How long does it take to get the Rwanda Visa?

Are you planning to travel to Rwanda and you want to know how long does it take to get the Rwanda Visa? The processing time for a Rwanda visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the method of application. Generally:

1. Online Application (eVisa): It usually takes about 3 to 5 business days to process an eVisa application for Rwanda.
2. Visa on Arrival: From 1st Jan 2018, Nationals of all countries can receive the Rwanda visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and all land borders. This process typically takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the queue.
3. Embassy or Consulate: If you apply for a visa through a Rwandan embassy or consulate, it can take a bit longer, usually around 5 to 10 business days.

Which countries are exempt from the Rwanda Visa

Citizens of countries members to the following international organizations; African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie get visas upon arrival and are waived visa fees for a visit of 30 days in Rwanda.

A citizen of East African Community Member States and Africa shall be issued a pass/entry visa free of charge upon arrival to stay for the period of six months.

The following countries to be granted 90 days Rwanda valid visa free of charge upon arrival: Angola, Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, The Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, Ghana, Guinea, Indonesia, Haiti, Mauritius, Philippines, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Singapore and the state Qatar.

Citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt have an option of applying online or at the Rwanda Diplomatic Mission of the country of residence before departure. Those applying online have the option to pay online or upon arrival. There is no single affiliated agent that is authorized to apply for a visa on your behalf.

The visa fees must not exceed 50 USD for a single entry visa or 70 USD for multiple entry.

Activities to do and Attractions to see on a Trip in Rwanda

There is a variety of activities and attractions you can visit during your stay Kigali Rwanda depending on your interests and budget. Here are some ideas in Rwanda:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Experience: Trek through the lush rainforest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Accommodation: Stay in luxury lodges such as Bisate Lodge or Singita Kwitonda Lodge, offering stunning views and exceptional service.

2. Safari in Akagera National Park

• Experience: Enjoy game drives to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other wildlife. Boat safaris on Lake Ihema are also popular.
• Accommodation: Stay at Magashi Camp or Ruzizi Tented Lodge for an intimate and luxurious safari experience.

3. Relaxation at Lake Kivu

• Experience: Relax on the shores of Lake Kivu, indulge in water sports, or take a boat trip to the nearby islands.
• Accommodation: Choose from a range of lakeside hotels and resorts such as Lake Kivu Serena Hotel or Cormoran Lodge.

4. Cultural Experience in Kigali

• Experience: Explore the vibrant capital city, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and enjoy the local markets and art galleries.
• Accommodation: Stay in upscale hotels like the Kigali Marriott Hotel or the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.

5. Nature and Hiking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Experience: Hike through one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including chimpanzees and numerous bird species. The canopy walk is a highlight.
• Accommodation: Stay at the luxurious One&Only Nyungwe House, offering immersive nature experiences and wellness retreats.

6. Tea Plantation Tours

• Experience: Visit tea plantations such as Gisovu or Gisakura for a tour and tasting. Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the serene landscapes.
• Accommodation: Combine with a stay at Nyungwe Forest for a complete nature and tea experience.

7. Adventure Activities

• Experience: Engage in adventure activities such as hiking Mount Karisimbi, biking along the Congo Nile Trail, or kayaking on Lake Kivu.
• Accommodation: Depending on the activity, you can find suitable lodges and hotels nearby.

Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park

Lodges in Volcanoes National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options, Luxury options include Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Bisate Lodge, Virunga Volcanoes Lodge, Five Volcanoes Hotels and Mountain Gorillas’ Nest Lodge. Their price range from USD300 to USD1000 per person per night give you the best time ever during your stay during your gorilla trekking safari in Volcanoes National Park.

The Midrange lodge options at Volcanoes National Park include Mountain Gorilla View Lodge and Lebambou Gorilla Lodge, Davinci Lodge. For budge travels the options are many from basic accommodation to camping one can choose from Kinigi Hotel, Hotel Muhabura, Gorilla Solution Lodge, Villa Gorilla, Virunga Hotel, Faraji Hotel and La Palme Hotel or Home Inn.

Where to stay in Akagera National Park

Lodges in Akagera National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options, Luxury options include Akagera Game Lodge, Akagera Rhino Lodge and Ruzizi Tented Camp. The prices range from USD200 to USD300 per person per night. 

Where to stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Lodges in Nyungwe Forest National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options, Luxury options include One and Only Nyungwe House. Their price range from USD300 to USD1000 per person per night give you the best time ever during your stay during your safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park, They have great hospitality, clean rooms, VIP rooms and all have put in place the set SOPs for prevention of the spread of the corona virus and all are ensuring safety and health of their clients.

The Midrange lodge options at Nyungwe Forest National Park include Nyungwe Top View Hotel and Gisakura Lodge.

What is the best time visit Rwanda?

Rwanda can be visited throughout the year. The dry season from June to September and December to February every year is the best time to visit Rwanda National parks. The parks can as well be visited all year round and you will be able to see the wildlife, dry seasons offer great sighting of wildlife compared to wet seasons. Mountain Gorilla, Golden Monkey and Chimpanzee trekking is best done in the dry season and birding is best in wet seasons.

Why book your Trip to Rwanda Through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris boasts of a professional office and field team that takes care of all your requests and inquiries for Visiting Rwanda. We are highly recommended on Trip Advisor as well as Trust Pilot. Our website is one of the best and most reliable points to help you start preparing for your tour, we have the best and updated information that you can rely on. Eco Adventure Safaris is owned and run by Ugandans who have well explored Uganda for many years and as such, you will be dealing with a team that sells what they know. Please feel free to contact us here about how long does it take to get the Rwanda Visa.