Travelling to Rwanda on Budget

Travelling to Rwanda on a Budget

Travelling to Rwanda on a budget is absolutely possible with smart planning. You can enjoy the country’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique wildlife experiences without breaking the bank. Strategies like booking budget accommodations, reserving in advance, joining group tours, travelling during off-peak seasons, and taking advantage of seasonal safari deals can help you maximize your experience while keeping costs low.

Rwanda, famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is increasingly attracting adventure seekers and wildlife lovers from all over the world. From gorilla trekking in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park to exploring the streets of Kigali, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy memorable experiences without overspending.

Book in Advance – Flights and Accommodation

Early reservations are crucial when travelling to Rwanda on a budget. Booking flights at least six months ahead can save you up to 40% on airfare. Use flight price trackers like Google Flights and Skyscanner to monitor rates. Mid-week flights are typically 15–20% cheaper than weekend ones.

The same applies to accommodations. Early booking allows you to secure the best rates on budget hotels, guesthouses, and hostels.

Join Group Tours

Joining group tours is one of the most effective ways to cut travel costs in Rwanda. Shared transport, guide fees, and park entry charges can significantly lower the overall cost of activities like gorilla trekking, which can be 20–30% cheaper when booked as a group. This is also a great way to meet fellow travelers and share experiences.

Plan Park Visits Strategically

Rwanda’s national parks are the highlight of any safari. To save money, consider buying multi-park passes instead of paying for each park separately. For example, combining visits to Akagera National Park and Nyungwe Forest can save up to 25% in park fees.

Some shorter gorilla treks are also available at reduced rates, making the experience more affordable for budget travelers.

Activities to Do on a Budget Safari in Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s signature wildlife experience. Volcanoes National Park, a biosphere reserve, is home to 12 habituated gorilla families including Amahoro, Umubano, Agashya, Hirwa, Karisimbi, and others. The park’s terrain is influenced by volcanic highlands such as Mount Gahinga, Muhavura, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi, and Bisoke. Trekking can be physically demanding as gorillas often roam the slopes of these mountains.

Other primates in the park include blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, vervet monkeys, and olive baboons. More than 200 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics, are also found here.

Current gorilla trekking permit costs:

• International non-residents: $1,500
• International residents: $500
• Other Africans: $500
• East Africans: $200

During the low season, permits may be discounted to around $1,050, although this is not guaranteed.

Budget accommodation options near Volcanoes National Park include guesthouses and small lodges in Kinigi and nearby towns.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park

Chimpanzee trekking is another top safari activity in Rwanda. Nyungwe National Park, located in the southwest near Lake Kivu, is home to two habituated chimpanzee communities — one in the park and another in Cyamudongo Forest.

The trek begins with a briefing at Uwinka headquarters, followed by guided walks along trails like Usamo and Igishigishigi. Along the way, visitors may spot other primates such as red-tailed monkeys, Dent’s mona monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, plus over 300 bird species.

Chimpanzee trekking permit costs:

• Foreign non-residents: $150
• Foreign residents: $75
• East Africans: $25

Game Safaris in Akagera National Park

Akagera offers a classic savannah safari experience. Game drives may reveal giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, rhinos, lions, and even the occasional leopard. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chances to see wildlife.

Boat safaris on Lake Ihema provide opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Sport fishing is also available on lakes like Shakani and Rwanyakazinga (permits required).

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkeys are rare and endangered, with an estimated 4,000 left in the wild. They live in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Playful and curious, they offer a lighter, more relaxed trekking experience compared to gorilla trekking.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe

The canopy walk is a thrilling way to experience Nyungwe from above. The suspension bridge is 160 meters long and hangs about 70 meters above the forest floor. From here, visitors enjoy panoramic forest views and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Cultural Tours

Rwanda’s culture is rich and vibrant. Visitors can experience traditional dance performances like the famous Intore dance, learn basket weaving, pottery, or visit the Ethnographic Museum in Huye. Kigali’s cultural centers and craft markets are also great places to connect with local traditions.

Kigali City Tour

Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and modern capital, is well worth exploring. Visit local markets, coffee shops, craft stores, and museums. Sample traditional Rwandan cuisine at local restaurants and enjoy the city’s warm hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

The dry seasons from June to September and January to February are the best for wildlife viewing and trekking. June to September is peak season with higher prices, while January and February offer good weather at lower costs.

Is Rwanda Safe to Visit?

Yes. Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa. It has low crime rates, political stability, and excellent infrastructure. Visitors generally report feeling safe and welcomed throughout their stay.

Getting There and Around

Most travelers arrive via Kigali International Airport, which has direct connections to major cities. Within Rwanda, comfortable buses, domestic flights, and organized tour transfers make it easy to reach different regions.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Binoculars
• Insect repellent
• Small first-aid kit
• Necessary vaccinations

Being prepared for varying mountain weather is essential, especially for trekking activities.