The Rwandan franc ( FRW, and possibly RF o RWF) is the Rwandan currency. It is subdivided into 100 centimes.  You can exchange money in the several exchange bureaus in Kigali city, right from the airport. However, it is advisable to exchange foreign currency outside Kigali city.

Most Banks open from 08.00 am – 8.00pm on weekdays (Monday to Friday) and on Saturday 8.00am 1.00 pm; on Sundays at 10.00 am to 6.00pm. On the Umuganda Day banks in Kigali open from 2.00 to 6.00pm. Credit cards are accepted at most supermarkets, restaurants and accommodation in Kigali. In the rural areas, it is only money in Rwanda Francs that they can comfortably accept.

Most banks in East Africa have difficulty accepting MasterCard. In Kigali counter service for withdrawals at Ecobank and Access Bank accept MasterCard withdrawals at a price.

Which banks in Kigali accept Visa cards?

Bank of Kigali (In Town)

ATMs at the bank of Kigali accept international visa cards. They offer 2 options: either Rwanda francs or Dollars. However they are inconsistent as they are on and off. Many times, one has to walk to the bank counters with a visa or MasterCard, Pin number and the passport to be helped though at a small cost.

Access Bank (Inside UTC 2nd Floor)

To withdraw money from your debit or credit card, one has to go to the counter and show a passport.

Fina Bank ATM (In downtown past the Gorilla roundabout towards Serena Hotel)

Note:  – ATM withdrawals have a limit of $700 a day.