Is Rwanda safe to visit? You do not have to worry about safety in Rwanda. The country is very safe for tourism and other purposes. Rwanda, a relatively stable and secure country, is located in the heart of Africa, bordered by Uganda and D.R. Congo on one side and Tanzania and Burundi on the other. For a long time now, Rwanda has been considered the safest destination in Africa and worldwide, offering visitors great safari experiences and exceeding their expectations.
Rwanda, known as the famous “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is renowned for its abundant flora and rich fauna, from the endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to the primate-rich Nyungwe Forest National Park, and diverse wildlife in Akagera National Park, along with the vibrant and organized city of Kigali.
The country is truly a paradise for nature and adventure lovers, accessible year-round! Despite Rwanda’s turbulent past, including pre-colonial civil wars and the genocide tragedy in 1994, the country has emerged as a testament to peace, safety, and security among African nations.
Gorilla Trekking Safety
Rwanda’s main attraction is undoubtedly the mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park in the northwest is the most visited park in Rwanda. Safety in this national park is of utmost importance. Various safety measures are in place not only to protect the mountain gorillas but also to ensure the safety of visitors.
During a gorilla trekking tour, all visitors are accompanied by armed rangers to ensure their safety while navigating the forest. This is to protect against bandits, wild animal encounters, rebels, or potential physical injuries. Controlled tourism, such as limiting the number of trekkers to eight per group, helps minimize the risk of spreading diseases to the mountain gorillas.
Diseases & Health Safety
Like most sub-Saharan countries, Rwanda is susceptible to common tropical diseases, with malaria being the most prevalent. The Rwandan government has implemented stringent measures to reduce and eliminate malaria. Travelers are advised to vaccinate themselves before visiting Rwanda and to use insect/mosquito repellents in malaria-prone areas. Rwanda is free from dangerous epidemics such as Ebola and cholera.
The Rwandan Genocide
The Rwandan genocide in 1994 was one of the most horrific events in Rwanda’s history. Following the assassination of then Rwandan President Juvenile Habyarimana’s plane, Hutu extremists launched a civil war targeting Tutsis, who were blamed for the president’s death. During this period, over 1 million Tutsis were brutally killed, and millions more were displaced, families were torn apart, and travel and tourism came to a halt, especially in central and northern Rwanda.
Since then, Rwanda has undergone significant political changes, and the government has worked to ensure safety and promote tourism. Efforts to educate the population and reassure the international community have transformed Rwanda into a safe haven for tourists and Rwandans alike.
Traffic & Road Safety in Rwanda
Most roads in Rwanda are well-tarmacked, including those leading to national parks and other tourist destinations. However, some roads pass through steep mountains, which can make them slippery and poorly lit. The recommended speed limit in Rwanda is 40 km/h to prevent accidents and skidding.
Public transportation in Rwanda, such as motorcycles in Kigali and buses for longer distances, is generally safe. However, it’s advisable to avoid traveling at night. Women and solo travelers can safely use public transportation throughout the country.
While travelers to Rwanda should always follow safety precautions recommended by their respective countries, Rwanda is generally safe and can be explored with confidence.
