How to Find Cheap Flights to and from Rwanda
How to Find Cheap Flights to and from Rwanda
How to Find Cheap Flights to and from Rwanda: The Ultimate 2024 Guide
Introduction
Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a breathtaking destination nestled in the heart of East Africa. Whether you’re planning to explore the vibrant city of Kigali, trek with mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, or attend a business conference in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, finding affordable airfare can make or break your travel plans.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil expert strategies, tools, and insider secrets on how to find cheap flights to and from Rwanda in 2024. From leveraging flight comparison engines to timing your bookings just right, this article is your go-to resource for budget-friendly travel.
Why Rwanda Is a Rising Travel Destination
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of flight deals, it’s important to understand why Rwanda is becoming a hotspot for travelers:
- Eco-tourism and Wildlife: Home to rare mountain gorillas and lush rainforests.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Kigali is one of Africa’s safest and cleanest cities.
- Business Hub: A growing tech and innovation scene attracts international investors.
- Visa-Friendly Policies: Rwanda offers visa-on-arrival for most nationalities.
Best Platforms to Search for Cheap Flights to Rwanda
1. Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a powerful flight comparison tool that allows you to search across multiple airlines and travel agents. Use the “Whole Month” or “Cheapest Month” feature to find the lowest fares to Kigali International Airport (KGL).
2. Google Flights
Google Flights offers an intuitive interface and lets you track price trends. You can set alerts for specific routes and get notified when prices drop.
3. Momondo
This lesser-known gem often finds hidden deals and budget airline options. Its color-coded calendar helps visualize price fluctuations.
4. Kiwi.com
Kiwi combines flights from different airlines, even those that don’t usually cooperate, to create ultra-cheap itineraries.
5. CheapOair
Ideal for last-minute flights, CheapOair often features promo codes and flash sales.
Top Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Rwanda
✅ Book in Advance
- For international flights to Rwanda, booking 2–4 months in advance can save you up to 30%.
- Domestic flights within East Africa should be booked 3–6 weeks ahead.
✅ Be Flexible with Dates
Use flexible date search tools to find the cheapest days to fly. Mid-week flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are generally cheaper.
✅ Use Incognito Mode
Flight prices can increase based on your search history. Use your browser’s incognito mode to avoid dynamic pricing.
✅ Consider Nearby Airports
Though Kigali is the main international gateway, you can sometimes find cheaper flights to:
- Entebbe International Airport (Uganda)
- Bujumbura International Airport (Burundi)
- Kampala (via road transfer)
✅ Sign Up for Fare Alerts
Subscribe to fare alerts on platforms like:
Best Times to Fly to Rwanda on a Budget
🗓️ Low Season (March – May)
- Rainy season = fewer tourists = cheaper flights
- Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind occasional showers
🗓️ Shoulder Season (September – November)
- Pleasant weather and moderate tourist traffic
- Great time for gorilla trekking at lower costs
🗓️ Avoid Peak Season (June – August, December)
- High demand = high prices
- Book at least 4–6 months in advance if traveling during these months
Budget Airlines That Fly to Rwanda
While Rwanda is primarily served by full-service carriers, you can still find affordable options by mixing and matching airlines.
✈️ Major Airlines Serving Kigali:
- RwandAir – Rwanda’s national carrier with competitive regional fares
- Ethiopian Airlines – Offers frequent deals via Addis Ababa
- Kenya Airways – Hub in Nairobi with regional connections
- Turkish Airlines – Great long-haul deals from Europe and Asia
- Qatar Airways – Premium service with occasional discounts
🛫 Budget-Friendly Routes:
- Europe to Kigali: Via Brussels, Istanbul, or Doha
- USA to Kigali: Via Addis Ababa or Nairobi
- Asia to Kigali: Via Doha or Istanbul
Hidden Tricks to Slash Airfare Costs
🔄 Use Multi-City and Open-Jaw Tickets
Instead of booking round trips, try:
- Flying into Kigali and out of Entebbe
- Booking multi-city itineraries to unlock better deals
💳 Use Travel Credit Cards
Earn miles and points with cards like:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- American Express Platinum
- Capital One Venture
Redeem points for flights and save hundreds.
🧳 Travel Light
Avoid checked baggage fees by packing smart. Many budget airlines charge extra for luggage.
🧭 Use VPN to Search from Different Countries
Flight prices can vary based on your location. Use a VPN to simulate searches from low-income countries for better rates.
Where to Find Promo Codes and Flash Sales
- Follow airlines on social media
- Subscribe to newsletters
- Check Secret Flying and The Flight Deal
Sample Itineraries for Budget Travelers
🌍 Europe to Rwanda (Under $500 Round Trip)
- Brussels → Kigali via Turkish Airlines
- London → Kigali via Qatar Airways
🌍 USA to Rwanda (Under $700 Round Trip)
- New York → Kigali via Ethiopian Airlines
- Washington DC → Kigali via Kenya Airways
🌍 Asia to Rwanda (Under $600 Round Trip)
- Bangkok → Kigali via Qatar Airways
- Mumbai → Kigali via RwandAir + Ethiopian Airlines
Travel Hacks for Rwanda Once You Arrive
- Use local buses or moto-taxis for cheap transport
- Book domestic flights early via RwandAir
- Buy a local SIM card for affordable internet
- Eat at local restaurants for authentic and budget-friendly meals
Safety and Entry Requirements
- Visa on Arrival: Available for most nationalities
- Yellow Fever Vaccine: Required for travelers from certain countries
- COVID-19: Check Rwanda Biomedical Center for latest updates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the cheapest month to fly to Rwanda?
The cheapest months are March to May, which is the rainy season. Use tools like Skyscanner to identify the lowest fares.
2. Are there any budget airlines flying directly to Rwanda?
While there are no ultra-low-cost carriers flying directly to Kigali, airlines like RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines offer competitive regional fares.
3. How can I get alerts for cheap flights to Rwanda?
Sign up for fare alerts on:
4. Is it cheaper to book round-trip or one-way flights?
It depends. Use comparison tools to check both options. Sometimes, multi-city or open-jaw tickets offer better value.
5. Can I use points or miles to book flights to Rwanda?
Absolutely. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Kenya Airways are part of major alliances that allow mileage redemption.
Final Thoughts
Finding cheap flights to Rwanda isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. By leveraging the right tools, being flexible, and staying informed, you can unlock significant savings on your next trip to this East African gem.
Whether you’re traveling for adventure, business, or cultural exploration, Rwanda awaits with open arms—and now, your journey can begin without breaking the bank.