Rwanda, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers visitors a stunning landscape to explore. To make the most of your Rwandan adventure, it’s essential to have an understanding of the various transportation options available, the transport means to get you to Rwanda (Airlines) and the ones to get you around as you explore the different attractions.

Transport Options to Rwanda (How to Get to Rwanda)

For international visitors, Rwanda has a standard international airport in the capital city, Kigali. The airport receives planes from several destinations in Europe and Africa itself. The airport has international flights to airports of Dubai, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Doha from outside Africa, and Lagos, Brazzaville, Entebbe, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Bujumbura, and Johannesburg in Africa. The country’s national carrier is RwandAir. Several of the world’s leading airlines operate in the region and land at this airport and these include; Fly Emirates, SN Brussels, KLM, Qatar, Ethiopian, and South African Airways. RwandAir also operates within the country and the entire East African region and makes landings at smaller airports in Rwanda like Kamembe. it has routes from UAE, Dubai, France, Paris, India, Mumbai, Belgium, Brussels, UK, London Heathrow, USA, Newyork and Boston, and Qatar, Doha.  With RwandAir operating direct routes from and to most of the popular airports in Europe, America, the Middle East, and Asia, tourists are offered a cheap convenient, and short transport option to Rwanda.

Ground Transport Options to Tour Around Rwanda (How to Get Around Rwanda)

To make the most of your Rwandan adventure, it’s essential to have an understanding of the various transportation options available. From tour operator car hire to public buses and the popular boda bodas, Rwanda has a diverse range of choices to suit every traveler’s needs. Let’s delve into these transportation modes and discover how they can enhance your journey through this beautiful country.

1. Tour Operator Car Hire: For travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and personalized service, hiring a car from a reputable tour operator is an excellent choice. These companies provide well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers who are knowledgeable about the local attractions. Whether you’re planning a wildlife safari or exploring Rwanda’s cultural heritage, a tour operator car hire ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
2. Metered/App Car Hire: Metered or app-based car hire services have gained popularity in Rwanda’s major cities, such as Kigali. These services, similar to rideshare platforms found in other countries, provide a convenient and reliable way to navigate urban areas. Using a smartphone app, you can book a car and be picked up from your location. This option offers flexibility and ease, especially for short trips or when you prefer not to drive yourself.
3. Public Buses: Rwanda’s public bus network is extensive and connects various cities, towns, and villages across the country. These buses are an affordable and popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. While they may not offer the same level of comfort as private vehicles, they provide an opportunity to interact with locals, experience Rwandan culture firsthand, and enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way.
4. Boda Bodas: Boda bodas, or motorcycle taxis, are a unique and thrilling way to get around Rwanda. Found in cities, towns, and even rural areas, these two-wheeled vehicles provide a quick and convenient means of transportation, especially for short distances. Although they may not be suitable for everyone, adventurous travelers looking for an adrenaline rush and an authentic local experience can opt for boda-bodas. However, it’s important to prioritize safety by wearing a helmet and ensuring that the driver is experienced and licensed.

Transportation in Rwanda offers a range of options to suit different preferences and travel needs. Whether you choose the comfort and expertise of tour operator car hire, the convenience of metered/app car hire, the affordability of public buses, or the excitement of boda bodas, each mode of transport has its own unique advantages. Embrace the diversity of Rwanda’s transportation options and embark on a memorable journey through this captivating country, soaking in its natural beauty and vibrant culture along the way.

The best option for tourists on a safari is tour operator car hire due to its safety, convenience, comfort, exclusivity, and reliance.  Mark you, Rwanda has a total of 12,000 km of roads, and of that entire total, only 1,000 km are paved. The remaining km are dirt roads with quality differing from hard smooth surfaces with drainage to uneven, extremely uneven tracks passable only with 4X4 wheel drive vehicles. However, most tourist locations are reachable with a four-wheel drive vehicle and this is what is recommended for travel around Rwanda.