What to expect

LANGUAGE: Kinyarwanda is the national language of Rwanda, and the first language of almost the entire population of the country. French, English and Swahili are also national languages. English is spoken only by about 0.2 % of the population. It is recommended to learn some basic phrases in Kinyarwanda to get by. 

ELECTRICITY: In Rwanda the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. That’s the standard voltage (220-240V) in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa; If you are traveling from the US you will need an adaptor. However, the national electrification rate is estimated at 30% (12% in rural areas, 72% in urban areas)

CURRENCY: The Rwandan Franc is the currency of Rwanda. Dollars are widely used as well. Other foreign currencies, like dollars and euros, might be accepted in some tourist places and hotels but won’t be accepted in smaller establishments. You could exchange your money at the airport (recommended) or at exchange houses or banks, you could also withdraw from the ATM. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and big restaurants but cash is recommended for remote areas and small establishments, as there are very few ATM, if any out of the city. 1 USD equals 953.09 francs (as of 2020)

CLIMATE: Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with lower temperatures than average equatorial countries due to its high elevation. Average temperatures hover around 75°F in the lower mountains, and 55°F in the higher mountains. The best time visit would be from mid-May to mid-October, during dry season and as it has perfect conditions for tracking gorillas.

SAFETY: Rwanda is one of the safest destinations in Africa. Crime is relatively low, although petty crime still exists, especially at tourist attractions and crowded places like bus stations. Common sense is recommended just like anywhere else.