Welcome to Rwanda 😊
Rwanda, also known as the land of a thousand hills, is a small landlocked country in East Africa. With its beautiful green hills, stunning lakes, and friendly people, Rwanda has become a popular destination for travelers seeking to experience Africa's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Despite suffering a tragic past, Rwanda has successfully rebuilt itself into a peaceful and prosperous nation, known for its conservation efforts to protect mountain gorillas and other endangered wildlife. Visitors to Rwanda can explore its vibrant capital city Kigali, trek through the lush rainforests of Volcanoes National Park, or take a boat tour of picturesque Lake Kivu. Rwanda truly offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Quick Facts About Rwanda
- Currency: Rwandan franc
- Population: 12.21 million
- Languages: Kinyarwanda,French,English
Money and Finances
Rwandan franc (RWF). Denominations include coins in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 francs. Notes come in 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 francs.
ATM Network
ATMs can be found in major cities and towns, but may not be readily available in rural areas. It is recommended to bring enough cash when visiting remote areas.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are not widely accepted in Rwanda, especially outside of major hotels and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are more likely to be accepted than AMEX.
Internet and Phones
In Rwanda, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is around 7 Mbps. There is no significant government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
MTN Rwanda and Airtel are the main telco companies in Rwanda. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 5,000 Rwandan Francs (roughly $5.50 USD) per month. There may be sim compatibility issues, so it is recommended to check with your provider before traveling.
Dialling to Rwanda
To call Rwanda from another country, dial +250 followed by the local number. Within Rwanda, the area codes used when dialing depend on the city or district. For example, Kigali has the area code 252.
Transport Around Rwanda
Air Travel
Rwanda has one major international airport, Kigali International Airport, located in the capital city of Kigali.
Train Travel
There is currently no inter-city train network in Rwanda.
Metro / Local Trains
There is no local train or metro system in Rwanda's major cities.
Buses
Rwanda has a bus network operated by several companies, including Volcano Express, Onatracom, and Trinity Bus. Ticket prices and journey times vary depending on the route and distance, but a typical fare from Kigali to Gisenyi costs around 3,000 RWF (3 USD) and takes about 3-4 hours.
Rideshare
There are several rideshare companies operating in Rwanda, including SafeMotos and Yego Moto. Prices for a typical journey in Kigali range from 500 to 1,000 RWF (0.50 to 1 USD), depending on the distance.
Driving by Car
Driving in Rwanda can be challenging due to poor road conditions, limited signage, and unpredictable driving behavior. The speed limit on highways is 60 km/h (37 mph), and the country uses right-hand drive. However, visitors should note that obtaining a local driving permit is required to legally drive in the country.
Local Customs
In Rwanda, tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. Locals greet each other with a handshake. It is common for men to address each other as 'Mister' followed by the first name, while women may be addressed as 'Madam' or 'Miss' followed by the first name. It is polite to speak softly and avoid confrontational language when speaking with strangers.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Rwanda has a universal healthcare system, where healthcare is provided to all citizens for free or at low cost. Private healthcare and insurance are also available for those who can afford it. Visiting a doctor in Rwanda can range from $10-$50 depending on the type of consultation.
COVID Situation
Rwanda implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including a nationwide lockdown and mandatory mask-wearing. As of now, Rwanda has reported a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Common Health Risks
Malaria is a common health risk in Rwanda, especially during the rainy season. Travelers are advised to take preventative measures such as taking anti-malaria medication and using mosquito repellent. Other common health risks in Rwanda include diarrheal diseases, typhoid, and hepatitis A.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted in Rwanda, but there are restrictions on its sale and consumption in public places. The minimum legal age for alcohol consumption is 18 years old.
Recreational Drugs
The use and possession of recreational drugs such as cannabis is illegal in Rwanda, and can result in imprisonment and/or fines. The country has strict drug laws and offenders are likely to face severe penalties.
Pre-Marital Relationships
In Rwanda, pre-marital relationships are not legally recognized and can result in fines or imprisonment.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Homosexuality is illegal in Rwanda and can result in imprisonment. Same-sex relationships are not recognized and LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination and harassment.
Firearms / Guns
Gun ownership is highly regulated in Rwanda and requires a permit from the government. The use of firearms is strictly controlled and offenders can face severe penalties including imprisonment.