Ranked as Africa’s safest and the world’s 9th safest country by the World Economic Forum, Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is the heart of the nation. Known for its stunning hills and strict anti-littering rules, Kigali boasts fascinating art galleries, restaurants, cafes, museums, and memorials. It’s also the best starting point for gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park. With a modern skyline and a growing economy, Kigali is a lively and well-run city. While most tourists visit Rwanda to explore the national parks, many have at least half a day of free time to experience this clean and vibrant city. If you’re one of them, here are the 7 unforgettable things to do in Kigali Rwanda.
The 1994 Rwanda Genocide against the Tutsi is one of the most tragic and significant events in the country’s history. In just 100 days, around one million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were systematically butchered the Interahamwe army.
Located on a quiet, tree-lined street in Gisozi, the Kigali Genocide Memorial honors the 250,000 victims buried here in mass graves. The memorial includes a powerful exhibition that explains how the world just watched as these atrocities took place. Survivors have been coming here to heal for years.
To fully appreciate Kigali’s pristine streets, staunch security, and vibrant life, it’s important to understand the history behind it. Visiting this memorial is a meaningful way to reflect on the past. This intensely powerful and moving memorial is the perfect place to come to terms with Rwanda’s shocking history and the history of genocidal horrors around the world.
Set aside a few hours to dive into the history of the events from 30 years ago and honor the lives lost through the deeply moving exhibitions.
We advise that you visit the Memorial at the beginning of your stay in Rwanda so that it is not your last memory of this amazing country.
When it’s time to grab a bite, you’ll find yourself with a wealth of options. In the last decade, Kigali’s food scene has undergone a major transformation, with new restaurants, cafes, and bars springing up all over the city.
The easing of Rwanda’s visa policies, allowing most countries to get a visa on arrival, has brought in a wave of newcomers who’ve brought diverse, delicious flavors with them.
The city has also welcomed back many former residents, like Nathalie and John, the owners of Poivre Noir, a popular Belgian-style bistro with a fusion twist. Located in Kimihurura, a neighborhood now known for its vibrant dining scene, you’ll find many other great spots nearby.
Repub Lounge serves up tasty East African dishes, Indabo focuses on healthier bowls and snacks (and even has a dog park!), Borneo Indonesian offers spicy delights like beef rendang and gado-gado, and Patisserie Royale is a local favorite for cakes and coffee.
These are just a few of the delicious lunch spots, but they’re only the beginning. Within a small, walkable area of about five parallel streets, you’ll discover a range of options serving Rwandan specialties as well as Middle Eastern, Italian, Asian, and other international cuisines.
Take a leisurely stroll to burn off your lunch at Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Park, Kigali’s first major project aimed at restoring urban wetland ecosystems.
Opened in 2022, this 121-hectare park offers peaceful paths winding through lush gardens, flower-filled areas, and bamboo-lined trails. There’s even a section dedicated to showcasing the medicinal plants traditionally used by Rwandans for various ailments.
If you prefer cycling, bikes are available for rent, and informative signs in both Kinyarwanda and English are scattered throughout the park, helping you learn about the different species. For a unique experience, don’t miss checking out Live Well Rwanda for details on the park’s weekly yoga sessions.
Founded in 2007 by a group of women from Nyamirambo, one of Kigali’s oldest neighborhoods, this non-profit organization was created to combat gender-based violence, inequality, and discrimination while uplifting local women.
Over the years, the center has grown into a thriving, self-sustaining community hub, employing more than 50 women who craft a wide range of accessories, children’s clothing, and home decor.
Visitors can purchase these handmade items, take part in basket weaving and art workshops, and even learn traditional cooking techniques.
Visiting one of Kigali’s vibrant art studios or craft shops is a wonderful way to connect with the city’s heart and soul.
Spots like Caplaki Craft Village, Indiba Arts Space, Niyo Arts Center, Inema Art Gallery, Kigali Deaf Art Gallery, and Choose Kigali offer unique insights into local life and culture, seen through the eyes of talented Rwandan artists.
While each gallery has its charm, two standouts are Kigali Deaf Art Gallery and Choose Kigali. The former, run by skilled deaf artists, showcases their stunning beaded portraits and accessories, while Choose Kigali offers a luxury experience, featuring the personal collection of renowned Rwandan artist Emmanuel Nkuranga.
Choose Kigali gallery is not only an art space but also a guesthouse and restaurant with stunning views of the city and top chefs. It’s a great spot for dinner.
Alternatively, visit Kimihurura or Rugando, two neighborhoods with excellent food. Try Choma’d for tasty barbecue in a relaxed setting, Habesha for authentic Ethiopian dishes in a quiet atmosphere, or Inka Steakhouse for delicious meals on a cool patio.
Kigali offers amazing views from almost every corner, and Rebero is one of the best places to take them in. Located on a hill, it has some of the most beautiful, wide-reaching views of the city.
For a great experience, stop by Eagle View Lodge for a meal or drink, or just walk up the hill and enjoy the views. Try to go around dusk to see the city in both daylight and at night.
After a full day exploring the city, it’s time to enjoy the evening with some fun, live music, and socializing. Head back to Kimihurura (it really is that great!) or check out Remera.
In Kimihurura, Boho is a great spot to enjoy drinks with a lively atmosphere and an indoor-outdoor vibe. Lavana is another popular place with live performances, DJ sets, movie nights, and famous tequila cocktails.
For those who love to dance, La Noche nightclub is the go-to. If you’re in Remera, you’ll find a “hip strip” full of bars and clubs, each with a different vibe and music style—perfect for hopping around until you find your ideal spot.
Whichever place you choose, it’s the perfect way to end a day filled with the rich history, warmth, and beauty of this amazing city.
Since 2016, Greenway Nature Tours Africa has been offering 4×4 vehicle rentals, safari packages with accommodations, and guided tours for both individual and group travelers throughout East Africa, covering countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The ideal time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. These months provide the best weather for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking, with less rainfall, making travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
