Where to stay in Rwanda

Kigali

• The airport is about 10 km from the centre, so almost anywhere in the city is a short ride.
• Kiyovu, Nyarutarama and Kacyiru hold most of the hotels and guesthouses; the city centre proper is offices.
• Kigali is spread over steep hills. A place that looks close on a map may be a climb, which is why the motos exist.

Two dates that close things

• Umuganda, the last Saturday of every month. Community work, 07:00 to 11:00, and most services close. Traffic is restricted. Plan no transfers or excursions in that window.
• Kigali car-free mornings, the first and third Sunday, 07:00 to 10:00. Main roads close to vehicles.

One week a year

• Genocide Memorial Day is 7 April, and it opens an official week of national mourning. Music and celebration are curtailed, many businesses close or shorten hours, and the tone of the country changes. Travelling then is possible and asks for some sensitivity.

At night

• Kigali is safe by regional standards and walking at night is still the risk, particularly alone. Arrange transport rather than walking back.