Overview
Kigali Safaris
Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda, is often referred to as the ‘garden city’ for its rolling hills, tree-lined avenues and green parks. Renowned for its laid back atmosphere and pristine cleanliness, Kigali offers a charming and safe destination, perfect for beginning or ending a luxury family safari through Rwanda.
A relatively modern city, Kigali boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Africa, offering peace of mind for families. While its remarkable cleanliness is thanks to umuganda, a monthly community service day when residents come together to maintain public spaces and infrastructure.
Whilst often dismissed as a stopover before gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Big Five safaris in Akagera, Kigali offers an incredible range of experiences in its own right. From guided tours of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and exploring its thriving art scene to sampling delicious Rwandan coffee in one of its bustling cafes, there is something for families of all ages in Kigali.
Overview
Kigali Safaris
Where is Kigali?
Located at the geographic heart of Rwanda, Kigali serves as the vibrant and dynamic gateway to the country. Spread across a series of rolling hills, the city embodies Rwanda’s moniker as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ and offers breathtaking views from almost every area of the city.
With its international airport and central location, Kigali is the perfect base for exploring Rwanda’s national parks, from the world-famous mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park to the misty rainforests of Nyungwe.
What to do in Kigali?
Kigali offers a range of vibrant experiences which both explore Rwanda’s poignant history and celebrate its thriving culture and cosmopolitan charm.
A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, built on the hillside where over 250,000 genocide victims are buried, is a profound and essential experience. While children under 12 are not permitted due to the memorial’s sensitive content, guided tours – often led by survivors – offer deeply moving insights into this tragic chapter of Rwanda’s past. For those curious about Rwanda’s history before the genocide, the Kandt House Museum provides further context.
For cultural aficionados, Kigali boasts a burgeoning art scene with over ten art galleries showcasing local talent. At the Kigali Cultural Village, families can enjoy browsing stalls of handmade crafts, sample traditional Rwandan food, and meet artisans at work. While the city’s green parks and historic architecture provide a relaxing backdrop for an afternoon stroll, best enjoyed with a cup of Rwanda’s renowned tea or coffee from one of its trendy cafes.
As evening falls, Kigali comes alive with cosmopolitan bars and restaurants offering live Rwandan music and a diverse array of international cuisines. Whether delving into Kigali’s vibrant cultural scene or reflecting on its poignant history, the city is more than just a gateway to Rwanda’s safaris – it’s a captivating destination in its own right.
Best time to visit?
Kigali enjoys moderate temperatures year-round, thanks to its location on a central plateau at 1,500 meters above sea level. Daytime highs typically range from the mid-teens to the mid-twenties, making it a comfortable destination for younger children and older generations in any season.
The best time to visit Kigali is during the dry season, from June to September, when sunny skies and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for sightseeing. This period offers clear views of the city’s rolling hills and vibrant neighborhoods, perfect for exploring Kigali’s cultural and historical attractions.
Who should visit?
Kigali is a great destination for families starting or ending their Rwanda safari, offering a range of enriching cultural and historical experiences as well as a selection of world-class restaurants.
For families with older children or teens, Kigali’s museums and genocide memorials provide an important insight into Rwanda’s past and present, offering meaningful learning opportunities. Meanwhile, younger children will enjoy exploring the city’s vibrant art scene or visiting the Kigali Cultural Village, where they can engage with Rwanda’s traditions and crafts.
With its clean streets, safe atmosphere, and numerous parks, cafes, and scenic spots, Kigali is the perfect place for families to unwind and enjoy a relaxed day out. Whether you have toddlers, teens, or anywhere in between, Kigali caters to every family member’s interests.
Places to stay
Recommended Kigali accommodation
Places to stay
Recommended Kigali accommodation
Itinerary ideas
Suggested itineraries for Kigali holidays
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Icons of Africa: Mountain Gorillas, Great Migration and Zanzibar Safari
This 10-day safari adventure takes you on a tour of the icons of African wildlife. From trekking with critically endangered mountain gorillas in the towering Virunga Mountains of Rwanda to witnessing thousands of zebras and wildebeest pouring over the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti, this luxury family safari ticks off two of the world’s most famous wildlife spectacles.
More InfoGuide Price From £7,200 per person (based on 2 adults) Duration 9 nights/10 days Best Months July - October Region Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar Islands, ![Golden-Monkey-Trekking.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale]()
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Luxury Rwanda and Tanzania itinerary
A luxury safari through East Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Trek with rare mountain gorillas in the misty Virunga Volcanoes, spot the Big Five across the vast Serengeti plains, and snorkel among pristine coral reefs in Zanzibar.
More InfoGuide Price From £19,500 per person (based on 2 adults) Duration 18 nights Best Months July - October Region Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Arusha, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Highlands, Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar Islands, ![Singita-Kwitonda-Lodge.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale]()
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Primates and Peaks - A Rwanda Family Safari
Our Primates and Peaks safari holiday offers families an unforgettable journey through Rwanda’s wildlife highlights. Discover playful chimpanzees in the misty rainforests of Nyungwe National Park, then trek through the breathtaking Virungas to witness the rare and endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda in their natural habitat.
More InfoGuide Price From £7000 per person (based on 2 adults) Duration 6 nights/7 days Best Months July - October Region Kigali, Nyungwe National Park, Volcanoes National Park, ![Golden-Monkey-Trekking.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale]()
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Refined Rwanda: An 11-Day Luxury Adventure
This 11-day safari showcases Rwanda’s most luxurious lodges and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Stay amid the treetops with the chimps at the exquisite One&Only Nyungwe House, then take in panoramic volcano views from Singita Kwitonda. End your journey at the charming cottages of Wilderness Sabyinyo, the perfect base for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek.
More InfoGuide Price From £13,500 per person (based on 2 adults) Duration 10 nights/11 days Best Months July - October Region Kigali, Nyungwe National Park, Volcanoes National Park, ![Singita-Kwitonda-Lodge-Landscape-Lodge-Exterior.jpg?w=1024&h=682&scale]()
Why travel with Coral Tree?
We are the specialists in luxury Africa family safari holidays
We are Africa experts and also parents. We understand what makes a memorable family adventure.
Our knowledge and connections are unsurpassed
We have been living and working in African tourism for over two decades.
Every journey is tailored with your specific wishes in mind
No off-the-shelf packages or cookie-cutter itineraries. Unique family safaris.
Each trip funds grassroots conservation and girls education projects
You pay no more for the privilege, we support causes close to our hearts.
