Currency
The Rwandan franc (RWF) is the official currency. US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, tour operators, and many restaurants, but the franc is used for everyday purchases. Exchange bureaus in Kigali give reasonable rates. ATMs are plentiful in Kigali; less so outside the capital. If bringing cash dollars, bring bills printed after 2009 — older notes are often refused.
Language
Rwanda has three official languages: Kinyarwanda (spoken by virtually everyone), French, and English. In 2009 Rwanda switched from francophone to anglophone education, so younger Rwandans generally speak better English than French. In Kigali, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist businesses. In rural areas, Kinyarwanda is the norm.
Health
Malaria is present throughout Rwanda, though risk is lower at altitude. Take antimalarials, use repellent, and sleep under a mosquito net in lower areas. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow fever risk country; bring your certificate. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccinations are also recommended. Drink bottled or filtered water.
Safety
Rwanda is one of the safer countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Kigali is notably clean and orderly, and petty crime is lower than in comparable cities. The main practical risk is traffic — roads are good but driving is fast. Check current advice before any trip near the DRC border.
Phone and internet
Mobile coverage is good across most of the country. Local SIM cards (MTN or Airtel) are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or in Kigali. 4G is widely available in urban areas. Wi-Fi is available at most guesthouses and restaurants in Kigali.
Electricity
220V. Sockets are mostly European two-pin (Type C/E). UK and US visitors need an adapter.
Tipping
Not obligatory but appreciated. At restaurants, 10% is reasonable. Tip gorilla guides and trackers; they receive very little government support. At genocide memorials, donation boxes fund the sites' maintenance.
Umuganda
On the last Saturday of each month, from 8am to 11am, Rwanda holds a national community work day called Umuganda. Shops, businesses, and traffic come to a near-standstill. Plan transport accordingly and consider participating if you get the chance — many towns welcome visitors.