Things to do in Rwanda
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Flamingo
Like the famous Fang Fang in Kampala, the Flamingo has moved into an anonymous office block in Kacyiru, but it doesn't seem to be affecting its pulling power. The sizzling platters are quite a sight, plus there is a serious selection for vegetarians, not often the case in Kigali. That said, someone should probably tell them that bean curd with beef doesn't count!
reviewed
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Parc National Nyungwe Forest
Spectacular Nyungwe Forest covers 970 sq km (374 sq mi) and is one of the largest protected montane rainforests in Africa, easily the equal of Kibale Forest in Uganda. It offers superb views of the volcanoes of the Parc National des Virunga to the north as well as numerous opportunities to view rare primates, including colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.
The forest is home to huge groups of black-and-white Angola colobus monkeys, several groups of chimpanzees, 50 species of other mammals, 270 species of tree, 275 species of bird, and an astonishing variety of orchids and butterflies.
The cost includes guided or unguided walks on any of the colour-coded forest trails and camp…
reviewed
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Parc National des Volcans
This is the definitive location in Africa to track the rare mountain gorilla and also a great place to track golden monkeys. The national park, which runs along the border between DR Congo and Uganda, is one of the most stunning sights in the region and is home to a chain of seven volcanoes, the highest, Karisimbi, maxes out at more than 4500m (14,764ft)
On the bamboo-and rainforest-covered slopes of the volcanoes are some of the last remaining sanctuaries of the mountain gorilla, which was studied in depth first by George Schaller and, more recently, by Dian Fossey. An encounter with these beautiful creatures, which despite their size are remarkably nonaggressive, is a m…
reviewed
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Giseny
Welcome to the Costa del Kivu! Gisenyi is a ritzy resort town for rich Rwandans and resident foreigners. The views over Lake Kivu and Nyiragongo to the northwest are magnificent, though be warned that the volcano blew its top in early 2002, consuming much of neighbouring Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Gisenyi is a secluded retreat for the country's well-to-do, which means that most of the action centres on the town's posh hotels and restaurants. If you're looking for something to do however, you can check out the Primus Brewery, about 7km (4.3mi) out of town along a stunning coastal road. Swimming and sunbathing on the area's lovely beaches is also a nice way t…
reviewed
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Kigali Memorial Centre
The Kigali Memorial Centre is a must for all visitors in Rwanda wanting to learn more about how it was that the world watched as a genocide unfolded in this tiny landlocked country. More than a memorial for Kigali, more than a memorial for Rwanda and its tragedy, this is a memorial for all of us, marking the Rwandan genocide and many more around the world that never should have come to pass.
reviewed
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Lalibela Restaurant
Set in the grounds of the One Love Club, this is Kigali's only Ethiopian restaurant following the demise of the Addis. It has a laid-back atmosphere in keeping with the Rasta owner and serves big portions of spicy chicken and the like on injera (unleavened bread). It rocks on as a bar later in the evening.
reviewed
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Indian Khazana
Kampala's most celebrated Indian restaurant comes south to Kigali. Khana Khazana has been spicing up people's lives for years in the Ugandan capital and now Rwanda can enjoy the subtle flavours of the subcontinent. One of the hottest places in town right now.
reviewed
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Le Poseidon Bar & Restaurant
This is Kigali's very own fast-food spot, with a lively bar and local restaurant offering sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and pastas. It draws a healthy work crowd at lunchtime and can fill up with stragglers leaving the office on Fridays.
reviewed
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Restaurant Kalisimbi
Just down the road from Hotel Gorillas, this continental restaurant has one of the best Italian selections in town, including reliable pizzas. Service comes with a personal touch making it a popular place with local residents.
reviewed
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Cercle Sportif
If you're feeling energetic or need a workout, try the Cercle Sportif , where there are facilities for swimming, tennis and golf. However, be warned, they sometimes don't allow outsiders in for no apparent reason.
reviewed
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Best of East Africa
17 days (Nairobi)
Journey through Kenya and northern Tanzania's best game parks, visit colourful markets and view the elusive Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda.
Not LP reviewed
from USD$6,990 -
New Cadillac
This long-running club is still just about holding off all-comers to remain the most popular place in town. Located in the Kimikurure district not far from the centre of Kigali, this is a large, partly open-air venue that plays a mixture of East African pop, Congolese soukous (dance music) and Western hits most nights. Drinks are pricey but you are paying to be seen. It doesn't really pick up until after midnight, but once it does, it really rocks.
reviewed
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Carwash
Quite literally a carwash, but don't worry we are not going mad. There is also a brilliant garden bar here with stacks of space to spread out. You may not always get a seat, but you won't be elbow to elbow either. Rwandans drop their cars off for a wash and give their tonsils a bit of a tickle with beer. It's cheaper to drink here than in New Cadillac, so drop by on the way to the nightclub (in the Kimikurure district).
reviewed
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Republika Lounge
The rebirth of cool! Once Zanzibar was the place to be, now the former owner has bounced back with Republika, definitely the place to be in Kigali. In the fancy Kiyovu area, there are huge views from the large terrace here. Lush furnishings, a well-stocked bar and a small menu for the midnight munchies keep the crowds happy. The handicraft shop beneath Republika Lounge is worth checking out.
reviewed
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New Cactus
Set on a commanding ridge up in Kiyovu, this restaurant has the views if you want to see Kigali by night. Outrageously popular with expats and well-to-do Rwandans alike, this place is always buzzing thanks to a good menu of French favourites and authentic pizzas. Fondues are available, plus there is a good wine list. Plan to spend liberally and you can live well.
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Chez Robert
Formerly home to the extravagant Aux Caprices du Palais, it now plays host to a Brussels exile in the shape of Chez Robert. The menu is French and Belgian and is great value for money for those that want a sophisticated meal without the sophisticated bill. The steaks are particularly good and the blue-cheese sauce the perfect complement.
reviewed
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Hotel Baobab
It is worth venturing into the wilds of Nyamirambo to this popular garden restaurant. It is also a good place to go for a meal if you want some privacy or are catching up with people you haven't seen for a while, as dining is in private pavilions. The menu is extensive, including steaks, fish and some pretty good pizzas.
reviewed
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Gorilla Adventure
4 days (Kigali)
A unique opportunity to experience Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys in their natural environment.
Not LP reviewed
from USD$2,890 -
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Cooperative des Artisans Rwandais
Cooperative des Artisans Rwandais is one of the better craft shops selling locally produced carvings, cards and paintings. Prices are generally fixed, but small discounts may be offered. It's one of a number of craft shops located near the main post office in the centre of town.
reviewed
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Abraxas
On Fridays and Saturdays, the Centre D'Echanges Culturels Franco-Rwandais plays host to leading local bands. The music is an eclectic mix of Rwandan, reggae and international covers, and after a few beers everyone finds their rhythm. Very popular.
reviewed
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Athenée
Travellers who want to do a spot of self-catering or who are planning some time in Parcs National Nyungwe Forest or de l'Akagera will find a small selection of things at this place, a sort of alimentation-style store near the main post office.
reviewed
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Bel Air Bar
Another popular local haunt with some great views over the centre of town. The beer is cheap and the atmosphere lively. 'Pass through the corridor and go upstairs' it says outside. Yes, they have finally got rid of the stairs of certain death.
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Ice & Spice
Another Indian restaurant near the city centre, this place is popular for reasonable prices and big portions. All the old favourites are here, like chicken tikka masala, and you can cool off with an ice cream for dessert, made on the premises.
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Nyira Rock
A local nightclub in the city centre, there is usually a friendly crowd here. Don't be put off if it looks closed from the main road, as the entrance is up the alley to the right. DJs, cheap beers and plenty of action towards the weekend.
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Chez John
For a more local experience, head to Chez John, a Rwandan restaurant specialising in meat and maize. The surroundings may have gone upmarket, but everyone still gets stuck into their grills and it is a good place to sink some beers.
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