Rwanda Primate Adventure

Located in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda has transformed into one of the continent’s most inspiring and rewarding travel destinations. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and commitment to conservation, the country offers visitors the unforgettable opportunity to track endangered mountain gorillas in the mist-shrouded forests of Volcanoes National Park, part of the spectacular Virunga Mountain range. Beyond gorilla trekking, travellers can relax along the scenic shores of Lake Kivu, explore the ancient rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, home to chimpanzees and numerous other primate species, or discover the wildlife-rich savannahs of Akagera National Park. Combining remarkable wildlife encounters, dramatic scenery and a rich cultural heritage, Rwanda offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, nature and authentic African experiences.

• U.S. travelers can generally use visa-on-arrival or approved online visa options; check current conditions at https://www.migration.gov.rw/ .
• Confirm passport validity, permitted stay and requirements for any return entry from Uganda or other neighboring countries.
• Carry gorilla-trekking permit and itinerary details where applicable.

For U.S. passport holders. Requirements depend on nationality, routing and transit countries. Verify official rules before departure; CURAH can assist, but each traveler is responsible for entry documents.

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 

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 

• Discuss routine vaccinations, malaria prevention and yellow-fever documentation with a travel-health professional.
• Gorilla trekking involves altitude, uneven terrain and exertion; disclose relevant mobility concerns and follow trekking health rules.
• CDC resource: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

• Rwanda restricts plastic carrier bags and certain single-use plastics; pack reusable alternatives.
• Follow all gorilla trekking rules, including guide instructions and minimum wildlife distances.
• Avoid photographing sensitive security locations; respect local customs and laws.
• Review the current advisory: https://travel.state.gov/

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. 

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. 

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 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