Is Rwanda safe? Uncovering the truth behind travel myths

When you think of Rwanda, what comes to mind? For some, it’s a country remembered for its tragic past. This small, landlocked nation in east-central Africa endured unimaginable ethnic strife, culminating in a government-sponsored genocide in the mid-1990s. In just one hundred days, perpetrators killed more than 800,000 people, leaving deep scars on the nation. Given its tragic history, particularly the 1994 genocide, many travellers wonder: Is Rwanda safe to visit today? But fast forward to today, the land of a thousand hills tells a very different story, one of resilience, safety, and progress! After decades of rebuilding, this East Central African country has become one of Africa’s safest nations. In 2025, it boasts a low crime index of 26.9, much lower than many other countries on the continent. This level of safety is thanks to strict law enforcement, effective policing, and strong community security efforts.

We’ll break down the myths and realities of travelling in Rwanda. From the vibrant, well-kept streets of Kigali to the serene beauty of Volcanoes National Park, we’ll explore what makes this beautiful country a unique and welcoming destination while offering practical tips to help you travel smart.

A beautiful landscape of the hills in Rwanda

Since the devastating genocide in the 1990s, Rwanda has been on a mission to rebuild itself, focusing on reconciliation, safety and economic development. However, the journey hasn’t been without controversy, widely because of the tight grip of the country’s long-time leader, President Paul Kagame. The genocide ended with the Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) claiming victory, and the RPF remains in power today under Kagame. He took office through an internal coup in 2000 and has been at the helm ever since. Many praise Kagame for the country’s remarkable development and stability, but his leadership style has raised eyebrows. He’s won all three elections he’s entered with over 90 per cent of the vote, though critics argue these elections aren’t exactly free or fair.

The president of Rwanda, Paul Kagame

Despite the political debates, Rwanda’s progress in recent years has been impressive. Its economy has grown by around 8 per cent annually for the past two decades, one of the best rates in Africa. The World Economic Forum even ranked Rwanda as the 7th most effective government in the world in 2015. Reforms aimed at building democratic, inclusive governance have played a key role in this success, as outlined in the constitution. The country has also incorporated traditional Rwandan practices into its development strategies, a concept known locally as “Home Grown Solutions.” Despite this, people are still uneasy and ask if Rwanda is a safe country to visit.

Agriculture, especially exports like tea and coffee, has played a massive role in Rwanda’s economic success, along with mineral extraction, tourism, and a sizeable public sector. In recent years, Rwanda has diversified its economy by boosting the tech sector and investing in skills development. Health outcomes have also improved dramatically. Community-based health insurance now covers about 90 per cent of residents, and life expectancy has doubled since the genocide. High rates of child mortality and HIV/AIDS, which plague many African countries, have fallen. Rwanda also tackled the COVID-19 pandemic with determination, achieving one of Africa’s highest vaccination rates and ramping up healthcare in rural areas.

Socially, Rwanda stands out too. The country leads the world in female representation in parliament, with women making up the majority of lawmakers. It also has the highest rate of kids staying in school on the continent, and it’s been a frontrunner on climate action, setting goals to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. But not everything is perfect. Some experts question the accuracy of Rwanda’s development stats, and there’s ongoing criticism around human rights. Women and LGBTQ+ communities, in particular, still face significant barriers to equality.

Rwandan military personnel accompany tourists on gorilla treks

Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa, renowned for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere. Kigali, the capital city, is known for its cleanliness, organised infrastructure, and friendly locals. The government prioritises security, maintaining a visible police presence and well-kept public spaces. Visitors can comfortably explore popular destinations like the Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu. As with any travel, it’s wise to take basic precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings, but overall, Rwanda’s reputation as a safe and peaceful destination is well-deserved.

The African country has established itself as a global leader in peacekeeping and security, making significant contributions to United Nations missions and international safety standards. Since 2004, Rwanda has been the fourth largest contributor of troops and police to the UN, deploying over 5,000 personnel, including the most female police officers among all contingents. These dedicated Rwandan troops and police serve in seven UN missions, including the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) — where Rwanda was the first to deploy peacekeepers — as well as missions in South Sudan, Haiti, Liberia, Abyei, Côte d’Ivoire, and Guinea-Bissau.

Silhouette of arms raised, waving a Rwanda flag with pride

Rwanda’s commitment to safety is also evident at home. In 2024, it was recognised as the safest country in Africa, scoring approximately 73.2 points on the safety index — the highest on the continent, with the lowest crime incidents and the only African nation with high safety levels (over 60 index points). Almost 92 per cent of residents expressed confidence in the local police force. Rwanda consistently ranks highly in global safety and security indices. Gallup’s Law and Order Index listed Rwanda among the world’s safest countries for walking alone at night. The Global Competitiveness Index recognised it as one of the top seven countries globally with a very low incidence of crime and violence affecting businesses. Gallup’s Law and Order Index listed Rwanda among the world’s safest countries for walking alone at night. The Global Competitiveness Index recognised it as one of the top seven countries globally with a very low incidence of crime and violence affecting businesses.

Moreover, the International Police Science Association (IPSA) and the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) ranked Rwanda’s Police Services as the second best in Africa. Rwanda’s dedication to peacekeeping goes beyond deployment; it also advocates for global standards of civilian protection. Following a High-Level International Conference on Protection of Civilians in Kigali in 2015, Rwanda, alongside Italy, the Netherlands, Uruguay, and Uganda, endorsed the Kigali Principles. These principles affirm that protecting civilians is the core function of peacekeeping and stress the need for well-trained troops, adequate equipment, and strong political commitment. Rwanda calls on other core troop and police contributing countries to support these principles, reinforcing collective efforts to protect civilians and foster peace worldwide.

When planning a trip to Rwanda, many travellers ask, "Is Rwanda a safe country to visit?" or "Is it safe to travel to Rwanda?" Questions like these are common, but these concerns often stem from misconceptions. Let’s address these pressing questions and set the record straight on whether Rwanda is a safe country to explore today.

Rwanda dancers at the Kwita Izina ceremony

Reality: Despite its turbulent past, Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s safest destinations. The country’s political stability, low crime rate, and efficient emergency response system make it a relatively secure place for visitors. It is safe to travel to Rwanda, and staying informed and cautious is always advisable when travelling. Rwanda’s welcoming atmosphere and safety record make it a popular choice for tourists. As with any destination, being mindful of your surroundings and making wise decisions is key to a safe experience.

Reality: Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, ranks among Africa’s safest cities. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or vehicle theft are rare and occur in busy markets, bus stations and other public spaces. You can reduce this risk by keeping your belongings secure, and being aware of your surroundings helps. If you’re looking for safe and modern neighbourhoods to stay in while visiting Kigali, here are some top choices:

Reality: Rwanda has made significant strides toward stability since the 1994 genocide. While staying informed about the political landscape is vital, the country has remained peaceful for decades. The government’s proactive approach to maintaining security in public spaces contributes to a sense of safety. To ensure a positive experience, it’s best to avoid political discussions or activities, particularly in sensitive settings.

Solo travel can be daunting, especially when visiting a country with a complex history. So, is it safe to travel to Rwanda alone? Absolutely. Rwanda’s reputation as a safe destination extends to solo adventurers as well. Locals are friendly and hospitable in Kigali and other tourist hotspots, and petty crime is relatively rare. As with any travel, it’s wise to stay alert and follow basic safety precautions, but overall, Rwanda’s safety record speaks for itself.

Rwanda is generally a healthy destination, but taking a few precautions can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s what you need to know to stay healthy while visiting this majestic country.

It’s essential to consult a travel health specialist 4–6 weeks before your trip to Rwanda. This consultation will allow you to receive personalised recommendations based on your specific itinerary, activities, medical history, and risk factors. For the most current and detailed information, refer to official sources like the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). These resources offer comprehensive guidance on vaccinations, disease prevention, and staying healthy during your trip.

Malaria occurs in Rwanda’s lower‐altitude areas like Kigali, Akagera National Park and parts of Nyungwe Forest. If you plan to visit these regions, talk to your doctor or a travel clinic before you go there. They may recommend prophylactic medication and other preventive measures.

Read more here: Rwanda Malaria: Risks, Prevention, and Expert Travel Tips

Besides routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), consider additional vaccines recommended for travel to Rwanda:

Medical facilities in Rwanda, especially outside of Kigali, can be limited. In the case of a serious accident or illness, you may require an air ambulance evacuation to countries like Kenya or South Africa for advanced medical treatment.

It’s crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation, as private health insurance may not be valid in Rwanda. Travel health insurance is compulsory for all international travellers. Reliable providers include:

Call 112 for an ambulance in a medical emergency. Notify your insurance provider immediately when your doctor refers you to a medical facility.

Here is an overview of the diplomatic representations in Kigali and their available emergency services:

Be Prepared: Save key embassy contacts before your trip, carry copies of important travel documents, and consider registering with your embassy’s traveller program.

Rwanda is a vibrant, welcoming country that’s made great strides in development, healthcare, and safety. Most travellers find the country safe and incredibly rewarding to explore. From lush national parks and bustling cities to the genuine warmth of the Rwandan people, this remarkable country offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Travel responsibly, be prepared, and embrace the adventure in the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” At Follow Alice, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable journey to Rwanda, customised to your interests and comfort. Let us guide you in discovering the very best of this captivating country, with local insights and expert advice.

Ready to experience Rwanda's safety for yourself? Reach out to Follow Alice today!