Rwanda Travel Information
Plan your Rwanda safari with confidence using our essential travel guide. From visa requirements and health precautions to gorilla trekking permits and packing advice, we’ve gathered everything you need to prepare for your journey
Quick Facts
Time Zone
GMT + 2
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
International Airports
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Best Time
June to September
Malaria
Malaria zone
Languages
Kinyarwanda (official), English, French and Swahili.
Quick Facts
Time Zone
GMT + 2
Currency
Rwandan Franc (RWF)
International Airports
Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Best Time
June to September
Malaria
Malaria zone
Languages
Kinyarwanda (official), English, French and Swahili.
Rwanda's month-by-month visit guide
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
Visiting in January
January in Rwanda is ideal for a visit. Enjoying warm days and comfortable nights during the short dry season, it’s perfect for gorilla trekking. The risk of rain is low, minimizing mosquito concerns. Consider combining Rwanda and Tanzania for an excellent safari in January. High and medium-altitude regions are hot during the day but cool in the evenings, while low-lying areas are warm day and night. This popular safari time offers unforgettable treks, but plan ahead for higher prices during the dry season.
FEB
Visiting in February
February marks the end of Rwanda’s short dry season, offering excellent conditions for mountain gorilla trekking. It’s not the peak season, providing reasonable prices with early booking. Consider combining Rwanda with a Kenyan safari, and add a coastal beach experience. If heading to the Virunga Mountains, pack a fleece for chilly nights at high altitudes. During January and February, high and medium-altitude areas are hot during the day and cool at night, while low-lying regions are warm. This popular safari time presents stunning scenery, warm weather, and memorable forest treks, but plan ahead for higher prices during the dry season.
MAR
Visiting in March
March in Rwanda signals the start of the long rains, making it a reasonable time to visit. While persistent and heavy rain may pose challenges for gorilla trekking, the rainforest thrives. Hiking becomes tricky due to slippery conditions. Opt for exploring other wildlife areas and parks, capitalizing on March’s vibrant birdlife. Despite the wet weather lasting until mid-May, it’s a prime time for primate trekking. Quality rain gear is essential for navigating the dense, wet forests during this period.
APR
Visiting in April
April is challenging for Rwanda visits due to the peak of the long rainy season. Trekking is hindered by heavy rainfall, creating slippery and muddy conditions. Bring waterproof gear, especially for cameras. However, it’s a favorable month for chimpanzee sightings in Nyungwe National Park, as they gather lower to the ground. April hosts Genocide Memorial Week, commemorating the 1994 genocide. Following May’s wet conditions, hiking around the Virungas is challenging. Consider these factors when planning your Rwanda visit in April.
MAY
Visiting in May
May in Rwanda, the last month of the long rainy season, is a mixed time to visit. Gorilla trekking can be challenging due to marsh-like rainforests, but as the month progresses, rain eases. Unpredictable weather characterizes May. While not ideal for gorilla trekking, it’s excellent for chimpanzee tracking in lush forests. Mid-May sees a decline in rain, reducing tourist crowds and offering last-minute gorilla trekking permits. Birdwatchers enjoy breeding season, with vibrant species filling the skies. The landscape flourishes with greenery, newborn animals, and the chance for unique wildlife encounters.
JUN
Visiting in June
June kicks off Rwanda’s long dry season, optimal for gorilla tracking. Book permits a year ahead for availability. Explore national parks like Akagera during this dry period. Pair your Rwanda visit with a Kenya or Tanzania safari, capitalizing on the dry season for the wildebeest migration. Despite being the dry season, pack waterproofs for potential rain, especially in rainforests. This season, from June to September, offers a comfortable climate, making it the prime time for gorilla trekking.
JUL
Visiting in July
July marks Rwanda’s peak season, making it an excellent but bustling time to visit. With the Western summer holidays, lodges and permits fill quickly; booking a year in advance is advisable. The month offers optimal conditions for gorilla treks, as the ground dries up post the long rainy season while the landscape stays lush. Engage in diverse wildlife activities like tracking golden monkeys and exploring Akagera National Park. It’s a prime safari month, perfect for combining a Rwandan holiday with East African destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. Don’t miss the Rwanda Film Festival, featuring local and international films.
AUG
Visiting in August
August, akin to July, stands out as prime time for Rwanda travel with dry and warm conditions. Perfect for gorilla trekking, advance booking for permits and accommodation is crucial. The peak season enhances safari experiences in dry national parks with concentrated wildlife. This month pairs well with Tanzania or Kenya for a diverse safari. Consider chimpanzee tracking too, as the dry conditions in August facilitate this adventure.
SEP
Visiting in September
September, concluding Rwanda’s peak dry season, anticipates some rainfall. While the rainforest may feel slightly humid, it’s an excellent time for mountain gorilla sightings. Ideal for safaris, consider combining Rwanda with Kenya or Tanzania for a wildlife adventure. The month hosts Kwita Izina, the gorilla-naming ceremony, celebrating newborns. Enjoy various outdoor activities like biking, walking, swimming, and fishing in the favorable weather.
OCT
Visiting in October
October signals the start of short rains in Rwanda until November. Quick bursts of rain enhance birdlife and offer prime conditions for chimpanzee tracking. Ideal for photographers capturing misty mountains, October allows combining a Rwandan safari with beach time along Kenya’s coast. Though not optimal for gorilla tracking due to wet conditions, the short rainy season brings lower costs for permits and accommodations. Embrace occasional showers for a budget-friendly visit between October and December, as they quickly clear to reveal blue skies.
NOV
Visiting in November
November, part of Rwanda’s short rainy season, sees brief, heavy rain showers similar to October. It’s considered a good time to visit, although tracking mountain gorillas can be challenging as they seek shelter during rains. The lush landscape with vibrant greenery offers excellent photo opportunities, and birdwatchers can delight in the increased birdlife. With an average of 140mm of rain, waterproofs are recommended. Traveling between October and December means encountering short showers, but lower costs for gorilla trekking permits and accommodations make it a favorable time for budget-conscious travelers unswayed by a bit of rain and mud.
DEC
Visiting in December
December in Rwanda marks the transition from short rains to a brief dry season. Gorilla permits are in high demand around Christmas, so booking in advance is crucial. Prepare for chilly mornings and evenings in the mountains. Lodge prices rise during the festive season, and Volcanoes National Park can be bustling. In the drier period, explore outdoor activities like canoeing, climbing, biking, and fishing. If visiting Rwanda from October to December, expect short rain bursts, but take advantage of lower costs for gorilla trekking permits and accommodations if you don’t mind a bit of mud and rain.
Key Info
- Equatorial climate (25 – 30°C). Evenings can be cool, especially in the higher-altitude rainforest regions such as Volcanoes National Park, so it’s wise to pack some warm layers
- Rainfall is possible year-round, particularly in the mountainous areas—rain gear is essential for gorilla trekking and outdoor activities.
- Secure Gorilla permits in advance.
- The best time to visit Rwanda for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons — from December to February and June to September — when conditions are ideal for hiking and photography.
Rwanda's month-by-month visit guide
Visiting in January
January in Rwanda is ideal for a visit. Enjoying warm days and comfortable nights during the short dry season, it’s perfect for gorilla trekking. The risk of rain is low, minimizing mosquito concerns. Consider combining Rwanda and Tanzania for an excellent safari in January. High and medium-altitude regions are hot during the day but cool in the evenings, while low-lying areas are warm day and night. This popular safari time offers unforgettable treks, but plan ahead for higher prices during the dry season.
Visiting in February
February marks the end of Rwanda’s short dry season, offering excellent conditions for mountain gorilla trekking. It’s not the peak season, providing reasonable prices with early booking. Consider combining Rwanda with a Kenyan safari, and add a coastal beach experience. If heading to the Virunga Mountains, pack a fleece for chilly nights at high altitudes. During January and February, high and medium-altitude areas are hot during the day and cool at night, while low-lying regions are warm. This popular safari time presents stunning scenery, warm weather, and memorable forest treks, but plan ahead for higher prices during the dry season.
Visiting in March
March in Rwanda signals the start of the long rains, making it a reasonable time to visit. While persistent and heavy rain may pose challenges for gorilla trekking, the rainforest thrives. Hiking becomes tricky due to slippery conditions. Opt for exploring other wildlife areas and parks, capitalizing on March’s vibrant birdlife. Despite the wet weather lasting until mid-May, it’s a prime time for primate trekking. Quality rain gear is essential for navigating the dense, wet forests during this period.
Visiting in April
April is challenging for Rwanda visits due to the peak of the long rainy season. Trekking is hindered by heavy rainfall, creating slippery and muddy conditions. Bring waterproof gear, especially for cameras. However, it’s a favorable month for chimpanzee sightings in Nyungwe National Park, as they gather lower to the ground. April hosts Genocide Memorial Week, commemorating the 1994 genocide. Following May’s wet conditions, hiking around the Virungas is challenging. Consider these factors when planning your Rwanda visit in April.
Visiting in May
May in Rwanda, the last month of the long rainy season, is a mixed time to visit. Gorilla trekking can be challenging due to marsh-like rainforests, but as the month progresses, rain eases. Unpredictable weather characterizes May. While not ideal for gorilla trekking, it’s excellent for chimpanzee tracking in lush forests. Mid-May sees a decline in rain, reducing tourist crowds and offering last-minute gorilla trekking permits. Birdwatchers enjoy breeding season, with vibrant species filling the skies. The landscape flourishes with greenery, newborn animals, and the chance for unique wildlife encounters.
Visiting in June
June kicks off Rwanda’s long dry season, optimal for gorilla tracking. Book permits a year ahead for availability. Explore national parks like Akagera during this dry period. Pair your Rwanda visit with a Kenya or Tanzania safari, capitalizing on the dry season for the wildebeest migration. Despite being the dry season, pack waterproofs for potential rain, especially in rainforests. This season, from June to September, offers a comfortable climate, making it the prime time for gorilla trekking.
Visiting in July
July marks Rwanda’s peak season, making it an excellent but bustling time to visit. With the Western summer holidays, lodges and permits fill quickly; booking a year in advance is advisable. The month offers optimal conditions for gorilla treks, as the ground dries up post the long rainy season while the landscape stays lush. Engage in diverse wildlife activities like tracking golden monkeys and exploring Akagera National Park. It’s a prime safari month, perfect for combining a Rwandan holiday with East African destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. Don’t miss the Rwanda Film Festival, featuring local and international films.
Visiting in August
August, akin to July, stands out as prime time for Rwanda travel with dry and warm conditions. Perfect for gorilla trekking, advance booking for permits and accommodation is crucial. The peak season enhances safari experiences in dry national parks with concentrated wildlife. This month pairs well with Tanzania or Kenya for a diverse safari. Consider chimpanzee tracking too, as the dry conditions in August facilitate this adventure.
Visiting in September
September, concluding Rwanda’s peak dry season, anticipates some rainfall. While the rainforest may feel slightly humid, it’s an excellent time for mountain gorilla sightings. Ideal for safaris, consider combining Rwanda with Kenya or Tanzania for a wildlife adventure. The month hosts Kwita Izina, the gorilla-naming ceremony, celebrating newborns. Enjoy various outdoor activities like biking, walking, swimming, and fishing in the favorable weather.
Visiting in October
October signals the start of short rains in Rwanda until November. Quick bursts of rain enhance birdlife and offer prime conditions for chimpanzee tracking. Ideal for photographers capturing misty mountains, October allows combining a Rwandan safari with beach time along Kenya’s coast. Though not optimal for gorilla tracking due to wet conditions, the short rainy season brings lower costs for permits and accommodations. Embrace occasional showers for a budget-friendly visit between October and December, as they quickly clear to reveal blue skies.
Visiting in November
November, part of Rwanda’s short rainy season, sees brief, heavy rain showers similar to October. It’s considered a good time to visit, although tracking mountain gorillas can be challenging as they seek shelter during rains. The lush landscape with vibrant greenery offers excellent photo opportunities, and birdwatchers can delight in the increased birdlife. With an average of 140mm of rain, waterproofs are recommended. Traveling between October and December means encountering short showers, but lower costs for gorilla trekking permits and accommodations make it a favorable time for budget-conscious travelers unswayed by a bit of rain and mud.
Visiting in December
December in Rwanda marks the transition from short rains to a brief dry season. Gorilla permits are in high demand around Christmas, so booking in advance is crucial. Prepare for chilly mornings and evenings in the mountains. Lodge prices rise during the festive season, and Volcanoes National Park can be bustling. In the drier period, explore outdoor activities like canoeing, climbing, biking, and fishing. If visiting Rwanda from October to December, expect short rain bursts, but take advantage of lower costs for gorilla trekking permits and accommodations if you don’t mind a bit of mud and rain.
Getting There
The main international airport of Rwanda is:
Kigali International Airport (KGL), located on the outskirts of Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.
You can check your best flight route here
Arrival
Upon arrival, our guide will be waiting for you at the paging area. In case you have any difficulty seeing our rep when you arrive then reach out to us on our 24-hour emergency contact number, +254-723-979370 or +254-733-718904.
Key Info
- Main International Airport: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Visa
A visa is required to enter Rwanda.
A single-entry tourist visa costs US $50 - exclusions apply for select countries and is valid for 30 days.
Visas can be applied for before departure, by submitting an application online, with the option to pay online or upon arrival. It is advised to have the exact amount in cash in U.S. dollars to pay for the visa if doing so on arrival.
The East African Tourist Visa (EATV) covers Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda, costs US $100 and is valid for 90 days.
Citizens of country members to the African Union, Commonwealth and La Francophonie can get free visas in Rwanda for a visit of 30 days.
A multiple entry Visa costs US $70.
From more information and how to apply for a Visa please click here.
Passport
Present a valid passport of not less than 6 months validity to the Immigration officer at the point of entry.
Key Info
- A VISA is required, please check via the online booking site.
- Check passport & documentation prior to travel.
Money
Rwanda’s official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). For small purchases like taxis, tips, and souvenirs, it’s useful to carry local currency.
We recommend exchanging some money at the airport on arrival — banks and authorized foreign exchange bureaus generally offer better rates than hotels.
US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted - however, notes must be undamaged, and printed in 2009 or later - old, torn, or marked bills are frequently refused.
Major hotels, lodges, and reputable shops in urban or tourist areas often accept Visa and Mastercard (usually with a surcharge). But card acceptance is very limited in rural areas, safari camps, and small vendors.
There are banks and ATMs at Kigali International Airport and in many major towns. These allow withdrawals of local currency using international Visa or Mastercard options with a PIN—but some ATMs may only support local bank cards or have reliability issues for foreign cards.
If you plan to use your credit or debit card during your trip, inform your bank or card provider in advance to avoid it being blocked as a suspected fraudulent transaction.
TIPPING
Tipping is entirely at your discretion and although it is not a requirement it is customary to tip for good service.
There is not a set amount to tip, so please take the following information as a guideline:
Private Guides: $5-$10 per person per trek/day
National Park Guides: $5 per person per trek/day
Ranger: $2-3-per ranger per person per trek/day
Gorilla trackers: $2-$5 per tracker per trek/day
General Hotel / Lodge staff: $5 per guest per day
Gratuities for the general staff are evenly distributed between all team members.
Tipping boxes are usually available on your day of departure from each lodge.
Key Info
- The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency of Rwanda.
- There are banks and ATMs at Kigali International Airport and in many major towns.
- Tipping is entirely at your discretion and although it is not a requirement it is customary to tip for good service.
Medical
Anti-malarial medication is considered essential and it is also advisable to try and avoid mosquito bites by using repellent and by covering exposed areas of skin, particularly in the evenings when mosquitos tend to be more active.
You can reduce the risk of malaria by using prophylactics (which should be started before arriving in Kenya and under your doctor’s guidance) and by following these simple procedures:
- Wear long sleeves and long trousers to avoid bites from mosquitos, insects and ticks.
- Apply mosquito repellents on a regular basis to exposed skin.
- Where possible sleep under a mosquito net.
- Burn an insect/mosquito repellent candle or coil.
All travellers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of malaria and should be advised to seek immediate medical attention if these occur either whilst abroad or up to a year after their return.
Speak to your Doctor or Travel Health Clinic for more information.
The recommendations regarding vaccinations & anti-malaria tablets need to be discussed with a professional, therefore it is advised that you contact your Doctor/medical centre/ travel health clinic for up-to-date details, this should ideally be done at least 8 weeks before you travel.
Vaccinations
All travellers must have a Yellow Fever vaccination to enter Rwanda. You’ll need to show a valid International Certificate of Vaccination at immigration. Travelers with medical exemptions must carry official documentation, though entry is at the discretion of border authorities.
The recommendations regarding vaccinations & anti-malaria tablets need to be discussed with a professional, therefore it is advised that you contact your Doctor/medical centre/ travel health clinic for up-to-date details, this should ideally be done at least 8 weeks before you travel.
Key Info
- The recommendations regarding vaccinations & anti-malaria tablets need to be discussed with a professional, therefore it is advised that you contact your Doctor/medical centre/ travel health clinic for up-to-date details, this should ideally be done at least 8 weeks before you travel.
GORILLA TREKING
In order to minimise human contact with the gorilla groups the authorities issue Gorilla Permits – ensuring that a limited number of visitors can observe them each day. These permits are in high demand are are non refundable, so do book early to secure your chosen date/s.
Gorilla Rules
Eco-tourism is nature-based tourism that meets conservation objectives. Gorilla tourism depends largely on the conservation of these magnificent animals. Some rules have been developed to protect the gorillas and the park rangers will brief you before the trekking. Please respect them.
What to bring
With changeable weather conditions and dense forest vegetation it is advisable to take layers of protective clothing. We recommend wearing the following:
- T-shirt
- Long-sleeved top
- Warm fleece / jumper
- Thick trousers
- Thick wool socks (and gaiters preferably)
- Strong lightweight, water-proof walking boots
- Hat with brim
- Garden gloves to aid scrambling up banks
A small rucksack with:
- Bottle of water
- Pack lunch and snacks
- Binoculars
- Camera / video camera with spare battery, memory cards or film
- Light-weight rain mac / poncho
A sealed plastic bag around camera / lenses will help keep them dry on the trek.
For those who wear contact lenses, cleaning fluid is not readily available and dust or sun could prove an irritation, so it’s best to bring a pair of glasses along for peace of mind.
Pockets are useful for valuables and spare camera batteries / lenses etc as all other equipment must be left with porters approx 200 metres away from the gorilla groups.
Key Info
- Gorilla Permits must be purchased in advanced.
- Aways book you permit through a licensed tour operator.
- Pockets are useful for valuables and spare camera batteries / lenses etc as all other equipment must be left with porters approx 200 metres away from the gorilla groups.
Safety & Security
Gamewatchers Safaris is a member of the Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Centre and is regularly updated on any issues of importance for tourists.
Our head office is based in Nairobi and we work with reputable safari companies who are located on the ground in Rwanda. These companies are the eyes and ears on the ground and can inform our head office in Nairobi of any security situation as it may happen, ensuring that we can act and respond swiftly.
In Rwanda, you should use the same travel precautions as you would in other parts of the world.
- In the cities and main tourist areas, be on the alert for handbag snatchers and pick pockets.
- Do not travel with any precious jewellery items.
- Make copies of your travel documents and keep these in a safe place – separate from the original documents.
- Split out cash into separate bundles of small amounts and keep separately.
- Ensure that luggage can be locked.
- Always wear sear belts whilst traveling in vehicles and ensure doors are locked.
- Avoid travelling after dark in isolated places particularly empty beaches.
Insurance
All travellers must have adequate and comprehensive travel health insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers all the activities you plan on doing in Rwanda and covers your full stay in the country and travel to/from.
We are pleased to offer the JWS Travel Policy through JW Seagon with whom we now have an arrangement to book this for our clients at competitive prices. Click here for more details
Key Info
- Gamewatchers Safaris is part of the Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Centre, receiving regular updates on tourist safety.
- All travellers must have adequate and comprehensive travel health insurance.
- Keep copies of travel documents, lock luggage, wear seat belts, carry small amounts of cash separately, and avoid isolated areas after dark.
Internet & WIFI
Rwanda has an excellent mobile phone network covering almost the entire country, and international calls can be made easily.
The country is among the top three African countries in terms of internet connectivity, with an ever-growing fibre optic network.
However, it is best to think of this trip as an opportunity to take a break from the world of tech and reconnect to nature.
If necessary, we can check each camp individually if there is a wish to know if it has an internet/wifi connection.
Electricity
Rwanda operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses plug type G (British three-pin) being the most common in hotels and lodges.
Travel tip:
To stay connected, bring a universal travel adapter that supports type G plug sockets plugs and can handle 230V. Many adapters also include USB ports for convenient charging of phones and cameras.
Key Info
- Excellent mobile phone and internet coverage within Rwanda.
- Uganda operates on 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency.
- Bring a universal adapter supporting Type C and Type J plug sockets and USB ports for easy device charging.
Plastic Bags
Please refrain from bringing plastic bags to Rwanda. Banned by law since 2008, any plastic bags in your luggage will be confiscated at the airport or other point of entry.
Rwanda has been voted the cleanest country in Africa, all litter MUST be disposed of responsibly.
Visitors are advised to avoid packing any plastic bags in their suitcases or in carry-on hand luggage.
Items purchased at the airport before boarding the aircraft should be removed from plastic bags.
Clothing
Pack lightly for your safari to include:
- Comfortable, loose fitting cotton clothing in muted and natural tones is recommended.
- Long sleeves and long trousers, shorts and t-shorts with enclosed footwear.
- Jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, when it can get chilly.
- Hat to keep the sun off and protect from sunburn.
- Small day pack to hold water bottle, binoculars, notebook and pen, sunglasses, face/hand wipes.
Please note that camouflage-patterned clothes are illegal, so avoid any item like this.
You may be surprised at how VERY cold it can get at night and in the early morning, especially in the higher altitude regions where you will definitely need a warm jacket as it is freezing cold in the early mornings!
See here for our full clothing packing guide
drinking water
Drinking Water:
Do not drink water straight from the tap, always drink from bottled water.
Also avoid ice as this may be used from tap water,
Brush teeth with bottled drinking water.
De-Hydration
Always take a bottle of drinking water in your day bag on any activity or excursions – even if it’s a short one – and take regular, small drinks of water.
Wear a hat and sunscreen at all times and cover up/take shade from the heat of the sun, especially during the hottest times of the day.
bites & stings
Bugs and small creatures are all a part of being in the wilds of Africa. It is of course important to take precautions against any opportunity for bites or stings, so being aware is important.
When walking in the bush always wear long trousers and enclosed shoes or walking boots , with thick socks covering the ankles for protection. When walking in long grass, check your legs and clothes for grass ticks – especially in the rainy season, even when you are wearing long trousers.
Check & shake out shoes and walking boots before putting them on.
Always look first to see where you are sitting, when picking something up or when putting your hand/foot into something, like a bag or shoe – check first!
If you think you may have been bitten or stung by something, always inform the Camp Manager & Safari Guide as soon as possible.
Travel Checklist
- Check passport validity
- Check visa requirements
- Check health & malaria requirements with a health professional
- Arrange comprehensive travel insurance
Rwanda Safari Tours
To truly experience the magic of Rwanda, a guided safari offers the most rewarding way to explore its breathtaking landscapes and encounter its remarkable wildlife. From the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu and the savannahs of Akagera, each journey reveals a different side of this extraordinary country.
Our safari specialists can design a tailor-made itinerary to suit your interests—or you can browse our curated selection of Rwanda tours below to begin planning your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
