Rwanda

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for emergency services.
• Dial 912 for ambulance services.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

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. 
• Burglaries and home break-ins are common.
• Foreigners are targeted for crimes of opportunity like petty theft, pickpocketing, and muggings.
• Street criminals, aggressive vendors, and panhandlers frequently target foreigners in crowded areas, markets, and when exiting the airport in Kigali.
• Risk of crime increases at night. Do not walk alone after dark or in isolated areas.

Safety tips:

• Keep a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places, tourist areas, and crowded locations.
• Arrange to be met at the airport by hotel personnel or business contacts.
• Always keep car doors locked to prevent carjacking and vehicle intrusions.
• Only roll car windows down enough to communicate when necessary.
• Always carry identification, such as a photocopy of your passport and visa or residence permit

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams are common in Rwanda. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. If you are in immediate danger, call the Rwandan police emergency hotline at 112. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 078-831-1124. 

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world.

Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• It is illegal to photograph military sites, government buildings, airports, and public monuments.

Drones

• A permit is required to fly a drone recreationally or commercially in Rwanda. Travelers entering Rwanda with drones must declare the drone upon arrival. Visit the Rwandan Government’s Tourism website for more information. 

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Gorilla Tracking in the Musanze District

• The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and security forces maintain a robust presence in Volcanoes National Park. Most major tourism infrastructure is located outside of the high-risk zone along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This includes the Kinigi Park Headquarters and the city of Musanze itself. Travelers visiting Volcanoes National Park should use RDB-sanctioned treks with licensed guides.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information about  Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and may even be convicted of a crime.
• 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) may result in long prison sentences and heavy fines. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Rwanda seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notifications

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Rwanda.
• Gay and lesbian individuals may face societal discrimination and abuse, including harassment by neighbors and police. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Rwanda prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is generally enforced.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, most lodging facilities, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• General public sentiment around disability is not as accepting as in the United States.
• Newly constructed buildings in Kigali have improved facilities, including elevators. Sidewalks are not common outside of Kigali and do not include curb-cuts.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Domestic violence is common. Although many incidents are not reported or prosecuted, government officials encourage reporting. Call the Rwanda National Police hotline at 112.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Rwanda Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency services.
• Dial 912 for ambulance services.

Ambulance services

Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Ambulance services are:

• Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Ambulance services are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Rwanda. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Rwanda.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Credit card payment is not always available.
• Hospitals often need payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available in Kigali and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Some public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
• English is widely spoken in Rwanda. However, in some areas, medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Rwanda Food and Drug Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Rwanda.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

• U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from traditional or local “healers” and practitioners in Rwanda. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy 

• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Rwanda.
• If you are considering traveling to Rwanda to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Rwanda via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is Rwanda is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

The Virunga Mountains in northern Rwanda are at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude cities.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Rwanda. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from driving outside of cities after dark. They are not allowed to use moto taxis due to their high accident rate.
• Main roads between Kigali and other major towns are generally in good condition.
• Many secondary and unpaved roads do not have shoulders and require four-wheel drive vehicles.
• Police roadblocks are common throughout the country. Travelers may be stopped, and vehicles and luggage searched.
• During the rainy season, from February to May and September to December, flooding and mudslides can make some roads temporarily impassable.
• Street lighting is limited. It is difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and roaming animals.
• Many vehicles are poorly maintained. Headlights are extremely dim or not used.
• Excessive speeding by other drivers is a major risk.
• Professional roadside assistance is not available in Rwanda. 

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 is illegal without a hands-free device.
• After-market tinted window treatments are prohibited on all vehicles. 
• 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 USD. 
• In the event of a traffic accident, call the police at 112 and wait inside the vehicle until they arrive. Follow all police instructions.
• Large crowds often form at the scene of an accident and threaten the safety of the driver. If you feel in danger, go to the nearest police station for safety.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Use only official licensed taxis in Kigali. These are marked with an orange stripe. Confirm the fare before getting in.
• U.S. embassy employees are not allowed to use motorcycle-taxis or mini-bus taxis. They are unsafe due to overloading, reckless driving, inadequate maintenance, and the risk of petty crime. 

Public and commercial transportation

• Use only official city buses in Kigali.
• Local buses, including small cars and larger vans, are poorly maintained and overcrowded.
• Reputable car services are available for hire. Travel agencies and local hotels may be able to arrange private transport on your behalf.
• Visit the website of Rwanda’s national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Rwanda’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

You can monitor weather warnings on the Rwanda Meteorology Agency website.

• Earthquakes – Rwanda is in a seismically active region. It includes Mount Nyiragongo volcano in Virunga National Park.
• Heavy rainfall – The rainy season typically occurs from February to May and September to December. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides in Rwanda.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.