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Most people pass through Kigali en route to see the gorillas, but this powerhouse capital actually has a lot to offer. Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’, Rwanda’s capital has a thriving art scene, is surrounded by lush landscapes, and fosters an unwavering commitment to environmental and social causes.
Leading the way for the rest of Africa, it’s considered one of the cleanest, safest, and most well-maintained African cities!
Since it isn’t exactly a hot spot for expats or digital nomads, understanding the lay of the land can be somewhat overwhelming.
That’s where I come in, with a full-scope guide on where to stay in Kigali. Whether you are visiting for the first time or searching for the luxurious side of the city, I’ve done the research and found the best neighbourhoods for you. After this guide you’ll be clued up and ready to book that trip in no time. Let’s get into it.
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Kigali?
If you’re looking for a quick answer to the question, these are my top picks for places to stay in Rwanda’s capital:
Villa Asimba, Kacyiru or Remera
Villa Asimba is one of those exceptional places where the hospitality, food, and room aesthetic all hit the sweet spot. It feels homey and elegant, with tastefully decorated suites that reflect a mix of modern design and Rwandan arts and crafts.
The lush gardens and pool area are a big highlight. There are few better places to return to after a day of exploring Kigali.
Yambi Guesthouse and Hostel, Kigarama
Yambi Guesthouse and Hostel is one of the only hostels in the city. And while it doesn’t have much competition, it truly is in a league of its own. It’s a boutique establishment that offers a uniquely Rwandan experience, all for a super low price per night.
Each of the 10 suites is individually designed, showcasing local artistry and craftsmanship. The space is colourful and vibrant and has a stunning garden that overlooks the lush hills of Rwanda.
Laini Home, Kimihurura
Nestled in a picturesque garden setting, Laini Home is one of the most aesthetically pleasing properties in the city. It seems small and simple, but on closer inspection, it is overflowing with little details that make an extraordinary impression.
Take, for example, the dramatic tree trunk pillars, the terracotta tiling, and the exposed wooden beams. The house is airy and sunny, with large windows inviting the outdoors in. Plus, it’s decorated with stylish African touches like handmade ceramics and woven basketry.
Kigali Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Kigali
Kimihurura
Kimihurura is the lively heart of Kigali’s social scene. It’s central, packed with energy, and offers a good mix of tradition and modernity. This is the easy choice for first-time visitors who want to visit the major attractions
Kigarama
If you’re looking to have the most authentic, local experience, Kigarama is the best place to stay in Kigali. This residential neighbourhood is elevated on the hillside and surrounded by lush hills, offering beautiful views of the rolling landscape.
Kiyovu
Kiyovu is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Kigali. It’s an upscale oasis that feels worlds away from the city centre, even though it is just a short drive from it.
Kacyiru or Remera
If you’re visiting with your trusty laptop and want to settle into this city for a while, I recommend staying somewhere between the Kacyiru and Remera neighbourhoods. They’re well-located and connected to the city
Kigali is a city of contrasts. Emerging from a harrowing past, this capital city has set its sights on rebranding itself as the leading African city for cleanliness and safety. While still relatively small compared with other African capitals, such as in neighbouring Tanzania (for reference, 1.2 million people live here), the city is clean, green, and effortlessly cool.
Of course, it’s got that authentic African flair, with a mix of local markets, sleek modern buildings, and rolling hills in every direction you look.
Understanding where to stay in Kigali is a bit of a mind trick. Especially when you notice that most of the best neighbourhoods start with a ‘Ki’, and even then, not many of these zones are really distinctive.
If it’s your first time in Kigali, Kimihurura is the perfect place to base yourself. It’s a buzzing central neighbourhood packed with stylish cafes, coworking spaces, gyms, rooftop bars, and some of the best restaurants in the city. This tree-lined neighbourhood is walkable and safe, and is particularly well known for its nightlife. Seriously, you’ll be blown away by the clubs and VIP lounges around here.
For a more culturally immersive experience, Kigarama offers a glimpse into the everyday life of a Kigali local. This hilly residential area isn’t as polished as Kimihurura, but that’s what makes it so charming. It’s lined with markets, local eateries, and friendly locals who are always up for a chat.
The leafy neighbourhood of Kiyovu is one of the most upscale in the city. It’s home to most of the major embassies, as well as boutique hotels and lush areas. It’s the place to be if you want a more refined experience where you won’t hear car horns 24 hours a day.
Kacyiru and Remera are two more budget-friendly options that attract many middle-income locals. They’re home to the Amahoro Stadium and Kigali’s Red Light District, lined with pubs, sports bars, and brochettes. Just five minutes from the airport, public transport connections zoom through this Kigali neighbourhood at all times.
Kigali’s Four Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Kigali is small but growing. Picture this: the 1.2 million population is expected to triple by 2040. Yup, it’s growing fast! For now, these four neighbourhoods stand out amongst the rest for a range of reasons. Let’s get into ’em…
1. Kimihurura – Where to Stay in Kigali for Your First Time
Kimihurura is the lively heart of Kigali’s social scene. It’s central, packed with energy, and offers a good mix of tradition and modernity. This is the easy choice for first-time visitors who want to visit the major attractions, take advantage of the city’s nightlife, and eat at some of the best restaurants.
The neighbourhood is home to a mix of young professionals and expats who gather in the trendy cafes and rooftop bars. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to modern rentals, making it easy to find a comfortable place to stay.
Bisabo Suites Apartment | Best Hotel in Kimihurura
Stepping off the streets of Kimihurura and into Bisabo Suites feels like entering a serene oasis in the heart of the city. The modern, fashionable style throughout, with warm lighting and tons of greenery, is so elegant that it will immediately put you at ease.
When you aren’t enjoying the quiet of your self-contained apartment, the swimming pool and gardens are the best places to soak up this gorgeous place to stay in Kigali.
Laini Home | Best Cabin in Kimihurura
Laini Home is a little slice of paradise in Kimihurura. This small cabin sits in a lush garden surrounded by towering trees and green grass. It’s rustic and contemporary at the same time, thoughtfully designed with handcrafted ceramics, muted tones, and interesting textures.
It’s designed like a loft, with a mezzanine bedroom on the upper deck. From the exposed wooden beams to the eclectic tiling, every inch of the home is worth a photograph.
Stylish 2-Bed Apartment with Parking | Best Apartment in Kimihurura
For a more contemporary experience, this fully self-catering apartment is one of the most exquisitely designed modern homes in the area. It has two bedrooms and all the modern amenities you might need—a kitchen with all the appliances, laundry machines, and a private parking space.
It’s designed with fresh interiors featuring bursts of colour and texture to keep things interesting. Best of all, the home has a little outdoor terrace where you can enjoy your morning coffee as the sun rises over Kigali.
Things to See and Do in Kimihurura
- Walk through the gardens of the Rwanda Art Museum, a small museum in a former presidential house
- Shop your heart out at Kigali Heights shopping mall
- Walk down Imbuga City Walk, a lively pedestrian street with local street art, on a walking tour
- Get a taste of local arts, crafts, and food at the Kimihurura Market
- Tour the city on a guided bike tour
- Grab a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars
- Sample local food on a food tour through the neighbouring Nyamirambo district
- Walk through the lush Kimihurura Roundabout Park
2. Kigarama – Best Place to Stay in Kigali for Local Culture
If you’re looking to have the most authentic, local experience, Kigarama is the best place to stay in Kigali. This residential neighbourhood is elevated on the hillside and surrounded by lush hills, offering beautiful views of the rolling landscape.
Unlike the more polished areas, this one is less organised, complete with bustling markets and local eateries. It’s an area where you can interact with Rwandans going about their daily chores and routines to get a deeper understanding of life in this city. Here, there are some beautiful apartments and budget-friendly hostels to stay in.
High Ground Villas | Best Luxury Apartments in Kigarama
Perched on the Kigarama hillside overlooking Kigali, High Ground Villa is one of the best villas for a large group of people to rent. They offer two villas, one with four bedrooms and another with a whopping fourteen bedrooms.
Run by a friendly local family, you’ll get a home-cooked breakfast in the morning and incredible advice on what to do and where to go in the city. Local knowledge is key here!
Yambi Guesthouse and Hostel | Best Hostel in Kigarama
Yambi Guesthouse is one of those accommodations that is synonymous with Kigali. It’s one of the only hostels in the city, and it goes above and beyond to ensure guests have the most colourful and welcoming local experience.
And by colour, I mean brightly coloured walls, African art, hammocks, and linen. Set in a lush garden, this boutique guesthouse and hostel are designed with art, furniture, and materials that reflect the vibrant colours of Rwandan artistry.
Izuba Apartment | Beautiful Apartment in Kigarama
This two-bedroom apartment is spacious and bright, ideal for travellers who like having access to modern amenities but also thrive in a more local neighbourhood. It’s in a secure part of the neighbourhood and is designed to combine elements of East African crafts with Scandinavian architectural influences.
Most of the furniture and art have been locally made, paying tribute to the local Rwandan culture. The apartment also has a lovely porch opening onto the garden – the perfect place to start your day with a steaming coffee in hand.
Things to See and Do in Kigarama
- Walk through the picturesque Kigali Prime Garden
- Spend the day in Rwanda’s coffee fields learning about the bean-to-cup process
- Start the Akabasaza Rectangle Hiking Trail from the starting point in Kigarama
- Visit the Heaven Garden Rebero and the Golden Garden Rebero
- Go ziplining through Mount Kigali
- Pay your respects at the Nyanza Genocide Memorial
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View on Osprey3. Kiyovu – Best Area in Kigali For Luxury-Seekers
On the other end of the spectrum, Kiyovu is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Kigali. It’s an upscale oasis that feels worlds away from the city centre, even though it is just a short drive from it. Plenty of businessmen and wealthy locals live around here. The vibes feel refined and polished. It’s peaceful yet still relatively central, meaning you can visit all of the city’s best attractions with ease.
Accommodations around here include hotels, bed and breakfasts, and some house rentals. You might even find some sophisticated serviced apartments.
5 Swiss Hotel | Best Hotel in Kiyovu
From the moment you arrive at the 5 Swiss Hotel, you’ll feel the warm embrace of Rwandan hospitality. The rooms, while not overly spacious, are impeccably clean and thoughtfully designed, offering a comfortable place to retreat to after a day of exploring Kigali.
Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast and rest assured that someone will be at the desk 24 hours a day.
Heaven Restaurant and Boutique Hotel | Top Hotel in Kiyovu
Staying at Heaven Restaurant and Boutique Hotel is an experience that will engage all your senses. Surrounded by greenery and designed with open courtyards and terraces, the hotel has a peaceful ambience that feels worlds away from the busy city.
The rooms are spacious and individually decorated with locally curated art and linens. One of my favorite things about this place to stay in Kigali is the restaurant, situated on the open terrace with a bamboo ceiling.
Private Tiny Home with Garden | Traditional Home in Kiyovu
For an authentic Kigali experience, this tiny home has all the features of a traditional round hut. Surrounded by a private garden, it’s one of the most calming places to stay. Spend your mornings sipping coffee in bed before strolling around the property, absorbing the soothing sounds of nature.
Despite its small size, this spot is thoughtfully designed with all the essentials you might need for a comfortable stay. Plus, it’s not far from the city centre.
Things to See and Do in Kiyovu
- Start your mornings at one of the neighbourhood’s tropical-inspired coffee shops
- Visit the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial to understand more about Rwanda’s colonial history
- Join a painting workshop at the Choose Kigali Art Centre
- Watch a performance at the Kigali Cultural Village
- Buy locally made clothing from the Nyamirambo Women’s Center, a non-profit organisation
- Learn to make traditional woven products guided by local artisans
- Spend some time surrounded by nature at the Imfura Park
- Taste as much street food as possible at the Biryogo Car Free Street Food Street on this walking tour
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Grab an eSIM!4. Kacyiru or Remera – Best Area in Kigali for Digital Nomads
If you’re visiting with your trusty laptop and want to settle into this city for a while, I recommend staying somewhere between the Kacyiru and Remera neighbourhoods. They’re well-located and connected to the city (plus, just a few minutes from the airport). They have great facilities like coworking spaces and gyms, offering the perfect balance between productivity and exploration.
This Kigali neighbourhood also has a thriving nightlife scene, shopping, and a variety of food and drink options. It’s a relatively local area, but there are some expats taking advantage of the wonderful lifestyle. You’ll find a few hotels, some comfortable cottages and guesthouses, and even private rooms in shared homes.
Villa Asimba | Best Hotel in Kacyiru or Remera
You know those places where you feel totally at home from the moment you arrive? Villa Asimba is one of them. It’s a guesthouse with a homey charm, tastefully decorated with bright and spacious rooms, and managed by staff who go above and beyond to make your stay as seamless as possible.
Breakfast is included in the rate, and dinner is available at the on-site restaurant. Oh, and single rooms are conveniently available for solo travellers.
Kona Kabiri | Best Cottage in Kacyiru or Remera
Kona Kabiri is a little cottage in the heart of Kacyiru. The first thing you’ll notice on your arrival is the contemporary design and neat aesthetic. Everything has its place here, from the clever storage to the jars of kitchen essentials and hanging tools.
The interiors are beautiful, decorated with locally made wooden furniture, woven basket wall hangings, and rattan lighting. Consider this African modernism at its finest.
Affordable Room in a Beautiful Shared House | Best Alternative for a Hostel in Kacyiru or Remera
Since there aren’t any hostels in this Kigali neighbourhood, I figured I would offer the next best alternative. Why not rent a bedroom in a gorgeous home for a nightly price you will hardly believe?
This sunny, spacious room is beautifully furnished with luxurious bedding and cosy interiors. You’ll also have access to shared spaces, including a fully equipped kitchen and living room. The property is managed by two lovely people who will ensure everything is clean and welcoming during your stay.
Things to See and Do in Kacyiru or Remera
- Visit the many art galleries on an art crawl of the neighbourhood
- Take a guided tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by a walk through the Culture Green Square Park to learn about Rwanda’s painful history
- Visit the Inema Arts Center for an interactive experience with local artists
- Explore the modern art at the Niyo Arts Center on a guided art tour of the city
- Walk through the Kyandungu Urban Wetland Park, a peaceful park with lots of birds
- Admire the enormous collection of books at the Kigali Public Library
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Kigali
If you’re looking for a bit more information on where the perfect spot to stay in this wonderful Rwandan city is, then read on.
What To Pack For Kigali
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me: packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kigali
Unfortunately, things can go wrong wherever you travel. This is why good travel insurance is essential before your trip to Rwanda.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kigali
Choosing where to stay in Kigali depends on several factors. Do you want to be in the busy centre, in a more refined and quiet neighbourhood, or in a local area?
Kimihurura is the perfect starting point for first-time visitors, with easy access to major attractions and a lively nightlife scene. For a more authentic cultural experience, Yambi Guesthouse in Kigarama will give you a little taste of local Kigali life.
If luxury calls your name, Kiyovu has a few epic accommodations like the 5 Swiss Hotel. And for digital nomads? Kacyiru and Remera are central, have plenty of coworking spaces and cafes, and affordable accommodations like this Room in a Beautiful Shared House.
That said, all the best places to stay in Kigali are just a short distance from one another, so don’t count anything out just because you choose one neighbourhood over another.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South Africa backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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