This page contains essential information and tips related to your travel and stay in the Republic of Rwanda (or Repubulika y’u Rwanda). If you are looking for information about the conference venue and accommodation options, click here
Entry Requirements
Visa Requirements
Attendees from African countries DO NOT require a visa to enter the Republic of Rwanda and will be granted permission for between 30-90 days stay.
Nationals from all other countries can obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival at all border points without prior application.
While visas are available on arrival, travelers can also apply online via the Rwanda Immigration website if desired. Click this Link to start your application process.
If you indicate that you need a visa on the event registration form, we will send you a form to request additional details and then provide an invitation letter to facilitate your visa application process.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
- A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is not required for travelers coming from non-endemic countries and without an active transmission outbreak.
- A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers coming from the following countries (current as of February 2026):
Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.
Flying Tips
We recommend booking flights which arrive on or before August 17.
Some airlines will not allow you to board your flight to Rwanda unless you have a return or onward ticket which they can verify. Ensure that you bring all relevant documentation related to your onward journey, especially if you depart via a different airline.
There will be an AfPIF team at the airport to welcome you with an AfPIF sign on August 16, 17, and 18 (until 2PM on the 18th).
Avoid taking services from unknown individuals at the airport that insist on helping you carry your luggage or perform other tasks.
On the Ground
Payments
Most major credit cards are accepted by hotels and restaurants.
We recommend carrying some local currency (Rwandan Franc) for local transport, occasional purchases, and in case electronic payments systems are down.
Currency exchange services are available in the airport and around the city. ATMs are also available for cash withdrawals.
Telecommunications
Roaming voice and data is available for a variety of mobile networks.
You can also buy a local SIM card for voice and data at the Kigali airport and throughout the city. Identification is required for purchase.
Wireless Internet is widely available at cafes, hotels, and other locations, though there is no guarantee that it will be working at the airport.
Transportation
Ride-hailing apps are available including Yego (motorcycles & cars), Move, Rapide Taxi, Bolt, Little Ride, and Green Ride Africa. Informal taxis are also available at the airport and throughout the city.
Traffic in Kigali is minimal even during peak hours.
Security
Rwanda is generally safe. However, we recommend that you remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Stay informed of local travel advisories and take precautions where necessary. Consider carrying a photocopy of your identification documents instead of the originals.
Climate
August is the dry season when average temperatures range between 12°C (54°F) and 27°C (81°F) with high humidity. It is considered a premier time for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Health
Malaria is a risk. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
Please consult your doctor to discuss vaccination, preventative Malaria medication, or if you have any other health issues before visiting Rwanda.
Malaria can take weeks to manifest. If you suspect that you have contracted Malaria, please seek medical attention.
Malaria treatments are available at pharmacies in Kigali in case you wish to leave Rwanda with an emergency supply.
There are no confirmed Ebola cases in Rwanda as of July 6, 2026 and we are unaware of any travel restrictions related to Rwanda at this time.
Power Sockets
Power sockets in Rwanda operate at 230V and 50Hz and primarily use Type C and J sockets. While Type C (two round pins) is standard, Type J (three round pins) is also used. We recommend bringing appropriate adapters.