Flying from Kigali International Airport (KGL) to Istanbul: what you need to know
Approximately 7 hours 10 minutes is how long you'll be traveling on a direct flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul.
The timezone in Istanbul is UTC+3. The city is one hour ahead of Kigali, where Kigali International Airport is located.
For a smooth journey, arrive at the airport two hours ahead of international flights and an hour before domestic departures. That way, you won't have to rush to catch your KGL to Istanbul flight.
Longer lines at security and check-in are more likely if you're heading away during high season, so allow some extra wiggle room. A good rule of thumb for peak periods? Arrive up to four hours ahead for international flights and two hours for domestic departures.
Think about adding a stopover to potentially land a cheaper flight ticket from KGL to Istanbul. All you need to do is uncheck 'Direct flights only' during your search. Break up your trip (and maybe save some cash) by stopping at one of these airports:
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Dubai Airport (DXB)
Hamad International Airport (DOH)
KGL is about 8 kilometers from central Kigali. If you're driving, catching a cab or ride-sharing from the center, it'll take you 20 minutes or so to get there, depending on traffic conditions. If you're using public transport, expect the journey time to be around 1 hour 55 minutes.
Planning to catch an early flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul? Avoid the stress of rushing to the terminal (and sneak in some extra precious sleep) by choosing one of these hotels close to KGL:
When it comes to Kigali International Airport's on-time performance, data shows 71.6% of flights complete their journey on time.
How to find the cheapest flights from Kigali International Airport (KGL) to Istanbul
$370 is currently the lowest price for a one-way Kigali International Airport to Istanbul flight. A return flight ticket starts at $545. These prices can change depending on availability and demand.
Booking ahead of time is often the key to locking in a cheap flight from KGL to Istanbul. Prices tend to rise as demand increases, so the closer your departure date, the more expensive your ticket may be.
If you're willing to be flexible with your trip dates, check out the 'Whole month' search tool. It'll find the lowest price across every month when looking for your Kigali International Airport to Istanbul ticket.
Locking in a cheap flight from KGL to Istanbul couldn't be easier with Price Alerts. Simply set up one of these automatic notifications and we'll let you know as soon as a deal gets even better.
Find a cheap flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul with the help of our filters. Choose your preferred duration, number of stops and airlines, then sort the results by 'Cheapest' for the best deals.
Airports in Istanbul
Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)
The distance from Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) to central Istanbul is roughly 48 kilometers. It'll take you around 50 minutes to reach the center driving.
Traveling on public transport will take you around 1 hour 45 minutes.
If you're arriving on a late flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul, few things beat the convenience of staying close to the terminal. Grab your suitcases from the carousel and then be showered and sleeping not long after at one of these hotels near IST:
Fast-track your adventure by picking up an Istanbul Ataturk Airport rental car. Grab your wheels from Hit, Avec car rentals or Eren Rent a Car and explore beyond Istanbul's usual tourist stops.
To secure the lowest price, reserve your ride from Istanbul Ataturk Airport around two weeks in advance of your flight from KGL to Istanbul.
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)
The center of Istanbul is located around 48 kilometers from Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). After your flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul has landed and you've navigated your way to arrivals, expect a drive of about 55 minutes.
Traveling by public transport will take about 1 hour 30 minutes.
You'll find some comfortable places to call home for the night near SAW. Unwind and get cozy after your KGL to Istanbul flight at any of these well-located options:
The fastest way to reach your destination is with a Sabiha Gokcen International Airport rental car. Pick up your wheels from Essence, Eren Rent a Car or 724 Rent and set off in the blink of an eye.
Lock in the lowest price by securing your ride from SAW four weeks ahead of time. You can also expect to have a wider selection of vehicles.
Best time to go to Istanbul
Carefully consider your dates before booking your flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul. The city buzzes during peak season, but rates are often higher and attractions can get crowded. Plan your trip to Istanbul in low season if you prefer a more relaxed vibe.
Before locking in your Kigali International Airport to Istanbul flight ticket, think about the weather you're most comfortable in. August is the warmest month in Istanbul, with temperatures ranging from 20ºC (68ºF) to 30ºC (86ºF).
January has average temperatures of between 2ºC (36ºF) and 11ºC (52ºF). Search for a cheap ticket from KGL to Istanbul around that time if you like cooler conditions.
More about Istanbul
Start your Istanbul trip right by choosing the ideal place to stay. As soon as you've booked your flight from Kigali International Airport to Istanbul, browse our selection of hotels including:
All great journeys should include a little sightseeing. The Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower are must-do's during your Istanbul adventure.
Explore more of Türkiye (Turkey)
You've seen Istanbul, now it's time to discover other parts of Türkiye (Turkey). Journey about 354 kilometers east to Ankara to check off its leading sights. From Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to Kocatepe Mosque (Kocatepe Camii) and Genclik Park, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Izmir is another standout destination in Türkiye (Turkey) and is around 322 kilometers south-west of Istanbul. No trip is complete without visiting Kordonboyu, Kadifekale Castle and Alsancak.
