Is Rwanda safe to visit? When choosing a destination to visit in Africa, Rwanda is worth considering, as safety is rarely a major concern there. Rwanda is one of the safer destinations to visit in Africa, and the people of Rwanda are known for being welcoming to visitors. The country carries a heavy history, from the Rwandan Civil War to the 1994 genocide, but that history no longer defines it as a violent country today.
Individual safety should still be treated as a priority, which is why every visitor should choose a trusted tour company to avoid falling for common tourism scams. Rwanda is a beautiful country that shouldn’t be missed out of concern for safety.
Crime Rate in Rwanda
Like any other country in Africa and across the world, isolated crimes do occur in Rwanda.
However, the crime rate in the country is low compared to other African countries, and most crimes are not targeted at tourists.
Low level tourist scams can still happen, as they do in any other country that attracts tourists from around the world.
The Political Situation
Rwanda experienced one of the world’s worst episodes of mass violence through the genocide against the Tutsi people, in which over 800,000 people were killed over the course of 100 days in 1994.
Since then, Rwanda has undergone significant economic growth and development. The country has moved away from official recognition of ethnic identity, with people not permitted to identify themselves by tribe, though challenges around poverty remain.
The genocide remains a sensitive subject, and public discussion framed around ethnic divisions is restricted by law, out of concern that it could revive ethnic tensions.
Rwanda has seen substantial infrastructure development and expansion of healthcare and other public services in recent decades under President Paul Kagame’s government.
Border Situations
The most common way for international travelers to enter Rwanda is by air, through Kigali International Airport, which has regularly scheduled flights. Rwanda’s relationships with its neighbors are not always straightforward, but the country has generally maintained working relations with those immediately around it.
Entering by air is generally the more predictable option, helping travelers avoid the occasional friction that can arise at land borders, including disputes involving Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Entering through the border from DR Congo is not advisable at present, due to security conditions within that country that may pose risks to travelers. See our full Rwanda entry requirements guide for details on the safest routes in.
Safe Transport
The road network in Rwanda is good, though less developed outside major towns and cities. This is why it is worth booking your trip through a trusted tour operator who understands the road conditions and can take responsibility for your transportation.
Travelers can choose from a range of transport options: a solid bus network connects major cities, car hire services are available but not advisable without guidance from a tour operator, and licensed taxis are available at the airport. These taxis tend to be priced higher for tourists but are a more reliable way to reach your hotel or destination than local buses.
Rwanda is a rewarding country to visit on holiday, but it’s worth checking with your tour operator before taking any action you’re unsure about, since some activities may be restricted without visitors realizing it. To avoid trouble, don’t do something unless you’re confident it’s permitted. Book your Rwanda safari with a trusted operator to make sure every part of your trip, from entry to transport, is handled safely.
