Kigali is a model modern metropolis of a capital city for being in such a small country in East Africa. Attractions such as the Kandt House Museum and Kigali Genocide Memorial provide insight into Rwanda’s long, complex history, while a flourishing arts scene and thriving nightlife offer things to do beyond the expected. Kigali is within easy reach of Rwanda’s great outdoors, with Nyandungu Eco-Park not far from the city center, plus Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park both about a 2.5-hour drive away.
Kigali’s equatorial warmth is pleasantly offset by its highland climate, making it a great destination year-round. Those using the city as a launchpad for wildlife watching tend to avoid the rainy seasons of March–May and September–November. Come then if you’re after cheaper flights and accommodation, fewer crowds, and verdant vistas, just remember to pack an anorak.
Motos (motorbike taxis) are an easy way to zip around Kigali, while matatus (local minibuses) and express buses provide added security for longer-distance journeys. Kigali is a walkable city, with several pedestrian areas and well-kept sidewalks, but the undulating landscape can easily turn a casual stroll into a hike—so check your route, including the elevation, before you set off.
For a taste of uniquely Kigalian culture, don’t miss the city’s famous milk bars. Locals frequent these bars—Rwanda’s version of the local tavern—throughout the day, taking time to savor a fresh cup of the white stuff while shooting the breeze with friends and colleagues. Sample some for yourself at iconic milk bar Kuruhimbi in Kimisagara.
