Rwanda

Travel tips for Rwanda: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and gas stations in Kigali, you will need cash for smaller shops and moto-taxis unless you set up a local MTN Mobile Money (MoMo) account upon arrival.

Try the food

  • Brochettes: These ubiquitous grilled meat skewers, typically made of goat or beef, are marinated in savory spices and served sizzling hot.
  • Isombe: This hearty, earthy dish consists of pounded cassava leaves slow-cooked with palm oil, peanut butter, and sometimes meat stock.
  • Akabenz: A popular bar snack of succulent, marinated roasted pork that is often enjoyed with a cold local beer.
  • Ugali: A dense, dough-like maize porridge that acts as the perfect edible utensil for scooping up rich stews and sauces.

Say it in Kinyarwanda

  • Hello: Muraho
  • Thank you: Murakoze
  • Please: Nyabuneka
  • Excuse me: Imbabazi
  • How much is this?: Ni angahe?
  • Yes / No: Yego / Oya
  • Goodbye: Murabeho

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Pick up an MTN or Airtel SIM card at Kigali International Airport upon arrival, ensuring you have your passport handy for mandatory registration.

Etiquette

Avoid eating or drinking while walking down the street, as it is considered highly impolite in Rwandan culture.

Airports in Rwanda