Road trips from Kigali
Where to drive from Kigali
Rwanda's best known sights are an easy self drive from the capital. Rent a car from a local host in Kigali and go at your own pace. Drive times below are approximate, on a good road without long stops.
Destinations
Classic drives from Kigali
Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
About 2.5 hours to Musanze
Gorilla trekking from Musanze, about 2.5 hours from Kigali.
Kigali to Akagera National Park
About 2.5 hours to the southern entrance
Self drive safari, about 2.5 hours east of Kigali.
Kigali to Lake Kivu (Rubavu)
About 2.25 hours
Lakeside weekend in Rubavu (Gisenyi), about 2.25 hours away.
Kigali to Nyungwe National Park
3.5 to 5 hours, depending on where in the park
Rainforest in the southwest, 3.5 to 5 hours from Kigali.
FAQ
Road trip questions
Do I need an SUV for a road trip in Rwanda?
It depends on where you go. The road to Rubavu on Lake Kivu is paved, so any car is fine. For Akagera a 4x4 or SUV is strongly advised, and for the Volcanoes National Park trailheads an SUV or high clearance car is recommended.
Where do I pick up the car?
From the host at their location in Kigali. Vumvum rentals are self drive, with no delivery or driver option.
When should I avoid driving?
On Umuganda, the last Saturday of each month, roughly 7 to 11 am, most services close and driving is restricted. Plan to set off after it ends.
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