Rwanda Travel Advisory & Travel Restrictions Information

Rwanda Travel Advisory

1. Risk levels

Regional risks

Parts of Rusizi and Rubavu districts – Avoid non-essential travel

The following areas of the Rusizi and Rubavu districts should not be visited for non-essential reasons since they are close to rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) that are located along the Rwandan border:

• that portion of the Rubavu District that lies between the intersection of NR11 and NR2 and the DRC border, which includes the town of Gisenyi
• inside a 10-kilometer radius of the land boundary, which includes Rusizi District’s town of Rusizi. Among these are Kamembe Airport and the Rwandan islands on Lake Kivu.

Volcanoes National Park – Exercise a high degree of caution

Due to rebel groups in the DRC and occasionally confusing boundary marks, visitors should proceed with extreme caution in the Musanze district of Volcanoes National Park near the border with the DRC.

2. Safety and security

Border with the Democratic Republic of Congo

As fighting heats up in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in the city of Goma, the situation along the Rwandan–DRC border is becoming increasingly volatile and hard to anticipate. Rumour has it that the Rubavu District is experiencing active warfare, including shelling. The situation in Rubavu district could get even worse if tensions between Rwanda and the DRC escalate.

There may be an unforeseen closure of the Goma-Gisenyi border crossings.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs.

Theft is frequent in:

• hotel rooms
• vehicles
• crowded areas, such as markets

During your trip to Rwanda:

• ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables
• keep your vehicle doors and windows locked at all times

Violent crime

Although rare, violent crime has occurred, namely:

• burglary, especially in Kigali
• armed robberies
• assault

Tourists are usually not targeted, however you could be at the wrong place at the wrong time.

During your trip:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• don’t venture out alone or travel outside major cities after dark
• avoid isolated areas
• if you’re being robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Road safety

Road conditions

The road system is generally good and well maintained in Kigali and on main roads throughout the country. Outside of these areas, most roads are not paved, and driving can be dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting
• lack of traffic signs
• stray livestock
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers do not always respect traffic laws and sometimes drive at excessive speeds. However, speed cameras, present on all main roads, have reduced speeding frequency.

If you choose to drive in Rwanda:

• always drive defensively
• familiarize yourself with your itinerary before you leave
• avoid travelling after dark
• ask about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when you rent a vehicle

Roadblocks

Roadblocks are common throughout the country.

You may be asked for identification and your vehicle and luggage may be searched.

• Make sure your travel documents are up to date
• Do not go through a checkpoint without stopping, even if it appears unattended
• Follow the instructions of police officers

Cybersecurity

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion occur in Rwanda.

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit card information.

• Avoid online shopping on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be especially cautious if you decide to meet someone you met online
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering attractive business opportunities
• Don’t click on suspicious links that ask for your banking information

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur, however a demonstration permit is required.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.

When visiting a national park:

• you must purchase a park permit from Rwanda’s Office of Tourism and National Parks
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• only use established trails

Rwanda’s Office of Tourism and National Parks

Water shortages

Water shortages may occur throughout the country during the long dry season from June to September.

• Plan accordingly
• Keep a supply of water on hand

Public transportation

Shared buses, motorbike taxis and minibuses are the most common forms of public transportation and can be dangerous due to reckless driving.

• Only use licensed public bus and auto taxi companies
• Confirm the fare with the driver before departing
• Don’t use public transportation at night

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

3. Entry and exit requirements

Those in charge of a nation or territory determine who can and cannot enter and leave the country or area. If you do not fulfil the entrance or leave requirements of your destination, the Canadian government will not step in to help you.

The data shown here is sourced directly from the Rwandan government. But it’s subject to change.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you’re travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Rwanda.

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with a “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Visas

• Tourist visa: required – a 30 day visa can be obtained upon arrival or in advance via the Irembo platform
  Work permit: required
• Business visa: required, valid for 90 days and may be extended once. You may obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival. Visa extension requests can be made via the Irembo platform.

East African Tourist Visa

The East African Tourist Visa (EATV) allows for multiple entries to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. It is valid for 90 days and cannot be extended. You may obtain this visa:

• online
• upon arrival
• at the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate

If you get the EATV visa prior to your departure, your first entry point must be the country that issued the visa.

EATV application – Government of Rwanda.

Border closures

The border between Rwanda and Burundi has been closed since January 11, 2024. The border will remain closed until further notice.

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

4. Health

Any potential dangers to your health when travelling are detailed and addressed in this section. You can lessen your chances of being sick by following this advice. These are not the only potential dangers.

If you want specific health recommendations for your trip, it’s recommended to see a doctor or travel clinic at least six weeks before you leave. You should still schedule an appointment even if your departure date is approaching quickly.

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Hepatitis A, Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements, Measles, Meningococcal disease, Hepatitis B, Influenza, COVID-19, Malaria, and Rabies