Getting to Rwanda

The following Airlines fly in and out of Rwanda : SN Brussels, Rwandair Express, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Air Burundi. Connections via other major airlines is usually feasible.

Direct flights to Rwanda are available from the following destinations:

• Two flights per day from Nairobi
• Two flights per week from Brussels and two per week from South Africa
• You can also fly directly to Nairobi, Kenya or Entebbe, Uganda and connect to Kigali

All international flights land at Kigali International Airport, which is located 5km (3mi) from the city centre and 3 hours drive to the gorillas at the Parc National des Volcans.

Passports and Visas

A valid passport is required for entry into Rwanda. Visas are also required by all foreigner travelers except for the following nationals: USA, UK, Germany, Canada, East Africa (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi), DRC, Sweden, Mauritius, South Africa and Hong Kong.

Visas cost $60 and can be bought upon arrival at the airport or any border crossing in Rwanda.

Money

Rwandan francs (Amafaranga) is the official currencya. US dollars can be used in Kigali shopping centers and hotels. You can exchange travelers’ checks in Kigali; but in the country side it is not possible to do so. Major credit cards -- Visa and MasterCard -- are accepted at major banks and hotels in Kigali.

Language

Rwanda’s native language is Kinyarwanda. English and French are also used by a large majority of people living in the city and towns.

Public holidays

Rwanda has a number of national holidays. While these holidays do not hinder gorilla trekking, they may interfere with other tourism activities outside of the national parks.