Complete Rwanda Trip Cost Breakdown for Travelers

In recent days, Rwanda has been a popular destination among travelers to spend their vacation here. The "Land of a Thousand Hills" is a famous name for Rwanda because this country has many mountain landscapes that can surprise travelers.

But before you embark on this journey, it is really important to estimate the costs associated with a trip to Rwanda. From there, you can imagine and create a budget effectively and make the most of your experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of Rwanda trip costs you might expect when planning a trip to this country, covering flights, accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and more.

Is Rwanda Expensive to Visit?

Rwanda is a reasonably priced travel destination. In terms of affordability, it ranks among the top 10% of nations worldwide. Many low-budget tourists like to spend a lot of time thoroughly seeing this nation.

Your daily budget for your Rwandan holiday should be about $26 (RWF 34,770). Based on other guests' spending, this is the average daily cost.

On average, many visitors have spent one day:

• $8.54 for meals (RWF 11,567)
• $3.82 for local transit (RWF 5,177)
• Hotels cost $27 (RWF 36,750).

The average Rwanda trip cost of a two-person trip to Rwanda is $359 (RWF 486,780) for one week. This covers lodging, meals, local transit, and sightseeing.

To assist you in creating your personal travel budget, these average Rwanda travel costs have all been compiled from other tourists.

Rwanda is not expensive for travelers to visit

Detail Rwanda Trip Cost

It’s key to have clear thoughts about your trip money. While it's easy to think you’re a "cheap" traveler who can see the world with little cash, most find this way too hard. Think about where you’ve gone before and what grabs your interest. Now let’s look at the costs for a trip to Rwanda that you’ll face while planning.

Visa costs

Most travelers will need a visa to enter Rwanda, though requirements and fees vary by nationality.

• Single Entry Visa: This type of visa allows travelers to enter Rwanda one time only for tourism, conference, and transit purposes.
• East Africa Tourist Visa: Consider applying for this type of visa because you will have the chance to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda multiple times during the 90-day validity.

Rwanda Immigration Services is willing to help you get a Rwanda e-visa within a few days. In order to get your travel document, please check visa requirements and prepare enough documents to qualify for an e-visa. The application just takes a few minutes, and we will take care of the rest of the process for you.

Rwanda flight cost

Flights to Rwanda vary by where you live, when you buy, and the time of year. Kigali Airport, in the capital city, is where most people arrive. Here’s what to expect.:

• Cost of Flights: From North America, flights often cost $800 to $1,500. Those from Europe may pay $600 to $1,200. Flights from nearby African nations are cheaper, about $300 to $600 (as of 2024).
• When to Book: To get good prices, book two to three months early. Prices rise during busy times like June to September and December, so plan ahead to save money.

Read Further: Essential Guide to Rwanda's Airports For New Arrivals

There are many range of flights available to choose from

The cost of transportation in Rwanda

In terms of modes of transportation, travelers mostly took moto taxis, particularly in urban areas. Due to Rwanda's tiny size, there aren't many domestic flights available. To move from one place to another, it's better to use a bus, which is also rather quick, inexpensive, and easy.

The average cost of local transportation in Rwanda has been $3.82 (RWF5,177) per person per day for previous visitors. In Rwanda, using a cab or a ridesharing service (like Uber or Lyft) is far more expensive than using the bus.

• Taxis: Although they are not the most economical, taxis are a simple and secure way to travel across Rwanda. The Rwanda trip cost around the city using a taxi is about $15.25.
• Bus: Since every major city or town has a central bus station, using the bus is the best option once you leave Kigali. Whenever you need it, purchase your tickets at the bus company ticket offices located throughout the parking lot. All of the bus companies are generally trustworthy, but two of the best are Volcano Express and Virunga Express. The cost for 3 hours to drive around the city is about $2.54.

There are just a few options for public transportation in Rwanda. Renting a car or scheduling a mode of transportation, such as a guided tour, in advance is advised. But bear in mind that this may have an impact on your vacation budget as a whole.

Discover More: Weather and Climate in Rwanda for Your Upcoming Trip

Accommodation costs

There are many lodging alternatives in Rwanda to suit every budget, whether you're traveling the country on a backpacker's budget or looking for some incredibly upscale resorts. Rwanda offers some excellent discount lodging options.

From quaint B&Bs to lakeside paradise resorts, Rwanda offers amazing hospitality and service, so you won't ever feel like you're overpaying for the experience. More luxurious lodgings can start at $150 per night, while the majority of mid-range stays cost between $50 and $80. On a tight budget? There are hostels in Rwanda; in Kigali, a dorm room costs $9 per night, while inexpensive hotels typically cost about $30 per night.

For example:

• Umusambi B&B in Kigali costs $60 a night.
• Spa Shallum in Kibuye costs $35 a night.
• Kivu Paradis Resort in Gisenyi costs $98 a night.

Travelers can stay in hotels or resorts in Rwanda

Food budget in Rwanda

Rwanda's food is tasty and cheap, with something for every wallet. You can eat at small spots or food stands for less, while fancy meals in Kigali cost more.

• Street Food and Local Spots: Try Rwanda's dishes like maize porridge, pumpkin stew, or meat on sticks for just $1 to $3 each meal.
• Mid-Level Places: Eating out at middle-range spots in Kigali costs $5 to $15 per person.
• Fine Dining: Fancy places with global dishes cost around $20 to $50 for each person.

If you cook for yourself, stores in Kigali have what you need. Shopping for food this way may cost $10 to $20 a day.

Activities and sightseeing in Rwanda trip costs

Rwanda draws people with its wild animals and pretty land. Things like gorilla treks and park trips can cost a lot, so think about your budget.  

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Trek Price: A gorilla trek permit costs $1,500 each. It may sound high, but this money helps protect the animals and keeps them safe for years to come.  

Other National Parks and Wildlife Tours

• Nyungwe Forest Park: This park has chimps and many birds. To trek with chimps, you’ll need a permit that costs about $90.
• Akagera Park: This park has open grasslands and safaris where you can spot the Big Five. It costs $50 to enter, and a full-day safari is $150 per car.
• Canopy Walk: You can walk high in the trees at Nyungwe for $60. It’s a fun and exciting way to see great views.

Travelers should remember to create a budget for each activity

Conclusion

A trip to Rwanda gives rare times with nature, rich culture, and stunning views. Costs may differ, like for seeing gorillas, but planning ahead helps you pick a trip that suits your needs and budget. By learning about the Rwanda costs, you can get ready to enjoy Rwanda fully.