Rwanda is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons. 

The long dry season from June to September is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially gorilla trekking, as trails are less slippery. 

The short dry season, from December to February, is also ideal for outdoor activities.

Yes, passports are required by all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended length of stay. 

Ensure that you have at least two consecutive blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport. 

We recommend three or even four blank pages if you are traveling through multiple countries. If there is insufficient space, entry could be denied.

It is important to check visa requirements with the Rwandan and Ugandan embassies, as these may vary by nationality. 

Where visas can be obtained at ports of entry, fees are payable in USD cash only. We recommend carrying small denominations, as change may not be available.

It’s recommended to obtain your visa before arrival, as there may be long queues at the airport.

Rwanda has a well-developed road network, and you can get around using rental cars, private taxis, or tour company vehicles. 

Public buses are also available for long-distance travel between cities. 

At Umutuzo Gendo, we offer guided tours with transportation, accommodation, attractions, and amenities included to ensure a comfortable and seamless travel experience.

Yes, Rwanda is ideally located for combining trips to neighboring countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). 

Many travelers choose to visit Uganda for additional gorilla trekking or head to Tanzania for a Serengeti safari. 

Rwanda is part of the East African Tourist Visa, which allows travelers to visit Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya with a single visa.  

Gorilla trekking is a unique experience where visitors hike through Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. 

To book a permit, you can go through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a licensed tour operator like Umutuzo Gendo. 

Permits cost $1,500 per person, and it’s recommended to book in advance due to limited availability.

Yes, Rwanda's Akagera National Park is home to the "Big Five": lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. 

The park offers game drives, boat safaris, and bird-watching experiences. 

Akagera is a conservation success story, with recent reintroductions restoring the Big Five to the park.

In addition to gorilla trekking, don't miss:

1. • Akagera National Park: Experience safaris and see the "Big Five" (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo).
   • Nyungwe Forest National Park: Known for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, and beautiful forest hikes.
   • Lake Kivu: A scenic lake with options for boating, kayaking, and relaxation.
   • Kigali Genocide Memorial: A powerful site that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide and educates visitors about Rwanda’s history and resilience.
   • Cultural Tours: Visit traditional Rwandan villages and learn about local crafts, dances, and way of life.

Yes, Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. The government prioritizes security, and crime rates are low, especially in major cities like Kigali. 

Travelers should still take common-sense precautions, but overall, Rwanda is a peaceful and welcoming destination for tourists.

Consult your physician before traveling to Africa for advice on malaria precautions. Rwanda and Uganda fall into the yellow fever region; therefore, a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory at least 10 days before travel. Note that your home country or other African countries may deny re-entry without this vaccination after visiting a yellow fever area.

Bring enough supply of any special medications for the duration of your visit.

Visitors to Rwanda are recommended to have vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. 

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. 

Malaria prophylaxis is also advised, especially if you’re visiting lowland areas.

It is recommended to drink bottled or filtered water in Rwanda. Tap water is generally not considered safe for drinking, though it’s fine for brushing teeth and showering. Bottled water is readily available at hotels, restaurants, and stores.

Rwanda has a relatively conservative dress code, especially in rural areas. It’s advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting villages or religious sites. 

Casual and comfortable clothing is suitable for day-to-day activities, but avoid overly revealing outfits.

Rwandan cuisine is diverse and includes dishes like Ugali (a maize-based dish), Isombe (cassava leaves cooked with groundnut sauce), and grilled meats. 

Kigali has a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisines. Vegetarians will also find plenty of options.

Yes, English is one of Rwanda's official languages and is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and within the tourism industry. 

French and Kinyarwanda are also commonly spoken, with Kiswahili gaining popularity.

The currency used in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Major hotels, restaurants, and some stores accept credit cards, especially in Kigali. 

However, for small purchases, particularly in rural areas, it’s advisable to carry cash. ATMs are widely available in Kigali and other major towns.