$606 Cheap Flights to Rubavu

Flights to Rubavu at a glance

Traveling to Rubavu is easy, thanks to full-service airlines that provide a range of flight options. Review journey times and select the choice that best aligns with your schedule and plans to discover the city's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport near Rubavu: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
• Flights per week: 340+ flights arriving at Rubavu airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Rubavu: around 15+ carriers

Popular airport near Rubavu

Rubavu is a vibrant city that attracts visitors for its outdoor activities, stunning scenery, adventurous spirit, eco-friendly options, and family-friendly atmosphere. It is typically served by a major airport.

• Kigali International Airport (KGL): Situated in Akarere ka Kicukiro, approximately 62 miles from Rubavu, this airport facilitates international travel to around 45 destinations globally. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business class or premium economy service for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating at this airport include Rwandair, United, and Kenya Airways.

Top routes to Rubavu

• Nairobi (NBO) to Rubavu (KGL), with one-way flights starting at around $250
• Boston (BOS) to Rubavu (KGL), with one-way flights starting at around $420
• New York (JFK) to Rubavu (KGL), with one-way flights starting at around $450
• Chicago (ORD) to Rubavu (KGL), with one-way flight options from around $460
• Entebbe (EBB) to Rubavu (KGL), with one-way tickets available from around $190

Cheapest routes to Rubavu

• Entebbe (EBB) to Rubavu (KGL), with affordable one-way prices from around $190
• Bujumbura (BJM) to Rubavu (KGL), with cheap one-way fares from around $200
• Cairo (CAI) to Rubavu (KGL), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $210
• Dar es Salaam (DAR) to Rubavu (KGL), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $220
• Johannesburg (JNB) to Rubavu (KGL), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $230

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Rubavu

• Rwandair: This airline services Kigali International Airport (KGL) and is responsible for approximately 28% of arrivals in Rubavu. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of around $600, with premium options possibly including business class, depending on the specific route.
• United: Operating flights to Kigali International Airport (KGL), United accounts for roughly 17% of arrivals in Rubavu. The average one-way fare is about $780, and premium service might feature premium economy class on select routes.
• Kenya Airways: Kenya Airways also flies to Kigali International Airport (KGL), contributing around 14% of arrivals to Rubavu. The typical one-way fare is approximately $420, with premium offerings potentially including business class, based on the route taken.
• Ethiopian Airlines: This carrier operates to Kigali International Airport (KGL) and makes up about 9% of arrivals in Rubavu. Average one-way fares are around $580, and premium cabin options may feature business class depending on the route.
• Delta: Flying into Kigali International Airport (KGL), Delta is responsible for approximately 8% of arrivals to Rubavu. The average one-way fare stands at about $830, with premium options that may include business class based on the route selected.

Best time to fly to Rubavu

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Rubavu are January, March, and December, when peak temperatures in Rubavu can reach up to 67.3°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 67.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $539), roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? November, April, and March offer average one-way fares of around $556, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Rubavu

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Rubavu is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Rubavu hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Rubavu flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Rubavu

Rubavu welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Rubavu efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Rubavu, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Rubavu is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Rubavu

• Bigogwe: Bigogwe is located 9 miles away from Rubavu and offers a fantastic escape for outdoor enthusiasts. With scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking adventure. Explore nearby attractions such as the Musanze Caves for some thrilling exploration, or relax at Gisenyi Beach. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to the national park and nature reserve, making Bigogwe a great base for immersing yourself in Rwanda's stunning landscapes.
• Gisenyi: Gisenyi is located 4 miles drive away from Rubavu and is a vibrant city that captivates visitors with its outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. The area is ideal for hiking and kayaking, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying the picturesque views of the lake. Gisenyi Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, while the Rwanda Tourism University College offers a glimpse into local culture. Don't miss the chance to explore the national park nearby for an unforgettable adventure.
• Rugerero: Rugerero is located 2 miles away from Rubavu and is a charming destination for those who appreciate outdoor activities and stunning scenery. This city is surrounded by lush forests and is in close proximity to national parks, making it an excellent location for hiking and wildlife observation. Visit Gisenyi Beach for a relaxing day by the water, or take a trip to the Rwanda Tourism University College to learn more about the region's rich cultural heritage. Rugerero embodies the spirit of adventure in a picturesque setting.

Tips for short-haul flights to Rubavu

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by bringing travel-sized toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning versatile outfits. This not only saves you time but also helps you avoid waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself engaged, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts in advance, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to your departure, allowing for traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Rubavu

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select seats even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—be sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and available for use.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival point to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Rubavu

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Rubavu on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

November is the cheapest month to fly to Rubavu. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Rubavu. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Rubavu, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Rubavu

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Rubavu in 2026 starts from $951, while one-way tickets start from from $606. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Rubavu. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Rubavu

American Airlines, Qatar Airways, Delta, Turkish Airlines, KLM, United, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Rubavu. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Rubavu and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Rubavu, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Rubavu. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Rubavu plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Rubavu

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Rubavu.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Rubavu are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Rubavu. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Rubavu for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Rubavu. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Rubavu flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Rubavu. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.