After you’ve decided on a destination and have scoped out which activities you’d like to do, the next question that arises is: “What should I pack?”. If you’re traveling to Rwanda, I’ve got you covered.
In this checklist for foreign travelers we’ll go over everything you could possibly need for a trip to Rwanda. From the absolute essentials to clothing, all you need to know is here.
Travel documents
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
- Visa. Our guide on how to apply for a Rwanda visa will help you through the process.
- Travel insurance. It should cover medical evacuation and all your activities (safaris, trekkings, etc.).
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re from an endemic country
- Printed copies of all important documents for back up
Essential items for your trip to Rwanda
- Backpack, ideally waterproof
- Locks for all your bags
- Camera
- Phone
- List of emergency phone numbers
Currency
- Cash to exchange for the local currency, the Rwandan franc. You need it for transactions outside of tourist centers and bills of lower denominations to tip your guides/porters. Check the current exchange rate before traveling.
- Credit or debit cards. Consult with your bank before traveling to avoid any issues after your arrival.
Connectivity
- Power adapter: Rwanda uses plugs type C and J, 230V
- Local SIM card or, if your phone is compatible, an eSIM
- Downloaded maps covering your entire itinerary
- Phone charger
Health-related items
Rwanda’s main tourist attractions are its wildlife and landscapes. In order to properly enjoy your trip and all your planned activities, you need to carry some essential items to protect yourself against natural dangers. Rwanda’s health system has a lower quality than what you would find in most developed countries, so always try to be prepared.
- Recommended vaccines for international travelers
- First aid kit. It should include medication for pain and digestive issues, band-aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes and blister prevention.
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Anti-malarial medication (check with your doctor)
What to carry in your backpack
The following items will come in handy if you plan on spending most of your time outside:
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Reusable water bottle or hydration packs
- Dry bags
- Tote bag/any cloth bag
- Energy snacks
- Portable charger for your phone
- Extra batteries if you carry a camera
- Extra memory cards
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Clothing
You should determine how many clothing items to bring depending on the length of your trip.
If you’re going on safari, pack neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green and beige). Avoid dark tones (such as black or navy) and bright or white garments to avoid scaring the wildlife and attracting bugs. Also, never wear military-style or camouflage clothes to avoid being confused for a government official.
Try to purchase quick-drying clothes. This will allow you to pack lighter since you can wash your underwear and outerwear while you shower. Rwanda can be very humid, terrible for drying clothes, so it’s even more important that you carry things that can dry as quickly as possible.
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Long socks
- Pants. Waterproof for excursions and another pair for exploring the big cities.
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Lightweight neck gaiter
- Rain protection (waterproof jacket or poncho)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Warm clothes for nighttime
- Garden gloves if you’re planning to go hiking
- Shorts
- Tank tops
- Street shoes
- Swimwear (depending on the season and if your accommodation has a pool)
- Sandals/flip flops
- Light scarf or shawl. Women will need one for conservative areas and places of worship.
- Skirts or dresses that go below the knees for women visiting conservative areas
What should you avoid bringing to Rwanda?
- Disposable plastic bags: they’re banned
- Any prescription medication without the proper medical authorization
- Drones, unless you have the permission of the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority
