Table of Contents
Introduction
Rwanda was the first stop on our East Africa adventure, and it surprised me in every way possible. It is known for the “Land of a Thousand Hills” and honestly once you visit you will totally understand why. The country is a land locked country that has such deep, raw and dark history. Although I travelled across East Africa over two weeks and a bit I only managed to spend 5 days in Rwanda. Looking back now I would have liked to stay longer. This Rwanda travel guide blends things to eat, do and where to stay in Rwanda.
I came not just as a food lover, but also as someone deeply moved by history and natural beauty. One day, we stood in solemn reflection at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum; the next, we were doing our hair in beautiful Fulani braids.
We trekked through lush bamboo forest to Gorilla country in Volcanoes National Park, sampled fresh ikivuguto from happy locals, and wandered Nyamirambo’s lively markets. If you’re planning a trip that’s equal parts delicious and deeply resonant, this is your roadmap. If you are looking for some Rwanda travel tips then use this as your Rwanda travel guide PDF.
About Rwanda
Rwanda is located in East Africa and is a landlocked country. As mentioned, it’s a land locked country sharing borders with countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is relatively easy to cross borders depending on where and when you travel. Rwanda is also known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the tragic history of the 1994 genocide.
Rwanda Entry Requirement
If you travel to Rwanda, check the ‘Entry Requirements’ section for Rwanda’s current entry restrictions and requirements. British citizens do not need to pay for a visa to travel to Rwanda. However, Americans, Canadians and Nigerians do need a visa. I recommend applying online before arrival and printing out your documents. You can book your visas here.
Where to Stay in Rwanda
I stayed at the Onomo Hotel, a stylish and centrally located spot that made exploring the city super convenient. It has a stunning infinity pool that allows you to see over the city. The hotel had a beautiful mix of modern design and local flair. And great food. You can book the hotel here.
There are a number of local hotels to choose from in Kigali which you will see in the map below:
5-day Rwanda Travel itinerary
Below is a Rwanda travel itinerary of what I did and you could do over 5 days:
- Got my hair braided: If you need to get your hair done by @thehaircaretakers – tell her I sent you! I got myself some cute braids with a false finish. I have started getting my hair done a lot now since Nigeria.
- Rwandan cooking class: We made sweet potatoes, mixed cabbage, dodo, and cassava. You can check it out via my IG page. You can book this here.
- Visit Nyungwe National Park, which offers a range of activities, including canopy walking and attractions for nature enthusiasts and visitors interested in experiencing Rwanda’s natural beauty. N.B. You will need to take a COVID-19 test to ensure the wildlife is protected. You can book your tour here.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial: the most emotional memorial I visited, which shares the tragic history of the Rwandan Genocide of 1994 while also emphasising the importance of preventing similar atrocities in the future. You can book your tour here.
- Kimironko Market: This is one of Kigali’s largest and most bustling markets. It offers various goods, including clothing, textiles, electronics, and household items etc.
What to eat in Rwanda
Rwanda is very interesting because the local food is located in very local areas. In many tourist areas, they don’t eat the local food. I found the Repub Lounge to be good for local Rwandan food.
If you would like to try traditional Rwandan dishes, you might find “isombe” (cassava leaves stew), “ibitoke” (grilled bananas), and “brochettes” (grilled skewers of meat) with chilli pepper (my fave). I have done a small food guide on Rwanda, which you can find here.
Travelling from Rwanda to Uganda
After leaving Rwanda, we headed to Uganda. A Rwanda travel tips that I have to share is that I would suggest jetting off early, say around 6 a.m., for your trip to Uganda. In Rwanda, it’s about 2 hours to the border. You will then need to check if you need visas for your passport for the following location a visa with a British passport, which I applied for online. You can book yours here.
Helpful Resources & Rwanda Travel Tips
- My Instagram page has detailed reels where I share Rwanda travel tips. I also share tips on travelling to Africa here.
- Before going to Rwanda I recommend visiting the Foreign Advice Page for U.K. travellers. Check if you need visas here.
- Book with Viator or Get YourGuide if you want specific tours. I did this for my Cooking Class on the last day which you can read about here.
- Get travel insurance, I recommend anyone travelling should have travel insurance which you can get via SafetyWing here.
- I used Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279 for a discount.
Final Views on Rwanda
Rwanda was my first ever East African country and I have to say it gave me so much more than I expected. From the food that filled my belly to moments that moved my spirit. It’s a country of quiet resilience, bold flavours, and beautiful contrasts. It’s a country with such raw history and depth. I have to admit I cried learning about the Genocide that occurred in 1994. It was history that I’m glad I learnt about and will know forever.
Whether you’re diving into history at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, tucking into smoky brochettes at a roadside spot, then Rwanda is for you. When I go back I will be sure to join the gorilla trek, because it does look truly amazing.
Rwanda left a mark on me. If you’ve never considered it as a travel destination, I hope this Rwanda travel guide helps you to go.
And if you are planning an East African Tour then check out A East Africa Food Travel Guide: Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania.
If this Rwanda travel guide inspired you to explore Rwanda, then subscribe to the blog so you never miss an update. Want more travel tips? Visit the Travel Resources, where I have a number of freebies for you.
Speak soon,
Adebola MBV
