Rwanda Trip Cost: Full Budget Breakdown for Travelers

Lately, Rwanda has drawn many people looking for a place to relax and explore. It is often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills" because of its many mountains that amaze visitors.  

Before you go, it’s key to figure out how much the trip might cost. This helps you plan well, save right, and enjoy your time there. Below is a simple guide on what you might spend for a trip to Rwanda, including flights, places to stay, travel, food, fun things to do, and more.

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 is not expensive for travelers to visit

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.

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.

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

FAQs About the Cost of a Trip to Rwanda

How much a tour to Rwanda will cost approximately?

Estimated Total Costs:

• Budget Traveler: For a 3-day trip, you might spend approximately $632 to $2,880, including flights, accommodation, meals, and activities.
• Mid-Range Traveler: A week-long trip, including gorilla trekking, can range from $2,500 to $5,000 per person.

Please note that these are approximate figures, and actual costs can vary based on personal preferences, seasonal pricing, and specific tour operators. It's advisable to contact tour providers directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.

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:

• Meals: ~$8.54 per day
• Local transportation: ~$3.82 per day
• Accommodation: ~$27 per day for budget hotels; mid-range options cost $50–$80, while luxury accommodations start at $150 per night.

Activities: Costs vary widely. For example:

• Gorilla trekking: $1,500 (permit)
• Other activities like canopy walks ($60) or chimp trekking ($90) add to daily costs.
• 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.

What is the best time to visit Rwanda for the best prices?

• Busy Time (June-September & December): Flight, hotel, and tour costs go up with more visitors, especially for seeing gorillas. But the weather is great for being outside.
• Quiet Time (March-May & October-November): Costs drop in the rainy months, so it’s cheaper. There are fewer people, though bad weather might stop some plans.

Do I need to get gorilla trekking permits early?

Yes, you should get them early. Permits are few and sell fast. It’s best to book 3-6 months ahead, more so in busy times. Each permit costs about $1,500 per person.

Are there other costs for gorilla trekking?

Yes, you may have extra costs like:

• Travel: You might need a driver, guide, or ride to the trek spot.
• Tips: It’s normal to tip guides and helpers, usually $10 to $20 each.
• Gear: Some rent items like sticks or raincoats, which cost more.

Is travel insurance needed for a trip to Rwanda?

You don’t need travel insurance to enter Rwanda, but it’s a good idea to have it. This is key for things like medical needs, trip changes, or lost bags. It helps keep your trip safe.

How much should I plan to spend on things to do in Rwanda besides gorilla trekking?

Here are other fun things you can do in Rwanda:  

• Safari at Akagera Park: Entry is about $50, and guided drives cost about $150 per car.
• Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe: A permit costs about $90. 
• Canopy Walk in Nyungwe: Costs around $60 for each person.
• Cultural Tours and History Sites: Tours cost from $20 to $50 for each person, based on the place and type of tour.

Can I use credit/debit cards in Rwanda?

Yes, big hotels, cafes, and shops in Kigali take cards like Visa or Mastercard. But small shops and places outside the city mostly want cash. Keep some Rwandan Francs with you for small things. ATMs are easy to find in big towns.

Are there hidden fees I should know?

Here are some costs you might face:

• Tourist Tax: Some places, like parks, may charge extra fees.  
• Tips: You don’t have to, but it’s nice to tip drivers, guides, or hotel staff.  
• Souvenirs: Local goods cost different amounts, from $1 for tiny items to $20 for baskets or art.

How much money should I save for gifts and shopping?

If you want to shop, setting aside $20 to $50 for gifts is fair. Handmade things like baskets, art, clothes, and beads can cost different amounts. Haggling is normal in shops, but be kind when asking for lower prices.

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.