Go Wild on a Safari in Rwanda
This Rwanda safari will take you to Volcanoes National Park as well as Akagera National Park. Volcanoes National Park is the setting for the famous ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ a movie about Dian Fossey’s work in conservation of gorillas. Rwanda is one of three African countries where mountain gorillas can be found. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is something everyone should undertake at least once in their lives. Also, gorilla safari in Rwanda is so much flexible to tourists whether on short or long stay in Rwanda. It is only in Rwanda you can take a very suitable and flexible 01-day gorilla trek excursion.
Rwanda has 12 gorilla families available for gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking starts with a briefing from the ranger guides at the park headquarters where you join all the people looking to do a gorilla trek. After this experience you are allocated a gorilla family to trek and a ranger guide to lead you. Some of the families are near the briefing area and other groups require driving to the trail head from where you enter the park.
Regardless of the gorilla group allocated to you, you will all be able to sight the gorillas which are often found feeding and the little ones playing.
It has a lot to offer in terms of sights and activities. You can combine gorilla trekking with a few other activities for diversity and excitement. Visitors to the Volcanoes National Park can also undertake golden monkey trekking, volcano climbing, and hiking, Rwanda birding safaris, nature walks, Musanze cave explorations, among others.
After all is done embark on the big five wildlife safari adventure in Akagera National Park. The journey to the park takes about 04 hours 30 minutes depending on the stopovers along the way. On arrival at the park, your driver will clear with the rangers at the gate and proceed to the visitor centre for briefing after which you proceed to the hotel for check in or a game drive depending on your interest.
Depending on your interest in animal viewing, you will decide how much time to spend on a game drive in the park. Arise early and leave after breakfast for a game drive in Akagera national park. The game drive on this wildlife tour will be in our custom-made safari land cruiser that will allow you to have amazing view of the wildlife as your driver guide takes you through different tracks.
Look out for some of the big mammals like Elephants, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Topi, Zebras, and Impala. In the recent past they re-introduced Lions and Rhinos in the park but these are often difficult to sight but it could be your lucky day. The park is a varied habitat for wildlife and a birders haven with over 500 species in the park. The game drive will last about 6 hours or more depending on your interests.
A boat safari is a relaxing yet rewarding way to view wildlife. It is an even more rewarding experience when on the Lake. Lake Ihema is the second largest Lake in Rwanda known for its abundant hippo population and crocodile dotted shores.
The boat safari on Lake Ihema offers the opportunity to take up-close photos of these animals. As other animals come to the Lake for a drink or bath, you can take a look at those that you may have missed while out on a game drive in the wild.
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Rwanda Lifts Covid-19 Tests For Park Entry
In a bid to revive its struggling tourism industry amidst the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) made an important announcement on Monday, May 29, 2023. Tourists planning to explore Rwanda’s national parks will no longer be obliged to undergo COVID-19 testing. However, individuals visiting primates within these parks will still be required to wear face masks, as emphasized by the RDB.
The decision comes as a welcome relief for travelers, as they will no longer need to provide a negative COVID-19 test to access the national parks. The RDB’s statement explicitly mentions that this relaxation applies to all tourists, including children above five years old, when applicable. Nonetheless, the mandatory use of face masks for those engaging with primates is a measure aimed at safeguarding both human and animal health.
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Rwanda, the RDB swiftly implemented strict regulations to protect tourists and wildlife within the national parks. These regulations included compulsory COVID-19 testing and the mandatory use of face masks throughout the pandemic.
Charter flight arrivals also faced rigorous testing requirements, necessitating a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, along with a second test before visiting any tourist attractions.
The recent decision to eliminate COVID-19 testing for tourists aligns with the World Health Organization’s declaration on May 5, 2023, stating that COVID-19 no longer poses a “global health emergency.” The policy change aims to foster the recovery of Rwanda’s tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing pandemic.
RDB data reveals that Rwanda’s tourism revenues experienced a remarkable surge in 2022, reaching 445 million U.S. dollars. This figure signifies a substantial growth of 171.3 percent from the previous year. The potential for nature-based tourism to propel the country’s economic growth has been emphasized in the latest RDB report.
Gorilla trekking, a captivating and unique tourist attraction in Rwanda, played a significant role in driving revenue. The RDB reported that it generated an impressive $113 million in revenues alone.
In 2022, Rwanda experienced a surge in visitors to its national parks, welcoming approximately 110,000 tourists. This surge represents a remarkable increase of 142.4 percent compared to the previous year, highlighting the country’s appeal as a tourist destination.
The RDB has set its sights on an ambitious target of increasing tourism receipts to $800 million by 2024, demonstrating a commitment to the sector’s growth and resurgence.
As Rwanda moves forward with a more relaxed testing policy, it hopes to entice more visitors, both local and international, to explore its natural wonders and contribute to the country’s tourism-driven economic recovery.
About the Rwanda Development Board: The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is a government agency responsible for the promotion and sustainable development of Rwanda’s tourism, investment, and export sectors. With a focus on enhancing Rwanda’s global competitiveness, the RDB plays a vital role in driving economic growth and attracting investments in various industries.
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Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda and Uganda
Both Uganda and Rwanda are known for their conservation efforts and commitment to ecotourism, offering unforgettable experiences. Among the most popular activities in the two countries is gorilla trekking. Besides gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, both countries offer chimpanzee tracking.
Let’s compare the chimpanzee tracking experiences in Rwanda and Uganda to help you make an informed decision for your adventure.
Chimpanzee Tracking In Rwanda
Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda (Nyungwe National Park) varies according to your citizenship. Foreign none residents are charged $150 per person inclusive of a guide while foreign residents are charged $75 per person inclusive of a guide.
Chimpanzee Tracking Location
Rwanda’s primary location for chimpanzee tracking is Nyungwe Forest National Park, situated in the southwestern part of the country. The park’s lush greenery and diverse ecosystem provide an excellent habitat for chimpanzees.
Accessibility
Nyungwe Forest National Park is easily accessible from the capital city, Kigali, with a comfortable drive of about 5-6 hours. The well-maintained roads make the journey enjoyable and convenient.
Chimpanzee Habituation
In Nyungwe Forest, chimpanzees are fully habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence. This unique opportunity allows for a closer and more immersive experience during your chimpanzee tracking adventure. You can observe their natural behaviors up close.
Biodiversity
Nyungwe Forest is renowned for its biodiversity. Besides chimpanzees, you have the chance to encounter other primate species, such as colobus monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species. This makes the overall experience even more captivating and rewarding.
Hiking Experience
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest often involves trekking through dense vegetation and navigating steep terrain. While this can be physically challenging, the stunning surroundings and the thrill of the adventure make it truly worthwhile.
Chimpanzee Tracking In Uganda
Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda also varies according to location and citizenship. A chimpanzee permit goes for $200 in Kibale forest, $100 in Budongo forest, and $50 in Kalinzu and Kyambura Gorge.
Chimpanzee Tracking Location In Uganda
In Uganda, the main location for chimpanzee tracking is Kibale National Park, situated in the western part of the country. Additional options include Budongo Forest Reserve and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering diverse settings for your chimpanzee tracking experience.
Accessibility
Kibale National Park is relatively easily accessible from the capital city, Kampala, with a pleasant drive of about 4-5 hours. However, do note that the condition of roads leading to other locations may vary.
Chimpanzee Habituation
In Uganda, chimpanzees are usually semi-habituated, meaning they are familiar with human presence to some extent but not fully habituated. This allows for a close encounter with these remarkable creatures while ensuring their well-being and conservation.
Biodiversity
Kibale National Park is renowned for its diverse primate population, including chimpanzees and red colobus monkeys. Budongo Forest and Kyambura Gorge also offer rich biodiversity, enhancing your wildlife experience beyond chimpanzee tracking.
Additional Activities
Uganda provides exciting opportunities for other wildlife experiences. You can embark on gorilla trekking adventures in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you’ll encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers thrilling game drives to spot a variety of wildlife, adding further depth to your safari experience.
In conclusion, both Rwanda and Uganda offer remarkable chimpanzee tracking experiences, each with its own unique attributes. In Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest, you can enjoy fully habituated chimpanzees, a biodiverse ecosystem, and challenging hiking trails.
In Uganda’s Kibale National Park, you’ll find semi-habituated chimpanzees, a diverse primate population. Uganda also offers chimpanzee tracking in the Budongo forest of Murchison falls national park, Kalinzu Forest near Queen Elizabeth national park, and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park.
Consider factors such as accessibility, biodiversity, permits, hiking difficulty, and other activities that interest you to make the best choice for your chimpanzee tracking adventure. Whichever country you choose, you’re bound to create lasting memories and contribute to the conservation efforts of these incredible primates. Enjoy your safari!
Read More10 Less Known Tourism Attractions in Rwanda
Rwanda is mostly covered by steep hills and deep valleys with its highest point being Karisimbi (14,187 ft. 4,324 m) in the Virunga Mountains. Although well known for the horrible history of the genocide, Rwanda is a nice country, with magnificent people, amazing lakes, mountains, a great climate, good roads, a nice standard of living with cheap things ranging from food to accommodation and lots of other things. Rwanda is a small country and almost all its attractions of nice places are next to each other. Here are 10 less known attractions to see on a safari through Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills.
- Genocide Memorial Sites
The memorials found throughout the country are moving testimonies in memory of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the people who lost their lives. Inaugurated on the 10th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide, the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi is where 259,000 victims have been buried. This memorial also serves to educate about how the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi took shape and examines genocide in the 20th century. There are two genocide memorials outside Kigali. One is Ntarama church that is about 5 km down a right-hand fork that branches off the Nyamata road, roughly 20 km outside Kigali. This church has been left empty just as it was after removing the bodies with scraps of personal items like clothes on the floor. Next to this church is a building where other people seeking safety were massacred. The other church is just is at Nyamata 30 km from Kigali which was a site of horrible massacres. The bodies were also removed although blood stains remain on the walls. A courtyard was dug outside the underground chamber and that’s where the skulls of many victims are being displayed.
- Kabgayi church museum
3 km from Gitarama along Butare road lays the massive cathedral of Kabgayi. This is the oldest in the country dating back in 1925. This was the first settlement area of the Catholic Bishop. With a huge size and peaceful interior the church is worth a visit and there is a small museum beside it.
- Musanze caves
Formed by centuries of geologic activity centered around the Virunga volcanoes next door, the 1.25-mile long Musanze caves are located just outside of the town they share a name with, and are only a 90-minute drive from Kigali. With an enormous opening (and an equally huge number of bats resident inside), the greenery outside spilling over into the twilight within makes for a fantastic photo op. Though today they’re a tourist attraction, the caves were used as a shelter during wartime for many centuries leading right up into the modern era, and as such, it’s an important site to local people. Thus, out of respect for the area’s residents, access is limited to guided visits. Expert guides lead every tour, and they explain the history of the caves from their formation to present day. The tours make an excellent add-on activity for the afternoon after you’ve seen the gorillas. The tours take about 2.5 hours and can be done at any time throughout the year.
- Hotel des Milles Colline
This is a hotel in Kigali that is attracting people’s attention of recent due to the “Hotel Rwanda” movie and its contribution to Rwanda. The Hotel is known to have housed and protected over 1,268 people under the management of Paul Rusesabagina. Paul took over management of this hotel a few days after the start of the genocide and this was as after the European managers had been flown out. Paul and his wife used to bribe the Hutu Interahamwe Militia with money and alcohol to keep them from killing the refugees.
- Rusumo Falls
The falls is located at the Eastern part of Rwanda at the border with Tanzania. It is an amazing and spectacular falls that is a part of the distant headwaters of the river Nile. It’s not worth missing while crossing the border of Rwanda with Tanzania.
- National Museum
This is located in Butare city in Huye and it is known to be the most tourists’ attraction in Butare. The museum is known to have probably the finest ethnographic collection in the whole of East Africa. It has spacious rooms that allow the exhibitions to be appreciated and enjoyed. Exhibitions provide information not only on pre-colonial history but also on the process of development of the country (Rwanda) to her modernity today. At the museum you can organise for the Ntore dancers to entertain you with the traditional dances of Rwanda.
- The source of River Nile
Over the years, many countries and locations have laid claim to having the ‘source of the Nile’! In 2005 – 2006 a team called ‘Ascend the Nile’ set off from Egypt to trace the entire length of the Nile and eventually they found their goal at the head of the Rukarara River in Rwanda, which is a tributary of the Akagera which flows into Lake Victoria. It is now possible to walk to the Source of the Nile, which is actually located in the northern section of Nyungwe Forest National Park. Treks can be booked from Gisovu Tea Factory in advance and a guide will take you there. The trail takes around 45-60 minutes in each direction and is an easy walk.
- Nyange High School
3 years after the genocide in Rwanda, groups of rebels kept infiltrating into Rwanda from Congo to destabilize the new government, and carried out massacres, mostly against Tutsis. On the night of 18th March 1997 they raided Nyange Secondary school in the North West of the country. The rebels surrounded the school dining hall and classes when all students were doing their night studies. Students in class 6 were made to lie down and asked to separate themselves into two groups: Hutu and Tutsi. They refused. This is the story of those students – whose refusal to separate cost many of them their lives, among them, a girl named Marie Chantal who was the first to say those magic words, have later honoured as national heroes.
- Camp Kigali Belgian Monument
A small museum in Kigali City lies at the site of the massacre of 10 Belgian UN Blue Beret. At the onset of Genocide under the command of General Dallaire, they were deployed to guard the house of Prime Minister Agatha Uwilingimana. When the genocide began, Presidential Guard soldiers invaded the home, disarmed the Belgians and transported them to Camp Kigali where they killed them. The ten stone pillars memorialize the ten soldiers killed.
- National Treasures
To have a tryst with the national treasures of all the Rwanda Destinations, you just have to go for a stopover at the Butare National Museum which is considered as one of the best museums in East Africa. The Museum features numerous things belonging to Rwandan histories such as traditional forms of housing, musical instruments, tribal art, and other artifacts. This museum also rewards visitors with a great grounding in Rwandan history and culture.
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Top 10 Things To Do In Rwanda
Rwanda is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the lush rainforests of Nyungwe to the serene waters of Lake Kivu, Rwanda is a destination that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are the top ten things to do in Rwanda:
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places in the world where you can encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Rwanda is home to over a third of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, and Volcanoes National Park is home to ten gorilla families that can be visited by tourists.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that involves hiking through the dense forest in search of these magnificent creatures. Tourists are allowed to spend one hour with the gorillas, observing their behavior and taking photographs. It is a truly unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
Kigali Genocide Memorial
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a sobering and educational museum that commemorates the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The museum serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the genocide and honors the victims who lost their lives.
At the Museum, you will learn about the history of the genocide, view exhibits that document the events leading up to it, and pay your respects at the memorial site. It is a powerful experience that provides a deeper understanding of the country’s past and present.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a dense rainforest located in southwestern Rwanda that is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. The park offers guided hikes through the forest, where you can observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
The forest is also home to over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. For those who love hiking, there are several trails that lead through the forest to breathtaking waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a stunning freshwater lake located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and islands and is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Among the activities to consider at Lake Kivu include but are not limited to boat tours of the lake, visiting local fishing villages, and soaking in the natural hot springs that are found along its shores. The lake is also home to several luxurious resorts where visitors can relax and unwind.
Akagera National Park
Akagera National Park is a diverse wildlife park located in eastern Rwanda that is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. It is the only national park in Rwanda where you can enjoy game drives.
The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. For those who want to experience the park from a different perspective, there are several guided walks and boat tours available.
Nyanza Genocide Memorial
The Nyanza Genocide Memorial is a museum that honors the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The museum is located on the site of a former school where thousands of Tutsi were killed during the genocide.
Similar to the Kigali genocide museum, you will learn about the history of the genocide, view exhibits that document the events leading up to it, and pay their respects at the memorial site. The Genocide is the mark of new beginnings founded on a dark past that Rwanda seeks to never return to.
Inema Art Center
The Inema Art Center is a contemporary art center that showcases the work of Rwandan artists. The center features a variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
There is a lot of artwork on display coupled with exhibitions and workshops. It is also possible to purchase pieces to take home as souvenirs. The center also hosts cultural events and performances that showcase the rich culture of Rwanda.
Kimironko Market
Kimironko Market is a bustling local market located in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. The market offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and clothing.
The city market life experience in Kigali can easily be summed up at Kimironko market. Among the things to do as you stroll through the market include sampling the local cuisines. It is a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Rwanda and pick up some unique souvenirs to take home.
Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village
The Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village is a cultural center located near Volcanoes National Park that offers a glimpse into traditional Rwandan life. A number of cultural activities such as traditional dance performances, cooking demonstrations, and handicraft workshops are offered in this Village.
The center also offers guided tours of the surrounding community, where visitors can learn about local customs and traditions. It is a great place to learn about the rich culture of Rwanda and interact with the local community as well as learn about the life of rehabilitated poachers.
Hiking Mount Bisoke
Mount Bisoke is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes visitors to the top of a volcano with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is approximately six hours round trip and involves hiking through dense vegetation, crossing streams, and navigating rocky terrain.
At the summit, hikers can peer into the crater lake and take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Rwanda and challenge oneself physically. To many people, Akagera national park tours, Genocide memorials, and gorilla trekking are still the main highlights of visiting Rwanda.
Rwanda Safaris Through the Lens of a Native
When you talk about safaris in Rwanda, often primate and wildlife viewing are the first areas of interest. But the amazing part about it is that, Rwanda boasts of its rich cultural heritage which also remains not fully tapped. It is one destination that attracts visitors who come to appreciate its natural endowment beyond wildlife.
The best way to experience the authentic Rwanda cultures is by undertaking a cultural or community visit to any of the nearby communities. This can be done before or after your wildlife or primate trekking adventures in the National Parks. The beauty about Rwanda safaris is that travelers can be in position to incorporate wildlife/primate tours with community visitors. Visiting local communities plays a remarkable part in promoting community-based tourism which is aimed at boosting wildlife conservation in the area.
The Rwanda community tourism often involves locals adjacent to the parks to appreciate tourism and wildlife conservation. The locals showcase their unique cultural products to the visitors. Direct visit to communities adjacent to the parks is incredible because it is one way to directly support local communities rather than going through government channels which often may not reach them.
The community visits offer deep insight into community’s unique cultures, traditions and visits are made purposely to promote the tourism sector. Other than hands-on experiences, most community-tourism based projects now include accommodation facilities. They often cater for the budget or basic traveler needs and setting up such facilities is a great opportunity for the local communities to boost their tourism industry.
Areas of interest for community experiences in Rwanda
Village Walks
Village walks offer unforgettable on-foot walk experience with lead of local guide taking you through communities. The areas of interest during village walks include visiting the extensive tea or coffee farms where you get to explore the entire process of coffee or tea farming- from planting to processing stage or when the coffee or tea is ready for consumption. The guided village walks usually take about 3 hours and this may vary depending on the list of the activities and sites to be visited.
Homestays
Homestays provide a great chance for tourists to immerse themselves into the Rwandan culture and communities of their interest. You need some days to stay with a family in their community and while there, you can engage in different daily chores, learn how to prepare traditional food and more.
Ubumwe community tour
If you are looking for authentic Rwanda cultural experience, then don’t miss visiting Ubumwe community. This community center is comprised of persons with disabilities –adults and children. It is where children are provided a chance to study, learn skills, work and empowering them to be independent. About 130 children and adults with primary education, counseling, vocational training & workshop employment have benefited from the initiative. If you are looking for the best place to go for education tour then consider Ubumwe community a must-visit.
The gorilla guardian village
The gorilla guardian village previously the Iby’Iwacu village is a perfect area for tourists to visit after gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. The local residents will entertain you with their unique dances and music performance with a chance to learn in depth about their distinct traditions & cultures.
Nyange community walk
This was created primarily to showcase the different aspects of Rwandan village/rural life. Visitors get to learn more about how locals carry out their daily activities, the cultures and traditions as well as lifestyles. You can also have hands-on experiences, especially on mat weaving; learn how the banana beer is made locally by locals and more.
Kagano living village
Kagano living village tours introduce you into Kagano village to experience Rwanda’s authentic rural way doing things. The 2-3 hours guided walk allows you meet, interact with local residents and explore more about how they socialize, what they grow as communities, and a lot more. This village lies nearby Rutsiro city, and ideal for visitors on Rwanda safaris in Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
Humure refugee village trip
For visitors on Rwanda safari to Akagera NP, the must-visit location for authentic community experiences is the Humure Refugee Village. It is 40 minutes’ drive off from Akagera N/Park and you will have a lot to experience from how locals prepare their meals and dancing skills.
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South Africa Tourism To Advertise With Tottenham Hotspur
In 2018, Rwanda become the first country in the whole world to advertise through a tagline on a sleeve of a sports clubs in the United Kingdom. The Rwanda marketing efforts have received a number of mixed reactions but it seems it was a well thought through move.
Once Rwanda adopted this marketing strategy, they more than doubled the cost of gorilla trekking permits. They also opened a number of luxury lodges which is an integral part of the Rwanda luxury gorilla safaris. 
While many people mainly focus on the statistics of the arrivals, they never realize that Rwanda revised most of the prices for their safari packages. Even though the arrivals have not yet doubled, the earning have more than doubled.
South Africa is attempting a similar move. They want to have the “visit South Africa” tagline on the sleeve of Tottenham Hotspur jersey. This will cost them 42.5 million pounds in a period of years. For the case of Rwanda, the deal is costing them 10 million pounds every year.
The South African deal has sparked rage among a number of South African claiming it is not a fair deal in the midst of load shedding, poor service delivery, high inflation, unemployment and rising cost of living in South Africa.
It should be noted that before the covid-19 pandemic, South Africa used to receive an average of 10 million tourists every year. For the last two years, South Africa has received less than 3 million tourists per year.
According to the acting CEO of South Africa tourism Themba Khumalo, the Tottenham deal will bring them sure returns. He said the deal has nothing to do with football but having access to the audiences of Football. The 1 billion Rand deal is expected to bring returns of 6 billion rand in a period of 3 years.
South Africa mainly offers beaches, desert & Savannah wildlife safaris, and hiking/mountaineering safaris. It still no clear whether the Rwanda sleeve marketing deal is a reliable booster of tourism but South Africa tourism team believes it will more than triple their tourism returns.
Read More5 Most Popular Safari Locations in Rwanda
If you happen to be a nature lover or a budding photographer then Africa is the ideal destination for you to visit. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in the world. Rwanda tours are a must when you visit Africa for a vacation. According to All About Rwanda, this country has a summer spell during the months of June till august. This area is also famous since it has a large number of beautiful lakes; the landscape of the entire city is absolutely breath taking.
Lake Kivu
I am sure that you will be taken back by its beauty. The largest lake of Africa Lake Kivu is found her as well. There are vast tracks of hills and swamps here. The local essence of Rwanda lies in the simplicity of the place and its people. Kivu is one of Africa’s Great lakes with deep emerald green waters and shoreline of the magnificent mountains and fishing villages. The lake is dotted with un in habited islands that can be explored by boats and provide the perfect location to relax and enjoy the serene peace of the country side with ambience.
Volcanoes National Park
A gorilla tracking destination, found just two and a half hours north of Kigali city equipped with luxury and budget accommodation facilities for travellers heading for the memorable Gorilla safari Expedition. Rwanda is among the three countries in the world where you can trek to see the majestic mountain Gorillas up close- a truly once a life time Experience.
Mountain gorillas are what Rwanda safaris are famous for. The entire belt is known for the large number of gorillas that are found here. There are many treks that follow these gorillas. The volcanoes that are found in the national parks are home to these mountain gorillas. So a trip here will ensure that you go on Rwanda Gorilla Trek as well.
You could also visit the golden monkey, the mountain gorillas form such an intrinsic part of the people’s lives here that every year in the month of June a ceremony is held to give names to the gorillas that live here. I had the chance to go on this particular safari. And let me tell this experience has left me speechless. It was a great feeling being able to interact with these huge animals.
A trip to this continent would be ideal for a week or two. You could make this vacation either by road or by the sea. Since there are so many water bodies in Africa traveling by a boat is a fabulous way to get to know the place better. You could also hire a plane and explore the dense jungles of Africa with the help of a pilot and a guide. But a Rwanda safari will ensure that you visit places that have been untouched by man so far and have the beauty of Mother Nature still intact.
Africa has a large number of reserves and wildlife parks that have been very popular amongst tourists. People from all different parts of the world visit this gorgeous place in large numbers every year. If you are a nature lover then you would love hiking on different trails to see the mountain gorillas. A regular hiking tour lasts for about a week. It depends on how much you are ready to spend on it.
These tours are inclusive of accommodation, food and transportation. You must ensure to have a gorilla permit if you are thinking of taking meeting the endangered mountain gorillas. When booking an all inclusive Rwanda safari these permits are also included in your fare. Thus it is a smart and a sensible way to explore the jungles and have a great vacation as well.
3. Nyungwe National park
This is one of the oldest rainforest found anywhere on the African continent. The lush green forest is a home to over 300 bird species and 13 primate species including Chimpanzee, Colobus monkeys, Grey-cheeked mangabey ,Golden Monkey, Owl-faced monkey , Three species of bush baby, Olive baboon ,Red -tailed monkey, Ruwenzori colobus, Silver monkey , L’Hoest’s monkey, Vervet monkey ,Owl-faced monkey & others. You can enjoy the elevated canopy trails along a 70metre high walk away from exhilarating views of the forest.
4. Akagera National Park
This is Rwanda’s largest National park and a home to diversity of Plants & animals.The lakes papyrus, swamp; savannah plains & rolling highlands make Akagera an incredible scenic reserve. The park is a home to Exclusive shoebill stork & other bird species, elephants, leopards, antelopes, giraffes, lions, Bufalloes among others. That will make your wildlife excursion during game drive more thrilling in Africa hence making Rwanda the great travel country in the entire world.
Read MoreRenting a Car for Travel Beyond Rwanda
Border crossing with a Rental Car from Rwanda is a very simple process when you have the right information beforehand. We at Rent a car Rwanda know very well that some clients need to cross over to the neighboring countries in Uganda, Congo or to Tanzania to extend their adventure. We understand the tourism business and very well know it’s easier for one to rent one car and not have to change for reasons of having to cross borders.
We desire to equip you with the necessary information and tip to cross the borders easily with a rental car, if you’re asking yourself whether it is possible to cross the borders with a rented car. The answer is yes, if you want to consider Border crossing with a Rwanda Car Rental will have no problem processing your request.
East African Border Crossing Essentials:
- Passport and Visas
East African passport holders resident to Rwanda do not require a visa to visit Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi. However, should you be traveling with an emergency travel document?
- International Driver’s Permit or National Driver’s License
Although not compulsory this is recommended for everyone driving in foreign countries however The Local English driver’s license is recognized in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.
- COMESA Sticker
If you’re traveling from Rwanda across borders vehicles should bear a Comesa sticker which designates that they are foreign vehicles.
- White and Red Reflective Tape
In Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, two small white rectangular size strips on the right and left hand side of the front bumper, as well as two small red square strips on the right and left hand side of the rear bumper is required.
- Vehicle Registration/Vehicle License Papers
A certified copy of vehicle registration/vehicle license papers is acceptable at the border posts. Must be accompanied with a letter from the company giving you authorization to take the vehicle across the border, and must indicate dates. Both the letter and license papers should be signed by the Owner. If you are not the registered owner of the vehicle, please carry an affidavit from the police giving you authorization from the Company /owner to take the vehicle abroad.
Whereas some car hire companies do allow border crossing with a rental car, most agencies on the other hand do not accept their vehicles to cross over to some countries more so to those countries that have political issues.
- Letter of authority
If you are traveling in a rented car or 4×4 across borders, you have to have a letter from the car hire Rwanda Company giving you permission to take the vehicle out of the country
You’ll have to get ready for the additional cost of a cross border fees, this is an extra fee to cover the extra insurance needed when you drive in a different nation from where you hire the vehicle. Some Rwanda car hire agencies just get for papers for crossing the border and even advise you on where to buy the insurance needed to drive in any country you planning to visit.
You should simply tell the Rwanda car hire where you’re anticipating going and they’ll advise you on how much additional you have to pay. They’ll require some notice, so ideally let the agency know your itinerary when you book the vehicle, and also before you arrive to pick the vehicle or before they deliver it to you at the airport or at the hotel.
How much do I have to pay to cross a border?
That really depends on where you’re going. Simply let the car hire Rwanda agency know which border you’re planning to cross with their vehicle and they’ll give all the information and papers you need to cross the board and how much you will pay for insurance.
You need to have in mind that that our car rental rates will go a bit above the usual car rental fees meant to cover cross border insurance fees, regional taxes, etc.
These additional fees also cover the extra insurance needed when you’re driving in a different country. We, however, will arrange the entire border crossing paperwork on behalf of the renters and include all the charges within the total costs for hiring the vehicle.
Why I have to tell the rental company?
In case you don’t inform the car rental agency before you drive into another country, you’ll void your insurance / protection. This implies on the off chance that you have an accident, or if your vehicle gets stolen or damaged in another country, you’ll need to pay all cost to the rental agency out of your own pocket.
Conclusion, Thinking of traveling cross borders this season for a vacation, business or leisurely tour, and still looking for the ideal provider to get you around? Simply approach Rwanda car rental to get helped. Thinking of traveling cross borders this season for a vacation, business or leisurely tour, and still looking for the ideal provider to get you around? Simply approach any preferred rental company to get helped.
Read MoreBenefits of Renting a Car with Driver in Rwanda
When you hire a chauffeur, you don’t have to worry about the extra fees that come with renting a car, including parking fees, extra insurance and fuel. Licensed chauffeurs are highly experienced at navigating all types of traffic and weather conditions. Below are some of the benefits of renting a car with a driver in Rwanda;
Enjoyment
The first benefit of renting a car with a driver is that you don’t have to drive the car yourself and completely enjoy your trip sightseeing the roads, the mountains and the forests on your route. You can keep talking and discussing things with your companions have snacks and refreshments without focusing on the road.
Expertise
The second big benefit of renting a car with a driver is that the drivers that a car rental company provides you are experts in their profession and know about how to safely drive the car on highways and narrow streets without becoming prone to a car accident. Also, they have enough information about how to repair a car when it’s stopped in the middle of nowhere, so you don’t have to worry about being stuck at the spot for several hours doing nothing but wait for a mechanic to come and solve the problem.
Knowing the correct route
The drivers that a rental company hires are first assessed on how much they’ve traveled, how much they’ve learned about the routes, and what driving skills they have. After this complete inspection, the rental company hires the best candidates and hands over the responsibility of driving their cars. That’s the reason renting a car with a driver will help you to reach your destination through the correct route where there are no hurdles, and you reach in a safe & sound condition.
Knowledge about the car
Many times, when you rent a car, you aren’t properly aware of what functions the car has. Nowadays, the new cars are full of technology and features that weren’t introduced before. The drivers that a car rental company provides have enough knowledge about these features and how they work. So, if you aren’t aware of new car features, the best solution for this is to rent a car with a driver.
Helper
Renting a car with a driver is always beneficial rather than renting without a driver. The driver that a rental company appoints can help you out a lot during your trip as they know their way around places, hence if you need a hotel to have your meals at or to stop at some place for prayers, etc. the driver can have a good idea of where to take you, where you’ll get the most hygienic options, and this will make your trip more convenient and comfortable compared to traveling on your own.
Car’s safety
Another benefit of renting a car with a driver is the car’s safety, as the driver doesn’t leave the car alone. He always remains inside or near to it to keep an eye on the vehicle. This prevents the car from any damage or theft. That’s the reason it’s always a good option to have a driver when going on a tour.
Your safety
You might be worried about what will happen in case you get into an accident while on your road trip. Will the rental company trust that it wasn’t your fault? So here’s the solution for this. You can rent a car with a driver to protect yourself from being asked about the reason for the accident. The driver will be answerable to all these questions as he’s the one who was driving the car. So, it’s always recommended renting a car with a driver if you want to save yourself from incidental queries.
Relaxation
You can book car rental services with drivers and their main aim is to take you to your destination in a safe and sound manner. It’s totally the driver’s responsibility to take care of your transportation needs while you relax.
Smooth Transportation
If you are new to Rwanda, you will definitely get very confused when it comes to renting a luxury car and driving around the city because of the multiple roads connecting to multiple exits. Moreover, you will have no clue about the peak hours in Rwanda. So, if you rent an affordable car with a driver, he will know where to go, how to go and when to go.
Professionalism
Chauffeur services in Rwanda are very popular as business meetings and dealings are common in the city. Furthermore, if you have a VIP guest to attend, you need the best of the services. Luxury car rentals with chauffeur have made it easy to handle the guests professionally. They will be properly dressed in uniform and will transport the guests to their desired location.
Smooth Parking
You do not have to spend hours finding the right spot to park your car if you have rented a car with a driver can enjoy your outing in Rwanda while the driver of your rented car can take care of the parking.
Fluent Communication
Whenever we visit any foreign city or country, we are not required to learn their language. However, at times we may face communication barriers. So if you have rented a car with a driver in Rwanda, there will be no hurdles in communicating. The drivers can directly communicate with the locals. You don’t need to worry about communicating with anyone in Rwanda.
These were some benefits of renting a car with a driver. Whenever you plan a road trip, always remember these points before making your final decision about renting a car. If you’re from any foreign country you can rent from Kenya car rental, as it is one of the most reliable rental car companies in the whole country.
Booking a rented car with a driver will let you focus more on your trip. Let the driver solve the hassles of traffic and parking, while you enjoy your trip in your affordable rented car. Best of luck with your journey.
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