Medical care cannot be compared to Europe and is often highly problematic in terms of technology, equipment or hygiene. In many cases there is also a lack of European-trained doctors who speak English or French. Sufficient health insurance coverage valid there and reliable travel insurance are strongly recommended. Check ebizdir for more information.
Notes vaccinations
[1] A vaccination certificate against yellow fever is required for all travelers. Regardless of the official regulations, vaccination against yellow fever is recommended for all travelers, as Rwanda is one of the infected areas. Vaccination against yellow fever is available at Kigali Airport (cost: US$40). [2] A certificate of vaccination against cholera is not an entry requirement, but there is a risk of infection. Since the effectiveness of the vaccination is disputed, it is advisable to seek medical advice in good time before you travel. To protect yourself, you should practice careful drinking water and food hygiene. Vaccination is only recommended in rare cases. [3] Malaria protection is required year-round in all parts of the country. The predominant more dangerous form Plasmodium falciparum is said to be highly resistant to chloroquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine. [4] Due to the risk of possible infections, careful drinking water and food hygiene must be ensured. Water should generally either be boiled or otherwise sterilized before it is used for drinking, brushing teeth and making ice cubes, or it should be bought packaged. When buying packaged water, you should make sure that the original packaging has not been opened. Milk is not pasteurized and should also be boiled. Only mix dry and canned milk with sterile water. Dairy products made from unboiled milk should be avoided. Meat and fish dishes should only be well cooked and served hot. Pork, raw salads and mayonnaise should be avoided. Vegetables should be boiled and fruits should be peeled.
Other risks
Schistosomiasis pathogens are found in ponds and rivers nationwide, so swimming and wading in inland waterways should be avoided. Well maintained swimming pools with chlorinated water are safe. Filariasis caused by insects also occurs nationwide. Travelers reduce the risk of transmission if they use an effective insect repellent. Typhus occurs mainly in the slums at higher altitudes. The fever is caused by clothes lice. To protect yourself, you should practice regular body and clothing hygiene. Vaccination should only be considered in rare cases. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B occur nationwide. A hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended. Vaccination against hepatitis B should be given during longer stays and close contact with the local population, as well as for children and young people in general. HIV/AIDS is widespread and a great danger for everyone who takes the risk of infection: sexual contact, unclean syringes or cannulas and blood transfusions can pose a significant health risk. Epidemic outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis occur during the dry season (May – September and December – March). To protect yourself, you should get vaccinated and avoid large crowds. Sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) occurs particularly in the west of the country. Careful mosquito protection measures are recommended. In case of complaints after staying in endangered areas, consult a doctor in case of doubt. rabies occurs. Carriers include dogs, cats, forest animals and bats. Vaccination is recommended for backpackers, children, occupational risk groups and for longer stays. In the event of a bite, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Money
Currency
1 Rwandan franc = 100 centimes. Currency code: FRw, RWF (ISO code). There are banknotes in denominations of FRW 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500; Coins in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 FRW. In the larger cities of the country, US dollars are usually used to pay.
Credit cards
International credit cards such as Mastercard and sometimes also Diners Club are only accepted in the capital and only in some of the larger hotels. Details from the issuer of the relevant credit card.
ATMs
ATMs are not available in Rwanda.
Travelers cheques
Travelers checks are not accepted in Rwanda.
Bank opening hours
Mon-Fri 08.30-12.30 and 14.00-17.00, Sat 08.30-11.30.
Foreign exchange regulations
The import and export of the national currency is limited to 5,000 FRw. Unlimited import of foreign currency; duty of declaration. Export of foreign currencies up to the amount declared upon entry, minus the exchange amounts.
Currency Exchange
Cash can be exchanged for local currency, but it is recommended that you take US dollars and euros with you (new bills only). When traveling inland, only cash payment in local currency is accepted. Exchange facilities are available at banks, hotels and foreign exchange offices.
