Solo Female Travel in Rwanda

Located in the heart of Africa, Rwanda is a small landlocked country, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" for its sweeping landscapes, mountainous terrain, and stunning wildlife. It is internationally recognized for its remarkable recovery from the genocide of 1994, demonstrating remarkable resilience and rebuilding efforts. Rwanda's crown jewel is the Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, where thrilling gorilla trekking experiences draw in tourists from around the globe. Other attractions include the serene Lake Kivu, vibrant Kigali City and its thriving arts scene, historical sites, and eco-parks. Rwanda delivers an unforgettable fusion of breathtaking natural beauty, profound historical depth, and a rich cultural heritage.

Travel rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

Travel index

Safety:Very safe

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.

Transport:Moderate

You will find navigating around Rwanda relatively moderate. The country's public transportation system, while not top-tier, is gerally reliable and relatively safe, especially in major cities like Kigali. For more remote regions, travel might prove more challenging. English, French, and Kinyarwanda are prominently spoken which can aid in communication with locals. Although roads are in good condition, driving in unfamiliar territory may be tricky, therefore hiring professional drivers is advisable. Rwanda is also remarkably clean and is considered one of the safest countries in Africa.

Things to do:Interesting

Rwanda is packed full of intriguing attractions and activities. You have the opportunity for wildlife viewing experiences unlike any other, such as tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and spotting chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park. The bustling city of Kigali is home to impressive local culture, arts, and crafts, and plenty of opportunities for coffee tasting in numerous coffee shops. There are various beautiful hiking trails for nature-lovers and adventure seekers. Rwanda also boasts stunning landscapes including Lake Kivu and various terraced tea plantations. However, getting around can be slightly challenging and sometimes activities don’t come cheap.

Food:Above average

The cuisine in Rwanda is largely influenced by the traditional rural fare, providing an interesting culinary experience with a pleasant diversity. There's a good mix of native African dishes, with heavy emphasis on beans, corn and potatoes. Vegetarians will particularly enjoy the wide range of delicious plant-based options. There is also a growing international influence on the cuisine in the cities, where you can find everything from Italian to Chinese food. While the food is generally good, it might not seem very adventurous to experienced global foodies. Overall, the food in Rwanda offers a memorable gastronomic experience – nutritious, satisfying, and punctuated with organic goodness.

Budget:Affordable

Rwanda can be reasonably budget-friendly, especially when planned wisely. Eating local food and using public transportation can save a lot. However, the cost of certain activities, like gorilla trekking, can raise your overall expenses. Hostels and budget accommodations are available but the offerings aren't as plentiful as in some other destinations. Overall, it provides a good value for the money spent especially considering the unique experiences it offers.

Is Rwanda worth visiting?

Meet locals in Rwanda

Meet local women in Rwanda who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Viola

Viola

About Me

Hi, I’m Viola and am currently located in Gisenyi for 10 months as a volunteer. I would consider myself to be very open, relaxed and down to earth. I’m a big fan of honesty, art and traveling :)

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Busingye

Busingye

About Me

Passionate about crafting unforgettable journeys, I am a dedicated tour consultant with a zest for curating experiences that transcend the ordinary. With a keen eye for detail and a heart for wanderlust, let's embark on a journey beyond expectations together.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Stay with locals in Rwanda

Stay with local women in Rwanda who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Busingye

Busingye

Kigali City

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Passionate about crafting unforgettable journeys, I am a dedicated tour consultant with a zest for curating experiences that transcend the ordinary. With a keen eye for detail and a heart for wanderlust, let's embark on a journey beyond expectations together.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Upcoming visitors to Rwanda

Connect with upcoming visitors to Rwanda who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Allison

Allison

About Me

Hello, My name is Allison and I am a French teacher in Quebec City, Canada. I am taking this year off to volonteer in Africa. I hope to learn about different cultures and see some breathtaking landscapes.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Explore Rwanda