How to Travel Rwanda on $20/Day (Complete Budget Guide)
Rwanda is known for its breathtaking landscapes, warm people, and rich culture, but what most travelers don’t know is that you can explore it all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a backpacker, student, or just love saving money, this guide will show you how to travel Rwanda on a $20/day budget without missing out on the essentials.
1. Stay in Local Guesthouses or Hostels
Clean and comfortable guesthouses in Kigali, Musanze, or Huye start from $8–$12 per night. Many include Wi-Fi, mosquito nets, free breakfast, or shared kitchens.
2. Eat Where the Locals Eat
Local buffets (“self-service”) cost only $1–$3 and include rice & beans, isombe(cassava leaves), plantains, vegetables, and brochettes(meat skewers).
3. Use Moto Taxis or Public Buses
Moto taxis cost $0.50–$1.50 around the city. For longer distances, try Volcano Express, Virunga Express, Ritco or other major bus companies.
4. Visit Free or Low-Cost Attractions
Rwanda offers incredible experiences without the price tag. Don’t miss:
- Kimironko Market (Free)
- Lake Kivu Public Beaches (Free)
- King’s Palace Museum (~$6)
- Nyamirambo Walking Tours (Tip-based)
- Nature hikes (Often free)
5. Buy a Local SIM Card
A SIM from MTN or Airtel costs about $1. Data bundles make navigation and WhatsApp calls cheap and easy.
6. Carry a Refillable Bottle & Water Filter
Instead of buying bottled water, refill and filter your own. Safe, clean water is often available at hostels or restaurants. It saves money and reduces plastic waste.
7. Learn a Few Kinyarwanda Phrases
Basic words help you connect better and sometimes get fairer prices:
- Muraho — Hello
- Ni angahe? — How much?
- Murakoze — Thank you
Can lead to friendlier treatment…
Want to learn more without getting overwhelmed? We’ve created a 10-page Kinyarwanda Phrasebook for Travelers available as a downloadable PDF. It includes essential phrases, pronunciation help, and useful words for getting around, eating out, shopping, and handling emergencies.
Download here our free 10-page Kinyarwanda Phrasebook for Travelers.
8. Walk Whenever Possible
Rwandan cities are clean, safe, and walkable. By walking, you’ll:
- Discover street art and culture
- Save transport costs
- Stay active and soak in local life
Sample $20/Day Budget Breakdown
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hostel stay | $10 |
| Local meals (3x) | $5 |
| Transport (moto/bus) | $2 |
| SIM, snacks, extras | $1–2 |
| Entry fees or tips | $1–2 |
Total Daily Budget: ~$20
You don’t need luxury to enjoy Rwanda. With $20/day, you can experience warm hospitality, delicious food, and stunning landscapes , the real beauty lies in the people you meet and the stories you take home.