Rwanda Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to rent a car in Rwanda

A panoramic view of a city with a dense urban area, surrounded by green hills and a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
CarsCars

Kigali

Kigali

What you need to know for your Rwanda car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Rwanda

Renting a car in Rwanda offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the country's stunning attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, which is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. For instance, you can visit the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, known for its adventure activities and beautiful landscapes, or relax at Gisenyi Beach, a perfect spot for beach experiences. The Musanze Caves are also easily accessible, offering a unique outdoor adventure. Additionally, having a rental car allows you to conveniently explore popular cities like Kigali, where you can visit the Inema Art Center and the Presidential Palace Museum, or Musanze, home to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Gisenyi is another city worth visiting, featuring Nyamyumba Hot Springs and Rwanda Tourism University College. Overall, renting a car in Rwanda enhances your travel experience, giving you the independence to discover the diverse beauty of this remarkable country.

Most popular car rentals in Rwanda

  • Standard SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is an excellent choice for couples, families, or groups looking to explore Rwanda. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride and ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenic drives while having enough space for their belongings.
  • Premium SUV AWD: Perfect for business travelers, families, or groups, the Premium SUV AWD also accommodates 5 travelers with the capacity for 2 medium suitcases. This option offers a higher level of comfort and performance, making it suitable for those who prefer a more luxurious driving experience while navigating Rwanda's beautiful landscapes.
  • Compact: The Compact car is designed to comfortably accommodate 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it a versatile option for solo travelers, couples, or families. Its smaller size makes it easier to maneuver through urban areas and find parking, while still providing enough room for your luggage, making it a practical choice for your travels in Rwanda.

Where to stay in Rwanda

  • Kigali: The vibrant capital city of Rwanda, Kigali offers an array of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Within proximity, you can explore the Inema Art Center and Ivuka Arts Kigali, both excellent galleries for art enthusiasts. For history buffs, the Presidential Palace Museum is nearby. The city is also surrounded by a national state park, providing hiking trails and scenic views. Additionally, shopping centers and local coffee spots enhance your stay, making Kigali a well-rounded destination for travelers.
  • Muhoza: Located in the northern region, Muhoza is a great choice for outdoor lovers seeking adventure and beautiful scenery. Key points of interest include the Cathedral of Ruhengeri and the Red Rocks Arts Centre, offering cultural insights. The area boasts hiking trails and a nearby market, perfect for experiencing local life. With a nature reserve and a volcano close by, Muhoza is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Rwanda's natural beauty.
  • Gisenyi: Nestled by the lake, Gisenyi is famed for its stunning outdoor activities and picturesque scenery. Popular attractions include Gisenyi Beach, perfect for relaxation, and the Nyamyumba Hot Springs for wellness seekers. The area also offers kayaking opportunities, making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts. With its national state park and nature reserve close at hand, Gisenyi is a fantastic base for those wanting to explore Rwanda's natural wonders while enjoying local food and drink options.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Rwanda

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and gain access to better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come with lower rental fees and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the added cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for transactions.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your travels. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Rwanda

The best time to rent a car in Rwanda is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March and April also offer moderate pricing with lower demand, making them good options for budget-conscious travelers. However, as the year progresses, July tends to see a spike in demand, making it slightly high in price. September is typically the most expensive month for rentals, with high demand as well. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Find Rwanda Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Rwanda car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Rwanda, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Rwanda offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Rwanda car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Rwanda to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Rwanda airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Rwanda rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Rwanda airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Rwanda?
Smaller car classes tend to be among the most affordable car rentals in Rwanda, such as compact cars, which are easy to park and cheap to run for getting around. You'll find these options commonly picked up in major cities like Kigali, Ruhengeri, and Muhoza, from suppliers such as Europcar. Rates for car hire in Rwanda vary by city, pickup point, and season, so compare a few cities and dates on Expedia to find great value for your trip.
What are the best car rentals in Rwanda?
Car rentals across Rwanda come in a full range of vehicle types from providers like Europcar, broadly available in major cities such as Kigali, Ruhengeri, and Muhoza. The most common car classes for car hire in Rwanda include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Midsize 4-5 door
  • Standard crossover
  • Standard SUV
  • Fullsize SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or covering longer distances between regions. These options are broadly available, making Rwanda a great place to rent a car for any trip.

What are the best car rental companies in Rwanda?
For car rentals across Rwanda, Europcar offers a strong mix of vehicles with wide availability in major cities such as Kigali, Ruhengeri, and Muhoza. This makes it a good place to rent a car in Rwanda. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car one-way in Rwanda?
Yes, one-way car rentals are a great way to see Rwanda. You can pick up your car hire in Rwanda in a city like Kigali and drop it off in another, such as Ruhengeri, which is ideal for a cross-country road trip. Providers like Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies and can be higher over longer distances, so confirm it when booking on Expedia for your one-way car rental in Rwanda.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Rwanda?
For luxury car rentals across Rwanda, providers like Europcar offer premium categories, such as premium SUV and fullsize SUV options. These are high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for touring the country in style. You'll find them in major cities such as Kigali and Ruhengeri. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare before you book your car hire in Rwanda.
What are the best car rentals in Rwanda for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Rwanda, SUVs give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across major cities from Kigali to Ruhengeri:
  • Europcar: standard SUV — seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Europcar: fullsize SUV — seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips between regions. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods for car rental in Rwanda.

What are the best road trips in Rwanda by rental car?
With a car rental in Rwanda, the country opens up for multi-stop road trips between its major cities and regions:
  • Kigali to Ruhengeri — a classic route for exploring different parts of the country
  • Ruhengeri to Muhoza — ideal for shorter journeys within the northern region
  • Kigali to Muhoza — connecting the capital to the northern areas
A one-way car rental in Rwanda works well for point-to-point routes so you don't have to double back. Compare pickup cities and one-way options on Expedia to plan your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Rwanda?
In Rwanda, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the country's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction, for a smooth driving experience in Rwanda.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Rwanda?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Rwanda. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Rwanda?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Rwanda?
Budget car rental in Rwanda can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Rwanda?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Rwanda. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Rwanda car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Rwanda?
To rent a car in Rwanda, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Rwanda car rental?
If you need to cancel your Rwanda car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation