Kigali Tourist Places to Visit in Kigali, Rwanda, Africa

Kigali Tourist Places to Visit in Kigali, Rwanda, Africa

Kigali is the capital as well as the largest city of the African country, Rwanda. Geographically, Kigali is positioned in the heart of Rwanda, at 1°56′38″ S 30°3′34″ E. Including the residence of the President of Rwanda, Kigali holds all the important administrative offices of the country. Kigali owns a thriving tourism industry, with different modern and historical attractions, including museums, memorial centres and youth clubs. Located around 1,567 meters above sea level, Kigali experiences a tropical savanna climate with relatively cold climate throughout the year. The total area of Kigali measures 730 sq. km.

History of Kigali:

According to the documented history, Kigali was founded during the German colonial rule in Rwanda in 1907. Kigali became the capital of Rwanda following the country’s independence from Belgium in 1962 (Belgian had taken the control over Rwanda during the First World War).

Transportation to Kigali:

Kigali holds the prime airport of the country, the Kigali International Airport, is situated around 5 km away from the heart of the city. The airport handles flights from and to Douala, Dubai, Entebbe, Brussels, Amsterdam, Doha, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Mombasa, Addis Ababa and Nairobi.

By bus, Kigali is linked to all other major cities of the country, including Butare, Gitarama and Cyangugu.

There are different options in Kigali for local travel like minibuses, taxis, motorcyle taxis and rental cars.

Culture, Food and Shopping in Kigali:

Kigali is the cultural capital of Rwanda, home to many museums including Kandt House Museum of Natural History. Dance and music schools in the city are bonding up the local culture with overseas cultures.

The traditional market in Kigali offers a wide selection of colorful items like handicrafts, clothing and fruit at tourist favor prices.

There are dozens of restaurants in Kigali, of which some are listed below:

Heaven Restaurant and Inn
Flamingo Chinese Restaurant
Indian Chef
Sakae Japanese Restaurant

What to do in Kigali?

Bowling
Visiting casino
Ballet dancing at Ballet Rwanda
City tours

What to see in Kigali?

Kandt House Museum of Natural History:

The Kandt House Museum of Natural History is a museum housed in the former house of German physician and explorer of Africa, Richard Kandt. The museum showcases the significance of local land, animals and plants with well stored objects and exhibitions.

Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre:

The Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre was founded in the memorial of people, particularly Tutsis, who were killed during the Rwandan Civil War. The memorial centre was opened in 2004 after 10 years of that terrible incident. No entry fee.

Presidential Palace Museum:

The Presidential Palace Museum in Kigali describes the life story of the former powerful Rwandan President Habyarimana. Visitors can also see different typical colorful Rwandan costumes here. Guide tour is imperative. Entrance fee is Rwf 6,000.

Kigali City Tower:

The Kigali City Tower is a skyscraper in Kigali, home to high tech offices and retail outlets. It is the tallest building in Rwanda, home to a four screen cinema as well.

Ballet Rwanda:

Ballet Rwanda is a famous ballet school in Kigali, offering dance courses for all age groups, even for visitors also. It is open during the afternoons & evenings only.

List of other places of interest in Kigali includes:

Inema Art Center
Ivuka Arts Centre
Akagera National Park
Ntarama Church
Ivuka Arts Kigali
Muslim Quarter
Casino Kigali
Yego Arts studio
Librarie Ikirezi
Avenue du Commerce
Mambas Club

When to travel Kigali?

Kigali is a year round destination and the tour of Kigali can be experienced best in either June or July.

Accommodation options in Kigali:

Hotels in Kigali offer all upgraded facilities like spa, TV, AC and 24 hour room service, served with a great warmth towards visitors. Some budget, mid range and high end hotels in Kigali in Rwanda are listed below:

Budget: