ULTIMATE GUIDE TO KIGALI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Image from Kigali International Airport website

Overview

Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport is the primary gateway to the Country’s capital, Kigali, and plays a key role in serving not only domestic flights, but also a transit hub for regional destinations. Located in the suburb of Kanombe, the airport is only 3 miles away from the city center.

At an altitude of 4891 feet above sea level, Kigali International Airport is one of the highest international airports globally, and boasts an 11, 482 foot runway, big enough to accommodate an aircraft as large as a Boeing 747.

Kigali International Airport presents modern facilities which include duty-free shops, free WiFi, ATMs, and even a health center. Quality services and facilities ensure that travelers are assured of a smooth and comfortable experience as they navigate through its three terminals.

Before You Arrive

As you plan your travels to Rwanda, it is a good idea to be prepared, and knowing what to pack as well as a little more information about the airport, can offer you a smooth start to your trip. Here are some points to consider:

Travel Documents – It is important to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and that there is at least one blank page available for stamps.
Visas – Most visitors will require an entry visa, and this can be obtained upon arrival.
Medical Requirements – Visitors arriving into Rwanda from a yellow fever endemic country will require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Food and Liquid Restrictions – Before you arrive into Kigali and during your packing process, it is important to be aware of what foods or liquids are not permitted into Rwanda. While no specific food items are noted as banned, it is a good idea to avoid bringing in fresh fruits, vegetables and meats, with canned goods required to have a shelf-life of more than six months. Travelers should check liquid restrictions with their airline.
Money – Visitors should ensure they have access to funds during their trip, and arrive with a small amount of money, as there are ATMs and money exchange options available upon arrival in Kigali.
Location – Being aware of your arrival location is important too, as with the airport located around 3 miles from the city center, it is great to know that your first night’s stay is only a short drive away.

Upon Arrival

Once you land at Kigali International Airport, you will make your way into the airport’s main terminal, a two-story building where visitors will arrive off both international, regional and domestic flights. Once inside you will need to go through the following steps before meeting your transfer vehicle and guide, outside the airport’s Arrival hall:

Immigration – It is important to have your documents handy when you arrive, to present to the immigration officer on duty.
Customs – After immigration, you will walk through Customs and must be prepared to declare any items as required by the Rwandan customs regulations. Visitors should be ready to show proof of funds and your travel itinerary if requested.
Baggage Claim – Collect your luggage from the Baggage Claim area, and make your way outside, where your driver or guide will be waiting for you. .

Airport Facilities

Whether connecting to a regional flight or waiting to board an international flight, travelers will want to ensure their time spent at Kigali International Airport is a comfortable experience. This airport offers various amenities, which include complimentary Wi-Fi in the waiting area, mobile charging ports, as well as duty-free shops which will sell a mix of newspapers and magazines, some clothing and a selection of souvenirs.

The Airport offers travelers a chance to unwind with a cup of coffee or a bite to eat in one of the cafeterias, as well as comfortable general seating in the terminal. There are currency exchange kiosks and ATMs, and facilities for disabled passengers, including those requiring wheelchair assistance.

Security Information

Kigali International Airport maintains high safety standards, and has been ranked among the top ten best regional airports in Africa, notably for its fire and safety standards (2014). In 2017, Kigali Airport was ranked second in Africa for compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Good security measures are in place in Kigali International Airport, with attention to customer safety and wellbeing, an important factor. Friendly information staff are on hand to answer any questions travelers may have, with public notices and clear signage, a helpful mark to ensure a comfortable airport experience.

Transportation from the Airport

Several transportation options are available to travelers arriving into Kigali International Airport, both public and private. These include:

Taxis – Travelers can find taxis lined up outside the terminal building.
Shuttles – Some hotels offer a shuttle service to and from the airport, which can either be pre-booked or travelers can jump on board at the airport.
Buses – This public service will take visitors to a central bus depot in the city center.
Private Transfer – Travelers embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure or other safari experiences, may have pre-booked their transportation, with private vehicles taking them to their city hotels and out to one of Rwanda’s incredible national parks.
Car Rentals – Self-driving in Rwanda is an option for some travelers, with a handful of top car rental companies offering a fleet of vehicles either at the airport or a city depot.

Destinations Accessible from Kigali International Airport

Kigali International Airport serves as a gateway to a variety of safari destinations, unique experiences, and key attractions in Rwanda and its neighboring countries. These include:

Kigali City – The airport is located around 3 miles from the city center, where visitors can experience attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Kigali Convention Center.
Volcanoes National Park – Home to mountain gorillas and a 2-3 hour drive from Kigali.
Akagera National Park – This destination is known for its incredible wildlife safaris, and is located approximately 2.5 hours from Kigali.
Nyungwe National Park – This park is known for its chimpanzee trekking, and is a 5-6 hour drive from Kigali.
Democratic Republic of Congo (Eastern) – Kigali Airport serves as a transit stop for flights to Goma and Bukavu
Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya – Visitors to East Africa are able to combine a Tanzanian or Kenyan safari with a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda. Some visitors look to experience a gorilla trek in both Uganda and Rwanda.

Travel Tips By Locals

Information is key, no matter where you travel in the world, and having local insight into things such as how to dress appropriately, dining etiquette, and how to behave in public and in front of elders, can make a difference to your trip. While these apply to your time in Rwanda as a whole, these can be practiced and adhered to, from the moment you arrive into Kigali International Airport. Here are some words of advice, handy tips and fascinating facts local Rwandans have shared with us

Greetings – A handshake is the most common form of greeting someone in Rwanda. Hugs or kisses are usually reserved for close family or friends.
Handy Words and Phrases – Muraho (Hello) ; Mwaramutse (Good Morning) ; Mwiriwe (Good Afternoon or Good Evening) ; Amakuru (What is News) ; Bite Se? (How are things going?)
Etiquette – Elders are highly respected in Rwanda culture. When an older person enters the room, it is good manners to stand as a sign of respect ; Dressing modestly is important, particularly in rural areas and during visits to religious sites ; Sharing meals is common practice in Rwanda, so if you are invited into someone’s home, it is polite to eat what is served, using your right hand to pass items. It is customary to bring a small gift, usually of sweets; Always ask permission before taking photos and if invited to participate in a traditional ceremony or dance, it is respectful to accept.

Conclusion

Kigali International Airport is not just a transit point but a gateway to the diverse experiences Rwanda and its neighboring countries have to offer. From wildlife encounters to cultural experiences, the airport serves as the starting point for many memorable adventures in the heart of Africa.