The Republic of Rwanda is a landlocked country in Central Africa’s Great Rift Valley, where Africa’s Great Lakes region intersects with Southeast Africa. Bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda’s geography is dominated by mountains, savanna and numerous lakes. Located a few degrees south of the Equator, Rwanda’s quilt-like topography and highly elevated position have given it the nickname, ‘land of a thousand hills.
Instructions for Akagera National Park
1. Open every day from 8:00 to 18:00.
2. Entry point is Kiyonza near Hotel Akagera.
3. All visitors must enter through the acceptable entry point above.
4. It is strictly recommended to travel with the guides while in the park who are always at our office (entry point).
5. The former exit point at Gabiro Guest House is closed. The only exit points are Karangazi, Kizirankombe and Nyamiyaga.
6. Keep the receipts given to you at our offices.
7. All the visitors of Akagera National are advised to abide by these rules and regulations.
8. ORTPN is not liable for accidents the tourists may incur while in the park.
The best time to visit Rwanda
The best time to go on a Rwanda safari is during the dry seasons, from June to mid-September and December to February, for optimal wildlife viewing, especially gorilla trekking. These periods offer the best hiking conditions and lower risk of malaria. The dry seasons are also when you’ll find clearer skies and more comfortable temperatures.
Health information
Visitors to East Africa arriving from any country with risk of yellow fever are required to carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. There is risk of malaria throughout the year so we advise that carry a good mosquito repellent and wear clothes that cover most parts of your body, especially if you are traveling during the rainy months.
Visitors to Rwanda and Uganda who are going gorilla trekking should be aware that gorillas are susceptible to most human diseases. If you are suffering from a contagious disease (especially the flu), you must inform your guide and not join the trek for the safety of these endangered gorillas. A standard trek is a strenuous and can last between one to four hours each way. Please note that children below 15 years of age are not permitted to go gorilla trekking.
Language and religion
The official languages in Rwanda are Kinyarwanda, French and English. Kinyarwanda is a Bantu language and is spoken widely. Kirundi – spoken in the neighboring country Burundi – and Kinyarwanda, are similar languages and have formed a wider dialect continuum called Rwanda–Rundi. Other languages like Swahili are also spoken in Rwanda. The use of English is most common in larger cities and in popular tourist destinations only. The further you travel into the interiors, the lesser the chances of finding locals who can converse in English.
The majority of Rwandans (about 65%) are Roman Catholic and another 9% are Protestant. Only about 1% of the population is Muslim. About a fourth of Rwandans adhere to indigenous beliefs. Many Rwandans practice both their traditional religion and Christianity at the same time.
Currency and Cards
In Rwanda, US dollars are the most accepted currency in larger cities although smaller shops will only accept local currency. If you are carrying dollar bills, do make sure that they were printed in 2017 or later or you may be refused service. International credit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted at most establishments. Amex cards however, are not accepted in most areas.
Food in Rwanda
The local food is delicious, fresh, largely meat-based and locally sourced. Plenty of options for vegetarians – while there aren’t any vegan restaurants, most places have vegetarian option that could easily be modified to suit your need. Fruits can be found in plenty.
Try a cup of Rwandan coffee or tea
Tea is Rwanda’s largest export. The fertile volcanic soil and temperate climate are perfect for growing the plants that create this popular drink. Tea leaves can be seen covering the mountains – creating a stunning contrast to the blue skies, dirt roads and sunshine. Visitors can discover how tea is harvested, processed, and even get to taste the results. Tea may be Rwanda’s number one export, but the lush, rolling hills of the Rwandan countryside are equally suited to coffee production, and the beans coming out of Rwanda today are in serious demand all around the world.
Cooking class tours
If you have time to spare and want the insider guide to Rwandan cuisine, sign up for a cooking class. The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre offers cooking classes for only RWF 15,000. Not only will you be helping vulnerable women in the community make a living, but you’ll get an authentic look into the preparation and creation of traditional meals.