1. Entry Requirements & Visas

Passport and visa rules

Entry requirements for Rwanda depend on nationality, passport type, travel purpose and duration of stay. Many travellers can receive a tourist visa on arrival or apply online before travel, but requirements can change. Check the rules for your specific passport before booking and again shortly before departure.

• Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival.
• Many visitors can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival or apply through Rwanda’s online visa system.
• Keep proof of accommodation, return or onward travel and sufficient funds available.
• A tourist visa does not permit paid work in Rwanda.
• Apply for extensions before your authorised stay expires.
• Check current rules before crossing into Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi or the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Rwanda’s Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration provides visa enquiries through Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein. and telephone number +250 726 791 803; its general enquiries number is +250 788 152 222. [565]

Official visa and immigration information: Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration.

East African Tourist Visa

Travellers combining Rwanda with Uganda and Kenya may be eligible for an East African Tourist Visa. This option can simplify a regional itinerary, but the issuing country, nationality eligibility, entry order and permitted crossings must all be checked before travel.

• It may allow multiple tourist entries between Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
• It is generally designed for stays of up to 90 days.
• The first entry is usually required through the country that issued the visa.
• It does not automatically cover Tanzania, Burundi or the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Always confirm current conditions before relying on this visa for border crossings.

Yellow fever certificate

Rwanda may require proof of yellow fever vaccination for travellers arriving from, or transiting through, countries with yellow fever transmission risk. Carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination in hand luggage and confirm requirements with a travel clinic, airline and Rwandan immigration authority.

Important travel documents

• Passport with sufficient remaining validity.
• Visa, e-visa confirmation or visa-on-arrival eligibility evidence where needed.
• Return or onward travel ticket.
• Accommodation bookings, safari itinerary or host address.
• Travel medical insurance certificate with evacuation cover.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if relevant to your itinerary.
• Gorilla, chimpanzee or national-park permits.
• International driving permit if planning to rent a vehicle.
• Printed and digital copies of passport, insurance and reservations.

Customs and restricted items

• Do not bring illegal drugs, weapons or prohibited substances.
• Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with an English doctor’s letter.
• Do not buy or export ivory, wildlife products, protected plants or unpermitted cultural artefacts.
• Check drone import and flight-permit requirements before bringing a drone.
• Plastic carrier bags are heavily restricted in Rwanda; use reusable bags instead.
• Do not photograph military sites, police, border posts or security installations.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Medical preparation

Kigali has Rwanda’s strongest healthcare services, including private hospitals and clinics. Medical care can be more limited in rural areas and near national parks, where specialised treatment, emergency transport and medicine availability may be restricted. Medical-evacuation insurance is highly advisable.

• Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before departure.
• Ask a travel clinic about hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, typhoid, rabies, meningitis and malaria prevention.
• Bring enough regular prescription medication for the full stay plus a reserve supply.
• Keep medicine in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
• Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, oral rehydration salts, a small first-aid kit and stomach medicine.
• Seek medical advice before high-effort trekking if you have heart, lung or mobility conditions.

Malaria and mosquito protection

Malaria risk exists in Rwanda and varies with altitude, location and season. Kigali and the highland gorilla region have different conditions from lower-lying areas such as Akagera, but visitors should obtain personal travel-health advice before departure.

• Discuss malaria prevention medication with a qualified clinician before travel.
• Use effective insect repellent, especially from dusk to dawn.
• Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening where practical.
• Use mosquito nets or screened, air-conditioned accommodation where available.
• Seek urgent medical advice if you develop fever during or after travel.
• Dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses can also occur.

Gorilla trekking health rules

Gorilla trekking takes place in steep, wet and often muddy mountain rainforest. Treks can last from a relatively short walk to several strenuous hours depending on where the gorilla family is located, the weather and terrain. Health rules protect both visitors and the critically important primates.

• Do not trek when ill with fever, cough or another potentially infectious respiratory condition.
• Follow ranger instructions immediately and at all times.
• Maintain the required distance from gorillas and other primates.
• Tell your guide if you feel unwell or cannot continue safely.
• Wear waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, gloves and rain protection.
• Hiring a porter can make the trek easier and supports local employment.

Travel insurance

Comprehensive insurance should cover emergency medical treatment, evacuation, repatriation, hiking, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, safari activities, boating and any multi-country travel included in your itinerary.

• Confirm emergency evacuation cover from Volcanoes, Nyungwe and Akagera national parks.
• Check that gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are not excluded.
• Verify private-hospital coverage in Kigali.
• Confirm coverage continues if travelling to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania or other nearby countries.
• Save your insurer’s 24-hour assistance number offline.

Water, food and altitude

• Drink sealed bottled, boiled or reliably filtered water.
• Choose freshly cooked food served hot.
• Wash or peel fruit and vegetables where possible.
• Use caution with raw salads, ice and food from uncertain sources.
• Stay hydrated during driving days, hikes and warm weather.
• Kigali and the volcano region are at altitude, so allow time to acclimatise if needed.

3. Safety & Travel Advice

General safety

Rwanda is often regarded as orderly and comparatively safe for visitors, particularly in Kigali and on established tourism routes. However, travellers should take normal urban precautions against theft, remain alert in crowds and understand that conditions near certain borders can change rapidly.

• Keep passports, money, cards and phones secure in markets, transport hubs and busy areas.
• Use hotel safes where available and avoid displaying expensive valuables.
• Use reputable hotels, licensed guides, arranged airport transfers and reliable taxi services.
• Avoid walking alone after dark in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
• Do not leave valuables visible in parked vehicles.
• Use bank ATMs in secure locations and watch for card fraud.

Border and regional security

Security conditions close to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi can be sensitive. Current U.S. advice calls for increased caution throughout Rwanda due to crime and unrest, and specifically advises against travel within 10 km of the DRC border in Musanze, Rubavu and Rusizi districts. [563]

• Check official advice before travelling near the DRC or Burundi borders.
• Do not make spontaneous trips to border areas or border crossings.
• Avoid demonstrations, political gatherings and large crowds.
• Do not photograph police, military personnel, checkpoints or security facilities.
• Use reputable local operators for Lake Kivu, Nyungwe and western-Rwanda itineraries.
• Keep your accommodation and transport plans flexible if regional conditions change.

Road safety

Rwanda drives on the right. Main roads are often well maintained, but the country’s hilly terrain means that routes can be steep and winding. Rain, fog, motorcycles, pedestrians and night driving add risk.

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Wear seat belts and do not drive after alcohol consumption.
• Avoid night driving outside Kigali whenever possible.
• Slow down on wet, steep and winding roads.
• Watch for pedestrians, bicycles, motorbike taxis and animals.
• For longer tours, use an experienced driver or reputable tour company.

Wildlife and nature safety

• Follow ranger and guide instructions in all national parks.
• Never feed, touch or approach wild animals.
• Stay inside your vehicle unless a guide specifically says otherwise.
• Use licensed guides and official permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
• Wear life jackets when supplied for lake and boat activities.
• Use a torch after dark at safari lodges and forest camps.

Official travel advice

• UK travel advice for Rwanda
• U.S. travel advisory for Rwanda
• Australia travel advice for Rwanda
• Germany travel advice for Rwanda
• Austria travel information for Rwanda
• Switzerland travel advice for Rwanda

4. Emergency Contacts

Emergency numbers in Rwanda

• General emergency number: 112
• Police emergency: 112
• Medical emergency and ambulance: 112 or 912
• Fire and rescue: 111
• Traffic accidents: 113
• Traffic police: 118
• Child helpline: 116
• Gender-based violence support: 3512

Rwanda’s central emergency number is 112. The OSAC security report also identifies 112 as the country’s emergency line and notes that Rwanda National Police operates an online crime-reporting portal. [564]

Important travel contacts

• Rwanda Development Board / tourism: +250 788 313 222
• Rwanda Immigration general enquiries: +250 788 152 222
• Online visa enquiries: +250 726 791 803
• Immigration call centre: 9090
• Kigali International Airport: +250 252 596 000
• King Faisal Hospital Kigali: +250 788 307 561
• Rwanda Military Hospital: +250 788 306 706

Rwanda’s immigration authority lists 9090 as its call centre and provides +250 726 791 803 for ordinary and online visa enquiries. [565]

Emergency planning checklist

• Save 112, your insurer’s assistance number, hotel contact and embassy details before arrival.
• Store hotel addresses, park names and location pins offline.
• Carry passport copies, insurance information and essential medication separately from originals.
• Share long-distance travel plans with a trusted person.
• Keep gorilla permits, guide contacts and transfer details available offline.
• Contact your insurer promptly after serious illness, an accident or hospital admission.

5. Embassies & Consular Help

Consular assistance

Kigali hosts many diplomatic missions. Contact your embassy or consulate if you lose your passport, are arrested, experience a serious accident, become seriously ill or require emergency travel documents.

Useful embassy links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda
• U.S. Embassy Kigali
• British High Commission Kigali
• Embassy of Germany in Kigali
• Austrian Embassy Nairobi, responsible for Rwanda
• Swiss representation for Rwanda
• High Commission of Canada in Kigali

U.S. Embassy Kigali

• Address: 2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie, Kacyiru, Kigali.
• Telephone: +250 252 596 400.
• Emergency: +250 252 596 400, then dial 1.
• Email: Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein..

The U.S. travel advisory lists the embassy at 2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie in Kacyiru, Kigali, with telephone number +250 252 596 400. [563]

Check the current opening hours, emergency procedures and appointment requirements directly with your own embassy before travel.

6. Country, Culture & Etiquette

Country overview

Rwanda is a landlocked East African country bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its landscape includes volcanic mountains, rainforest, rolling highlands, lakes, wetlands and the savannah of Akagera National Park.

Rwanda’s recent history includes the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The country places strong importance on remembrance, reconciliation, stability, development and conservation. Visitors are welcome at memorial sites but should approach them with sensitivity and respect.

Languages, religion and culture

• Official languages: Kinyarwanda, English, French and Swahili.
• Kinyarwanda: The principal everyday language across the country.
• English: Widely used in tourism, education, business and government.
• French: Also commonly understood in many settings.
• Religion: Christianity is the largest religious tradition, alongside Muslim and other communities.
• Culture: Dance, drumming, basket weaving, Imigongo art, coffee, tea and community life are central cultural expressions.

Respectful behaviour

• Greet people politely before asking questions or starting a transaction.
• Dress respectfully in towns, villages, religious sites and memorial locations.
• Ask before photographing people, homes, markets, ceremonies or religious places.
• Be especially respectful at genocide memorials and during remembrance periods.
• Avoid simplistic, inflammatory or insensitive ethnic and political comments.
• Respect wildlife, national-park regulations and community-tourism rules.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Rwanda lies close to the Equator but its altitude gives much of the country a milder climate than many tropical destinations. Conditions vary between Kigali, the high volcano region, Nyungwe Forest, Lake Kivu and low-lying Akagera National Park.

Seasons and best timing

• Long dry season: Usually June to September; often preferred for gorilla trekking and safaris.
• Short rainy season: Commonly October to November.
• Short dry season: Often December to February.
• Long rainy season: Usually March to May, with greener scenery and muddier trekking conditions.
• Gorilla trekking: Possible year-round, although trails can be easier in drier months.

What to pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for Kigali and lower elevations.
• Warm layers for early mornings, evenings and the Volcanoes National Park area.
• A waterproof jacket, poncho and dry bag for rain and trekking.
• Waterproof hiking boots with strong grip for forest trails.
• Long trousers, long-sleeved shirts and gloves for gorilla trekking.
• A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Weather and environmental risks

• Heavy rain can affect roads, trekking trails and access to remote areas.
• Forest paths can become muddy, slippery and physically demanding.
• Strong UV exposure is possible even in cool or cloudy conditions.
• Fog and cloud can affect visibility, road travel and flight schedules.
• Temperatures can differ significantly between Kigali, Musanze, Nyungwe and Akagera.

8. Language, SIM Cards & Internet

Languages

• Kinyarwanda: Main national and everyday language.
• English: Widely useful in hotels, tourism, business and government.
• French: Commonly used and understood in many settings.
• Swahili: Important for regional communication and trade.

Useful phrases

• Hello: Muraho
• How are you? Amakuru?
• Thank you: Murakoze
• Please: Nyabuneka
• Yes: Yego
• No: Oya
• Goodbye: Murabeho
• How much is this? Ni angahe?
• Please help me: Mfasha, nyabuneka.

Mobile data and connectivity

Mobile coverage is generally good in Kigali and many towns, but can be limited in remote forest, park and mountain areas. Download maps, permits and important documents before travelling to national parks.

• Major mobile providers include MTN Rwanda and Airtel Rwanda.
• Buy a local SIM card only from an official outlet and carry your passport for registration.
• Download offline maps for Kigali, Musanze, Nyungwe, Akagera and Lake Kivu.
• Carry a power bank for transfers, safari drives and trekking days.
• Use public Wi-Fi cautiously and avoid sensitive financial activity on unsecured networks.

9. Electricity & Plug Types

Power supply in Rwanda

• Voltage: 230 V.
• Frequency: 50 Hz.
• Plug types: Type C and Type J are common; other socket types can occasionally appear.

Adapters and power outages

Travellers from much of continental Europe can often use Type C plugs, but a universal adapter remains useful. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and countries using different plugs will generally need an adapter.

• Bring a universal travel adapter.
• Carry a power bank, spare charging cable and small torch.
• Power interruptions can occur, particularly outside Kigali and in rural lodges.
• Most phones, cameras and laptops support 100–240 V; confirm the label on your charger.

10. Money, Cards & Costs

Currency

Rwanda uses the Rwandan franc (RWF). Cash is useful for markets, small shops, local transport, tips and rural locations. Cards are more frequently accepted in Kigali, major hotels, restaurants and high-end safari lodges.

Check the current exchange rate: XE Currency Converter for RWF.

Cards, ATMs and cash

• Visa and Mastercard are increasingly accepted in larger hotels, lodges and restaurants.
• Cash remains important outside Kigali and established tourism centres.
• ATMs are available in Kigali and regional towns but can be limited in remote areas.
• Use ATMs at banks, secure hotels or guarded shopping centres where possible.
• Use official banks and exchange bureaux rather than informal money changers.
• Carry small RWF notes for tipping, markets and local transport.

Price level

Rwanda can be affordable for local meals, city transport and basic accommodation, but gorilla permits, luxury lodges, private guides, safari activities and domestic flights can be expensive. Gorilla trekking should be booked early and budgeted as a major part of the trip.

Tipping

• Tipping is appreciated but not universally expected.
• In restaurants, a small tip or around 5–10% may be suitable if service is not included.
• Guides, drivers, porters and lodge staff commonly receive tips for good service.
• Porters on gorilla treks are often tipped, though tipping remains voluntary.
• Ask your lodge or operator whether it uses a staff tip box or individual tipping system.

11. Arrival & Transport

Main airport

Kigali International Airport (KGL) is Rwanda’s primary international gateway. It lies east of central Kigali and connects Rwanda with regional and international hubs in Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

• Kigali International Airport: Main airport for international arrivals.
• Kamembe Airport: Smaller airport in western Rwanda, used for selected domestic connections.
• RwandAir: Rwanda’s national airline, operating regional and international routes.

Useful links: RwandAir · Rwanda Airports

Getting around Rwanda

Rwanda is geographically compact but very hilly. Road journeys can take longer than maps suggest because of winding routes, weather and traffic. Private drivers or established tour operators are usually the most practical choice for multi-day itineraries and national-park travel.

• Private drivers: Practical for national parks, airport transfers and multi-day routes.
• Car hire: Possible, but mountain roads and rural conditions require confidence and planning.
• Motorcycle taxis: Widely used in towns; wear a helmet and use reputable drivers.
• Taxis: Available in Kigali; agree the fare or use a verified service.
• Buses: Affordable intercity option but less flexible for safari and trekking itineraries.
• Domestic flights: Limited but useful for selected routes.

Driving guidance

• Drive on the right.
• Avoid night driving outside Kigali where possible.
• Take extra care on wet, foggy and winding mountain roads.
• Use a suitable vehicle and an experienced driver for Akagera and remote areas.
• Carry water, cash, a charged phone and power bank on long drives.
• Plan international crossings to Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi or the DRC only after checking current rules and security.

Indicative routes

• Kigali to Musanze: Usually around 2–3 hours, depending on weather and traffic.
• Kigali to Akagera: Several hours depending on the park entrance and road conditions.
• Kigali to Nyungwe: A long scenic transfer, often planned as a full travel day.
• Musanze to Volcanoes National Park: Short transfer to trekking briefing points.

12. Accommodation & Practical Planning

Accommodation types

• International hotels: Primarily available in Kigali.
• Boutique hotels: Found in Kigali, Musanze, Lake Kivu towns and regional centres.
• Safari lodges: Available near Akagera, Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Park.
• Eco-lodges: Nature-oriented stays in forests, mountains and lake regions.
• Guesthouses: Often lower-cost and locally operated.
• Community accommodation: Useful for locally connected cultural experiences.

Where to stay

• Kigali – Kiyovu: Central location, hotels, restaurants and good access around the city.
• Kigali – Kacyiru: Quieter diplomatic area with upscale accommodation.
• Musanze: Main base for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
• Lake Kivu – Rubavu/Gisenyi: Lakefront stays, relaxation and access to western Rwanda.
• Nyungwe: Rainforest, chimpanzees, birdwatching and canopy walks.
• Akagera: Safari lodges and access to Rwanda’s savannah national park.

Practical planning

• Book gorilla permits and popular lodges far in advance.
• National-park activities have fixed departure and briefing times, often early in the morning.
• ATMs, pharmacies and supermarkets can be limited outside Kigali and larger towns.
• Buy water, snacks, medicine, rain gear and cash before visiting remote areas.
• Arrange airport transfers through your hotel or a reputable operator, particularly for late arrivals.
• Build extra time into your itinerary during rainy periods.

Shopping and souvenirs

• Kigali City Market: Food, clothing, household goods and everyday city life.
• Caplaki Craft Village: Baskets, carvings, paintings and locally made souvenirs.
• Imigongo art: Traditional geometric artwork from eastern Rwanda.
• Agaseke baskets: Handwoven baskets and decorative crafts.
• Rwandan coffee and tea: Popular, high-quality gifts.
• Ethical shopping: Do not buy ivory, wildlife products or protected cultural objects.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Rwandan food culture

Rwandan cuisine centres on beans, plantains, potatoes, cassava, sweet potatoes, maize, vegetables, peanuts and regional meat or fish dishes. Kigali also has an expanding restaurant scene with Rwandan, East African, Indian, French and international food.

Typical dishes

• Isombe: Cassava leaves, often cooked with peanut sauce and served with a staple accompaniment.
• Ugali: Firm maize meal served with vegetables, stews or sauces.
• Ibihaza: Pumpkin dishes, commonly served with beans or vegetables.
• Brochettes: Grilled meat, fish or vegetable skewers.
• Akabenz: Fried pork, popular in local restaurants.
• Matoke: Cooked plantains served in several styles.
• Lake Kivu fish: Fresh local fish, often grilled or fried.
• Beans and greens: Fundamental components of many everyday meals.

Drinks

• Rwandan coffee from local growing regions.
• Black tea and tea-plantation products.
• Fresh mango, passionfruit and pineapple juice.
• Local beers including Primus, Mützig and Skol.
• Milk-based and banana drinks in some regions.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

• Choose freshly cooked food from established restaurants and busy venues.
• Ask about peanuts, fish, dairy, stock and spices if you have allergies.
• Vegetarian options are widely available in Kigali and many lodges.
• Tell safari lodges in advance about vegan, gluten-free or medical dietary needs.
• Carry snacks for long transfer days and trekking excursions.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

• Time zone: Central Africa Time, UTC+2.
• Daylight saving time: Rwanda does not observe daylight saving time.
• Central Europe: Rwanda is one hour ahead in European winter and the same time during Central European Summer Time.
• United Kingdom: Rwanda is two hours ahead in UK winter and one hour ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

• New Year’s Day: 1 January.
• National Heroes’ Day: 1 February.
• Genocide against the Tutsi Memorial Day: 7 April.
• Good Friday and Easter Monday: Dates vary annually.
• Labour Day: 1 May.
• Independence Day: 1 July.
• Liberation Day: 4 July.
• Umuganura harvest festival: Date may vary.
• Assumption Day: 15 August.
• Christmas Day: 25 December.
• Boxing Day: 26 December.

Banks, government offices and some businesses may close or operate reduced hours on public holidays. Book gorilla permits, park transfers and domestic flights early around holiday periods.

15. Attractions & National Parks

Kigali

• Kigali Genocide Memorial: Major memorial and educational centre about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
• Kigali city: Clean, hilly capital with cafés, markets, art and a modern urban atmosphere.
• Inema Arts Center: Contemporary Rwandan art and cultural events.
• Nyamirambo: Lively neighbourhood known for textiles, markets and local city life.
• Kigali Convention Centre: Major architectural landmark.
• Caplaki Craft Village: Art, crafts and souvenirs.

Gorillas and volcanoes

• Volcanoes National Park: Rwanda’s flagship mountain-gorilla trekking destination.
• Golden monkey trekking: Guided encounters with golden monkeys in the volcano region.
• Musanze Caves: Volcanic caves and guided nature experiences.
• Dian Fossey legacy: Historic connection to international gorilla research and conservation.
• Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi: Volcano hikes for fit, well-prepared travellers.

Rainforest and primates

• Nyungwe National Park: Ancient rainforest with primates, endemic birds and hiking trails.
• Chimpanzee trekking: Guided tracking of chimpanzees in forest habitat.
• Canopy Walk: Suspended walkway above the rainforest canopy.
• Colobus monkey trekking: Opportunity to see large troops of colobus monkeys.
• Tea plantations: Scenic agricultural landscapes in south-western Rwanda.

Safari, lakes and landscapes

• Akagera National Park: Savannah, lakes, rivers and Big Five safari opportunities.
• Lake Kivu: Relaxation, boat trips, coffee country and scenic shoreline.
• Rubavu/Gisenyi: Lakefront town with restaurants and access to western Rwanda.
• Karongi/Kibuye: Quieter Lake Kivu base with islands and beautiful views.
• Congo Nile Trail: Multi-day hiking and cycling route along Lake Kivu.
• Rugezi Marsh: Northern wetland for birdwatching and nature travel.

Official tourism, permit and national-park information: Visit Rwanda.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Kigali has Rwanda’s broadest nightlife scene, with restaurants, rooftop bars, cafés, live music, lounges and cultural venues. Elsewhere, evenings tend to be quieter, focused on lodge dining, Lake Kivu sunsets or safari-camp experiences.

• Kigali – Kiyovu: Central hotels, restaurants and bars.
• Kigali – Kimihurura: Contemporary dining, cafés and nightlife.
• Kigali – Nyamirambo: Local culture, music and lively neighbourhood atmosphere.
• Lake Kivu: Relaxed lakeside restaurants and evening views.
• Safari lodges: Lodge bars, fireside evenings and early schedules for wildlife activities.

Festivals and events

• Kwita Izina: Annual gorilla-naming ceremony and conservation event.
• KigaliUp: Music and cultural festival, subject to current scheduling.
• FESPAD: Pan-African dance festival, subject to programme confirmation.
• Umuganura: Traditional harvest and thanksgiving festival.
• Kwibuka: National remembrance period around 7 April.
• Independence and Liberation Day events: Celebrations around early July.

Dates may change. Check current programmes through accommodation providers, local organisers or Visit Rwanda.

17. Useful Links & Media

Official travel and tourism information

• www.travelplanet.cc
• Visit Rwanda
• Rwanda Development Board
• Rwanda Immigration and Emigration
• Government of Rwanda
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
• RwandAir

Official travel advice

• UK travel advice for Rwanda
• U.S. travel advisory for Rwanda
• Australia travel advice for Rwanda
• Germany travel advice for Rwanda
• Austria travel information for Rwanda
• Switzerland travel advice for Rwanda

Maps, videos and current news

• Google Maps: Rwanda
• Image search: Rwanda and Gorilla Trekking
• YouTube: Rwanda Travel Guide
• YouTube: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Guide
• Google News: Rwanda

Local and international media

• The New Times Rwanda
• KT Press Rwanda
• Rwanda Broadcasting Agency
• BBC News: Africa
• RFI: Africa