Want to learn about LGBTQ travel in Rwanda? Rwanda is one of the very few African states that are signatories of the United Nations joint statement condemning violence against LGBT individuals. This sets it apart from the rest of East Africa, including Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda. Rwanda is open to all kinds of travelers, and LGBT travelers can visit and explore the Land of a Thousand Hills.
Rwanda has long welcomed different kinds of visitors, including LGBT travelers. While in Rwanda, your sexual preferences and identity aren’t of interest to anyone else, they remain private to you. This is one reason Rwanda has become a favorable destination for all visitors, regardless of sexual orientation.
What Is the Attitude Towards LGBT Visitors in Rwanda Like?
While Rwanda’s stance on homosexuality is relatively open, and homosexuality itself is not illegal, it remains a topic many still regard as taboo, particularly in more conservative and remote areas. Urban centers have shown greater tolerance, with minimal reported cases of harassment or abuse.
Rwanda remains the only East African country with no anti-homosexuality laws, which has helped make it a favored destination for LGBT travelers. LGBT travel in Rwanda has been steadily increasing, with no significant challenges reported so far. Most accommodation facilities are welcoming and have generally not discriminated against travelers based on sexual orientation.
While on a Rwanda safari holiday, or anywhere else in East Africa, it’s generally advisable to keep this aspect of your life private and follow a “don’t ask” approach.
Society and Culture
Rwanda does not have laws that criminalize sexual orientation or consensual same sex acts. There have been no recorded cases of harassment or attacks on LGBT travelers, nor of such persons fleeing the country. A debate was held by the Rwandan government in 2009 to decide whether to criminalize homosexuality, and it concluded with no such law being passed.
However, same sex marriage remains illegal, as the Rwandan constitution only recognizes marriage between a man and a woman.
Best Places to Visit in Rwanda for LGBTQ Travelers
- Volcanoes National Park
- Nyungwe Forest National Park
- Kigali City
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park
- Akagera National Park
- Lake Kivu
- Rwandan genocide memorial sites
Key Activities to Do in Rwanda for LGBTQ Travelers
- Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
- Chimpanzee tracking
- Golden monkey trekking
- Cultural encounters and tours
- Birding and bird watching tours
- Nature walks
- Hiking or volcano climbing
- Kigali city tour
