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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
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