Rwanda, safe, scenic, and packed with activities - though small - is a fascinating East Africa safari destination filled with amazing discoveries to delight adventurers.
Encompassing just 26 338 km² / 10169 mi², Rwanda is incredibly diverse. Landscapes in Rwanda include savannah plains, montane forests, rainforests, rolling plantation-filled hills, freshwater lakes and islands, and volcanoes. Rwanda is landlocked and shares borders with Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Contemporary Rwanda has united after the tragic genocide that occurred almost 30 years ago, and Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, is a fast-growing city where the determination, hope, and unity of the Rwandan people is palpable. Rwanda was the first African country to ban single-use plastics, and its commitment to protecting the environment is evident through social events like Umuganda, a monthly country-wide community clean-up. Rwanda’s culture of environmentalism creates a compelling reason to visit.
While Rwanda’s coffee and tea plantations are famous, most people visit for the sole purpose of Rwanda gorilla trekking. Rwanda is one of the best places in Africa to see these endangered primates in their natural habitat. Trekking in tropical rainforests to be face to face with these powerful creatures is the stuff that dreams are made of. Add to this the opportunity to track chimpanzees, as well as a host of other monkeys, and Rwanda is an intriguing travel destination.
A small country with a big heart, Rwanda is a rewarding destination, especially for those who choose to stay a little longer and get to know the easy charm of this East African country.
- Rwanda gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
- Discover 13 species of primate in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
- Enjoy a classic Big 5 safari at Akagera National Park.
- Gorilla naming ceremony in September: Kwita Izina.
- Visit breathtakingly scenic Lake Kivu.
- Look out for the Rwandan Intore Dancing, The finest displays of Rwanda’s dynamic traditional musical and dance styles.
- Engage in sustainable tourism and visit Rwanda’s famous tea and coffee plantations.
- Rwandan adventure activities include hiking, kayaking, caving, and mountain biking.
- Visiting Kigali’s Genocide Memorial is a must.
Rwanda Article Quick Links |
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Located in the northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park safeguards the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, home to mountain gorillas and an array of montane ecosystems, including evergreen and bamboo forests, expansive grasslands, marshes, and heathlands. Volcanoes National Park is a sanctuary for African mountain gorillas and the only place for Rwanda gorilla trekking. It is one of the best places in Africa to see these magnificent apes in the wild.
Volcanoes National Park was founded in 1925, making it one of Africa’s oldest national reserves. Approximately 160km² / 62 mi², Volcanoes National Park shares borders with both Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the DRC. In fact, Volcanoes National Park is home to five of the eight volcanoes, including the highest, Mt Karisimbi at 4507 m / 14790 ft. All of the volcanoes in Rwanda are extinct while active volcanoes can be found in neighbouring DRC. Because of the altitudinal range, Volcanoes National Park has a varied landscape that ranges from tropical and bamboo forests to afro-alpine shrublands, and grasslands, marshes, and thickets that stretch between volcanoes.
At the heart of Volcanoes is a thriving population of endangered mountain gorillas. This is where primatologist Dian Fossey studied gorillas, and it was her work that brought their plight to global attention, thus saving them from extinction. In 1981, at its population nadir, individual gorillas numbered only 254 across their Virunga habitat. Today, gorilla numbers have risen to over 1,000 individuals across the three parks, making this one of Africa’s most successful conservation achievements. Tourists can go Rwanda gorilla trekking to one of 12 habituated troops of gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, for an unparalleled once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visitors to Volcanoes National Park can also hike to the now-abandoned Karisoke Research Centre, the final resting place of Fossey and Digit.
Beyond its iconic gorilla residents, Volcanoes National Park is home to endangered golden monkeys – who can also be tracked - elusive forest elephants, African buffaloes, spotted hyenas, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, black-fronted duiker, and bushbucks. Birdwatchers will be rewarded with 178 recorded bird species including 17 endemic species like the Ruwenzori turaco, batis, and apalis, and the Dusky crimson wing.
Other attractions to include in your Volcanoes National Park visit are the Buhanga Eco-Park, a sacred forest steeped in Rwanda's captivating cultural traditions and folklore, and the Musanze Caves, formed 62 million years ago following the last estimated volcanic eruption.
Info Box: Rwanda’s Environmental Commitment |
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| Rwanda is a global leader in environmental responsibility in Africa. In 2008, Rwanda implemented a nationwide ban on non-biodegradable plastic bags. The ban encompassed the manufacturing, usage, import, and sale of plastic carrier bags. Travelers entering Rwanda encounter similar regulations as those heading to Tanzania, with restrictions on bringing plastic carrier bags into the country. Moreover, Rwanda introduced the community cleanup initiative called 'Umuganda' on the last Saturday of each month, contributing to its reputation for cleanliness, particularly in Kigali. In October 2019, Rwanda became the first African nation to enforce a complete prohibition on all single-use plastics. |
The warm and low-lying plains of Akagera National Park include savannah, woodlands, wetlands, and numerous lakes. Located in the northwest of Rwanda, along the border with Tanzania, the 1122 km² / 433 mi² Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only Big 5 safari destination.
Akagera National Park has been run by African Parks, since 2010, with the goal of elevating it into a premier African safari destination. While it cannot compete in scale with the likes of the Serengeti and Masai Mara, Akagera’s expansive landscape lends itself to optimal game viewing. Both lions and rhinos have been reintroduced, making Akagera a Big 5 safari destination accessible within Rwanda’s small borders. In addition to the lion, elephant, rhino, buffaloes, and leopards, visitors who visit Akagera can encounter a variety of wildlife including, numerous antelope, zebra, giraffe, baboons, monkeys, and an impressive 490 bird species.
Exploring Akagera National Park can be done on self-drive or guided Rwanda safari tours, and the National Park offers vehicle rentals and spaces for night drives. Opting for a guide is recommended. In addition to safari game drives, a boat trip on Lake Ihema with pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles, is a highlight. Guests can stay in the park at various lodges, bush camps, or campsites.
Bordering Burundi in the southwest of Rwanda is Nyungwe National Park, the single largest remaining tract of indigenous forest in Rwanda. In 2020, Nyungwe came under the management of African Parks whose mandate is to protect one of the oldest forests in Africa, a 1019 km² / 393 mi² blend of Afromontane forests, bamboo-covered slopes, grasslands, and wetlands.
Nyungwe National Park delivers 70% of Rwanda’s fresh water, and the forest ridge divides the Nile and Congo drainage systems, with a spring on Mt Bigugu's slopes marking the Nile's remotest source. Nyungwe is a regional biodiversity hotspot supporting over 1068 plant species, 322 bird species (30 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift), 75 mammal species, and 13 primate species, a quarter of African primates!
There are 15 trails to explore in one of Africa’s most pristine forests, and the most popular activity is primate tracking, where guests have the opportunity to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park is also home to leopards, mongooses, serval, over 140 orchid species, and more than 120 butterflies. Keep an eye out for the Albertine Rift's endemic L’Hoest’s monkey. Other noteworthy attractions include the breathtaking Isumo waterfall and the Canopy Walk suspension bridge. Tea plantations bordering the park are home to habituated Ruwenzori colobus monkeys and forest-edge birds.
While Nyungwe National Park has faced serious challenges from poaching, illegal mining, and agricultural encroachment, under new management, this Rwandan park has amazing potential to become a major tourist destination that works with local communities towards a sustainable future. Nyungwe’s captivating beauty serves as the backdrop to the park's most popular activity, chimpanzee tracking.
Info Box: Rwandan Tea |
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| Tea was introduced in Rwanda in 1952 and is now one of the country’s largest exports. The fertile volcanic soil and temperate climate make for perfect tea-growing conditions. Hugging the undulating hills at the western fringes of Nyungwe Forest National Park, the Gisakura Tea Estate is among the most famous, and beautiful of Rwanda’s tea plantations. Tours and day visits to plantations like Gisakura Tea Estate and Gisovu Tea Estate are well worth it. |
Gishwati Mukura National Park is Rwanda's fourth, and youngest national park. The two distinct forests – Gishwati and Mukura – span a total of 34 km² / 13 mi² and stretch along the ridge that separates the Congo and Nile water catchment areas. The park is part of the larger UNESCO Gishwati-Mukura Landscape Biosphere Reserve that stretches over nearly 800 km² / 308 mi².
Biologically diverse, the indigenous hardwood and bamboo forests are a vital habitat to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and Blue Monkeys. Activities launched in 2019 encompass guided nature hikes, chimpanzee and golden monkey tracking, birdwatching to spot the 232 recorded species including endemics and forest specialists, and visits to waterfalls. Community-focused ventures include farm stays, live cultural dances, handicraft creation, beekeeping, tea plantation tours, and interactions with traditional healers, who utilize natural plants to complement modern medicine and synthesized drugs.
Gishwati Mukuru National Park opened its doors to the public in December 2020, making it a new and exciting Rwandan park to discover.
Established in 1907 as an administrative outpost, Kigali evolved into the country's capital upon gaining independence in 1962. Strategically located in the heart of Rwanda, Kigali sprawls across hills and valleys, seamlessly connected by well-maintained roads to the nation's other regions. The capital, home to just over a million inhabitants, strikes a balance between a tranquil atmosphere and a progressive spirit.
First-time visitors are often struck by the cleanliness of Kigali’s streets and squares, a source of pride across all communities in the country. Umuganda, which translates as “coming together in common purpose.” is an age-old Rwandan tradition that has been repurposed in the modern epoch to help foster community through care for the environment.
Rapid development is evident, with new shopping centers, office complexes, and a state-of-the-art convention center designed in the style of the King’s Palace, illuminating the hilltops at night. The central business district is on Nyarugenge Hill, while the government and administrative quarter lie east on Kacyiru Hill. For visitors to Kigali, there is a blossoming art scene, numerous dining and drinking options, and many panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The Kigali Cultural Village provides a dedicated platform for local artisans and food vendors to showcase their creations. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is recommended for all visitors to Rwanda to fully understand the depths from which Rwanda has risen.
Info Box: Kigali Genocide Memorial |
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| The conflict between Tutsis and Hutus resulted in the horrific genocide of 1994. Almost 3 decades later, Rwanda has united behind an ethos of unity as a nation of Rwandans. To learn more about this tragic episode in Rwandan history, a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a must. This education center offers the most comprehensive opportunity to understand the root causes, unfolding events, and the devastating aftermath of the Rwanda Genocide. The stages and events of the genocide are complemented by photographs, videos, and personal narratives of the victims. Given the potential emotional impact on visitors, it's recommended to take a moment to mentally prepare for the tour. Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful experience that is an important part of any trip to Rwanda. |
Rubavu is a waterfront retreat, set on the shores of Lake Kivu. Ideally located an hour from Volcanoes National Park on route to Nyungwe National Park, Rubavu makes an ideal stopover. The red sand beaches and warm tropical water give the town a tropical ambiance. Relax on the beach or explore Lake Kivu by kayak. The town is also the starting point for the Congo Nile Trail, a 227km journey south to Rusizi, that can be completed on foot or mountain bike and is perfect for getting a sense of Rwanda and Rwanda’s people. Close to Rubavu, you will find scenic coffee and tea plantations, as well as the Gishwati-Mukura National Park, home to diverse bird species and primates.
Karongi is another beach getaway for Rwandan families in this landlocked country. Its allure is to be found in breathtaking views, country tranquility, and convenient accessibility from Kigali. Visitors to Karongi can rent kayaks, take tours to nearby Napoleon's Island to see fruit bats, or dine at restaurants on Amahoro Island. For a truly Rwandan experience, join locals on a nighttime fishing expedition. To the northwest, Gishwati-Mukura Forest is ideal for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 230 recorded species, including 17 endemic to the Albertine Rift. With an average altitude of 2,600m, Mukura is characterized by tropical forest in mountainous terrain.
Info Box: Rwandan Coffee |
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| The route between Gisenyi and Karongi, near the village of Kayove has a number of scenic coffee farms and washing stations, particularly on Nyamirundi Island. Since missionaries introduced this desirable bean to Rwanda in 1904, coffee has flourished into one of the country's major cash crops. Primarily high-quality Arabica Bourbon, about 95% of Rwanda's coffee beans feature a smooth, creamy body with notes of lemon, orange blossom, and caramel in the aftertaste. The country's coffee production is rooted in a network of approximately 450,000 small-scale growers spread across Rwanda, with Gisenyi near Lake Kivu serving as a central location for coffee-related visits. Visitors wanting to explore the coffee growing and production process can arrange tours through places like Kinunu Washing Station, Ingoboka Collective, and KZ Noir. |
The best time to visit Rwanda is from June to September, during the long Dry season when primate tracking with gorillas and chimpanzees is at its best. Even at this time, rain is common but in the dry season forest walks are more manageable. The short Dry season from mid-December to February is also good. See The Best Time for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tours for more details.
The second best time to visit Rwanda is during the two rainy seasons, from mid-February to June, and mid-September to December. At this time, chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park is at its best as the chimpanzee troops are easier to locate.
Because of its proximity to the equator and stable day and nighttime temperatures, Rwanda is regarded as an all-year-round destination. A note to the wise, be prepared for rain.
A combination of altitude and proximity to the equator means that Rwanda has a tropical highland climate that remains pleasantly warm throughout the year. The majority of the country lies on a plateau at an elevation of about 1500 m / 5000 ft above sea level. Altitude decreases to under a thousand meters / 3300 feet only in the westernmost region along the Rusizi River, marking the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where temperatures can occasionally reach up to 35 °C / 95 °F.
Precipitation ranges from 1,000 to 1400 mm / 40 to 55 inches annually depending on the area. There's a dry period spanning from June to August, with July being the driest month. The rainy season runs from September to May. This rainy season can be further divided into two parts: March to May and September to November. While the reduction in rainfall from December to February is relatively modest, it becomes more distinct in the north, where it falls below 100 mm / 4 inches per month. Notably, the period from March to May is the more intense rainy season, with April and May often seeing over 150 mm / 6 inches of precipitation per month.
Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after experiences in Africa, and tourism is responsible for the sustainability of gorilla and chimpanzee conservation. As a result, gorilla trekking in Africa comes at a premium. You can read more about gorilla trekking in Rwanda vs. Uganda here. Rwanda gorilla trekking permits cost US$ 1500, which means that Rwanda safari costs are high at between US$ 600 to US$ 1000 per person per day. There are seasonal fluctuations in price, and for up-to-date information, you can talk to one of African Budget Safaris' experienced travel consultants.
Below are costs for Rwanda safari tours that vary in length from 3 to 6 days.
You can browse more Rwanda safari tours here.
Located just a short drive away from Kigali, Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport serves as Rwanda's main entry point. Direct flights to Rwanda can be taken from Dubai, Doha, Johannesburg, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Brussels, as well as Lusaka, Entebbe, Harare, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi. Airlines that service Kigali International Airport include Qatar Airways, KLM, and Turkish Airlines, as well as Kenya, Ethiopian, and Brussels Airlines.
Due to Rwanda's compact size, the maximum driving distance between major attractions is approximately four to five hours. Generally speaking, the condition of major roads is good, and they can be traveled safely. Secondary roads are often dirt tracks that require a 4x4 and can become impassable during the wet seasons.
Transfers within Rwanda usually use 4x4 vehicles, but it is also possible to arrange a helicopter transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
For safe public transportation, opt for authorized Kigali city buses and licensed orange-striped taxis. Confirm the fare before you travel, and while fun, motorcycle taxis and minibusses can be dangerous. It is better not to drive after dark because of poorly lit roads, pedestrians, and wayward livestock.
Reputable car services can be hired, and private transport arrangements can often be made through travel agencies and local hotels.
Rwanda is a small country and the travel distances are not great. It is possible to comfortably do both Rwanda gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in a few days. The following are the distances and rough travel times between the capital city, Kigali, and the 4 Rwandan national parks.
When on safari in Rwanda it is good to observe all the regular rules, pack lightweight outdoor clothing, think in layers to account for fluctuating temperatures, and wear a neutral pallet that avoids bright colors, white clothing, and anything resembling a military uniform. In addition to these basic rules, it often rains in Rwanda and you should be prepared for wet weather. Almost everyone who visits Rwanda will go gorilla trekking, and to this end, here are some specific gorilla trekking guidelines.
When embarking on a Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure, it's crucial to wear appropriate clothing for both comfort and protection. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are essential to shield yourself from potential hazards like branches, thorns, and nettles that might be encountered along the trails. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots provide stability on often slippery paths, particularly during rainfall, while keeping your feet dry. Equally important are sturdy gloves, like gardening gloves, which help protect your hands against nettles and scratches.
In a region where weather can change unexpectedly, a rain jacket or poncho will help keep you dry and comfortable during sudden downpours. Traveling wet is no fun, so quick-drying outdoor clothing is a must, and a spare set of dry clothes that you can easily change into an added bonus. A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face from both sun and rain and offers better all-around protection than a baseball cap. Insect repellent should be used liberally to keep the bugs at bay. Additionally, carrying a warm sweater or cardigan is advised, as the mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Avoid wearing strong fragrances as gorillas and chimpanzees have an acute sense of smell and may retreat from unfamiliar scents. Considering the wet environment, safari socks made from cotton or wool provide extra comfort and protection for your feet.
Rwanda can be visited all year round. The dry months from June to September are best for Rwanda gorilla trekking, while the rainy period from mid-February to early June is thought to be best for Chimpanzee tracking.
From December to February, Rwanda experiences drier weather during the short dry season, attracting many visitors during this period. While it offers ideal conditions for activities like gorilla trekking and outdoor exploration, it's essential to secure bookings early due to elevated prices in this sought-after season. The warm and sunny climate enhances the experience of gorilla trekking and engaging in various outdoor adventures throughout the country. By the middle of February, the rains are threatening and the weather can be unpredictable. From mid-February to early June is the best time to see chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest as they are easier to locate at these times.
This is the low season in Rwanda, characterized by heavy rain, these are the long rain months. Trails are still doable but are slippery and can be tricky to navigate. If you travel at this time, be well prepared for wet weather. The scenery at this time is lush and green and considered the most beautiful. The rains arrive in March and continue until mid-May, but this is the prime time to spot chimpanzees as the fruit ripens and brings the chimps down to the lower reaches of the forest canopy. Gorilla trekking can still be undertaken, and there are often discounts on the permits. The rains continue throughout April, but chimpanzee sightings are still at their best and it's a good time for Rwanda gorilla trekking. The rains begin to ease in mid-May, and the parks are lush and verdant, with newborn animals making their first forays through the national parks.
May to October is the long dry season in Rwanda, making this a popular time for both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. The weather is considered the best at this time as there is little rain, which makes gorilla trekking more comfortable. Traveling during the peak tourist months means you should book your Rwanda gorilla trekking permits well in advance in order to avoid disappointment.
As a bonus, September brings Kwita Izina, the Baby Gorilla Naming Ceremony, an annual event that is modeled off a centuries-old Rwandan tradition of naming one's children amongst friends. The celebration is an opportunity to thank communities, laud conservation achievements, and celebrate these amazing primates.
October and November tend to bring quick bursts of rain that clear to reveal blue skies. It's an excellent time for photographers and the ideal period to admire Rwanda's beautiful mountain scenery.
Rwanda is a landlocked country in Central-East Africa. Covering an area of 26 338 km² /, 10 169 mi², Rwanda has a diverse landscape that includes open plains, mountains, and rolling hills. In the west, the Albertine Rift Mountains - an extension of the Great Rift Valley - including the volcanic chain of the Virunga Mountains, dominate, with the highest peak being Mount Karisimbi at 4507 m / 14786ft. The town of Gisenyi, nestled at the northern tip of Lake Kivu, provides breathtaking panoramas of these encircling volcanoes. From these mountains, rolling hills transition to savanna, plains, and swamps in the central region. While the low mountains and undulating hills continue towards the east and southeast, their elevation gradually diminishes.
On the border with Tanzania, these landscapes transform into a mosaic of low hills, papyrus swamps, and shallow lakes, interspersed with patches of semiarid savanna. Rwanda’s lowest point is 950 m above sea level. Rwanda has numerous lakes, Lake Kivu being the largest including Burera, Cohana, and others. The Nyabarongo River rises in the southwest and merges with the Ruvubu in the southeast, forming the Kagera River that enters Lake Victoria after crossing into Tanzania. 80% of the freshwater drainage from Rwanda, enters the Nile River via Lake Victoria, while 20% flows into the Congo via the Rusizi River. Across the country's lush valleys, an abundance of crops such as beans, sorghum, corn, manioc, Irish potatoes, rice, sweet potatoes, soybeans, bananas, coffee, and tea flourishes.
Human settlement in Rwanda dates back to around 10,000 BCE. Over successive waves of migrations, smaller kingdoms emerged in the 1100s. By the 1500s, a more centralized and larger entity known as the Kingdom of Rwanda took shape. Governed by the Mwami, this kingdom reached its zenith of territorial expansion during the late 1800s.
In 1899, the German Empire colonized Rwanda, formally integrating it into German East Africa and exercising control through King Musinga's proxy government. However, this German colonial rule was brief. Following the German Empire's defeat in World War I, Rwanda became a part of the Belgian colonial empire under a mandate from the League of Nations, later succeeded by the United Nations. The Belgian colonial presence left a profound and enduring impact on Rwanda. Notably, the most significant and lasting impact was the colonial authorities' deliberate racialization of distinctions among Hutu, Twa, and Tutsi communities.
In 1962, Rwanda achieved independence from Belgium, yet the post-colonial era was tainted by ethnically driven conflicts. These tensions reached their peak with the 1994 Rwandan genocide, claiming the lives of over 800,000 Tutsi individuals, as well as Hutus who opposed the violence or abstained from participating in it. Following the civil war, Rwanda experienced remarkable economic growth, with its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding by as much as 8% in 2005.
Rwanda, primarily agrarian, relies on agriculture for around 63% of export earnings, supplemented by mineral and agro-processing sectors. Despite high population density, urban concentration is limited, with 12 million people dispersed across an area smaller than Maryland. Foreign exchange streams from tourism, minerals, coffee, and tea. While blessed with fertile land, food production struggles to match demand, necessitating imports. Energy scarcity, regional instability, and insufficient transportation connections hinder private sector expansion.
All visitors to Rwanda are required to possess a passport that remains valid for a minimum of six months.
As of 2018, all countries are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival in Rwanda.
Citizens of member countries of the African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie can get free visas upon arrival in Rwanda for a visit of 30 days.
Citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt have an option of applying online or at the Rwanda Diplomatic Mission of the country of residence before departure. Those applying online have the option to pay online or upon arrival. There is no single affiliated agent who is authorized to apply for a visa on your behalf.
The visa fees must not exceed 50 USD for a single entry visa or 70 USD for multiple entry.
Rwanda is widely believed to be one of the best places for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking because of its reputation for being stable, safe, and welcoming to tourists. This is especially true when trips are centered around an organized safari that will take care of your travel and safety needs. At times, some governments do issue travel warnings against visiting more remote border regions of Rwanda, but it's important to note that well-known tourist hotspots like Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe National Park, and Kigali are regarded as safe. For more details see Is Rwanda Safe to Visit?
For further details, we recommend consulting the relevant travel advisory and talking to a safari consultant who will have the latest information.
Rwanda is a high-risk malaria country. Anti-malarial prophylactics are readily available and effective against the disease, and it is recommended that you travel with a good mosquito repellent for an extra barrier against the disease. Visiting Rwanda during the wet seasons from October to May, presents the highest malaria risk, though mosquitos are less of an issue in high-altitude areas like Volcanoes National Park.
Rwanda is a tropical destination and does require some preparation. In general, it is recommended that you get vaccines for hepatitis A & B, cholera, typhoid, polio, tetanus, rabies, meningitis, and yellow fever. Before you travel, visit your local travel clinic and find out well in advance what vaccinations are required. This is a changing landscape and does require forward planning.
Tap water in Rwanda is unsafe for drinking. However, many accommodations provide free water dispensers. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it as needed while exploring. Alternatively, affordable bottled water is widely available at shops and supermarkets across the country.
Don't forget to pack your preferred insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
The African sun can be severe. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended and it’s always a good idea to carry a bottle of water and stay well hydrated.
The currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). At the time of publishing, US$ 1 = RWF 1,185. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted and it is advisable to carry a supply of either currency. Kigali is best for banking as opportunities are limited beyond the city.
Bureaux de change establishments typically provide favorable exchange rates. While credit cards, particularly MasterCard, are acknowledged in certain upscale Kigali hotels and restaurants, their acceptance is limited in many other locations.
In restaurants that cater to tourists, a tip of 10% of the total bill is the starting point. Hotel porters usually expect around US$ 1 per bag.
While tipping is not obligatory for Rwanda gorilla trekking, it's customary, and warmly appreciated – amounts vary depending on group size and assistance level needed. Your porter (if hired) typically receives the highest tip, followed by guides, trackers, and security personnel.
It is worth remembering that some guides, porters, and trackers were once poachers and now rely on tourists for their livelihood, making your generosity vital for gorilla and chimpanzee conservation efforts. Engaging a porter can be beneficial during the trek, aiding you over challenging sections and carrying your day pack if needed; rewarding your porter for exceptional service is recommended.
When tipping, try to use Rwandan Francs, as it may be difficult for locals to change small amounts of foreign currency.
When doing activities through a game lodge, you will often find tipping guidelines in rooms. If not, have a friendly chat with the manager who will offer some balanced advice.
Tipping is always optional, but it's a way to show appreciation for good service.
Rwanda's culture is predominantly Christian (Catholic) and conservative. Modesty in dress is particularly important for women, where revealing clothing is likely to attract unwanted attention. Greetings are important to Rwandans. Younger people must greet elders first, and men greet women first. Handshakes often involve placing the left hand under the right forearm in a respectful gesture. Common greetings include "Muraho," "Mwaramutse," and "Mwiriwe," with subsequent inquiries about well-being. Public contact between opposite sexes is discouraged. Pass items to elders with both hands; pointing with fingers is impolite, but you can instead signal using the head for direction.
Rwandans are polite and value privacy. They frown upon loud confrontations or emotional outbursts so it is important to stay calm and friendly when negotiating, as this will get better results in any situation. Rwanda has actively worked at overcoming the horror and subsequent stigma attached to the 1994 genocide. Be sensitive in this regard and tread lightly as everyone you meet will have lost someone. Avoiding inquiries about ethnic origins and political affiliations as these tend to promote discomfort.
Rwandans are famously friendly and good-natured people. Though it shouldn’t be a problem, ask for permission before you take photographs of people and children. This courtesy should be extended to all people.
While Rwanda is considered to be very safe, visiting big cities or major town centers will come with the risk of pickpockets and petty thieves. By taking a few precautions and keeping your street smarts about you it is easy to stay safe in Rwanda. Tourists on organized safari tours should not have any issues.
Always be conscious of your belongings and don't leave your baggage unattended either at the airport, train station, hotel lobby or on the street. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and never flash your cash. Be particularly vigilant when visiting noisy and busy places like markets.
Always get travel insurance, and stay hydrated.
For a small country, the 4th smallest on the African continent, Rwanda has some exciting destinations and a wide variety of attractions for visitors of all kinds. Take a look at a few of our Rwanda safari tours to the country's top travel destinations:
Wherever your dream African safari destination is, talk to one of our expert travel consultants to start planning your Rwanda safari today.
Use the Google map to explore Rwanda.
Trek into the ancient mountain rainforests of Rwanda to come face to face with African mountain gorillas, and other primates - golden monkeys and chimpanzees. The incredible combination of Volcanoes and Nyungwe is perfect for encountering a diversity of endangered, exotic and endemic animals, birds, plants and more.
Trip Style Rwanda Private Safaris
Trek endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda, after game viewing in Akagera National Park and taking a boat ride on Lake Ihema, then visit Ibyiwacu cultural village and Lake Kivu.
Trip Style Rwanda Private Safaris
Spend time with endangered African mountain gorillas in the rainforests of Volcanoes National Park on this unforgettable Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari, and also go golden monkey tracking!
Trip Style Rwanda Private Safaris
Go African mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, one of the best places in the world for this unforgettable wildlife encounter. Also track endemic golden monkeys in Volcanoes and do a city tour of Kigali, the modern capital of Rwanda.
Trip Style Rwanda Private Safaris