Rwanda Travel Guide, Travel Guide Rwanda

With great expertise in arranging Rwanda safaris, we have come up with a Rwanda travel guide to help our clients planning to come for African safari tours in Rwanda- an attractive country known as the Land of a Thousand Hills.

In this blog about comprehensive Rwanda travel tips, we have clearly shown the best destinations in Rwanda to explore, the attractions, and the notable things to do by tourists on vacation in Rwanda. Likewise, you’re going to find out the best time to visit Rwanda, how to keep safe on your trip, and see the numerous hotels or lodges to use on your stay to mention but a few.

Below, you are going to find out everything you should know before visiting Rwanda. Furthermore, if you have a plan to safari Rwanda get in touch with our team to tailor for you a tour in Rwanda Africa of your choice.

How to Travel to Rwanda Kigali?

Rwanda can be reached by air or by use of a tour vehicle.

Below is how various visitors coming for holiday safaris in Rwanda travel to this stunning country.

Getting to Rwanda By Air

All international flights to Rwanda arrive at Kigali International Airport on the outskirts of Kigali city- the capital city of Rwanda.

Some of the common airlines that fly to Rwanda include; Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airline, RwandAir, KLM, Emirates, and EgyptAir.

From Kigali International Airport, you’ll tour operators will pick you up to the next destination on your trip.

Visiting Rwanda By Car

Most people who drive to Rwanda are on their way back from gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. From Uganda, you can cross to Rwanda via the Kyanika border in Kisoro or Katuna in Kabale District.

Rwanda Travel Guide on Rwanda Entry Requirements

As you make plans to travel to Rwanda Kigali, you should know that you need to have certain documents with you in order to get into the country.

These are Rwanda travel requirements for tourists coming for Rwanda safaris;

i.            Rwanda Visa

A visa is one of the most important documents you need to visit Rwanda! You can get a visa when you get to Rwanda, but we strongly advise that you get your visa before you leave. If you apply for your Rwanda visa online, you won’t have to wait in long lines when you get there.

Some nationals can travel to Rwanda without a Visa therefore, you should also check to see whether you qualify as well. Here is the link for more details; https://www.visagov.com/en/rwa-visa-for-rwanda.

When you book your trip through us, we’ll be there to help you get your visa.

A Rwanda tourist visa costs $50 while the East Africa Tourist Visa costs $100. The East African tourist visa allows you to tour all countries in East Africa except Tanzania.

ii.            Valid Passport

There should be at least six months left on your passport after the date you come to this country. Also, there should be a blank page for the visa stamp.

iii.            Certificate of Yellow Fever

People coming to Rwanda from countries where yellow fever is common, like the United States, need to show proof that they have been vaccinated against the disease. In most East African countries, you’ll also need this card.

Comprehensive Rwanda Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Rwanda Africa

Even though Rwanda is a small country, it has some of the best travel spots in the world. In this Rwanda travel guide, we have brought to you some of the places you can’t miss out on your Rwanda safari vacation.

Here are the top places to visit by tourists on Rwanda tours;

1)      Akagera National Park Rwanda

Akagera National Park is the only grassland protected area in Rwanda where you can go for wildlife viewing. Big game animals live in this beautiful park. These animals include Cape buffalos, Lions, Rhinos, Elephants, Leopards, Spotted Hyenas, Zebras, Giraffes, various Antelope species, Hippos, Nile crocodiles, etc.

Likewise, visiting Rwanda Akagera on a Rwanda trip is sure to satisfy your passion for birdwatching. More than 480 bird species call this land home. There are a lot of endemic species, such as the Red-faced barbet, raptors, and other savannah birds. Lake excursions in Akagera also offer a good chance to see various waterbirds, such as Herons, Crowned cranes, Kingfishers,  Cormorants, African fish eagles, and Open-billed storks.

The unusual and ancient-looking shoebill, sometimes called a “whalehead,” may even be visible if you’re lucky.

Note;

• Nearly 800 animal species call Rwanda’s Akagera, Central Africa’s largest protected wetland, home. There was the introduction of Lions in 2015 and then Eastern black rhinos in 2016 in Akagera NP. For the first time in nearly 20 years, Akagera became a renowned Big 5 safari destination thanks to these successful reintroduction programs.
• The picturesque land of Akagera is now run in conjunction with the non-governmental conservation organization African Parks, which has had a profoundly beneficial effect on wildlife.
• Most game animals in Kenya and Tanzania can be spotted in Rwanda’s Kagara land area.

2)      Volcanoes National Park

Mountain gorillas can only be seen in a few places in the World, and Volcanoes National Park is one of them. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda are two more countries globally where you can trek mountain gorillas. All these are on the African continent.

Most of the time, people who go to Volcanoes National Park are interested in Rwanda gorilla trekking tours. However, on your visit in this gorilla park, it’s possible to do volcano hiking, enjoy golden monkey trekking, visit the tombs of Dian Fossey, and bird watching, among other activities.

Around Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, you can as well explore Ibyiwacu Cultural Village- a rich place for cultural tours in Rwanda.

3)      Nyungwe National Park

Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest is a beautiful stretch of tropical rainforest covering about 1,019km2. This protected area is famous for Rwanda chimpanzee tours. Aside from chimpanzees, Nyungwe National Park is home to other primates and a lot of birds, including over 29 Albertine endemic bird species.

The popular tourist activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park are; chimpanzee tracking, birding, nature walks as well monkey tracking. Visitors interested in tracking monkeys in this stunning rainforest should be expected to spot; L’Hoest’s monkeys, Grey-cheeked mangabeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys Vervet monkeys among many others.

4)      Rwanda Genocide Memorial Centers

When you visit Rwanda, you should at least explore one of the genocide memorial sites. During this adventure, you’ll learn about the brief history Rwandan genocide of 1994, in which more than 800,000 people were killed with machetes in just 100 days.

Today Rwanda genocide museum sites hold the skulls of people who died in the genocide and remind people of this terrible war.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is usually not missed on most city tours of Kigali. Tours to explore genocide sites are open any time of the year.

5)      Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, one of several enormous freshwater lakes found along the Great Rift Valley in Africa, encircles Rwanda on its western side.

Driving between the towns of the Lake Kivu region is the true thrill of this Rwandan hidden treasure. The road softly twists and turns as it meanders through the beautiful hills and mountains that surround the lake. If you’d like to take your time and see the beautiful beaches and calm waters of Lake Kivu on your way between Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest, this is a great alternative.

Rwanda Travel Guide on Top Things to Do in Rwanda By Tourists on Rwanda Safaris and Tours

This Rwanda travel guide has summarized the most common tourism activities for travelers who visit Rwanda and among these include;

1.      Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park in Virunga Mountains

The best part of most Rwanda tours is tracking Mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Travelers undertaking gorilla trekking will enjoy a lifetime encounter with the endangered Mountain gorillas- (the great apes) in their natural habitat.

Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris are best done during the dry season but, these expeditions are open to visitors year-round.

2.      Track Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee trekking tours in Nyungwe National Park are just as exciting as gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park.

Expeditions for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park take you deep into this rainforest to meet chimpanzees, which are closely related to humans. Crazy as it may seem, chimpanzees and humans share over 98–99% of their DNA. Because of this, most of their actions are like men’s.

Chimp trekking in Nyungwe Forest will make you think that chimps are real people living in the wild! Expect to spot other primate species and many birds along the chimp trekking trail.

3.      Wildlife Viewing in Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park wildlife viewing tours give travelers on Rwanda safaris a golden chance to spot the popular game animals in Africa including the African Big Five.

During game viewing tours in this area, you’ll encounter; large herds of Zebras, Buffalos, Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, Giraffes, Elephants, Crocodiles, Hippos, and many Antelope species. These animals are commonly spotted while on game drives, and boat cruises.

4.      Going for Kigali City Walking Tour

Most of the time, tours of Kigali are done on the first or last day of your trip in Rwanda.

Tourists usually go to places like the Kigali genocide memorial site, craft shops, local markets, the Presidential House Museum, and so on. Expect to explore the economic life of Rwandese.

You’ll like how clean and well-kept Kigali city is while on this tour! At the top of the list of cleanest towns in Africa is Kigali.

Other fun things to do in Rwanda on your vacation;

• Bird watching
• Nyungwe forest canopy walking
• Hike volcanoes in Volcanoes National Park
• Enjoying cultural encounters in Iby’iwacu Cultural Village
• Relaxing on Lake Kivu. While here, you can enjoy the dramatic views of the Virunga Mountains
• Explore Kigali Cultural Village
• Participate in Umuganda Day done in the last Saturday of the month. Every last Saturday of the month, it’s mandatory for Rwandese to participate in community cleaning.

Rwanda Travel Guide: Best Hotels in Rwanda – Where to Stay in Rwanda During Your Safari?

You can choose from a variety of hotels to use during your Rwanda holiday trip based on your interests & budget. These facilities are categorized into three categories; luxury, midrange as well as luxury lodges.

No matter where in Rwanda you go on vacation, you’ll be able to find a place to stay!

The following are some of the best lodges in Rwanda in this Rwanda travel guide;

1. One and Only Nyungwe House
2. Ruzizi Tented Lodge
3. Lake Kivu Serena Hotel
4. Virunga Lodge
5. Serena Hotel in Kigali
6. Bisate Lodge- is a high-end hotel usually used by high-class tourists on Rwanda gorilla tours in Volcanoes National Park in Virunga Mountains.
7. Akagera Game Lodge
8. Magashi Camp

Our expert in tailoring your Rwanda safari trip will help you as you choose a place to stay on your vacation.

Rwanda Packing List- What to Pack for African Safari in Rwanda?

For a great trip in Rwanda, there are some safari items that you should never miss in your pack list as you plan to visit this country.

According to this Rwanda travel guide, these are the items you should come with on an African safari trip in Rwanda;

• Hiking shoes are great while on the Mountain gorilla trek. You can visit Mountain gorillas in Rwanda gorilla park.
• Personal toiletries
• Rain jacket and warm jumper, so ideal during the trek for Mountain gorillas or chimpanzees
• Safari clothes
• Nice camera with extra batteries
• Insect repellent- so great while tracking Mountain gorillas
• Sunhat & sunglasses
• Charger for your camera
• Personal ID cards including a passport, & a driving permit.
• Simple day backpack- keeps all your day essentials as you track Mountain gorillas.
• First aid kit
• Sandals for evenings
• Water bottle
• Flashlight
• A notebook and a pen. You might write something about Rwanda’s history. Usually, people enjoy writing about Rwanda’s history while on a visit to the genocide memorial site.
• Travel insurance if possible

Rwanda Travel Guide: Best Time to Travel to Rwanda- When to Visit Rwanda Africa?

Year-round, tourists can visit Rwanda however, the best time to travel to Rwanda is during the dry months- the high season. These months include June, July, August, and September as well as December January, and February. Normally, in the dry season, the weather of this country is pleasant for safaris; little rainfall is received, allowing outdoor activities including gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing tours in Rwanda’s Akagera NP.

The wet months in Rwanda run from October to November and even March to May. Some trails for primate safaris might be challenging to hike but remain passable. Rwanda tours in the rainy season are cheap as this is a low season.

Languages Spoken in Rwanda Africa

Rwandans mostly communicate in English, French, Swahili, and Kinyarwanda. Although Rwanda has 4 national languages, Kinyarwanda is mostly spoken by people all over the country but, most people can speak French and some English.

In most tourist places in this country such as restaurants, lodges, hotels, and camps, employees can speak English but people in local markets, and various motorcyclists to mention but few speak Kinyarwanda. On booking your trip in Rwanda with us, we shall assign you a private driver guide who can speak your language to break language barriers.

Take note that the Kinyarwanda pronunciation of “Kigali” is “CHEE-GA-LEE.” Saying “CHEE-GA-LEE” Convention Center will assist drivers in understanding you better when you ask to go to the Kigali Convention Center.

What is the Time Zone for Rwanda Kigali?

Time in Rwanda is based on CAT, which is equivalent to UTC + 2. This country in East Central Africa is, 2 hours ahead of Accra, 7 hours ahead of Florida and New York, and 10 hours ahead of California.

Please ensure that you are aware of the time difference from your home country.

The Climate and Weather in Rwanda Africa

Rwanda is situated close to the Equator, so its temperatures don’t change much throughout the year. From June to September, there is a clear dry season in this country. The wet season lasts from October to May, however, January and February are drier months in the middle of it.

In general, the weather in the east of Rwanda, which includes Akagera National Park, is warm like it is in Kigali. However, because it holds a high altitude, it never gets really hot.

Mountains areas in the western part of Rwanda including national parks like like Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and Gishwati-Mukura National Park, are much cooler. Daytime temperatures are only 160C to 210. For every 1,000 meters you go up, the temperature drops by about 6.50C.

The aforementioned parks in this country receive heavy rainfall since they hold an ecosystem of rainforests.

Rwanda’s Attitude on LGBTQIA+ Community

In Rwanda, being LGBTQIA+ is not against the law. However, keep in mind that the LGBTQIA+ group in Rwanda is small which means that many people look down on them. However, some people believe that in the future, it will be possible for LGBTQIA+ people to get married in Rwanda.

Rwanda Travel Guide on Local Terms Worth Knowing

These local words will make you enjoy your dream trip in Rwanda so remarkable.

The following are some of the common words in Kinyarwanda worth knowing as you come for your Rwanda holiday vacation.

How is Wifi in Rwanda Africa? 

The Wifi in this country is generally good, especially in all luxury lodges and even standard hotels. Their Wifi is fast and reliable, but it can stop for some time. Also, the internet on a phone is good but, note that you might get some network problems while in remote areas such as parks.

If you book your trip to Rwanda with us, we shall give you free Wifi while in the tour vehicle.

Additional Travel Guide to Rwanda

These Rwanda travel tips are also relevant to visitors coming for a vacation in this country.

Currency in Rwanda?– What is the currency in Rwanda?

In Rwanda, the Rwandan franc is the official currency. US dollars can be used in some modern hotels, cabins, and grocery stores.

We tell our clients that they should change some of their foreign cash into Rwandese currency so that they can do all their transactions more easily while on a trip. The Rwandan francs are mostly used in most towns.

Take note of this:

• When buying a gorilla tracking permit or reserving a hotel room, US dollars are preferred to Rwanda frank
• There are ATMs in Kigali and other big cities.
• Credit and debit cards can be used in some places in Rwanda Africa. Visa cards are more popular than Mastercards.

Rwanda Safari Cost- How Much Does a Safari in Rwanda Cost Per Person?

There is no set price for an African tour in Rwanda because it depends a lot on how you want to travel and what you’re interested in. For example, the cost of your tour depends on how long you stay, what activities you choose, and where you stay.

On average, a one-day gorilla trip in Rwanda costs about $1,700 for each person. A 2-day gorilla tour in Rwanda costs $1900 for each person and a 3-day gorilla trip within Rwanda costs between $2,000 and $5,000 for each person.

The price above covers both the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit and the fees for getting there. It can include lodging also. Your tour provider will tell you how much each day costs.

If you are interested in a budget tour in Rwanda, we advise you to use mostly budget lodges, travel with a group, and visit Rwanda during the low season. Using local tour operators in Rwanda can be as well an alternative.

Rwanda Travel Guide on Health – Is Healthcare Good in Rwanda?

In Rwanda’s Kigali city and other towns, there are a number of medical facilities that meet Western medical standards. In other areas, there are basic health centers or services.

As you visit this country, you can get a shot for; Diphtheria, Polio, Meningococcal disease, Typhoid, Hepatitis, A, and Typhoid.

Note:

1. The chance of getting HIV is higher in Rwanda, as it is in most African countries, including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Take all the steps you can to avoid it, like not having sex without protection.
2. People from around the world who want to visit Rwanda need to have a Yellow Fever Certificate. Also, keep in mind that malaria is common in lowland areas like Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park and places near Lake Kivu. For this reason, it’s very important to take steps to avoid getting malaria.
3. Rwanda is close to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which normally receives cases of people having the Ebola virus. When the outbreak happens in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it can spread to areas that border Rwanda and Congo. For example, the areas in the east of Congo near Lake Kivu in North Kivu province are at risk.
4. Follow all safety guidelines against COVID-19.

 Safety Rwanda Travel Tips- How to Keep Safe on Safari in Rwanda? 

Is Rwanda safe for tourists? We believe that Rwanda is a safe place to visit. Each year, hundreds of tourists go there, and more than 99% of their trips end without any problems.

Several governments for instance US government have told people not to go to some remote border places. But all of Rwanda’s popular vacation spots, like Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park & Akagera NP are thought to be safe.

However, you should know that small crimes have been reported in Rwanda, just like they have in your country and every other country as well. So, keep an eye out for your hand luggage!

Here are some safety tips while visiting Rwanda Africa

• If you’re in a national park like Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, you must always follow the rules.
• When you’re out in public, don’t carry lots of cash. Also, you must keep an eye on all your things.
• Don’t show off money in public places like bars. This might call the wrong dowers for you.
• When you go to a crowded place, always leave your valuables items in your room.
• Do not walk alone in the dark streets at night. If you have to walk, you should do it on well-lit streets. Likewise, walk with game rangers in national parks.
• Using illegal drugs in this country is a crime
• The emergency number for Kigali City is 112
• In this country, it is illegal to take pictures of some military and government sites.
• To protect the earth and promote responsible tourism and travel, this country has banned plastic bags.
• You should show respect for Rwandan culture! Genocide is something that you should never talk about or ask people about because so many people lost loved ones. For those who are still traumatized by this, all you have to do is go to the Kigali genocide memory center.
• If there are still places and meetings that need COVID-19 checks, you can taste for COVID-19 at some health facilities- health centers and other approved places for rapid antigen tests.

 Rwanda Travel Guide and Advice About the Rwanda Culture and Traditions; Rwanda Cultural Awareness 

Rwandans have a unique set of social rules and behaviors that make them warm and friendly.

If you want to show respect for Rwandan culture while you’re on vacation, you must know about these.

1)      Greetings

Greeting people is a big deal in this country because it shows respect. When you meet someone for the first time, you should always shake their hand and say “Muraho,” which is a Kinyarwanda word that means “how are you?”

Hugs, not kisses, are a popular way for close friends and family to show affection.

2)      Clothing in Rwanda- How Should I Dress in Rwanda Africa?

Most Rwandan people dress courteously! In most cases, women wear dresses or skirts that end at least below the knees. Men, on the other hand, wear pants and long shorts.

People should dress modestly and take off their hats and sunglasses when they are on Rwanda culture tours, in a government building, or at a religious site.

3)      Body Language

Never use your finger to point at someone in this country. You should still be aware of your hand movements because they may not mean the same thing in this country as they do in yours.

4)      How to Behave at a Table While Eating

When you go to a Rwandan home for a meal, it’s always nice to bring a gift for the family. Also, it’s polite to wait for your friend to eat before you start eating. Wash your hands before you eat as well.

Rwandan Food- What Kind of Food Do They Eat in Rwanda Africa? 

There are a lot of different regional foods in Rwanda to suit tourists from all over the world. In Rwanda, people like to eat fresh fruits and vegetables like avocados, mangoes, papayas, and corn. They also like to eat foods from other nations.

Among the common traditional foods in this country includes; Umutsima, which is a mix of corn and cassava. The other is Isombe, which is cassava plant leaves mixed with spinach and eggplant.

If you want to have a memorable trip in Rwanda, you should try Akabenz, which is pork served with plantains.

Modern African cuisine and drinks are served in all standard and luxury hotels in Rwanda and some budget facilities.

While on your trip to Rwanda, avoid drinking water from the tap. It might not be safe for your life and health so, stick to bottled or boiled water for a great life.

More FAQs About Rwanda Tours 

1.      Can US Citizens Travel to Rwanda Africa? : Is Rwanda Safe for American Tourists to Visit? 

Rwanda is open to tourists from everywhere in the world. A lot of people have been to Rwanda, and most of them had a good time. People think that Rwanda is one of the best places in East Africa to go for a vacation.

Even though Rwanda is a safe place to visit, you should always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

People traveling near the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo should be careful because of the tense political situation there. Also, follow always the local news to see what new protection information comes out.

2.      Why Is Rwanda So Famous in Africa?

Rwanda is famous for Mountain gorillas as well as being one of the peaceful countries in East Africa and Africa as well. Gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda take place in Volcanoes National Park in the far northwest of the country.

3.      Is Rwanda a Good Place for Tourists in Africa?

The fact this country is safe and holds various tourist destinations including a gorilla park, Rwanda is a good place to visit. While on your trip, you can enjoy gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, plus game viewing in Rwanda’s Akagera NP.

4.      Why Do Tourists Go to Rwanda Africa?

A number of tourists visiting Rwanda Rwanda Africa are interested in gorilla tracking safaris in Volcanoes National Park. Though Kenya and Tanzania are the most popular countries for wildlife safaris, there is no tracking Mountain gorillas.

Tourists can combine both Tanzania or Kenya tours with Tanzania safaris.

5.      Is Rwanda Expensive to Visit?: Is Rwanda a Cheap Country to Tour?

Rwanda is not an expensive destination to travel to. The cost for a Rwanda trip depends on your travel style for example, you might choose to do a luxury safari or a budget tour in Rwanda. Our Rwanda travel expert will tailor a trip that suits your budget.

6.      Should I Go to Rwanda or Uganda? : Which Is Better Rwanda or Uganda?

Both these two countries are great for wildlife viewing tours in East Africa. Uganda holds many parks for game viewing tours, unlike Rwanda. Destination Rwanda is a great site for visitors with limited time with a love of adventuring. In all nations, you can spot the Big Five, and even do chimp tracking and gorilla trekking expeditions.

7.      Is It Safe to Walk Around Rwanda Africa?

In Africa, Rwanda ranks among the top countries with low crime rates. Therefore it can be safe to walk in the night. Even though this nation is safe, as a responsible travel agent, we don’t recommend our clients to move in the night! Just like it is in your country, most crimes usually happen in the night. Why should you be a victim?

8.      How Many Days Are Enough for Rwanda?

We recommend at least 5-10 days in Rwanda for an extraordinary vacation. Within these days, you explore most of the national parks in this country. However, if you don’t have time, a 1-day gorilla trek is possible in this beautiful country in East Africa.

This Rwanda travel guide or Rwanda travel tips have been carefully drafted to give light to our clients planning to undertake African holiday tours in Uganda. The blog sums up the best destinations, attractions, and tourist activities every traveler on a trip in this country should never miss out on vacation. Lastly, it analyses Rwanda travel advice worth knowing for every traveler with intentions of visiting Rwanda.

If you intend visiting Rwanda in time to come, contact our travel specialist with any inquiries about Rwanda tours today!