​10 Mistakes Travelers Make in Rwanda

Visiting Rwanda for the first time is exciting. Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda offers breathtaking scenery, rich culture, wildlife encounters, and one of the safest travel experiences in Africa. However, many first time visitors make avoidable mistakes that can affect their trip. To help you plan a smooth and enjoyable journey, here are the top 10 mistakes travelers make in Rwanda and how you can avoid them.

1. Thinking Rwanda Is Only About Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is a top bucket list experience, but Rwanda offers much more. Many visitors skip Akagera National Park, Nyungwe Forest, and Lake Kivu, missing out on safaris, canopy walks, chimpanzee tracking, beach relaxation, and cultural experiences.

2. Booking Gorilla Permits Too Late

Gorilla permits are limited and often sell out months in advance, especially in high season (June–September and December). Its is advised to book your gorilla trekking permit 3 to 6 months before your travel date to secure availability.

3. Underestimating the Trek Difficulty

Some first time travelers assume that gorilla trekking is a simple nature walk, but the experience can be physically demanding. The trek involves hiking through dense forest, uneven terrain, and in some cases, steep and muddy slopes. To fully enjoy the adventure, it is important to be well prepared. Wear sturdy hiking boots, long pants, gaiters or long socks, gardening gloves, and carry a light rain jacket.

You can also request a trek that matches your fitness level by asking to visit a gorilla family located closer or on more manageable terrain, depending on your physical ability.

4. Not Carrying Local Cash

Rwanda is a modern and largely cashless economy, especially in major cities where mobile money (MoMo) and card payments are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and service centers. However, many first-time travelers are caught off guard when they visit rural areas, local markets, craft shops, or roadside vendors where cash is still preferred or required.

5. Ignoring Local Culture and Etiquette

Rwandans value respect, politeness, and community-minded behavior, and these values are visible in everyday interactions. Some travelers overlook simple cultural courtesies such as greeting people, showing appreciation, or dressing modestly especially in rural areas without realizing it may come across as disrespectful.

Taking a moment to greet locals, ask questions politely, or show interest in the culture goes a long way in creating positive connections.

6. Drinking Tap Water

Tap water is not recommended for travelers. Drink bottled or filtered water, which most hotels and lodges provide.

7. Staying Only in Kigali

Kigali is safe, clean, and vibrant, but the magic of Rwanda lies beyond the capital. Skipping the countryside means missing national parks, tea plantations, and cultural experiences.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Add Musanze, Nyungwe, Lake Kivu, or Akagera to your itinerary to experience the best of Rwanda.

8. Misjudging Travel Time Between Destinations

Rwanda is small, but its hilly landscape means travel takes longer than expected. Schedule transfers with buffer time and enjoy scenic stops along the way.

9. Taking Photos Without Permission

Some visitors take photos of people or restricted sites without consent. Always ask before photographing people and avoid taking pictures of government or military areas.

10. Forgetting Travel Insurance

Because Rwanda offers adventurous activities such as gorilla trekking, hiking, boat trips, and wildlife safaris, having travel insurance is very important. Unexpected situations like minor injuries, sudden illness, lost luggage, or trip delays can happen, and insurance helps protect you from costly inconveniences.

All in all, Rwanda is one of Africa’s safest, most welcoming, and most inspiring destinations. With proper planning, cultural awareness, and a spirit of adventure, your first trip to Rwanda will be unforgettable. If you are looking for a trusted and experienced tour company to craft a seamless, personalized, and thrilling journey, Unique Rwanda Vacation Tours is here to guide you. We specialize in organizing exceptional travel experiences in Rwanda and across East Africa, tailored to your interests, comfort, and travel style. Reach out to us today and let us design a journey that exceeds your expectations.