Before you land at Kigali International Airport, one practical question needs answering: what currency does Rwanda use, and what should I actually bring?
Here is the complete money guide from Rent Cars Kigali — we deal with payments from visitors of 30+ nationalities every month.
What Currency Does Rwanda Use?
Rwanda's official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). As of 2026, the approximate exchange rate is:
- 1 USD ? 1,100–1,150 RWF
- 1 EUR ? 1,200–1,250 RWF
- 1 GBP ? 1,400–1,450 RWF
These rates fluctuate — check a current source before travel.
Do You Need Rwandan Francs?
Yes — for daily life. No — for most tourist transactions.
Here's the practical reality:
- USD is widely accepted in tourist-facing businesses — hotels, better restaurants, car rental, national park fees. Many tourism prices are quoted in USD.
- RWF is needed for street food, local markets, boda bodas, matatu buses, small shops, and anything in rural areas.
- Our car rental is priced in USD and paid in USD, card, or mobile money.
Best Way to Get Rwandan Francs
Option 1: ATM in Kigali (Recommended)
The most convenient and usually best rate. Bank of Kigali ATMs are the most reliable for international cards. Located throughout Kigali including at the airport arrivals hall. Daily withdrawal limits typically 200,000–500,000 RWF (~$175–$435).
Option 2: Bureau de Change at the Airport
Convenient on arrival — USD, EUR, GBP, and most major currencies accepted. Rates are slightly less favorable than ATMs but perfectly acceptable for your initial cash needs.
Option 3: Exchange at Your Hotel
Most upscale hotels offer currency exchange. Convenient but typically the worst rates — use only for small amounts in a pinch.
How Much Cash to Bring to Rwanda
Our recommendation for a 7-day Rwanda trip:
- USD $200–$300 in cash — for car rental deposit, park fees, tips, and emergencies
- RWF 50,000–80,000 ($45–$70) — withdrawn from ATM on arrival for daily expenses
- Visa or Mastercard — for hotels, better restaurants, and larger purchases
Tipping Culture in Rwanda
Tipping is appreciated but not expected in the same way as in the US. Guidelines:
- Restaurant: 5–10% for good service — not automatic
- Gorilla porter: $10–15 per porter (they work hard — tip generously)
- Gorilla guide: $10–20 per guide
- Hotel staff: 1,000–2,000 RWF for exceptional service
- Car rental driver: 5,000–10,000 RWF per day for outstanding service (not required but very appreciated)
Is USD Better Than Euros in Rwanda?
USD is the preferred foreign currency in Rwanda. Most tourist prices are quoted in USD. Euros are accepted but you may get a slightly less favorable rate. GBP is accepted but less common. Bring USD if you have a choice.
Mobile Money in Rwanda
Rwanda's MTN Mobile Money system is widely used by locals and can be useful for visitors who buy a local SIM. We accept MTN MoMo for car rental payments — convenient if you prefer not to carry cash for the deposit.
Money sorted — now sort your transport. Book your Rwanda car rental from $35/day and we accept all major payment methods.
