Southern

stateRwanda, Africa

Southern is a STATE in Rwanda, Africa.

The Southern Province of Rwanda is a breathtaking region known for its lush landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant culture. Home to the stunning Nyungwe Forest National Park, this area is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nyungwe, one of Africa's oldest rainforests, offers incredible biodiversity, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and over 300 bird species. The region is also famous for its tea plantations, which paint the hillsides in vibrant green hues. Visitors can explore the Congo Nile Trail, a scenic route perfect for hiking and biking, or visit Lake Kivu for serene lakeside relaxation. The Southern Province is deeply rooted in Rwandan traditions, offering travelers a chance to experience authentic cultural performances and local crafts.

Best time to visit Southern

The best time to visit the Southern Province is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months offer ideal weather for trekking in Nyungwe Forest and exploring the region's outdoor attractions.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 26-32°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Transition month

Know before you go

Getting there

FNA

Lungi International Airport

International

200 km away

BTE

Sherbro International Airport

Domestic

15 km away

Getting around

"Public transportation includes buses and shared taxis, but renting a car or hiring a private driver is recommended for flexibility. Motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis) are common for short distances, while bicycles are popular for exploring rural areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime exists; avoid isolated areas after dark.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime exists; avoid isolated areas after dark.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

5/10

"The Southern Province is generally safe, but avoid walking alone at night in rural areas. Keep valuables secure and be cautious when using moto-taxis. Always follow park regulations when visiting Nyungwe Forest."

Entry and health

Health information

"Malaria is present in the region, so take prophylactics and use mosquito repellent. Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for elders and community is highly valued. Greetings are important; always greet locals with a handshake or a polite 'Muraho' (hello). When visiting villages or cultural sites, it's customary to ask for permission before taking photos."
KinyarwandaFrenchEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs around $5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices are lower than in Freetown; bargaining is common.

Timezone

Africa/Kigali +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

3,000,000

Area

5,963 km²

ISO code

RW-05

Type

state

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Intara y'Amajyepfo, Νότια Ρουάντα, جنوبی صوبہ، روانڈا, Южная провинция, Southern Province, Südprovinz, Província do Sul, Јужна покраина, Süüd Prowins, Province du Sud, Provincia Meridionale, Южна провинция, Південна провінція, Etelä-Ruanda, RW-05, Pietų provincija, Lõunaprovints, სამხრეთი პროვინცია, Província del Sud, Sørprovinsen, Mkoa wa Kusini, Jižní provincie, Prowincja Południowa, Provinsi Selatan, استان جنوبی, Güney Eyaleti, Hegoaldeko probintzia, جنوبی صوبہ, Кечӹвӓлвел провинци, Intara y’Amajyepfo, Amajvepfo, Lâm-pō͘ Séng (Rwanda), Jižní Provincie, Provincia de Sud, Հարավային նահանգ, Provincia Sur, Sud, 南部州, 남부주, Amajyepfo, Süd Provinz, Southern Province, Ruwanda, Süd, 南部省 (卢旺达), 南部省, Southern, Gitarama, Gitarame, Nkitarama, gitalama, gitarama, ji ta la ma, Γκιταράμα, Гитарама, Гитараме, გიტარამა, ギタラマ, 吉塔拉馬, 기타라마

Major HubBeachWildlifeEco-TourismCulturalHikingBirdwatching