Travel Information Pack
TIME
GMT+2
LANGUAGE
Kinyarwanda, English, French and Kiswahili
CURRENCY
Rwandan Franc (FRw)
POPULATION
13.7 million
TELECOMMS
MTN and Airtel
CLIMATE
Rwanda's long dry season lasts from end June to the end of August. Daily high temperatures are around 23°C (79°F), rarely falling below 23°C (75°F) or exceeding 28°C (83°F). Overnight temperatures are generally mild with an average low of 15 °C (59 °F). Kigali is safe, clean, and a competitive modern city with expanding opportunities.
BANKING SERVICES
Average banking hours are from 08:00 to 18:00hrs from Monday to Friday and from 08:00 to 15:00hrs on Saturday, except from Umuganda day (community work), every last Saturday of the month. Some branches are open on Sunday. Banking amenities are available at all commercial banks. Most banks have cash dispensing machines accepting Visa and MasterCard. Foreign exchange facilities are available in all parts of Kigali city.
Most internationally recognised currencies and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged at commercial banks, hotels and international airport. Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops.
CONNECTIVITY
The following mobile telecommunication service providers are available: MTN, Airtel
Mobile telephone service companies provide internet via GPRS, 3G and 4G and will be offering special CHOGM packs. Cell phone SIM cards are widely available; however, every SIM card user/buyer in Rwanda is expected by law to be registered for activation on presentation of an identification document (ID card or passport). The SIM card can be registered at the point of purchase.
PLASTIC BAN
As part of an environmental protection policy, plastic bags are not allowed into Rwanda. Passengers entering Kigali International Airport (KIA), or any other border posts with plastic bags are required to discard them. They will be supplied with an environmentally friendly alternative at a cost.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
The power supply in Rwanda is 220V AC, 50Hz. Electrical sockets are rounded two pronged (EU). Most hotels provide adaptors on request.
DRIVER’S LICENSE
Rwanda recognises international driver’s licenses, as well as certain national driver’s licenses. The license must be carried when driving a motor vehicle. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Front seat passengers of motor vehicles must wear seatbelts. It is prohibited to use mobile phones while driving.