9 Days Rwanda Chimps, Gorillas, Golden Monkeys & Wildlife Safari

Before you book · Rwanda

Travelling in Rwanda

Visas & entry

Visa on arrival for all nationalities (USD 50, 30 days) or apply via Irembo in advance; many African and Commonwealth passports enter visa-free. The East Africa Tourist Visa (USD 100) covers Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an endemic country.

Arrival gateway

Kigali International Airport (KGL) — most parks are a 2–4 hour drive on excellent tarmac.

Permits

Rwanda gorilla permits are USD 1,500 per person (golden monkey USD 100, Nyungwe chimpanzee USD 150). Only 8 trekkers per gorilla family per day; permits are non-refundable and sell out for June–September, so book early.

Best time to travel

June–September (long dry season) and mid-December–February are best for trekking and game drives. March–May is the long rains — lush, atmospheric and quieter.

Health & vaccinations

Malaria prophylaxis recommended, particularly for Akagera and Lake Kivu. Rwanda has excellent private clinics in Kigali. Trekkers must be symptom-free of respiratory illness on the day of the trek.

Money & payments

Rwandan Franc (RWF). Cards and mobile money are widely used in Kigali; carry USD or RWF cash for rural markets, tips and community visits.

Weather & climate

Temperate 'land of a thousand hills' climate: 22–27°C by day in Kigali, 10–15°C nights at Volcanoes National Park (2,500 m+), regular afternoon showers in the green seasons.

Connectivity

One of the best-connected countries in Africa — fast 4G nationwide and Wi-Fi in nearly every lodge.

Tipping guideline

USD 15–20 per guest for the tracking team after a gorilla trek, USD 15–20 for a porter, USD 10–15 per day for your driver-guide, and 5–10% in Kigali restaurants.

What to pack

Waterproof hiking boots, long trousers and sleeves, gaiters, gloves, rain shell, warm layer for the volcano slopes, daypack, and 2 litres of water for trekking days.

Local etiquette

Plastic bags are banned nationwide. Rwanda is exceptionally clean and orderly — photography of government buildings, airports and military sites is not permitted. Genocide memorials require quiet, respectful dress.

Requirements and fees change. We reconfirm current visa, permit and health rules in writing before you pay any balance.