Kigali, Rwanda

• Kigali is built across several hills at about 1,470 meters elevation. The city is notably clean - plastic bags are banned and there are community cleanup days (Umuganda) on the last Saturday of each month when most businesses close until noon. Safety is generally good, particularly in areas like Kimihurura and Nyarutarama where you'll see people walking after dark.
• There's a decent cafe scene with Rwandan coffee widely available. You'll see people dining or working alone in restaurants without it being unusual. English is common in tourist areas and upscale neighborhoods, though less so in local markets where some Kinyarwanda helps.
• Police are visible but not overbearing. Rwanda has strict laws around safety and cleanliness which reduces harassment, though you should know the country is socially conservative. Dress modestly - skirts below the knee, shoulders covered - especially outside the city center or when visiting government areas.
• Moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis) are the fastest way around. Apps like Yego and SafeMotos let you track rides with vetted drivers. Public buses are cheap and efficient but require a Tap&Go card. Kiyovu, Kimihurura, and Nyarutarama have the better dining options and are more walkable, though Kigali's hills can be tiring.

Kinyarwanda, French, English, and Swahili are official languages. English is widely spoken in Kigali's hotels, restaurants, tourist areas, and by younger professionals. Emergency services (112, 912) have English-speaking operators available.

• Rwanda is conservative. Wear skirts or dresses below the knee and cover your shoulders, especially at churches, government buildings, or outside central Kigali. You can dress more casually in modern areas but modest clothing is safer everywhere.
• Greetings matter - say hello and ask how someone is before getting to business. Keep your voice calm and don't show anger publicly. Public displays of affection aren't appropriate.
• Plastic bags are banned, so bring reusable bags. Last Saturday of each month is Umuganda (community cleanup day) when most businesses close until noon. Don't bring up the 1994 genocide unless someone else mentions it first.
• When eating with locals, use your right hand since the left is considered unclean. Accept food or drink if offered, at least a small amount. Always ask before photographing people, particularly in markets or rural areas.

• Moto-taxis are the main way to get around - quick and cheap at 300-1,200 RWF per ride. Drivers wear green reflective vests and provide helmets. SafeMotos and Yego apps give you tracked rides with vetted drivers, which is safer than hailing one on the street.
• Public buses run 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM with fares under 500 RWF (about $0.50), but you need a Tap&Go card to use them. Buses are clean and regular - companies like Kigali Bus Services, Royal Express, and RFTC run most routes with 8-12 minute frequencies during peak hours.
• MOVE (Volkswagen's ride-hailing app) works like Uber with English-speaking drivers and newer cars. Regular taxis exist but cost more than motos. You can walk in upscale areas like Kimihurura and Nyarutarama during the day, though the hills make it tiring.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Kigali with local guides and curated experiences.