About Kigali

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda, roughly in the center of the country. It sprawls across numerous hills, ridges and valleys, and has a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. The Kigali Genocide Memorial documents the 1994 mass killings in Rwanda, associated with the country’s civil war. The city’s Caplaki Crafts Village has stalls selling traditional handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven baskets. The city of Kigali is one of the five provinces of Rwanda, with boundaries set in 2006. It is divided into three districts—Gasabo, Kicukiro, and Nyarugenge—which historically had control of significant areas of local governance. Reforms in January 2020 transferred much of the districts' power to the city-wide council. The city also hosts the main residence and offices of the president of Rwanda and most government ministries. The largest contributor to Kigali's gross domestic product is the service sector, but a significant proportion of the population works in agriculture including small-scale subsistence farming. Attracting international visitors is a priority for city authorities, including leisure tourism, conferences and exhibitions.

Museum

Kigali Genocide Memorial

Kigali, Rwanda

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Travel Tips for Kigali

Getting Around

Inside Kigali, transport is relatively easy. You’ll find taxis, “moto-taxis” (motorbike taxis), and public transport. Roads are generally good, though the city is hilly. For some central zones there are pedestrian-friendly / car-free areas (for example the former “Car-Free Zone”) that encourage walking or biking. If you plan to drive yourself: Rwanda recognizes international driver’s licences. Roads rules: drive on the left, seatbelts required, mobile phone use while driving prohibited. Plug adaptors may be needed for electronics.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Kigali is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. During this period you get pleasant weather days generally warm (around 23–26 °C), nights cooler (often ~15 °C).

Local Customs

Respect, politeness and greetings are very important in local interactions. Learning a few basic phrases in Kinyarwanda can go a long way, Avoid public displays of affection, especially in more conservative or rural areas

Visa Requirements

For most foreign visitors, Rwanda (and thus Kigali) offers visa on arrival at the main airport or land borders. The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Visit Rwanda +1 Credit cards and ATMs are widely available in Kigali, especially in hotels, restaurants, banks and larger shops.

Languages Spoken

Kinyarwanda, English, French

Quick Facts

Currency

Rwandan Franc (RWF)
R₣

Timezone

CAT

Calling Code

+250

Electricity

Standard voltage is 220–240 V AC. Plug types are typically the round-pin
Socket types →

Driving Side

left

Population

12301939

Area

26338 km²

ISO Code

RW, RWA