How to be a Digital Nomad in Kigali, Rwanda - CraftEngineer.com
So, recently I had the opportunity to work remotely from Kigali, Rwanda, and it was an unexpectedly delightful experience. Here’s what I discovered during my stay:
Safety in Kigali
Kigali is very safe, even for expatriates. While there are certain parts of the city best avoided, the risk is more about discomfort than danger. I found Kacyiru and Kimihurura to be the best parts of the city for a stay.
Internet Connectivity
The internet speed in Kigali is impressive, with a stable connection throughout. Mobile data coverage is also reliable. I recommend getting a local sim from MTN provider for data and some free minutes, which are essential for other services. However, I wouldn't suggest the @airalocom esim due to poor coverage.
Convenience of Online Services
For those accustomed to Western lifestyles, Kigali won’t disappoint. Apps like RushFood and Tuma250 make grocery and meal deliveries easy and convenient.
Coworking Spaces
Kigali hosts several coworking spaces. Waka Town, with its gym and affordable daily passes, is a great option. Although @impacthub Kigali was full during my stay, it’s another popular choice for digital nomads.
Coffee Shops for Working
Working from coffee shops here is a breeze, thanks to the high-quality food, coffee, and laptop-friendly environment. My top picks are "Question Coffee" and "Rubia Coffee Roasters."
Accommodation
Airbnb offers some great options in Kigali. I stayed in a cozy place hosted by Kate (https://airbnb.com/rooms/28577068), which served as a perfect base for traveling around Rwanda. Hotels are also a good choice, but I preferred the homeliness of an Airbnb.
Local People
Be ready for attention, especially from children asking for money, stemming from an NGO-centric mindset. It’s okay to ignore these requests, as even locals advise it, saying, "Guests are our blessing."
Transportation
One thing that is NOT working in Rwanda are taxis and ride-sharing apps. They exist, but drivers don't use them. For airport transport, schedule a driver in advance. In all other cases, you will be using 'motos' for transportation, which are everywhere and fun to take.
Conclusion
My first trip to Africa, specifically Rwanda, was an enriching experience. Often referred to as the "Singapore of Africa," Rwanda encourages curiosity and exploration. Remember, life is too short for anything less.
This article was originally published on https://craftengineer.com/. It was written by a human and polished using grammar tools for clarity.
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