If you have more than just one day to explore Rwanda’s capital, you’ll be impressed by what Kigali has to offer. From a turbulent history to complete law and order, absolute cleanliness to a vibrant arts and food scene – three days is the perfect amount of time to tour this compact city.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
Although already covered in a previous blog, no trip to Kigali would be complete without a visit to the Genocide Memorial. The site honours the 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and moderate Hutus. The memorial’s symbolic rose gardens and fountains stand in stark contrast to the harrowing stories housed inside the museum, where you’ll trace the events leading up to, during, and following the genocide. Allow 2 hours for this deeply moving tour.
The memorial grounds which hold the mass graves from the genocide. The phrase ‘Kwibuka 31’ which can be found throughout the grounds and city translates as ‘Remember 31’ as this year marked 31 years since the genocide.
Campaign Against Genocide Museum
A visit to this museum offers important context about the country’s recovery journey and details the nation’s fight to end the genocide. Plan for about 1–2 hours.
Evening: Repub Lounge
Wrap up the day at Repub Lounge - a cozy, stylish spot with local dishes, and an easygoing vibe. A perfect place to reflect on the day over a plate of specialties and a chilled drink.
Spend the day venturing out into the city. Most hotels can arrange a reliable local driver to guide you around.
Kigali is known as one of the continent’s cleanest and safest cities due to the government enforcing strict laws on littering, order and a strong sense of community pride. Motos are the city’s common form of public transport.
The country is known as the land of a thousand hills so be sure to drop in on the city’s rolling green landscapes and sweeping views.
And visit sights such as:
Kigali City Centre
Stroll through car-free zones and snap photos at city landmarks.
Kimironko Market
Explore this bustling market for crafts, fabrics, and souvenirs. Sellers here can be persistent, so brace yourself. If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, your driver can point you toward smaller and less busy local markets.
Nyamirambo Women’s Centre
This community initiative empowers local women through training in areas such as literacy, cooking, and sewing. Visitors can purchase items and make a donation to support the cause.
Inema Arts Center
Inema showcases contemporary works from Rwandan and other African artists. The creative energy here is contagious plus it’s a great way to support local talent and artists.
Nyurah Restaurant
For a fine dining experience, head to Nyurah - the name itself means "to be greatly satisfied," which you will be from the service to the quality of the food.
Amahoro National Stadium & BK Arena
Stop by two of the city’s landmark venues. Amahoro Stadium, the largest in Rwanda, is a striking piece of architecture that can hold more than 40,000 people. Just a few steps away is BK Arena, Kigali’s main stage for entertainment and events.
Shokola Café
Perched on the rooftop of the Kigali Public Library, lies Shokola café – the perfect hideaway to grab a coffee, lose yourself in a book, and soak in the panoramic city views. Check out the @shokolacafe instagram account
Kigali is a city that has gone through a remarkable transformation. From a history scarred by colonialism and genocide to a thriving, forward-looking capital that continues to evolve. It may not be the most energetic African city to visit, but it’s definitely one of the most organised.
If you’re planning a trip to East Africa, give Kigali more than just a stopover to witness firsthand how modernity, growth and progress can shape the future of Africa.
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