Safety in Rwanda
How safe is a trip to Rwanda?
How safe is a trip to Rwanda?
Today, Rwanda is considered one of the safest travel destinations in Africa. The small, green country has developed remarkably over the past few decades – politically stable, with a well-developed infrastructure and warm people who greet visitors openly. Walking through Kigali or traveling through the mountainous landscapes, one experiences a country that radiates calm and order.
Nevertheless, it is worth informing yourself about the current security situation in Rwanda before traveling. In this article, you will learn which regions are particularly calm, what to look out for in cities and national parks, and what practical tips can help you stay safe while on the move. With cautious behavior and some preparation, nothing stands in the way of a carefree Rwanda trip .
General security situation in Rwanda
Rwanda is considered politically stable and well organized. For many years, a reliable government has ensured security, economic growth, and a functioning administration. Visitors benefit from well-maintained roads, visible police presence, and a high degree of order – especially in the capital, Kigali.
The crime rate is low compared to other African countries. Violent crimes against tourists are rare; however, minor offenses such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in busy places or on public transport.
In the west and north of the country – around Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu – travel is unproblematic. The situation at the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, on the other hand, can change occasionally. Current advisories from the Foreign Office should therefore be checked before traveling.
Current security advisories
Rwanda is considered a stable and safe travel destination; however, the security situation, especially in border regions, can change at short notice. It is therefore worthwhile to check the current recommendations from the Foreign Office before departure.
- The Foreign Office currently advises against unnecessary travel to the border area with the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the regions along the border, there may occasionally be tensions or armed confrontations.
- Increased caution is also advisable at the border with Burundi and to some extent with Uganda. Tourist trips to these areas are generally possible but should be well prepared and conducted with official transfers.
- All national parks – including Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park – are considered safe. Activities take place exclusively in the company of trained rangers.
- Current information can be found anytime on the website of the Foreign Office.
Overview: Security situation by region
| Region | Assessment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kigali & Central Highlands | very safe | Clean, orderly capital with visible police presence. Use taxis or hotel transfers at night. |
| Volcanoes National Park (North) | safe | Guided tours recommended. No independent hikes near the border. |
| Lake Kivu & West | safe | The region around Gisenyi and Kibuye is well-developed for tourism. Do not go out alone at night. |
| Nyungwe National Park (Southwest) | safe | One of the best-protected parks in the country. Hikes are only allowed with a guide, which provides additional safety. |
| Akagera National Park (East) | safe | The park is fenced and strictly guarded. Safaris should only be undertaken with a guide or in official park vehicles. |
| Border area with the D.R. Congo | restricted | Border crossings are only possible at official crossings. Avoid day trips to Goma and pay attention to current advisories from the Foreign Office. |
Tip: Stay informed about the current situation before your trip – preferably through the Foreign Office or through your travel advisory from Safari Memories.
Safety in cities
In Rwanda's cities, especially in Kigali, travelers generally feel very safe. The capital is considered one of the cleanest and most orderly cities in Africa: modern, tidy, and with a noticeable police presence. Anyone who looks around quickly realizes that respect and mutual consideration are part of everyday life. Violent crimes against tourists are extremely rare.
Nevertheless, caution is always advisable. Valuables should not be carried openly, and cash is best kept in the hotel safe. After dark, it is safer to use registered taxis or a hotel transfer rather than motorcycle taxis or public buses.
Even in smaller towns like Musanze, Huye, or Rubavu (by Lake Kivu), the atmosphere is calm and friendly. Those who remain attentive, behave respectfully, and heed the advice of locals will also feel well taken care of away from the capital.
Behavior tips for Kigali & other cities
| Situation | Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valuables & Money | Only take what's necessary and store it discreetly | Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants |
| Out at night | Order taxis through the hotel or an app | Avoid public transport after dark |
| Photography | Ask people for permission beforehand | Do not photograph government buildings, military facilities, and police officers |
| Clothing | Neat and discreet – overly revealing clothing appears inappropriate. Do not carry valuables openly. | In Kigali and larger cities, casual clothing is still perfectly acceptable |
| Drinking water & hygiene | Only drink bottled water | Tap water is not safe for consumption, not even for brushing teeth |
Tip: Kindness is greatly appreciated in Rwanda. A short "Muraho" (Hello) or "Murakoze" (Thank you) almost always brings a smile – and often opens more doors than a large banknote.
Safety in national parks & tourist areas
The national parks of Rwanda are among the safest in Eastern Africa. All protected areas are state-managed, the presence of rangers is high, and procedures for visitors are clearly regulated. Those who adhere to the guides' instructions travel extremely safely – no matter whether during gorilla trekking in Rwanda, on safari, or on a hike through the rainforest.
In the Volcanoes National Park in the north, rangers accompany every tour. The groups are small, and all paths are checked daily. Proximity to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo is unproblematic as long as one stays within the park boundaries.
A high level of security also applies in the Nyungwe National Park in the southwest. Visitors may only move in the company of a guide, which serves not only for orientation but also for the protection of wildlife.
In the Akagera National Park in the east, game drives are only allowed with licensed guides or in official park vehicles. The area is fenced and strictly monitored – poaching has practically ceased to be an issue here for years.
Around Lake Kivu travelers also feel safe. Boat tours should only be undertaken with registered providers, and nighttime crossings should be avoided.
Tip: Guided tours and transfers are not only safer, but often also the most enjoyable way to get to know the country. The guides are excellently trained and share their knowledge about nature and culture with great passion.
Cultural aspects & social behavior
Rwanda is a country that places great value on politeness, restraint, and mutual respect. Those who behave calmly, kindly, and respectfully will be welcomed everywhere with open arms. Loud or intrusive behavior is considered impolite.
In cities and in rural areas, neat, understated clothing is appreciated. Shoulders and knees should be covered – especially in smaller places. In Kigali, casual clothing is no problem; however, a well-groomed appearance always seems appropriate.
Photography is generally allowed, but one should politely ask people for permission beforehand. Public buildings, police stations, and military facilities must not be photographed.
Rwanda is proud of its development and its history, which should be treated sensitively. Conversations about the genocide are not taboo - a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial conveys a deep understanding of the history, but should be conducted with empathy and respect.
Safety in transport, with finances & fraud protection
Rwanda is easy and safe to travel; further information on health precautions can be found under Vaccinations Rwanda. The roads are paved, traffic in cities like Kigali is orderly, and transfers between national parks run reliably and can be organized within one of our Rwanda round trips. Nevertheless, it is advisable to avoid traveling at night, especially outside urban areas.
Traveling in Rwanda:
- For longer distances, it is advisable to have a driver or an organized transfer – self-driving is possible but unusual.
- In Kigali, taxis and ride services through Yego Moto are the safest choice. Motorcycle taxis are widespread but should only be used with a helmet and preferably during the daytime.
- In smaller towns, rides with private drivers or vehicles from lodges are common.
Handling money:
- Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and safari lodges, while cash (Rwandan Francs or sometimes USD) is common in rural areas.
- ATMs work reliably in Kigali and larger cities, but it is advisable to keep a small cash reserve.
- Valuables should be placed in the safe or kept out of sight – better to avoid large bills and expensive watches.
Caution & fraud protection:
- Pickpocketing is rare but does occur in busy places – always carry money and your phone close to your body.
- Street vendors are friendly but persistent. A polite "No, thank you" is usually sufficient.
- Avoid excessive offers of help from strangers at bus stations or ATMs.
Behavior in emergencies
In emergencies, embassies and consulates are important points of contact for travelers in Rwanda. They provide support for urgent problems such as loss of documents, illnesses, or fraud cases and should be noted as contact options before the trip.
German Embassy Kigali
Address: KN 27 St No. 5, Kiyovu, Kigali
Phone: +250 280 57 52 22
FAQ: Safety in Rwanda
Yes. Rwanda is now considered one of the safest countries in Africa. The political situation is stable, crime is low, and travelers are warmly welcomed throughout the country.
Kigali is exceptionally clean, well-organized, and safe. Especially in central neighborhoods, travelers can move about relaxed. At night, it is advisable to use taxis or hotel transfers.
Only the immediate border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo should be traversed with caution. All tourist regions – including national parks – are considered safe.
No, and that is a good thing. Visitors may only move in the park with a ranger or guide. This ensures that activities like gorilla trekking or safaris are well-organized and safe.
Violent crime is extremely rare. Occasionally, there are pickpocketing incidents in busy areas. Basic attention and common sense are quite sufficient.
In Kigali, the police are easily reachable and respond quickly. In case of loss of documents or other problems, your accommodation or the German embassy can also assist.
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