Best Rwanda Travel Tips
Climate
Both Rwadan and Uganda have an equatorial climate, with rainfall spread throughout the year.
Dry Seasons (June-September & December-February): Best for gorilla trekking with less mud and clearer trails.
Wet Seasons (March-May & October-November): Lush landscapes but muddy trails making trekking more challenging.
Language
Kinyarwanda is the national language, while English and French are widely spoken, especially in cities and tourism areas.
Currency
The Rwandan Franc (RWF). USD is accepted at hotels and lodges, but exchanging local currency is recommended for small transactions.
Electricity
Rwanda uses 220/240 volts with British-style three-pin plugs. Travelers should bring plud adapters.
Good To Know
1. Entry and Visa Requirements
Most travelers can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival, though e-visas are also available. Ensure your passport has six months’ validity, and carry a yellow fever certificate if arriving from a risk country. Drones must be declared upon entry.
2. Vaccinations and Medications
Update routine vaccines and consider hepatitis A/B, typhoid, cholera, rabies and meningitis depending on your itinerary. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended; talk with your doctor about options like atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline. Use repellent and long sleeves to help avoid bites.
3. Book Gorilla Trekking Permits Early
Permits are limited and sell out months in advance, especially from June to September. Permits are issued through the Rwanda Development Board or licensed operators.
4. The Country Is Extremely Clean
Rwanda is famously clean and plastic-free. Plastic bags are banned, and monthly community clean-ups, called Umuganda, keep cities and villages spotless. Bring reusable bags and water bottles.
5. Cash and Cards Are Both Accepted
Most hotels accept credit cards, but it’s smart to carry RWF for small shops, markets and rural areas. ATMs are common in Kigali and major towns.
6. Altitude Can Affect You
Much of the country sits well above 4,000 feet, and trekking reaches even higher elevations. Stay hydrated, pace yourself and take breaks when needed.
7. Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly, especially in rural communities. Greet elders first, ask permission before taking photos and learning a few Kinyarwanda phrases goes a long way. Supporting local artisans and cooperatives helps strengthen community tourism.
8. Safety Considerations
Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest countries, but take standard precautions in cities: secure your valuables, use ATMs with care and avoid walking alone late at night. Stay aware near the DRC border and avoid restricted zones.
Visas
Most visitors can easily obtain a visa for Rwanda. Travelers from many countries can apply for an e-visa online before arrival or receive a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and land borders. The standard single-entry tourist visa is valid for 30 days.
Click HERE to apply for an e-visa.
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What Awaits on a Rwanda Safari
Trek with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda is one of the few places on Earth where you can come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas—a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Explore Scenic Landscapes and Volcanic Peaks
From the lush rainforests of Nyungwe to the dramatic Virunga Mountains, Rwanda offers breathtaking scenery that goes far beyond its famous primates.
Connect with Rwanda’s Culture and Resilience
Visit vibrant markets, learn about traditional Intore dance, and hear stories of hope and recovery in a country that’s as inspiring as it is beautiful.
Let’s Craft Your Rwanda Adventure
What our clients say when they finally stop researching and just go
What Awaits on a Rwanda Safari
Trek with Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda is one of the few places on Earth where you can come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas—a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park.
Explore Scenic Landscapes and Volcanic Peaks
From the lush rainforests of Nyungwe to the dramatic Virunga Mountains, Rwanda offers breathtaking scenery that goes far beyond its famous primates.
Connect with Rwanda’s Culture and Resilience
Visit vibrant markets, learn about traditional Intore dance, and hear stories of hope and recovery in a country that’s as inspiring as it is beautiful.
