Rwanda International Travel Information (2024)

Exercise normal precautions in Rwanda. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

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Embassy Messages

Alerts

U.S. Embassy Kigali
30 KG 7 Avenue
Kigali, Rwanda

Telephone: +250-252-596-400-7000 (Monday through Thursday, 8:15 a.m.to 5:30 p.m. andFriday from 8:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +250-252-596-400, and dial 1
Fax: +250-252-596-591
Emails:

• American Citizen Services: ACSKigali@state.gov
• Immigrant Visas: IVKigali@state.gov
• Non-Immigrant Visas: NIVKigali@state.gov

To receive Alerts and other information from the Embassy during your stay in Rwanda, please sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) online at step.state.gov.

Please visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 inRwanda.

Requirements for Entry:

• U.S. passports must be valid for six months afterthe date ofentry into Rwanda.
• Travelers can obtain a Rwandan visa through the following procedures:
  • Obtain a 30-daytourist visa at the port of entry for $50(single entry) or $70 (multiple entry). Credit cards are generally accepted at the Kigali International Airport but are not accepted at some land borders. The U.S. Embassy recommends that travelers arrive at the Kigali International Airport travel with sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for the visain casecredit card transactions are not possibleat the time of your arrival.Additional information about this process can be found on the Rwandan Immigration website.
  • Obtain30-day, 90-day, or 10-year tourist visathrough the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C.Additional information about this process can be found on the Rwandan Embassy’s website.
• Immunizations:World Health Organization (WHO) card with yellow fever vaccination if entering from the countrieslisted on the Rwandan Immigration website.

For information regarding the application process for a residency permit or work permit in Rwanda,please visit the Rwandan Immigration website.

Contact the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration in Kigali within 15 days of arrival to extend your visa, or apply online through the IREMBO site.

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Rwanda; however, the U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens enter the country on their U.S. passport.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Rwanda.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs information on our websites.

The U.S. Embassy advises all travelers to review the following information:

• Rwanda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)border, including parts of Volcanoes National Park: Tensions between Rwanda and DRC have been elevated since early 2022 with Rwanda and DRC accusing each other of supporting armed groups that pose security threats to the other. Multiple armed groups opposed to the Rwandan government operate in eastern DRC and have launched occasional incursions into Rwandan territory. Shells struck Rwandan territory in this area several times in 2022. Congolese armed forces and UN peacekeepers continue to conduct combat operations against rebels, militia, and ISIS-aligned groups in DRC’s North and South Kivu provinces, which abut Rwanda. Violence, rape, kidnapping, killing, pillaging, armed robbery, and roadside criminality occur in these areas and often target civilians.
• Rwanda-Burundiborder, including parts of Nyungwe National Park:Relations between Burundi and Rwanda are currently cordial but in previous years there have been incidents of cross-border incursions, armed clashes and attacks on civilian buses.
• Rwanda-Uganda border: Relations between Rwanda and Uganda are currently cordial but in previous years there have been elevated tensions in some areas along their shared land border.

Precautions:

• Avoid demonstrations and remain vigilant while traveling, especially outside of cities. Even peaceful gatherings can become violent.
• Exercise extreme caution in border areas as the border may not be clearly marked.
• Monitor local news and EmbassyAlerts.
• Obtain permits before entering Rwanda’s national parks.

Crime: Most reported incidents involve petty theft and residential and hotel room robberies. Burglars may break and enter, or domestic staff and residential security guards may permit them entry.

Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Do not display cash and valuables.
• Maintain caution in areas frequented by foreigners.
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
• Always carry a photocopy of your U.S. passport and visa. Keep original documents in a secure location.

International Financial Scams:See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime:If you are in immediate danger, your first call should be to the Rwandan police through theemergency hotline number 112.U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault shouldalsocontact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the Rwanda National Police at 078-831-1124 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 250-252-596-400. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written request
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in case of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Additional Resources:

• Kigali City emergency hotlinenumber is112. Be aware that victims are often directed to the nearest police station to register a complaint in person.
• The hotline number for traffic accidents is 113.
• The hotline number to report abuse or attempted bribery by a police officer is 116.
• See the complete list of police brigade numbers on Embassy Kigali’s website.
• Ambulances:
  • Emergency Medical Service (SAMU) 112
  • King Faisal Hospital +250 788-309-003

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are uncommon. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Additionally, ambulance services are limited and unreliable. Tourists participate in activities at their own risk. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for moreinformation on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local lawswhile in Rwanda. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

The police may detain you if you are not carrying an acceptable form of identification. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs (including marijuana) result in long prison sentences and heavy fines.

Furthermore, some offenses are also prosecutable in the UnitedStates, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See ourwebpagefor further information.

Local Attorneys: You can find a list of local attorneys on the U.S. Embassy’swebsite.

Genocide speech: Laws about appropriate speech regarding the 1994 genocide in Rwanda are strictly enforced. Promoting ideas based on “ethnic, regional, racial, religious, language, or other divisive characteristics” is prohibited. Public incitement of “genocide ideology” or “divisionism,” including genocide denial, discrimination, and sectarianism, is punishable by five tosevenyears in prison and fines of500,000 to 1,000,000 Rwandan francs. Please refer to the Rwandan Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement’s website for additional information regarding this topic.

Human Rights Observers, Journalists, NGO workers, and Students: Rwandan authorities may subject you to more scrutiny at immigration upon arrival if you meet or plan to meet with individuals or organizations who are critical of the government.

Photography: Photographing military sites, government buildings, airports, and public monuments is strictly prohibited.

Currency:  The Rwandan franc (RWF) is the official currency, though U.S. dollars may also be used. Most vendors and banks will only accept U.S. bills printed after 2009, and exchange bureaus and hotels may refuse bills smaller than $100.

Plastic shopping and grocery bags are banned and may be confiscated upon arrival.

Natural disasters:

• Rwanda is in a seismically active region, which includes MountNyiragongovolcano in Virunga National Park. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency: Earthquakes and at Ready.gov.
• During rainy seasonfrom February to May and September to December, Rwanda may experience heavy rains that lead toflooding and landslides. You can monitor weather warningson theRwanda Meteorology Agency website.

AkageraNational Park and Wildlife Areas:  Heed all instructions given by guides and trackers. Approaching wild animals, even in a vehicle, can result in injury or death.

Drones/Photography: A permit is required to fly a drone recreationally or commercially in Rwanda. Please visit the Rwandan Government’s Tourism website for additional information. Photographing military sites, government buildings, airports, and public monuments is prohibited. Travelers entering Rwanda with drones, must declare the drone upon arrival, will be subject to additional scrutiny, and will be asked to present their permit.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following web pages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report– see country reports
• Human Rights Report– see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Rwanda. However, LGBTQI+ individuals may face societal discrimination and abuse, including harassment by neighbors and police.

See ourLGBTQI+ Travel Informationpage and section six of ourHuman Rights Report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Rwandan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities, and the government generally enforces these provisions. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Access to transportation, lodging, and public buildings is limited, though newly constructed buildings in Kigali have improved facilities, including elevators. Sidewalks are notcommonoutside of Kigali and do not include curb-cuts.

Students: See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI travel tips.

Women Travelers:  Domestic violence is common. Although many incidents are not reported or prosecuted, government officials encourage its reporting. Call the Rwanda National Police hotline at 112. See our tips for Women Travelers.

Please visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 inRwanda.

Ambulance services are:

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.

Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills. U.S. Medicare/Medicaiddoes not apply overseas.Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Healthcare providers require payment in U.S. dollars/Rwandan francs before services are performed.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Seeour webpagefor more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventionfor more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging,along withyour doctor’s prescription. Check with the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority to ensure themedicationislegal in Rwanda. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, be the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on allvaccinations recommendedby the CDC. While the CDC does not generally recommend theyellow fevervaccination for travel to Rwanda, the U.S. Embassy recommends travelers bring proof of yellow fever vaccination. The Rwandan government retains the right to turn travelers without the immunization away, especially ifthe traveler has visited any of the countries on thislist.

Thefollowing diseases are prevalent inRwanda:

• African Tick-Bite Fever
• Chikungunya
• Dengue
• Hantavirus
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Leptospirosis
• Malaria
• Measles
• Rabies
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Typhoid
• Schistosomiasis
• Yellow Fever

Use CDC-recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Rwanda. The CDC recommends travelers avoidswimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

The U.S. Embassy maintains alist of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate health facilities are available inKigaliand other major cities but health care, especiallyin rural areas,may be below U.S. standards.
• Somepublic medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.

• While English is widely spoken in Rwanda, in certain areas in the country medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in publichospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, be the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought backinto the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit theU.S. Customs and Border Protectionand theFood and Drug Administrationwebsites for more information.
• Please reviewRwandanrules on medicationon the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority website.

Water Quality

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Food

• Locally available fruit and vegetables may be contaminated with disease-causing organisms. In addition, these items may also have been treated with pesticides. It is important that all fruits and vegetables be adequately cleaned and prepared before consumption.

Road Conditions and Safety:  Main roads between Kigali and other major towns are generally in good condition. Many secondary and unpaved roads are accessible by four-wheel drivevehicles butlack shoulders and become impassible during the rainy season, February to May and September to December, when flooding andmudslidesoccur. U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from driving outside of cities after dark. Street lighting is limited, and it is difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and roaming animals. Additional risks include:

• poor vehicle maintenance

• headlights that are extremely dim or not used
• excessive speeding
• absence of professional roadside assistance.

Traffic Laws:  An international driving permit and third-party insurance are required. For specific information concerning Rwandan driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, visit the website of the Rwanda Development Board.

Cell phone use while driving isillegal unlessit is fitted with a hands-free device. After-market tinted window treatments are prohibited on all vehicles.

Accidents:  Call the police and remain inside the vehicle until they arrive. If a hostile mob forms or you feel your safety is in danger, leave the scene and proceed directly to the nearest police station to report the incident. Do not stop at the scene of an accident or at intersections where people have gathered, as mobs can develop quickly.

Drivers are responsible for damages if involved in an accident resulting in injuries, even if the driver is not at fault.

Causing a fatal accident could result in up to eight years imprisonment.

Drunk drivers are jailed for at least 24 hours and fined up to $400.

Police roadblocks are common throughout the country. Travelers may be stopped, and vehicles and luggage searched.

Public Transportation:  Use only official Kigali city buses and licensed taxis, which are orange striped. Confirm the fare before departure. U.S. Embassy personnel are not permitted to use motorcycle-taxis or mini-bus taxis. They are unsafe due to overloading, reckless driving, inadequate maintenance, and the risk of petty crime. Reputable car services are available for hire. Travel agencies and local hotels may be able to arrange private transport on your behalf.

See ourRoad Safety pagefor more information. Visit the website ofRwanda’snational tourist officeandnational authorityresponsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Rwanda’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization aviation safety standards for oversight of Rwanda’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on theFAA’s safety assessment page.

Please see Fact Sheet for this country/area.