There is a good chance if you have been to other African cities that you will enjoy Kigali's comparatively simple way of life. Kigali is less hectic and cleaner than most African capitals. But with an expanding population of 600,000 there is constantly new houses and infrastructure being built. The city lies in the heart of Rwanda and has a good network of sealed roads going out to all areas of the country.

It is bustling and colorful, blessed with good weather, has considerably less traffic than other major East African cities, and all the necessities of life you will need for your travels. It is well worth spending a few days exploring Kigali. You might be able to see a football match at the Amahoro stadium, visit the genocide memorial museum at Gisozi and take in the sights and smells of the markets and city life. Its central location and wide range of accommodations make Kigali ideal as a travel base.
Most parts of the country can be reached from here within two hours.

The tourist office in the town center is the place to get maps and arrange your trips to the national parks. There are major flights to Kigali from Europe, Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa. The airport is about a ten minute taxi ride from town, along a newly landscaped boulevard. In Kigali there is also a major bus/taxi station where you can find transportation to almost every corner of Rwanda and beyond.