Short answer: Residents of Kigali use furnished short-term apartments when they are between homes, renovating, hosting family from abroad, or need a quiet place to work. Holy Apartments is open to everyone, by the night ($35 to $45) or the month ($400 to $600), with cleaning, internet, gas and all bills included.
Key takeaways
- A furnished short-term apartment can bridge the gap between leases or cover a renovation.
- It is a convenient place to host visitors close to the airport while you keep your own space.
- With all bills included you avoid setting up utilities for a temporary stay.
- Choose a one-bedroom (own kitchen) for longer or work-heavy stays, a studio (shared kitchen) for shorter, lighter stays.
Why would a Kigali resident rent a short-term apartment?
You might assume furnished serviced apartments are only for visitors. In practice, people who already live in Kigali use them often, for sensible reasons. Life does not always line up neatly: leases end before the next begins, houses need work, family visits, and sometimes you simply need a different environment to focus.
Common situations
Between homes
If your current lease ends before the next one starts, or you are moving across the city, a monthly furnished apartment avoids storage stress and rushed decisions. You can unpack, take your time, and move when your new home is truly ready.
Renovation or repairs
Renovations bring dust, noise and disruption. A furnished apartment with internet, hot water and utilities included keeps work and family life running while the work is done.
Hosting family and friends from abroad
Relatives flying in often need a comfortable, private place near the airport. Giving them their own apartment, with pickup arranged in advance, keeps arrivals simple and protects your own routine.
A quiet place to work
If home is noisy or busy, a one-bedroom apartment with its own kitchen, a separate living area and reliable internet makes a practical workspace for days or weeks.
Power or water problems at home
When utilities at your own home are unreliable, a building with a generator for backup power, hot water and security gives you a stable base temporarily.
Starting a new job or project
If a new role or project starts before your housing is ready, a short stay near the airport and your commute can ease the transition.
Short-term apartment versus a hotel
| Furnished apartment | Hotel | |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Living area, bedroom, kitchen (one-bedroom) | Single room, limited space |
| Cooking | Own kitchen (one-bedroom) or shared kitchen (studio) | Usually none |
| Monthly cost | $400 to $600 all-inclusive at Holy Apartments | Typically priced nightly, which adds up over weeks |
| Feel | Home-like | Service-led |
Choosing between the one-bedroom and the studio
- One-bedroom ($45 a night, $600 a month): separate bedroom, living area and your own kitchen. Best for families between homes, longer stays and working from home.
- Studio ($35 a night, $400 a month): a private open-plan room with a shared kitchen. Best for solo stays, short gaps and tight budgets.
Both include cleaning, internet, gas and all bills. Both are in Kicukiro, about 3 minutes from Kigali International Airport.
What to plan before you move in for a short stay
- Dates: confirm your start and end dates and allow a buffer for delays.
- Apartment type: choose based on kitchen needs and space.
- Belongings: bring essentials only. Furniture and appliances are provided.
- Parking: if you have a car, ask about parking, which is available.
- Visitors: if you are hosting, share arrival details and arrange airport pickup.
- Address updates: keep your permanent address on file for official mail and deliveries.
Hosting visiting family: a simple checklist
- Share the guest’s flight number and landing time so a driver can be arranged.
- Choose an apartment that fits the number of guests.
- Send them our arrival guide and first-time visitor guide.
- Remind them about entry requirements and the plastic bag ban.
- Agree on dates, check-out (11:00 am) and any extension.
Comparing the cost of a temporary solution
To decide between a hotel, a short-term furnished apartment and staying with friends or family, compare them on the same terms:
- Nightly versus monthly cost. Hotels are usually priced nightly. Monthly apartment rates, such as $400 (studio) or $600 (one-bedroom) at Holy Apartments, are priced for longer stays.
- What is included. Add the cost of meals, laundry, internet and transport.
- Space and privacy. Consider whether you need a kitchen and a separate bedroom.
- Flexibility. Ask what happens if your dates change.
- Distance. Consider the commute to work, school or the airport.
Tips for a stress-free temporary move
- Pack a “first week” bag with essentials so you can unpack in minutes.
- Keep a list of everything in storage and where it is.
- Update your address for important mail, or arrange collection at your permanent address.
- Set a firm end date and a plan B in case your new place is delayed.
- Let your host know early if you need to extend.
When Holy Apartments is especially convenient for residents
- You live in Kicukiro, Kanombe or nearby and want a short move.
- Your visitors arrive at Kigali International Airport, which is about 3 minutes away.
- You want parking, security, a generator and a lift on site.
- You want flexible check-in and a simple all-inclusive rate.
Scenario planner: how long will you need?
| Situation | Typical need | Good fit |
|---|---|---|
| Lease ends before the next begins | A few days to a few weeks | Studio or one-bedroom by the night, or monthly if longer |
| Home renovation | Several weeks to months | One-bedroom (own kitchen), monthly rate |
| Hosting visiting family | A few nights to weeks | One-bedroom for families, studio for one or two guests |
| A work retreat | A few days to weeks | One-bedroom with a separate living area |
| Moving across the city | Days to weeks | Either type, by the night |
Making a temporary move feel like home
- Bring a few personal items such as a photo, a favourite blanket or a speaker.
- Stock the kitchen with basics you like to cook with.
- Set up a small workspace if you work from home.
- Keep a routine: morning walks, regular mealtimes and a regular sleep schedule.
Questions to ask before you book a short-term stay
- Which dates are available, and can I extend?
- Which apartment suits my needs: one-bedroom or studio?
- What is included in the rate?
- What are the check-in and check-out times?
- Is parking available?
- Is airport pickup available for my visitors, and how much does it cost?
Neighbourhood notes for residents
Holy Apartments is in Kicukiro District, near Kanombe and close to the airport. Residents of the eastern and southern parts of Kigali will find it convenient, and people who live elsewhere may enjoy a change of scene close to the airport. For trips into central Kigali, plan for typical journey times of 20 to 30 minutes and avoid peak hours where possible.
Frequently asked questions
Can people who live in Kigali book Holy Apartments?
Yes. Holy Apartments is open to everyone.
Is it suitable if my home is being renovated?
Yes. A furnished apartment with internet and all bills included keeps life and work running during renovations.
Can I book for my visiting relatives?
Yes. Send their dates and flight details, and arrange pickup if you wish. Pickup is a paid service.
How long can I stay?
By the night or by the month. Tell us your dates for longer stays.
Do I need to set up utilities?
No. Cleaning, internet, gas and all bills are included.
Is there parking?
Yes. Parking and security are available.
Last reviewed October 2026.