Rwanda and Tanzania Practical Guide: Visas, Health, Money and Luggage

Combining two countries means two sets of rules. Most of them are simple if you start early, but some, especially permits and visas, have lead times.

This page gives practical principles and tells you where to check current official information. It deliberately quotes no fees, because they change.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Visas and Entry

The East Africa Tourist Visa covers Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, but not Tanzania, which has its own visa regime. Check the official immigration site of each country before travel for current rules, processing times and fees. Keep passport copies and your onward ticket. Details are in the Rwanda visa and practical information, the Tanzania visa guide and the East Africa visa guide.

Gorilla Permits

A gorilla permit is a national document. Rwanda issues its own, and Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo issue theirs separately, so one permit allows trekking in one country only. Rwanda permits are limited in number and are tied to a date, so they should be booked before flights. Rules cover age, health and behaviour on the trek. Read Rwanda gorilla permits and trekking rules and the Rwanda booking timeline.

Health and Vaccinations

See a travel health clinic well before departure. Malaria is a risk in parts of Tanzania, and advice differs for the Rwanda highlands, so ask about prevention. Routine vaccinations should be up to date, and some travellers need others according to their itinerary. Yellow fever certificate requirements can depend on where you have been. Do not trek if you have a cold or other contagious illness, since gorillas are vulnerable to human diseases. See health and vaccinations.

Money and Tipping

Rwanda and Tanzania use different currencies, and cards are accepted in many hotels and lodges but not everywhere. Carry some small notes for tips and small purchases, and withdraw cash in towns rather than at parks. Tipping customs vary, and your operator can suggest sensible approaches for guides, trackers and drivers. See Rwanda money and cards and Tanzania money, cards and tipping.

Luggage and Packing

Light aircraft in Tanzania impose weight limits and prefer soft duffels. Pack compactly, and store any extra luggage in Kigali or Arusha if your operator can arrange it. Rwanda needs waterproofs, gaiters, gloves and sturdy boots for trekking; Tanzania needs layers, a hat and neutral clothing. See luggage and light aircraft rules, what to wear for gorilla trekking and the packing list.

Insurance and Fitness

Travel insurance should cover medical care, evacuation and cancellation, and it should specify trekking on forest slopes. Gorilla treks vary in length and difficulty, so prepare with regular walking and stair practice. Porters are available in Rwanda and are worth hiring. See fitness and preparation for a training outline.

Travelling Responsibly in Two Countries

Both countries rely on tourism to fund conservation and support communities, and your choices matter. Follow the distance and health rules around gorillas, use licensed guides, respect photography rules around people, and buy crafts directly from makers where possible. Ask your operator how it supports local staff and community projects. Read the Rwanda responsible travel guide and the Tanzania responsible travel guide before you go.

Before You Book

Gather quotes that state inclusions, check permit dates against flights and confirm which official tariffs apply. The route and border guide explains the connection, the best time page shapes your dates, and the FAQs answer common queries. Return to the pillar guide for the big picture.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team