Kigali is a fascinating example of a future-focused African city. Once known for civil war and genocide, Rwanda’s capital has transformed into a model of urban development. In the two decades after the genocide, exiles have flocked back into the city flush with education, investment dollars, and entrepreneurial ideas. Foreigners have jumped in the mix, opening sushi joints, yoga studios, bakeries, artisan coffee shops, and even a co-working space for start-ups. The nightlife is also picking up, and you’ll find dance clubs, sports bars, and live music. With approximately 1 million people, the city is the commercial and governmental hub for the rest of the country. Its trash-free boulevards, smooth roads, LED streetlights, and meticulously manicured medians are a similar approximation of Europe to East Africa. It’s an image the country is keen to expand. The new and ultramodern Kigali Convention Centre and many new hotels have ushered in a wave of international conferences and meetings. The cunning master plan calls for an overhaul of the business district and more urban housing. Even without gleaming new buildings, the city is something to behold. The undulating skyline of red-roofed houses, terraced farm plots, and brilliant green foliage is stunning. Kigali is also safe: violent crime is rare, particularly against foreigners, and police do their job, including handing out speeding tickets. You’ll rarely find yourself hassled, and negotiating traffic will be your biggest obstacle. Some expatriates say that they feel safer raising their kids in Kigali than in U.S. cities. Highlights Your Rwanda safari entry and exit city is a pleasantly low-key yet dynamic and progressive metropolis. The clean streets are a matter of pride across every community throughout the country. The city’s wide tree-lined boulevards and unsullied squares are safe to stroll, where outsiders are generally left to their own devices unless they need assistance, in which case locals will greet them with warm hospitality. A burgeoning culture, art, and culinary scene will keep any traveler entertained on a Rwanda visit. The Kigali Cultural Village is an excellent stop to check out local artisans and taste local street food. Excellent malls offer great shopping from international brands. A world-class convention center built in the ancient King’s Palace style lights up the city’s night sky. The Kigali Genocide Memorial, which honors the memory of the more than one million Rwandans killed in the 1994 genocide, is worth visiting for travelers that want to relive the gruesome days. The track around Lake Nyarutarama, next to the 18-hole golf course, is remarkably peaceful and makes for an excellent urban nature walk, with the chance to see some of Rwanda’s incredible birds.