Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Kigali has overcome its dark past to become one of the most striking and secure cities in Africa and the pride of Rwanda. Lush hillsides rise up to meandering avenues and streets bustling with people in this cosmopolitan metropolis. Located in the geographical heart of Rwanda, Kigali is also a launchpad from which to explore the country’s many natural wonders.

The vibrant shopping malls in the city centre with their boutiques and coffee shops display the modern nature of the city. For a really Rwandan experience, a visit to its lively markets will provide authenticity in spades, as visitors are met with friendly smiles and touts selling their wares. But a trip to Kigali is not complete without a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial where visitors can get a sombre grip on the country’s dark history and marvel at its bright future. 

Despite its tropical location, Kigali has a moderate high-altitude climate, sheltering it from the sweltering heat of the surrounding areas. The city is a convenient distance away from popular tourist sites and houses the Kigali International Airport, making it the ideal entryway into the country.

 

Kigali Highlights

  • One of the most attractive and safe cities in Africa
  • Located in the geographical heart of Rwanda, close to numerous popular tourist sites
  • Known as a modern and cosmopolitan metropolis
  • Features numerous lively markets sporting friendly people and local goods
  • The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a necessary, albeit sombre, stop when exploring the history of the city and country 
  • It’s moderate high-altitude climate shelters it from the heat of the surrounding areas

Best time to go
Kigali

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Frequently Asked Questions

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Kigali

  • Our Travel Experts recommend accommodation based on your specific requirements – whether you're honeymooning, travelling as a family with teenagers or toddlers, or seeking maximum comfort between treks. We'll match you to the right area across Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera, or Kigali for your Rwanda tour.

  • Seven to 10 nights is ideal for a rounded Rwanda itinerary covering Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera, and Kigali. For combinations with Kenya, Tanzania, or Zanzibar, plan around 12 to 14 nights.

  • Yes. Rwanda combines especially well with Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar for a 12–14-night East African journey.

  • Rwanda is compact and well-connected by private transfers, domestic flights, and helicopter charters. This makes it one of Africa’s best countries for combining multiple wildlife regions.

  • Essential items for a Rwanda safari include: 

    • Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support

    • Clothing: Layers of neutral-coloured clothing, long trousers, and long-sleeved shirts for trekking

    • Accessories: Gardening gloves, a waterproof jacket, and a small daypack

    • Protection: Mosquito repellent for use throughout the day, sunscreen, and a hat

    • Photography: Zoom lens for gorilla photography and a waterproof pack cover

    See our gorilla trekking packing list for more information.

  • Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness, with treks categorised as short (one hour), medium (two hours), or long (three hours or more) depending on where a gorilla family is located. Porters can carry your packs on muddy forest paths and volcanic slopes, with breaks available as needed.

  • Yes, children under 15 aren’t permitted on a gorilla trek, as the activity can be physically demanding and gorillas are susceptible to human-borne illnesses. A valid gorilla permit is required for all participants.

  • Both countries offer exceptional gorilla encounters, and when weighing between a Rwanda safari tour or a Uganda safari, you’ll notice key differences in accessibility and terrain:

    • Rwanda access: Volcanoes National Park is two hours from Kigali's international airport

    • Uganda access: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park requires longer overland transfers

    • Rwanda terrain: More open forest with clearer sightings

    • Uganda terrain: Denser forests with more demanding hikes

  • Yes, Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda offers Big 5 safari opportunities, protecting lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos across wetlands and savannah. Lake Rwanyakazinga hosts substantial hippo and Nile crocodile populations, with boat safaris offering wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk.

  • Most visitors can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport or apply for an e-visa in advance through the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration. The East Africa Tourist Visa allows multiple entries across Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya for combined journeys.

  • A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with Yellow Fever transmission risk, and anti-malarial medication is recommended, particularly for Akagera National Park. Consult your doctor or travel clinic at least six weeks before departure for personalised advice.