rwanda travel tips

Rwanda Travel Tips

Rwanda offers a unique travel experience for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. If you’re planning a trip to this captivating destination, here are some essential travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Access

Rwanda, can be reached by both air and road transport. Air transport is best used when traveling from overseas while road transport is used when coming from a nearby African country connecting to Rwanda; Congo Kibatsi village and the Cyangugu border, Uganda via the Kigezi village and even Tanzania. The international flights all land at Kigali International Airport which is just two hours’ drive to the capital city of Rwanda (Kigali).
There’s also a well-developed transport network within the country that eases accessibility to the tourist attraction centers fun and easy.

Money & Banking

Rwanda mainly uses francs, (for a single currency unit) and the US dollar is the other widely used currency throughout the country. If you needs to exchange their money, it’s best to have it done from Kigali as it becomes quite tricky exchanging currency; cheques, credit and debit cards away from the city. The commonly used cards are; American Express, Diners Club, Master Card and Visa cards. There are also several ATMs throughout the country which can be used for acquiring francs (the Rwandan currency) other than using the currency exchange companies.

Best time to visit

Visiting Rwanda can be done / enjoyed at any time of the year depending on individual taste and preference , however the best recommended times for visiting are within the dry seasons when there are no rains to distract the ongoing tourist activities like mountain gorilla trekking, forest nature walks among others.
Rainy seasons – Late March, April, May and November.

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Communication in Rwanda

Rwanda has a well-established infrastructure and communication network where from which ever part of the country you may be visiting, a well networked cell phone and wireless internet can be accessed and used for communication purposes. There are several internet service (Wi-Fi) that run throughout the country enabling tourists to easily connect to the rest of the world when visiting the country.

Health and Safety Considerations

Before traveling to Rwanda, it’s important to take health precautions:

• Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. A yellow fever certificate is required for entry.
• Malaria Prevention: While Kigali is malaria-free, other regions are at risk. Consider taking anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent.
• Travel Insurance: Always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential evacuation.

Navigating Transportation

Getting around Rwanda can be straightforward if you know your options:

• Public Transport: Buses and shared taxis are available, but they can be crowded and may not always adhere to schedules. For longer distances, consider using reputable bus companies like Rwanda Transport Company or Virgin Bus.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car with a driver is a common choice for visitors. It offers flexibility and safety while navigating Rwanda’s hilly terrain.
• Domestic Flights: For quick travel between major cities, domestic flights are available. RwandAir offers several routes that can save time.

Food and Drink

Rwandan cuisine is flavorful and diverse, with influences from various cultures. Here are some local dishes to try:

• Ugali: A staple made from maize flour, typically served with vegetables or meat.
• Isombe: A dish made from cassava leaves, often cooked with peanuts and served with rice or plantains.
• Brochettes: Grilled meat skewers, usually enjoyed with a side of fried plantains or vegetables.
• Rwandan Coffee: Rwanda is known for its high-quality coffee. Don’t miss the chance to taste locally grown varieties in cafes around the country.

 Responsible Tourism Practices

As a traveler, it’s important to be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities:

• Leave No Trace: Always follow the principles of responsible tourism by minimizing waste, not disturbing wildlife, and respecting natural habitats.
• Support Local Businesses: Purchase souvenirs from local artisans and dine at community-run restaurants to help sustain the local economy.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the social and environmental issues facing Rwanda to become a more informed and responsible traveler.

Respecting Local Culture and Traditions

Rwanda has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is important for a positive travel experience. Here are a few Rwanda cultural tips:

• Greetings Matter: Greeting locals with “Muraho” (hello) is appreciated. Learning a few basic Kinyarwanda phrases can go a long way in building rapport.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting rural areas and cultural sites, dress modestly to respect local customs, especially in religious settings.
• Participate in Community Activities: Engage with local communities through cultural tours or workshops. This is a great way to learn about Rwandan traditions and support local economies.