Rwanda’s elevation gives it a pleasant, temperate climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 65–80°F (18–27°C). The climate is comfortable for trekking and outdoor activities, and the landscape remains remarkably green throughout the year.Rwanda can be visited year-round, although rainfall affects trekking and road conditions.Dry seasons | June–September and December–FebruaryGenerally the easiest conditions for trekking, with less rain and clearer views.Green seasons | March–May and October–NovemberLush landscapes, fewer visitors and often lower accommodation rates. Rainfall is more frequent, and trekking trails can be muddy.A Note About April: Beginning April 7 each year, Rwanda observes Kwibuka, the national period of remembrance for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Commemorative events are held throughout the country during that week, and some businesses and activities may be affected. It is a solemn and important period in Rwanda, and visits to genocide memorials require particular sensitivity. We can advise on appropriate scheduling and activities during this time.

Rwanda’s compact size makes it possible to experience a great deal without spending days in transit. A rewarding trip can be planned for almost any length of stay, with or without gorilla trekking.For travelers who want to experience the country more fully, 10–14 days allows time for gorilla trekking, Nyungwe rainforest, an Akagera safari, Lake Kivu and Kigali.For travelers coming primarily to see the mountain gorillas, we recommend a minimum of 4 days / 3 nights, beginning and ending in Kigali.

Rwanda is unusually easy to explore overland. Major destinations are connected by good paved roads, distances are relatively manageable, and the journeys themselves offer beautiful views of the countryside.RwandaQuest travelers normally travel by private vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide throughout their journey.Typical driving times:Kigali–Volcanoes National Park: 2–3 hoursKigali–Akagera National Park: 2–3 hoursKigali–Nyungwe National Park: 5–6 hours. This can become an enjoyable travel day, with stops such as the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza or the Ethnographic Museum in Huye.Scheduled domestic flights between Kigali and Kamembe provide another option for reaching southwestern Rwanda, including Nyungwe and Lake Kivu. Private helicopter transfers and scenic flights can also be arranged for selected itineraries.

Rwanda offers visas on arrival to citizens of all countries, although requirements and fees vary by nationality and can change. Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry.The East Africa Tourist Visa allows eligible travelers to visit Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda on a single visa. It does not include Tanzania.We recommend checking current requirements before travel and can advise on the appropriate visa for your itinerary.

Travelers should consult their physician or a travel-health specialist before departure for current vaccination and malaria recommendations.A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required when arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.Malaria risk varies by location and elevation. Travelers should seek medical advice about appropriate precautions and any recommended prophylaxis for their itinerary.Every RwandaQuest journey includes emergency medical evacuation coverage, providing assistance and evacuation should a serious medical emergency occur in a remote area.

The local currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, lodges and major establishments, and ATMs are available in Kigali and larger towns.It is useful to carry some Rwandan francs for gratuities, markets, small purchases and places where cards may not be accepted. US dollars are also accepted by many tourism establishments, although local currency is generally more useful for everyday purchases.

Kinyarwanda, English, French and Kiswahili are Rwanda’s official languages. English is widely used in the tourism industry, and RwandaQuest driver-guides are English-speaking.

Mobile coverage is good across much of Rwanda, and Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and lodges, although connections may be slower in remote areas.Local SIM cards are inexpensive and readily available for travelers who would like mobile data during their stay.

Rwanda uses 230V, 50Hz electricity, principally with Type C and Type J plugs. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter.Most phones, tablets and laptops are dual-voltage and require only an adapter. Travelers bringing single-voltage appliances should check whether they also need a voltage converter.

Dress in Rwanda tends to be neat and relatively modest. Comfortable layers work well for the changing temperatures between Kigali, the mountains and lower-elevation areas.For general travel: lightweight layers, comfortable walking shoes, a smart-casual outfit for dining in Kigali, swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medications and copies of important travel documents.For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking: broken-in hiking shoes or boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, waterproof jacket, gardening or trekking gloves, long socks, insect repellent, a small daypack, reusable water bottle, hat and sun protection.For memorial and cultural visits: modest clothing, comfortable shoes and sufficient time to visit without rushing.