Driving in Rwanda: Roads, Rules and What to Expect

Rwanda has some of the best-maintained roads in East Africa, and driving here is genuinely pleasant. The main routes out of Kigali are smooth tarmac, signposting is clear, and traffic policing is consistent. That said, a few things are worth knowing before you collect the keys.

The basics

• Drive on the right, and overtake on the left.
• Speed limits are 40 km/h in towns, 60 km/h on the open road and 80 km/h on expressways unless signed otherwise.
• Seatbelts are mandatory for every passenger, front and back.
• No plastic bags — they are banned nationwide, so pack accordingly.

What catches people out

Motorcycle taxis are everywhere in Kigali and they filter through traffic constantly. Check your mirrors before every turn, and give them room. Outside the city, watch for pedestrians and cyclists on the shoulder, especially near markets and at dusk.

Rainy season

From March to May and again from October to November, afternoon downpours are heavy but short. Unpaved roads turn slippery quickly. If your route includes park tracks or upcountry gravel, take a 4x4 rather than a sedan — the extra clearance matters more than the traction.

Fuel and paperwork

Fuel stations are plentiful in Kigali and along the main highways, but sparse in the far west and north. Fill up before long stretches. Keep your licence, passport and the vehicle documents in the car — checkpoints are routine, polite and quick.

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