Rwanda Travel FAQ

How to use this page

These are the questions we hear most often from visitors planning Rwanda. Answers are short and practical. Rules on visas, fees and health change, so where a fact could go out of date we say so and tell you what to check. For anything else, our plan your trip page and our main FAQ go further.

Visas and entry

Do I need a visa for Rwanda?

It depends on your nationality. Many visitors can get a visa on arrival or apply online, and some nationalities are exempt. Check the current rules before you fly, and read our Rwanda visa guide.

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Often yes, but rules vary by passport. Our comparison of visa on arrival and e-visa explains the options, and we can help with paperwork through our visa assistance service.

Is there an East Africa tourist visa?

There has been a joint visa covering Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya. Rules and prices change, so see our article on the East Africa tourist visa and confirm the current position before you apply.

How long should my passport be valid?

Most countries require a passport valid for at least six months from arrival, with blank pages. Confirm the exact rule with the immigration authority.

Safety

Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

Rwanda is widely regarded as one of the safer and more orderly countries in Africa, and Kigali is clean and well organised. Normal precautions still apply. Read our honest article on whether Rwanda is safe for tourists.

Is Kigali safe at night?

Most visitors find central Kigali comfortable in the evening, with visible security and well-lit main roads. Use a registered taxi or app ride after dark rather than walking long distances. See Kigali at night.

Is Rwanda safe for solo women?

Many solo women travel here comfortably. Our guide to Rwanda for solo female travellers shares practical advice.

Gorilla trekking

How much is a gorilla permit?

The permit costs USD 1,500 per person as of this writing, set by the Rwanda Development Board. See our page on the gorilla permit for how booking works.

How fit do I need to be?

You need to manage a steep, muddy walk of two to seven hours at altitude. The pace is set gently. Read how fit you need to be.

What is the minimum age to trek?

The minimum age is 15. Younger children can enjoy other activities, described in Rwanda with young children.

How long do you stay with the gorillas?

One hour once you find the family. The trek to reach them varies from short to long.

Can I trek in the rain?

Yes. Treks go ahead in rain, and the forest is often at its most atmospheric then. Read trekking in the rainy season.

Weather and seasons

When is the best time to visit Rwanda?

June to September and December to February are the driest months and the best for trekking and safari. See our guide to the best time to visit Rwanda.

Does it rain all the time in the wet season?

No. The long rains run roughly from March to May and the short rains from October to November, but mornings are often clear. Our guide to visiting in the rainy season shows what to expect.

How hot is Rwanda?

Kigali is mild for its latitude because of its altitude, usually warm by day and cool at night. The volcanoes are much colder, so bring layers.

What should I pack?

Pack layers, a rain jacket, sturdy boots and insect repellent. For trekking, see our packing list.

Money and costs

What currency does Rwanda use?

The Rwandan franc. Cards are widely accepted in Kigali hotels, but cash is useful elsewhere. Read our guide to money in Rwanda.

Can I use US dollars?

Dollars are accepted for some tourism payments, but everyday spending uses francs. Newer notes are often preferred, so ask your operator.

How much should I tip?

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. See our note on tipping etiquette.

How much does a Rwanda trip cost?

It depends on the style, the season and the number of gorilla permits. We show how prices work on our Rwanda tour prices page and quote each trip individually.

Health

Do I need vaccinations?

Some are required and others advised, depending on where you come from. Speak to a travel clinic and read our travel health guide.

Is there malaria in Rwanda?

Malaria is present in parts of the country, especially at lower altitudes such as Akagera. Ask a doctor about prevention.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

We advise bottled or filtered water. See tap water safety.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, and it should cover medical care and evacuation. Our article on Rwanda travel insurance lists what to check.

Getting around

How do I get from Kigali airport to my hotel?

By taxi, hotel pick-up or a private transfer. We arrange airport transfers on request, and our airport arrival guide covers SIM cards and taxis.

How far is Volcanoes National Park from Kigali?

About two to two and a half hours by road. See Kigali to Volcanoes.

How far is Akagera from Kigali?

About two to two and a half hours to the southern gate.

How far is Nyungwe from Kigali?

Around five to six hours, depending on stops. Our guide to Kigali to Nyungwe explains the route.

Can I rent a car?

Yes, and you can hire a car with a driver. See car rental in Rwanda, and note that we handle rental as a proposal service.

Are the roads good?

Main roads are well surfaced but winding and busy with motorbikes and pedestrians. Read driving in Rwanda.

Culture and etiquette

What languages are spoken?

Kinyarwanda is the national language, and French, English and Swahili are also used. Learn a few words with our Kinyarwanda phrases.

Are plastic bags allowed?

No. Rwanda bans them. See the plastic bag ban.

What is umuganda?

A monthly community work morning, usually on the last Saturday of the month, when many businesses open late. See umuganda.

How should I behave at genocide memorials?

Dress modestly, speak quietly and follow the guidance at each site. See our guide to visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Planning a trip

How many days do I need?

Three days covers a gorilla trek, and five to seven days lets you add Akagera or Nyungwe. See our 3-day, 5-day and 7-day tours.

Should I book a private or group tour?

Private trips offer flexibility. Read private vs group tours.

Can I combine Rwanda with Uganda?

Yes. See Rwanda and Uganda safari.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who runs this page?

Inka Tours, a private tour operator based in Kigali. You can reach us on WhatsApp at +250 789 165 458.

How do I get a quote?

Send us your dates, group size and interests through our contact page. We reply with an itemised proposal.

How often is this page updated?

We review it regularly, but rules on visas, fees and health change, so always confirm critical facts before you travel.