Kigali City Route: Tips, Lake Kivu and Genocide Memorial

Explore Kigali's essential sites across 10.1 km, starting with cultural etiquette tips in the city center, then visiting Lake Kivu for a weekend escape, and concluding at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This 12-minute route combines practical city guidance with Rwanda's historical significance and natural attractions.

Mode
Places
Start
Kigali – City Tips & Cultural Etiquette
End
Lake Kivu – Weekend Getaway Destination
Stops
2
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Kigali – City Tips & Cultural Etiquette
  2. Lake Kivu – Weekend Getaway Destination

Useful for your trip

Avoid
Don't bring plastic bags into Rwanda - they are illegal. Dispose of any plastic bags before landing.
Avoid
Don't be disrespectful at genocide memorials or when discussing the 1994 genocide - it remains a sensitive topic.
Avoid
Don't ask people if they are Hutu, Tutsi, or Twa - this question is not appropriate in Rwanda.
Avoid
Don't litter. Streets are kept very clean and there are few garbage cans, so eat at hotels or restaurants.
Food
Only drink bottled water in Rwanda - don't drink tap water. Even brush your teeth with bottled water. Hotels typically provide bottled water in rooms.
Transport
Don't be posh about using moto taxis (motorcycle taxis) - they're practical for navigating steep hills in this mountainous country.
Avoid
Don't take photos of people without asking permission first. Be prepared they may request a small tip in coins.
Save money
Bring new US dollars (within last 5-10 years, crisp condition) for tourism industry. Also bring Rwandan francs cash for smaller stores and tips.
Avoid
Don't expect to use credit cards often - cash-based economy. Only Visa and Mastercard are accepted where cards are used.
Tip
Don't wear safari clothes in Kigali - save them for safari. People dress more formally and respectfully in the city.
Tip
Don't forget to tip drivers, guides, and hotel staff - this is how they make their living. Tip ~$10/day in hotel tip boxes.
Timing
Don't expect to just show up for gorilla trekking - you must pre-book in advance. Limited spots available daily. Treks start early morning.

Video on this route

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