Land Cruiser Rental Rwanda: Prado or Full Size for Safari?
How to choose between a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and a full size Land Cruiser for a Rwanda safari: capability, comfort, fuel, group size and which parks and seasons justify each one.
If you are planning a proper safari in Rwanda, with Akagera's northern plains, the rainy season or a crossing into Uganda, you will end up choosing between the two Toyotas that dominate East African safari driving: the Land Cruiser Prado and the full size Land Cruiser. They look similar in photos. They are not the same car, and the difference in price is USD 35 a day.
The two cars side by side
| Land Cruiser Prado | Toyota Land Cruiser | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily rate | USD 75 | USD 110 |
| Weekly rate | USD 450 | USD 650 |
| Seats | 7 | 8 |
| Size | Mid size | Full size |
| Rough track ability | Very good | Excellent |
| Fuel use | Moderate | Highest in the fleet |
| Kigali city driving | Easy | Bulky |
Both are automatic, body on frame 4x4s with low range gearing, air conditioning and GPS. Both include comprehensive insurance and unlimited mileage inside Rwanda.
When the Prado is the right choice
For most self drive safaris in Rwanda, the Prado is the sweet spot. It handles Akagera's tracks, the Lake Kivu shore road, trailhead tracks near Kinigi and the rainy months with confidence, while staying easy to drive and park in Kigali. It uses noticeably less fuel than the full size Cruiser over a two week trip.
- Couples and families of up to five with luggage.
- A full Rwanda circuit including Akagera.
- March to May or October to November travel.
- Camping trips with a rooftop tent.
When the full size Land Cruiser is worth it
- Serious Akagera game driving. Days on the northern plains, especially after rain, are where the full size Cruiser's clearance and toughness show.
- Six to eight people. It seats eight and carries luggage for more people than the Prado.
- Heavy rain. In the wettest weeks, it is the most capable car on any route.
- Uganda. For cross border trips to Bwindi, the roads beyond the border reward the extra capability.
- Peace of mind. Some travellers simply want the toughest car available on a once in a lifetime trip, and that is a fair reason.
Driving a Land Cruiser in Rwanda: what to expect
In Kigali
The Prado handles city streets without fuss. The full size Land Cruiser is wide for narrow market lanes and tight hotel car parks, so plan parking ahead and leave it at the hotel for evenings out.
On the highways
Both are stable and comfortable on long paved drives, and the high seating position gives you a clear view over the bends and the traffic ahead.
Off the tarmac
Low range gearing is the reason to rent either car. Engage it before a steep, muddy or rocky section, not halfway up. We show you how at handover, and it takes a minute to learn.
Fuel
Bigger engines use more fuel, the full size Cruiser most of all. Fill up whenever you pass a station before Akagera, the Lake Kivu shore road or the border.
With a rooftop tent
A tent adds height, so watch for low branches on lodge roads and low roofs at fuel stations.
The pop up roof option
If game viewing in Akagera is the heart of your trip and you would rather someone else drove, consider the Toyota Safari with a pop up roof at USD 200 per day including a driver. It seats nine and lets everyone stand to photograph over the grass. See safari vehicle rental.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Land Cruiser rental in Rwanda?
USD 110 per day, or USD 650 per week, for a Toyota Land Cruiser and USD 75 per day, or USD 450 per week, for a Land Cruiser Prado, with insurance and unlimited mileage inside Rwanda included.
Is the Prado good enough for Akagera?
Yes, for most visitors and most conditions. The full size Land Cruiser is the better tool for long days on the northern plains after heavy rain.
Can I rent a Land Cruiser with a rooftop tent?
Yes. Rooftop tent and camping kits can be added. See camping and overland self drive.
Is a Land Cruiser necessary for gorilla trekking?
No. A Prado is ideal, and a RAV4 is adequate in the dry season.
Tell us your group size, route and month and we will tell you which Cruiser you need. Call or WhatsApp +250 788 504 614. See also Land Cruiser rental Rwanda and Toyota Prado rental Rwanda.
