Rwanda Safari: The Journey Begins
Situated a brief journey from Kigali, Kigali International Airport stands as Rwanda’s primary gateway. Direct flights to Rwanda are available from Dubai, Doha, Johannesburg, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Brussels, along with Lusaka, Entebbe, Harare, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi. Airlines that operate at Kigali International Airport include Qatar Airways, KLM, Turkish Airlines, along with Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines.
Exploring the Ways: Transport in Rwanda
Given Rwanda’s small stature, the longest drive between key attractions is around four to five hours. Overall, the state of the main roads is favorable, allowing for safe travel. Secondary roads frequently resemble rugged dirt paths that demand a 4×4 vehicle and can turn into challenging obstacles during the rainy seasons.
Transfers within Rwanda typically involve 4×4 vehicles, but you can also opt for a helicopter transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park.
For a secure journey through the city, choose the official Kigali buses and the licensed orange-striped taxis. Be sure to check the fare before you embark on your journey, and while they can add excitement, motorcycle taxis and minibuses come with their own risks. Driving after dark can be quite risky due to dimly lit roads, unexpected pedestrians, and wandering livestock.
Reliable car services are available for hire, and travel agencies and local hotels frequently offer options for private transport arrangements.
Rwanda Journey Durations & Distances
Rwanda is a compact country, and the travel distances are quite manageable. In just a few days, you can easily embark on an exhilarating journey that includes both Rwanda gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. Here are the distances and approximate travel times from the vibrant capital city, Kigali, to the four stunning national parks of Rwanda.
The journey from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park spans 105 km / 65 miles and takes about 2.5 hours by car.
The journey from Kigali to Akagera National Park spans 108 km / 67 miles and takes about 2.5 hours by car.
The journey from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park spans 209 km / 130 miles and takes about 5 hours or more to drive.
The journey from Kigali to Gishwati-Mukuru National Park spans 167 km / 104 miles, taking just under 4 hours by car.
Outfit Ideas for Rwanda Safaris
When embarking on a safari in Rwanda, it is essential to adhere to all the standard guidelines. Pack lightweight outdoor attire, consider layering to adapt to changing temperatures, and choose a neutral palette that steers clear of bright colors, white clothing, and anything that resembles military uniforms. Alongside these essential guidelines, be ready for the unexpected showers that frequently grace Rwanda, as the weather can be quite adventurous. Nearly every traveler to Rwanda embarks on a thrilling journey to go gorilla trekking, so here are some essential guidelines for this unforgettable experience.
When setting out on a Rwanda gorilla trekking journey, it is essential to don suitable attire for both ease and safeguarding. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are crucial for protecting yourself from the various challenges you may face, such as branches, thorns, and nettles that could appear along the trails. Durable waterproof hiking boots offer reliable support on frequently slick trails, especially in wet conditions, ensuring your feet stay dry. Sturdy gloves, such as gardening gloves, are essential for safeguarding your hands from nettles and scratches.
In a place where the weather can shift at a moment’s notice, having a rain jacket or poncho on hand will ensure you stay dry and cozy when the skies open up. Getting caught in the rain can put a damper on your journey, so having quick-drying outdoor clothing is essential, along with an extra set of dry clothes for a swift change, which is always a great advantage. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face from the elements, providing superior protection compared to a baseball cap. Insect repellent is essential to ward off pesky bugs and ensure a pleasant experience outdoors. Moreover, it is wise to bring along a cozy sweater or cardigan, since the mornings and evenings tend to have a cool breeze.
Steer clear of strong fragrances, as gorillas and chimpanzees possess a keen sense of smell and might shy away from unfamiliar scents. In the midst of a damp setting, safari socks crafted from cotton or wool offer enhanced comfort and safeguard for your feet.
