Book cheap flights to Kigali

Set across rolling hills, Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, combines lively markets, contemporary art and inviting cafés and restaurants. Browse locally made crafts, discover the city’s galleries and sample Rwandan coffee as you explore. Whether you’re planning a city break or a starting point for a wider Rwanda holiday, Kigali offers opportunities for cultural discovery.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a place for remembrance and learning about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Its exhibitions provide important context for understanding Rwanda’s history and ongoing work towards peace and reconciliation. Allow time for a thoughtful, respectful visit.

Ready to explore? Compare cheap flights to Kigali with Travelstart, including RwandAir’s nonstop services from Johannesburg and connecting itineraries from Cape Town and Durban. Check availability for your preferred dates, compare baggage allowances, connection times and total fares, then book a flight that suits your plans and budget.

Rwanda enjoys a steady tropical climate resulting in warm weather throughout the year. The best months to visit, however, are between the months of June and September and December to February. These are Rwanda’s dry seasons which have the least rainfall. During the periods of October to November, as well as March to May, Rwanda experiences heavy rainfall which can negatively impact holiday enjoyment. Kigali hosts a number of exciting music and cultural festivals throughout the year. The Kigali Up Festival takes place in July and sees local and international music artists take the stage. The Rwanda Film Festival also takes place in July showcasing a collection of the best locally-produced and foreign films.

South African passport holders can generally obtain a visa on arrival in Rwanda, with visa fees waived for visits of up to 30 days, subject to meeting entry requirements.

Before booking your Kigali flights, confirm the current requirements with Rwanda’s immigration authorities or the High Commission of Rwanda. Check passport validity, supporting documents and the rules applicable to your nationality, purpose of travel and length of stay.

For longer stays, work or study, confirm the appropriate visa or permit requirements before travelling. Requirements can change, and entry and the permitted length of stay remain subject to immigration approval.

Travel information disclaimer: Visa, passport, entry and transit requirements may change without notice. This information is a general guide and does not guarantee visa approval, boarding or entry. Always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate or immigration authority for every country you will visit or transit through, and with your airline before departure. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the correct documents. To the extent permitted by law, Travelstart cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies, changes to requirements, visa refusals, denied boarding or entry, or resulting costs.

Travellers planning to go to Rwanda are recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccines and boosters such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine. Speak to your GP about the latest information regarding required vaccinations for travel to Rwanda.

Kigali is a popular African travel destination due to it being a relatively safe city with an extremely low crime rate. Most crime that occurs there tends to be opportunistic crime like theft and pick-pocketing. Keep a close eye on your personal belongings, particularly in busy areas like train stations, bus stations and restaurants. It is safe to walk the city during the day but rather utilise public transport like taxis for getting around the city at night.

Kigali offers accommodation for different budgets, from guesthouses and smaller hotels to luxury stays. Choose the city centre for access to shops, restaurants and business addresses, or look near the Kigali Convention Centre if you’re travelling for a conference or event.

For a lively neighbourhood atmosphere, consider Nyamirambo, known for its local eateries, shops and community experiences. You can join a guided walking tour with the Nyamirambo Women’s Center to learn about the area and its residents. Check the tour inclusions when booking, including whether a traditional Rwandan lunch is provided.

Compare hotels and accommodation on Travelstart to find a Kigali stay that suits your dates and budget. Review the location, breakfast options, airport transfers and cancellation terms before booking.

Getting Around Kigali

Getting around Kigali can involve taxis, local buses, private transfers and car rental, depending on your itinerary. Plan transport alongside your accommodation, especially when combining city sightseeing with trips elsewhere in Rwanda.

Taxis offer direct journeys between neighbourhoods, while local buses are an option for selected routes. Kigali’s buses use the Tap&Go smart-card payment system. Check current routes and payment requirements before travelling, and confirm taxi fares or booking estimates before setting off.

Walking can suit shorter outings, although Kigali’s hills make some routes more demanding. For journeys from Kigali International Airport, arrange a taxi or pre-booked transfer through your accommodation or a transport provider. Confirm collection details, luggage capacity and the fare before arrival.

Planning to explore beyond Kigali? Compare car rental availability with Travelstart for your pick-up location and dates. Check insurance, deposits, mileage limits and driving-document requirements before booking. For national parks or rural destinations, confirm road conditions and suitable vehicle requirements; a car with a driver or an organised excursion is another option.