Is Rwanda Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Rwanda is generally safe for solo female travelers. The country is one of the safest in Africa, with a low crime rate. It's common for women, including foreigners, to move around both day and night without any significant safety issues. However, like any place in the world, it's always recommended to stay vigilant, avoid deserted areas late at night, and research your destinations and accommodations ahead of time for your safety. But overall, Rwanda is very receptive to solo female travelers.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Rwanda?

Safety at night:Safe

Rwanda is generally a safe country to travel in, even at night. However, just like any place, applying general safety precautions are important. Most streets in major cities are well-lit and patrolled by security personnel. Nevertheless, it's better to avoid walking alone in uninhabited and remote areas. Participate in group activities whenever possible, and always inform someone of your whereabouts. Remember, safety first!

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Rwanda, consisting mainly of buses and motor taxis, is generally reliable and safe. Roads are well-maintained and drivers adhere to traffic laws though they may sometimes drive at high speeds. However, care should be taken, especially at night or when using motorcycle taxis. Overcrowding and pickpocketing can be problems in buses, though they are minimal. For most parts, public transportation personnel have been trained to respect and protect women. For maximum security, pre-booked taxis from reputable companies are recommended.

Street harassment:Low

Rwanda, generally, is quite safe for solo female travelers. Street harassment is not a common issue. The locals are respectful and helpful, making it a very comfortable place to travel. It is always, however, recommended to dress modestly in respect of local culture and avoid walking alone late at night.

Petty crimes:Low

Rwanda is generally considered to be one of the safest countries in Africa. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or purse snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets, but they are not prevalent. Always take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, not showing off valuable items, and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

Is Rwanda worth visiting?

Emily

United Kingdom

Rwanda, Family travel

I almost always felt safe whilst travelling through Rwanda. Particularly outside of the tourist areas our white skin and obvious tourist status drew attention but it was almost always friendly. Local hawkers would come up to us but always respectable and accepted when we said no. Kids asking for money were sometimes a bit more persistent and on one occasion a little verbally aggressive but on the whole manageable. I travelled with a male family member who drove a hired car to get us from place to place. You would need to be a very confident driver to manage a self-drive as rules of the road can be non-existent! The majority of the roads between the main tourist destination are relatively well maintained tarmac except the N15 which had a lot of potholes. There are local drivers available though for a good price and this could be an option for a solo traveller/ non confident driver. My itinerary for just over a week in Rwanda was a couple of days in Kigali (recommend the women’s co-operative walking tour and of course the Genocide Memorial Museum is a must) then over a couple of days travel (via King’s Palace) to Nyungwe National Park (a nice trek and canopy walk but incredibly expensive, as are all the national parks, for tourists). Travelled across to Lake Kivu for a couple of days to relax and enjoy a boat trip (stayed at Spa Shallom which was a lovely and peaceful BnB but with a big hotel just down the road to get food and drinks). Then across to Akagera for a couple of days Safari. There was no time on this trip to see the northern park with its Gorillas but also the expense ($1500 per person) put this out of reach on this trip. Although the cost of living is low and this translates to cheap findings in hotels and local food, activities and things focused on tourists can be very expensive. A ticket to Nyungwe park for a local is USD$5 and for a tourist USD$100. Overall I had a great time in Rwanda and could have easily enjoyed a much longer time here. Just be prepared to draw a fair bit of attention if your appearance means you stand out and remember experiences may not be cheap but probably worth it!

Posted: April 6, 2024

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Kigali, Solo travel

I felt safe in Kigali, more so than in any other large city. I noticed that people look out of understandable curiosity, as tourism there is still relatively new. I just looked back at them, said hello and moved on. Men can be annoying, but I never felt unsafe. I travelled around the city by motorcycle taxis and had no problems.

Posted: December 25, 2023

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Kigali, Group travel

It’s a great city with a few nice places to enjoy art. There are some great cafes like the chess cafe. I really enjoyed the Niyo Arts Gallery, where you can enjoy art as well as food and drinks. Another recommendation would be the Kimironko market. You can get anything here! From food, to decorations, to jewelry. Really busy but pretty amazing :)

Posted: November 9, 2023

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Meet locals in Rwanda

Bolla

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Hi My name is Bolla, but known to most as Bella. I am a freelance guide and language tutor. I love meeting people, learning about different cultures, and making friends beyond borders. Cooking, eating, road trips. Football, adventure is my thing.

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Bonne

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My name is Bonne Amie, I'm 35 years old and live in Musanze (RUHENGERI), Rwanda. I am a mom of 2 adorable sons (6 and 8years old). My hobbies are theater, drumming, movies, sport, music, literature and many other things. I like making strong friendship to people from all over the world and to hear interesting things about their countries.

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Kigali

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Musanze

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3 days

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Upcoming visitors to Rwanda

Lisi

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Lisi from Austria starting my Digital Nomad journey. I like writing and storytelling combined with cultural exploration. The world is your school 🤗 We can learn so much from each other. Became more a living in other countries kinda person than traveling around. Slow traveling 🙌🏼

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