Top things to do in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital

Rwanda is a destination that belongs on every adventurous traveler’s bucket list. Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, this small East African gem is often overlooked, but is home to breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife – think gorilla-trekking – and warm-hearted people. At the heart of it all is Kigali, the country’s attractive, vibrant and sophisticated capital with a relaxed and friendly vibe. With its clean, green streets, dynamic arts and food scene, and powerful cultural sites, the capital is the perfect introduction to Rwanda. To inspire your wanderlust, here we explore the top things to do in Kigali.

Experience the vibrant culture and history of Kigali

The Kigali Genocide Memorial

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Rwanda, commemorating the lives lost during the 1994 genocide. It’s a poignant reminder of the dark chapter in the country’s history and paying your respects here is important to frame your understanding of Rwanda’s troubled past. Thoughtfully curated exhibits provide context to the conflict and offer a deeper understanding of the country’s journey forward.

Uncover Kigali’s artistic side

The colorful Rwandan capital has a thriving creative scene with exciting food, fashion, art, crafts and music. Several galleries showcase the work of new and established artists, such as the Inema Arts Center, a hub for contemporary African art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media artworks. It hosts performances by local artists and visitors can meet the artists, participate in workshops, and even take home a one-of-a-kind piece.

The Rwanda Art Museum, housed in the former Presidential Palace, displays contemporary art from Rwanda and beyond, while in the gardens you can still see the wreckage of the presidential jet, which was shot down in 1994. Foodies can combine high concept art and fine dining at Choose Kigali, a contemporary gallery and restaurant.

If galleries are not your thing, take a stroll around Kimisagara where colorful street murals and graffiti tell stories of everyday life. Fashion has also taken off here, thanks to a government initiative to promote the work of innovative young Rwandan designers. Hit the shops and find elegant, culturally inspired clothing that fuses traditional themes with contemporary ideas.

Dive into bustling markets, from Kimironko to Caplaki

Exploring Kigali’s markets is one of the best ways to experience local life, and Kimironko Market is the best – and busiest – place in town. It’s a lively, sprawling marketplace selling fresh local produce, and colorful handcrafted goods and fabrics from across East Africa. It’s an ideal spot to pick up unique souvenirs and experience Rwanda’s vibrant trading culture firsthand. Meanwhile, Caplaki Craft Village is perfect for buying high-quality artisan crafts, including traditional woven baskets, jewelry, and carvings.

Discover the cultural draws of Nyamirambo

The Nyamirambo neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, energetic and fun, making it one of the best places to visit in Kigali. Its colorful street art, fascinating murals and drawings, local graffiti, and several markets offer an interesting walk in any direction. For a more immersive experience, join a walking tour with the Nyamirambo Women’s Center. They guide visitors through local markets, tailors’ workshops, and community spaces while you see and learn more about the local way of life.

Watch a game at the Amahoro Stadium

Rwanda’s largest sports venue has undergone a massive renovation and reopened in 2024 as a 45,000-seater world-class venue. Football is Rwanda’s national sport and watching a match at the Amahoro Stadium is a thrilling way to experience their passion for the game and have an unforgettable experience. Arrive early and explore the area around the stadium, with food vendors and small shops, before taking your seat and soaking up the energetic atmosphere alongside fervent fans.

Savor the flavors: explore Kigali’s culinary scene

Kigali’s food scene and must-try local specialties

In 2024, Condé Nast Traveler described Kigali as Africa’s most exciting food city, and with good reason. It has a dynamic food scene, spanning casual street food spots to fine dining experiences, spotlighting local African ingredients, dishes with modern influences and traditional favorites. Classic specialties to try include isombe, a complex dish made with cassava leaves, agatogo, a plantain-based stew filled with chunks of hearty beef or goat, and ikinyiga – one for peanut butter lovers! Try ‘the Big Fish,’ a large grilled tilapia stuffed with different spices and vegetables, especially onions, large enough for two to three people.

For street food, look no further than Biryogo Car Free Food Street, which is exactly what it says on the tin: a pedestrian-only street and vibrant culinary hub, known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of stalls. Take a stroll and sample a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and vegetables to traditional snacks, as you listen to live music. It’s a popular meeting spot for both locals and tourists, providing an authentic taste of Rwandan culture and cuisine.

Fine dining is thriving in Kigali, with dynamic young experimental chefs and entrepreneurs, who have helped put Kigali on the map for foodies and adventure tourists alike. Vegetarians will be spoiled with many inventive and tasty plant-based dishes on most menus, reflecting the fact Rwanda is home to 15% of Africa’s plant species.

Get a taste for Rwandan coffee

Caffeine addicts will be thrilled to hear that Rwanda is a renowned producer of world-class coffee. Kigali is the perfect place to experience it firsthand, and many cool cafes and specialty coffee shops offer tasting sessions and barista-led demonstrations. From Kigali you can also take a tour to a nearby coffee plantation, where you’ll learn about the process from plant to bean to cup, and savor a cup of the rich, aromatic flavors of the best Rwandan coffee before you leave.

Experience a traditional Rwandan milk bar… or a craft beer!

A unique part of Kigali’s food culture is the traditional milk bar, where locals gather to enjoy fresh milk and dairy-based drinks. These humble establishments reflect the deep-rooted dairy traditions of Rwanda and a glimpse into authentic local life. For something stronger later in the day, quench your thirst at Kweza Craft Brewery – an all-women brewery and the first craft brewery in the country.

Immersive experiences: more great things to do in Kigali

Climb Mount Kigali for panoramic views

Despite its name, this is more of a hill than a mountain, making it a manageable trek for most visitors. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kigali for nature lovers and photographers alike. Visit at ‘golden hour’ as the sun goes down and see the city bathed in warm gilded light.

Get involved with community projects at the Nyamirambo Women’s Center

As travelers, one of the most valuable things we can do is support local initiatives and make a positive impact on the communities we visit. The experiences are fulfilling and an opportunity to make meaningful connections. The Nyamirambo Women’s Center is a perfect example of a community-driven organization that you can visit and support. It provides education and vocational training to women unable to pay for such training on their own. You can join in weaving workshops, cooking classes and even take a motorbike tour of the city, riding pillion with one of the women. You’ll gain insight into Rwandan traditions while giving back to the community.

Read more: Trekking with gorillas in Rwanda and other nature adventures

Plan your visit: essential travel tips

The best areas to stay in Kigali

Kigali has plenty of great accommodation options, from international chains to stylish urban hotels, boutique guesthouses and tranquil eco-lodges. The upscale neighborhoods of Nyarutarama and Kiyovu are popular choices, being close to key attractions, dining and shopping.

Getting to and around Kigali

Kigali International Airport is the main gateway to Rwanda, and you can reach the capital by taxi or bus in under 20 minutes. The city itself is easy to get around, thanks to well-organized transport systems and plentiful taxis and moto-taxis. It’s a very clean, pleasant and walkable city and enjoyable to explore on foot.

For exploring beyond the capital, reliable bus connections operate to other top Rwandan destinations, such as Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu, or you can rent a car or vehicle with a driver. Roads in Rwanda are excellent, so a self-drive trip is a popular option and will give you more flexibility to explore.

Health and safety tips for travelers visiting Kigali

Kigali is known for being one of the cleanest, safest, and best-maintained cities in Africa, but you should always take the usual precautions when traveling overseas:

• Health: Stay up to date on vaccinations and consider anti-malarial medication if traveling outside the city.
• Safety: While Kigali has low crime rates, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing services.
• Money: Credit cards are accepted in many places, but carrying some local currency (Rwandan francs) is advisable for smaller markets and vendors.

Make it happen

Our African experts are on hand to help you get the most from your Rwandan vacation. Why not have twice the fun with a two-center vacation? Rwanda borders two fascinating countries in the form of Uganda and Tanzania, both of which can be combined with a visit to Rwanda.