Travel to Rwanda from UK: A Complete Guide

Planning a travel to Rwanda from UK means that you are in for an adventure. The "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda, offers spectacular scenery, flourishing wildlife, and a background rich in culture. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and engaging with the vibrant culture of Kigali are highlights there for any type of traveler.

This guide will cover how to travel from the UK to Rwanda, including flights, visa requirements, health and safety matters, and travel tips—everything you need for a successful journey.

Local dance and music bands welcome visitors to Rwanda

Why Travel to Rwanda from UK?

Rwanda is one of those popular tourist destinations in East Africa, welcoming tourists from all corners of the world. The country offers an impressive array of experiences, from wildlife safaris to exploring cultural sites and national parks.

Travel to Rwanda from UK offers a chance to experience one of the most eco-friendly destinations in Africa. Well known for conserving endangered mountain gorillas, Rwanda has earned its place as clean, safe, politically stable, and one of the most conducive countries for visiting.

From visiting the country's famous gorilla trekking sites to understanding the rich history through cultural and historical sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Rwanda is a destination worth exploring.

How to Get to Rwanda from the UK: Flight Options

One of the most asked questions by travelers who would love to go to Rwanda from the UK is: What are the best flight options? However, getting to Rwanda from the UK is very easy; there are many flights from the major UK airports such as London Heathrow and London Gatwick.

UK to Rwanda Flight: Airlines and Duration

Flying from London to Kigali is the most direct route to Rwanda. The country's airline, RwandAir offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Kigali International Airport. The direct flights usually take about 8 to 10 hours, thus being one of the quickest ways to reach Rwanda.

Other important airlines with connecting flights to Rwanda include Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Qatar Airways. The airlines may have an airport stopover at Addis Ababa, Nairobi, or Doha before arriving at Kigali. The total flight time can vary anywhere between 12 to 15 hours.

Flight to Rwanda from London:

Flights from London to Kigali are available throughout the year; however, prices tend to vary with the seasons and distance from the date of flight. Booking months before traveling tends to give more preference to saving costs when flying from the UK to Rwanda, especially within the travel peak season (June to September).

Rwanda Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

Before taking your flight out to Rwanda, it is important to know that a visa for Rwanda is required for UK citizens. The good news is that the visa application process is fairly simple and can be done online or on arrival.
Rwanda Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
UK nationals traveling to Rwanda can apply for the eVisa or obtain a visa on arrival at the Kigali International Airport.

1. eVisa: Most tourists will find the easiest means of obtaining an eVisa. All very straightforward considering once approved, the visa will be directly available digitally, thus saving time when awaiting approval at airport checks.

eVisa requirements include: 

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• A completed online application form.
• Payment of the visa fee (typically around 50 USD).

Applying for the Rwanda eVisa in advance is the best option to minimize delays and enhance entry confidence.

2. Visa on Arrival: UK nationals may also apply for a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport. This visa allows for a stay of up to 30 days; however, it may require waiting at immigration and may not be as convenient as getting an eVisa.
If unsure about the steps to apply for a visa, Rwanda Immigration Services has a comprehensive and simple means to obtain the eVisa, along with details on the documents needed for entry.

Applying for Rwanda evisa is easy and smooth

Health and Safety Considerations for UK Travelers

When travelling to Rwanda from the UK, there are several health and safety considerations to keep in mind.
Vaccinations:

• Yellow Fever Vaccination: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from or transiting through countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Upon arrival in Rwanda, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is only required if you are arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever-endemic country.
• Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid. Malaria prevention is also advised for travel to certain regions of Rwanda, particularly in rural areas.

Health Insurance:
It is important to secure travel health insurance that includes coverage for unforeseen health scenarios, such as medical emergencies and evacuation. Whereas Rwanda boasts decent health facilities in most cities, such as Kigali, it is better to be safe.
Safety:
Rwanda is among the safest countries in Africa, with low crime rates and great infrastructure. However, your awareness of the surroundings and following local guidelines will add to your safety while visiting.

Currency and Money Matters in Rwanda

• Currency: The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the local currency in Rwanda. UK travelers can exchange British Pounds (GBP) at local banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs once they arrive in Kigali.
• Payment Methods: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions in Kigali, it’s advisable to carry some local currency for smaller transactions.
• ATMs: ATMs are available throughout Kigali, and they accept international cards. Ensure that your bank cards have international access to avoid inconvenience.

Panoramic view of Kigali Rwanda. Kigali capital of Rwanda 

Transportation Within Rwanda

After arriving in Rwanda, getting around is easy with a variety of transportation options:

• Public Transportation: In Rwanda, there are good public means of transport, which include taxis and minibus. However, many visitors prefer to hire private taxis or car services for more comfort.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car will give you a fantastic opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Rwanda. Most international car rental companies, notably Avis and Europcar, operate in Kigali.
• Domestic Flights: While RwandAir operates some domestic routes, most national parks like Volcanoes or Akagera are best accessed by road from Kigali.

Things to Do in Rwanda

The land of a thousand Hills, Rwanda, is full of wonderful experiences that travelers come running to see from around the world. Some of the best options are:

• Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda is famous for its gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Wildlife Safari: Explore the Akagera National Park for safari experiences to see the Big Five and other wildlife.
• Cultural Tours: Learn about Rwanda’s history and culture at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
• Lake Kivu: Relax by the serene waters of Lake Kivu or take part in water-based activities like kayaking and boat tours.

View of Gisenyi town at Lake Kivu in Rwanda

Final Travel Tips for UK Tourists Visiting Rwanda

• Cultural Etiquette: Understanding Rwandan customs is important. It’s polite to greet people with a handshake and to be respectful of local traditions.
• Best Time to Visit: The best period for making it to Rwanda is during the dry season, from June to September and from December to February. This is incredible for indoor activities available, such as gorilla trekking.
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory in most restaurants. A usual tip in a restaurant maybe 10% of the final cost, while tips for guides and drivers are usually small.

Conclusion

The journey from the UK to Rwanda is, therefore, an interesting experience that is easy to organize with a little preparation. This guide has provided you with all the key information, from booking your UK-Rwanda flight to applying for Rwanda visas for UK citizens to having a smooth and enjoyable trip. Whether you enjoy going around the natural charms of the country or learning about its fascinating culture, Rwanda promises a truly different and unforgettable travel experience.

For a seamless travel experience, consider applying for your eVisa through Rwanda Immigration Services to skip the hassle at the airport and get your trip off to the right start!