Frequently Asked Questions About Rwanda Safaris- Rwanda Safari News

Before you set out for a Rwanda safari many questions will probably come up and you will need a response to them. Do I stay safe when I safari Rwanda? Do I need a visa for a Rwanda tour? What’s the time zone in Rwanda? How do I get around in Rwanda? What’s Rwanda’s dialing code? These and many more queries are what we respond to here such that you can know before you go;

Is Rwanda safe for tourists?

 

Ranked as the 9^th safest country in the world and 1^st safer country to UK by the World Economic Forum (WEF), Rwanda is definitely a safe haven to visit. For several years in a row, Rwanda has been stable and safe to all international tourist. Under a presidential Republic, the government of Rwanda works hand in hand with the people of Rwanda to keep the country peaceful. When the government and the people feel the relevance of security in their country, then you can guarantee peace in the country. However, Rwanda is a landlocked country and instability in the neighboring countries would probably affect Rwanda therefore its advisable that you always check on the latest Foreign Office Advise for your destination. Always keep up to date for all security issues before you travel.

Do I need a Visa to go to Rwanda?

 

All travelers heading for Rwanda tours on international flights need a Visa to get in to Rwanda. For those crossing the borders by road, you need a valid passport or valid identification. It is advisable to always check with the local Rwandan embassy to always know the current regulations before you go for a safari in Rwanda.

What’s the time zone in Rwanda?

 

Rwanda is always two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2) with no distinct time between winter and summer. Depending on where you are arriving from, you either gain or loose some time and its advisable to use the Rwanda timing when you get into the country just to make sure you don't miss out on any activity on your Rwanda safaris activities.

Currency used in Rwanda

 

Rwanda's national currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF). The exchange rate is not constant therefore you need to know the rates before you get on the go such that you can plan accordingly. You can exchange your currency to the Rwandan franc on arrival in Kigali international airport or from a Forex bureau within the country. This eases purchase of personal items. Many tour Rwanda organizers provide all of the services that are basic for a safari to Rwanda but then this doesn't guarantee the fact that all of that provided is satisfying. In case you need a drink apart from the water provided, then you will need to buy it for yourself. If there is also need to giving a tip, then the local currency could ease this.

International Dialing Code for Rwanda

 

Rwanda's International Dialing Code is +250. To make an international call from Rwanda, you dial 00 as the exit code for Rwanda followed by ISD or country code for a specific country (you are calling to), then area code (for that country if applicable) or recipients’ number after the ISD code. Rwandatel is another better option to use to make your international calls.

Food stuffs in Rwanda

 

Within the heart of Africa, the food in Rwanda is mostly fresh and varies in cuisines. Fresh fruits are almost everywhere in the country produced in the fertile land of the country. From all the different hotels in the country, you have chance to taste a variety of food stuffs which you select according to menu. Hygiene may vary in the different hotels and being cautious when taking something for the first time is highly recommendable. Traditional diet in Rwanda comprises of simple meals made with locally grown ingredients with main foods being sweet potatoes, beans, corn, peas, millet, plantains, cassava, and fruit. The other dishes include the Umutsima (a dish of cassava and corn), isombe (cassava leaves with Eggplant and spinach) and mizuzu (fried plantains) are common dishes.

How to get around/travel in Rwanda

 

The roads in Rwanda are mostly paved especially in urban cities connecting to the different towns and border points of the country. The dirt roads quality varies from smooth hard surfaces with drainage to rutted extremely uneven tracks passable only with a 4x4 wheel drive vehicle. With a good vehicle, traveling is fairly easy with a drive speed of 40kn/h (25mph) in towns and 60km/h in provinces.

Health Facilities in Rwanda

 

Rwanda’s health services are up to western standards with hospitals varying in classes depending on the services they offer. While getting into the country its required of you to have a yellow fever certificate. Taking malaria precautions is also recommendable since malaria is widespread throughout lowland Rwanda. Its advisable to carry your medical records for easy medication in case there’s need. Also, if it’s a safari involving strenuous activities always consult your doctor before travelling and if there’s need for advice on complications like altitude sickness then you receive it before you leave.

Languages spoken in Rwanda

The main/national language spoken in Rwanda is Kinyarwanda (a Bantu language). French is widely spoken and English is also spoken by many people especially Rwanda safari driver guides.

Weather and climate in Rwanda

Though being close to the equator, Rwanda’s climate varies from the neighboring countries. The climate is cooled by the high altitudes in the country from the famous slogan the land of a thousand hills. It’s warm throughout the year though cooler in the mountains with 2 rainy seasons in mid-January to April and mid-October to mid-December. Rwanda is indeed an incredible place to visit.

On a trip here the top activities include Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris, wildlife safari Rwanda and Rwanda birding safaris. These are done in the four national parks of the country. Before you head out for any kind of safari be it a Uganda safari, safari to Kenya or Tanzania safaris, always ensure that you are aware of the basic information that eases your stay in the country.