How to Safely Drive on Rwanda’s Mountain Roads
Driving on mountain roads in Rwanda requires careful preparation and an understanding of the challenges you may face along the way. These roads, which wind through the country’s lush hills and valleys, often come with steep inclines, sharp turns, and unpredictable weather conditions. Whether you’re road tripping Rwanda or just self driving as part of a longer journey, here are some important tips on how to prepare for mountain driving, explained in simple terms.
- Know Your Vehicle
Before you start driving on the mountain roads, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is up to the task. Mountain driving can be tough on your car, so here are a few things to check:
- Brakes: Check that your brakes are in good working order. Mountain roads often require sudden stops or control on steep slopes, so reliable brakes are crucial.
- Tires: Ensure your tires are in good condition, with enough tread for traction. The roads can be slippery, especially in wet weather.
- Engine and Transmission: Make sure the engine and transmission are working smoothly. A vehicle that struggles to climb steep slopes can cause safety issues.
- Coolant and Fluids: The engine might get hotter when driving up steep inclines. Check that your coolant level is adequate and that other fluids like oil and brake fluid are topped up.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Route
Before heading into the mountains, take time to learn about your route. Some mountain roads in Rwanda can be narrow and winding, with poor visibility in some areas. Consider these steps:
- Maps or GPS: Have a map or GPS system that is up-to-date. Be aware that some mountain roads may not be clearly marked, so it’s good to have an offline map or a reliable GPS app that can guide you.
- Local Advice: If possible, ask locals or your tour guide about the condition of the roads and any areas that are difficult to navigate. Local knowledge can help you avoid potential hazards.
- Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before heading into the mountains. Rain, fog, or mist can reduce visibility and make the roads slippery.
- Driving Techniques for Mountain Roads
Mountain driving in Rwanda can be challenging, and it’s important to adjust your driving techniques accordingly. Here are some key tips:
- Driving Uphill
- Use Lower Gears: When driving up a steep incline, shift to a lower gear to maintain power and avoid overworking the engine. Using a lower gear will help the car maintain a steady speed without straining the engine.
- Accelerate Slowly: Don’t rush when climbing uphill. Accelerate gently to give the engine time to adjust and avoid stalling.
- Stay in Your Lane: On narrow mountain roads, be sure to stay in your lane, as there may be limited space for passing, especially on corners.
- Driving Downhill
- Use Engine Braking: When going downhill, use engine braking by shifting to a lower gear. This helps to slow the vehicle without overusing the brakes, which can overheat and become less effective.
- Don’t Ride the Brakes: Constantly applying the brakes when driving downhill can cause them to heat up and lose effectiveness. Instead, apply the brakes intermittently and use engine braking to control your speed.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Going downhill can make it harder to stop quickly, so you need plenty of space to react if something unexpected happens.
- Navigating Curves and Sharp Turns
- Slow Down for Corners: Mountain roads often have sharp turns that require slowing down. Be prepared to reduce your speed when approaching a bend, as you may not always have a clear view of oncoming traffic.
- Use the Right Lane: In Rwanda, cars typically drive on the right side of the road. Ensure you stay in the right lane, especially when navigating curves, to avoid drifting into the path of other vehicles.
- Honk When Necessary: On blind corners, it’s a good idea to lightly honk your horn to alert any oncoming drivers of your presence.
- Handling Weather Conditions
Weather in the mountains of Rwanda can change quickly, and it’s important to be prepared for different conditions:
- Rain and Mud: Rwanda has a tropical climate, and rain can make roads slippery. When it rains, especially in the mountain areas, roads can become muddy and slick. If you’re driving on unpaved or dirt roads, use extra caution, as your tires may lose traction.
- Fog and Low Visibility: The mountainous regions of Rwanda are often shrouded in fog, especially in the morning. If you’re driving in foggy conditions, turn on your headlights, reduce your speed, and increase the distance between you and other vehicles.
- Cool Weather: The altitude can make temperatures colder, particularly at higher elevations. Be sure to dress in layers and have a jacket or sweater with you, as mountain temperatures can be much cooler than in the lowlands.
- Road Hazards and Safety
Mountain roads in Rwanda may have various hazards, so it’s important to stay alert:
- Rockslides and Landslides: During the rainy season, rockslides and landslides can block roads or cause sudden obstacles. Drive cautiously, especially in areas where landslides are common.
- Animals on the Road: Livestock, such as cows, goats, and sheep, are often seen on the roads in rural areas. Be prepared to stop or slow down if you encounter animals crossing the road.
- Other Drivers: While most people in Rwanda drive responsibly, mountain roads may sometimes have vehicles traveling too fast or overtaking on narrow sections. Be mindful of other drivers and always stay within your lane.
- Vehicle Safety Kit
It’s wise to be prepared for emergencies when driving on mountain roads. Here’s a checklist of items to have in your vehicle:
- First Aid Kit: In case of minor injuries or emergencies.
- Tire Repair Kit: A spare tire, jack, and tools to fix flat tires.
- Flashlight: For visibility if you get stuck or need to change a tire at night.
- Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated, especially during long drives, and have some food for energy in case of delays.
- Warm Clothing: The temperature can drop, so have a jacket or blanket on hand.
- Basic Tool Kit: To handle minor car issues that may arise.
- Phone and Power Bank: Ensure your phone is charged, and carry a power bank in case you need to call for help or use GPS.
- Stay Calm and Patient
Driving in the mountains of Rwanda can sometimes be stressful due to the road conditions and the terrain. However, it’s important to stay calm and patient:
- Drive at Your Own Pace: Don’t feel pressured by other drivers. If you need to drive slowly because of the road conditions or weather, do so.
- Take Breaks: If you start feeling tired or stressed, take a break. Pull over to a safe area, rest, and recharge before continuing your journey.
- Keep Calm During Difficult Situations: If you’re facing a steep incline, a sharp curve, or an unexpected obstacle, stay calm, breathe, and focus on maintaining control of the vehicle.
Conclusion
Driving on mountain roads in Rwanda can be an unforgettable experience, offering beautiful views and a chance to explore the country’s natural beauty. However, it also comes with challenges that require careful preparation and attention to detail. By maintaining your vehicle, familiarizing yourself with the route, adjusting your driving techniques, and staying prepared for weather and road hazards, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey through Rwanda’s stunning mountains.
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10 Things to Do in Rwanda Besides Gorilla Trekking
Visit Rwanda’s famous primates in Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park including Golden Monkeys, Chimpanzees, Colobus Monkeys, and Baboons to name a few.
Go mountain climbing at Volcanoes National Park—don’t miss the 5th highest mountain in Africa—or mountain biking over Rwanda’s thousand hills.
Travel back in time at the King’s Place, Nyanza.
Enjoy a full traditional Rwandan experience including dancing, archery, traditional healers, food and a taste of Rwanda’s local brew at Iby’ Iwacu Cultural Village in Musanze in Rwanda’s Northern Province.
Visit Rwanda’s Genocide Memorial Sites:
Kigali Memorial Site; Murambi Memorial Site; Nyanza Kicukiro Memorial Site; and Ntarama Memorial Site
Visit Rwanda’s largest lake, Lake Kivu and its numerous islands and beach resort towns Rubavu and Karongi
Go canoeing, kayaking, and wind surfing on Lake Kivu at the edge of Rwanda’s Western Province
Enjoy fish dishes and a relaxing day at Lake Muhazi around 60km from Kigali
Tour Kigali on the Kigali City Tour Bus and learn all there is to know about Rwanda’s capital city
Explore Nyungwe National Park’s amazing waterfalls or orchids and butterflies
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Is It Safe to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?
Rwanda is one of the safest countries on the African continent and in the world, and this is because the government has made Security and safety a top priority after the Rwanda genocide of 1994. Rwanda has been safe for over 20 years now and, with the friendly people, has become a safe safari destination for gorilla trekking and other tourism experiences.
Besides the fact that the population of travelers opting for the Rwanda gorilla safaris has increased, there are still so many asking the same question about whether it is safe to trek gorillas in Rwanda, and the answer is yes. It is understandable when this question is asked because we all need our safety assured, especially if we are trekking through the jungle for the first time. Tourists need to be assured that gorilla trekking experience is safe because even though mountain gorillas are wild animals, they have been habituated to get used to human presence, and once the trekking rules and regulations have been followed, there will be no issue with the experience.
In Rwanda, gorilla trekking experience is done in Volcanoes national park and is one of the only four known destinations in the world that protect the mountain gorillas. Other destinations are; Virunga national park of Congo, and then Mgahinga and Bwindi National Park of Uganda. To ensure that gorilla trekking experience is safe in Rwanda, there are safety measures taken during the encounter and these have to be followed by each and every trekker. Below is the list of these measures;
Purchase of Gorilla trekking permits: Gorilla permits are legal documents printed by Rwanda Development Board and are the only way tourists get to trek the gorillas. These need to be booked in advance because of their high demand. Gorilla permits are part of the safety and security measures to protect the gorillas. A few permits are printed daily to reduce the number of people who trek the gorillas, and each goes for $1500. To know more about the cost of a gorilla permit and how to purchase one, check out our website on how to purchase gorilla permits.
The security checkpoints: After tourists get to Volcanoes National Park from Kigali, each person has to go through a security checkpoint to ensure that they are not a danger to the gorillas, themselves, and other tourists. After undergoing a security check for firearms, knives, and any other considered to be a threat, you will be allowed to enter the park and participate in the activity. Note that immediately after the security check, you must attend a briefing at the park headquarters.
Briefing: The briefing is minutes between experienced tour guides and trekkers. During the briefing, trek rules, and regulations are re-echoed so that tourists get to remember them (we are going to be looking at the trek rules and regulations later on), and it is also the time when groups of 8 are assigned the gorilla families that they are to trek. CCTV cameras: You will notice CCTV cameras in the different parts of the national park, as well as security personnel. Gorilla trekking is a top-earning activity for Rwanda in terms of revenue, and that is why Security is always on standby to help and protect the tourists.
Assignment of experienced guide: As you are heading for a gorilla trekking experience, a professional and knowledgeable tour guide is assigned to you during the briefing session, and he or she will take you through the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking and take you through the exercise. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the gorilla families and the best routes to use. To be safe, you need to follow all the guidelines and instructions given to you by the tour guides.
The age limit for tracking: The age limit for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is 15 years and above. This is the age limit for all tourists planning a gorilla safari in Rwanda. Age verification using your official identification documents like national IDs and passports will be done. The age limit was put at 15 because all those that are 15 and above can easily be controlled, unlike children below the age who are hard to control and might be forced to run in case a gorilla approaches them.
Provision of armed rangers: The park authorities provide one or two armed rangers to provide Security to all the trek groups within the Volcanoes National Park. The rangers are always in contact with each other, and only use routes they believe are safer. Volcanoes have other wildlife, so the job of the armed ranger is to keep you safe as you enjoy a memorable and safe gorilla safari in Rwanda.
Personal safety
Although safety measures have been put in place by the government of Rwanda, you also need to ensure that you take care of your personal security to contribute to safety during a gorilla trek safari. Below are some security measures you can take during and before the trek.
- Before booking your gorilla safari, make sure that you carefully research the tour company you are planning to use. Ensure that the company is registered; do not pay on personal bank accounts but ask for the company bank account and read reviews on TripAdvisor.
- Get proper clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and trousers, to protect your body from tree scratches, branches, and sharp plants. A walking stick will be available if you need it, as well as waterproof raincoat and warm clothes to keep you warm. Make sure you do not feel sick during the hike by packing right for the safari.
- If you are not used to hiking or physically capable, ask for an easier trek so that you can handle trekking a hard one. This can be done during the briefing, or you can ask your operator during the booking process.
- When feeling sick, avoid trekking, this is one of those rules that need to be followed to the dot. You risk infecting the gorillas if you have a contagious disease because mountain gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses/diseases. We advise that you wait until you are strong enough and well to enjoy the trekking business.
- Tracking commences from the park office, and each tracking group is allowed a maximum of eight visitors per day
- Treks are usually conducted with one park guide and armed escorts
- The guide liaises with about two to three trackers who have gone ahead to ascertain the location of the gorillas
- Once the gorillas have been located, guests will be allowed a maximum of one hour with the gorillas. This time limit is carefully observed to protect the gorillas from undue stress
- Only people over 15 years old may trek, to minimize the exposure of gorillas to childhood diseases
- Anyone suffering from a communicable disease, such as the flu or diarrhea, is not permitted to enter the park because of the risk of transmitting these conditions
- You should always stay together in a tight group while with the gorillas – do not surround them
- Avoid making loud noises, or making any sudden movements while trekking gorillas. Assume a crouch position while observing them
- It is not permitted to eat, drink or smoke when with the gorillas or within 200 m (656 ft) from them
- You should not get closer than 7 m (22 ft) of the gorilla
- Some parks require you to wear a mask to prevent any possible human contamination. These masks will be provided where stipulated
What to carry for a gorilla trek safari in Rwanda?
For a fun-filled gorilla safari, you will need to carry essential items which include trousers, long-sleeved shirts all in neutral colors, ankle-length hike boots, a warm sweater, waterproof rain jacket, sunscreen, a sunhat, warm clothing, insect repellent, a first aid kit, day backpack, camera and camera equipment, flashlight, binoculars, sandals, running shoes, wet wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, cash (preferably visit UGX and in smaller notes for easy tipping) snacks, refillable water bottle and personal toiletries among others.
Best time to visit Rwanda for a gorilla trekking safari
The best time to go for a gorilla trek in Rwanda is from June to September and December to February during the dry season. This is also the best time to go for other safaris within the country.
Overall, with these comprehensive safety measures and the dedication of Rwandan authorities to protect both visitors and gorillas, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a safe and well-organized activity. Also, there are several activities carried out in Volcanoes National Park besides gorilla trekking, and these include bird watching, golden monkey trekking, Mountain hiking on the Virunga mountains that are found within the national park, attending the Kwita Izina ceremony, cultural tour to the nearby villages and a guided walk to the Ruhondo and Burera Lakes.
How to Plan a Perfect Safari to Rwanda
Rwanda as an eminent destination in the East African region is not new in the ears of tourists. Rwanda is currently one of the top tourist destinations in the region. This country has built its reputation in the East African region since it put the genocide effects behind them and embarked on the restructuring process especially in the tourism industry. This country has developed a number of tourist attractions which keep on attracting a multitude of tourists. Such attractions include the following;
The Volcanoes National Park in the north-west of the country is the most famous of Rwanda’s three parks and is the place that most people come to on holiday because of its renowned residents, the mountain gorillas. Rwanda’s gorilla trekking is its biggest attraction. Less well-known holiday options are Akagera National Park on its eastern border and Nyungwe Forest National Park in the south.
Akagera is the only park for “traditional” safaris in Rwanda; it offers good wildlife opportunities, although not on the scale of the parks in Kenya or Tanzania. But Akagera’s scenery is beautiful – it could be described as Rwanda’s Lake District – and worth visiting for that alone. In stark contrast, Nyungwe is dense rainforest with interesting hiking trails, bird watching and primate spotting. Rwanda’s national parks are easily accessible by road, so a circuit of all three perhaps including the beautiful shore of Lake Kivu and the capital, Kigali, can make a fascinating and diverse holiday.
Mountain Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda
Tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda is the ultimate wildlife experience and the reason why most people come here on holiday: sitting within a small family group of gorillas is a ‘must’ for serious wildlife enthusiasts. This is where Dian Fossey first brought the world’s attention to the plight of these majestic primates in the late 1960s, when only around 250 survived. Today their numbers worldwide have increased to some 880, split between Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo; almost half of them live in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
The survival of mountain gorillas is one of Africa’s greatest conservation success stories, and tourism has played its role in this. Rwanda is regarded as probably the best destination for a gorilla tracking safari. Although gorilla tracking permits aren’t cheap, your permitted hour with these great apes promises to be a priceless encounter that will remain with you long after your holiday is over. To learn more about this fabulous experience, see Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris.
Primate holidays in Rwanda
Although mountain gorillas are the stars of the show, there are plenty of other primate tracking opportunities while on holiday in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest is home to thirteen different primate species, among them chimpanzees and Rwenzori colobus, both of which can be tracked. Indeed, Nyungwe’s colobus monkeys can sometimes be seen in spectacular troops of several hundred, believed to be among the largest numbers worldwide. And in Volcanoes National Park, two groups of endangered golden monkeys have been habituated for visitor tracking. Pretty and playful, they’re a delight to watch.
Classic safari holidays in Rwanda
Rwanda may not seem the obvious choice for a typical safari holiday, but if you’re travelling here anyway, Akagera National Park in the east of the country is worth exploring. Scenically it is one of Africa’s prettiest parks, with rolling hills and deep valleys, savannah plains to the north and lakes and papyrus swamps on its eastern border. It includes the largest protected wetlands in Central Africa and is home to some 8,000 animals and over 480 species of birds that include the rare shoebill, making Akagera an interesting destination for a bird watching holiday.
Safari Holidays in Rwanda
Holidays in Rwanda are possible all year, but the most popular times to travel are in the long dry season from June to September, and the shorter dry season around December to February. If you’re intending to track gorillas, you’ll need to plan your holiday well ahead to secure permits – especially around July to September. Rwanda’s main rainy season is from March to May, with shorter rains in October and November; to find out more see Rwanda’s weather and climate information.
Travelling around Rwanda
Travel in Rwanda is very comfortable on our safaris. The roads are largely good asphalt surfaces with many new roads being constructed to replace dirt roads. It’s not a place to drive yourself; our travellers use one of our private guides and 4WDs – allowing them to control the daily schedule and pace of their Rwanda holiday. It’s a lovely way to see the country, often with beautiful views around every corner.
Although there are some excellent hotels, Rwanda’s facilities can sometimes be basic; service and food can be poor, as many staffs are new to tourism. However, to glimpse the heart of contemporary Africa, for some wonderful wildlife viewing and inspiring, thought-provoking travel, a holiday in Rwanda can be fascinating.
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Souvenirs: Buying Crafts in Rwanda
Are you in search for Rwanda crafts (Art)? Or wanting to learn about Rwanda culture?
There is only one centre for Rwanda crafts and culture in the land of a thousand hills; Rwanda.
This is non other than CAPLAKI CAPLAKI is acronym for COOPERATIVE DES ARTISTES PLASTICIEN DES KIGALI since 1995, the cooperative aims at promoting Rwandan culture that the Genocide almost extorted. Henceforth, CAPLAKI aims at recollecting Rwandan history, traditions, and experiences from darkness. Therefore if you are a visitor looking for souvenirs after your Rwanda safari, CAPLAKI is the answer to your problem.
The richness of Rwandan culture is apparent in the wide range of fine crafts such as pottery, basketry, painting, jewelry, woodcarving, and metalwork. Traditional crafts such as basketry, ceramics, and ironworks also provide another distinctive element of continuity with the past.
As part of its promotional packages, the cooperative develops art skills among Rwandan youth especially dropouts to becoming the best artists. While the youth strive to become best artists making different types of art pieces and postal cards, the cooperative in turn seeks for ready market; both national and international market.
This will improve the youth’s and CAPLAKI‘s economic welfare.
In it marketing efforts, the cooperative is to construct a permanent structure in NYABUGOGO for its art crafts and works . It also plans to establish branches in RWANDA and in the outside WORLD . The Cooperative also seeks make Rwandan culture known globally not for its pitiable background, but as a culture, that accommodates all human nature.
In the region and the world afar, Rwandan culture is compared to non ,for it has unique features such as the dances that are given pride in the country’s cultural repertoire , the hug the smile…………
Apart from being known for their epic songs and dynastic poetry, build Rwandans cherish oral traditions of proverbs, songs and chants.
Be part of Rwanda’s history in making and erecting future opulence; Build Rwanda, Live Rwandan and buy Rwandan, Share the Rwandan experience
Together we can make a Better future,
BACKGROUND
Cooperative started with 11 members but now has 58 members. Five (5) of its members make up committee Board.
Board of Directors
President and Founder
Mr. Munyaneza Innocent
Mob:+250 08568596
Vice President
Mr. Muhizi Gerald
Mob:+250 08568596
Office +250 504227
Secretary
Karangwa Epimaque
Mob:+250 03021742
A Safari to Remember in Rwanda
Many things make a Rwanda safari a memorable one but a magical encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas can’t be forgotten. I went with my wife on a gorilla safari to Rwanda after my friend who had got that chance some time back told me how magnificent it is to sit among the remaining gorilla in their natural habitat. I had doubt because I didn’t know that you can meet these look to be tough apes in a close distance. I sat with my wife and planned this safari ounce in a life time to Africa.
We planned to travel in December to have our X-mass in the Volcanoes Park of Rwanda. We wrote to different tour and travel companies until we when we chose Gorilla Safaris Adventure, they charged us a fair price we took a 4 day gorilla and Diane Fossey hike safari Rwanda. They have good people right from those working in office to the field guides, Mbazira our tour consultant was there to give us any informative information about gorillas and Rwanda in general before we started our safari.
As soon as we arrived at Kigali international airport our safari guide was their waiting for us to take us to our booked accommodation in Kigali, he briefed about the whole safari we, slept at frame tree Hotel, the following day we were pick up by our safari guide who took us for a Kigali city tour were we visited very many interesting places around the city like the genocide memorial, national museum, market places, we took lunch from one of the beautiful restaurant in the city after we drove up to our booked lodge in the Volcanoes National Park for refreshment and overnight (Le Bambou Lodge).
On the day of our scheduled gorilla trek, we walked up every early for breakfast and then after our guide drove us to the park headquarters in Kinigi where we met other trackers, we received briefings from the park wardens about the whole process of gorilla tracking/trekking and from here we got assigned to the different tracking groups . We were assigned to a gorilla group called Kwitonda, we escorted the ranger guide to the forest, and everyone was excited about the activity. Our ranger guide was informative and he answered which ever question was asked and he gave us all necessary information on any species we met on the way during the search of our cousins.
Once we were about to meet these apes, the ranger guide alarmed us as he was in position to know where they are through their nest and dung he met after a long search. After a short while we met a group of gorillas with a dominant silver back which was sited on the ground critically looking at us eye to eye everyone was curious to have a close contact of a silver back, without a blink of an eye other members come around as if they were aware that we are coming. The ranger was there to guide us as we spot these apes. We took as many photos as well we can while studding their behaviors. In fact the one hour allowed with these apes is not enough because I was still interested in watching them, but we had to leave and return back to the park headquarters, each received a certificate for participating in gorilla tracking.
Our guide drove us back to the lodge for relaxation as the evening was waiting us for a community walk, where we met the Batwa pygmy. They performed us several activities including singing and dancing as well as teaching us their hunting skills. We come back to the lodge for dinner and an overnight, the night was full of memories of the day’s activities majorly the long life experience gorilla tracking. The next day was spent hiking the Diane grave yard; here we received more information about how she conducted her research on the gorillas for over 18 years before she was killed by the said poachers.
Our stay in Rwanda was a short-lived although we enjoyed a lot, next time we are planning a longer safari than that one we took, we are thinking of doing Uganda and Rwanda hope it will be more fantastic.
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Experience the Best of Rwanda’s Tourism
There are several unique tourism activities to do in Rwanda; this country is long past its war torn days and now it’s one of safest countries visited in Africa. You will feel the real true African country with lots of unique attractions which have attracted many safari tours to Rwanda. This country is extremely small and there is one unique thing about this small country, this is gorilla trekking which is done in volcanoes National park and it has raised increased revenues for the country.
There is the Kigali city which is in the heart of Rwanda, this gorgeous city with great weather can get you taste the history here through visiting the genocide memorials and here you will learn about the turbulent past of this country. You will also have a chance to visit the different local markets which are found in the city as well as the art facts and the craft shops which are found within the city. These have also attracted many safaris to Rwanda.
Thinking about Rwanda makes you come close to the mountain gorillas and these can be spotted in volcanoes National park which is found some few kilometers from Kigali city. You will enjoy a very unique experience taking an gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda, take this advantage and experience the largest group of gorillas when you come for a safari. Gorilla trekking can also be carried out in Uganda and the Democratic Republic Congo.
Rwanda has also got three national parks and these include; Akagera National park, Nyungwe National park and Volcanoes National park, there are many animal species which can be spotted in these national parks and some of these include; the chimpanzees, bird species, elephants, lions, leopards, and the monkeys. Lake Kivu also makes a border between Rwanda and Congo and it’s a great region where the tourists are safe to visit and swim, you will also visit the safari cities like Kibuye and Gisenyi near DR Congo border.
The other attractions which are found in Rwanda include; city tours, cultures, bird species and many wild animal species. The Butare is a cultural hub for the country and was once the most important city before 1965. You will also visit the great national museum which will help you explore the great history of Rwanda.
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When is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda Gorillas?
Mountain Gorilla tracking in Rwanda is one of the safari activities that is loved by many tourists when they visit this country because of the various types of groups of gorillas which was before in to wars thanks to the peace that was restored by the new government. In doing so, gorilla tracking has been one of the iconic activities since the Rwanda tourism board introduced a ceremony of naming newly born Gorillas called Kwita Izina and it is carried out mainly in Volcanoes National Park which is located in the north west of the country bordering Rwanda, Congo and Uganda. This activity has been mostly enjoyed and done by foreign tourists because of its prices that are cheap compared to the dollar rates. When you try to compare gorilla trekking in Rwanda and in the other countries like Uganda were it is done in bwindi impenetrable national park and DRC, you may wonder why Rwanda receives more than ever before.
Although countries like Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo do this activity as also as their main safari activity that brings in more income compared to other activities, Rwanda leads all of them in terms of number of tourists yearning for this activity. More so when you look at the permits that are given at US$750 that are higher than the rest of the countries (Uganda and DRC) because they do offer reliable good accommodation compared to other countries when it comes to offering good services to tourists.
To enjoy this activity in particular, there are number factors that are needed or considered when doing this activity one of them is climate and weather of the given national park. Mountain Gorilla tracking is mostly done in dry conditions which are favorable to both the tourists and the primates themselves.
To perform this activity in a wide scale, the dry periods of June to September, then from December, January and February are the best periods receiving good temperatures that favor gorilla tracking in volcanoes national park. it is for this reason that during this period, roads leading to the park in most cases are not muddy which eases movements of cars driving tourists to the national park and also, with in the park most especially when there is a safari that is going on.
Furthermore, in this period, prices for gorilla tracking tend to be high than other periods because tourists tend to be many because of the favorable climate that does not stop them from trekking. When you look at these primates in this period, their movements is limited in other words, they tend hide since in that time, there is limited food that is already for eating meaning taking gorilla tracking as an activity may take long to finish as the activity may even start from morning until in the evening hours trekking for a specific gorilla family unlike in other periods which are wet.
When you look at another side of the coin, the wet periods of March, April and May tend to be wet making the movements of the tourists more difficult or limited causing a scare to the tourism industry in terms of revenue to the government. During this season, at the top most of highlands in volcanoes national park, temperatures tend to be cooler. And that is why gorilla tracking in this period takes a short period of time from 1 to 2 hours because these primates do not normally move a lot when food is not in plenty. It is for this reason that tourists end up doing a double trek than what they asked to do.
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Things to Consider When Renting a Car in Rwanda
Tips to consider when renting a car in Rwanda. Understand the variables
- What the car company’s basic insurance covers?
This is the insurance that covers the car renter from being liable to the damages that may happen to the car like broken mirrors and glasses, dents, scratches and also the third party insurance where the vehicle is protected against any social hardship like destroying a property or person along the road. This kind of insurance is provided by every car rental company in Rwanda.
- What they charge for Collision damage waiver?
First of all collision damage waiver is insurance or protection offered to the car renter in that incase the car collides with another and gets the damages he/she is less liable. Most of the times, the car renter pays some amount of for collision damage waiver. So one has to ask the car rental company to know how much they charge for that kind of insurance if he/she would like to be covered.
- The cost of theft insurance
Theft insurance is the type of insurance offered to car renter to limit his liability in case of stealing the rental car in his/her possession. In Rwanda before you commit to a car rental know the cost of theft insurance.
- The cost of adding another driver
There are few companies or no company in Rwanda that charge for additional driver. An additional driver is normally a colleague or companion the car renter travels with but would also wish to drive the car at some point. So if you land on any car rental company in Rwanda that charges for an additional driver then ask the cost.
- One-way rental fees (if you’ll be returning the car to a different city)
Sometimes people rent cars for one route without returning to the point where he/she started his/her journey and the car rental agency picks up the car at another point where the traveler has left the car. However, this option comes with a fee and as a car renter you has to know the cost of one way rental.
- Office locations and hours (consider the most efficient pickup and drop-off points)
When renting a car you have to know the location of the premises and the working hours of the car rental company you have booked with in Rwanda. this gives you the insight the most efficient pick up and drop off points.
- Whether it’d be cheaper to pick up the car from an office in the city center
This normally works for budget car renter who would like to minimize cost of car rental so they always look for the cheaper point to pick up the rental car from.
- The cost of changing your drop-off location or time
Most of the car rental companies Rwanda charge their clients who wish to change the location or time of dropping off the rental car so as the car renter ensure you get to know the cost of changing your drop off location or time.
- The availability and cost of extras you might want, such as automatic transmission, child-safety seats, GPS, or Wi-Fi.
Almost all car rental agencies offer GPS extra child seat and these usually come with a price. It is advisable for a renter to know their availability of the cost of acquiring them.
- Age restrictions (if you or any co-drivers are under 21)
The minimum age of renting a car in Rwanda is 21 year below that you ineligible to rent a car so ensure you above that age.
- Cancellation fees, in case your itinerary changes
Car rental companies in Rwanda charge their customers who wish to cancel their reservation of renting a car especially those who have paid some deposit or all the money. There are always percentages of money charged of the number of the days remaining to take up your car rental before cancellation.
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Benefits of Renting a Car in Rwanda
Rwanda is a large safari destination blessed with an abundance of tourist attractions situated in all corners of the country, some within the city and other in remote areas inter connected by various tarmac and murram roads and this is where you definitely need to rent a car plus driver or go on a self-drive trip.
Opting for public transport may seem a much cheaper option but in the long run is more expensive than hiring a car , from the time uncertainties to the discomfort you get when ride with other unknown passengers, we recommend you go online or visit Rwanda car rental and reserve yourself a car for your holiday.
Below are the benefits of renting a car
Easy to travel with and well streamlined
If you are looking for convenience and organisation in the transport means, car hire Rwanda is the right choice. The vehicle picks you right from your home or airport to drive you to your preferred destination. You also do not have to sit with your luggage on the same seat as there is a trunk where the luggage is placed. They are also spacious and hence giving you a comfortable ride.
Stress free
Once you make a booking of the car hire services your job is done, the rest will be handled by the driver. The chauffeur will be the one to carry your luggage into the car and also to lead you to the destination you are might to go. It is a hassle free means of transport. For you as a traveller, you just have to sit at the back seat of the car and let it roll till you reach your destination.
Secure
The drivers hired with car hire services Rwanda are very well qualified and skilled. They always drive their clients in the safest manner possible. They adhere to the traffic rules and regulations and also drive at the recommendable speed. Also your luggage is always safe and secure when traveling with car hire Rwanda. The luggage is kept in the boot and also you are always alone in the car with your driver.
Fast Travel
Car hire services are very quick, they waste no time on the road. They always lead the passengers direct to their designated points without stopovers. They also use the shortest routes possible to reach your preferred destination as the drivers are well experience and know how to beat the traffic congestion in Rwanda.
Exclusive
The car hire services are only and only used by a certain client at that specified time booked. There is nothing like sharing a ride with a stranger. It gives the passenger that luxury of privacy and independence while traveling around Rwanda. Who on earth does not love privacy and independence while traveling? It gives you that peace of mind and hence having a wonderful travel experience.
Extra incentives
There are always extra complementary services given to the clients of Rwanda car hire services. The vehicle rental services in Rwanda normally offer GPS, extra baby seats and camping gears to their customers. These extra facilities given to travellers help them to have a very interesting and enjoyable experience since they enhance traveling in some way or the other.
Point-to-point Services
The car hire services in Rwanda always make an effort to bring the transport services right at your door step or any designated point of preference. This makes the traveller’s trip experience easy.
Affordable
When you going to have a long distance travel it means you will need some days out and hiring a car for many days is somehow cheaper where by some car rental agencies offer discounts on clients taking the car for many days and is charged a fixed price for the whole trip the thing which make it cheaper than a public transport where by further you travel the more expenses you incur. And there are some destinations in the country which cannot be accessed by public transport thus a need to use other means of transport like cyclists or taxicab to reach there. When you add up the whole amount you will find that public transport is a bit expensive for a long distance traveler than hiring a private car.
Car Options
You don’t have to be limited to one car during your road trip, a majority of companies offer a wide range of rental cars to choose from. Whether you want a small sedan or a mid-sized van that fits a small group/ family , you can get whatever you ask for just as long as you remember to book early most especially during the high season months. You can book online or visit the offices in person.
Self-Drive
Public transportation limits you to being driven by the owner or company employee which isn’t the case when you rent a car in Rwanda, you have a choice of getting behind the steering wheel which popularly known as self-drive. This option offers you all the privacy, freedom and flexibility to visit whichever destination you want, make stop-overs whenever you want ensuring you travel at your own pace and time.
Chauffeur / Driver
If you’re not well versed with the roads and traffic regulations in Rwanda, then you could always benefit more if you hire a chauffeur in Rwanda to guide and help you along the journey. You won’t be guaranteed a professional driver when you use public transportation which isn’t the case here, you can choose a driver or let the company reservations team get you the best one ensuring you travel in safe hands.
Avoid Transmitted diseases
Hiring a car in Rwanda would save you from contracting Covid-19 in this travelling period. One of the high covid-19 transmitting places is public means and stations because of the unavoidable contact made among people. It is even getting worse during this travelling season due to the high influx of people. Therefore, one of the ways to save you from catching covid-19 while travelling is by hiring a car.
Conclusion
Rwanda has lots of transport means to use while traveling around. The ball is always left on the traveller’s court to choose the best means to use. Nonetheless, many travellers end up choosing car hire services. The car hire services are very rewarding and convenient to travellers especially those traveling for a distinguished purpose and foreigner travellers.
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