Backpacking in Rwanda: The 2025 Budget Travel Guide
Rwanda might be best known for its incredible gorilla trekking, but there’s so much more to discover , and yes, it’s entirely possible to explore this beautiful country on a backpacker budget. Whether you’re planning a slow adventure across East Africa or traveling solo, Rwanda offers scenic beauty, safety, and warm hospitality without breaking the bank.
Accommodation
Rwanda offers a range of affordable lodging options. While it may not have as many hostels as Kenya or Uganda, guesthouses and local stays are widely available.
- Kigali hostels: $10–$20/night (dorm)
- Guesthouses in Musanze, Huye, or Nyamata: $10–$25/night (private rooms)
- Camping: $5–$8/night in some parks and lodges
For specific budget-friendly options, check out our guide: 7 Budget Hotels in Rwanda for Backpackers & Solo Travelers.
Food & Drinks
Rwandan food is simple, filling, and affordable. Whether it’s a street stall or a cozy café, you’ll find something delicious everywhere.
- Local meals (chapati, beans, rice, plantains): $1–$3
- Mid-range restaurant: $5–$8
- Street food (sambaza, brochettes, boiled eggs): $0.50–$2
- Coffee or tea: $0.50–$1.50
- Beer (Primus, Skol): ~$1
For detailed insight on Rwandan food to try, check out our guide: Rwandan Food: Best Local Dishes You Must Try.
Transportation
Rwanda’s public transport system is efficient, clean, and cheap. You can easily travel between cities or within Kigali on a backpacker budget.
- City buses in Kigali: $0.20–$0.50
- Moto-taxis: $0.50–$3 (depending on distance)
- Intercity minibuses: $2–$5 (2–3 hr rides)
- Kigali to Musanze: ~$3 by minibus
- Car rentals: $60+/day (not budget-friendly)
Activities & Sightseeing
While gorilla trekking is expensive, there are plenty of budget or even free experiences in Rwanda.
Affordable Activities:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial : Free (donations encouraged)
- City walking tours & cultural visits: $5–$10
- Hiking in Nyungwe or Volcanoes (non-gorilla trails): $30–$50
- Lake Kivu boat rides or beach time: $5–$20
- Biking the Congo Nile Trail: Free (self-guided) or ~$30/day with guide
High-Cost but Optional:
- Gorilla trekking permit: $1,500
- Golden Monkey permit: $100
- Chimp trekking (Nyungwe): $150
SIM Cards & Internet
Staying connected in Rwanda is affordable and easy. You’ll find reliable 4G coverage across most regions.
- SIM card (MTN or Airtel): $1
- 1GB data: ~$1–$2
- Wi-Fi: Available in most cafés and guesthouses
Daily Budget Summary
| Category | Daily Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–$20 |
| Food & Drink | $5–$10 |
| Transportation | $2–$5 |
| Activities | $5–$15 |
| Misc (data, tips) | $1–$3 |
| Total per Day | $20–$45 |
Sample Weekly Budget (7 Days in Rwanda)
| Category | Weekly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $105 |
| Food & Drinks | $56 |
| Transport | $20 |
| Activities | $70 |
| Miscellaneous | $15 |
| Total | ≈ $266/week (~$38/day) |
Quick Backpacker Tips for Rwanda:
- Learn a few Kinyarwanda greetings it goes a long way
- Respect photography rules, especially in villages
- Travel with cash for rural areas (MTN Mobile Money is also popular)
- Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter (tap water isn’t safe)
Rwanda proves that unforgettable travel experiences don’t need a luxury budget. With clean cities, kind locals, and adventure everywhere, it’s a backpacker’s paradise. From Lake Kivu sunsets to Nyungwe hikes and Kigali’s energy , travel smart, stay curious, and Rwanda will reward you with memories for life.