Travel Guide to Kigali
Discover Kigali, Rwanda's dynamic capital, where modernity meets tradition. Experience cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and a thriving culinary scene.
Kigali: The Heartbeat of Rwanda
Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the country. It is known for its clean streets, lush hills, and friendly people. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, becoming a symbol of Rwanda's progress and resilience. Tourists will find a mix of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, contemporary architecture, and cultural landmarks. One of the must-visit places in Kigali is the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This site offers a poignant and educational experience about the tragic events of 1994. The memorial serves as a place of reflection and remembrance, providing a deeper understanding of Rwanda's history and the journey towards reconciliation and peace. Kigali is also a gateway to exploring Rwanda's natural beauty. The city is close to several national parks and wildlife reserves. Visitors can take day trips to see the famous mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or enjoy a safari in Akagera National Park. The city's central location makes it an ideal base for discovering the country's diverse landscapes. Food enthusiasts will enjoy Kigali's culinary scene, which blends local Rwandan flavors with international cuisine. The city's restaurants and cafes offer a variety of dishes, from traditional Rwandan meals like brochettes and plantains to gourmet dining experiences. Don't miss the chance to visit the local markets, where you can try fresh fruits, vegetables, and unique local products. Kigali's growing arts and culture scene is another highlight. The city hosts various art galleries, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. The Inema Arts Center is a popular spot for art lovers, showcasing contemporary African art and providing a platform for local artists to share their work. Exploring Kigali's arts and culture will give you a deeper appreciation of the city's creative spirit and vibrant community.
Local tips in Kigali
- Carry local currency (Rwandan Francs) as some places may not accept credit cards.
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more reflective experience.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps for safe and reliable transportation around the city.
- Try to learn a few basic Kinyarwanda phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your interactions.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen; Kigali's high altitude can make the sun feel stronger.
Popular Attractions in Kigali
Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda, offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the poignant Genocide Memorial to the bustling Kimironko Market, there is something for everyone to explore. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Nyamirambo, visit the iconic Kigali Convention Centre, or enjoy panoramic views from the top of Mount Kigali. Don't forget to indulge in traditional Rwandan cuisine at local restaurants and cafes. With its warm hospitality and rich heritage, Kigali is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.
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Explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant site of remembrance and education, reflecting Rwanda's journey through a turbulent history.
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Explore the historical depths of Rwanda at Kandt House Museum, where culture and history intertwine in a captivating journey.
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Explore the heart of Kigali's art scene at Inema Arts Centre, where creativity meets culture in a vibrant artistic haven.
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Discover the vibrant colors and rich culture of Kigali at Kimironko Market, where authentic Rwandan crafts and produce await your exploration.
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Experience the rich flavors of Rwandan coffee in a serene setting at Question Coffee Gishushu, a must-visit café in Kigali.
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Discover the vibrant art scene at Niyo Arts Gallery, showcasing contemporary Rwandan art and culture in the heart of Kigali.
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Discover Rwanda's resilience and history at the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, where education meets reflection in a powerful narrative of healing.
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Visit the Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial in Kigali to honor bravery and reflect on Rwanda's journey towards peace and reconciliation.
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Discover Kigali's CarFree Zone, a vibrant park where culture, cuisine, and community come alive in a pedestrian-friendly paradise.
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Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Cultural Green Square Park in Kigali, perfect for relaxation and community engagement.
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Discover the stunning Kigali City Tower, a symbol of modern Rwanda with breathtaking views and vibrant local culture.
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Discover the Np Arts Center, where local talent meets cultural richness in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda.
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Explore the artistic vibrancy of Kigali at Ivuka Arts, showcasing local talent and cultural heritage through engaging exhibitions and workshops.
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Explore Rwanda's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife with Rwagasabo Safaris, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in the Land of a Thousand Hills.
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Discover the vibrant creativity of Rwanda at the Kigali Arts Center, where contemporary art meets rich cultural heritage.
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Explore the Nyanza Genocide Memorial in Kigali, a poignant tribute to resilience and remembrance of the Rwandan Genocide.
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Discover the serene beauty of Imfura Park in Kigali, an urban oasis perfect for relaxation, family outings, and enjoying the great outdoors.
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Unveil the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Rwanda with Africa Tours Rwanda Safari, an unforgettable journey into nature's heart.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Rwanda with Ishema Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
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Discover the tranquility and breathtaking views at Panorama Hope Garden, a lush oasis in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda.
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Explore the heart of Rwandan culture at the Kigali Cultural Experience, where tradition meets vibrant artistry and delicious cuisine.
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Experience the essence of Rwandan culture at Agaseke Center, a vibrant hub of traditional crafts and captivating performances in Kigali.
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Discover Kigali's Car Free Zone: A tranquil hiking haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Rwanda's vibrant capital.
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Experience the beauty and culture of Rwanda with Go 2 Rwanda's exceptional tours and adventures in the heart of Africa.
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Experience tranquility at Magnificat Garden, a lush green oasis in the heart of Kigali, perfect for relaxation and nature walks.
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Explore the lush landscapes and tranquility of Gigi's Garden in Kigali, a serene escape for nature lovers and tourists alike.
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Experience the breathtaking views and cultural richness at Kinyaga Sky Villa, the serene escape in Kigali, Rwanda.
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Explore contemporary Rwandan art at MADS Kigali, an art gallery celebrating local creativity and culture in the heart of Kigali.
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Explore the vibrant artistic spirit of Kigali at Kraft Art Center, where local crafts meet entertainment and culture.
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Experience the breathtaking views and lush landscapes of Mt. Kigali, a hiking paradise in the heart of Rwanda.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Kigali Forest, an idyllic hiking destination near Kigali, Rwanda, offering stunning views and serene trails.
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Discover the heart of Rwandan creativity at Rwanda Arts Initiative, a cultural center celebrating local art and fostering community engagement.
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Explore Kigali Soul, an art center in Kigali, Rwanda that champions local talent and women's empowerment through creative expression.
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Discover Rwanda's artistic spirit at Yego Arts Gallery, a vibrant contemporary art destination in Kigali showcasing local talent and creativity.
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Unleash your adventurous spirit in Rwanda with expert tours for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, exploring vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
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Discover the artistic soul of Rwanda at City Arts, where vibrant expressions of African culture come to life in a stunning art center in Kigali.
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Explore the vibrant Nyamirambo Market in Kigali, a hub of local culture, delicious street food, and unique handcrafted goods.
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Explore the Be Ambassador of Hope Center, a unique tourist attraction in Kigali promoting resilience and community empowerment through cultural programs.
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Discover the authentic charm of Kigali at TRIPTRIP, a unique tourist attraction celebrating Rwandan culture and community spirit.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Hope Garden, a lush urban park in Kigali, where nature and serenity come together for a perfect escape.
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Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the Kigali Airport viewpoint, a must-visit attraction for every traveler in Rwanda.
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Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes at Ikiraro Mwendo (M III), Kigali's premier tourist attraction.
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Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Kigali, Rwanda’s stunning capital city, nestled among picturesque hills and welcoming smiles.
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Relax and rejuvenate at Nyamyumba Hot Springs, a natural thermal oasis in Rubavu, Kigali, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
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Explore Ayiafrica, a serene tourist attraction in Kigali, where culture and nature intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
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Explore Kigali's dynamic street art scene, a vibrant reflection of Rwandan culture and creativity that captivates visitors with its powerful murals and urban expressions.
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Experience the captivating storytelling mural in Kigali, where art meets the rich history and culture of Rwanda, a must-see for every traveler.
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Discover the stunning panoramic views of Kigali at Shyorongi, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
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Discover the vibrant culture and serene beauty of Ubuzima Imbere in Kigali, a must-visit tourist attraction for an unforgettable experience.
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Explore Rwanda's rich culture and stunning landscapes at African Travellers Ltd, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Kigali.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Kigali
When is the best time to go to Kigali?
Local Phrases
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- HelloMuraho
[moo-rah-ho] - GoodbyeMurabeho
[moo-rah-beh-ho] - YesYego
[yeh-go] - NoOya
[oh-ya] - Please/You're welcomeNgiyakubona
[nee-yah-koo-boh-nah] - Thank youMurakoze
[moo-rah-koh-zay] - Excuse me/SorryNdasaba
[ndah-sah-bah] - How are you?Amakuru?
[ah-mah-koo-roo] - Fine. And you?Ni meza. Wewe?
[nee meh-zah. way-way] - Do you speak English?Wavuga iki gahunda?
[wah-voo-gah ee-kee gah-hoon-dah] - I don't understandNtazi
[en-tah-zee]
- HelloMuraho
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifuuse inzira, kubanjiriza
[nee-foo-seen-zee-rah, koo-bahn-jee-ree-zah] - I don't eat meatSinziba inyama
[seen-zee-bah ee-nyah-mah] - Cheers!Amahoro!
[ah-mah-ho-ro] - I would like to pay, pleaseNifuuse guhagarika, kubanjiriza
[nee-foo-seh goo-hah-gah-ree-kah, koo-bahn-jee-ree-zah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifuuse inzira, kubanjiriza
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- Help!Ubwira!
[ooh-wee-rah] - Go away!Jya hasi!
[jee-yah hah-see] - Call the Police!Andika polisi!
[ahn-dee-kah poh-lee-see] - Call a doctor!Andika dokoteli!
[ahn-dee-kah doh-koh-teh-lee] - I'm lostNdimenye
[n-dee-men-yeh] - I'm illNdimwe
[n-deem-weh]
- Help!Ubwira!
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- I'd like to buy...Nifuuse gukora...
[nee-foo-seh goo-koh-rah] - I'm just lookingNifuuse guhita
[nee-foo-seh goo-hee-tah] - How much is it?Ni iki bariya?
[nee ee-kee bah-ree-yah] - That's too expensiveNi hima cyane
[nee hee-mah chyah-neh] - Can you lower the price?Wibagirwe iki bariya?
[wee-bah-gee-rweh ee-kee bah-ree-yah]
- I'd like to buy...Nifuuse gukora...
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- What time is it?Ni iyi saa ngapi?
[nee ee-yee sah nah-gah-pee] - It's one o'clockNi saa imwe
[nee sah eem-weh] - Half past (10)Saa imwe n'igice
[sah eem-weh nee-gee-chay] - MorningKuba mu gitondo
[koo-bah moo gee-tohn-doh] - AfternoonKuba mu gitondo cya mugitondo
[koo-bah moo gee-tohn-doh chyah moo-gee-tohn-doh] - EveningKuba mu gitondo cya saha
[koo-bah moo gee-tohn-doh chyah sah-hah] - YesterdayEjo
[eh-joh] - TodayEjo
[eh-joh] - TomorrowEjo
[eh-joh] - 1Rimwe
[ree-mweh] - 2Kabiri
[kah-bee-ree] - 3Gatatu
[gah-tah-too] - 4Kane
[kah-nay] - 5Gatanu
[gah-tah-noo] - 6Gatandatu
[gah-tahn-dah-too] - 7Kumwe
[koom-weh] - 8Nyanya
[nee-yah-nyah] - 9Kenda
[ken-dah] - 10Mushya
[moo-shyah]
- What time is it?Ni iyi saa ngapi?
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- Where's a/the...?Ejo he?
[eh-joh heh] - What's the address?Aho gahunda ni iki?
[ah-hoh gah-hoon-dah nee ee-kee] - Can you show me (on the map)?Wibagirwe kandika (kuri gahunda)?
[wee-bah-gee-rweh kahn-dee-kah koo-ree gah-hoon-dah] - When's the next (bus)?Iki gihe iyo isaha iheruka?
[ee-kee gee-hee ee-yoh ee-sah-hah ee-heh-roo-kah] - A ticket (to ....)Ibiketi (kuri ....)
[ee-bee-kay-tee koo-ree]
- Where's a/the...?Ejo he?
History of Kigali
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Before the arrival of European colonizers, the area now known as Kigali was inhabited by several indigenous tribes, including the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa. The region was part of the Kingdom of Rwanda, which had a complex social structure and a rich cultural heritage. Traditional Rwandan society was organized around a monarch, known as the Mwami, who was considered both a political and spiritual leader.
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In the late 19th century, Rwanda became a target for European colonization. Initially claimed by Germany in 1884 as part of German East Africa, Rwanda, including Kigali, came under Belgian control after World War I. The Belgians governed Rwanda under a League of Nations mandate, later transitioning to a United Nations trust territory. The colonial period saw significant changes in Kigali, including the introduction of Western education, Christianity, and administrative systems.
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Kigali was founded in 1907 by German explorer and administrator Richard Kandt. Initially established as a colonial outpost, Kigali's strategic location in the center of Rwanda made it a convenient administrative hub. Over the years, the city expanded and developed, becoming an important center for trade and governance.
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Rwanda gained independence from Belgium on July 1, 1962. Kigali was chosen as the capital of the newly independent nation, due to its central location and existing infrastructure. The early post-colonial period was marked by political instability and ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities, which had been exacerbated by colonial policies.
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One of the most tragic periods in Kigali's history occurred in 1994, during the Rwandan Genocide. Over the course of approximately 100 days, an estimated 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu were killed by extremist Hutu militias. Kigali was a significant site of violence and suffering during this period. The genocide left a profound impact on the city's population and infrastructure.
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Following the genocide, Kigali underwent a remarkable transformation. The Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) took control of the country, and efforts were made to rebuild the city and heal the deeply divided society. Kigali has since become a symbol of resilience and progress, with extensive urban development, modernization projects, and a focus on reconciliation and unity.
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Today, Kigali is a vibrant and rapidly growing city, known for its cleanliness, safety, and progressive policies. It is a hub for international organizations, businesses, and conferences, often referred to as the 'Singapore of Africa.' The city boasts modern infrastructure, including the Kigali Convention Centre, numerous hotels, and an efficient public transportation system. Kigali also embraces its cultural heritage, with landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which serves as a poignant reminder of the past while promoting education and peace.
Kigali Essentials
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Kigali is serviced by Kigali International Airport (KGL), located about 5 kilometers east of the city center. The airport is well-connected with major cities in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Direct flights are available from cities like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Istanbul, Doha, and Amsterdam. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service to reach your accommodation in Kigali.
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Kigali offers various transportation options, including taxis, moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis), and public buses. Taxis are available throughout the city, and ride-hailing apps like Yego and SafeMotos provide convenient services. Moto-taxis are a quick and affordable way to get around but make sure to wear a helmet. Public buses operate on fixed routes and are an economical option for traveling within the city. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.
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The official currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major shops in Kigali, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and many accept international cards. It's a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
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Kigali is considered one of the safest cities in Africa, but it is still important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. Some neighborhoods, such as Nyamirambo and Kimironko, are known for higher crime rates targeting tourists, so exercise extra caution in these areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance, 110 for the fire department, and 912 for medical emergencies. Kigali has several hospitals and clinics, including King Faisal Hospital and the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering religious sites and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers and give up your seat to elderly persons. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Kigali like a local, visit the Kimironko Market for fresh produce and traditional Rwandan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to understand Rwanda's history and resilience. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the Nyamirambo neighborhood, known for its vibrant culture and street art.
Trending Landmark in Kigali
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Kigali Genocide Memorial
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Kigali Convention Centre
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Kigali City Market
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Hôtel des Mille Collines
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Inema Arts Centre
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Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV)
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Kigali CarFree Zone
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Rwanda Art Museum
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Kandt House Museum
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Centre Saint-Paul
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St Famille Church
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Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
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Niyo Arts Gallery
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Now Now Rolex
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Romantic Garden
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