The Rwandan Pocket Guide
Written by Courtney Drysdale
Rwanda is a small landlocked country, only 26,338 km², located in Central Africa’s Great Rift Valley, just south of the equator. Known as the valley of a thousand hills, this hilly country is a mixture of plains, volcanoes, and forests that creep up sweeping mountains full of exciting adventure activities and unique wildlife. Rwanda has done an excellent job of conserving both its cultural heritage and wild spaces, making it a top choice for conscious travellers. Read on to find out what makes Rwanda such a special and beloved travel destination.
Rwanda at a Glance
A Rwanda experience can be broken up into a few key parts: a vibrant culture, truly life-changing wildlife experiences — including gorilla trekking and a chance to see the Big 5 — and a dramatic landscape bursting with life. Each has its own distinctions that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Population
With a population size of a little over 13 million people, Rwanda is a relatively well-populated country. The main hubs include Kigali, situated at the centre of the country, and Musanze in the northwest of the country.
History
Often referred to as ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills’ Rwanda has a rich cultural history that dates back approximately 10.000 years ago to the Neolithic period. The Kingdom of Rwanda was established in the 1500s until colonisation by the Germans in 1899 and then the Belgians after WW1. In 1962, Rwanda gained its independence, however, the country experienced inter-border violence, majorly between the ethnic groups of the Tutsi and the Hutus. In 1994, this violence came to a head and resulted in the Rwandan Genocide, during which roughly 800.000 people were murdered over the shockingly short span of about 100 days. Most were civilians and belonged to the Tutsi group. However, despite such an indescribable and terrible event, Rwanda has adapted itself into a multicultural and peaceful nation, strongly adhering to past events and remembrance.
Today, Rwanda is regarded as a progressive African nation, with more women in their government than anywhere else. Rwanda is also considered Africa’s cleanest country with a nationwide initiative to clean up one's own area on the last Saturday of every month, a practice and national holiday is known as Umuganda.
People & Culture
There are 3 main ethnic groups in Rwanda: Hutus, Tutsis, and Twa (Batwa). The Hutus make up the majority of the population at about 84%, followed by the Tutsis at 15% and the Twa (Batwa) at a tiny 0.3%. Rwanda has a rich cultural history; locations such as Nyanza is the home to the reconstructed traditional beehive-shaped King’s Palace and the revered royal herd of long-horned Ankole cattle, who as per ritual, are sung to by their keepers. Nearby Huye is also home to the Ethnographic museum, which houses ancient artefacts and pieces of crucial history that help keep alive Rwandans’ link to their ancestors and traditions. One such example is documentation of the Amasunzu hairstyles typical of noble people of old. Other exceptional cultural practices in Rwanda include the above-mentioned Umuganda, distinctive cow dung architectural design and paintings called Imigongo (which can be found largely in the village of Nyakarambi close to the border with Tanzania), as well as Intore dancing and a range of beautiful artisanal crafts. Lastly, the capital city, Kigali, is home to an extensive cultural village and the sobering but deeply moving Kigali Genocide Memorial, both of which are considered a must-visit.
Languages
Approximately 98% of the population speaks the Bantu language, Kinyarwanda. However, many people also speak French, English and Swahili. Below are some useful phrases to keep in your back pocket on your travels:
Hello! (informal) – Bite
How are you? – Amakuru (Response: Ni meza)
My name is… – Nitwa…
Thank you – Murakoze
Goodbye – Murabeho
Can you call for a police officer? – Urashobora guhamagara umupolisi?
Is there a doctor nearby? – Hafi aho hari umuganga?
Does anyone here speak English? – Hano hari umuntu uvuga icyongereza?
How do I get to …? – Nigute nagera kuri …?
Thank you for your help, goodbye – Urakoze kubufasha bwawe, muraho
Much appreciated, goodbye – murakoze cyane, muraho
The lay of the land
Settled just south of the equator, Rwanda is bordered by Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. The country lies in the heart of the Albertine Rift and is largely considered Africa’s most biodiverse region. Rwanda’s landscapes range from lowland plains and wetlands in the eastern and central sections of the country to dramatic rolling green hills that sweep into forested mountains across its borders from northwest to southeast. Rwanda also boasts large lakes that make up part of the Great Lakes system. A little over 10% of Rwanda’s land is protected and the country boasts a well-maintained selection of national parks, reserves, and wetlands that are considered globally important and forests of sacred cultural importance.
Forests and Mountains
Roughly 19% of Rwanda is made up of mountainous forests, classified as Afro-montane ecosystems that feature sweeping lowland forests, mountain rainforests, and woodlands. These forests are a safe haven to 97 mammal species (making up 40% of the entire continent's mammal species) and include rare and unique creatures, such as the mountain gorilla, L’Hoest Monkey or mountain monkey, and the giant pangolin.
Wetlands
Rwanda boasts an impressive number of wetlands, which are crucial for maintaining water flow and water filtration. In recent years, the country has taken great steps to protect these precious natural resources. One success story includes the Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park in Kigali, which through dedicated efforts has revitalised this previously degraded wetland that is now again home to 62 plant species and more than 100 bird species.
Savannah
Safari enthusiasts can seek out the Big 5 and other plains game like zebras and giraffes in the savannah grasslands of Akagera National Park. This park is the only protected savannah region in Rwanda, making it the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in the country.
Lakes
Rwanda is home to tremendous freshwater lakes – 101 to be exact – that feed into 6.400 km of rivers and various wetlands. Lake Kivu, which is one of Africa’s Great Lakes, is a popular travel destination with breathtaking vistas and a range of exciting activities. Lake Ihema, the second-largest lake in the country, can be sought out on a visit to Akagera National Park.
Wildlife and safari
Animals
Rwanda is home to 151 mammals, around 15 of which are primates and include mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. An opportunity to see gorillas is by far one of the most incredible experiences a person could wish for. Found in Volcanoes National Park, these precious creatures are both revered and protected, resulting in thriving and respected populations. You can also seek out the Big 5 in Akagera National Park, which also boasts plains game such as topi and defassa waterbuck, along with wonderful water creatures such as hippos and crocodiles.
Plants
Rwanda has a truly incredible range of biodiversity, which spans grasses, magnificent trees, rainforests, meadows, bushveld, and a range of aquatic vegetation – amassing to a tremendous 2.150 species of plants with more being discovered all the time. Some standout species include Ficus thonningii, Verminia amygdalina, and Dracaena afromontana, as well as a range of acacia and orchids.
Birdlife
Rwanda is famous for its birdlife and is home to around 700 species, that include Lake Victoria Basin endemics along with other endangered species such as the Grauer’s rush warbler and the shoebill. Some great birding spots include Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park. Stand-out species include the red-faced barbet, Albertine owlets, mountain masked apalis and Rwenzori turacos.
Climate and when to visit
Rwanda’s subtropical highland climate results in 2 rainy seasons and 2 dry seasons. The best time to travel to Rwanda is during the long dry season from June to September and the shorter one in January. These times of the year are marked by pleasant and mild temperatures and low rainfall.
The rainy seasons are defined by hot and humid temperatures, as well as significant rainfall. Although this results in beautiful, lush environments, some areas can become more challenging to access. The long rainy season occurs between February and May and is known locally as Itumba, this is when most rainfall occurs and one can likely expect light, sporadic showers to heavy downpours daily, with areas around Lake Kivu and Bugarama plains the most affected, as well as increased humidity and overcast skies. The short rainy season occurs between October and December, locally known as Umuhindo, does have slightly less overall rainfall, but still expect daily doses of precipitation in either downpours or short, sporadic rainfall, humidity and overcast skies.
Top attractions
Akagera National Park
When you think of Rwanda, you might not immediately think of a Big 5 safari experience. However, let us give you the good news! Thanks to extensive conservation efforts and reintroducing black and white rhinos, as well as lions to the area, this beautiful park is the perfect place to get your safari fix. Spanning over 1.000 km sq, this diverse park sports the largest protected wetland in central Africa, Lake Ihema, savannahs and rolling green highlands.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
A 1.000 km sq area of rainforest, this park boasts a milieu of both primate and bird species, as well as a slew of other mammals, amphibians and reptiles. This park is famous for its chimpanzee trekking and spotting the endemic L’Hoest monkey and is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. Visitors can explore the area via hikes and a canopy walk that trails above the massive trees on a suspension bridge.
Volcanoes National Park
This incredible park spans a dramatic mountain range and is home to one of the world’s most precious animals, the mountain gorilla. Named after a backbone of dormant volcanoes that jut from the lush ground known as the Virunga Massif, this park also holds 200 species of colourful birds, the golden monkey and plenty of other incredible species. One of the park's hidden gems is Buhanga Eco Park, which was the sacred coronation site of Rwandan Kings. Another significant site is the Musanze Caves, which were formed by a volcanic eruption around 62 million years ago.
Gishwati Mukura National Park
This park consists of 2 forests, the Gishwati and Mukura, and rests on a ridge that divides the Congo and Nile water catchment areas. The area is home to a small group of chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys and L’Hoest Monkeys. Visitors can explore the area on breathtaking hikes, chimpanzee tracking, waterfall visits and bird-watching tours. Additionally, visitors can also visit the local surrounding villages to experience indigenous customs and practices that range from tea plantation tours to beekeeping and learning about traditional medicinal plants.
Lake Kivu
This colossal lake spans a tremendous area of 2.700 km sq and is situated in Africa’s Great Rift Valley, flanked by lush mountains. As a part of Africa’s Great Lakes system, Lake Kivu is a must-visit destination that boasts sandy beaches and multiple secluded islands dotted amongst it’s clear fresh waters. Lake Kivu is also renowned as a birding hotspot, featuring grey African parrots, crowned eagles, bronze sunbirds, long-tailed cormorants and many more. Visitors can relax on splendid beaches and adventure activities ranging from paddleboarding to hiking and biking.
Coffee Plantations
Spread across Rwanda are a range of coffee growers in the form of co-operatives and washing stations. Some great areas to check out are around Lake Kivu in Gisenyi. Another place to visit to see plantations are Kinunu washing station, which is situated near the shores of Lake Kivu and makes for a fantastic day out as it is accessible by bicycle or boat and can be combined with a beautiful hike or bike ride along the Congo Nile Trail. Ingoboka is located between Gisenyi and Karongi, visitors can paddle over from the mainland and sample their renowned stock of Arabica. KZ Noir sources coffee from multiple local farmers and is also situated along Lake Kivu’s northern shores. Lodges will often be able to organise specialised tours for visitors, so check with us when you book to make this a part of your Rwanda adventure.
Tea Plantations
Another must-visit for all the tea lovers out there is the fantastic tea plantations located in gorgeous landscapes near Nyungwe National Park. Top choices include Gisovu Tea, which sits up against the ancient forest. The estate offers day tours that include a cupping ceremony and mountain bike trails through the grounds. Another great spot to visit, Gisakura Tea sits on the western edge of Nygungwe Forest National Park. Visitors can go on tours across gorgeous grounds and enjoy tastings of some of the world’s finest teas.
Accommodation
Here are a few of our favourite stays in Rwanda…
Bisate Lodge
Bisate Lodge by Wilderness Safaris sits in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and features 6 unique eco villas overlooking the Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno volcanoes. This luxury lodge offers gorilla tracking, forest walks with expert guides, and visits to local communities. With a strong focus on conservation, Bisate facilitates a reforestation program that helps plant indigenous trees in the area.
Sabyinyo Lodge
Sabyinyo by Wilderness Safaris offers a classically decorated, luxury escape to Volcanoes National Park. This community-owned lodge offers exceptional gorilla tracking and community-based activities, as well as a fantastic dining experience with produce sourced from the on-site garden. The area is also a haven for a range of unique and rare species such as the Rwenzori turaco and Rwenzori sun squirrel.
Magashi Camp
Magashi Camp by Wilderness Safaris rests in the Akagera National Park, on the shores of Lake Rwanyankazinga. A nod to a bygone era, this luxury tented camp sits in a private concession and features sightings of the Big 5, giraffes, hippos and plenty of birds.
Kwitonda Lodge
Kwitonda Lodge by Singita is a luxurious eco-escape set in the Volcanoes National Park. Kwitonda offers unforgettable dining experiences, luxurious accommodations and the chance to see the area’s famous mountain gorillas. Guests can also enjoy wine tasting, explore Kwitonda Nursery, visit local markets and take a cooking class.
The Retreat
The Retreat by Heaven sits in the bustling and vibrant capital city of Kigali. This luxurious boutique hotel offers a chance to explore the city, enjoy a fusion cuisine, check out a banana beer-making workshop, go on a nature walk, or just relax and prepare for your adventure through Rwanda.
Need to know
Visas & passports
All visitors entering Rwanda must carry a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. The passport must also have a full page available for visa endorsements. You can apply for a visa on arrival and find more information about the process here. There is also a joint visa available for those who wish to also visit Kenya and Uganda on their trip. The 30-day tourist visas are free and can be granted on arrival to all members of the Commonwealth, African Union and Francophonie. For more information on exact visa requirements, visit the government website of the Rwandan High Commission.
Time Zone
Rwanda’s time zone falls under Central African Time or CAT (GMT+2).
Tipping Culture
Tipping is not compulsory in Rwanda, but it is a meaningful way to show your appreciation for great service, especially when it comes to specialised trackers such as those who will take you to see the magnificent gorillas. In Rwanda, a general rule of thumb is to give about 10% gratuity, but this is up to your discretion. When it comes to gorilla trackers or lodge staff, tips can be given in both local and foreign currency such as Euros, US dollars, and Pound Sterlings. In more rural areas, it is best to give a tip in the local currency. If you are in a group, you can pool tips together and present them to be divided amongst the staff to help with fairness and even distribution. It is usually best to do so at the end of your stay.
Cellular and telecommunication
The dialling code for Rwanda is +250. It is easy to get a sim card and the main service provider is MTN and the next largest is Tigo. The entire country has good cellular coverage with access to 4G in most cities.
Currency
The currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF) and the subdivided 100 Centime is equivalent to 1 Franc.
Exchange
Foreign currency, such as Euros, British pounds and US Dollars can be changed at airports, bureaux de change and banks in major cities like Kigali.
Cash and card
Cards are accepted at most establishments in Kigali, this is always where most of the ATMs are found. However, many rural areas will only accept cash, so it is advisable to keep cash on you, as well as an emergency supply.
Plugs
Most plugs in Rwanda are round. Type C plugs (round with 2 pins) and type J plugs (round with 3 pins close together) are the most common.
Water
It is advisable to not drink tap water during your stay in Rwanda. Rather stick to bottled water — use it to also brush your teeth as an extra precaution — fruit juices and other bottled or canned beverages.
Ease of travel
Getting around by car
Rwanda has some good Uber alternatives to use in cities like Kigali, such as SafeMotos and Yego Moto. To drive in Rwanda you will require both your own driving licence from your country, along with an international driver’s permit. Rwanda has been listed as the second safest country in Africa and is a great place to self-drive around. You can rent cars from multiple companies based out of Kigali — these range from both local services to global brands like Europcar.
Drive
Rwanda has one of the most extensive road systems in the area. With only about 20% of roads paved in the country, roads to more remote locations, including the national parks, can get muddy during the rainy season and driving on unpaved roads may require a 4x4 vehicle. Generally, you can access most of the country in a car without 4x4, but do confirm with us beforehand. Kigali has a good road system and Rwandans are known for their relaxed demeanour while driving. Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road in Rwanda and drivers pay close attention to the speed limits in the country. In rural areas, this limit is usually 60 km/h. Be vigilant of people and animals when driving through this small, but densely populated country. It is not advised to drive alone or unprepared (without a local guide) near the Congo border due to unrest in the area. The alcohol limit for drinking and driving is 0.08%, so it is best to avoid drinking if you need to drive. It is quite easy to organise a private vehicle with a driver at your accommodation, a car rental service or through Rent a Driver Rwanda, which can usually cost about USD $50 per day.
Fly
RwandAir flies directly into Rwanda from overseas. Flights will almost always land at Kigali International Airport (KGL), located just outside of the capital. On these flights, travellers are allowed to travel with 10 kgs of hand luggage, 7 kg if you are flying in from Johannesburg. Those flying economy class and premium economy can bring 2 bags of 23kg each. In business class, passengers are allowed to bring 3 bags of 23 kg each. Internal charters can be organised through Akagera Aviation, and lodges will also often organise internal transfers for guests.
In Case of an Emergency
Kigali has some good hospitals, including King Faisal Hospital, however, in extreme cases one may need to be evacuated by air to Kenya or South Africa. In Rwanda, it is a legal obligation to have health insurance, so make sure to organise that well before you travel. In the event of a remote emergency, Akagera Aviation offers remote charters. Consider contacting them for specific requirements through their website before your trip. Rwanda is also considered safe for tourists to visit, although visitors can sometimes experience some petty crime. Please save the following emergency contact numbers on your cell phone:
Emergency numbers:
112: Emergency and ambulance
113: Traffic accidents
111: Fire brigade
3511: Abuse by a police officer
3512: Gender-based violence helpline
Medication
Malaria can be found throughout Rwanda year-round. Please consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication approximately 1 month before you travel. If you require specialised or prescription medication, definitely bring it with you. Most lodges and camps will also have a first aid kit. The North Kivu Region of the Congo that borders Rwanda and Uganda had an Ebola outbreak in December 2021. So, as an extra precaution, familiarise yourself with the symptoms listed on the World Health Organisations website.
Vaccinations
If you have travelled through a country with a risk of yellow fever, you will need to get a vaccination. Check the list of relevant countries listed by the World Health Organisation. When gorilla trekking, you may be asked to do a covid test and may not be allowed to trek if you are ill. This is to protect the gorillas, who are highly susceptible to human illnesses, including Covid, ebola and other viruses.
Essential items
Rwanda is known for its beautiful montane forests, and what sustains its verdant landscapes is year-round rain. So, make sure to pack a raincoat and if you are going on a gorilla trek, good waterproof clothing and hiking boots. In the summer months, Rwanda can get quite hot and humid, so loose-fitting clothes and airy materials are a must. Pack neutral colours for safaris and dark neutrals for gorilla trekking. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen and swimming attire for balmy days.
Don’t wear blue in Akagera National Park, as the colour can attract tsetse flies. Although Rwanda has made great leaps at eradicating sleeping sickness as a public health issue, they are still very annoying and it’s better to be safe. You can read more about it here.
Rwanda has banned plastic bags since 2008, so you won’t find any in the country and are advised against bringing any in with you.
Eating in public is considered impolite in Rwandan culture, so abstain from such practices. This means not eating in the street but rather in the privacy of restaurants or your hotel room.
From gorillas to mountains, great lakes and safari escapes – Rwanda is a truly unique and unforgettable travel destination. To explore more of this wonderful country, pop over to Viatu to plan your next sustainable Rwandan adventure.
