Rwanda
Kigali
There is a vibrancy and bustle about Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, that is difficult to ignore. It is a city of energy, positivity and ambition, and a melting pot of culture and cuisine, art and enterprise. It has a burgeoning restaurant and shopping scene that is well worth exploring, and it's one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa. Kigali also carries some deep scars, and a visit to the incredibly powerful Genocide Memorial Centre is a truly thought-provoking experience. Kigali is easily accessed from most international cities, and acts as the gateway for gorilla trekking and other adventures deeper into Rwanda.
Explore Kigali
Best Time to Visit Kigali
Month-by-month travel guide with weather, highlights, and expert recommendations.
Compare with other destinationsKigali in May
Weather
May sees a gradual decrease in rainfall towards the end of the month, with temperatures between 19°C and 26°C. Mornings and evenings can still be wet.
Highlights
The landscape remains incredibly lush and beautiful. Good for birdwatching as the rain subsides.
Best Areas
Kigali's culinary scene is worth exploring. As conditions improve, day trips to Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking become more feasible.
Pros
Still fewer tourists, offering good value. The transition from wet to dry brings varied scenery.
Cons
Trails can still be muddy, especially early in the month. Some dirt roads might be challenging to navigate.