Rwanda: Clean, Modern & Forward-Looking Country #126 | 03–07 August 2025
Rwanda completely stood out from the other countries I visited in this part of Africa. Often called the “Singapore of Africa,” it feels noticeably cleaner, safer, and more organized than most of its neighbors.
Arrival & Stay in Kigali
I arrived at Kigali Airport and took a taxi to the city center for 20 USD, which I could even pay by card — a small detail that already felt surprisingly advanced. The city itself is impressively clean with good roads and new infrastructure everywhere.
I stayed at the Zaria Court Hotel, a modern, newly built complex featuring a basketball court and small shops. It offered a comfortable and contemporary base during my stay.
Exploring Kigali
After many intense travel days, I took one full day to relax. I walked to Question Coffee, a popular café just 15 minutes from the hotel, where I finally saw other tourists. The fact that I felt comfortable walking alone says a lot — Kigali felt very safe compared to other cities on this trip (though I still recommend using a guide for peace of mind).
The following day I did a city tour with a friendly female guide from GetYourGuide. Kigali is clearly developing fast — new shopping centers, clean public spaces, and a well-maintained main square. The progress is visible and impressive.
Gorilla Side Trip
One very early morning (I woke up at 2:30 am!), I crossed into Uganda for a gorilla trekking experience (see my Uganda report for details). It was a long 4-hour drive each way. Note: If you want to see gorillas, it’s significantly cheaper in Uganda (800 USD) compared to Rwanda (1,500 USD per person + guide fees).
Final Thoughts
Rwanda is doing something right. The cleanliness, modern infrastructure, and sense of order make Kigali one of the most pleasant capital cities in East Africa. While it’s still developing, the direction is clearly positive.
Would I recommend Rwanda? Yes — absolutely! Especially if you want a safe, clean, and well-organized African experience. Kigali is great as a base, and the country feels like it’s moving forward. Just be prepared for higher prices on premium experiences like gorilla trekking.