Rwanda is among a few African states that have continuously kept on transforming time and again. Today, this country has positioned itself as an eco-friendly, clean and markets itself as the luxury gorilla safari destination with first-class safari lodges. For any plans to visit this incredible landlocked country, we have provided some of the travel tips which we feel are of great significance to you.
Why do you need to visit Rwanda?
When it comes to safaris, Rwanda isn’t only popular for its mysterious and undulating landscape characterized by a thousand hills that make it a true land of a thousand but also a number of incredible touristic areas for you to explore. It boasts of its four incredible protected areas that include Volcanoes National Park in the northwest, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Akagera National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park. Besides, it is popular as land o eternal spring and of recent, it was dumbed remarkable Rwanda and comes with its national carrier-RwandAir which travels beyond Africa.
What to do and see on Rwanda safari?
Being one of Africa’s magnificent safari destination, visitors on safari to this country have a great opportunity to enjoy a number of amazing activities and also explore many attractions. The notable ones include exploring more about the rare mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, visiting the genocide memorial sites such as Gisozi, Bisesero, Nyamata and Ntarama churches among others, cultural encounters especially with the Intore dancers that reward you with authentic African experiences. Other attractions and activities to explore in this magical country include chimpanzee and other primates tracking, canopy walk in Nyungwe national park, birding and other wildlife safaris in Akagera national park and many more.
When to visit Rwanda?
Rwanda is an all year round destination but what is important is for you to take note of its seasonality. It experiences 2 (two) dry and wet seasons with a long wet season starting from March to May and the short one from Mid-September to November. This season is always characterized with much rain and it is normally challenging for one, for instance, to embark on gorilla adventure as habitat tends to be slippery and muddy. The dry season, on the other hand, begins from June to September and from December to February.
Is it safe to visit Rwanda for a safari?
Rwanda like any country is not a hundred per cent safe however, it is one of the secure and stable states in Africa. However, safety starts with you first and don’t take things for granted. For more details, visit the embassy and find out the current security in this country before embarking on your actual safari in Rwanda.
Health advice
When you think of what to eat or where to eat out from Rwanda, there are a number of good restaurants and hotels for you find something to eat and avoid street food otherwise you will get stomach upset which may make you not to enjoy your safari in Rwanda.
Money usage in Rwanda
Rwanda like most African states is largely a cash-based economy and Rwanda franc. However, other currencies are also acceptable for instance, the US dollar, pound and credit card and master card, as well as travellers’ cheques usage, is limited. There are many ATM machines for you to withdraw your cash.
Rwanda visa
Visas are some of the key things you need while on safari to Rwanda and you can obtain one online with the Rwanda Immigration or at the embassy of Rwanda in your respective country. There is also tourist visa for East Africa that allows you to visit at least two of the East African Community member states.
Tipping
Tipping on a safari in Rwanda is not a must thing to do but it is ideally one way that you can show kind of appreciation for the service offered. You may not see the impact your tip will come with but to that particular person you give it to, a great change is made for him or her and the family at home. Note that most of these workers, for instance, the waitresses, waiters, drivers, guides are paid less and with a tip they can be in a position to meet basic needs back at home without necessarily waiting to be paid at the end of the month.
Mobile cell phones
There is excellent cell phone network in Rwanda and you can also make international calls. Most importantly, you can also get local SIM Card to use to avoid network problem. However, there are also many internet cafes in Kigali and you can access Wi-Fi at the hotel.
Electrical current and plugs
Rwanda’s voltage is 230 volts and European type of plug is the best. You will also need a converter plug which matches with your appliances.
Where to go for a safari in Rwanda?
Rwanda has only four national parks where most safaris are conducted and they include Volcanoes National Park which is popular for mountain gorilla trekking, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking, Akagera National Park for wildlife viewing, Gishwati-Mukura National Park as well as many historical and cultural sites.
Packing list
For gorilla trekking in Rwanda for instance, you need waterproof hiking boots, day pack, water, energy-giving snacks, long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, gorilla permit which you can obtain at $1500 through Rwanda Development Board or local tour operator, hat, sunscreen, first aid kit, camera, walking stick which you can get at the park headquarters.
