Can I charter a helicopter in Rwanda?

Can I Charter a Helicopter in Rwanda?

Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, is one of Africa’s most scenic and geographically diverse destinations. With rolling green landscapes, mist-covered volcanoes, shimmering lakes, ancient rainforests, and sweeping savannahs, the country offers breathtaking beauty from every angle. While road travel in Rwanda is smooth and scenic, many travelers—especially luxury tourists, honeymoon couples, business executives, filmmakers, and high-end safari guests—often ask: “Can I charter a helicopter in Rwanda?”

The answer is yes. Rwanda offers excellent helicopter charter services, operated by professional aviation companies that provide safe, fast, and spectacular travel across the country. Helicopter charters have become a popular way to reach major destinations such as Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera National Park, Lake Kivu, and remote scenic viewpoints that are difficult or time-consuming to reach by road. Helicopters not only offer convenience and speed but also turn the journey into an unforgettable part of your adventure, giving you panoramic views of Rwanda’s dramatic terrain.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about helicopter charters in Rwanda—from aviation companies and destinations to pricing, safety, benefits, and the kinds of travelers who choose to fly.

Why Charter a Helicopter in Rwanda?

Chartering a helicopter in Rwanda is not just about transportation—it is an experience. Here’s why so many travelers choose to fly across the country:

1. Faster Travel Between National Parks

Rwanda’s national parks are spread across different regions. While the road network is excellent, drives can take several hours. Helicopters reduce travel time dramatically.

Examples:
Kigali to Volcanoes National Park: ~25 minutes (instead of ~2.5 hours)
Kigali to Nyungwe Forest: ~45 minutes (instead of ~5 hours)
Kigali to Akagera National Park: ~35 minutes (instead of ~2.5 hours)
Kigali to Lake Kivu: ~30 minutes (instead of ~3 hours)

For travelers on tight schedules, especially luxury visitors and executives, helicopters provide priceless time savings.

2. Scenic Aerial Views

From the air, Rwanda’s landscapes are magical. Helicopter flights offer dramatic views of:

Terraced hills
Volcanoes and calderas
Crater lakes
Tea plantations
Nyungwe rainforest canopy
Akagera’s savannah plains
Lake Kivu’s archipelagos

The entire country becomes a photographic experience unlike anything seen from the ground.

3. Luxury and Comfort

High-end travelers often prefer the comfort and exclusivity of helicopter transfers. Luxury lodges such as Singita Kwitonda, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, and One&Only Nyungwe House frequently coordinate heli transfers for guests seeking seamless comfort.

4. Accessibility

Some remote locations in Rwanda are difficult or time-consuming to reach by road. Helicopters offer easy access to:

Private lodges
Exclusive mountaintop destinations
Remote filming areas
High-end conservation sites

For those who want to explore Rwanda’s hidden landscapes, helicopters make the impossible possible.

5. Perfect for Honeymoons and Special Occasions

A helicopter ride adds romance and elegance to any honeymoon or celebration. Couples enjoy private scenic flights over volcanoes and lakes, creating unforgettable memories.

6. Ideal for Wildlife Photographers and Filmmakers

Helicopters allow content creators to capture stunning aerial footage, making them highly valuable for film projects, documentaries, and photography expeditions.

Which Companies Offer Helicopter Charters in Rwanda?

Rwanda has a small but highly professional helicopter aviation sector. The primary operator is Akagera Aviation, the leader in private aviation and helicopter services in the country.

Akagera Aviation

Akagera Aviation operates a fleet of helicopters that include:

AgustaWestland AW119 Koala
AgustaWestland AW139
Robinson R44
Airbus AS350

These aircraft are known for reliability, comfort, and excellent performance in Rwanda’s terrain and climate.

Services Offered:

Private transfers
Aerial tours
Aerial filming and photography
VIP transport
Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
Corporate charters
Scenic flights over national parks

Akagera Aviation pilots are highly trained, the safety standards are world class, and the company is trusted by luxury lodges, international organizations, and elite travelers.

Where Can Helicopters Fly in Rwanda?

Helicopters can reach almost any part of Rwanda. The most popular helicopter charter destinations include:

1. Volcanoes National Park

This is the most requested destination for helicopter transfers. Helicopters land near the luxury lodges or at the main helipad in Kinigi. This option is ideal for:

Gorilla trekking
Golden monkey trekking
Honeymoon stays
Luxury lodge arrivals

Instead of driving 2.5 hours, travelers fly in just 25 minutes.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, but it sits in Rwanda’s southwestern corner. Helicopters shorten travel time from 5–6 hours by road to just 45 minutes.

Perfect for visitors heading to:
One&Only Nyungwe House
Chimpanzee trekking
Canopy walks
Tea plantation tours

3. Akagera National Park

Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is a classic Big Five safari destination. Helicopter transfers take only 30–35 minutes and offer spectacular views over savannah plains and lakes.

Ideal for guests heading to:
Wilderness Magashi Camp
Ruzizi Tented Lodge
Akagera game drives

4. Lake Kivu: Rubavu, Karongi, and Rusizi

Lake Kivu’s towns are popular honeymoon and relaxation spots. Helicopters offer scenic access to:

Cleo Lake Kivu Hotel
Lake Kivu Serena
Cyangugu lakeside lodges

Flights offer incredible aerial views of islands, peninsulas, and crystal-blue water.

5. Kigali City Scenic Flights

Travelers can also book short helicopter tours to see Kigali from above—its beautifully terraced hills, green belts, and modern skyline make for incredible aerial images.

6. Private Charters to Remote Regions

Helicopters can be chartered for private landings in:

Isolated conservation areas
Luxury private estates
Filming locations
Mountain summits
Rural communities

This flexibility makes Rwanda one of Africa’s most helicopter-friendly destinations.

What to Expect During a Helicopter Charter

A helicopter charter in Rwanda is a smooth, professional, and enjoyable experience.

Before the Flight

Guests arrive at the Kigali International Airport helipad or at a hotel/lodge helipad.
A pilot briefing covers:

Safety
Flight route
Weather
Duration
Landing points

Luxury guests often have dedicated airport assistance.

During the Flight

Expect:

Panoramic windows
Smooth takeoff
Headsets for communication
Professional commentary from the pilot
Photo opportunities
Comfortable seating

The experience is both thrilling and peaceful.

After Landing

Guests are met by lodge staff or private guides for seamless transfer to accommodations or activities.

How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Helicopter in Rwanda?

Prices vary based on the aircraft type and destination, but common estimates include:

Kigali to Volcanoes National Park: $1,500–$3,000 one-way
Kigali to Nyungwe: $3,000–$4,500 one-way
Kigali to Akagera: $1,800–$3,500 one-way
Scenic tours (20–40 minutes): $1,200–$2,500 per flight
Private full-day charter: custom pricing

Costs are typically per helicopter—not per person—making it ideal for couples, families, or groups of up to 6 passengers.

Who Should Consider Chartering a Helicopter in Rwanda?

Luxury travelers

Honeymooners

Photographers & filmmakers

Executives and business travelers

Groups with limited time

Travelers seeking exclusive experiences

Visitors staying at high-end lodges

Helicopter charters deliver comfort, privacy, time savings, and extraordinary scenery.

Are Helicopter Charters Safe in Rwanda?

Yes. Rwanda’s helicopter services maintain high safety standards:

Highly trained pilots
Regular aircraft maintenance
Strict aviation regulations
Modern helicopter models
Professional ground staff

Akagera Aviation is internationally certified and trusted by governments, celebrities, and conservation organizations.

Why Helicopter Flights Transform Your Trip

A helicopter flight turns your safari into a cinematic experience. Imagine flying over:

Volcanoes rising from misty forests
Crater lakes glowing emerald
Rwanda’s endless green hills
Savannah plains dotted with wildlife
Rainforest canopies stretching to the horizon

It is one of the most beautiful ways to experience the country.