ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Travellers require a visa to visit Rwanda for business or tourism. They can obtain a visa free of charge upon arrival at Rwanda’s port of entry, including international airports and border crossings. They can also apply for a visa prior to travelling.

VISA INFORMATION

Passport valid for at least 6 months, completed visa application form, two passport-sized photos, signed letter explaining the purpose of travel, invitation letter or hotel booking confirmation, and proof of payment into the Embassy’s bank account.

R550 for single entry, R850 for multiple entry.

Same as tourist visa requirements.

Typically, three working days.

Visa is valid for the duration specified upon issuance.

Rwanda Embassy in Pretoria:

Address: 983 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia
Phone: +27 12 342 6536 / +27 76 723 5805
Email: ambapretoria@minaffet.gov.rw

Rwanda Embassy in South Africa’s visa page

WEATHER

Location: South of the equator in Central Africa.

Altitude: High altitude, resulting in a pleasant tropical highland climate.

Temperature: Average daily temperature in Kigali is about 21°C (70°F). Variations occur depending on altitude but are relatively stable month to month.

Rainy Seasons: Long rainy season (March to May) with heavy rain; shorter rainy season (October to November) with lighter rain.

Dry Seasons: Long dry season (June to mid-September) with moderate temperatures; short dry season (December to February) with light cloud cover.

Cloud Cover and Rainfall: Light cloud cover often during dry seasons; occasional light rain showers.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Country: Rwanda
Capital City: Kigali
International Airports: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Area: 26,338 square kilometres
Population: 13 million (2024 est.)
Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT, UTC+2)
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with significant Muslim and indigenous beliefs.
Language: Kinyarwanda (official), French (official), English (official), Swahili (widely spoken)
Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF)
Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD = 1,300 RWF (subject to change; check latest rates)
Credit Card Payment Availability: Widely accepted in major cities and hotels
ATM Accessibility: Available in major cities and towns
Dialing Code: +250

TRAVEL TIPS

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz.
Plug types C and J are used
Water: Tap water is generally not potable.
Bottled water is recommended
Business Hours: Typically, 08:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday
Banking Hours: Typically, 08:00 – 15:00, Monday to Friday
Photography Restrictions: Seek permission before photographing, especially in national parks and private properties.
Tipping: Not compulsory but appreciated; 10% is customary in restaurants.
Vaccination Requirements: Yellow fever vaccination required for those from endemic regions; other vaccinations may be recommended (consult a travel health professional).
Dress Code Restrictions: Modest attire appreciated; formal attire may be required for business events.
Peculiar Customs to Observe: Rwandans value politeness and respect; greetings are important.
Avoid public displays of affection.

FESTIVALS

  • Kwita Izina: Annual gorilla naming ceremony in Volcanoes National Park.
  • Kigali Up Festival: Music and cultural festival featuring local and international talent.
  • Umuganura: Harvest celebration and cultural event at the Royal Palace.
  • Rwandan Liberation Day: Celebrated on July 4th, marking the end of the genocide.
  • Kigali Peace Marathon: Held every May, featuring various marathon events.

MAP

“I fell in love with Rwanda the moment I saw those verdant, rolling hills rise up beneath the wings of the plane as we descended toward Kigali airport.”

– Naomi Benaron