The process of hiring a car in Rwanda, especially for a first-timer is long and can be tiring since it involves a lot of research about the best company to hire from, the type of car you will need for your trip, the requirements for hire, and the modes of payment. Different companies have different policies but there are 5 Things You Need to Know About Rwanda Car Hire whether you have traversed Rwanda or are a first-time traveller there.

Essential Requirements

Before booking a car in Rwanda, the car rental company will ask you for a driver’s permit if you’re considering self-drive because you cannot drive in Rwanda without one. You’ll also be required to present a valid identification card or passport and sharing your personal information with the agent such as full name, phone number, and email address is mandatory for communication purposes.

Bear in mind that in order to drive in Rwanda according to the Rwanda traffic law, you must be 18 for categories A and B and above 20 years for categories C,D,E and F. Also important to note is that you may not be allowed to drive in Rwanda if you’re above 70 years old.

Traffic Rules and Guidelines

Again, if you’re considering to self drive in Rwanda, driving is on the right hand of the road. The speed limit is 40kmph in the cities and 60-80km on highways or provinces. Driving beyond these limits will get you a speeding ticket and you could be banned from driving in Rwanda again.

It is not advisable to drive at night especially if you’re on a safari trip. In Rwanda, there are speed cameras on certain points of the roads and there is an E-ticketing system that will issue you tickets for driving beyond the speed limit.

Car Insurance

It is important to know that different car hire companies have different insurance policies but in most cases, the third party insurance covers all damages in case of an accident.  However, if you are on a self-drive trip and cause damage to the car, you may be required to cover the cost of repairs according to company policies.

That’s why it is important to read and understand company policies and always inspect the car for any scratches or dents and have pictorial evidence before driving away. On the other hand, if you rent a car with a driver or chauffeur and it gets damaged, the car hire company is liable.

Pick up and Drop off Policies

In most cases, the car is picked up at the company’s premises /office and returned to the same place. Changing of drop-off location will result in extra fees for fuel. Also, pick up and drop off the car within the agreed time frame. Note that you will not be refunded for returning the car early but you’ll be charged extra for dropping off the car late.

In most cases, it is possible to extend the rental period as long as you commute with your agent in time.

Availability of a Wide Range of Vehicles

Rwanda Car Hire has a large fleet of vehicles and the customer gets to choose the type of car they want depending on their travel needs. The cars range from saloon cars to different 4×4 and larger vehicles.

4×4 vehicles are usually recommended for safari trips because they’re able to survive the rough terrain in the wilderness. If you plan to tour Kigali, a 2WD is recommended. There are automatic and manual cars depending on the customer’s preference.

Other things you should know about Rwanda Car Hire is that cars are charged on a daily or weekly basis with unlimited mileage and if you opt for self-drive, you are required to return the car with the same amount of fuel that was in the tank before you took it away.

It’s therefore important to check the fuel level of the car to avoid paying for fuel you did not use. By knowing these important things about Rwanda Car Hire, be sure to enjoy your car rental experience. Contact us to know more about the 5 Things You Need to Know About Rwanda Car Hire.

Car Hire in Rwanda has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering individuals and families an affordable and convenient way to travel. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, Renting a Car With a Driver can provide you with a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.

Renting a car with a driver or chauffeur offers many benefits for consumers, including hassle-free travel where you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads, finding parking, or dealing with traffic.

Since the driver knows all the routes, it is easy to get to your destination quicker hence saving time. Travelling with a chauffeur gives you comfort and a luxurious experience because they do all the navigation. Apart from driving, parking, and taking care of the car, a chauffeur is no less than a local guide since they know where to get the best food, the best hangout places, and many more.

In order to enjoy your chauffeur-driven car rental experience, you need to look out for some of the following things.

Proper Identification

Your car rental company should provide you with a chauffeur who has clear identification. It is your right to ask for the chauffeurs driving permit, his identification and other supporting documents you may require.

You can also go ahead and research the company’s safety record and reviews from previous customers about your driver.

Professionalism

Your driver must have a high level of professionalism and this includes politeness, punctuality, responsiveness, experience and so on. A professional chauffeur also has a clear road map on the routes to take for the convenience of the passengers.

In some cases, a second or third route will also be ready in their mind in cases of traffic congestion, accidents, etc. Chauffeurs must also have the skills of time management. Being locals or the ones driving across the same routes in the city, they are expected to drop the passengers on time.

All these can only be possible when the driver is professional enough to handle any kind of situation on the road.

Car Quality

Apart from the driving skills and professionalism, the car quality also determines your experience of car rental with a driver in Rwanda. While booking your car, always look for sample pictures on the website if you book through an online source. Sometimes the car that arrives to pick you up may not match the picture you had in mind.

In extreme cases you can always request your car rental agent for a replacement. Cleanliness and hygiene should never be compromised under any circumstances. Besides, a good chauffeur always maintains the cleanliness of his car.

Customer Care Service

The rental company from whom you hire a car with a driver must be reliable and responsive. This is where the importance of customer care services comes into play. Being on a road trip in a foreign country or city you may come across different situations.

Having someone apart from your driver to fall back upon is always a good way to ensure safety. Customer care services of reputed rental companies take responsibility for their cars, drivers, and passengers all throughout the rental timeline.

Appearance and Personality

Any reputable car rental company will not send you a driver that’s casually dressed. The driver should be dressed in the company’s uniform which should be neat and clean. Also, the personal hygiene of the chauffeur matters.

Some chauffeurs do not shower and have bad body odours which end up inconveniencing the customer. We can not forget the driver’s attitude. Choose a chauffeur with a friendly face because you don’t wish to travel with a grumpy driver. This is to make your trip comfortable and exciting.

By carefully looking out for the above things, be assured to have a comfortable and stress-free experience when you opt for renting a car With a driver.

The mountain gorilla (Gorilla Beringei) is listed as one of the most endangered species by the International Union for Conservative Nature (IUCN)as of 2018. Mountain gorillas are more like human beings; they are emotional, live in family groups, and kind of worry about the same things. Here is how to book Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Permits on a Self Drive Trip to Rwanda.

The Silverback is the dominant and leader of the group and makes sure everyone is fed and kept safe. The females take care of the babies and keep them safe. Rwanda is home to almost a third of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Forbes lists gorilla trekking as one of the greatest animal quests and identifies Rwanda as the leading gorilla trekking destination in the world.

Mountain Gorillas can be found in the Volcanoes National Park and a gorilla trekking permit is required to participate in this activity. Request your car rental company to self drive to Volcanoes National Park and once you get there, you will be taken to the park headquarters where you’re briefed, placed in groups according to your physical ability, and then head out into the wilderness guided by rangers who are on radio call way ahead of you.

Rwanda issues a maximum of 96 gorilla trekking tickets per day. The limited availability of gorilla permits keeps the demand high making the permit very expensive at 1500 dollars per person meaning those interested in the activity have to book way in advance before their trekking date.

It is advisable to book at least 6 months before your scheduled date because they run out really quickly and you don’t want to miss out on this adventure. There are two ways to obtain these permits.

Through Rwanda Development Board

Rwanda Development board is the governing body of tourism in Rwanda. To get the permit, visit their website and apply for it online. Requirements to get the permit include an Identification card, Visa and passport for international visitors. Residents of Rwanda only require an identification card.

RDB advises against making erroneous, incomplete or false applications and visitors with such shall not be allowed to enter the park even of they paid and acquired a system generated permit. The minimum age for obtaining this permit is 15 years. The prices for the permits are as follows:

• I500 US dollars for international visitors
• 500 US dollars for foreign residents in Rwanda
• 200 US dollars for Rwandan and any other East African citizen
• 500 US dollars for African Citizens outside the East African Community.

Through a Travel Agency

This is another option for booking a trekking permit. Browse the list of liable and licensed tour operators in Rwanda and choose one that best suits meets your expectations and needs. It is reliable to book through tour operators. The importance of booking through a travel agency is that they don’t stop at getting you the permit.

They will reserve your accommodation,  plan your visa, plan your transportation and show you other destinations in Rwanda.

Discounts on the permits are also available and this largely depends on the season.  It is hard to get a discount in the peak seasons of June to September.  However you might get one if you intend to trek for more than one day and if you’re also visiting Akagera and Nyungwe Forest National Parks. Ask your tour operators about these discounts.

Important to note is that gorilla trekking starts as early as early as 7:00 am but this can change according to the weather and gorilla family allocated to your group. Verification of tourist documents is done at the park gates.

RDB shall refund 50% of the gorilla tracking fee for any visitor showing signs of sickness and this only applies to visitors that have made it to the park. Sick visitors shall not be allowed to enter the park gates because gorillas easily get human diseases. Besides, it is a tiresome activity that requires one to be healthy and fit. Make sure you are well rested the day before since this activity can take even a whole day.

Travelers looking for flexibility and independence often opt for car hire. Whether you’re exploring the gorgeous Kigali City, the national parks, the beautiful Musanze Hills or going for a safari tour, Car Hire Rwanda allows you to create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace.

However, the process of hiring a car in Rwanda can be draining especially if it’s your first time in the country. It is easy to feel overwhelmed given the many options you have to choose from i.e car models, rental companies, and insurance policies.

That is why in this article, we take you through a comprehensive guide which will help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and stress free rental experience.

Select Your Date, Time, and Location.

The very first step to renting a car is determining when and where you’ll need it. When planning your trip, it is important to make a schedule. This includes your arrival at the airport, your hotel location, the places you’re going to visit and the time allocated to each destination.

Consider the duration of your trip as well as any other important activities that will require transportation. Choose a pickup location that is convenient for you and the car rental company should not be far away from your residence.

Identify Your Preferred Rental Company

With so many companies in the Rwanda Car Hire business, it is stressful to choose one. Use the Internet to identify the various car hire companies. Visit their websites,  social media platforms, and other channels to get reviews about them.

Reputable companies have a consistent online presence and mostly positive reviews from their past users. Also, consider referrals from friends and relatives, compare prices, and look out for the ones with the best deals. Also read about the various company terms, insurance policies, and rental agreements. Go with one that best suits your needs and budget.

Choose the Ideal Car

Having set your time, date, location, and chosen your car rental company, it is time to choose the car that best suits your needs. Rwanda car rental companies often have a fleet of vehicles to choose from so you need to consider the number of people you’re traveling with, the amount of luggage, and whether you will self-drive or need a chauffeur.

You also need to be specific about the features of your ideal car for instance sitting capacity, fuel consumption, and the style. If you’re going on a safari trip, you need a 4×4  vehicle because of the terrain and rough roads in most safari destinations but a 4×4 may not be necessary if you’re driving around Kigali City.

Also, consider your budget because as much as luxury cars are tempting, they’re often more expensive and come with additional charges. Choose the car category that provides your desired features at a price that’s not way out of your budget.

Recheck all the Information

It is very important to always double check information. Before finalising your car rental reservation, confirm the booking information to ensure that everything is accurate and meets your needs. Make sure that you have the required documents such as Identification cards, drivers license and passport.

Ensure that the rental category you selected is the one that you need for your trip. Check the vehicle type, size, and features, and double-check the car rental company to make sure that it’s your required choice. You also need to verify the pickup and drop-off locations, and the hours of operation in order to avoid surprises.

Review the insurance details to ensure that it provides the level of protection you need. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions, as well as any deductibles or exclusions and if you have added any optional items such as a GPS Navigation or child car seat, ensure that they are included in the reservation and that you have confirmed the pricing.

Provide Personal Information

Having confirmed your reservation details, the next step is filling in your personal information. This is necessary to secure your car rental and complete the reservation process.

You’ll be required to provide your full names phone number and email address. Since most companies require a deposit to secure your car, you’ll be required to choose your preferred payment option and provide your credit card details.

Make sure you understand the payment terms and any additional charges. If you have any special requests for instance disability access, inform you provider.

Payment

After providing your personal information and confirming your reservation, you’ll be prompted to the payment gateway. Since there are various modes of payment for car hires, choose the one that’s most convenient for you to complete the transaction. In Rwanda, you can pay for car hire in cash upon pick up, via Mobile money or credit card

Pick Up and Drop Off

This is the final step. Talk to your provider about your preferred pickup and drop-off time and location and inform them in case of any changes.

Visiting Rwanda is a very exciting experience given the beauty of the country and the culture of the people.  The best way to get around in Rwanda is by renting a car from a reputable company. If it’s your first-time self-driving or Renting a Car in Rwanda with a driver or chauffeur in Rwanda, there are some mistakes you’re most likely to make which will cost you a lot.

Even frequent traveller scan get hit with extra fees if they do not read the fine print when renting a car. In this article, we take you through some of the most common mistakes you’re likely to make when renting a car in Rwanda and how you can avoid them

Booking Through an Online Travel Agency

Booking through a third party may seem attractive because of the low-cost pricing but it comes at its own cost if things go wrong. That is why it’s advised to book your car directly with the rental company because this will save you the hassle of going through the online agency in case you need to make changes like altering your reservation or getting a refund.

Also Booking directly with a car rental company gives you access to earning/loyalty points and other benefits which you will not get if you book through an online travel agency.

Inadequate Insurance

One of the most important thing you need to look out for before hiring a car in Rwanda is Insurance. Since many travelers assume that all car rentals should have third-party insurance, you will be surprised if you hire a car in Rwanda and bring any damage to it.

That is when you’ll realize that their insurance policies are not clear and you end up paying heavily. To avoid this, read and understand the insurance plan or purchase any other necessary insurance coverage.

Forgetting the Necessary Documents

Many car rental companies will provide you with requirements for renting a car. Endeavour to read thoroughly in order to know exactly what they need. The most asked for documents include a valid drivers licence, an ID and passport for foreigners.

Check that your documents are not expired and do not forget to carry them with you to avoid any inconvenience

Picking up and Dropping off at Different Locations

This is one of the most common mistakes travellers make when hiring a car in Rwanda. Changing your rental’s drop off location from the pickup location can easily drive up the total cost even if the two locations are within easy driving distance. It may be convenient for you to drop off the car at a different location but it may not always be convenient for the rental company which will impose a hefty surcharge for the trouble.

Not Inspecting the Vehicle

Most times, we want to grab the car keys and hit the road but forget to thoroughly inspect the car. Check for any damages on the car including scratches and dents, take pictures or videos and make sure they’re documented by the agent. Also check the fuel tank to avoid paying for more fuel than you used.

Late Returns

Plan your trip and routes in advance before hiring a car. Making a schedule enables you to return the car within the given period. It also prevents you from going to unscheduled destinations that could take up your time. Should you exceed the given time of drop-off, communicate with the agent but avoid wasting time as much ad possible so that you’re not charged extra.

Ignoring Local Regulations

Different countries have different traffic rules and regulations. In Rwanda for instance, the speed limit is 80kmph on a highway whereas in the USA, the average limit is between 90-113kmph for most states. Also, driving in the UK is on the left side of the road whereas in Rwanda, it is on the right. As a visitor from the USA, UK, or any other state, it is important to inquire about relevant traffic laws from your car rental agent to avoid getting in trouble with the law.

Other mistakes to avoid include last-minute booking, exceeding vehicle capacity (overloading), driving in prohibited areas, not reading rental contracts, and ignoring hidden fees among others. Being aware of these potential car rental mistakes guarantees you a smooth car rental experience in Rwanda.

Renting a Car in Rwanda is the best way to move around in Rwanda just like booking a flight or making reservations at a hotel, it can be a hard task. The process of finding the right car hire company is hard since there are plenty of options to choose from and many of which are scammers.

It is also hard to navigate a new territory if you choose to self-drive. However, there are standard essential requirements you need to have to hire a car whether for self-drive or with a driver. We break them down for you in this article.

Valid Driver’s License

It is essential to have a driver’s license if you opt for a self-drive trip. This enables you to drive legally but Rwanda and also meets most Rwanda Car rental requirements. Make sure that your permit is valid, up to date and not a counterfeit because providing a fake one is a criminal offense and you could go to jail for committing fraud.

Security Deposit

A deposit is one of the most important requirements to rent a car since it is the main confirmation that you have booked and it will be available on the agreed day.

Ensure to book your car in advance because last-minute bookings are usually expensive, especially during the peak seasons. You can book your car using a credit card or any other form of payment that’s convenient for you

Clean Driving Record

Before renting a car for self-drive in Rwanda, you need to have a clean driving record with no past or recent convictions of reckless driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Note that car rental companies do background checks on their customers so these records can render your license invalid.

Identification

Whether you’re renting a car with a chauffeur or self-drive, it is important to have an identification card and you may be required to provide a copy of your passport. You will also be required to provide your personal information for example home address, phone number, email address, and next of kin.

All this is for safety and communication purposes.

Emergency Kits and Personal Medications

Renting a car for a trip comes with uncertainties and these can include flat tires, accidents, insect hires, allergies, and health deterioration for people with underlying medical issues.

It is important to pack emergency kits to help you in times of crisis. These can include jumper cables, tyre repair kits, basic first aid supplies, Insect repellents, mosquito nets, umbrellas, gumboots, jackets, rain coats among others. Also, have an emergency contact which should be noted down.

Cameras

You can never go on a safari trip and not carry a camera! From the scenic landscapes to unexpected road side attractions, you’ll want to preserve these memories so have a camera or smartphone to capture them.

Endeavor to keep your phones or cameras charged so that you don’t miss out on capturing exciting attractions because of low batteries. Also, carry a backup power supply like a power bank.

Trash Bag or Bin

Littering in Rwanda is prohibited and punishable so pack a trash bag to keep food remains, snack packaging, and so on in order to maintain a clean environment.

Snacks and Drinks

Perhaps the most important road trip essential of all is the snacks! Keep hunger and thirst at bay by stocking up on all your favourite snacks and drinks for the journey. Stick to non-perishable items like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits for a healthier option or if you find roadside vendors, you can buy some fresh fruits or Roasted meat.

Do not forget to pack enough water and other drinks to stay hydrated.

Entertainment

Getting bored on your road trip will ruin the whole experience.  That’s why most rental cars are equipped with a sound system. Organize a playlist of your favourite music, download podcasts or movies on your phone/tablet to keep boredom at bay.

You can also tune in to local radio stations and get updates about events in Rwanda. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with confidence and peace of mind by having these comprehensive essentials when renting a car in Rwanda.

Renting a car with an authentic Car Rental Company in Rwanda, especially for a first-timer is usually a hassle given the fact there are so many car rentals to choose from and it is also possible to wind up with scammers who can cost you a great deal.

Finding an authentic car rental company requires intensive research, due diligence, and vigilance. Here are some tips to help you find an authentic car rental company on your visit to Rwanda.

Reputation

If you’re looking for an authentic car rental company in Rwanda, reputation is key. Be sure to read reviews and ask around to make sure the one you choose has a solid background with quality customer service.

Check out online forums or review sites like TripAdvisor to get an honest assessment of their services from other customers. It’s also a good idea to see what kind of rating the company has from the Rwanda Development Board and any relevant industry associations.

This will help you determine if they offer reliable and dependable vehicles that meet all safety standards, as well as whether they have competitive rates and helpful customer service staff who go above and beyond when it comes to meeting your needs.

Bear in mind that authentic car rentals have a consistent online presence and positive reviews from their past customers.

Compare Prices

The prices and services of each company. Make sure to compare apples-to-apples when considering different companies – some might offer a lower price but are not all-inclusive.  Some that offer extremely low prices than the market price are usually scammers which should be avoided. It’s important to keep that in mind when making your decision so you can be sure to get the most value out of your car rental. Additionally, consider any extra costs such as taxes and fees that may not be included in the base rate.

Consider Referrals

When it comes to finding a reliable car rental company, word-of-mouth recommendations are your best bet. Ask friends and family who have recently rented a car in Rwanda whether they had good experiences with their rental company.

If you know someone who works for an airline or travel agency, ask them for recommendations too. It’s also worth checking online forums and customer reviews from past customers to make sure the rental companies you’re looking into are reputable and trustworthy. Knowing what others think of their services can give you peace of mind when making a decision.

Read and Understand the Car Rental Agreement

No matter how good a deal seems, take the time to read through the rental agreement carefully. Don’t just skim over it; make sure you understand all of the details and conditions of your rental. Be aware of any restrictions or extra fees that may apply based on your usage such as late return charges return charges.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with all the terms before signing so there are no surprises at drop-off. This can help ensure that you get the best possible car rental experience for the most reasonable price.

Physical Locations

It is a common practice of many travellers to make payments on their car rentals online and most people have fallen victim to scammers. In fact, most reservations are made online but make sure that the rental company you choose has a physical address.

If possible, request to visit their offices/ premises and personally check the cars and if the company is legitimate,  they’ll not hesitate.  Look out for agents that insist on delivering the car to you .

Proper Licenses and Certifications

When renting a car in Rwanda, it is important to find out if the rental company is licensed to operate at registered by the Rwanda Development Board. Ask for licenses because some agencies operate even when they’re not registered.  This could be an issue if you encounter any problems along the way.

Finding an authentic Car Rental Company in Rwanda can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. With the right research and comparison shopping, you can find an excellent deal and have peace of mind that your rental experience will be smooth sailing.

Be sure to keep your budget in mind, check out reviews online and ask friends for referrals, compare prices and services, and read the fine print in rental agreements to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Rwanda the land of a Thousand Hills is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places you will visit in Africa.  It is gifted with unique flora and fauna and some of the places to visit on yourself drive trip include the Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, and Lake Kivu among others.

There are a couple of Rwanda Car rental companies that allow you to self drive upon request though some can provide you with a chauffeur/driver. You need to be keen when choosing a car hire company because they are very many and because of this, scammers have taken advantage to con people.

In order to get a reputable company for your Self Drive in Rwanda, research online for customer reviews and consider recommendations/ referrals. Self-drive is the best option because you get to plan your trip according to your own terms, it is flexible and provides a high level of privacy. Some of the important things you need to bear in mind when renting a car for self drive in Rwanda include but not limited to the following.

Minimum Age

You need to be above 18 years of age to be able to drive in Rwanda. As much as one can drive a car as early as 15 years old in the USA, It is not allowed in Rwanda. You may have a driver’s license at 16 from USA but this license is rendered invalid in Rwanda and you can not hire a car for self drive.

Also adults above 70 years may not be allowed to self drive because of impaired vision and other old age health issues like back pains. Avoid providing counterfeit permits because you’ll be charged with fraud and also make sure that your permit is not expired.

GPS Navigation

For self drive in Rwanda,  you need a GPS navigator especially if it is your first time there. Having a GPS system for saves you a lot of trouble getting lost here and there. It also saves time because you don’t have to stop multiple times asking locals for directions.

All you have to do is type in your destination and the GPS will direct you all the way to the place you’re going to while it draws you a line to follow. You may also add in some places of interest that you want to stop at and all the information will be given.

Ask your car rental operator for a car with a  GPS  system though this comes at an extra cost. Another way to easily navigate is by using Google Maps but this may not be effective in remote areas where there is bad Internet connection.

Choose the right car

In order to enjoy your self drive trip in Rwanda, you have to choose the right Car for your trip. Car rental Rwanda has a large fleet of vehicles to choose from depending on your needs. Are you driving to a safari destination? You need a 4×4 vehicle that is able to withstand rough roads in those areas but you may not need it if you’re driving around Kigali and it will just cost you extra for nothing.

Also, consider the number of people you’re travelling with as this will help you get a car with the right sitting capacity.

Traffic Rules

The speed limit is Rwanda is 40kmph in the cities and 80kmph in the provinces or upcountry. There are speed cameras on certain points of the roads and  E-tickets are issued so endeavour to drive within the given limits.

Inquire from your car rental provider about other local traffic laws to avoid getting penalties.

Night Driving

Driving at night in Rwanda is discouraged for first-timers because they are not familiar with the roads. Rwanda has a hilly terrain and the roads have sharp corners which are hard to navigate.

Also, fog is common, especially in the provinces and this can obstruct your vision. You may also not be able to see obstacles on the roads like rocks and fallen tree logs, especially on rainy nights.

Do not forget that driving in Rwanda is on the right hand of the road and while on your self-drive trip, avoid littering and engage with locals by supporting their businesses and participating in various community activities. You can also make a friend or two to keep your memory of Rwanda embedded in your mind.

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and most definitely the first city you’ll see as soon as you land in Rwanda. Kigali City is well known for its cleanliness and is ranked as the cleanest city in Africa. This has been made possible by joint efforts of the communities with support from the government. Kigali has many beautiful places that will leave you mesmerized and in this article, we’ll take you through the Top 5 Self Drive Destinations in Kigali on your self-drive trip in Rwanda.

You’ll be shocked to learn that in Rwanda, there’s a tradition called Umuganda which happens every last Saturday of the month. On this day, all businesses and offices are closed for a public general cleaning which is compulsory for every Rwandan citizen.

Littering is prohibited and punishable by law therefore it is not surprising that Kigali has maintained its cleanest city status for years.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is located in the Gisozi neighbourhood and includes a museum, mass graves, and a research center. This is the final resting place for more than 235,000 people who were killed in the 1994 Genocide. These memorial grounds are among the most popular Self Drive Destinations in Kigali.

It’s an emotional visit and impossible to not shed a tear when you enter the children’s room dedicated to the young victims of the genocide. In this room, you can read very personal details like what these children wanted to become when they grow up, favourite books, and things to do.

It is hard to imagine that this tragedy happened less than 3  decades ago given the peace and unity that reigns among Rwandans

The Kimironko Market

This is the busiest market in Kigali and just like many African Markets, the number of vendors and the variety of products can somehow be overwhelming. There are all kinds of fruits and vegetables for example bananas, pineapples, mangoes, and potatoes.

You’ll also find other items that you’re probably not familiar with especially clothes, shoes and hats. There are also various arts and crafts for sale that are a perfect souvenir. Drive to Kimironko Market and enjoy a thrilling shopping experience.

Nyamirambo

Nyamirambo is commonly referred to as the “coolest neighbourhood” and it is a place that never sleeps. It is a place that never sleeps. The bars, clubs, boutiques, supermarkets and shops do not close. Partying goes on day and night! If you are planning to go out with friends for a fun night, Nyamirambo is definitely the place to visit.

The Inema Art Centre

It was founded in 2012 by two brothers who had a passion for supporting and showcasing emerging Rwandan artists. It is now one of  Kigali’s best contemporary art galleries. Workshops and trainings for the next generation of artists are held here and also includes weekly lessons for orphans with artistic aptitude.

You can view the beautiful artwork in the gallery or visit the gift store to buy jewellery, linen, and leatherwork made by the gallery’s students. There is also live music and dancing performances on a regular. This is a perfect destination for art lovers.

The Nyamirambo Women’s Centre

Drive to Kigali’s cosmopolitan district of Nyamirambo and visit the women’s centre which is a non profit organisation dedicated to providing Rwanda Women with the education and skills they need to find work.

The women here manufacture high-quality clothes, accessories, and home décor items made from the traditional Kitenge fabric. You can also join their renowned community walks and enjoy lunch at one of the ladies’ homes.

Self-drive Rwanda gives you a chance to explore the stunning Kigali City. While on your drive, make some stops and participate in community activities like Umuganda, visit local restaurants try the local cuisine, and don’t forget to support local businesses.

Rwanda, according to the Travel Show on BBC has one of the fastest growing tourism economies in the world and its major attraction is wildlife. Rwanda is naturally gifted with beautiful sceneries that make it one of the top safari destinations in Africa. In a press release by the World Bank on February 19^th, 2023, it is stated that nature-based tourism accounts for over 80% of Leisure and business visitors in Rwanda. Let us take you through the top 5 Self Drive Destinations in Rwanda.

Travelers on various online platforms like TripAdvisor,  Booking.com, and social media emphasize that you have not visited Africa if you haven’t been to Rwanda. The best way to discover Rwanda is by renting a car for self-drive since it is convenient, flexible, and cheaper than hiring a car with a chauffeur.

The Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is home to the famous mountain gorillas and is the most visited destination in Rwanda. It is located in the north-western part of Rwanda and is a 3 hours drive from Kigali City. The most popular activity at the Volcanoes is gorilla trekking.

It is home to over  a third of the world’s population of critically endangered mountain gorillas and is listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tracking gorillas usually takes between 4-6 hours and you get to spend an hour with each habituated family. You can give back to the community by hiring a porter to help you carry your bag or steady you during the hike.

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is located just 2.5 – 3 hours from Kigali in the eastern part of Rwanda and is known for its savannah plains, wetlands, and lakes boasting diverse wildlife. It’s one of Central Africa’s largest protected wetlands and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda. Akageras is one of the most popular Self Drive Destinations in Rwanda.

Popular activities here include self drive or guided game drives where you get to see the Big Five. If you are planning to do a self-drive in Akagera, consider hiring a guide at the visitor centre to increase your chances of finding certain animals.

You can also book a guided night game drive to spot nocturnal animals. You can also take part in birdwatching, sport fishing at Lake Shakani boat cruises at Lake Ihema.

Lake Kivu

Located on the Boarder of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo(DRC), Lake Kivu is the largest lake in Rwanda and one of Africa’s great lakes. The distance of Lake Kivu from Kigali is(please insert accurate)and is a (also insert accurate)hours drive. Visitors can go on boat trips to the many islands, go fishing or hike one of the trails around the lake to enjoy its emerald-green beauty.

You can even join water sports activities such as stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) or kayaking with local fishermen entertaining you along the way. Also, visit one of the nearby fishing villages on the shores of the lake and enjoy the famous fried whole tilapia

Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the south eastern part of Lake Kivu in the Albertine Rift and is also a UNESCO biosphere reserve. It is famous for chimpanzee trekking and you get an opportunity to see the rare Golden monkey.

It is one of the biggest montane forests remaining in Eastern Africa and you can take part in guided treks, canopy walks, and bird-watching tours. If you are adventurous, opt for a canopy walk of 160 meter including a 90-meter-long suspension bridge with fantastic views over the rainforest on a height of 70 meters.

You can even join water sports activities such as stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) or kayaking with local fishermen entertaining you along the way and visiting one of the nearby fishing villages on the shores of Lake Kivu.

The King’s Palace Museum

This is located in Nyanza District In the southern province and is approximately 88km from Kigali City. The King’s Palace Museum is one of Rwanda’s six national museums and tells the history of the monarchy and the traditional culture of Rwanda.

One of the main attractions within the museum is a beehive-shaped replica of the King’s Palace in the 15^th century. Another cultural attraction are the sacred long-horned cows, known as Inyambo cattle. The cattle keepers sing to the Inyambo by belting poems – a unique ritual in Rwanda

As you venture on your self drive trip, remember to try out local cuisine and support community-based initiatives to have a memorable experience.