Language
Rwanda's official languages are English, Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili and French.
Rwanda’s Climate
Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate, with lower temperatures typical for equatorial countries due to its high elevation. Kigali (1,567m), in the centre of the country, has a typical daily temperature range between 12 °C and 27 °C, with little variation through the year. There are two rainy seasons, but periods of rain vary across the country and from year to year. The driest moths are from June to September.
To learn more visit Meteo Rwanda or click here.
Telecommunications
Rwanda's mobile phone network is excellent and covers most of the country. International calls can be made easily. Rwanda has two telecom providers:
Telecom providers also provide internet via GPRS, 3G and 4G. SIM cards are widely available.
Every SIM card user/buyer in Rwanda is required by law to be registered prior to activation. SIM cards can be registered at point of purchase and passport/travel documents and accommodation details are required.
The country is among the top three African countries for internet connectivity, with an ever-growing fibre optic network.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). One US Dollar approximates 1,000 Rwandan francs. Credit and debit cards, such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa, are widely accepted in Rwanda. ATMs are frequently available. Central bank rates can be found on the National Bank of Rwanda website.
Bureau de Change branches (Forex Bureau) are at the airport and across Kigali.
Most internationally-recognized currencies and travelers’ cheques can be exchanged at commercial banks, hotels and international airports.
Local time
Time in Rwanda is GMT+2.
Electricity supply and voltage
Electricity supply in Rwanda is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz and is alternating current (AC). Sockets have 13-amp breakers. Plug types C and J are used (see below).
