Health
Malaria is endemic to this region. As there are many choices, consult your family physician or local health clinic for the right one for you. International certificate of vaccination for Yellow Fever is mandatory. Please consult your local travel clinic as they may recommend other vaccines.

Currency
Local currency is Rwandan Franc, however, US cash (2001 or new bills in good condition) are readily accepted. ATM's are not readily available and major credit cards are only accepted in major hotels.

Electricity
Electric Power is 230V and plugs are round pins. In some lodges they do run on solar power and although your room will have lights, hairdryers are not available. Cameras can be charged, however, you will have to have an adaptor.

Climate
Because of the high altitude of the country, Rwanda has a pleasant tropical highland climate, with a daily temperature range as great as 14°C (25°F). Temperature vary considerably from region to region because of the variations in altitude. The average daytime temperature is about 30°C except in the highlands where it is much cooler. There are four seasons; long rains from mid March to mid May, short rains from mid-October to mid-December; long dry period from mid-May to mid-October and short dry season from mid-December to mid-March. The north-east has more rainfall than other parts of the country.

Time Zones
Rwanda is + 2hrs GMT

Tipping
In the cities, 10% in restaurants is standard. At lodges/camps there is a general staff tip and the recommended amount is USD 5.00 per day, per person. Driver/guides USD 5.00-10.00 per person, per day and tipping is done at the end of your trip. On your Gorilla trek, USD10.00 per person is recommended for the Head Ranger. Hotel/lodge baggage porters - $1 to $2 per client per stay. Forest walks - $5 per person.

What to Pack for your Gorilla Trek
Fleece or light wool sweater, lightweight waterproof hooded poncho, long-sleeved shirt, good waterproof walking/hiking boots (comfortable for going up and down steep hills), sturdy trousers, sunglasses, flashlight, camera equipment, including spare batteries, sun block, a sun hat, gloves to grip vegetation (inexpensive gardening gloves work well) and a small waterproof backpack to carry water and a packed lunch. It is best to have layers of clothing as temperatures tend to change. The guides will provide you with a walking stick.

Food and Water
Food in the camps is hearty wholesome home-style meals. Please advise at time of booking if you have any dietary needs. Drink only bottled water, which is readily available.

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 This web page last updated: Thursday, August 14, 2008