Rwanda is the Land of a Thousand Hills, and it actually lives up to the name.
The country sits in East Africa’s Great Rift region, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with rolling green highlands that seem to stretch forever.
Its past is deeply marked by the 1994 genocide, a tragedy the country faced head-on with reconciliation efforts that continue to shape its identity and resilience.
Today, Rwanda is known for much more than its history.
About 1.4 million travelers came in 2024 to experience its national parks, cultural sites, and lively cities.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the headline adventure, but visitors also flock to Akagera for classic safaris and to Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks.
Lake Kivu draws people looking for scenic downtime, with boat rides and quiet lakefront towns.
Kigali itself offers art, food, and museums that show how far Rwanda has come.
It’s a country where modern progress and natural beauty meet, and the result is a destination that feels both grounded and unforgettable.
Let’s help you get prepared for a safe trip to Rwanda, and make sure to read the places to avoid, as it could overlap with some of your travel plans.
Warnings & Dangers in Rwanda
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Rwanda is generally considered a low-risk country for travelers, but there are some areas to avoid and critical safety information to know. We'll detail that as we go through this article.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transport and taxis carry a low risk, but do your research. Licensed taxis and reputable ride-hailing apps are reliable, but road conditions in rural areas can be challenging. If you hire a driver or join a tour, make sure they are from a trusted company.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Pickpocketing is a low risk in most parts of Rwanda. Crowded markets or bus stations are the main places to watch your bag, so keep valuables secured and avoid leaving phones or wallets in easy reach. Despite some more serious warnings we'll discuss, petty crime is pretty low.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Natural disasters present a low risk in Rwanda. There are no frequent hurricanes or earthquakes, but seasonal heavy rains can trigger localized flooding or landslides. Checking conditions during rainy months is enough to plan around it.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Mugging is a low risk for visitors. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and most areas travelers frequent are wellpatrolled. Basic precautions like not walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods are still smart.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
The terrorism risk in Rwanda itself is considered low, and there have been no major incidents targeting visitors in Kigali or the country’s main tourist regions. The nuance is that some border areas near the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi have conflict and rebel activity, but those aren’t places most visitors go.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams are a medium risk, mainly involving overcharging or unofficial guides near tourist spots. Always agree on prices in advance, use official tour operators, and avoid giving personal details to strangers offering unsolicited help.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Rwanda is a low-risk destination for women traveling alone or in groups. Local people are generally respectful, and harassment is uncommon. Dressing modestly outside of Kigali and using common sense when out late further reduces any issues.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium to high risk. The U.S. State Department says that tap water isn't drinkable in many places. You might have better luck in tourist areas, but to err on the side of caution, stick with sealed bottled water for drinking.
Safest Places to Visit in Rwanda
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) runs the website visitrwanda.com.
We suggest sticking with this website since the government backs it.
That means tour companies and other vendors are more trusted than random websites you might find online.
Rwanda’s cultural heritage is woven throughout each stop, with local craft markets, dance performances, and historic churches adding depth to your itinerary.
It’s a compact country, but each destination feels unique.
Kigali is the starting point for most travelers.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a powerful and moving museum, and the city itself has a growing art and dining scene that gives you a feel for modern Rwandan culture.
From there, many visitors head to Volcanoes National Park.
This is where you can book a permit to track mountain gorillas, one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters in the world.
Golden monkey treks are also offered in the same region, and they’re a great add-on.
Akagera National Park offers a very different landscape.
It’s a savanna ecosystem with classic safari wildlife like elephants, lions, and giraffes.
Guided game drives here are easy to arrange and often surprise people with how abundant the wildlife is.
If you want to experience a lush rainforest, Nyungwe Forest National Park is the place.
Chimpanzee trekking is the headline activity, but the canopy walk and birding opportunities are also worth the trip.
Lake Kivu makes a great stop between parks.
The lakefront towns of Karongi and Rubavu have laid-back resorts, boat tours, and chances to kayak or paddleboard with views of the hills.
If you plan on visiting any of the national parks, please keep reading the safety information because there are some critical things to know.
Places to Avoid in Rwanda
The government advisories from major countries like the United States and Australia detail the places to avoid.
As of mid-2025, here’s a breakdown.
Avoid non-essential travel (Level 3) to parts of Rubavu and Rusizi districts near the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This includes Gisenyi, Rusizi town, Kamembe Airport, and any Rwandan islands on Lake Kivu within 10 kilometers of the DRC border.
These areas see instability linked to rebel groups across the border.
Use extra caution in Volcanoes National Park near the DRC border.
Boundaries are not always obvious, and armed groups in neighboring Virunga Park can be a threat.
Be aware that Nyungwe Forest National Park borders Burundi.
Tensions between the two countries remain, and there have been cross-border incidents.
Lastly, do not travel (Level 4) along the immediate borders with either Burundi or the DRC.
Those zones have a history of armed activity and poor border markings, even if they overlap with otherwise popular parks.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Rwanda
- Rwanda National Police handles everyday safety and tourist issues. There isn’t a separate tourist police unit, but officers in major areas are used to helping visitors. For emergencies, call 112 for police assistance or medical help. Keep your hotel’s front desk number handy, as they can help you reach the right local authorities quickly.
- Rwanda doesn’t have a big public alert system like some countries, but local radio, hotel staff, and official government accounts on social media share important updates. Follow Rwanda’s Ministry of Emergency Management online and check with your embassy for advisories. Staying connected through a local SIM card helps you get updates faster.
- Foreign nationals can drive in Rwanda with a valid license from their home country, along with an international driving permit. Road conditions vary, so confidence in handling narrow or unpaved roads is a must. Always carry your documents because checkpoints are common. Hiring a local driver is often easier if you’re heading outside Kigali.
- Yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re arriving from a country with a risk of transmission, and proof may be checked at entry. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine boosters are strongly recommended. Many travelers also take malaria precautions.
- Kinyarwanda is the official language, and you’ll hear it everywhere, but English and French are also widely used. In Kigali and major tourist hubs, most hotel staff, guides, and drivers speak good English. Rural areas may require more patience and hand gestures, but people are generally eager to help.
- Rwanda has very strict laws about how you talk about the 1994 genocide. Denial, divisive comments, or promoting any ethnic or regional hatred can lead to serious charges, with heavy fines and prison time. Be respectful in conversations, especially in public settings, and avoid political debates about sensitive history.
- If you’re a journalist, NGO worker, student, or human rights observer, expect more questions at immigration. Meeting with groups critical of the government can draw attention. It’s not a ban, but you should have your paperwork in order and be ready to explain your trip’s purpose calmly and clearly.
- Rwanda has a strict ban on plastic shopping bags. Customs officers may confiscate them at the airport, and fines are possible. Bring reusable totes or fabric bags instead. Many shops provide paper alternatives, and this policy keeps the country impressively clean, so plan ahead to avoid issues on arrival.
- Local produce is fresh and tempting, but wash it carefully before eating. Some items may carry bacteria or have been treated with strong pesticides. Peel when possible, avoid raw garnishes in roadside spots, and stick to cooked foods if you’re unsure. A little caution helps you dodge stomach trouble.
- You’ll need a park permit from the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks before entry. Hiring a guide from a trusted company makes navigating much easier and safer. Always stay on marked trails, both to protect the environment and to avoid getting lost in areas with wildlife.
So... How Safe Is Rwanda Really?
While the travel advisories from various governments seem to be a little all over the place, they all essentially say the same thing.
First, it’s important to note that most countries will rank on a four-tiered risk scale.
One is the lowest risk; four is the highest.
For Rwanda, the United States lists it at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
That’s due to the risk of “armed violence.”
That risk goes up in several areas, as we detailed in the Places to Avoid in Rwanda section.
For the United Kingdom, the FDCO only mentions the highest risk areas as “avoid all but essential travel,” which is equivalent to Level 3.
Australia and Canada each list Rwanda as a Level 1, which means exercising normal safety steps.
All but essential travel is listed for the Rusizi and Rubavau Districts, near the border.
You’ll definitely want to check these advisory levels before you confirm your trip.
How Does Rwanda Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Rwanda | 37 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers can get a visa on arrival in Rwanda or apply online through the e-visa system, which is quick and straightforward. The East Africa Tourist Visa is also an option if you plan to visit Uganda or Kenya on the same trip. Always double-check entry rules before you fly.
Currency
Rwanda uses the Rwandan franc, and cash is still king outside the cities. ATMs are common in Kigali but scarce in rural areas, so plan ahead. Credit cards work in some hotels and restaurants, though smaller businesses prefer cash. Always carry smaller bills for markets and taxis.
Weather
Rwanda sits near the equator, so it stays mild year-round. Expect two rainy seasons, from March to May and October to December. Dry months are best for wildlife viewing, especially gorilla trekking. Even in the dry season, bring a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings in the highlands.
Airports
Kigali International Airport is the main entry point and is impressively efficient compared to many regional hubs. Domestic flights are limited, so most travel within the country is by road.
Travel Insurance
Do not skip travel insurance for Rwanda. Medical care can be basic outside Kigali, and evacuation costs can be high if something serious happens. A good policy also covers trip cancellations, lost bags, and any gear for gorilla trekking or safaris. Read the fine print so you know what’s covered.
Rwanda Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
26 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Low °C |
15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 |
| High °F |
79 | 81 | 79 | 77 | 77 | 79 | 81 | 82 | 81 | 79 | 79 | 79 |
| Low °F |
59 | 61 | 61 | 59 | 59 | 59 | 57 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 59 |
I COULD LIVE THERE.
After my experience in Nigeria Rwanda feels like a heaven.
Safe
Rwanda Is Safe
Safe
I agree. It is surely one of the safest countries in Africa.
RWANDA=SAFE
GOOGLE SAYS ITS THE SAFEST AFRICAN COUNTRY I CO-AGREE
Mongoloid
Safest African country. The keyword is African. Africa is the least safe continent you mongoloid.
Hotel Rwanda
This country sucks donkey balls. Go to Asia or something. What are you even doing in Africa?
Ur weird
Rwanda is so safe I thnk you’re wrong.
Safer than you would think
Rwanda was safer than I expected. It´s not called the Singapore of Africa for nothing, as the streetscapes of Kigali are actually clean and the landscapes are exceptionally beautiful. I recommend Rwanda for all kinds of travellers!
Beautiful
Rwanda is exceptionally beautiful country and the climate is almost perfect.
Safer than you would think
Rwanda was safer than I expected. It´s not called the Singapore of Africa for nothing, as the streetscapes of Kigali are actually clean and the landscapes are exceptionally beautiful. I highly recommend Rwanda for all kinds of travellers!
Don't believe everything you read on the internet!
I lived in many countries but no country has made me safe like Rwanda! And I never saw the temper in Rwanda go below 17 degrees. The writer suggesting 7 degrees shows how fake his info are especially being a country close to the equator!
I visited Kigali Rwanda in late 2019 before Covid. I was traveling at a solo traveler senior citizenound. I found it to be safer than most U.S. cities. It is extremely clean and the areas near the converntion center are well lighted. Kigali is a beautiful green city which has shown much progress since the Genocide. I used an independent taxi system recommened by web sources and the airbng where I stayed. The only problem I encountered was, as is true in many African countries, there is a much slower pace about doing things. I strongly suggest you look at current YouTube videos on Rwanda/Kigali to get a true picture of what it has to offer.
Quite safe, even during the night
Rwanda is the first and only African country I’ve had the pleasure of visiting so far..
Gorilla trekkings are an absolute must, I felt like Jane Goodall, amazing creatures! They cost quite a lot but this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I had to do some digging before booking as I wanted to make sure I won’t get ripped off. Golden Rwanda Safaris checked all the boxes and indeed, the level of professionalism was worth the extra money.
Regardless why you’re visiting Rwanda, never go out on your own, especially in the jungle. While the most frequent incidents in touristy areas are minor petty thefts no one can guarantee your safety in the wilderness of the jungle.
They have a rather low crime rate, this is why you always see Rwanda pop up as a very safe country. I’m no expert so this is just my personal opinion, but just like with any other countries, the driving force behind almost all criminal incidents seems to be the fact that this is a very poor country.
I always do a bit of research before visiting a new country and I think this should be a must for everyone. I knew they have a very clean country but it never crossed my mind that they could fine you if you have a plastic bag in your luggage. I appreciate the intention but I think this might be taking it one step too far, just asking me to throw it away would be enough.
The locals were a mix of friendly and kinda not wanting us there. It’s a lottery, as with a lot of other countries. However, we don’t tend to engage in conversations by ourselves so I wouldn’t count this as a drawback.
Kigali is known for its colorful nightlife, we’ve spent several nights partying until the morning hours without witnessing anything other than the usual public intoxications.
Rwanda is the 9th Safe country in the world currently!
Rwanda is very safe
for this I’m not agree with you
So… How Safe Is Rwanda Really?
came and see