What makes Rwanda Unique

Rwanda is a unique travel destination for several reasons:

  • Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda is one of the few countries in the world where visitors can see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that involves hiking through the rainforest to find a gorilla family and spending an hour observing them from a safe distance.
  • Cultural Heritage: Rwanda has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of traditional dances, music, and arts. Visitors can experience the local culture by visiting museums, markets, cultural centres, and interacting with local people.
  • Natural Beauty: Rwanda is a small country, but it is home to a stunning variety of landscapes, from tropical rainforests to savannas to mountains. Visitors can explore national parks, lakes, and other natural attractions and enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and water sports.
  • Sustainable Tourism: Rwanda is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation, and many of the tourism activities are designed to support local communities and protect the environment. Visitors can feel good about supporting these initiatives while enjoying their travel experiences.
  • History and Resilience: Rwanda has a complex and challenging history, including the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. However, the country has made remarkable progress in the years since and has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope. Visitors can learn about Rwanda's history and the inspiring stories of its people through museums, memorials, and other cultural sites.

Top Highlights in Rwanda

Lake Kivu

A beautiful lake with sandy beaches, water sports, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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Akagera National Park

A savanna park with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other wildlife such as zebras and giraffes.

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Nyungwe Forest National Park

A tropical rainforest with over 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.

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Volcanoes National Park

home to endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as beautiful volcanic landscapes.

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Travel Ideas for Rwanda

Uganda & Rwanda Active Tour

Looking for an adventure that combines breath-taking scenery, unique wildlife, and thrilling activities? Look no further than our Uganda & Rwanda Active Travel package! With our tailor-made package, you'll get to explore two of Africa's most beautiful countries, each with its own distinct charm and excitement. In Uganda, you'll trek through the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorilla. You'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures and learn about their habitat and behaviours from expert guides. But that's not all – in Uganda, you'll also go on a safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you'll spot lions, elephants, buffalo, and more. And for the thrill-seekers, you can even go on a chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest National Park. After Uganda, it's time to cross the border to Rwanda, where you'll experience the beauty of the Volcanoes National Park. Here, you'll embark on a trek to see the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. You'll also have the chance to climb Mount Bisoke, an active volcano, and be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry season from mid-May to mid-October and mid-December to mid-March. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it easier to explore the national parks and other outdoor attractions. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round, and some visitors prefer to visit during the wet season (March to May and October to December) when the landscape is lush and green, and the crowds are smaller.

Important Information for Your Travel Plans

Special Travel Tips from our Experts

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Where to Stay

Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges and hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels. Many of the top lodges and hotels are located near the national parks, offering easy access to gorilla trekking and other wildlife experiences. Some popular options include Virunga Lodge, Bisate Lodge, and One&Only Gorilla's Nest.

Getting Around

Rwanda has a well-developed road network, and the most common way to travel around is by car or bus. Taxis and motorcycle taxis (known as motos) are also widely available in urban areas. It's recommended to hire a car or driver for longer journeys, as the roads can be challenging, and public transportation can be crowded and uncomfortable. Domestic flights are also available between major cities, but they can be expensive.

Travel Themes Most Common for Rwanda

Local Cuisine

Rwandan cuisine is based on staple foods such as beans, potatoes, and plantains, often served with meat or fish and a variety of sauces. Some popular dishes to try include:

  • Ibiharage: a bean stew with vegetables and spices.
  • Isombe: mashed cassava leaves with vegetables and spices.
  • Ugali: a porridge made from maize flour or cassava flour, often served with a meat or vegetable stew.
  • Brochettes: grilled meat skewers served with vegetables and spicy sauce.

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Festivals & Public Holidays

Some of the noteworthy festivals and holidays in Rwanda include:

  • Kwita Izina: a gorilla naming ceremony that takes place in Volcanoes National Park in June.
  • Umuganura: a harvest festival that celebrates Rwanda's agricultural heritage and takes place in August.
  • Genocide Memorial Week: a week of events and commemorations in April to remember the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

It's worth noting that some businesses and services may be closed during public holidays and festivals, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time if you plan to travel during these times

When to Start Planning your Trip

Currency & Payment

The official currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan franc (RWF). US dollars are also widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas. ATMs are available in major cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's recommended to carry cash for most transactions.

Security

Rwanda is considered a safe and stable country for visitors, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions to protect their belongings and personal safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and being aware of their surroundings in crowded areas.

Visa & Immigration Rules

European Union (EU) citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in Rwanda for tourism or business purposes. The visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days. Visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and they may be required to present proof of onward or return travel and proof of sufficient funds for their stay.

It's always a good idea to check the latest entry requirements and travel advisories before planning your trip to Rwanda. The official website of the Embassy or Consulate of Rwanda in your country of residence and your Tripedeo travel expert are good resources for up-to-date information.

Health & Hygiene

Rwanda is generally considered a safe and healthy travel destination. However, visitors are advised to take precautions to prevent common travel-related illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B. Vaccinations against these diseases are recommended, and visitors should consult with their doctor or travel health clinic for advice on which vaccinations or prophylaxis are necessary.

In terms of hygiene, the standard of sanitation in Rwanda varies depending on the location, with urban areas generally having higher levels of hygiene than rural areas. Tap water is not safe to drink, and visitors should drink bottled or purified water instead.

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