Visas are required by British citizens. Single entry visas are available on arrival in Rwanda without difficulty. Single-entry visas (30 days) cost $30 (£20), while 90-day tourist visas cost $50, applicable to UK, EU and US passport holders. You can pay in cash (sterling, US dollars or Rwandan francs). Alternatively, visa can be applied for online prior to travel. Other nationals can obtain a visa at Rwandan missions overseas, at Kigali Airport or at land borders.

If travelling elsewhere in East Africa, the East Africa Tourist Visa is a multiple entry visa valid for 90 days to Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.

We recommend you double check visa requirements before travel as requirements can change.
Non-UK passport holders: please consult your embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest advice on visas and entry requirements.

When to Travel

Rwanda is near the Equator, and experiences relatively little variation in temperature between the seasons. Rainfall, however, does vary.

The rains typically fall from March to April and October to November, though this varies in different regions. In the mountains, it can rain at any time of year. Gorilla tracking can be more challenging in the rainy season, though many still choose to travel at this time of year as the cost of permits is lower.

It is considerably colder in the mountains than it is on the plains. If gorilla tracking or trekking, pack for cooler conditions.

Health & Immunisation

At the time of writing the recommended immunisations are: Typhoid and Polio (if not vaccinated within the last 10 years), Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Diptheria. All travellers who have travelled through or from countries which have been declared yellow fever infected areas MUST provide an international health certificate of vaccination for yellow fever upon arrival into Rwanda. Good protection against malaria is strongly recommended. Most importantly - insect bite precautions e.g. insect repellent containing DEET (Autan, Jungle Formula or Pure DEET).

Due to Ebola outbreaks in neighbouring countries, there are currently screening procedures in place at airports and overland border crossings. However medical requirements are subject to change and it is advisable to check with your local travel clinic before travelling. Strict observance of all medical requirements are a must and we strongly recommend that you obtain a medical kit to carry with you. It is also very important to remember not to swim in rivers or lakes without checking with your guide that it is safe to do so.

We must stress that our suggestions for medical protection are purely advisory and you should always consult your GP for the latest information.

Currency

Relative to other African countries, Rwanda is an expensive destination. For personal expenditure, cash is best; US$30-50 per day is a reasonable minimum. High denomination US Dollar bills (only post-2000) are usable. Bills should be in excellent condition with no stains or tears. Credit cards are accepted by a minority of outlets in Kigali and a few hotels/lodges up-country. Cash is the only form of payment accepted in most places. ATM machines are widely available in Kigali, but not elsewhere.

Tipping

There are no set guidelines for tips. Local culture believes the level of tips should be at the discretion of the client and any token of appreciation is gladly received.

These are our suggestions: for guides and gorilla tracking rangers, approx. $10 per day per client. For drivers, $5-10.