Overview of Rwanda
Popularly known as the 'Land of a Thousand Hills' (Pays de Mille Collines), Rwanda is a small, lush central African country of misty hills dotted with tea plantations, rugged peaks and towering volcanoes. Despite being landlocked, Rwanda has several 'beaches' along Lake Kivu to the west, one of Africa's largest bodies of water.
Sadly, this beautiful country is best known for the horrific genocide of 1994, when nearly one million Rwandans were slaughtered in the space of about three months. This massacre was the result of long-standing ethnic tension between the minority Tutsis and the Hutus.
Fortunately, Rwanda has recovered wonderfully from its tragic past, and is now a peaceful, unspoilt holiday destination that is rich in culture and wildlife, boasting fine food and some of the friendliest people in Africa. The world is finally catching on to the allure of this African gem and tourism is on the rise.
The rapidly growing city of Kigali, situated at Rwanda's geographical heart, is not only the capital but also the country's most important business centre and the main point of entry. While it is not a tourist hot spot, it contains some first-rate sites and is worth a quick exploration for travellers arriving from overseas.
However, the country's real appeal lies outside the city, in the magnificent national parks. The most popular activity for tourists in Rwanda is gorilla trekking. Meeting these gentle giants in their natural habitat is widely acknowledged as one of the most profound and thrilling wildlife experiences in the world.
A picturesque country with an incredible people and interesting history, Rwanda will captivate its visitors and spark a passion for African travel.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Kinyarwanda, French, Swahili and English are the official languages. French is widely spoken, but English is limited to a few people in the tourist centres.
- Passport/Visa:
-
Passport and/or passport replacing documents must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival in Rwanda for all nationalities. It is always highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. E-visas can be obtained before departure at www.migration.gov.rw. Passengers must have a printed e-visa confirmation. A valid "East African Tourist Visa" issued by Kenya or Uganda is accepted, if having first entered the country that issued the visa. The visa is valid for 90 days and multiple entries/re-entries. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
-
The official currency is the Rwanda Franc (RWF), which is divided into 100 centimes. Banks throughout Rwanda can exchange US Dollars or Euros, and middle to top-tier tourist hotels and restaurants are increasingly accepting credit cards.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current is 230-240 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are the most commonly used.
Travel to Rwanda
Overview
Rwanda is certainly a nature lover's paradise, and the focus of its tourism is mostly eco-centered. It is an incredible country with a rich history, and a wildlife heritage unlike any other.
The world's largest population of mountain gorillas inhabits Rwanda's spectacular Volcanoes National Park, and these burly primates are by far the country's most popular tourist attraction. Accordingly, gorilla tracking is very much on every park visitor's to-do list. It doesn't come cheap though, and the park is careful to regulate visitors to avoid overtourism.
Nyungwe Forest National Park's residents include a large number of smaller primates, as well as more than 275 bird species, while Akagera National Park is big game country, where herds of elephants and buffalo, lions, hippos and plains game roam the archetypal African savannahs, swamps and lakes.
The waters of Lake Kivu are enclosed by green terraced hills that give way to beaches, inlets and the resort towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu, which also make for popular tourist sites.
For those looking to delve into Rwanda's sobering history, a trip to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre will be illuminating, and leave visitors in awe of a country that has come far in its efforts to become the peaceful and beautiful destination it is today.
Climate in Rwanda
Rwanda experiences a pleasant, tropical highland climate with temperatures that vary depending on altitude, but vary little from month to month in the same location. There are two wet seasons and two dry seasons; a long and a short one. The wettest time of year is between March and May, while the driest months are July to September. There is also rain between October and November. Temperatures rarely go above 86°F (30°C) during the day or drop below 59°F (15°C), except on the upper slopes of the Virunga Mountains where frosty conditions are possible.
Health Notes when travelling to Rwanda
There is a year-round risk of malaria throughout Rwanda and travellers are advised to take a course of prophylactics. A yellow fever certificate is required by all visitors over the age of one, and inoculation is also recommended for travellers who will be staying for a long time, or will be heavily exposed to mosquitoes. A hepatitis A vaccination is also recommended, as well as a polio booster for those who have not had one as an adult. Bottled drinking water is available in all towns. Medical facilities are limited and medical supplies may be unavailable, although hospitals are located in all major towns. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Rwanda
Crime levels are relatively low in Rwanda, although tourists should be alert to bag snatching and incidents of petty theft. Travel to the border areas with Burundi and the DRC is not advised. Trips to see the gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park should only be undertaken as part of a guided trek. Rwanda is considered a low threat for terrorism, though there are reports of random grenade attacks and travellers should be vigilant at bus stops and other public areas. The roads in major towns are good, however travel after dark is not advisable; landslides are common during the rainy season (late spring to early autumn).
Customs in Rwanda
Photography of government buildings is prohibited in Rwanda. Plastic bags have been banned for environmental reasons and will be confiscated on arrival at the airport. It is considered impolite to ask someone about their ethnic origin.
Duty Free in Rwanda
Passengers older than 18 years may bring 250g of tobacco products, one litre of spirits, two litres of wine, and 500ml of perfume into the country without incurring import duties.
Doing Business in Rwanda
A handshake is the normal form of greeting. A knowledge of French is useful as English is not widely spoken; interpreters may be required. Culturally, a direct 'no' to a proposal is rare, and negotiations are often lengthy. Lightweight suits are suitable attire for meetings, which need to be arranged in advance.
Communication in Rwanda
The international dialling code for Rwanda is +250. Prepaid local SIM cards can be purchased as a cheaper alternative to using international roaming. Free wifi is available at most upscale hotels and an increasing number of cafes, restaurants and budget hotels.
Tipping in Rwanda
Although services charges are usually added to the bill, tipping has become common in the country's cities. A five to 10 percent tip for decent restaurant service is standard, and guides generally receive $10 per day.
Passport/Visa Note
Passport and/or passport replacing documents must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival in Rwanda for all nationalities. It is always highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. E-visas can be obtained before departure at www.migration.gov.rw. Passengers must have a printed e-visa confirmation. A valid "East African Tourist Visa" issued by Kenya or Uganda is accepted, if having first entered the country that issued the visa. The visa is valid for 90 days and multiple entries/re-entries. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
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US nationals require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. A visa is required and can be aquired upon arrival for a stay of up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa within 15 days of arrival.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadians require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. A visa on arrival can be obtained for stays of up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
UK nationals require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. A visa can be aquired on arrival for up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa within 15 days of arrival.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australians require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date, visas can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. A visa can be obtained on arrival for a maximum of 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. Visas can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South Africans require a passport valid for six months beyond arrival date. Visas can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days for a fee. Visitors can apply to extend their visa within 15 days of arrival.
Tourist Offices
Rwanda Development Board, Kigali: +250 727 775 170 or http://www.visitrwanda.com/
Rwanda Embassies
- In the United States:
-
Rwanda Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 232 2882.
- In Canada:
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Rwanda High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: (613) 569 5420.
- In the United Kingdom:
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Rwandan High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7224 9832.
- In Australia:
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Rwandan Honorary Consulate General, Melbourne, Australia: +61 (0) 401 099 115.
- In South Africa:
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Rwandan High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 6536.
Foreign Embassies in Rwanda
- American Embassy
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United States Embassy, Kigali: +250 596 400.
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian High Commission, Kigali, Rwanda: +250 252 573 210.
- British Embassy
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British High Commission, Kigali: +250 252 556 000.
- Australian Embassy
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Australian High Commission, Nairobi, Kenya (also responsible for Rwanda): +254 (0)20 427 7100.
- Irish Embassy
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Irish Embassy, Kampala, Uganda (also responsible for Rwanda): +256 (0)41 7713 000.
- South African Embassy
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South African High Commission, Kigali: +250 252 551 300.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Rwanda
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
| Yellow Fever | Health recommendation: CDC does not recommend yellow fever vaccine for most travelers to Rwanda. However, you might consider this vaccine if you are staying a long time or will be heavily exposed to mosquitoes.
Country entry requirement: The government of Rwanda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever or a country with an active yellow fever outbreak. Further details available at http://moh.gov.rw/index.php?id=34&tx_ttnews%5btt_news%5d=633&cHash=31c90fd13b953240c27d812275643392.
See more information on yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Rwanda. |  |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Rwanda, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
| Malaria | You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Rwanda. |  |
| Typhoid | You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Rwanda. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater. | |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Rwanda, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Rwanda
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Rwanda, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Rwanda.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Rwanda. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Rwanda, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Rwanda
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Take antimalarial meds
- Eat and drink safely
- Prevent bug bites
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
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Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Rwanda, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Hide Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Rwanda. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Note: Zika is a risk in Rwanda. For more information, see Zika Travel Information.
Hide If your travel plans in Rwanda include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Rwanda. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Rwanda’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in Rwanda. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Rwanda may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Rwanda, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Rwanda for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
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Hide Travel Health Notices
There are no notices currently in effect for Rwanda.
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the Rwanda Franc (RWF), which is divided into 100 centimes. Banks throughout Rwanda can exchange US Dollars or Euros, and middle to top-tier tourist hotels and restaurants are increasingly accepting credit cards.
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Kigali International Airport
http://www.aeroport-kigali.com/en
Location: Kigali The airport is situated about three miles (5km) from central Kigali.
Time: GMT +2.
Contacts:
Tel: +250 785 83 843
Transfer between terminals:
The terminals are small and within easy walking distance of one another.
Getting to the city:
There is no public transport to Kigali from the airport, but taxis are available.
Car rental:
Car rentals are avaliable from the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available from the airport.
Facilities:
Facilities include currency exchange facilities, cafeterias, a business class lounge, duty-free shopping, a travel agency and a tourist help desk. Facilities for the disabled are available.
Parking:
Parking is available at the airport.
Overview of the Attractions in Rwanda
Rwanda is certainly a nature lover's paradise, and the focus of its tourism is mostly eco-centered. It is an incredible country with a rich history, and a wildlife heritage unlike any other.
The world's largest population of mountain gorillas inhabits Rwanda's spectacular Volcanoes National Park, and these burly primates are by far the country's most popular tourist attraction. Accordingly, gorilla tracking is very much on every park visitor's to-do list. It doesn't come cheap though, and the park is careful to regulate visitors to avoid overtourism.
Nyungwe Forest National Park's residents include a large number of smaller primates, as well as more than 275 bird species, while Akagera National Park is big game country, where herds of elephants and buffalo, lions, hippos and plains game roam the archetypal African savannahs, swamps and lakes.
The waters of Lake Kivu are enclosed by green terraced hills that give way to beaches, inlets and the resort towns of Gisenyi, Kibuye and Cyangugu, which also make for popular tourist sites.
For those looking to delve into Rwanda's sobering history, a trip to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre will be illuminating, and leave visitors in awe of a country that has come far in its efforts to become the peaceful and beautiful destination it is today.
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is renowned as one of the continent's seven Great Lakes. Surrounded by verdant hills and spread over 1,040 square miles (2,700 sq km) on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the lake's shimmering emerald-green surface is a jewel in the centre of Africa. The towns of Cyangugu, Kibuye and Rubavu (formerly known as Gisenyi) lie on its shores and are becoming increasingly popular with tourists, given the ample opportunities they offer for water sports, island excursions, bird watching, and hiking through mint-scented clusters of eucalyptus trees. Travellers will also have no trouble finding bars to enjoy lakeside sundowners.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park lies on the border with Tanzania and encompasses savannah, mountain and swamp ecoregions across its 463 square miles (1,200 sq km) of territory. Named after the Akagera River that flows through it, the park is made up of forests, swamps, volcanic mountains, and vast savannah plains. The plains are the most popular for safaris, with an abundance of big game including lions, leopard, elephants, zebra, buffalo, giraffe and a huge variety of antelope. Camping alongside the lakes is a good way to spot birds such as fish eagles, papyrus gonolek and the elusive shoebill stork.
Website: http://www.africanparks.org/the-parks/akagera
Dian Fossey’s Grave
American zoologist Dian Fossey became famous for her dedication to studying and protecting endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Her 18-year study inspired the 1988 film Gorillas in the Mist, and promoted primate conservation worldwide. She was murdered in 1985, and buried at Karisoke, a gravesite she had constructed for gorillas. The Karisoke Research Camp that was her base sits between two volcanoes, Mt Visoke and Mt Karisimbi and stands at an altitude of 3,000m (9,000ft). The journey to her grave involves a five-hour trek and, though the cabins and buildings are gone, visitors may glimpse buffalo, elephants and even gorillas.
Butare
Once Rwanda's largest city, Butare (also known as Huye) is considered the intellectual capital of the country, whereas Kigali is considered the political hub. It is home to several important Rwandan landmarks, including the Christian Cathedral and the national University of Rwanda. The two most popular attractions in Butare, however, are the Ethnographic Museum of Rwanda, which chronicles the cultural history of the region through displays of photos and traditional artefacts; and Nyanza, the traditional seat of Rwanda's feudal monarchy and site of the restored 19th-century Royal Palace. Most of the palace's furniture and gifts from foreign dignitaries were stolen during the genocide, but it is still worth visiting.
Website: http://www.museum.gov.rw
Tea Plantations
Tea is a major product of Rwanda's economy, with thousands of tons exported each year, thanks to the country's temperate climate and rich volcanic soil. The government is slowly privatising plantations into cooperatives and 'Tea Societies', thereby empowering local farmers. Many visitors to Rwanda will enjoy exploring the plantations with their dramatically-sloped fields and panoramic vistas. Locally-produced varieties of tea can be sampled and taken back as souvenirs. Plantations near Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest are especially popular as package tour excursions. Visitors relish the experience of sipping tea while experts guide them through the different flavour profiles.
Karisimbi Volcano
Mount Karisimbi sticks out above the other seven major mountains of the Virunga range that divide Rwanda from the Democratic Republic of Congo. With a name meaning 'white shell' in Kinyarwanda for the snow that caps Karisimbi during the dry season, the inactive volcano provides phenomenal hiking and overnight trekking opportunities for those in search of gorillas. The climb can be a demanding but rewarding experience, as it traverses a majestic landscape of steep slopes, dense forest and stunning volcanic features.Visitors can trek to the former site of Dian Fossey's research station, only a few hours away from the mountain.
Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre
Kigali
Opened on the tenth anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide of 1994, the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a sobering museum dedicated to the nearly one million people who lost their lives in the conflict. More than 250,000 people are buried at the centre, which has become an educational site with museums and exhibits dedicated to preventing genocides around the world. The genocide that saw 800,000 men, women and children killed receives a meaningful and tasteful tribute with three permanent exhibitions, including the Education Centre, Memorial Gardens, and National Documentation Centre of the Genocide.
Website: http://www.kgm.rw
Volcanoes National Park
Often considered the flagship nature reserve in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park (known locally as Parc National des Volcans) is located in northwestern Rwanda, not far from Kigali. A haven for elusive and fascinating primates, the park encompasses the Virunga Mountains and is the best place in Rwanda to see mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and other animals. Popular trips include climbing the Karisimbi and Bisoke volcanoes, touring the lakes and caves of the park, and visiting the tomb of famous gorilla researcher Dian Fossey. The market town of Musanze is located at the base of the Virungas, and makes a good base from which to explore the park.
Website: http://www.volcanoesnationalparkrwanda.com/
Nyungwe National Park
Situated among tea plantations, the Nyungwe National Park is a high-altitude rainforest reserve in the Rwandan section of the Albertine Rift. Known for its extreme biodiversity, Nyungwe is home to thousands of species, including primates such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, owl-faced monkeys and olive baboons. Wildlife enthusiasts should note that Nyungwe's trekking trails offer different experiences. By way of a rough guide, bird-watchers should choose the Waterfall Trail, monkey trekkers will appreciate the Gisakura Tea Estate Trail, and elephant spotters ought to walk the Kamiranzovu Trail. We recommend visitors to Nyungwe National Park pack appropriate wet weather gear, as the rainforest receives more than 79 inches (2,000mm) of rain each year.
Website: http://www.nyungweforest.com
Gorilla Trekking
Most visitors to Rwanda come to track the endangered mountain gorillas in the far northwest of the country, on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains within the Parc des Volcans. Despite their fierce reputation, gorillas are peaceable primates, the largest and most ferocious looking of the ape family, and the chance to view them from up close is a thrilling as well as awe-inspiring experience. Tracking them usually entails a one to four-hour trek through the forest, and on steep mountain slopes, but groups are only permitted to stay with the gorillas for one hour once they have been located, to prevent behavioural disturbances and the possible transmission of diseases from humans to gorillas. Gorillas share 95% of their genes with humans and people with even a common cold are not allowed to join a group, as this could be fatal to the animal. Experienced guides, trackers and anti-poachers lead all treks, with permits allowing for a maximum of eight visitors per group.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Although Rwanda is best known for its gorilla population, expeditions to view the golden monkeys in the Virunga heartlands are increasingly popular. Found only in the bamboo forests of the area's volcanic mountains, the endangered primate is both mysterious and fascinating. Many tour operators offer Golden Monkey viewing treks, though viewing is limited to one hour at a time by law.
Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Trekking
Rwanda is a hotspot for viewing primates in their natural habitat, and along with gorillas and golden monkeys, chimpanzees are a major draw. While many people are used to seeing chimps in movies and zoos, many tour operators offer trips into Nyungwe Forest National Park to view them in their natural habitat, while guides take you around the forest via jeeps, or the special canopy walkways that give you a birds-eye view of chimps and other wildlife.
Public Holidays in Rwanda
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) |
Sat. May 24 |
Tue. May 13 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| National Heroes' Day |
Sat. February 1 |
Sat. February 1 |
| Genocide Memorial Day |
Mon. April 7 |
Mon. April 7 |
| Good Friday |
Thu. April 10 |
Wed. April 2 |
| Labour Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Independence Day |
Tue. July 1 |
Tue. July 1 |
| Liberation Day |
Fri. July 4 |
Fri. July 4 |
| Assumption |
Fri. August 15 |
Fri. August 15 |
| Christmas Day |
Thu. December 25 |
Thu. December 25 |
| Boxing Day |
Fri. December 26 |
Fri. December 26 |
