Kigali, Rwanda
Government and embassy area, very safe but formal. Nothing happening in the evenings.
Kacyiru is the government and embassy area with tree-lined streets and a quiet, almost suburban feel despite being central. Presidential Palace, US Embassy, and NGO offices are here, so security is tight with frequent patrols and good lighting. During the day you see government workers in suits heading to meetings. Evenings are dead - most people leave for other neighborhoods. Upscale cafes like Java House and Question Coffee where NGO staff work on laptops. Eating alone is normal since people come between meetings. Very safe but formal and business-focused. Pleasant for walking with the jacaranda trees, but no evening entertainment. It's basically Kigali's business district - professional and secure, not somewhere you'd hang out at night or on weekends.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Very secure even alone"
"Good for business, boring for leisure"
"Good cafes for laptop work"
"Embassy presence makes it safe"
"Nothing to do at night - go elsewhere"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Expat and professional neighborhood with restaurants, cafes, and good safety. Costs more than local areas but has better infrastructure and English-speaking staff.
Central area with restaurants, views, and close to the Genocide Memorial. Safe and convenient for first-time visitors.
Upscale area with luxury homes, expensive restaurants, and high security. Very safe but pricey and isolated from everyday Kigali.
Help other women stay safe in Kacyiru
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.