Is Rwanda Safe? Your Guide to Travel Safety

IS RWANDA SAFE?: YES, YES, YES. Rwanda is a safe country. It is among the safest countries to visit in Africa whether on a solo or group organized tour. The ruling government has done all possible in to improve the country’s security state by encouraging reconciliation, healing and togetherness among the Rwandans after the unforgettable 1994 genocide. Now Rwanda ranks among the top safest countries in the world.

A lot of changes, reconstruction and developments have been done across the country in different areas like improvement of infrastructure and boosting of the country’s tourism industry with intense conservation efforts. Thousands of tourists now visit Rwanda each year to enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife peacefully and comfortably. International tourists have nothing to worry about.
All in all, just like in any other African country or foreign country, the visitor has to take personal safety seriously and take precaution while going up and about.

SAFETY TIPS WHILE IN RWANDA

Be vigilante especially when in crowded places like in the city center or the local market places. Do not walk around adorned in expensive jewelry, keep your valuable items safe back at your accommodation facility.
Acquire services of a registered tour operator to organize and plan for your Rwanda safari.
Be respectful of the locals by not taking their photos without their consent and dress moderately especially when in the rural areas and public places.
Avoid discussing anything concerning the 1994 genocide with the locals to avoid unpredictable behavior. Only if you are on a visit to one of the genocide memorial centers.
Rely on the guidance of your safari guide assigned to you by a reputable and licensed tour operator.
Follow the set park regulations set up by the park authorities for your own safety and that of the wildlife and preservation of the natural environment.
If you are on a self-drive safari, do not drink and drive.
Do not carry plastic bags to Rwanda, they were banned.
Acquire a medical and travel insurance to cover your time while in Rwanda.
You need a yellow fever vaccination if you travelling to Rwanda especially if you are from a risk country.
Take your ant-malarial medication prior to your visit to Rwanda and while in Rwanda, sleep under a mosquito net and use mosquito or insect repellents.
Do not drink tap water while in Rwanda.
Carry your personal simple travel first aid kit on your visit to Rwanda.
At the end of the day. Do follow the set laws in Rwanda to avoid uncalled for fines while on your safari. The law in Rwanda is very strict.