In the heart of the Land of a thousand hills sits Kigali city. Among the safest and friendliest of African capitals, City of Kigali is blessed with a moderate high altitude climate characteristic of its tropical location, and is conveniently located within three hours’ drive of the main tourist sites.
Kigali city is made up of three districts namely Gasabo, Kicukiro and Nyarugenge. Its population is predominantly comprised of the youth that support its growing commercial appeal. Kigali city is an embodiment of Rwanda’s history as well as a manifestation of the country’s future. It is a gateway to the numerous tourist attractions that Rwanda boasts of.
Within the city are found historic sites commemorating the worst bit of Rwandan history: the 1994 genocide against Tutsi people. At the Gisozi Genocide memorial, the harrowing and horrific events of this period are immortalized. The people of Rwanda have however chosen to put the past aback and developed strong social relationships over ethnic differences. One of the most interesting social events is the “Umuganda” whereby communities involve in voluntary cleaning of their surroundings. This is done every last Saturday of the month whereby all business and activities are halted.
In Kigali one can have a taste of the beautiful Rwandese culture by attending traditional dances locally know as “intore”. The dance is a series of graceful leaps and arm swaying by ladies and gentlemen adorned with colorful beads, colorful sisal threads among other ornaments. The dance is believed to be inspired by the indigenous long-horned cattle that originate from Rwanda. There are also numerous crafts and book shops around the city where one can buy souvenirs and literature about Rwanda. The convenient location of Kigali makes it a gateway to tourism in Rwanda especially to those that come to visit the endangered mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes national park.