Volcanoes Region

There is so much to do in this beautiful country. Since we have limited space, here are some of our favorite things to do:

• Go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• Visit the genocide memorial in Kigali.
• Relax on the shores of Lake Kivu.
• Visit the Nyungwe Forest National Park.
• Go birdwatching in Akagera National Park.
• Learn about Rwanda's rich culture and history.

The best time to travel to Rwanda is during the dry season, which is from June to September. However, the country can be visited year-round, as the temperatures are mild and there is no extreme weather.

Rwanda is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. The country has made remarkable progress with low crime rates and a stable political environment and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. However, travellers should take common travel precautions. Follow these safety tips: 

• Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Respect wildlife, maintain a safe distance, and never provoke or feed them.
• Follow the guidelines from local authorities or your Viatu Travel Expert

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which are from mid-December to early February, and from June to September. During these times, the weather is mild and there is less rain, making the trekking conditions more comfortable. However, gorilla trekking can be done year-round, and the experience can be just as rewarding in the wet season.

Book your gorilla permits well in advance, as they are in high demand and limited in numbers. Just contact us if you are looking to experience the Gorillas up close.

Tipping is not expected in Rwanda, but it is appreciated. A small tip of a few hundred RWF is sufficient.

The cost of gorilla trekking in Rwanda is USD 1,500 per person per permit. This includes the park entrance fee, the services of a ranger, and the use of a community-based tourism enterprise.

The following health and safety precautions are recommended when traveling to Rwanda:

• Get vaccinated against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid.
• Take malaria medication.
• Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
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Consult with your GP before travellling to Rwanda.

Rwanda can be easily combined with other East African destinations, such as Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. These countries are all home to stunning wildlife and beautiful scenery.

You will need to bring comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a backpack. You should also bring a water bottle and snacks, as there are no facilities available in the park.

There are a few rules that you must follow when gorilla trekking:

• You must stay at least 7 meters away from the gorillas at all times.
• You must not make any loud noises or sudden movements.
• You must not touch the gorillas.
• You must use a camera with a silent shutter.
• You must follow the instructions of your ranger.

The main airport in Rwanda is Kigali International Airport. There are direct flights from many major cities in Europe and Africa. You can also get to Rwanda by road or train from neighboring countries.

The official currency of Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF), which is divided into 100 centimes. The best places to exchange foreign currency are banks, which can be found in major cities and towns. It is advisable to carry the local currency for smaller transactions. Most ATMs in Rwanda dispense local currency and accept international credit and debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard. However, many bespoke and luxury hotels charge in USD.

One or two weeks is a good amount of time to see the highlights of Rwanda, such as gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, visiting the genocide memorial in Kigali, and exploring Lake Kivu.