Rwanda is known as the land of a thousand hills, and Kigali is where most trips start. Your first day goes easier with four things sorted: how you arrive, how you pay, how you get around and what you eat.
Before You Land: Your Visa
Since 1 January 2018, citizens of all countries can get a visa on arrival without a prior application, according to the immigration directorate. Its page says the fee must not exceed 50 USD for a single entry visa or 70 USD for multiple entry, and the hotel agrees with those figures. Some nationalities pay nothing, so check the Irembo portal for yours.
1. Landing
Kigali International Airport is about 15 minutes from Step Town Hotel. The hotel says it can help with airport transfers, and it advises allowing extra time for transfers in peak traffic. If you want a rental car or private transport, write to us on the contact page before you travel.
Pack without plastic bags. They have been banned by law since 2008, and Visit Rwanda says any found in your luggage are confiscated at the airport or other point of entry.
2. Money
Carry Rwandan francs, because cards are not accepted everywhere, according to the hotel. Have some cash ready for small purchases and short taxi rides.
3. Getting Around
Reception is open 24 hours, so you can ask for help with a taxi at any time. The hotel can also arrange private transport for excursions in and outside Kigali. Whichever way you travel, agree the price before the ride starts. We have always told guests to do this.
Plan around Umuganda. On the last Saturday of each month, community work takes place across Rwanda, and Visit Rwanda says shops close and buses stop. The Kigali Genocide Memorial opens only from 1pm to 5pm that day.
4. Food
Step out of your comfort zone when you eat. Six dishes we have long recommended to guests:
Ugali and isombe
Chapati and beans
Beef cordon bleu
Beef and goat brochettes
Fish fillet and fish brochettes
Roasted chicken and roasted potatoes
The hotel's restaurant and cafe serve a traditional Rwandan kitchen all day, with vegan options. For more on the dishes, read Food in Kigali.
5. Places to Visit
Our guide to things to do in Kigali covers the Memorial, a museum, an art center and places to eat. The Memorial is about 6 minutes by car from the hotel, or about 30 minutes on foot. Entry is free, children under 12 are not admitted, and photography is not allowed inside the museum. Inema Arts Center, at KG 563 St in Kacyiru, says it is open daily but lists no hours, so call before you go. For the rest of the country, see Rwanda's main attractions.
Where You Will Stay
Step Town Hotel is a small hotel in Kigali. The rooms page lists a single room from $50 a night, with breakfast included in every room.
Tell Us When You Land
Send your arrival time on the contact page, or choose your room on the reserve page.