It's been two weeks since we were in Kigali with John Legend on the Move Afrika stage, and the city's charm continues to shine. For eco-conscious travelers looking for a rare blend of modernity and sustainability, Kigali is the ultimate destination. Known as the cleanest city in Africa, Kigali is a pioneer in sustainability, seamlessly blending urban development with environmental consciousness.
There are countless ways to explore Rwanda’s capital, and this guide will transport you through the city’s serene trails, spotlighting the initiatives, places, and mind-blowing experiences you can have — while also keeping your carbon footprint low.
We also have some bonus tips you don’t want to miss at the end. So, keep reading.
The Power of Umuganda
It is rare to find an entire city taking a pause, once a month — not for a holiday, but to work for the good of their community and their country. That’s Umuganda, which means “coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome” in Kinyarwanda. Held on the last Saturday of each month, this national clean-up day unites residents and businesses to clean streets, plant trees, and build infrastructure. Visitors are also encouraged to join. It is a fun activity to make friends and contribute to a larger movement of raising awareness about the urgent need for climate action.
Green City Kigali
Imagine a city where every building harnesses renewable energy, waste is recycled, and green spaces are seamlessly integrated into urban life. That vision is becoming a reality in Rwanda with The Green City Kigali project — the first green city in Africa.
Located on Kinyinya Hill, this project is a plan by the Rwandan government to build eco-friendly houses powered by renewables, alongside climate-resilient infrastructure to tackle rapid urbanization and climate change. Green City Kigali offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable urban development in Africa.
For eco-conscious travellers, the Green City Kigali will be more than a destination — it will be a real-life model of how cities can be functional and beautiful, proving that bold environmental solutions can create thriving, inclusive communities.
Zip Through Kigali Sustainably on E-bikes
E-bikes (electronic bikes) are a fun, sustainable, and effortless way to experience Kigali’s beauty while reducing your carbon footprint. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to see the city, Kigali’s eco-friendly tour guides offer both full- and half-day tours that allow you to experience the best sights, local foods, and places beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
So, if you're looking for an exciting, eco-conscious way to explore Kigali, hop on an e-bike.
Green Spaces and Car-Free Areas
For those who love cities that blend nature with modern living, Kigali offers the perfect balance of green spaces, sustainability, and urban culture. The city is home to scenic spots like Nyarutarama Lake, a peaceful retreat near the Kigali Golf Course, ideal for birdwatching and quiet reflection.
To experience Kigali’s eco-conscious side, a visit to the Kigali Car-Free Zone, also known as Imbuga City Walk, is a must. This free-to-visit 520-meter pedestrian corridor is filled with green spaces, event areas, kiosks, and other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, soak in the city’s creative energy, or grab a bite from local vendors, the Car-Free Zone provides a dynamic and eco-conscious space to connect with Kigali’s urban culture.
Kigali’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there. Aside from having a car-free zone, residents in Kigali also observe something called the Kigali car-free Sundays. Between 7 am and 10 am, two Sundays every month, everyone, including government officials, leaves their vehicles and heads out for long walks, exercises, and bonding as a community. The bi-monthly activity not only promotes the culture of sport and socialization among Kigali’s residents but also contributes to the city’s efforts to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Eco-friendly Lodges and Businesses
The city also has a growing number of eco-lodges, making it a haven for travelers looking to support green initiatives. Designed with sustainability in mind, these eco-lodges are built using locally sourced materials, powered by renewable energy systems, and use eco-conscious practices in managing waste.
Beyond their green infrastructure, these lodges actively support local farmers by sourcing fresh, organic produce straight from nearby farms. Some lodges take it a step further by organizing farm visits and hands-on workshops, where guests can learn about sustainable agriculture and traditional Rwandan farming techniques. These immersive experiences offer a unique opportunity to connect with local farmers, understand their craft, and see firsthand how responsible tourism contributes to community well-being.
For travelers seeking a stay that’s as enriching as it is eco-friendly, Kigali’s green lodges offer the perfect blend of comfort, sustainability, and cultural connection.
Bonus Tips
As promised, here are some bonus tips to help you make the most of your visit to Kigali. You might want to grab a pen for this.
- Leave the Plastic Behind
Rwanda has a strict policy on plastics and was one of the first nations to ban single-use bottles and bags. If you arrive at the airport with plastic shopping bags, expect them to be confiscated and you may get fined. Instead, bring reusable tote bags, stainless steel water bottles, and eco-friendly travel essentials. - The Cleanliness Culture is Serious Business
No jokes, littering is a big no-no in Kigali. The city has strict fines for anyone disposing of trash indiscriminately. - Try the Coffee!
Rwanda is home to some of the world’s best coffee, and Kigali’s café scene is a must-experience. Seriously, give it a try, you will also be supporting the local coffee shops. You won’t regret it! - Cash is still king in Kigali, but cashless payments are widely accepted
Carry some Rwandan francs (RWF) for street vendors, and moto-taxi rides — not every place accepts cards. While ATMs are available all around the city, cash could help you get out of sticky situations, especially if your international card doesn’t work. - Be Mindful When Taking Photos
Kigali is gorgeous, vibrant, and Instagram-worthy, but not every moment should be captured on camera. Always ask before taking photos of people, government buildings, or security forces. - Learn a few Kinyarwanda phrases — it goes a long way!
While English and French are widely spoken, learning a few basic words in Kinyarwanda like Muraho! (Hello!), Amakuru? (How are you?), Urakoze! (Thank you!) and “murabeho” (goodbye) can earn you smiles and extra hospitality from locals.