Rwanda Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Rwanda — the Land of a Thousand Hills — is one of Africa's most remarkable destinations. Tiny in size but enormous in character, it packs mountain gorillas, misty volcanoes, pristine national parks, and one of Africa's most vibrant capitals into a country smaller than Belgium. Here is everything you need to know before you visit.

Getting to Rwanda

Kigali International Airport (KGL) is well connected with direct flights from London (RwandAir), Brussels (RwandAir/Brussels Airlines), Dubai (RwandAir/Emirates), Nairobi, Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, and many other African cities. Flight time from London is approximately 8.5 hours.

Visa Information

Citizens of most countries receive a free 30-day visa on arrival at Kigali airport — no advance application needed. The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) is excellent value, covering Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya in one visa. Apply online at migration.gov.rw before travel for faster processing.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

Rwanda has two dry seasons which are the best times for gorilla trekking:

• June – September — Main dry season. Best weather, clearest trails, most popular. Book 6+ months in advance.
• December – February — Short dry season. Also excellent, less crowded than June–September.
• March – May — Long rains. Trails muddy but lush and green. Fewer tourists, sometimes lower lodge rates.
• October – November — Short rains. Still possible but wetter conditions.

Gorilla trekking runs year-round regardless of season — gorillas don't take time off!

Health & Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccination is required to enter Rwanda — carry your yellow card. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, particularly if visiting Akagera National Park. Kigali city itself is low malaria risk.

Currency & Money

Rwanda's currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). The US Dollar is widely accepted in tourist areas, lodges, and for gorilla permits. ATMs are available throughout Kigali and in Musanze (the gateway town to Volcanoes National Park). Credit cards accepted at most hotels and lodges.

Getting Around Rwanda

Rwanda is compact and easy to navigate. The drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park (Musanze) takes approximately 2–2.5 hours on a good tarmac road. We arrange all transfers for our guests — airport pickup, lodge transfers, and park transport. Motorcycle taxis (motos) and ride-hailing apps are popular in Kigali.

Safety

Rwanda consistently ranks as one of Africa's safest countries. Kigali is frequently voted Africa's cleanest and safest city. Petty crime is rare. The country is politically stable with a strong tourism infrastructure. Solo travellers, women travellers, and families all visit Rwanda comfortably.

Culture & Customs

Rwandans are warm, welcoming, and proud of their country's remarkable transformation. A few customs to be aware of: plastic bags are banned in Rwanda (do not bring them), the last Saturday of every month is Umuganda (community work day) when businesses close in the morning, and modest dress is appreciated outside of Kigali. Always ask permission before photographing people.

Language

Kinyarwanda is the national language. French and English are both official languages. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken. Learning a few words of Kinyarwanda — "Muraho" (hello) and "Murakoze" (thank you) — will delight locals.