Kigali Travel Guide: Top Activities, Dining & Stays

The city of Kigali is very different from other urban centers in East Africa; it is hilly, very well organized, with perfectly maintained infrastructure and streets lined with gorgeous trees; it is also very safe; and unlike other African cities, it has a fair amount of things to do, so you should not skip it on your way to see the mountain gorillas in Akagera National Park or the Volcanoes National Park.

We hope to be able to convince you to come to Kigali and not just use it as a jumping-off point for your Rwanda travel. You might be surprised to learn that Rwanda, and more especially Kigali, is one of the cleanest towns in Africa, with perfectly maintained roads and a safe and clean environment. In this Kigali travel guide, we show you some of the top attractions in Kigali and some of the experiences that will add a special touch to your trip.

The city of Kigali is very different from other urban centers in East Africa

Kigali Travel - What To Do

If you are wondering what to do in Kigali, you have come to the correct place. There are many things to do in Kigali, including historic places, culturally significant monuments, stunning scenery, and exclusive boutique shopping.

Here is our list of the best things to do in Kigali:

1. Kigali Genocide Memorial

If you only have a few hours in Kigali, one of the best things to do is visit the Genocide Memorial. No trip to Rwanda or Kigali is complete without spending some quality time learning about the greatest human tragedy to affect the nation and one of the most horrible historical periods for Africa.

An introductory video featuring a few Rwandans whose lives were forever altered by the Genocide opens the visit. From there, you go to the main building where a number of exhibits and an audio guide take you on a chronological tour of events throughout the museum, from Belgian colonialism to the ongoing reconstruction efforts.

Within the museum, dedicated halls honor the genocide victims, showcasing over 100 photographs of individuals. Another section addresses global genocides, and a final hall is devoted to children.

2. Kimironko market

Visiting Kimironko Market is undoubtedly one of the outdoor activities in Kigali.

The vast Kimironko market complex offers a wide variety of goods for sale, including souvenirs and handicrafts, vibrant baskets, fabric and seamstresses ready to make you a dress, exotic fruits and fresh vegetables, and a wide range of other household items. Basically, you can find anything you might need here.

But the market is a true maze, and it is easy to get lost. If that happens to you, simply find an exit and head out, or use the services of a porter, who can show you around and return you to your car parking spot; they are easily recognized in the crowd by their yellow shirts bearing the cooperative's name and number on them.

Visiting Kimironko Market is undoubtedly one of the outdoor activities in Kigali

3. Presidential Palace and Museum

The museum, converted from the former president's residence, features intriguing exhibits, including a few "secret" rooms and an unusual presidential nightclub. Tourists are required to pay an entry fee of RWFM6000. 

The grounds contain the wreckage of Juvenal Habyarimana's presidential plane, which was shot down exactly over his garden wall. The gardens are maintained up nicely, but keep a watch out for a massive python that escaped when the plane crashed into the python pond.

4. Inema Arts Center

For art enthusiasts looking for something to do in Kigali, a visit to the Inema Arts Center, a multipurpose space that hosts concerts, art exhibitions, workshops, and performances, is highly recommended.

Emmanuel Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza, brothers who studied painting on their own, launched the center in 2012 with the goal of promoting Rwandan art. Thirteen artists in residence currently display their works, and a variety of interactive programs, including trainings and seminars, are offered.

5. Buy some Rwandan souvenirs

While shopping malls are not the main feature of Kigali—this is not Dubai or Singapore—there are a few unique items that you can bring back with you that will always bring back memories of your Kigali travel and Rwanda. One such item is the traditional agaseke baskets, which are woven baskets with a high cover and have a long history in Rwanda.

Agaseke baskets are among the most common household objects in Rwanda, having been in use for decades. At home, they are used to store anything from food to cash, and on important occasions, they are used to give gifts to people in the most respectable way possible.

Experience More: Explore Kigali Rwanda's Dynamic Urban Landscape

Kigali Travel - Where To Eat

Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Kigali that won't disappoint.

1. Heaven Restaurant

Located in one of Kigali's most elegant boutique hotels, Heaven Restaurant offers a fusion of international and local cuisine in a delightful garden setting. Founded by an American couple, the restaurant and hotel have been growing quickly, recently adding a shop featuring beautiful souvenirs and locally made goods like honey.

Heaven Restaurant is located in one of Kigali's most elegant boutique hotels

2. Repub Lounge

Repub Lounge is a favorite among both tourists and residents of Kigali, offering a variety of Rwandan dishes for sharing, including delectable fried plantains, sambaza (small fried fish from Lake Kivu), beef samosas, as well as chicken kebabs, burgers, steaks, and curries. The rear terrace provides a scenic city view and is an excellent location to savor evening cocktails accompanied by live music.

3. Poivre Noir

This upscale bistro in Kigali offers a refined and romantic dining experience in an elegant setting, featuring beautifully presented French-inspired dishes with fusion elements from Italy and other parts of Africa. The outdoor terrace provides sublime panoramic views.

Kigali Travel - Where To Stay

To help you select the ideal hotel, let us examine a list of the top hotels in Kigali, Rwanda.

1. Kigali Serena Hotel

Most East African cities and even safari destinations have this iconic East African hotel brand, which is owned by the Aga Khan Foundation.

You can expect good service, reliable quality, superbly comfortable rooms for business travelers, and convenient amenities. The food is also exceptional, especially the breakfast, with one of the largest portions you will ever see, all prepared by the kitchen team.

2. Heaven Boutique Hotel and The Retreat

The Retreat holds its own against larger chains or hotels. Despite its smaller size, the hotel boasts a pool, a fully equipped gym, a sauna, and a hot tub. Breakfast is provided at the renowned local restaurant, where hot dishes are prepared upon request.

3. Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center Kigali

The nearly 300-room hotel, together with a small shopping center and 5,000-seat conference center, are all designed with meetings and conventions in mind, and are prepared to provide business visitors with all they require.

Though it is a beautiful edifice and well worth a wander, this is probably not the greatest hotel to stay in Kigali if you are coming for a holiday, when a more local or homey hotel would make you feel more relaxed.

4. The Hotel des Milles Collines

Similar to the Kigali Serena Hotel in terms of air quality and standards, Hotel des Milles Collines boasts a conference center, large gardens with a pool, three restaurants, and a bar. Its location up on a hill gives it great views over the city. The rooms have balconies and can come with fantastic views.

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There are many accommodation options in Kigali for tourists

Kigali Travel - How To Get There

Kigali has an international airport, is currently undergoing renovations, and enjoys good connectivity to other African destinations. While there are no direct flights from the UK or US, many travelers opt for one-stop flights or arrive at Entebbe International Airport in Uganda. Additionally, it is feasible to reach Kigali by road from neighboring countries such as Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi.

Arrive early to avoid delays as every vehicle entering the airport zone is thoroughly checked. Kigali International Airport is about a 15-minute drive from central Kigali. Uniformed taxi drivers are plentiful around the airport and will zip you downtown for a negotiable fee of around Rwf10,000 (US$15).

In conclusion, Kigali, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and welcoming people, offers the adventure of a lifetime for enthusiasts seeking a unique and meaningful experience. Whether you're trekking through national parks, immersing yourself in the local culture, or savoring the flavors of Rwandan cuisine, Kigali is surely an adventure enthusiast's dream destination.

As you prepare to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in Kigali, consider streamlining your travel experience by applying for a Rwanda eVisa through Rwanda Immigration Services. Our user-friendly interface ensures that the application process is accessible to all users, providing clear instructions and a straightforward layout. We prioritize efficient processing, reducing waiting times to provide you with a prompt approval and peace of mind as you plan your journey. With 24/7 customer support, our dedicated team is ready to assist you with any questions or issues that may arise, ensuring you receive timely and reliable assistance.

So, pack your bags, contact us, and get ready to explore the wonders of Kigali, Rwanda.