Rwanda Safari

Where is Rwanda?

Rwanda is located in the central-eastern part of Africa and is bordered by Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Despite being a landlocked country, it boasts numerous lakes and a temperate to subtropical climate. The country also features sweeping grasslands and mountainous landscapes, which has earned it the nickname “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Kigali, the nation’s sprawling capital, has great infrastructure and a vibrant nightlife scene.

HOW TO GET THERE/ EASE OF TRAVEL

Very few airlines have direct flights to Rwanda, so the best way is to fly into its neighbouring countries and then connect to the Gregoire Kayibanda Airport in Kigali. Kenya Airways, British Airways, and South African Airways are some of the most popular carriers. Once you land in Kigali, your local tour operator should take over the rest of your transport and logistics concerns. Then again, there are tour agencies that include the international trip in their packages.

Entry and Exit Requirements

• A valid passport
• Yellow fever certificate of vaccination is MANDATORY for travelers coming from Yellow Fever endemic countries within the last 24 days.
• Visas are not required for U.S. citizens entering Rwanda for less than 90 days of tourism.
• Travelers leaving Rwanda are expected to pay a departure tax of US$20.

POSSIBLE TOURISM BARRIERS

• Expensive gorilla trekking permits.
• Primate trekking permits are not flexible. If you want to change the date, you have to purchase a new one.
• Hit-or-miss chimpanzee tracking.
• Lack of budget accommodation options in the wild. Most lodges are available in town.

WHY RWANDA OVER THE OTHER AFRICAN SAFARI DESTINATIONS?

Though not quite as popular as the iconic safari destinations of Kenya and Tanzania, Rwanda offers some of the best primate trackings on earth. The best part is that you get to do so against a stunning backdrop of endless green hills and soaring mountainsides. Despite its turbulent past, Rwanda is a safe and friendly destination today – a glowing testament to the resilience of its people.

So if you seek a deeply enriching and tranquil safari, Rwanda parks offers an experience that is difficult to find anywhere else. There’s also a wide variety of accommodation options, whether for the new couple on their honeymoon or the family group looking for some unique bonding experiences. The country is relatively inexpensive to visit too, with an average of 50$ per day, which will cover your transport, meals, and lodging.

If you are after a beach vacation, the best time to go is from late January to the end of April when the weather is perfect for that golden glow.

BEST TIME TO GO

You can visit Rwanda and enjoy its best offerings year-round. However, the best time to visit for gorilla tracking is from mid-December to early February or June to September. What are you waiting for? Book your trip today!