Money & Spending
Rwanda’s currency is the Rwandan franc, but it’s advisable to bring US dollars (post-2003 bills only) or euros in cash, as traveller’s cheques often attract poor exchange rates. Conduct any necessary banking in Kigali, as there are limited opportunities outside the capital, where bureaux de change usually offer the best exchange rates.
Credit cards, particularly MasterCard, are accepted in some upmarket hotels and restaurants in Kigali but are not widely accepted elsewhere.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in most places in Rwanda, except for some high-end restaurants in town where a 10% tip is standard. During gorilla treks, tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. The amount varies depending on your group size and the level of assistance required. Porters, if hired, should receive the highest tip, followed by guides, trackers, and security personnel.
Hiring a porter is recommended as they can assist you over tricky parts of the hike, offer support, and carry your daypack if you become fatigued. Tip your porter well for excellent service.
Climate
Average year-round temperatures range from about 12°C (54°F) to 27°C (81°F). The rainy seasons are from March to April and October to mid-December. The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons from June to September and late December to February.
What To Pack
When packing for your Rwanda safari, especially for gorilla trekking, include long, thick trousers and long-sleeved tops, long socks or gaiters, light gloves, a hat, a raincoat, and sturdy, comfortable hiking boots (break them in before your trip). Pack a change of clothes and a warm fleece in your daypack, along with sunscreen and insect repellent.
Avoid wearing strong fragrances, bright colors, black, or blue as these can attract insects and repel wildlife. Bring extra stationery, toys, or footballs for village children. Consult your doctor about vaccinations and medication, especially for altitude and motion sickness.
Visa & Passport Requirements
A passport valid for at least six months is required. Visas are required for most visitors except for citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Hong Kong, Kenya, and South Africa. Multiple-entry tourist visas can be purchased from Rwandan embassies or consulates and are valid for three months. It is recommended to obtain visas prior to arrival.
Travel Insurance
Adequate travel insurance should be taken out before departure. This should cover medical situations, cancellations, and baggage. When you travel with Frero Adventures, you are covered by emergency evacuation insurance, which guarantees emergency evacuation to the nearest hospital but does not cover treatment costs once in hospital.
Safety
Check with your guide for any potentially unsafe areas to avoid. Avoid deserted areas, especially at night, and dress down to avoid drawing attention. Use concealed travel wallets and avoid taking pictures of anything related to the government or military.
Health
Consult your physician before traveling for advice on precautions against malaria and yellow fever. A Yellow Fever vaccination is required at least 10 days before travel. Bring any special medication with enough supplies to last the visit.
Photography
Bring sufficient memory cards and batteries, as these are not readily available in Uganda and Rwanda. Ask for permission before taking photographs of residents. The use of drones is not allowed in any conservation areas until their impact on wildlife and anti-poaching initiatives can be assessed.
About Rwanda
History & Economy
Rwanda has a rich history of pre-colonial kingdoms and cattle-owning dynasties. It was colonized first by Germans and then by Belgians, gaining independence in 1962. The 1994 genocide was a low point, but since then, the country has made significant progress. Agriculture dominates the economy, with tourism as the greatest foreign exchange earner.
People & Culture
Rwanda is densely populated with over 11 million people. The population includes Hutu farmers, Tutsi cattle-raisers, and the indigenous Twa hunter-gatherers. Modern Rwanda tends to ignore ethnic labels. The majority are Catholics, with Protestants close behind. The official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, and English. Music, dance, and oral traditions are central to Rwandan culture.
Landscape & Wildlife
Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ Rwanda is characterized by volcanoes, mountain ranges, lakes, and rivers. Its position on the Albertine Rift Valley makes it one of the most bio-diverse environments in the world. The Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas, Nyungwe Forest for other primates, and Akagera National Park as the sole savannah reserve. Rwanda boasts around 670 bird species.
Things Not to Do
Don’t drive at night
We did it once—after losing track of time post-Mount Bisoke hike—and never again.
Oncoming cars and trucks veered into our lane as if our car didn’t exist and the cyclists and pedestrians on the roadside didn’t seem to realize they’re barely visible at night. It was terrifying.
Don’t speed
We learned this the hard way. We got a 25,000 RWF fine within our first hour on the road.
The speed limits change from 80 km/h to 40 to 60 with no rhyme or reason, so keep an eye on the signs. And even when it seems unreasonable to go 40 km/h, abide by the limit or pay the consequences. Speed traps are everywhere. So are children, cyclists, and other pedestrians on the street.
Don’t arrive in Rwanda on umuganda
Umuganda happens on the morning of the last Saturday of every month. All Rwandan citizens aged 18 to 65 are required to participate in community service and everything else closes and grinds to a halt.
