Is Rwanda Safe for Tourists? An Honest Answer from Locals
Short answer: yes, remarkably so. Here's the nuance.
Eben Safari Tours Team2 min read
Crime
Violent crime against visitors is rare. Petty theft can happen in crowded places, so keep phones and wallets secure, especially at markets and bus stations.
Solo women travellers
Rwanda is one of the most comfortable countries in Africa for women travelling alone. Harassment is uncommon, and Rwanda has one of the world's highest proportions of women in parliament.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are not criminalised in Rwanda, though public displays of affection of any kind are uncommon. Discretion is advised.
Road safety
Roads are good and speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras. Hiring a driver-guide removes most of the stress. Motorbike taxis are common in Kigali; always wear the helmet provided.
Health
Malaria is present at lower altitudes; consult a travel doctor. Drink bottled water. Healthcare in Kigali is good for minor issues; travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential.
Border areas
Check your government's travel advice regarding the areas bordering the eastern DRC. Rwanda's tourist areas, including Rubavu and Volcanoes National Park, operate normally, and we monitor conditions continuously.
Written by the Eben Safari Tours team
We are a Kigali-based tour operator, guiding travellers through Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania since 2015. Our guides trek with the gorillas, drive Akagera and climb the volcanoes every week, and we update these guides whenever rules or prices change.
