A Comprehensive Guide to filming in Rwanda
Our detailed and well researched guide to filming in Rwanda provides you with vital information on how to go about pre-production, production and post production processes when planning to shoot a documentary or film in Rwanda.
With our vast knowledge about filming locations in Rwanda, you can rely on us to take care of your filming permits, hiring local and reliable fixer, producers and directors, clearing your filming equipment in and out of Rwanda, location scouting and recce to discover a perfect location for your shoot, casting, transport and accommodation, Drone hiring among others.
Location Rwanda
Film in Rwanda is a perfect location for documentary and film making due to its easy access, low-cost and value for money local production costs, and incredible variety of shoot options.
Thinking of doing any production work in Rwanda’s National Parks? Spectacular national parks such as Volcanoes National Park for gorillas and golden monkeys, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzees to Akagera National Park for the big five have got you covered. Rwanda Fixer will take care of all filming permits and production logistics on your behalf. Contact us for details.
On top of wildlife, Rwanda location boots of unbelievable hills and volcanoes hence the name “Country of a thousand hills”. Take advantage of the green lush vegetation, and a clean city Kigali to spice up your documentary. While in Rwanda doing production work, spare time to visit Lake Kivu which is a perfect location for marine and aquatic life.
Rwanda offers wonderful cultural music & dance, a strong sports arenas ethic, wonderful, beautiful and warm people, and fantastic cultural festivals that you can include in your documentary work.
Rwanda Fixer will provide you with full production and fixer support throughout your filming project to ensure you get the shots required. For details, please contact us
Frequently asked Questions about filming in Rwanda
Can I film in Rwanda as a foreign documentary and filmmaker?
Yes, foreign filmmakers and production companies can film in Rwanda as long as they hold valid filming permits and paper work. Location Rwanda is generally a welcoming country with nice people and has hosted numerous film crews and productions over the years. Rwanda fixer is on standby to assist with all pre-production and production logistics when needed.
Do I need a filming permit to do production work in Rwanda?
To film in Rwanda, all international crew members have to apply for a filming permit from the Rwanda Development Board(RDB) a body responsible for issuing all filming permits in Rwanda.
Depending on the shoot you are planning to conduct in Rwanda, RDB will issue out a film permit for you without hassle. To make the work smooth while processing your permit, you will be required to fill out a data collection form which we, as Rwanda Fixer, will submit on your behalf and follow up the whole process to ensure that a timely response is given and issue you with the media passes that allow you to film in the country.
Do I need a media card or press accreditation to shoot in Rwanda?
Yes, you need a media card/Press Accreditation card besides the mandatory Filming Permit issued by Rwanda Development Board. All Production team members MUST apply and acquire Press Accreditation from the Rwanda Media High Council as below.
How do I apply for a media card or Press Accreditation In Rwanda?
To apply for a media card in Rwanda, all Film crew members must fill in the Rwanda Press Accreditation Application Form and attach the below;
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- Official letter from your company requesting to be accredited and addressed to the Executive Secretary;
- Two (2) colored passport-size photographs per person.
- A copy of the passport (Must be valid at least for 6 months).
- A copy of the visa if your country is not among countries that do not benefit from visa waiver. Feel free to Contact Rwanda fixer to find out if you are exempted from visa.
- A copy of a press card/ Identity card from your country of origin.
- A receipt of payment from Rwanda Revenue Authority which is a must.
- List of Filming Equipment gear & Kits to be used during production.
How much do I have to pay for Press Accreditation in Rwanda?
All foreign crew and production members applying for accreditation cards must pay the below outlined fees to Rwanda Revenue Authority (RAA). The amount of fees varies depending on the days per shoot.
- -USD30 press Accreditation card valid 01-15 shoot days.
- -USD50 press/Media card valid 15days-01 months/30 Days shoot.
- -USD100 press/media card valid 01-03 months shoot.
- -USD200 press/media card valid 03-06 months shoot.
- -USD300 press/media card valid 06months-01 year/12Months shoot.
*Kindly note that the rate card mentioned above acts as a guide since they can change from time to time. After reading this please get in touch with Rwanda Fixer Support staff for any updates.
“Obtaining a valid Rwanda location Filming Permit +Press Accreditation/Media is the start of a successful Rwanda production Filming experience. Getting in touch with Rwanda Fixer perfects everything.
How much is the Media filming permit, and how do I apply for it?
The Rwanda general filming permit is charged USD100.00 per person on the crew, and all crew members are required to have it. Processing this takes about 3-5 working days as long as all required paperwork and fees are availed and paid for in time.
To apply for a Media filming permit in Rwanda, you will typically need to fill in and submit an application to the RDB, which we do for you on your behalf. The application form requires details such as the purpose of the shoot, filming locations, dates, crew information, equipment list, and a script or storyboard. Contact us to provide you with a form to fill out and also for guidance on how to go about it.
What is a general filming permit?
After you have obtained a media filming permit, you will need to get a general filming permit, and this depends on where you are planning to film. The general filming permit mostly applies if you are planning to film in cities, public spaces, and government installations; you need to seek for further permission to allow you access and film here. A fee might be charged, but this varies from one location to another.
Please provide me with Rwanda Visa Advice
It is recommended to apply for and obtain your visa before coming to Rwanda much as if can be obtain easily upon arrival at any entry point. We advise production and film crew members to apply for a business or tourist visa. Currently Rwanda tourist or visitor visa costs $30. Apply for your visa here
Film Crews coming from countries that benefit from the Rwanda Visa Waiver For example From the East African Community member states, USA, COMESA Member states among others don’t need to pay for the Visa and they will be cleared upon arrival at any point of entry into Rwanda contact Rwanda Fixer here for more details.
What is the main entry point for Rwanda?
Kigali International Airport is the primary international terminal in Rwanda with several Airline companies operating here. Depending on where you are coming from, we encourage you to check direct or connecting flights to Rwanda that suites your budget and time. Feel free to contact us.
Are there any filming restrictions by Rwanda Government?
Whereas it’s free and easy to film around the Rwanda once you have obtained a valid media filming permit, it should be noted that some areas in Rwanda have restrictions attached to them due to cultural, security, and environmental concerns as a country.
Therefore, it’s crucial that you find out exactly which part of your shoots is okay to shoot with or without permission. That’s why, as Rwanda Fixer, we always encourage all our esteemed clients/crews to always embrace the services of a local and reliable fixer who knows the ins and outs of the country and will advise you on how best to go about shooting in different locations.
Do I require a fixer for filming in Rwanda?
Yes, you need a reliable and local fixer for any shoot in Rwanda and you can never be disappointed when you hire services of Rwanda Fixer agency. Our Local fixer will provide valuable assistance, navigate the local regulations, handle logistics, and help you navigate the cultural aspects of location Rwanda.
Our production fixers come in handy as they assist you with all the shoot pre-production and production logistics, like obtaining filming permits, arranging transportation and accommodations, securing local contacts and resources, and ensuring a smooth production process. We will also provide you with a valuable service of a local translator while shooting.
Is it easy to hire local crew or production services in Rwanda?
Rwanda provides limited pool of local talent in form of Directors, Producers, Sound engineers, Cameramen among others. For small shoots, yes, it is possible to hire. For big production projects, we strongly advise and recommend coming with a complete and competent crew which we will assist with all paperwork to enter the country.
What are customs and equipment clearing requirements for Rwanda?
Rwanda is not a member of the ATA Carnet system, and so crew and foreign production companies will need additional permits and documentation to bring in film equipment/gear from abroad into Rwanda.
The Rwanda Revenue Customs charges a 10% non-refundable fee for temporary importation of filming gear and filming equipment into the country. Rwanda fixer through our trusted customs clearing agents, facilitates this on your behalf done within 3-4 working days of receiving your gear list.
Rwanda Fixer has a great deal of connections in Rwanda for equipment clearance, freight-forwarders, or even to secure a bond. This allows us to give you options. Chat to us, and we can figure out the best way to get this done.
Can I import or come with a Drone in Rwanda or I have to hire locally?
It is impossible to import a drone of any type in Rwanda for your production and aerial filming work due to current restrictions by the Rwanda Government. Drones in Rwanda are considered security threats and as such, no one is allowed to bring in one.
If you intend to use a drone as part of your shooting project, you will need to hire one from a person or company who is locally registered in Rwanda. Rwanda Fixer will assist in applying for location permissions for all the areas you will be using the drone.
Are you planning to have drone shots in Rwanda? Are you looking for a specific Drone model? Free to contact one of our Logistics fixers at Rwanda Fixer agency and he/she will come in handy.
What safety and security considerations when filming in Rwanda should I expect?
Rwanda location is generally considered one of safest countries in Africa for filming with many years of relatively prevailing peace and security. Having recovered from the 1994 genocide period, the people and government of Rwanda have strongly ensured that there is peace and security for social and economic development.
Rwanda Fixer is committed to providing updated security concerns on a daily and where needed, we provide advice and direction to make sure that your shoot is successful. Safety and security of our clients come first and the rest follow.
What are some popular filming locations in Rwanda?
Rwanda location boasts of a unique and diverse range of picturesque locations, and this makes it a major visit destination for filming crew and production around East Africa. Some popular filming locations include Volcanoes National Park for gorillas and golden monkeys, Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzees, Lake Kivu for aquatic shoots, Kigali City, and historical sites like the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
What is the best time to film in Rwanda?
Film and documentary making in Rwanda can be done throughout the whole year. Franky speaking, the best time to shoot in Rwanda depends on what you intend to achieve. However, warm months of June, July, August, September, January and February are considered the best months where visibility and precipitation is limited.
Does Rwanda Fixer provide transport services in Rwanda location?
Rwanda Fixer a brand of Africa fixer provides a wide range of vehicles depending on your budget, interest and size of your crew. From Vans to Luxury Land cruisers, we have got you covered.
All our vehicles are comprehensively insured and driven by mainly English-speaking drivers much as we can organize drivers that speak other languages.
Safari vans cost $100-150, Land cruisers $250-400 and all these come with drinking water on board. Fuel costs depend on the mileage during the shoot and the actual cost will be determined after the shoot.
Does Rwanda have proper Accommodation options?
Rwanda government has hugely invested in hospitality facilities and yes, Location Rwanda has Hotels/Lodges of any given budget from budget, midrange and luxury. Depending on where you will be shooting, Rwanda fixer will recommend a hotel that fits in your budget and needs.
Why use Rwanda Fixers during your shoot.
Rwanda Fixer a brand of Africa Fixers Ltd is arguably East Africa’s finest Production fixer agency with more than 14 years in business. Our passion and commitment has overtime made us the most preferred and reliable agency you can find online. Our POTIFILION talks volumes.
We have worked with hundreds of TV and Production companies globally and these are among the many. like BBC, ITV, E Entertainment, CCTV and SVT (Swedish National TV). Among other global brands like Google UK and Charity Water. Worked with many well reknown production companies including Silverback Filming, Endemol Shine Group, Prometheus Studios and Robot Air. We have also over the years supported numerous independent specialist media houses like Fictionless, Tripod Productions, Go Trolley Films and Redwoods Studios.
When you choose Rwanda Fixers, you will have chosen Africa’s most efficient production fixer partner.