Kigali

The capital of Rwanda and of African technology, Kigali reveals its cosmopolitan charms on a series of hilltops. Among the highlights are Sainte-Famille (Holy Family) Church, Madina Mosque, Presidential Palace Museum (where the wreckage of the plane that carried President Juvénal Habyarimana is on display), a natural history museum and the Genocide Memorial in Gisozi.

Spend time in Kimironko or Nyabugogo markets, and take a tour of COOTRAC – a craft cooperative that brings together artisans from across Rwanda. Art galleries welcome you to stop by, the most famous one being Inema Art Center. For a breath of fresh air, go for a hike on Mount Kigali. The city’s rich cultural life revolves around the Afropolitain Nomad Festival (July), Ubumuntu Arts Festival (also July) and KigaliUp Festival (August).