Kigali

Kigali is one of the most surprising and rewarding capitals in Africa. Many people treat it as just a launchpad for gorilla trekking or a stopover on the way to parks, but we think that's selling it short. Kigali is clean, safe and, welcoming - with a growing creative scene, a powerful history, and just the right dose of city energy.

Located right in the centre of Rwanda, spread across a series of green hills. It's Rwanda's largest city and main international gateway, with Kigali International Airport just 20 minutes from the city centre. You can fly directly into Kigali from several major hubs - making it one of the most accessible cities in East Africa. Once you are in, getting around is easy. Roads are excellent, and traffic is calm by regional standards.

What really make Kigali stand out is the atmosphere. Kigali is tidy, calm, and remarkably green - with tree-lined boulevards, spotless streets, and scenic views from just about every hilltop. It's one of the safest and most orderly cities in Africa, which makes exploring feel genuinely relaxed, whether you are wandering through local markets or out for dinner after dark.

But it's not just about how it looks - there is a substance here too. Kigali has a powerful, sometimes painful, story to tell, and it wears its history with quiet dignity. At the same time, it's a forward-looking place with a growing emphasis on innovation, culture and sustainability.

There is lots to do in Kigali. Without question you need to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which is one of the most important and moving experiences. The memorial honours the more than one million victims of the 1994 genocide and offers a thoughtful, deeply human insight into Rwanda's past. It's sobering, yes - but also full of hope. You will come away with a deeper understanding of how far the country has come.

You can also explore the local art scene. Kigali is becoming a creative hub in East Africa. Head to Inema Arts Centre, a dynamic gallery and studio run by local artists, to see contemporary Rwandan art in action. There is often live music or events too. For something more traditional, Caplaki Craft Village offers handmade baskets, fabrics, wood carvings, and jewellery.

Kigali is also a bit of a food lover's surprise. You will find everything from slick rooftop restaurants to cosy cafés and local barbecue joints.

It's a year round destination with a pleasant, temperature climate year-round thanks to its elevation. The dry seasons which are June to September and December to February are ideal for clear skies and easy walking. But even during the rains, showers tend to come and go quickly, and the city stays vibrant and green.