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Rwandan children

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Getting Around Rwanda

Air: 

Akagera Aviation (+250 788 308 382 / +250 252 580 234) provides helicopter flights all over the country. Rwandair flies internally to the southeastern town of Cyangugu.

Departure tax: 

None.

Road: 

There is a lot of work being done to improve the roads, and in some places you will find smooth tarmac, while in others you will be going along pot-holed dirt paths. Extra care should be taken at night, as headlight use is erratic. During rainy season some roads can become impassable.

Side of road: 
Right
Road quality: 

Some local roads are not paved and a 4-wheel drive vehicle is needed. There can be landslides on some of the major roads during annual rainfall in spring and autumn.

Car hire: 

There are no international car hire companies operating in Rwanda, but there are several local companies. You will find these listed in the Eye magazine given away at the airport and in hotels (www.theeye.co.rw)

Taxi: 

Taxis can be found in large towns and cities, look for the official orange stripe. Fares are reasonable, but should be agreed in advance (ask a local if you think you are being overcharged). Tipping is not expected.

Bike: 

Bicycle and scooter taxis are the quickest and cheapest way to get around in the towns, however they are risky.

Coach: 

Minibus taxis provide links to and from all towns and some villages. Although it is not usual for foreigners to travel this way they are quite safe and efficient. However you will have to wait until they are full before departure if you get on at the start of the route. The Virunga Express (www.virungatravel.com) and Onatracom Express provide more direct intercity links.

Regulations: 

Rwanda drives on the right. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless with a hands-free set. Seat belts must be worn in the front. It is advised not to drive after drinking, breathalisers are in use and if found to have more than 0.8 mg of alcohol per 1 liter of blood you face imprisonment. Speed limits are 40km/per hour in the city and 60km outside the city. If the car in front is using the left indicator it often means it is not safe to overtake, the right indicator tells you the road ahead is clear.

Breakdown service: 

Most car hire companies will provide you with a number to call in the event of a breakdown. The traffic police can be called on 0831 1115/1114.

Documentation: 

An International Driving Permit is required. An entry permit is needed if you have travelled from outside the country, insurance document and driving licence.

By water: 

You can hire a boat to take you from Gisenyi to Kibuye if you ask at one of the lakeside hotels.

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