Car Rentals in Kigali, RWA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Kigali

Renting a car in Kigali offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. You can visit key attractions such as the Inema Art Center and the Presidential Palace Museum, both located within Kigali, or venture slightly further to Nyamata, which is just 20 km away and home to Umusambi Village and the same art centre. Additionally, the Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco Tourism Park provides a perfect spot for eco-friendly activities. The neighbourhoods of Nyarutarama and Remera, which feature cultural sites like the Campaign Against Genocide Museum and Ivuka Arts Kigali, are also easily accessible by car. Having a rental car allows you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant scenery and rich culture of Kigali, making it an ideal choice for tourists looking to make the most of their visit.

Most popular car hires in Kigali

• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is a popular choice for car hire in Kigali, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for couples, families, or groups who need ample space for luggage and comfort during their travels. With the freedom to explore Kigali at your own pace, this option provides both versatility and convenience for your journey.
• Premium SUV AWD: For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Premium SUV AWD is highly booked in Kigali. Also accommodating 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, this vehicle is perfect for business travellers, families, or groups looking for enhanced comfort and style. The all-wheel-drive feature makes it suitable for various road conditions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride as you navigate through the city.
• Compact: The Compact car is another preferred option in Kigali, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is particularly well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families who appreciate a smaller footprint and easier manoeuvrability. Its efficient size makes it a practical choice for exploring Kigali while managing luggage with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Kigali

• Europcar: Europcar is the most popular car hire supplier in Kigali, boasting two rental locations throughout the city. This supplier is ideal for travellers seeking flexibility, offering a selection of vehicles including Standard SUVs and Compact cars. With Europcar, you can easily explore Kigali’s attractions at your own pace, making it a convenient choice for managing your luggage and adjusting your itinerary as needed.

Where to stay in and around Kigali

• Nyarutarama: Nyarutarama is an appealing neighbourhood in Kigali known for its outdoor and adventure experiences. Visitors can enjoy golfing and visit the country private club, along with shopping at local centres. Key attractions include the Inema Art Center and Ivuka Arts Kigali, both galleries ideal for cultural enthusiasts, and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum, which provides profound historical insights. This area is particularly suitable for business travellers as well, given its proximity to event conference venues and modern civic buildings.
• Remera: Remera offers a dynamic atmosphere for those seeking business and adventure experiences. The neighbourhood boasts numerous public and market venues, along with facilities for music concerts. Visitors can explore cultural highlights such as the Inema Art Center and Ivuka Arts Kigali, as well as the Campaign Against Genocide Museum. With its convention centre and sports facility stadium nearby, Remera is perfect for those looking to blend business with leisure activities.
• Nyamata: Situated 20 km from Kigali, Nyamata is a city that provides a rich cultural and family-oriented experience. It features significant attractions such as memorials, historic buildings, and a holocaust museum. Notable points of interest include the Presidential Palace Museum and Inema Art Center for those interested in culture, alongside Umusambi Village, a nature reserve ideal for eco-friendly and outdoor activities. Nyamata’s serene environment makes it a wonderful destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Kigali

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Kigali

The best value period to rent a car in and around Kigali is June, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month follows a quieter April, which also sees lower demand, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. In addition, July offers slightly low prices but higher demand, making it a good shoulder month. However, May stands out as the most expensive month when demand is high, often leading to higher rental costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
June	67.6°F (19.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
August	71.4°F (21.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
November	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low