Top 10 Hangout Spots In Kigali And Gisenyi Rwanda

Rwanda is a country full of natural beauty, with volcanoes, lakes and national parks – and has experienced incredible economic growth in recent years. In this serene setting, many cafés, restaurants and bars have sprung up in the last couple of years, and we explore 10 of the best hangout spots in Kigali and Gisenyi.

1. Cafe Neo, Kigali

Cafe, Coffee, North American

With some of the best coffee in town, reasonably priced food and drinks, a professional, friendly and quick service, Cafe Neo is the place to be for every coffee lover, and anyone trying to find a cosy place to relax, hang out with friends, read a book or maybe even do some work. It is the kind of place where they let you stay around, even after finishing your last sip of coffee. There are not many food options on the menu, making it more a place to enjoy good coffee and drinks, and relax in a nice setting which blends North American and local styles.

2. Blues Cafe, Kigali

Cafe, Restaurant, African

This spot offers big and tasty salads, delicious burgers and sandwiches, and the best iced mocha drink to be had in Kigali. The café has an indoor and outdoor sitting area. The views are not the best as it overlooks parking lots, but it is still nice to be able to sit outdoors. For those with some time ahead of them, looking for a nice place to hang out and meet with friends, the Blues Cafe is a cosy and relaxed place to do so.

ThaiJazz, Gisenyi

Whether during the day or at night, ThaiJazz has something to offer everyone. It is conveniently located right in front of Lake Kivu, allowing visitors to take a dip or sunbathe while listening to some good jazz music. The place is beautifully designed, and the atmosphere so relaxed that it will make everyone feel at home at once. The owner is one of the friendliest, making sure everything is running smoothly and everyone is satisfied. On top of that, the food is tasty and fresh – especially the fish, since restaurant is located right next to the fish market. Make sure to order a portion of mouthwatering fried sambaza fish coming straight from the lake.

ThaiJazz, Avenue de la Production, Gisenyi, Rwanda, 250 788 202 027

Sambaza at ThaiJazz I Courtesy of Sarine Arslanian

Chez Nyanja, Gisenyi

Wondering where the party is at while in Gisenyi? The answer is Chez Nyanja. During the weekends, many residents from Goma, DRC, and from around Rwanda head here. Situated very close to the border with Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chez Nyanja is the best place to go to to have a couple of drinks and dance to afrobeats, rumba, hip hop and much more. Right on the edge of Lake Kivu, starting from around midnight, big crowds will gather to make the night one to remember.