A Guide to Filming in Rwanda : Capture the Land of a Thousand Hills on Camera
Rwanda offers one of Africa’s most filmmaker-friendly environments. Its lush green hills, modern cities, wildlife reserves, and cultural heritage sites make it a cinematic gem. Whether you’re shooting a documentary, feature film, or commercial, Rwanda delivers vibrant visual diversity and ease of logistics.
Filming Permits and Regulations
To film in Rwanda, you need permission from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). This government body processes all applications related to tourism and filmmaking. Start your application at least 15 working days in advance.
Provide the following:
- Detailed synopsis or script
- List of crew members
- Equipment inventory
- Filming dates and locations
- Purpose and distribution platform
If filming in national parks or sensitive locations, you may need additional permits from the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) or Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy.
Permit costs vary depending on the type and location of the shoot. However, Rwanda remains one of the most cost-effective countries for filming in East Africa.
Equipment Import and Customs
Declare all filming equipment at entry. Rwanda allows temporary importation through a carnet or a temporary import permit. You may need to pay a refundable security deposit, depending on the equipment’s value.
For drones, prior approval from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) is mandatory. Apply online with:
- Drone specifications
- Flight plan and GPS coordinates
- Insurance documents
- Purpose of use
Drones used without permission may be confiscated or result in penalties.
Top Filming Locations in Rwanda
- Volcanoes National Park – Misty mountains, endangered mountain gorillas, and bamboo forests.
- Lake Kivu – A scenic freshwater lake ideal for sunrise, boating, and lakeside life shots.
- Kigali – Rwanda’s capital—is clean, secure, and ultra-modern, with hills, skyline views, and vibrant street scenes.
- Nyungwe Forest – Lush rainforest with canopy walks and unique biodiversity.
- Nyanza and Huye – Historical towns home to the King’s Palace and traditional Rwandan architecture.
Best Time to Film in Rwanda
Rwanda has two dry seasons—mid-December to February, and June to mid-September. These are ideal for clear skies, smooth logistics, and wildlife visibility.
Rainy seasons (March–May and October–mid-December) can add cinematic atmosphere but may hinder transport, especially in remote areas.
Collaborating with Local Fixers
Rwanda has a growing network of professional fixers and production assistants. They can help with:
- Logistics and transport
- Location scouting
- Language translation
- Cultural liaison and crew hiring
Working with a local team ensures smooth coordination and cultural sensitivity.
Key Highlights:
- Apply for filming permits via RDB
- Declare all filming equipment and obtain drone clearance from RCAA
- Best time to film is during dry seasons: Dec–Feb and Jun–Sep
- Top locations include Volcanoes National Park, Kigali, and Lake Kivu
- Hire local fixers for easier navigation and access
Plan Your Rwanda Filming Experience
Rwanda stands out for its safety, accessibility, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you want to shoot gorillas in the wild, Kigali’s skyline, or lakeside life, Rwanda provides cinematic range and practical ease. Plan ahead, work with local experts, and bring your vision to life in this visually captivating country.
