9 Essential Tips Rwanda Airports For New Arrivals

Rwanda boasts 7 airports for civilian flights, but only Kigali International and Kamembe International offer regular commercial services. Kigali International, also known as Rwanda's primary gateway, welcomes travelers from around the globe.

To make your arrival smooth and stress-free, here's your essential guide to Rwanda's airports, providing all the info you need for a seamless journey.

List of Rwanda's Airports

Rwanda, affectionately known as a jewel of East Africa, attracts visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and thriving business opportunities. The country's airports play a pivotal role in connecting Rwanda to the world, offering seamless access for travelers eager to explore its natural wonders and bustling cities. This guide delves into Rwanda's key airports, highlighting their features, services, and valuable travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Kigali International Airport, the country's primary aviation hub, hosts 15 airlines that operate flights connecting 16 destinations worldwide. Rwanda’s flagship carrier, RwandAir, stands as the nation’s sole airline, offering routes to 29 destinations across the globe.

CITY SERVED	PROVINCE	AIRPORT NAME
Nyamata	Eastern Province	Bugesera International Airport
Butare	Southern Province	Butare Airport
Cyangugu	Western Province	Kamembe International Airport
Gisenyi	Western Province	Gisenyi Airport
Kigali	Kigali Province	Kigali International Airport
Nemba	Eastern Province	Nemba Airport
Ruhengeri	Northern Province	Ruhengeri Airport

Kigali International Airport

• Location: Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.
• Overview: Kigali International Airport is the primary gateway for international travelers entering Rwanda. Located approximately 10 kilometers east of Kigali's city center, the airport is the largest and busiest in the country.

• Facilities:

  Information desk

  ATMs

  Airport lounges

  Internet

  Shops, duty free

  Post office

  Police & security

  Luggage wrapping

  Call center

  Luggage scales

  Cabin baggage

  Last minute tickets

  Health

  Baggage disputes

  Bar & restaurants

• Airlines Operating: RwandAir, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, etc.

Kigali International Airport

Kigali International Airport is located on the eastern edge of the capital of Rwanda, Kigali, and is approximately 7 miles from the city center. Travel time between the two typically takes around half an hour by rental car or airport taxi. 

Overall, Kigali International Airport provides a smooth, hassle-free flying experience that ranks among the best in Africa.Kigali International Airport is the main point of entry for international travelers and is the only airport in Rwanda offering scheduled international flights. The airport has three terminals and three runways, facilitating direct flights to 31 destinations across 21 countries. Many of these routes are served by Rwanda's national airline, RwandAir, which also operates scheduled flights to Kamembe, the country's only domestic airport. 

Other major airlines operating from Kigali include Ethiopian Airlines, Egyptair, Turkish Airlines and KLM, with KLM offering the longest flight from Kigali, an 8-hour 15-minute journey to Amsterdam. Currently, there are no direct flights between Kigali and the United States.

Although Kigali International Airport is modest in size by global standards, it offers the most amenities a traveler might need. These include ATMs, currency exchange offices, free Wi-Fi, duty-free shops, souvenir and electronics shops (including Rwanda SIM cards), a post office, and two Bourbon coffee shops. Additionally, travelers can wrap their luggage in plastic for added security. Kigali Airport has three separate lounges—two departures and one arrival—with access typically reserved for business and first-class passengers on specific airlines or VIP cardholders.

Kigali International Airport is the primary gateway for international travelers entering Rwanda 

Kamembe International Airport

• Location: Cyangugu, near Lake Kivu in southwestern Rwanda.
• Overview: Kamembe International Airport is the second major airport in Rwanda, mainly serving the western region of the country and providing a vital link to the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Facilities:

  Small terminal with basic amenities.

  Rental car services are available.

• Distance to Volcanoes National Park: 161 miles, or just under six hours by car. Again, public transport is not recommended, and the best way to get there is via private transfer or rental car. 

Kamembe International Airport

Kamembe International Airport is located approximately 3 miles north of Cyangugu, the capital of Rusizi District in Rwanda's Western Province. As the country's only domestic airport, it serves as a convenient gateway to Western tourist attractions such as Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest National Park, famous for chimpanzee trekking. Flying into Kamembe significantly reduces travel time to Nyungwe from almost five hours (from Kigali and Rwanda International Airport) to under 1.5 hours.

The airports in Rwanda have a single terminal and runway and were renovated in 2014 to ensure they remain well-maintained. RwandAir is the only airline offering scheduled flights to and from Kamembe, with seven weekly arrivals from Kigali. The airport also serves charter flights from neighboring countries, including Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, attracting wealthy tourists and business travelers.

Bugesera International Airport (Under Construction)

Location: Bugesera District, approximately 40 km southeast of Kigali.

Significance:

• Expected to be the largest and most modern airport in Rwanda.
• Will handle the increasing passenger and cargo traffic.

Features:

• Advanced facilities, including a large runway for long-haul flights.
• Designed to become a regional aviation hub for East Africa.

Kamembe International Airport is the second major airport in Rwanda 

9 Essential Travel Tips to Rwanda's Airports

1. Arrive Early for International Flights

Kigali International Airport is known for its efficient operations, but during peak travel seasons or busy hours, the check-in and security processes can take longer. To avoid last-minute stress, it’s recommended to arrive at least three hours before your international flight and two hours before domestic flights. This allows ample time for baggage check, immigration, and security screenings.

2. Visa Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Rwanda. You can check Rwanda visa requirements for your country on the Rwanda Immigration Services website. If you do require a visa, you can apply online in advance or obtain one upon arrival at Kigali International Airport. It’s important to have all necessary documentation and fees ready when applying for a visa. 

All travelers entering the country must have a valid passport for at least 6 months from the issued date. Be sure to check your passport's expiration date before traveling and renew it if needed.

Visitors should check visa requirements on the Rwanda Immigration Services website 

3. Consider Chartered Flights for Remote Destinations

If your itinerary includes visits to remote areas like Akagera National Park or Volcanoes National Park, chartered flights can save you valuable time. While Rwanda’s road network is well-developed, some attractions may take hours to reach by car. Charter flights are a convenient option for travelers on tight schedules, offering quick and scenic access to these locations.

4. Take Advantage of Airport Services

Kigali International Airport offers a variety of services to enhance your travel experience. Consider using the VIP lounge for added comfort or exploring the duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs. Travelers with layovers can find amenities such as restaurants, cafes, and free Wi-Fi to stay connected.

5. Pack Light for Domestic Flights

Domestic flights in Rwanda often have strict baggage weight limits. Check with your airline ahead of time to ensure your luggage meets the requirements. If you're flying with a charter service, consider traveling light to avoid additional fees or complications.

6. Stay Updated on Flight Information

Regularly check your flight status before leaving for the airport. While Kigali International Airport is known for its punctuality, unexpected delays or changes can occur. Many airlines provide real-time updates via email, SMS, or their mobile apps.

7. Arrange Transportation in Advance

Upon arriving at your destination, having pre-arranged transportation can save time and reduce stress. Kigali International Airport offers several options, including taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals. For travelers heading to remote areas, coordinate with your hotel or tour operator for pick-up services.

8. Travel Insurance

Getting Rwanda travel insurance before your trip is strongly advised. This will cover any unforeseen medical costs or emergencies that may occur while you're traveling. 

It is advised that visitors visiting Rwanda receive specific vaccines, such as those for hepatitis A and B and yellow fever. It's crucial to speak with your doctor at least four weeks before your trip to make sure you have had all the recommended shots and prescriptions. 

9. Local Currency

The currency used locally is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Major airports have ATMs, but for smaller purchases, you should always have cash on hand.

The currency used locally is the Rwandan Franc 

Rwanda's airports Faqs

Is there a VIP lounge at Rwanda Airport?

Yes, Kigali International Airport in Rwanda offers several VIP lounges for travelers seeking comfort and amenities. These lounges cater to both departing and arriving passengers, providing services such as complimentary beverages, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.

Conclusion

Rwanda's airports, though varying in size and capacity, are pivotal in connecting the country to the rest of the world. Kigali International Airport stands out as the primary hub, with Kamembe and Gisenyi airports serving regional needs. The upcoming Bugesera International Airport promises to elevate Rwanda's aviation infrastructure further, enhancing travel and economic opportunities. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or transit, Rwanda's airports offer a welcoming and efficient entry point to this remarkable country.