First non-stop UK-Rwanda air link set for take off

The first non-stop air link between the UK and Rwanda in Africa is to take off next week.

RwandAir is to run three flights a week from Gatwick to the Rwandan capital of Kigali from May 26.

The airline will deploy a three-class Airbus A330-200 on the route on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays with a flight time of 8 hours 40 minutes. Return fares start at £372.

British travellers are among the top five nationalities to visit Rwanda, which attracted 1.3 million people last year.

The recent arrival of black rhinos in the country means that Rwanda is seen as one of Africa’s top countries for safaris.

Luxury group One&Only is to open a new lodge in Nyungwe while Wilderness Safaris is due to open Bisate Lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Operators, such as Red Savannah, Expert Africa and Wild Frontiers, are also offering bespoke holidays and tours in the country.

Rwanda Development Board chief tourism officer, Belise Kariza, said: “Rwanda has seen a transformation in recent years and is now becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for premium travellers.

“With the new non-stop RwandAir flights to Kigali, and the opening of several premium lodges, Rwanda will be making a big impact as a must-visit country.”

Gatwick chief commercial officer, Guy Stephenson, added: “This new service makes the adventure of a life time in the heart of Africa a real possibility for more people than ever before, be they spotting gorillas in the wild, game animals on safari or visiting the beautiful tea plantations.

“Rwanda is the latest long haul destination Gatwick serves and we know proudly boast more than 50 long haul routes in total – a claim few other international airports can make.”