Like in any other country, Rwanda, one of the most visited countries in Africa, has restrictions at its borders and airport. Different border points can be used to enter Rwanda, such as the Cyanika and Katuna borders from Uganda, and Cyangugu and Goma borders from DR Congo. Rwanda has only one airport, Kigali International Airport.
These requirements are important for safety and security, protecting against threats like terrorism, diseases, and more.
Most of these requirements are similar to other countries, especially in East Africa. To have a great and memorable visit to Rwanda, follow these requirements, and you won’t regret it. Some of these are documents you need before arrival, while others can be arranged in Rwanda.
All tourists or travelers to the “land of a thousand hills” must have a valid passport with the correct details, including your name, passport number, and age. This document shows your true nationality, making it easier to trace you in case of any issues. Your passport should be valid for at least 4 months before its expiry date and must have a photo that matches your face.
A Rwanda visa or an East African visa can be issued on arrival and is valid for 90 days. You should use the same names as those on your passport. This visa is only for tourists and is valid for a short time.
People planning to stay in Rwanda for a long time are not given the East African Tourist Visa. The advantage of this visa is that it allows travel to other East African countries without problems.
This visa is for all visitors except citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Mauritius, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi.
Temporary documents can be issued to people who want to work in Rwanda, allowing them to get a work visa. Tourists, however, are given a tourist visa. East African citizens can use a valid national identity card or student ID if they don’t have a passport.
You are required to have received all the recommended doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. You must present a valid and original vaccination card, showing that you completed the doses at least 14 days before traveling to Rwanda. In some cases, you may need to take a PCR test upon arrival, which will allow you to access park premises.
A yellow fever vaccination card is also necessary, as East Africa has experienced outbreaks of yellow fever in the past. If you don’t have one, our company can help you get one easily, either through vaccination or proof of vaccination in your home country.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit Rwanda and enjoy activities like gorilla trekking and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest National Park, and a Kigali city tour to see the genocide memorial center, local markets, and more.
Other activities include hiking, visiting Dian Fossey’s grave, and exploring Akagera National Park, where you can go on game drives, boat cruises, and hot air balloon rides.
For those interested in culture, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you can experience Rwandan traditions through music, dance, and drama. You can also listen to African stories told by elders. Rwanda is known for its beautiful scenery, unique wildlife, and welcoming people, making it a perfect destination.
For easy access and great experiences in Rwanda, contact us—we are ready to help you plan your Rwandan trip.
