Rwanda
East Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Kigali
- Currency
- Rwandan Franc (RWF FRw)
- Language
- Kinyarwanda, English, French and Swahili (official)
- Timezone
- UTC+2
- Safety rating
- 7.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The drier seasons from June to September and December to February are best for gorilla trekking and travel.
Overview
The 'Land of a Thousand Hills' offers world-famous mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and Big Five game in rejuvenated Akagera. Kigali is remarkably clean, safe and forward-looking, and the country's reconciliation story since 1994 is deeply moving. It blends premium wildlife with stunning scenery.
Visa requirements
Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or via e-visa, and Rwanda is part of the East Africa single tourist visa scheme.
Safety information
Rwanda is one of Africa's cleanest, safest and most orderly countries, with low crime in Kigali. Avoid the volatile border area with the DRC, and respect local laws, which are strictly enforced.
Travel tips
Cards and mobile money are widely used in Kigali, but carry francs for rural areas. English is widespread, and plastic bags are banned, so leave them at home. Buy an MTN or Airtel SIM, and book gorilla permits far in advance as they are limited and pricey.