Rwanda
The land of a thousand hills
Your Rwanda Adventure
starts here
Located in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda is a country that captivates the hearts of travelers with its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and remarkable wildlife. Bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda is renowned for its rolling green hills, lush rainforests, and the famed Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. A journey through Rwanda offers a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience, from its mist-covered mountains to the vibrant life of its capital, Kigali.
The history and resilience of Rwanda are ever-present, with sites such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial offering visitors a chance to reflect on the nation's past while celebrating its extraordinary transformation. The country's vibrant traditions are showcased in its lively markets, local crafts, and traditional dances, providing an authentic cultural experience. Rwanda encourages travelers to embrace adventure, with opportunities ranging from gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park to exploring the vast savannahs of Akagera National Park.
A trip to Rwanda offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether trekking to see the iconic mountain gorillas, hiking through the lush hills of Nyungwe Forest, or exploring the streets of Kigali, Rwanda promises an experience that touches the soul. Its wildlife, history, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both serenity and inspiration in the heart of Africa.
When can i do my
Rwanda safari?
Rwanda offers some times of year to visit that can be incredibly rewarding, but can also throw up some times of year to either avoid, or – at the very least – be very well aware of what the conditions will be like.
The best time to visit Rwanda is between June and September, the country's dry season. This time of the year has the most comfortable climate for gorilla tracking..
Importantly, the success rate of Gorilla trekking is nearly 100%, so if Gorilla trekking is the key objective of your trip, you are essentially guaranteed to experience getting up close and personal with this iconic species regardless of when you travel.
The wet season months of March through to May, as well as November, are not exactly for the faint of heart as conditions under foot can be fairly treacherous.
As with July, August is one of the most popular peak season times to visit Rwanda, offering perfect conditions for wildlife activities, clear skies and moderate temperatures. With it being one of the driest months of the year, it is considered one of the best months for Gorilla trekking. However, it can’t be stressed enough how important it is to book in advance for this time of year.
Everything Rwanda
Travel Guide
Visiting Rwanda is a bit like doing a triathlon. It’s challenging, exciting, tiring and emotional. It also has three important aspects: people and culture, national parks and gorilla watching. It is most celebrated for its gorilla populations and strictly managed safaris in Volcanoes National Park. However, Rwanda’s other two national parks are also habitat havens. Nyungwe boasts chimps and other primates, and Akagera is a veritable ark.
More than everything else, it is SAFE.
First let us start with some essential Kigali tips.
- Don’t bring plastic into the country. Rwanda prides itself on being plastic free. Remember to pack your things in paper bags before you arrive in the country. Be prepared to be “searched” for plastic in your baggage.
- Do no ask the locals their ethnicity. Rwandan people have come from a bad place. As a nation, they are working very hard to move forward, forgive and forget their violent past. Do not ask them about genocide unless they want to tell you about it.
- Don’t eat in public. Unlike the rest of Africa, you will hardly find any food carts or food being sold openly. This also translates into “do not eat in public.” Rwandans take this rule seriously. Eat at designated spots.
- Dress code. While there is no strict dress code to be followed, make sure you are properly dressed. Flip flops in public are frowned upon.
- Avoid drinking tap water. Drinking tap water may not kill you, but best avoid it if you are not used to it. Most hotels and restaurants have free water stations where you can fill up your bottle.
Rwanda’s unit of currency is the Rwandan franc but we'd recommend bringing US dollars (post-2003 bills only) or Euros in cash. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, but not in many other places
How safe is it to travel
to Rwanda?
Rwanda is a wonderful destination if you are looking for an unforgettable adventure in Africa. However, as with any trip to a foreign country, safety is paramount. From the general safety situation to health and hygiene standards to important rules of conduct - here you will find all the information you need for a safe and unforgettable trip to Rwanda.
More than everything else, it is SAFE.
Safety in Rwanda’s Urban Areas
Rwandan cities—especially the capital, Kigali—are known for their high levels of safety compared to many other African destinations. However, travelers should remain alert to minimize risks such as petty crime and fully enjoy their time in the city.
Staying Safe in Kigali
Kigali is considered one of Africa’s safest capitals, but petty crime can still occur. Incidents like pickpocketing or theft from vehicles and hotel rooms are infrequent but tend to happen in busy areas such as markets, bus stations, and public spaces.
Safe Neighborhoods: Travelers looking for secure accommodations and modern infrastructure will find the following neighborhoods particularly appealing:
- Kiyovu: Centrally located, home to embassies and government offices.
- Kacyiru: A calm area known for its concentration of NGOs and the US Embassy.
- Nyarutarama: A wealthy district with well-lit streets and contemporary architecture.
- Kimihurura: A luxurious area popular for its upscale restaurants and hotels.
Practical Safety Tips for Travelers:
- Protect Valuables: Keep cash and documents close to your body and use your hotel safe.
- Be Cautious at Night: Avoid poorly lit streets and opt for official taxis or hotel transfers when traveling after dark.
- Stay Low-Key: Refrain from displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
- Watch Your Belongings: Be extra mindful of your bags and valuables in crowded places like markets or during events.
By exercising basic precautions and staying in safer districts, you can explore Kigali confidently and enjoy its vibrant culture.
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