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• Arrival/departure transfers
• Air conditioned transport in 4×4 jeeps with bottled water onboard
• Gay group host from beginning to end of tour
• Expert local English-speaking guides
• All activities and entrance fees to sites mentioned in itinerary
• Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
• Gratuities for drivers, hotel staff, porters
• Gorilla trek Permit ($1,500 USD per person, non-refundable/non-transferable)
• Golden Monkey trek permit ($100 USD per person, non-refundable/non-transferable)
• International and Domestic Airfare
• Meals & Activities not mentioned in itinerary
• Alcoholic beverages at lunch and dinner, unless otherwise indicated
• Gratuities for your Host and Local Guide(s) (budget approximately $100 USD)
• Items of a personal nature
• Entry visa costs
• COVID-19 PCR test – if required by local authorities prior to trek (budget approximately $60 USD)
• COVID-19 rapid tests, or any expenses related to a guest contracting COVID-19.
• Travel insurance – mandatory for all travellers.
Gay travellers are warming up to the Land of a Thousand Hills
The Land of a Thousand Hills, laden with coffee and tea plantations, is emerging from the mist as a hot new destination for adventure travel. It’s surprisingly safe, is neat and tidy, and – while there’s work to be done – it’s the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in East Africa. Following a tragic genocide in 1994, the country is flourishing and progressing quickly. Tribal divisions have turned to unity. There’s mandatory education and universal healthcare. And as of 2022, Rwanda’s parliament boasts the highest percentage of women in the world at 61.3%.
Visa
Citizens of Canada, the USA, and Europe need a visa to enter Rwanda, but can obtain one upon arrival. You may also obtain a visa online (eVisa) – it will be processed within three working days and valid for a single entry for the next thirty days. Your passport must be valid for six months after entry, and have at least one empty page.
Culture Shock
Tourism in Rwanda is developing, but you can expect to see extreme poverty, and service levels may not be what you’re used to.
Local LGBT Scene
Rwanda is the only country in east Africa where same sex relations are legal and there’s an equal age of consent. Still, homosexuality remains a taboo subject for many. You’ll feel safe and can travel freely, but we discourage public displays of affection (gay or straight).
Weather
Unlike many African countries, Rwanda’s weather is ‘just right’ throughout the year. It may get as warm as 82°F/28°C in Kigali, and cool as 57°F/14°C in the park highlands. We’ll be visiting during their short dry season so don’t anticipate much rain.
Required Vaccinations
We recommend routine and measles vaccines, but to determine if you should take further measures, talk to your doctor or a travel medical clinic, as we cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for Type C and J sockets.
Connectivity
You’ll have high speed Wi-fi and Cell service Kigali and at our lodge, but connectivity may be limited while on our trek.
Money
Local currency is the Rwandan franc (RWF). We recommend carrying some cash for small purchases, although credit cards are accepted at hotels and most restaurants. We also recommend bringing about $200 USD in case of an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold.
What to bring
There is limited vehicle luggage space on safari so we ask that you bring a soft sided duffel bag with no more than 60 litres capacity. DO NOT bring a large hard-shell suitcase – oversized luggage will be left in the starting point hotel.
Starting Point Hotel
Kigali Marriott Hotel, Kigali
Within walking distance of several embassies, Kigali Marriott Hotel offers luxurious accommodation in downtown Kigali. Featuring on-site convention space and meeting rooms, this hotel also offers free WiFi access.
Each room at Kigali Marriott features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony with a seating area. The rooms are equipped with flat screen HDTVs and a minibar. The marble bathrooms are fitted with a shower, with slippers and free toiletries provided for your comfort.
Cucina Restaurant at Kigali Marriott serves innovative Italian cuisine, while the Lobby Bar is the place to unwind with a cocktail overlooking the city.
Pamper yourself with a variety of treatments at the Saray Spa, keep active at the fitness centre or relax by the poolside. Kigali Mariott guests benefit from a 24-hour front desk, concierge service and currency exchange services.
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