Rwanda – Destination Guide

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is one of Africa’s most inspiring destinations. Small but incredibly diverse, it offers misty mountains, lush rainforests, sparkling lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. Famous for its mountain gorillas, Rwanda has become a symbol of transformation and renewal, blending conservation, culture, and community into an unforgettable travel experience.

From the bustling streets of Kigali to the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu and the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda is a place where nature, people, and purpose come together beautifully.

🌍 Regions to Explore

Kigali
The clean, modern, and progressive capital city is often the starting point for any Rwandan adventure. Visit the moving Kigali Genocide Memorial, explore the city’s thriving café scene, and discover local art galleries and craft markets.

Volcanoes National Park
Located in the northwest, this iconic park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Trek through misty bamboo forests for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. The park also offers golden monkey trekking and hikes to Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi.

Lake Kivu
A peaceful retreat on Rwanda’s western border, Lake Kivu offers scenic beaches, charming lakeside towns like Gisenyi and Kibuye, and opportunities for kayaking, boat rides, or simply relaxing by the water.

Nyungwe Forest National Park
One of Africa’s oldest rainforests, Nyungwe is a biodiversity hotspot with over 13 primate species, including chimpanzees. Enjoy canopy walks, nature trails, and birdwatching in this lush green paradise.

Akagera National Park
In the east, Akagera offers a classic safari experience with the chance to spot the Big Five. The park has made an incredible comeback through conservation efforts, and now boasts lions, rhinos, elephants, and abundant birdlife.

✈️ Getting There

• Main Airport: Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main gateway, located just 10 km from the city center.
• From Africa: Direct flights operate from Nairobi, Entebbe, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, and Dar es Salaam.
• From Europe & the Middle East: Carriers like Qatar Airways, KLM, Brussels Airlines, and Turkish Airlines offer convenient connections.

🛂 Visa Information

• Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of all countries at Kigali International Airport and all land borders.
• eVisa: Travellers can also apply online in advance through the Rwanda eVisa Portal. Processing usually takes 3 working days.
• Visa-Free Access: Citizens of all African Union countries, as well as Singapore, Hong Kong, Mauritius, the Philippines, and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states, can enter visa-free.
• East Africa Tourist Visa: A single visa that allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya for 90 days. Apply online or at the first point of entry.
• Duration: Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days and can be extended once from within Rwanda.
• Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months; return or onward ticket; proof of sufficient funds for your stay

🚗 Getting Around

• Private Drivers: The most comfortable way to explore, especially for park-to-park travel.
• Domestic Flights: RwandAir offers limited internal routes between Kigali, Kamembe (Lake Kivu), and other regions.
• Public Transport: Buses connect major towns, though schedules can be irregular.
• Tours & Transfers: Most visitors opt for organized tours or private transfers between destinations.

🍲 Food & Drink

Rwandan cuisine is hearty and fresh, emphasizing local produce and farm-to-table flavors.

• Try ugali (maize porridge), isombe (cassava leaves with peanut sauce), and brochettes (grilled meat skewers).
• Coffee and tea are excellent – Rwanda is one of Africa’s top producers.
• Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water.

🌦️ Best Time to Visit

• June to September: Dry season with the best conditions for gorilla trekking and safaris.
• December to February: Another dry period, great for travel and photography.
• March to May / October to November: Rainy seasons, but landscapes are lush and beautiful – fewer crowds and lower prices.

🎒 Packing Guide

• Lightweight clothing for warm days and breathable layers for cool evenings
• Waterproof jacket for sudden rain showers
• Hiking boots for trekking and gorilla visits
• Long pants and sleeves to protect from insects
• A good camera and binoculars
• Reusable water bottle
• Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Insect repellent and basic first aid items
• Cash in small denominations (Rwandan Francs)

💡 Practical Info

• Language: Kinyarwanda (official), English, French
• Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF)
• Electricity: 230V, plug types C & J (same as Europe)
• Water: Drink only bottled or filtered water
• Internet: Strong 4G coverage in most towns; eSIMs and local SIMs widely available
• Vaccinations: Yellow Fever (required), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and routine immunisations recommended
• Travel Insurance: Strongly advised, especially for trekking activities
• Safety: Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa with low crime rates
• LGBTQIA+ Visitors: Homosexuality is not illegal, but public displays of affection can attract attention in rural areas – Kigali is more progressive
• Connectivity: MTN and Airtel offer reliable SIM and eSIM options. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

💖 Why Visit Rwanda

Rwanda is a story of rebirth – a nation that has transformed from tragedy into triumph. It’s a place where every travel moment feels meaningful, from meeting mountain gorillas eye-to-eye to hearing the laughter of children in Kigali’s bustling markets. With its commitment to sustainability, safety, and community-driven tourism, Rwanda offers one of Africa’s most uplifting and unforgettable travel experiences.