Kimihurura is as close to the geographical centre of Kigali as it gets, so you’re well-positioned to travel to other parts of town. If you live well inside the residential areas of Kimi, you might have to walk awhile to get a moto on the surrounding main roads, so having a car in this area is handy. Motos that you catch here will be used to charging higher prices because of the constant stream of newbies, so this might be one area where it’s a good idea to set the price before taking a ride. Roads here used to be diabolical but most of them have now been paved.
Kimihurura isn’t packed with choices for going out late but it doe have a few of the more popular places for the boozy and dancey foreigner crown. Plus, if you’ve managed to make some friends then you’ll probably be invited to a lot of house parties in this area. People who live here seem to be the house-party-having types.
Envy – This is a proper nightclub, located on the bottom level of the massive Papyrus building. As with most clubby type places, Envy charges a cover but pop in and see if it’s busy first before paying. The real action, though, is the fun outside area where people hang out smoking and eating brochettes and cheesy potatoes into the wee hours.
Now Now Rolex – This rolex joint was mentioned above for food, but it’s also a great place to come for drinks, especially late at night where they’re one of the few places in Kigali that serve food until late.
Papyrus – When I arrived back in 2010, Papyrus was located in the same building that Trattoria (which may or may not be closed at the moment) is in now and it was, by far, the most popular place in town for foreigners. When it was shut down for some mysterious violation, people had no idea where to go an countless muzungus could be spotted wandering the hills of Kimi, lost and in search of somewhere to dance. Ok, thats an exaggeration. But times were tough, my friend. But then Papyrus reopened in a huge building not so far away and regained its former glory for awhile. But people are fickle and, these days, it’s not as popular but it’s still got a great view and I think it’s popular for watching football.
Sundowner – This place has always been more of a restaurant type place but when Paypyrus closed, it took on more of a late night party venue feel and stays open very late on the weeks, usually playing 90s dance hits. Which is awesome. Bond 7 whiskey here is cheap at Rwf 3,000 for a small bottle which has lead to some very crazy nights. At least for me.
