Travel information to Rwanda
Rwanda, often referred to as the "country of a thousand hills," is renowned for its natural beauty, remarkable biodiversity, and reputation for cleanliness and safety. Situated in East Africa, this landlocked nation draws in travelers from across the globe eager to explore its treasures. Among its many draws, trekking to encounter the majestic gorillas of the volcanoes stands out. These remarkable primates, an astonishing 98% of their DNA with us which makes their encounter a once in lifetime experience. Beyond gorilla trekking, Nyungwe National Park offers chimpanzees trekking whereas Akagera National Park is home to the big five" among its many treasures.
If you're considering a journey to Rwanda, we have compiled essential travel information to Rwanda to make your stay a memorable one.
The first travel information to Rwanda is visa Requirements: the visa to Rwanda is given on arrival at the airport, paid 50$. The visa fee is waived to countries of the commonwealth and “La Francophonie countries as well as all African countries’ citizens.
Other important travel information to Rwanda is Health Precautions: Malaria is prevalent in Rwanda, so taking appropriate precautions is essential like using mosquito nets and repellant. Although, Yellow fever vaccine is not mandatory when travelling to Rwanda, but it’s advisable to have it when travelling to Africa.
Banking: The currency used in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). US dollars and Euros are accepted on most of the service providers Banks are found in most towns and are generally open from 09h00 to 05h00 PM on weekdays and 09h00 AM to 02h00 PM on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services with cash, bank & credit cards as well. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centers. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.
Language: The official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, and English. English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. When travelling to rural areas and communities it is a devised to go with a driver guide who masters betters travel information to Rwanda.
Travel and Transportation: All international flights arrive at the Kigali International Airport. The international airlines operating in Rwanda besides RwandAir the national carrier, includes Qatar, KLM, Bruxelles, Turkish and Ethiopian airlines. Rwanda has a well-developed road network convenient for self-drive. Public transportation options include buses, minibuses and moto-taxis.
Accommodation: Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, lodges, and eco-lodges. Prices vary depending on the location and level of luxury.
Cultural norms and practices: Rwandans are generally warm and welcoming people. It's essential to respect local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with a handshake and using proper titles when addressing elders. Taking pictures of individuals require a permission.
Safety: Rwanda is considered one of the safer countries in Africa, but like any destination, it's essential to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, be vigilant of your belongings, and follow any local safety advisories. Make sure to have an updated travel information to Rwanda.
Best time to visit Rwanda: Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with temperatures varying depending on altitude. The dry season is from June to September, while the wet season is from March to May and October to December. Most people visit the country in the dry season when they are no many rains. Make sure to do all your booking ahead of time as the high season is always on demand and sometimes activities and hotels fully booked.
The first thing that springs to most people’s minds when thinking of Rwanda is its turbulent political history. But today’s Rwanda is a far cry from the nation it was in the mid-90s: the country has emerged from the shadows and has much to offer visitors, most notably the tracking of endangered mountain gorillas in the lush Virunga National Park, which extends across the peaks and jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Other major tourist attractions include expansive Lake Kivu, ancient Nyungwe Forest with its rich population of primate species, and the game-rich savannah lands of Akagera National Park.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Rwandan Franc
Symbol: R₣
ISO code: RWF
Subunit: Centime (1/100 of a Franc)
Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 francs
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 francs
Banking
Card Transactions: Widely accepted in major cities
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 08:00 – 17:00
Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: RwandAir
International Airports: Kigali International Airport
Domestic Airports: None
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes, primarily in urban areas
Gravel roads: Yes, common in rural areas
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Limited, primarily on lakes
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Limited
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, wash thoroughly
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, ensure it is well cooked
Street food: Yes, choose hygienic vendors
Local cuisine:
Rwandan cuisine features dishes like "Ugali" (cornmeal staple), "Isombe" (cassava leaves with eggplant and spinach), and "Brochettes" (grilled meat skewers). Staple ingredients include bananas, plantains, pulses, sweet potatoes, and beans, often cooked with a blend of vegetables and meat.
Drinks:
Local banana wine and sorghum beer are traditional drinks.
Tipping: Not customary but appreciated, usually around 5-10% in tourist areas.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region, averaging 1200 mm
Average temperature: 21°C
Summer:
Average highs: 27°C
Average lows: 15°C
Winter:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 15°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and from December to February, which are ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing, especially for seeing mountain gorillas.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Recommended during the rainy seasons
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities
Cafes: Yes, in major cities
Shopping malls: Yes, in major cities
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: C, J
Voltage (V): 230 V
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
