Everything you need
before you land

Most travellers can get a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport or apply online in advance through Irembo, the official government portal. Rules differ by passport, so check the current requirements for your nationality before you fly. I am happy to help you check.

Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa, including for solo travellers and women. Kigali is clean, orderly and easy to walk around. I grew up here and I would bring my own family anywhere on our itineraries.

You can visit all year. The long dry season from June to September and the short dry season from December to February are easiest for trekking. The rainy months are greener, quieter and often better value.

A normal level of fitness is enough. Treks last between two and six hours on steep, sometimes muddy ground. The park matches groups to gorilla families based on fitness, and porters can carry your bag and give you a hand.

For gorilla trekking, three to six months ahead, and earlier for June to September. Only 96 permits are issued each day. For the rest of the trip, the earlier you tell me your dates, the more lodge choice you have.

The Rwandan franc. Cards work in most hotels and restaurants in Kigali, and US dollars are widely accepted for permits and lodges. I will tell you exactly how much cash to bring for tips and markets.

A yellow fever certificate may be required depending on where you are travelling from. Speak to a travel clinic about routine vaccinations and malaria advice a few weeks before your trip.

Kinyarwanda, English, French and Swahili. English is spoken everywhere you will be. I speak Kinyarwanda, so you will never miss what is being said in a village or a market.