Are you deciding which Rwanda tour operator to employ while organizing your adventure to Rwanda? Even seasoned travelers can feel apprehensive when traveling abroad for the first time.
Every traveler would want to use the best tour company in Rwanda. These companies are located in Kigali, and Kampala Uganda.
To help you choose reputable Rwanda tour companies for your safari, we have compiled a list of important considerations.
These tour and travel companies in Rwanda can also act as gorilla trekking companies, chimpanzee trekking companies, Rwanda safari companies and more.
Top 10 Tour Companies in Rwanda
You may also refer to our most recommended list of tour companies in Rwanda below. These Top 10 tour companies in Rwanda are highly trusted, cost-sensitive and knowledgeable.
Among these are some tour operators in Kigali, Rwanda. However, whether they are located in Uganda or Rwanda, it doesn’t really matter. They’ll run your trip normally!
- Magical Gorilla Adventures
- Standard Safaris Ltd
- Gorilla Holidays (U) Ltd
- Amahoro Tours
- Volcanoes Safaris
- Thousand Hills Africa
- Gorilla Trek Africa
- African Gorilla Tours
- Discover Africa Safaris
- Gorilla Riddles Ltd
- Visit Rwanda Safari Tours
Before embarking on a safari to Rwanda, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and ensure that everything is well-planned.
One of the most important decisions you will make is selecting the ideal Rwanda safari company, which can help make your trip less stressful and more memorable.
However, choosing the best tour operator in Rwanda can be challenging. There are more than a hundred Rwanda travel operators, all competing for the title of the best.
While some Rwanda tour operators are registered, others are not.
Take your time to gather relevant information about the Rwanda tour agencies and, if possible, compare them before selecting a Rwanda tour operator for your safari in Rwanda.
Who Is a Tour Operator?
A tour operator is an individual or organization that plans vacations, researches potential destinations, and creates ideal travel itineraries.
Tour packages typically include accommodations, transportation, meals, guides, and other services.
The tour operator ensures that itineraries cater to the interests and requirements of the clients.
In addition, they either hire a Rwanda travel agency or market and advertise the packages directly to customers.
How Do You Pick a Reputable Rwanda Tour Company for a Trip?
The criteria below will help you pick the right Rwanda tour operator for your trip.
Website: Check if the business has an “About Us” page. Review their work, mission, and years of operation. Do they have offices abroad in different places or countries? By learning about the services they provide and the countries in which they operate, you can assess whether they can handle every aspect of your tour, especially if it involves activities in various countries. Such information may also give you insights into the professionalism of the safari tour operator.
Membership in Local Tour Associations: Prominent tour operators should be part of the tourism association in the country where they are registered. If a company belongs to a tour operator association, it is easier to file a complaint if necessary. However, membership does not always guarantee quality services. Some Rwanda safari firms, despite being officially recognized, may provide mediocre services, while others, not affiliated with any associations, may deliver excellent services. While membership in a tour association is advantageous, it does not always ensure high-quality services. This is why considering other factors is also crucial.
Company Reputation and Reviews: The best way to gauge a company’s credibility is by reading online reviews. Reputable safari operators should have positive testimonials from previous customers. Platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings offer reviews and recommendations from real customers who have used a tour agency’s services. Travelers can even contact reviewers directly for further insights. Customer reviews can help you determine if a company will fulfill its promises. Don’t dismiss a business based on a few negative reviews; instead, look for overall patterns.
Social Media Presence: Is the company active on social media? Check their social media profiles to assess their credibility. Platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn are valuable resources for learning more about a business. By browsing through a tour company’s social media pages, you can find additional testimonials from customers and past travelers. You can also see the company’s location, address, and contact details, as well as whether they have physical offices. Only book with a safari company if you are satisfied with your research.
Communication Frequency: A reputable safari company will promptly address your initial inquiry. The timeliness and accuracy of their response are indicators of how serious they are. If a tour agency takes more than two days to respond, you should reconsider. Timely responses are especially important in case of emergencies during your safari. A good tour operator should provide all necessary travel-related information quickly.
Bank Details: A reputable travel agency should have a bank account in the country where it is registered. By examining the company’s bank information, you can verify if they are a registered company. Only registered tourism companies in Rwanda are granted corporate accounts by banks. A trustworthy Rwanda safari company will be able to provide proof of their corporate bank account. Never transfer funds to personal accounts. Always ensure that the bank account name matches the company name.
Flexibility of the Itinerary: Before choosing a gorilla trekking company, ensure that all activities are covered in the final itinerary. A good tour operator will be flexible with the itinerary, allowing you to make changes as needed. If the itinerary cannot be modified to suit your preferences, look for another company. You should have an active role in choosing the destinations and activities. The tour operator should inform you of all available options, offer recommendations, and allow you to make the final decision.
Cost: The prices charged by safari operators vary. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s essential to compare pricing from a list of tourism companies in Rwanda. However, selecting a Rwanda safari company based solely on price is not a wise decision. Some companies offer low prices just to secure a booking, but in return, they provide subpar services such as old vehicles, poor accommodation, and inexperienced guides. It’s advisable to choose a provider who charges a fair price without compromising on quality.
Ownership: Some tourists may opt to spend more on trips with foreign companies because they doubt the quality of services provided by local operators. While choosing a globally recognized company is fine, locally-owned businesses can offer the same level of service at a much lower price. By traveling with a local African tour company, you are directly supporting local employment and empowering the community. Local businesses also provide guides who are knowledgeable about the local language and culture. If you are concerned about safety or service quality, check reviews of local tour operators on platforms like TripAdvisor or Facebook.
Payment Method: Reputable tour companies will never ask for payments to be made via personal accounts or money transfer services like MoneyGram, Western Union, or WorldRemit. The best operators accept payments through methods such as direct office payments, PayPal, Pesapal, or bank transfers. All payments should be made to a corporate bank account with the tour agency’s name. Customers should have the option to make secure payments online via credit card or bank transfer.
Safety: Even though it’s listed last, safety is a critical factor when choosing a safari company. Reputable safari operators prioritize guest safety and ensure that safety protocols are in place. If a company does not provide insurance, it should make that clear and recommend possible providers. A trustworthy safari operator will also inform you of any safety precautions to take during your trip, both in the national parks and in the cities, and provide updates on the current security situation. They should reassure travelers that they will be safe while interacting with wildlife and within the national parks.
How Are Tour Operators in Rwanda Different from Rwanda Tour Agents (Rwanda Tour Agencies)?
This is a common confusion among those outside the travel industry, yet there are significant distinctions between the best Rwanda tour operators and Rwanda tour agents(Rwanda tour agencies).
In the tourism industry, tour operators and tour agents perform different tasks and provide different services.
Understanding these differences will help you distinguish between the two.
Characteristics of Tour Operators in Rwanda
Rwandan tour companies create itineraries and tailor them to the interests of their clientele.
They don’t market travel packages that don’t belong to them.
- Tour companies in Rwanda offer packages directly to clients, although they occasionally seek assistance from a travel agency.
- These Rwandan tour companies often focus on a limited number of travel destinations.
- Tour operators in Rwanda are self-sufficient and generate revenue from the tours they offer.
Characteristics of a Travel Agent
Who is a travel agent? This individual arranges trips for clients on behalf of suppliers.
A travel agent acts as a middleman between lodging establishments, tour operators, airlines (airline travel agencies found in Kigali City), vehicle rental companies, and other service providers.
The following traits apply to a travel agent:
- Travel agents act as intermediaries between clients and service providers, essentially functioning as brokers.
- Tour companies provide travel agents in Rwanda with tour packages to market.
- Travel agents do not create their own tour packages.
- They rely on the assistance of other travel-related businesses.
- Travel agencies provide services to multiple countries.
- They earn a commission for each reservation they make.
See list of travel agencies in Rwanda here.
What Are the Types of Tour Operators in Rwanda?
In Rwanda, there are five different kinds of tour operators, each performing a distinct role in the travel sector.
These are the different types of travel companies in Rwanda:
- Inbound tour operators
- Outbound tour operators
- Domestic tour operators
- Ground tour operators
- Amenable tour guides
Below is an explanation of each type of tour operator in Rwanda.
Inbound Tour Operators in Rwanda
Inbound tour operators in Rwanda are destination management companies with local offices that cater to tourists’ needs.
They create tour packages with itineraries, including payment methods, for their international clients.
These companies can assist family, individual, and group travelers.
Why Use an Inbound Tour Operator in Rwanda?
There are several reasons to work with inbound tour companies when booking your Rwanda safaris.
These include:
- Inbound tour companies can provide the latest travel regulations for the destination country.
- These tour guides can respond quickly in case of an emergency because they are physically present in Rwanda.
- Inbound tour companies offer essential local advice and guidance prior to your trip.
- They assist with budgeting your entire stay in Rwanda.
- You can save time by using inbound tour operators, as they handle all bookings and reservations.
- Inbound tour operators sell customized or specialized itineraries.
- They have local guides and interpreters who will ensure the success of your safari in Rwanda.
Outbound Tour Operators in Rwanda
Outbound Rwanda tour operators are best suited for handling foreign visitors. They transport travelers from their home country to other nations.
Essentially, they offer trip packages that allow travelers to cross borders and explore internationally.
To provide clients with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, they collaborate with regional travel operators.
Domestic Tour Operators in Rwanda
Rwandan domestic travel operators create itineraries within the country and market them to the local population.
They work hard to encourage residents to travel and explore Rwanda.
Ground Tour Operators in Rwanda
Ground tour operators in Rwanda work locally or domestically but differ from domestic tour operators.
They welcome, prepare, and help organize tours on behalf of inbound or outbound tour operators.
These operators are on the ground, assisting tourists in enjoying their experiences during the activities.
Why Use a Ground Tour Operator in Rwanda?
Ground tour operators in Rwanda are familiar with the area and have local contacts, which allows them to ensure smooth logistics and handle emergencies effectively.
These Rwanda travel agencies typically focus on specific regions or types of tourism.
Payment Methods Accepted in Rwanda
In Rwanda, credit cards are becoming the preferred means of payment for online purchases as well as at high-end and mid-range tourist restaurants and hotels.
They must also be accepted by national park offices and the Rwanda Tourism Information Center in Kigali (although there may be occasional delays at these locations).
ATMs
Not all banks accept foreign credit cards, but most cities and towns in Rwanda have ATMs.
Notable exceptions include Ecobank, Bank of Kigali, and GT Bank, which accept both Visa and MasterCard.
Cash
Euros and US dollars can be exchanged at banks across the country, although the process can be slow.
Many people prefer to use foreign exchange bureaus in Kigali and other larger towns, which are often safer and faster.
Like other African countries, Rwanda is particular about the condition of currency notes it will accept.
Notes that are creased, excessively dirty, or worn out will likely be rejected. $50 and $100 bills are generally preferred.
Remember that most activities in Rwanda can be paid for in US dollars, and almost all hotels accept them, so you may not need to exchange much money if you bring US dollars with you.
Traveler’s Cheques
Only American Express traveler’s cheques are recommended. You may have difficulty cashing others, or you might not be able to cash them at all.
There will also be a fee to exchange them for cash.
Despite American Express’s claims, you will need a passport and proof of purchase to confirm that the checks you wish to cash are indeed yours.
Additionally, the exchange rate for traveler’s cheques is usually lower than that for cash.
A small number of banks in Rwanda accept traveler’s cheques.
In Rwanda, this is one of the most secure methods of making purchases.
Money Transfers
If you need to receive money, it is best to use services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or WorldRemit.
Bank-to-bank transfers take longer and are often more complicated. Western Union and other money transfers are usually settled in Rwandan francs.
WorldRemit is typically the best option as it is much cheaper than Western Union.
With WorldRemit or Western Union, you can send money directly to someone in Rwanda through an MTN phone, and the recipient can receive the funds from an intermediary in Rwanda.
Using WorldRemit is the most efficient way for someone to send you money.
Sustainable Tourism in Rwanda
In recent years, the concept of sustainable tourism has gained significant traction in the global travel industry.
As tourists become more conscious of their environmental and social impacts, destinations worldwide are working to implement sustainable practices to protect the long-term viability of their tourism sectors.
Rwanda is one nation that has emerged as a shining example of sustainable tourism.
Rwanda has successfully transformed its tourism industry into a sustainable model, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and commitment to conservation.
This section of the article explores the key programs and strategies that have helped Rwanda become a leader in sustainable tourism, and how these efforts have benefited local communities and the environment.
Beyond conservation initiatives, sustainable tourism aims to improve local communities’ livelihoods and empower them.
Community-based tourism initiatives have been central to Rwanda’s efforts in achieving this goal.
One such project is the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village (Now called Gorilla Guardians Village), located near Volcanoes National Park.
This village offers visitors a unique cultural experience, allowing them to interact with the local population, learn about traditional customs, and participate in activities such as handicraft workshops and traditional dance performances.
The community members share the revenue from tourism-related activities, providing them with a stable source of income and reducing their dependence on environmentally harmful industries.
Another notable example of community-based tourism in Rwanda is the Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Tourism Village, located near Nyungwe Forest National Park.
The village provides eco-friendly accommodations and offers various activities that allow guests to explore the pristine forest and learn about local customs.
In addition to creating jobs for the local population, the project has contributed to the conservation of Nyungwe Forest by promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem.
Rwanda has made significant investments in developing environmentally friendly infrastructure to support its sustainable tourism ambitions.
The country has made great strides in adopting renewable energy, with a particular focus on solar and hydro-power.
This not only reduces the tourism sector’s carbon footprint but also provides local communities with reliable and sustainable energy sources.
In addition, Rwanda has implemented recycling programs and waste management strategies to minimize the negative environmental impacts of tourism.
These efforts have not only increased the overall sustainability of the tourism industry but also enhanced the guest experience by offering Eco-friendly accommodation options and amenities.
Best Cars for a Rwanda Safari
Due to Rwanda’s natural abundance of breathtaking sights, going on a safari excursion there is an exhilarating and adventurous experience.
Travelers from all over the world visit Volcanoes National Park to witness the renowned mountain gorillas.
Other popular safari destinations include Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park – home to the Big Five and Africa’s largest protected wetland.
Here are the best vehicles for safari trips in Rwanda.
Cars used by Rwanda Travel Companies
The following are the most common cars used by Rwanda Travel Companies. The choice of cars solely depends on the type of trip that you are booking.
The Toyota Land Cruiser: One of the most popular vehicles for a safari excursion, the Toyota Land Cruiser is a 4×4 vehicle that can handle the challenging driving conditions in national parks. The pop-up roof allows you to take clear pictures and observe wildlife and birds. With room for two to four passengers, the Toyota Land Cruiser is an excellent choice for small family or friend groups.
The Super Custom Safari Vehicle: With six seats, the Super Custom is more affordable than the Toyota Land Cruiser. It is perfect for casual gatherings with family.
The Extended Toyota Land Cruiser: This custom-built SUV provides an exceptional driving experience. Its spacious interior, large cabin for passengers and luggage, powerful engine, elegant design, and ability to handle various road conditions make it stand out. Although it costs more than the standard Land Cruiser, it offers the best experience, especially for self-driving. This nine-seater Land Cruiser is ideal for group excursions. Additionally, a high-quality built-in sound system makes the journey more enjoyable.
The Toyota Rav4: The Toyota Rav4 is frequently rented by tourists in Rwanda due to its comfort and affordability. This four-door, four-wheel-drive vehicle comes with air conditioning, an MP3 player, FM radio, ample baggage space, and enough room for four people, including the driver. Rav4s are typically fully insured and are ideal for independent travel.
The Coaster Bus: With a larger seating capacity, the Coaster Bus is popular for group travel. It can accommodate up to 28 passengers. It features plenty of windows for excellent views of the surroundings and ample storage space in the back and ceiling for cargo. When renting a Coaster Bus, a driver is always included, and amenities such as air conditioning, an MP3 player, FM radio, and a television for watching movies during the ride are provided.
Roles of the Rwanda Tour Operators Association
The Association of Tour Operators in Rwanda is an organization that brings together all the players in the tourism industry.
Its role is to provide private regulation of tour operators to ensure that travelers receive the best services.
The association also performs quality assurance. While the government has a mandated body to oversee this from the public sector, the private sector uses the association to monitor the activities of tour companies.
The association is also responsible for resolving disputes between clients and tour operators.
You are not obligated to choose a tour operator based in Rwanda for your safari.
You can opt for an operator from neighboring countries like Uganda.
The East African Community facilitates cross-border business, so there is no disadvantage to selecting a Ugandan tour operator for your safari in Rwanda.
See our recommended list of travel companies in Rwanda here.