Travel Reminders

Rwanda is generally safe and has above-average infrastructure in East Africa, but activities like hiking in national parks and exploring lakeside areas have unique requirements. Preparing the right permits, gear, and understanding public order will make your trip much easier. The following points are listed by importance for you to check off before departure.

1. Book gorilla permits in advance: These are limited in number and expensive. Be sure to reserve them several months ahead through official authorized channels—never buy from private sellers.
2. Clothing and gear: On tracking days, wear long trousers and non-slip hiking boots, and bring a rain jacket and plenty of water, as hikes may last several hours.
3. Maintain distance: Stay at least 7 meters away from mountain gorillas. Do not participate if you have a cold or other respiratory illness to avoid spreading infection.
4. Respect the plastic ban: Do not bring single-use plastic bags into the country. Bring your own cloth or paper bags when shopping.
5. Note Umuganda: The last Saturday morning of each month is a community work day, during which some shops and services may be closed.
6. Respect memorial etiquette: When visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, remain solemn and observe photography restrictions in certain areas.
7. Drink safe water: Tap water is not safe to drink directly. Stick to bottled or treated water.
8. Carry cash: Cash is mainly used in national parks and rural areas. Bring small-denomination Rwandan francs for tips and small purchases.
9. Ask before taking photos: Always get permission before photographing local people. Do not take photos of military facilities or government buildings.
10. Emergency contacts: Keep local emergency numbers and the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate handy, and safeguard your valuables.
11. Emergency contacts: Keep local emergency numbers and the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate handy, and safeguard your valuables.

Additional Notes

Rwanda is one of the more tourism-developed countries in the Great Lakes region, with clean cities and overall good security. However, there are many rules for hiking in national parks and exploring lakeside areas, so always follow the guidance of your guides and staff. Local enforcement of plastic bans and environmental cleanliness is strict, and everything tourists do is visible to the public. Respecting the rules shows respect for local society and can also make your trip go more smoothly.

For your itinerary, it’s best to schedule your gorilla trekking—your most essential activity—during a time when you’re at your fittest and the weather is most stable. Link other attractions based on geographic proximity to avoid long drives over highland mountain roads. Before you go, double-check your permits, accommodation, and transport arrangements, and keep both digital and paper copies of your confirmations.