Comparing Car Hire Costs in Rwanda and Kenya
When planning a self-guided trip in Africa, it’s important to compare car hire costs between Rwanda and Kenya to make an informed decision. Both countries offer unique experiences and landscapes, but the cost of renting a vehicle can vary. Understanding these differences will help you budget effectively and ensure a smooth travel experience in either destination.
- Overview of Car Hire in Rwanda and Kenya
Car hire is a popular choice for travellers in both Rwanda and Kenya, especially those wishing to explore national parks, scenic routes, and rural areas. In both countries, the primary rental vehicles are 4x4s, such as Toyota Land Cruisers LX, V8, Rav4, Safari Van, and Prado, which are well-suited for the varied terrains encountered during self-drive tours.
Both Rwanda and Kenya have a range of car hire options, including local and international companies, with choices ranging from self-drive to chauffeur-driven vehicles. The cost of hiring a car can vary based on several factors, including the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the time of year.
- Base Rental Costs
The base rental cost is a significant factor in determining the overall expense of hiring a vehicle. This cost varies based on the vehicle type, the duration of the rental, and the season.
- Rwanda: In Rwanda, the daily rate for a basic 4×4 vehicle, such as a Toyota RAV4, typically ranges from $55 to $60. For a more rugged vehicle like a Toyota Land Cruiser, the daily rental can range from $90 to $140. Prices can be slightly lower for long-term rentals, and some companies offer discounts for extended hires.
- Kenya: In Kenya, the daily rental cost for a Toyota Land Cruiser, the daily rental rate ranges from $150 to $180. Kenya’s prices tend to be higher compared to Rwanda, reflecting the increased demand for vehicles, particularly in popular tourist areas.
- Vehicle Availability and Demand
The availability of vehicles and the demand in each country can influence rental costs.
- Rwanda: Rwanda’s tourism industry is growing, with increasing interest in gorilla trekking and exploring national parks like Volcanoes National Park and Akagera National Park. However, the demand for rental vehicles is not as high as in Kenya, leading to more competitive pricing among local car hire companies.
- Kenya: Kenya is a major safari destination with a well-established tourism sector. Popular destinations like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo attract large numbers of visitors, creating high demand for rental vehicles. This increased demand, especially during peak tourist seasons, contributes to higher rental costs.
- Insurance Costs
Insurance is a crucial component of car hire costs and varies between Rwanda and Kenya.
- Rwanda & Kenya: Self Drive East Africa provides comprehensive and third-party insurance as standard with all car rentals. This Insurance Policy covers ONLY, Head on Collusion and theft for the motor vehicle. The policy does not cover any damage caused by negligence such as driving under the influence of alcohol, wheels/trims, cigarette burns (Our vehicles are all non- smoking), punctures, damage to radio covers, badges, passing through water and the engine knocking etc. This policy does not cover Personal Life Insurance for the occupant. The Renter is advised to come with a life insurance policy from his / her home country.
- Fuel Costs
Fuel prices significantly impact the overall cost of car hire, and they vary between Rwanda and Kenya.
Rwanda:
- Petrol: Approximately RWF 1,500 – 1,700 per liter, which is about USD 1.35 – 1.53 per liter
- Diesel: Approximately RWF 1,400 – 1,600 per liter, which is about USD 1.26 – 1.44 per liter. The generally lower fuel prices in Rwanda contribute to lower overall travel costs compared to Kenya.
Kenya: In Kenya, fuel prices are slightly higher
- Petrol: Approximately KES 220 – 240 per liter, which is about USD 1.52 – 1.68 per liter.
- Diesel: Approximately KES 200 – 220 per liter, which is about USD 1.40 – 1.52 per liter.
The higher fuel costs, combined with potentially longer distances between destinations, can lead to higher overall expenses for travellers.
- Road Conditions and Maintenance Costs
The condition of roads can impact the maintenance costs of rental vehicles, influencing rental rates.
- Rwanda: Rwanda is known for its relatively well-maintained roads, especially in urban areas and popular tourist regions. However, some rural and remote areas may have rough or unpaved roads. Vehicles in Rwanda may experience moderate wear and tear, but the overall road conditions generally lead to lower maintenance costs compared to more challenging terrains.
- Kenya: Kenya’s road conditions vary widely. While major highways and roads in tourist areas are generally well-maintained, many rural roads, especially those leading to remote safari parks, can be rough and challenging. This can result in higher maintenance costs for rental vehicles, contributing to the overall cost of hiring a car.
- Driver Costs and Additional Services
If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can hire a vehicle with a driver in both Rwanda and Kenya. The cost of hiring a driver can vary significantly.
- Rwanda: In Rwanda, hiring a driver typically costs an additional $50 to $60 per day. Drivers are usually familiar with local routes and can provide useful insights into the areas you visit. Some car hire companies include the cost of the driver in the overall rental price for longer-term rentals.
- Kenya: In Kenya, the cost of hiring a driver range from $60 to $80 per day. Experienced drivers, especially those familiar with safari routes, are in high demand. The higher cost reflects the increased expertise and demand for drivers in Kenya’s more popular tourist regions.
- Cross-Border Rentals
If your travel plans involve crossing borders between Rwanda and Kenya, additional costs and considerations come into play.
- Rwanda: Cross-border rentals from Rwanda to Kenya are possible but usually involve extra fees and paperwork. These additional charges can range from $50 to $100, depending on the rental company and vehicle type. Ensuring that all required permits and insurance are in place is essential for a smooth cross-border experience.
- Kenya: Similarly, renting a car in Kenya for cross-border travel to Rwanda involves extra costs, which can be higher due to stricter regulations and the increased demand for cross-border rentals. Additional fees and documentation requirements can range from $50 to $200.
- Campsite and Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs, particularly at campsites, can also impact the overall budget for a self-drive trip.
- Rwanda: Rwanda offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including campsites near major national parks. Campsite fees typically range from $20 to $40 per night, making it relatively affordable for self-drive travellers.
- Kenya: In Kenya, campsite fees can be higher, especially within or near popular parks like Maasai Mara or Amboseli. Prices typically range from $20 to $50 per night, contributing to a higher overall cost for self-drive trips.
- Tourism Infrastructure and Accessibility
The level of tourism infrastructure and accessibility of destinations can also affect car hire costs.
- Rwanda: Rwanda’s tourism infrastructure is developing, with increasing investments in roads and accommodations. While this means fewer luxury options, it also translates to less commercialized experiences and potentially lower costs. The more focused and less crowded nature of Rwandan parks can result in a more budget-friendly experience.
- Kenya: Kenya has a well-established tourism infrastructure, with extensive facilities and services in major tourist areas. The higher level of commercialization and infrastructure development can contribute to higher costs, including car hire.
Conclusion
While car hire costs in Rwanda and Kenya share similarities, the differences in road conditions, vehicle availability, and insurance options can impact the overall rental experience. Rwanda tends to offer slightly more affordable rates, with the added benefit of well-maintained roads.
Ultimately, the decision between hiring a car in Rwanda or Kenya will depend on your travel preferences, budget, and the experiences you wish to have. Both countries offer unique opportunities for adventure and exploration, and understanding the cost differences will help you plan a more informed and enjoyable trip.
Read MoreBudgeting for a Gorilla Safari
Budgeting for your gorilla trek in Rwanda or Uganda and DR Congo appropriately guarantees you total satisfaction on gorilla safari. Gorilla trekking is one of the most sought-after adventures in Africa and prior considering taking part in this life changing experience, you must budget right for it. There is a long list of things anyone interested in participating in gorilla trekking should be put together.
In this article, we have come up with several things you should be put together when budgeting for your gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. We also offer variety of gorilla trekking safari packages that suit every visitors’ budget.
Budget for gorilla trekking permit in Uganda, Rwanda and DRC
When planning or budgeting for your gorilla trek, first, you must consider a gorilla trekking permit. It is an essential tool you must have if you are to engage in a gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. A Uganda gorilla trekking permit costs US$800 for foreign non-residents, US$700 foreign residents and UGX 300000 for East African Community citizens. Visitors who may want to have more time with mountain gorillas, there is gorilla habituation experience offering you a sum of 4 hours face to face with these great apes. Permits for gorilla habituation are issued at US$1500 per person.
Rwanda, which is one of the three mountain gorilla trekking destinations in Africa issues out her gorilla permits at US$1500. The DR Congo which offers both mountain gorilla and Eastern lowland gorilla trek experiences, sells gorilla permits at US$450. You can have your gorilla trek tour and permits booked by our reservation team.
Budget for gorilla safari lodge/accommodation
Accommodation is essential to budget for if you are to have a complete gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda or DRC. All the four mountain gorilla watching destinations (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Virunga National Park and Volcanoes National Park) have accommodation options ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury. You choose the best based on your wallet size. When booking for you accommodation facility for overnight stay, we make sure we find one that is near your gorilla trekking region.
Budget for transportation to and from the gorilla trekking destination
All gorilla safari parks are situated far away from city centres. This requires you to have appropriate means to connect to your preferred gorilla trekking park to enjoy your gorilla trek. The best way to reach the Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking is by hiring a 4×4 safari vehicle. The price for tour vehicles varies from company to company but our fleet of rental cars come at affordable rates whether you need a Safari Land Cruiser, Coaster for large groups, Safari Vans, Rav4 or Super Custom.
Alternatively, you may take flight services especially for travelers planning to visit Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. There are existing flight services for you to connect from Kajjansi airfield or Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip.
Budget for other activities in addition to gorilla trekking
Uganda, Rwanda and DRC have a lot more to offer the world besides trekking to see mountain gorillas. There are several other activities to explore within the same gorilla safari parks or other national parks. You can add chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat cruise, bird watching, cultural safaris, nature walks, hiking adventures on your budget for gorilla trek.
Budget for your packing list for gorilla trekking
For any plans to go on a gorilla trek, there is a long list of essential items you must have to have a successful gorilla experience. They include a good camera with no flashlight, hiking boots-waterproof, snacks, rain coat/jacket/poncho, gardening gloves, long-sleeved shirt, hat, sunscreen, first aid kit, gorilla permit, toiletries, sweaters, binoculars, insect repellents, trousers, socks and many others.
Read MoreHow to Save Big on Your Rwanda Safari
Saving money on a safari is one of the most challenging things most travelers often encounter. The cost of your Rwanda safari starts right from the moment you think about departing your home country till you fly back home after appreciating what Rwanda has to offer the world when it comes to nature. Yes, there is plenty to explore in the spectacular Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills but often, it comes at a cost to get there.
Rwanda positioned itself as a luxury safari destination with gorilla permits costing US$1500 per person. Despite this factor, there are several opportunities for travelers to save big on their Rwanda safaris. Here are some of the incredible tips on how to save big on your Rwanda safari.
Choose affordable destination to visit in Rwanda
When you talk about Rwanda safaris, the world has been to believe as if there is only one place to visit that is Volcanoes National Park which is visited for gorilla trekking tours. The fact is Rwanda has many other unique destinations to be visited and if you can’t do gorilla trek, you can combined it with visit to Uganda. Other than Volcanoes NP, the other available travel destination options in Rwanda include Nyungwe Forest National Park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park –the excellent destinations for you to get up close with chimpanzees and many other primates.
Akagera National Park is such an incredible savanna park that is also worth visiting on Rwanda safaris. This is the only place in Rwanda where you can see the big 5 game species in a single habitat. Away from wildlife parks, tourists can also go for Kigali city tour to explore different historical sites including genocide memorial centers like Kigali memorial site.
Consider visiting Rwanda during the low/off season
Rwanda is an open destination to travelers all year round. While the dry season also most referred to as the peak season is the most desired period of the year to enjoy Rwanda safaris, it is possible to also visit the country during the wet or off season. It is during the off season/months when most accommodation cut down on their rates thus giving you opportunity to stay in a classic lodge at a price within your wallet size. On your travel calendar, the wet or off months of the year to consider are March, April, May and October, till November.
The dry season is most desired due to its favorable weather conditions, especially if you plan to go gorilla trekking, mountain climbing/volcano hiking. The disadvantage though is that it is a peak season and the demand for accommodation plus even gorilla permits/chimpanzee permits is high.
Book budget-friendly accommodation
Yes, Rwanda is a luxury destination, but do you know that there are also plenty of budget or midrange accommodation options to choose from? On Rwanda safari, visitors don’t book only luxury safari lodges, but also other available options. Every park or destination in Rwanda has budget-friendly lodges for instance Volcanoes National Park consists of comfortable lodges like Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, La Palme Hotel, Kinigi Guesthouse, Le Bambou Lodge, and others.
Contact the local tour operator
Planning a safari by yourself is possible but comes at a challenge, especially when it comes to finding affordable accommodation. This is why we recommend that you deal directly with the tour operator on the ground. The local tour operators have vast knowledge on the different tourism products and their rates.
Go for the activities that you can afford
On a Rwanda safari, there is more than gorilla trekking to be done. If you can’t afford a gorilla permit to track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes NP, there are also other options including volcano hiking, Dian Fossey tomb hike, cultural visits, chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey tracking, game drives, boat cruise, city tours, and many more.
Travel as a group
You can also save big on your Rwanda safari by traveling in a group. Group travel helps you share costs on a trip, especially on the car rental/transportation in Rwanda from your hotel to destinations. Sharing the trip cost is one of the best ways many travelers have managed to save much on their safaris not only to Rwanda but also in Uganda.
Read MoreHow to Organize a Gorilla trek in Rwanda?
Gorillas are the biggest attraction for tourist travelling to Rwanda. It is a big experience watching the mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
In the dense jungles covering the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, located in central and East Africa, you we find the critically endangered mountain gorilla.
The exhilarating trek, in which you follow in the footsteps of the gorilla, the largest living primate on earth, starts in the foothills of the Virungas with stunning views in all directions
Upon entering the national park, the paths are littered with fresh spoor of the elusive buffalo and elephant, and trekkers will be immersed in the mysterious intimacy of the rain forest, alive with colorful birds and butterflies. Through gaps in the canopy, the magnificent Virunga peaks, among the highest in Africa yet easily accessible, are glimpsed in the distance.
Weaving through the forest the experienced trackers will soon bring you up close with a family of gorillas.
Once you have found them, you will stay observing them for one magical hour as they go about their daily life, feeding, playing, resting and raising their young. Coming face to face with a giant silverback must truly be one of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth!
From Rwanda’s capital city Kigali you would need to travel by bus to Ruhengeri, North of Rwanda, for about two hours. From there, gorilla permits can be arranged or alternatively acquire one from the conservation office at Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
However, only approximately 56 gorilla permits are released per day, so you would be better booking in advance.
Charges for foreign non residents have increased to US$1500. For the whole of this year, Africans visiting Rwanda for gorilla trekking are charged US$500 instead of US$1500 to trek the gorillas.
Most of the funds collected go towards the conservation of the gorillas and the preservation of their environment. You also need to pay a driver which is approximately $100 per day.
With the help of guides, this trek will allow you to get up close to these fascinating shy creatures and experience the magic of an encounter with one of our closest relatives.
Depending on your arrangements with the tour companies, you’ll be staying in comfortable accommodation on this three day tour and will also experience the life in rural areas of Rwanda, and highlights on Rwanda’s conservation policies among others.
To protect the gorillas from excessive disturbance the number of permits granted to see them is strictly limited, so if you would like to go on this tour please enquire sooner rather than later.
Rwanda’s gorilla conservation efforts have realized significant achievements. Currently, there are ten gorilla- groups which accommodate up to eight tourists each per day, a number that has almost doubled over the last five years.
Read MoreBooking a Gorilla Safari at Low Price!
There are many ways of encountering Mountain Gorillas at the cheapest means possible. Mountain Gorilla safaris are done in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. National Parks hosting Mountain Gorillas include:
- Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
- Virunga National Park – Democratic Republic of Congo
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Uganda
In this article, let us asses the possible ways of going on a low priced gorilla safari in Uganda, Rwanda or DR Congo. What makes a cheap trip depends on the distance, the cost of gorilla permit, the price of accommodation, fair quotations from different tour operators among others.
Currently, Rwanda gorilla permit cost US$1500, Uganda at US$700 while DRC cost US$400 so, travelers at low budget can wisely choose Gorilla trekking in Democratic Republic of Congo to save big.
- Self-driving is another way of cutting the prices. Here, you just need to hire a car and then drive to the gorilla park. Self – drive saves driver cost.
- Book budget accommodation in case your budget is low. Budget accommodation charges pocket friendly prices compared to Mid-range and Luxury accommodation.
- Book a short trip – 1 day Gorilla tour in Rwanda, Uganda or DRC is ideal. Short trip saves the travelers from high cost of accommodation, car charges and so on.
- Travel in low season – low season results into low travelers turn up. During this period, accommodation cut off prices, tour operators offer pocket friendly prices and so on.
- Visit multiple parks – Rwanda offers discounted gorilla permits for travelers who visit more than one National Park and spend at least 2 nights in each park. While in Rwanda, target to visit Volcanoes National Park (Home of mountain Gorillas), add on a visit to Nyungwe National Park or Akagera National Park.
- Join scheduled gorilla tours – Some tour companies set scheduled gorilla trip for groups and once you confirm your slot, you are entitled to a cheap gorilla safari.
- Get other people to join – they can be relatives or friend to share transport cost and accommodation thus reducing safari costs.
- Trek Gorillas in Democratic Republic of Congo – DRC is the cheapest destination as far as gorilla trekking is concerned. Currently, the cost of Gorilla permit in DRC is US$400 compared to that of Rwanda at US$1500 and Uganda at US$700.
- Use public transport to reach the gorilla parks – public transport seems to be cheaper than customized private transport. You just need to buy a gorilla permit and then use public transport to reach the gorilla park – trek Gorillas and leave the park.
Gorilla trekking is a life time event which every one should enjoy before death however; some people argue that the cost of gorilla permit is too high.
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Guide To Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda
Camouflaged among the heavily forested and misty mountains of Rwanda, are the World’s most endangered Great Apes, threatened by habitat loss and other human factors. Mountain gorillas are one of the World’s most successful conservation stories and are so far the only primate species in the world with growing numbers, and Rwanda’s blossoming tourism industry has been centered on gorillas.
Coming face to face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an extraordinary opportunity and one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters you will ever experience in a lifetime. It is undeniably beautiful but also not an easy feat with several hours of maneuvering your way through the dense, muddy, and slippery African jungles but the moment you are already there to watch baby gorillas breastfeeding or playing, juveniles hanging on trees, and silverbacks sizing up, your life will never be the same again.
Interesting and emotional are the two main words used to describe the rare encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
Where to trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda
With more than half the World’s 1063 remaining mountain gorillas occupying the mountain slopes of Virunga Volcanoes of East and Central Africa-Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, about 35% of them are in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This Conservation Area is situated within the north-western corner of the country and has about 12 habituated gorilla groups. The number of visitors in each gorilla group is strictly limited to 8 persons; hence only 96 gorilla permits are available each day.
The Gorilla Groups in Volcanoes National Park include Karisimbi (Susa B), Susa A, Sabyinyo, Hirwa, Kwitonda, Agashya (Group 13), Umubano, Ugenda, Amahoro, Bwenge, Titus, and Pablo.
What to expect during gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Typical gorilla trekking adventures in Rwanda begin early in the morning by assembling at Kinigi Headquarters in Volcanoes National Park by 7:00 am. This is done for registration and briefing from one of the Park rangers. Embark on the search for the allocated gorilla group, at about 8:30 am and take about 1-6 hours. Trekkers are required to return back to the Lodge by evening.
The duration and difficulty of trekking, personal interests as well as your level of physical fitness are some of the important factors in determining what gorilla group you will trek to. You don’t have to be a weight lifter or gym addict and super fit for gorilla trekking but instead, you need a reasonable level of fitness. The team of professional guides, armed rangers, and trackers will take you through the hiking trails in search of the allocated gorilla group. The forest trails can be muddy and slippery even during the drier months and sometimes humid under the forest canopy.
When you finally meet the mountain gorillas, you will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of spending up to one hour quietly observing and taking photographs in their natural habitat. Keep a few meters away from the gorillas as they go about their daily routine-interacting with one another, munching, resting, and grooming under the watchful gaze of huge silverbacks. Talk in low voices while watching the gorillas and sudden loud movements should be avoided.
Excitement is inevitable but try as much as possible to express it quietly. Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas and avoid touching them under any circumstances. Much as they have been habituated to be accustomed to human presence, they are still wild animals. It is therefore important to keep in mind the guidelines issued by your guides during the briefing and while interacting with gorillas.
Rwanda Gorilla Permits
Trekking Rwanda Gorillas is strictly managed to protect the endangered Great Apes within their natural habitats as well as increasing their chances of blossoming. A permit is, therefore, a requirement for trekking gorillas within Volcanoes National Park. There are presently only 12 habituated gorilla groups open for trekking and only 8 visitors can visit each of them. This means permits are limited to only 96 each day.
These gorilla permits presently go for $1500 per person per trek (as of August 2021) and include Park entrance fees, expert trackers, armed rangers, and guides. This price doesn’t include hiring porters and tipping.
Age restrictions of Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Trekkers of Rwanda gorillas have to be at least 15 years of age because of safety reasons. This also applies to gorilla safaris in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Important Things to pack for a Gorilla Trek in Rwanda
Enough preparation is an important factor to achieving an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda although overpacking is also disastrous. Our recommended packing list for gorilla trekking in Rwanda should include light and breathable safari pants, strong waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, warm clothing (sweater) for cold mornings and nights, gardening gloves, toiletries (bite relief cream, toothbrush, sun cream, toothpaste, lip balm, deodorants, and many others), a small backpack for carrying extra clothes, jacket, camera, drinking water, binoculars, snacks, and lunch box), reusable water bottle, a wide-brimmed hat, snacks, good non-flash camera with extra batteries and lenses, Multi-purpose travel adaptor, pair of binoculars, first aid kit and insect repellant.
Best Time to Track Gorillas in Rwanda
Mountain gorillas in Rwanda are trekked all year round yet the best time is usually during the dry season from June to September when the forest is less muddy and slippery much as it is also important to expect rains any time of the year.
The Months of April and May are always the wettest hence hiking trails tend to be muddy. Nonetheless, gorilla treks can still go on even during the rainy months, and treks are easier since gorillas usually climb higher up the mountains during the dry months and descend during the wet months. Wet months also offer the most beautiful backdrops and conditions for photography in Rwanda.
Places to stay when trekking Rwanda Gorillas
As far as trekking Rwanda Gorillas is concerned, we advise staying near Volcanoes National Park for easy connectivity to the Park Headquarters. Therefore, our selection for the best places to stay while trekking Rwanda Gorillas include Virunga Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, Muhabura Hotel, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, Kinigi Guesthouse, Bisate Lodge, Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge, and many others.
How to Reach Volcanoes National Park
Flights are the main way to reach Rwanda via Kigali International Airport. On getting cleared with immigration at the Airport, you will be met by a representative of the Tour and Travel Company your gorilla safari was booked with. In this case, our professional safari driver will meet and drive to your place of stay. We advise that you spend a night/s within the City on the first day of your trip but if you arrive earlier, you can make your way straight to Volcanoes National Park. This amazing safari destination is only 65 miles from the Capital City and about 2-3 hours’ drive from the Airport.
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Rent a Car with Rooftop Tent in Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the best destinations in Africa offering ultimate big five game experience, mountain gorilla encounter and other primate safaris. It is perfectly explored while on a self-drive or driver guided safaris using car rental Rwanda. Rental cars in Rwanda are available at affordable rates and they can be rented in most locations in and around Kigali capital city.
Self-drive tours in Rwanda provide the most flexible road trip experience compared to other safaris. A visitor becomes in charge of his or her road trip. With wide range of self-drive rental cars, a visit to Rwanda for a self-drive tour never leaves you disappointed.
Toyota Rav4 SUV
If you are in need of a cheap Suv to rent in Rwanda on a short or long-term hire then booking our 4×4 Toyota Rav4 should be a must-do. The features that come with Rav4 Suv range from FM radio, air conditioner, powerful steering, 3-5 doors with capacity range of 2-4pax. This Suv rental is compact in size and ideal for self-drive tours, city tours, conference/business trips, camping and others.
Landcruiser
We have a range of Toyota Landcruiser rentals each offering ultimate Rwanda road trip experience to holidaymakers. You can book Toyota Landcruiser TX, Landcruiser TZ, Landcruiser VX each fitted with FM radio, MPS/CD player, adequate space, powerful engine and visitors can enjoy unlimited mileage.
Mini Van rental
Book Mini Van hire and you won’t return home disappointed. This is perfect for a little large group since it carries up to 7-14pax and best if you are headed for long-term projects.
Landcruiser V8 rooftop tent
Enjoy the best of Rwanda self-drive in a comfortable Toyota Landcruiser V8 rental. This is fitted with camping gear, 5 seater, air conditioner, diesel engine and you stand a great chance to enjoy unlimited mileage. You can also opt for Landcruiser with double rooftop tent suitable for all your camping or self-drive trips.
Read More10 Birding Tips for Beginners
Would you like to go bird watching? Here are some tips for beginners:
1. Come out Early: The “early bird” catches the greater amount of birds in their natural habitat. If you are really keen on sighting and observing the maximum number of birds that Africa has to offer, you should ideally start early in the morning, that’s when they are the busiest.
2. No dazzling clothes: You don’t want to give away your location and you certainly don’t want to distract the birds that you are going to observe. Brightly colored apparels are easily noticeable when amidst bushes and remember, birds have a finer eyesight than humans…this means they can spot you very easily, especially if you are lit like a halogen bulb in the middle of the runway at night.
3. Shush: Don’t make a noise or you will scare away the poor birds. No loud chatter when you are watching birds…if you have to communicate with the others, make sure you speak in muted volumes.
4. Stick to the trail: Your guide will help you get situated at the right spots where you can observe birds without worrying them by getting too close. If you stray from the trail and the group, chances are that you will have poorer luck than them in finding some particular and more exotic birds….
5. Grab a good field guide: Make sure you can tell your Grebe from petrels…you can manage that only once you familiarize yourself with the birds of Africa, and studying a good field guide beforehand is a genius move.
6. Take notes and make sketches: Even before you brush up your skills with the field guide, make sure to keep an eye on details, crest, beak, coloring, markings…these will help not only to tally and compare notes with the rest of the gang, but also enhance your skills as a birdwatcher.
7. Focus: If you don’t focus while you are observing the birds, there are chances that while you look down into your journal for notes, the bird has given you the miss and flown away…
8. Use telescopes for long range: This is especially for the high profile birdwatchers, and for birds that are very cautious and refuse to come anywhere within a mile of human territories.
9. Learn up the different bird calls: This way, even if you can’t see the bird, you can identify it by way of its call and spot it sooner or later if you can just identify the source of the call.
10. Get a good binocular: The most important factor. You need a good pair of binoculars so that you can make the best of the bird watching opportunities.
It naturally follows that you need to know about binoculars so that you can make a correct and favorable choice…
Read MoreHow to Find Good Rental Cars in Rwanda
Are you planning for a family holiday, business meeting or self drive in Rwanda? You will need a car rental to give the freedom and independence you want while traveling. However there are important factors you have to put into considerations to rent a car in Rwanda. One thing you should know that car rentals are not the same in the way they offer their services that is they have different fleets of cars, charge different prices and have different terms and conditions on their cars for hire in Rwanda.
The first important aspect to put into consideration is to choose your car wisely. Car rentals offer a fleet of cars to their customers from small vehicles to SUVs and also large passenger cars. It is good to choose a car that perfectly suits your needs and the nature of your travel. If you are only two people willing to hire a car then you should choose a compact car since you will one be with a few luggage that can fit in the car and it will also offer you affordable solutions and if you are taking a safari tour you will need an SUVs because on a safari trip you are more likely to find rough and slippery roads and also you may need to carry large luggage like camping tools.
Choose a car from a reputable car hire company in Rwanda. This will give reliable and best services of car rentals since they have enough knowledge and experience in the business and this can give a peace of mind of not worrying about the airport transfers, safari tour drive and also any city tour or business tour as you know everything in line of transportation is handled with experienced and professional personnel. You can find the company’s reputation by looking at the customer reviews about it online.
Find out what items are included in the price quotation before making a firm booking with the car rental company. You have to know that there companies that offer flat pricing with intention of attracting customers but in the end the clients pay highly due to the extra charges that may not be indicated in the general quotation like local taxes, early return fees, toll both fees to mention but a few.
Ensure you contact the car rental company directly through a phone call or email. Make your intention of wanting to book with them. This will build a good rapport between you and the company and at the end of it, there might be room for negotiation of the prices charged and you may get a discount out of it.
Try to know the insurance policy the car rental is covered with. A good car rental must have a comprehensive insurance that covers all the damages and even theft of the car. They should have road assistance in case of car breakdown that can immediately attend to you.
Find a company that has the easiest/convenient mode of payment for the car rental in Rwanda. The car rental should have various means of payment like paying by cash or credit card or visa card system. This makes your payment as easy as you choose from any mode of payment that is best suitable for you.
When you take the above tips into account you are likely to find the best car rental in Rwanda.
Read MoreRwanda Gorilla Trekking: Tips for An Unforgettable Experience
Just like putting yummy food in the mouth, gorilla tracking is one of the safari activities that is not isolated or missed by tourists when they are having a safari of their lifetime as this activity can’t be missed in menu of the various activities they want to explore which will bring you closer to related human beings. Some of the Gorillas families that are tracked include the following: Susa made up of 41 gorillas, Sabyingo, Amahoro etc. Just like in other countries like Uganda, where gorilla tracking is done in Bwindi impenetrable national park and in DRC, it is done in Virunga national park. For Rwanda, it is done in volcanoes national park which is located in the northwest of Rwanda considered to be the only national park where gorilla trekking can be done. Primate tracking in Rwanda is done by various touring companies as the packages for this tracking ranges from 2 day gorilla trekking Rwanda to 12 day trekking Rwanda which gives a wide variety of Gorilla groups to be trekked.
More so, to even start trekking these so called primates in volcanoes national park, a tourism permit must be issued by the body concerned with tourism called Rwanda tourism board. This gives license to the tourists of which type of gorillas to be trekked at that moment. Permits for Rwanda Gorilla Trekking goes for around US$750 per day of which some bid of the money goes to the communities around the national park for development and well being of people around it. A primate tracking is most suitable in the dry months of June to September and also December, January and February making this activity easier than ever before as you will see below.
Although Gorilla tracking in volcanoes national park starts from 20 minutes to three quarters of the day in the evening, their some requirements that are needed to do this activity as tourists will go through a couple of challenges like rain, muddy soil, insects e.g. aunts which needs some bid of wearing strong shoes etc. These are some of the requirements needed to trek this amazing Gorillas are as follows.
Tip number one is dressing according to the Safari activity. Wear shirts made of synthetic material which tend to dry faster. This is due to the fact that in most cases, this activity may be done in the rainy season which needs some bid of drying faster to make the tourist more comfortable. Their after you are advised at the bottom to wear long pants made of synthetic material which also tends to dry faster than other type of clothes making the Safari more sweet and affordable to do . The other clothes like short jeans will make the activity more difficult to do as they will make the tourist uncomfortable and unable to walk properly.
Wear proper foot wear(boots) that is reaches above the ankle, this is because while moving though this good scenery of tropical forests, there will be thorns, sticky plants that may endanger the lives of the tourists most especially the legs. This will help you to move though the muddy soils, dangerous insects like the aunts that are of a danger to the lives of the human beings. On top of that, wear gators over those boots so that you can cover the remaining space which might be used to enter other staff like water making the tourist unreliable to do. On top of that wear high rubber willies with treads on the boots.
Pack enough food and water before you come for this activity as it mostly takes you a long period of time from morning to the evening hours during the dry months of June to September. This may be in form of snacks, a bottle of water most especially a liter is enough for the all day and it is advisable for one to bring these items along with him or herself after all some companies do provide some food to the tourists before proceeding to national park. When you have reached the park in side, you are not allowed to give any food to these gorillas which might endanger the life span of these primates.
Speak about your trekking preferences meaning that you as the tourist will have to communicate to specific company you had booked with to inform them about your fitness level and other diseases you may be facing plus also what type of Gorilla you might want to see first. This enables the guide to assign you to a group that is in with your range which you can afford to do as some of tracking groups may even track within or just outside the national park.
Making sure that video camera is working in good conditions and already for use. The first thing is to put in mind is that light from camera shouldn’t be there as long as it does not disturb the movements of the so called primates. These photographs which are made tend to be of a dark exposure because of the so many trees that are situated in the park more so a camera should be kept in a water proof bag so that water does not disturb its settings
Go for Gorilla tracking activity in a dry season is other tip for gorilla tracking meaning that the best months for Gorilla tracking are from June to September and also from December, January and February as these months tend to be dry because in the dry periods, movements of people within the park is much easier than ever before plus also cars are able to move in those roads drive safely. And that is why tourists are advised to come in the dry months although; they can also come in any period of the year. The wet months include the following march, April, May etc.
Practice Gorilla etiquette meaning that you should start and learn to respect the environment of these primates such as their behavior and knowing that you a visitor to them. Don’t be afraid to these primates as they are close friendly to the human beings. More so if they approach you, don’t just run for hide out as they think that you have stolen something from them which marks in the end of the tips for gorilla treks in Rwanda.
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