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Kigali Holidays
Kigali, the charming capital of Rwanda is a thriving cosmopolitan city and urban centre considered as one of the safest and cleanest travel destinations in Africa. The city is filled with culture, history, impressive art, and exotic cuisine, not to mention a dynamic night scene. If you’re looking for somewhere unique to visit that isn’t bombarded by tourists, then Kigali Rwanda could be the travel hotspot for you, and we have great offers on Kigali holiday packages.
Rwanda as a country has a rich cultural heritage and Kigali city is the country’s cultural centre with a diverse population that includes people from various ethnic backgrounds. Experience this cultural richness through traditional dance performances, art galleries, and local markets. Despite being a bustling urban centre, Kigali is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning panoramic views of the countryside.
Map of Kigali
Local Information & Travel Tips
Safety Tips
Is Kigali safe?
Rwanda has a low crime rate and is relatively safe, however there are cases of petty theft and pickpocketing. To reduce any risks posed to yourself, we advise that you take care and keep an eye on your surroundings when walking at night, avoid carrying valuables and large amounts of money, and don’t leave valuables in parked cars.
We also advise that you keep up to date with local news in Kigali and follow any advice given from local authorities.
Accommodation in Kigali
You’ll be able to choose from a variety of accommodation options in Kigali, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Hotels
From international chains to boutique hotels, you'll find a range of hotels in Kigali that offer amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, spas, and health centres. Some of our top hotel choices include Park inn by Radisson Kigali, the Kigali Marriott hotel, and the Kigali Serena Hotel.
Apartments
Serviced apartments are a great option for longer stays or for those who prefer more space and privacy. These apartments come fully furnished and are equipped with kitchen and laundry facilities.
Hostels
Hostels are ideal for those on a budget looking for affordable accommodation. Kigali has a few hostels that offer dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms. Hostels often provide communal areas where guests can socialise and take advantage of kitchen facilities for self-catering.
Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)
B&Bs provide a homely atmosphere with comfortable rooms and breakfast included. They are usually smaller establishments run by local hosts, offering insights into Kigali’s local culture and hospitality.
Eco-Lodges
There are a few eco-lodges located in or near Kigali. These sustainable lodges focus on minimising their environmental impact while providing comfortable lodging options. One such accommodation is The Retreat, which is the city’s first completely eco-friendly solar powered resort.
Things to Do and See in Kigali
Must-Visit Attractions
Kigali Genocide Memorial
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place of the victims who lost their lives during Rwanda’s 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. There’s an enlightening museum here offering an insight into this historic tragedy.
Caplaki Craft Village
This bustling market is a great place to shop for locally made crafts, including traditional Rwandan textiles, baskets, pottery, and wood carvings. It's also an excellent spot to pick up souvenirs and support local artisans.
Kimironko Market
One of Kigali's largest markets, Kimironko Market offers a lively atmosphere and a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, clothing, and household items. It's a great place to experience everyday life in Kigali and sample local snacks.
Inema Arts Centre
This contemporary art gallery showcases the work of Rwandan artists and provides a space for creative expression and cultural exchange. Admire paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media installations and enjoy fun, educational workshops.
Nyamirambo
This trendy neighbourhood offers a glimpse into Kigali's multicultural heritage, with local markets, colourful streets, and diverse communities. Explore the area on foot or join guided tours to learn about the neighbourhood’s history, culture, and culinary traditions.
Rwanda Art Museum
Housed in the former presidential palace, this museum showcases Rwandan art and culture through a collection of traditional and contemporary artworks and offers insights into Rwanda's political history and the life of former president Juvénal Habyarimana.
Mount Kigali
Mount Kigali is a prominent hill in the heart of Kigali, offering outdoor activities and stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Here you can take hikes to the mountain summit, experience bird watching, and enjoy a picnic amidst stunning nature.
Day Trip Opportunities
Volcanoes National Park
A trip to Kigali is not complete without taking a daytrip to the Volcanos National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorilla. There are also extinct volcanoes to marvel at here, two of which can be climbed up if you’re feeling brave. A visit to this park really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s located around 2-2.5 hours’ drive from Kigali.
Less than 30 minutes' drive from the Volcanoes National Park is the Musanze Cave, allowing you to enjoy and explore two phenomenal destinations on one day trip.
Akagera National Park
Approx. 2.5 hours' drive from Kigali is the Akagera National Park, a safari destination known for its beautiful native wildlife including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Here you can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and birdwatching tours.
Rwanda Cultural Heritage Sites
Explore Rwanda's rich cultural heritage with visits to cultural sites such as the King's Palace Museum in Nyanza, the Ethnographic Museum in Butare, and the Ivuka Arts centre. These sites offer opportunities to learn about traditional Rwandan customs, arts, and crafts.
Weather in Kigali
Kigali experiences a relatively mild and temperate climate throughout the year due to its high elevation.
The city has a dry season between June-September - the coolest time of year with daytime temperatures averaging between 20°C - 25°C and plenty of sunshine, and two rainy seasons: a short rainy season from October-November, where rainfall starts to increase with mild temperatures averaging between 22°C - 26°C, and a long rainy season from March-May, experiencing the city’s highest rainfall with frequent downpours and thunderstorms, and daytime averages of 23°C - 28°C. Kigali’s warm season is between December-February with highs of around 25°C - 28°C and a significant decrease in rainfall.
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