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FAQs

Government of Rwanda Declaration on the efforts to solve the conflict in eastern DRC

RWANDA & D.R.C resolved that the root cause of the conflict is the Ex-FAR

FAQs

General Information

01 : Which month is the best season to travel in Rwanda?
It depends on what activities you plan on carrying out whilst in Rwanda. The long dry season, from June to September is the best time for tracking gorillas in the Volcanoes Park and hiking in Nyungwe Forest, as the ground is dry. Whereas the wet season, February – June (and a shorter season September-December) is best for tracking chimps in Nyungwe and the scenery is greener in addition the sky is less hazy.
The average temperature in Rwanda is 24.6 – 27.6 °C, the hottest months being August and September.

02 : Please advise on what to wear in Rwanda.
Rwanda has no strict dress code on what to wear, although women travelers are advised to dress sensibly. In business areas, people tend to dress smartly. Cotton clothing is the most comfortable during the day, as it gets quite hot, but the nights tend to be chilly, so a heavy sweater and boots are essential. For gorilla tracking, warm clothing is required as well as walking/hiking boots, a hat and lightweight parka or raincoat.

03 : How about internet facilities in Rwanda?
Most mid-range and upward hotels have internet services that can be used. In Kigali, there are a number of fast, reliable internet facilities. Outside of Kigali, however, servers can be slow and subject to breakdowns.

04 : How many watts is the voltage and what type of socket can be used in Rwanda?
230/240 volts at 50Hz. Type of socket is the 2-pin socket.

Information on National Parks

01 : Do tourists need to make a reservation for Mountain Gorilla tracking before going to Rwanda? If so, how can they go about doing so?
During the months June to September, as well as Christmas and New Year’s, demand for permits is high, therefore it is advisable to book as far ahead as possible. The booking can be made directly through the ORTPN office in Kigali, by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Depending on availability, permits can be bought before 17h00 the day before the track, and at Kinigi on the morning of the track. However, there is no guarantee a permit will be available and it is strongly advised that one books well in advance to avoid disappointment.

02 : Can tourist walk around the National Parks by themselves alone?
No, for their safety and to ensure the preservation of the National Parks, all tourists must be accompanied by a guide, who provides useful information on the wildlife and fauna.

03 : Can tourists travel safely around Volcanoes N. P. and Nyungwe N. P. that are close to the border between D.R.C.?
Yes they can. No incident involving tourists has ever been reported in both national parks from 1994 until now. The border is patrolled by the army 24 hours. The guide and ranger accompany the trekking in national parks. The tourist can experience a trekking in safe environment.

Information on Security and Health

01 : Is the tap water drinkable?
No. Bottled or boiled water is safest.

02 : Can tourists expect good treatment if we get sick or have an accident?
Yes, there are over 300 private clinics, 34 district hospitals and over 380 health centers and dispensaries in the country. Outside of Kigali, medical facilities are more basic.
Anti-malaria tablets and mosquito repellent are essential. Tourists require a Yellow Fever inoculation.

03 : Can tourists walk around in Kigali safely?
Yes, they can. Rwanda is perhaps the most crime-free African country and Kigali is a very safe city. Although tourists should beware of pickpockets in busy markets and bus stations. In public places, tourists should keep a close eye on their possessions and avoid having valuable or large amounts of money loose in pockets or bags. It is strongly advised to keep all valuables and money in a hidden money belt.

04 : Can tourists stay at hotel or guesthouse safely?
Yes, hotels and guesthouses are safe, particularly in Kigali, although, it is a good idea to lock up your valuables. Some mid – range and upward hotels will have a safe for you to lock up anything valuable.

05 : Is there a Japan Embassy in Rwanda?
No there is no Japan Embassy in Rwanda, however, the Japanese Embassy in Kenya is accredited to Rwanda. The website for the Japan Embassy in Kenya is www.ke.emb-japan.go.jp

Information on Investment

01 : Is there any thing which can’t be carried in and out?
Tourists cannot bring into the country any illegal substances or firearms.
Also, in a move to make Rwanda more eco-friendly, at the airport, tourists may be asked to exchange any plastic bags for cotton fiber bags.

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