sport is popular among both men and women, with several clubs and schools actively participating in tournaments.
Rugby is an emerging sport in Kigali, attracting a dedicated following. There are several clubs and the national team participates in regional competitions, fostering a growing interest in the sport.
Athletics, including running and field events, is popular in Kigali, with many athletes participating in local competitions and international events. The city hosts several running events that attract participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kigali.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kigali offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a growing number of dedicated vegetarian-friendly eateries like Hello Food.
While not as prevalent, some restaurants in Kigali, especially those with international cuisines, offer gluten-free options. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kigali with these cultural adventures.
