Kigali, Rwanda

Why Visit Kigali?

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and the first place most tourists arrive. It is a beautiful city that stretches across many green hills and valleys. The roads are smooth and easy to travel on, making it simple to reach all of Rwanda’s national parks from here. Rwanda was recently named the 9th safest country in the world—and the safest in Africa—by the World Economic Forum. That makes Kigali not just the capital, but also one of the safest and most welcoming cities in Africa. Kigali is clean, well-organized, and full of life. The city has tall modern buildings, new shops, and a fast-growing economy. Old neighborhoods are quickly turning into nice places to live and visit, with new cafes, markets, and local shops popping up everywhere. Most people come to Rwanda to see the national parks, so they often only have a few hours to explore Kigali. If you’re one of them, don’t worry—we’ve made a list of our favorite things to do in Kigali when you have just half a day to enjoy this amazing city!

Top Things To Do In Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali Genocide Memorial Tour

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for over 250,000 people who lost their lives during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. It is a place to remember, reflect, and learn. This memorial is deeply moving and emotional. It tells the story of a tragic past, but also shares a powerful message of hope, peace, and forgiveness. Bring tissues—many visitors find it a very touching experience. We recommend visiting the Memorial at the start of your trip. It helps you understand Rwanda’s history and the strength of its people, and it means your last memory of this beautiful country will be one of joy and inspiration.

Visit Niyo Arts Centre

Niyo Arts Centre is a lively and creative space that showcases the work of 17 talented artists from the Great Lakes region of Africa. You’ll find colorful paintings, sculptures, and handmade crafts that tell powerful stories through art. What makes this place even more special is its mission. Part of the money from any art you buy goes toward helping children living on the streets, single mothers, genocide survivors, and others affected by poverty. Visiting Niyo is not just about enjoying beautiful art—it’s also about supporting a great cause and meeting artists who use their creativity to bring hope and change to their communities.

Explore Caplaki Craft Village

Caplaki Craft Village is a fun and colorful market where you can find a wide variety of handmade art and crafts. Local artists and small businesses sell their unique creations here—each item tells a story. You’ll see beautifully carved woodwork, detailed woven baskets, vibrant beaded jewelry, and striking tribal masks. It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs, gifts, or something special to remind you of Rwanda. Take your time to browse, chat with the artists, and enjoy the rich culture and creativity on display in every corner of this village market.

Nyandungu Urban Wetland Ecotourism Park

Once a damaged wetland, Nyandungu has been beautifully restored into a peaceful eco-park right in the middle of Kigali. Covering 121 hectares, it’s now a place for both learning and relaxation, showing how nature and cities can thrive together. The park features a medicinal plant garden, the peaceful Pope’s Garden, five catchment ponds, three ponds for recreation, an information center, a restaurant, and 10 kilometers of walking and biking paths. It’s a great spot to take a break from the busy city, enjoy nature, and learn about the environment. Whether you’re walking, biking, birdwatching, or just relaxing, Nyandungu offers a refreshing and green escape for all ages.

Nyamirambo Women’s Centre (NWC)

The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre is a vibrant community project that supports and empowers local women. It employs over 50 women who create beautiful handmade products—including women’s accessories, children’s clothes, and home décor items. Visitors are welcome to shop for these unique crafts and also take part in fun cultural experiences. You can join a basket weaving or art class, or even learn how to cook traditional Rwandan dishes. A visit to NWC is not just a shopping stop—it’s a chance to connect with the community, support women-led businesses, and enjoy a hands-on experience of Rwandan culture.

Question Coffee

Question Coffee is one of Kigali’s most popular coffee spots—serving high-quality coffee grown by women farmers across Rwanda. Every cup supports these hardworking women and their communities. Along with the excellent coffee, you’ll find tasty pastries, a relaxing atmosphere, and free Wi-Fi—making it a great place to unwind, catch up on work, or just enjoy a quiet break. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a cozy spot to recharge, Question Coffee is a must-visit.

Kigali Accommodation

Kigali has many places to stay, offering options for every kind of traveler. If you want comfort and luxury, boutique hotels like Kigali Marriott, Haven Boutique Hotel, Hotel Des Mille Collines or Kigali Serena provide quiet, stylish rooms and great city views—perfect for relaxing after a long flight. For travelers with busy schedules, there are plenty of hotels close to the airport or city center, making transfers easy and stress-free. If you prefer a more local feel, there are cozy guesthouses and boutique lodges in peaceful neighborhoods, where you can enjoy friendly service and a calm atmosphere. No matter what kind of stay you’re looking for, Kigali has accommodations to fit your needs and help you enjoy your visit to this vibrant city.

How to Get to Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali International Airport is Rwanda’s main gateway. It offers direct flights from over 20 countries, including major cities like Johannesburg, Dubai, Doha, London, and Amsterdam. These connections make it easy to reach Kigali from anywhere in the world. Once you arrive in Kigali, you can drive or take short domestic flights to he country’s famous national parks, like Volcanoes National Park for mountain gorilla trekking or Akagera National Park for a classic safari. Kigali’s well-connected airport and central location make it the perfect starting point for exploring Rwanda’s incredible wildlife and natural beauty.