The roads are scenic but winding, following the contours of Rwanda's famous hills. Journey times can be longer than distances suggest due to the mountainous terrain and curves. Travel from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park takes about 2.5 hours for the 115-kilometer distance.
Secondary roads and those within national parks may be unpaved and require four-wheel-drive vehicles, particularly during rainy seasons. All safari vehicles used by reputable operators are appropriate 4x4s.
Traffic drives on the right side in Rwanda. However, most visitors travel with private drivers rather than self-driving, which is the recommended approach for navigating unfamiliar roads and maximizing the sightseeing experience.
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