Traveling on a budget is important for every travel enthusiast. As Rwanda continues to grow as a preferred destination for travelers, there is also an increasing number of fancy, classy, and more expensive places to spend money. From hotels and restaurants to entertainment and transportation, there are many ways visitors can quickly overspend if they are not careful.
That is why budgeting wisely is essential when planning your trip to Rwanda.
In this article, I will focus only on transportation and share a few practical budgeting tips based on local experience and personal observations. I chose Kigali as the main reference point because it is generally more expensive compared to other parts of the country. In future articles, I will also share budget travel tips for other regions of Rwanda and cover other travel-related expenses as well.
My recommendations are based on local knowledge, personal visits to different places, and an understanding of how prices vary depending on the season, discounts, and negotiation. As many people in Rwanda say, prices for services — especially in hospitality — are often negotiable.
To keep this guide short and practical, I will provide only a brief overview of the transportation options travelers should consider when budgeting for their trip.
Transportation
Transportation is one of the main expenses travelers should plan carefully. In Kigali, there are several transportation options depending on your budget, comfort, and travel style.
You can:
- Take a taxi or cab with a driver
- Rent a car and drive yourself
- Use motorbikes for shorter and faster trips around the city
For adventurous travelers, motorbikes can be an exciting way to experience Kigali and enjoy the city’s breathtaking scenery. However, I would advise visitors to hire experienced riders since they are familiar with the roads, traffic rules, and different locations around the city..
Taxi and Cab Services
In Kigali, taxi and cab prices can either be calculated using a distance meter or negotiated before the journey begins. Depending on the company and the situation, both options are commonly used:
Move by Volkswagen
Move by Volkswagen is recommended to travelers looking for comfortable and classy transportation. Their vehicles are usually neat, modern, and comfortable for moving around the city. The newness of cars of Move by Volkswagen comes from the fact that they are locally assembled by Volkswagen subsidy
As the price per kilometer changes depending on the distance covered, the current average is around 1,080 Frw/km (USD 0.7).
One advantage of Move is their availability across different parts of Kigali. Travelers can easily access nearby cars through their service line by calling 100 (toll-free).
Yego Cabs
Yego Cabs is one of the most recognized transportation companies in Kigali and the whole country. The company became popular due to its long presence in the market since 2018 and its visibility across the city. Because Yego works with different car owners, there is sometimes room for price negotiation despite the use of distance meters.
On average, their price is around 1,000 Frw/km (USD 0.68).
Their mobile application also makes it easier for travelers to request rides conveniently. Through yegomoto.com you can access their easy to use mobile application by indicating your destination and it autocalculates the amount you will pay.
Motorbikes
Considering Kigali’s geographical landscape and the arrangement of homes in different neighborhoods, motorbikes remain one of the most practical transportation options in the city.
They are often faster and more convenient, especially during busy hours. Unlike most taxi services, motorbike transportation prices are usually negotiated directly with the rider before the trip begins.
Besides the well-known transport companies, there are also many local transportation providers that operate offline. Accessing their services often depends on personal connections, local recommendations, and negotiation skills.
Bonus Tips
If you enjoy riding motorbikes, you can also consider renting one and exploring Kigali at your own pace. Rent your preferred motorbike at kigalimotorbikerental.rw. For travelers who prefer driving themselves, car rental services are also available in Kigali, book yours at kigalicarrentals.com
Final Thoughts
Kigali is a safe, clean, and vibrant city. The hospitality of the people and the general atmosphere of the country make Rwanda an enjoyable destination for many travelers.
However, like in any foreign country, it is always advisable to seek guidance from reliable local contacts or trusted service providers, especially when it comes to transportation and pricing. With proper planning and smart budgeting, it is possible to enjoy Rwanda without overspending.