What to expect when

travelling in Rwanda

When is the best time to visit Rwanda ?

Rwanda has a pleasant, temperate climate year-round, thanks to its high altitude. Days are generally warm and nights are cool.

The dry seasons – from mid-December to early February, and June to September – are ideal for gorilla tracking and national park visits.

The wet seasons – March to May and October to mid-December – bring lush scenery but can make forest trails muddy and slippery.

Visa requirements

All visitors need a visa to enter Rwanda. The process is simple:

Apply online in advance via the Rwanda Immigration website

Or obtain a visa on arrival (available to many nationalities)

If you’re visiting Uganda or Kenya too, the East Africa Tourist Visa is a great multi-country option

Health and vaccinations

To travel to Rwanda, a yellow fever vaccination is required. We also recommend:

Taking anti-malarial medication

Bringing a basic first-aid kit

Always consult your travel clinic several months before departure

Medical facilities in Rwanda’s major cities are of good standard. In remote areas, facilities may be limited.

The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF)

US Dollars are widely accepted in hotels and lodges

Credit Cards are accepted in most lodges, however, it is always important to have some cash money as well.

Make sure your US Dollar notes are clean and issued within the last 10 years

ATMs are available in cities like Kigali, but not in remote areas

Kinyarwanda is the national language and widely spoken.

English and French are both official and commonly used, especially in tourism.

All guides, hotel staff and park rangers speak good English.

Most travellers explore Uganda with a private 4×4 vehicle and driver-guide – the most comfortable and easy way to see the country. However, Self drives are possible (clickable to the self drive part).

Roads are generally in excellent condition, even in rural areas

Travel times between key destinations are relatively short

Tipping is welcomed and appreciated in Rwanda. A rough guideline:

Drivers and guides: USD 5–10 per person per day

Lodge or hotel staff: USD 2–5 per person per day, often via a tip box

Rwanda is very clean – littering is not tolerated, and plastic bags are banned

Always ask permission before taking photos of people

Dress modestly, especially in rural or traditional areas

Plastic bags are banned so bring a reusable bag with you.

Traveller Stories

Still have questions about travelling in

Rwanda?​

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