Rwanda Car Hire: The Best Way to Explore Rwanda & Top Things to Do
Are you planning a trip to Rwanda and looking for the best Rwanda car hire options? Whether you prefer a self-drive adventure or a chauffeur-driven experience, renting a car in Rwanda offers freedom and flexibility to explore the country’s top attractions at your own pace.
From gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park to wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, primate encounters in Nyungwe Forest, and relaxing at Lake Kivu, this guide will help you choose the best car rental options in Rwanda and discover exciting things to do across the country.
Why Choose Car Hire in Rwanda?
🚗 Freedom to Explore – Travel at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
🚗 Convenience & Comfort – Avoid crowded public transport and travel in style.
🚗 Affordable & Flexible – Choose from budget-friendly to luxury vehicles.
🚗 Ideal for Self-Drive Safaris – Perfect for visiting national parks and off-road adventures.
Types of Car Hire in Rwanda
1. Self-Drive Car Rental in Rwanda
For travelers who love independence, self-drive car hire in Rwanda is a great option. With well-maintained roads and Google Maps navigation, you can easily explore the country.
🚗 Best Vehicles for Self-Drive:
✅ Toyota Land Cruiser – Perfect for off-road safaris.
✅ Toyota Prado – A great choice for long-distance travel.
✅ Rav4 – Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
📍 Recommended for:
- Safari trips to Akagera National Park
- Road trips to Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Lake Kivu
- Business and leisure travel in Kigali
2. Chauffeur-Driven Car Hire in Rwanda
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, hiring a car with a driver is a great option. A professional chauffeur can navigate the roads while you sit back and enjoy the scenery.
📍 Recommended for:
- Gorilla trekking tours in Volcanoes National Park.
- City tours & business trips in Kigali.
- Long-distance travel & cultural tours.
3. 4×4 Car Rental for Safaris in Rwanda
Planning a wildlife safari in Rwanda? A 4×4 vehicle is essential for navigating rough roads, especially in national parks.
🚙 Best 4×4 Vehicles for Safaris:
✅ Land Cruiser VX – Ideal for off-road travel.
✅ Toyota Hilux – Great for group safaris.
✅ Safari Land Cruiser – With a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing.
📍 Recommended for:
- Akagera National Park safari drives
- Nyungwe Forest adventures
- Volcanoes National Park expeditions
4. Airport Car Hire in Rwanda
For travelers arriving in Kigali, you can rent a car directly from Kigali International Airport for a seamless start to your journey. Many rental companies offer airport pick-up and drop-off services.
Top Things to Do in Rwanda with a Rental Car
1. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park 🦍
Drive to Volcanoes National Park and experience the world-famous gorilla trekking adventure. This is Rwanda’s top attraction, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
🚗 Distance from Kigali: 2.5-hour drive.
2. Wildlife Safari in Akagera National Park 🦓🦒🐘
Self-drive or take a guided safari through Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah wildlife park. Spot lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and more on a thrilling game drive.
🚗 Best Car Option: 4×4 vehicle (Land Cruiser or Prado).
🚗 Distance from Kigali: 2.5-hour drive.
3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest 🐵
Drive to Nyungwe National Park for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience. This tropical rainforest is also home to Colobus monkeys, baboons, and rare bird species.
🚗 Distance from Kigali: 5-hour drive.
🚗 Best Car Option: 4×4 vehicle.
4. Lake Kivu – Relaxation & Boat Cruises ⛵🌊
After adventure-packed safaris, relax at Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake. Enjoy a boat cruise, swimming, or kayaking while taking in stunning views.
🚗 Distance from Kigali: 3-hour drive.
🚗 Best Car Option: Any sedan or SUV.
5. Kigali City Tour – Culture & History 🏙️
Explore Rwanda’s capital city with a self-drive rental car or a guided tour. Visit:
✅ Kigali Genocide Memorial – Learn about Rwanda’s history.
✅ Kimironko Market – Shop for souvenirs and local crafts.
✅ Inema Arts Center – Discover Rwanda’s contemporary art scene.
🚗 Car Hire Tip: A sedan or SUV is ideal for city travel.
6. Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park 🌉
Experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, one of the most thrilling things to do in Rwanda. Walk across a suspension bridge 50 meters above the forest floor for breathtaking views.
🚗 Best Car Option: 4×4 vehicle.
🚗 Distance from Kigali: 5-hour drive.
How to Book a Car Hire in Rwanda
📍 Step 1: Choose Your Car Type – Select a self-drive vehicle, 4×4 safari car, or a chauffeur-driven option.
📍 Step 2: Pick Your Rental Duration – Car rentals in Rwanda are available for daily, weekly, or long-term hire.
📍 Step 3: Request Extras – Add options like camping gear, Wi-Fi, GPS, or a rooftop tent.
📍 Step 4: Confirm Your Booking – Secure your car rental online or by phone.
🚗 Car Hire Price Tip:
- Self-Drive Rental – From $50 per day (SUVs start at $80).
- Chauffeur-Driven Cars – From $100 per day, including driver fees.
- 4×4 Safari Vehicles – From $150 per day, ideal for national parks.
Why Rent a Car in Rwanda?
✅ Cost-Effective – Save money compared to guided tours.
✅ Unlimited Flexibility – Explore at your own pace.
✅ Ideal for Small Groups & Families – Travel comfortably together.
✅ Perfect for Business & Safari Travelers – Enjoy smooth and private transport.
Book Your Rwanda Car Hire Today!
Whether you need a self-drive car rental in Rwanda, a 4×4 for safaris, or a chauffeur-driven vehicle, we offer affordable and reliable options.
📅 Contact us now to book your car hire in Rwanda and start exploring the best things to do in Rwanda!