April 25, 2022
Welcome to Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills! Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, we at The Hut Hotel & Restaurant want to ensure your trip is smooth and memorable. Here are some essential tips for first time visitors to Rwanda to help you make the most of your visit.
Rwanda has unique cultural norms and national observances that may impact your plans. Understanding these will help you make the most of your time here.
Umuganda (Community Service Day) – On the last Saturday of every month, from morning until noon, businesses close, and locals participate in mandatory community clean-up efforts. Visitors are encouraged to observe or even join in.
Car-Free Days – On certain Sundays, Kigali hosts car-free mornings where people walk, jog, or cycle. Main roads are closed to vehicles, so check schedules in advance.
April Genocide Memorial Month – Every April, Rwanda observes a period of remembrance for the 1994 Genocide. It’s a time of mourning, and entertainment activities are toned down. Visitors are welcome at memorial sites but should dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor. Please read more about this here.
Your travel experience should be as smooth as possible, and staying at The Hut Boutique Hotel ensures that:
Airport pickup and chauffeur service—Skip the hassle of taxis and let us handle your transportation.
On-site boutique—Didn’t pack for Rwanda’s unpredictable weather? Our shop has stylish and climate-friendly clothing.
Personalized tours—We arrange guided trips to top attractions like Lake Kivu, Volcanoes National Park, and Akagera National Park.
Scheduled itineraries—Whether it’s a Kigali city tour, a wildlife safari, or a cultural experience, we plan everything for you.
After a long day of exploring, relax at our rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine with panoramic views of the city, or treat yourself to fresh pastries from our in-house bakery.
Rwanda is often praised as one of the cleanest countries in Africa, and it’s taken very seriously here. Littering is strictly forbidden, and there are hefty fines for violating cleanliness laws. Even stepping on grass or flower beds in public areas can lead to penalties.
Additionally, plastic bags are completely banned in Rwanda. If you bring them in your luggage, they will likely be confiscated at the airport. Instead, opt for reusable or paper bags, which align with the country’s eco-conscious policies.
At The Hut Hotel, we support Rwanda’s sustainability efforts by using environmentally friendly packaging and reusable amenities to ensure a luxurious yet eco-friendly stay.
Although Rwanda enjoys a temperate climate year-round, the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the hills. Sudden rains can surprise you even on a sunny day, so it’s best to always carry:
A light jacket or scarf
A compact umbrella
Comfortable walking shoes
If you forget to pack for the weather, don’t worry—our boutique at The Hut Hotel has a selection of high-quality clothing perfect for Rwanda’s changing conditions.
Rwandans are warm and welcoming, and showing respect in your interactions goes a long way. Greetings are important—handshakes, sometimes accompanied by a light touch on the arm, are common.
Learning a few Kinyarwanda phrases can enhance your experience:
Muraho – Hello
Murakoze – Thank you
Yego – Yes
Oya – No
However, avoid discussing sensitive topics like ethnicity or politics, as these are deeply personal matters in Rwandan society.
While Rwanda has safe and efficient transport options, navigating a new city can be overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know.
Taxis – Available in Kigali, and most are metered. However, it’s always wise to confirm the fare before starting the ride.
Moto-taxis – The quickest way to get around. Always wear the provided helmet and negotiate the price before hopping on.
Buses – Cheap and reliable for getting between cities but often crowded during peak hours.
If you stay at The Hut Hotel, you won’t have to worry about any of this. Our chauffeur service is available for airport transfers, city tours, and out-of-town excursions, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
Beyond Kigali, Rwanda has incredible places to explore.
Volcanoes National Park – The famous mountain gorillas live here. Book your trekking permit months in advance.
Akagera National Park – A Big Five safari experience just a few hours from Kigali.
Nyungwe Forest – A breathtaking rainforest home to chimpanzees and the famous canopy walk.
Lake Kivu – Perfect for boat cruises, swimming, and relaxing by the shore.
At The Hut Hotel, we organize fully guided tours to all these locations, so you can enjoy them hassle-free.
Rwandan cuisine is delicious yet underrated. Don’t leave without trying:
Brochettes – Rwanda’s signature grilled meat skewers
Isombe – Cassava leaves cooked in peanut sauce
Igisafuria – A flavorful local stew
For the best dining experience in Kigali, visit The Hut’s rooftop restaurant. We serve gourmet meals with a mix of Rwandan and international flavors, all while you enjoy panoramic views of the city. If you’re a fan of baked goods, don’t miss out on our in-house bakery, which serves freshly made bread and pastries daily.
Malaria prevention – Bring insect repellent and take anti-malarial medication if necessary especially for trekking or wildlife tours.
Travel insurance is recommended.
Rwanda is one of the most photogenic countries in Africa, but be mindful when taking photos. Always ask for permission before photographing people, and avoid snapping pictures of government buildings or genocide memorials without approval.
By following these tips, you’ll have a stress-free and unforgettable experience in Rwanda. And when you stay at The Hut Boutique Hotel, we handle all the logistics—from transportation and guided tours to gourmet dining and premium accommodations—so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your trip.
Murakarame neza! (Safe travels!)
