Flights to Kigali Airport (KGL)

Discover Kigali

Cheap Flights to Kigali Airport

Those planning to visit Rwanda can find multiple cheap flights to Kigali Airport (KGL). Located on the edge of the city, this modest airport is a short distance from some of Kigali's favorite spots. Kigali International Airport had a major upgrade in 2010 so that it could accommodate 1.5 million passengers per year. As of 2016, there is continued construction to meet the demands of increasing tourism and economic activity in Rwanda.

Facilities at Kigali Airport

Kigali International Airport has one main terminal that accommodates domestic and international flights. Rwandair operates most of the airport’s domestic flights. Major airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, KLM and Ethiopian Airways operate international flights to Kigali Airport (KGL).

When you arrive at the airport, you will find some shops and cafes. To travel to downtown Kigali, you can hail a taxi right in front of the airport. Rates are between $10 and $15 depending on your destination downtown. If you barter, you may be able to get a slightly lower rate. If you are traveling light with nothing more than a small bag or backpack, consider taking a mototaxi. They can get you downtown for under $5.

Things to Do Near Kigali Airport

After taking one of the many available cheap flights to Kigali Airport (KGL), you will find several attractions nearby. Travelers in the city can visit sites such as the Richard Kandt House Museum of Natural History. At the site, you can learn about the biological and geological diversity of Rwanda. You can also learn more about Dr. Richard Kandt, who founded Kigali in 1907.

If you love the outdoors, you will want to explore Kigali’s beautiful surroundings. One fun way to see Rwanda’s natural beauty is on horseback. Horseback riding tours are available outside of the city. They take visitors up trails on Mount Kigali and over varied countryside terrain around the city.

To take in local culture, you can visit the Inema Art Center or the Niyo Art Gallery. You can also learn about Rwandan history at the Presidential Palace Museum in Rwanda.

Travel Tips for Kigali Airport

Kigali is a city that welcomes business and leisure travelers. Although Kigali is in a tropical climate, its elevation makes the weather there temperate. Daytime temperatures are around 80 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. At night, the temperatures drop to the mid-50s. Travelers should keep in mind that Rwanda has a long rainy season. If you want to avoid the rain, you should visit between June and September.

You can plan your flight to Kigali Airport (KGL) so that your trip coincides with one of the city’s yearly events. Runners will enjoy visiting in May when they can attend or participate in the Kigali Peace Marathon. Rwanda is famous for its gorillas, so consider attending Kwita Izina, a baby gorilla naming ceremony held in June. Every July, Kigali hosts the Rwanda Film Festival, and it draws visitors from all over the world.

In Kigali, you can choose to eat local cuisine or enjoy international fare. Regardless of what you eat, you can expect to pay approximately $25 for two meals in a mid-range restaurant.