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REMARKABLE RWANDA

Online permits/bookings, discover rwanda.

  • Volcanoes national park
  • Nyungwe national park
  • MOUNTAIN GORILLA TRACKING
  • GOLDEN MONKEYS
  • VISIT OF THE TOMB OF DIAN FOSSEY
  • WALK IN NATURE
  • MUHABURA-GAHINGA
  • BUHANGA ECOLOGICAL PARK (ONE DAY WALK IN NATURE)
  • BUHANGA ECOLOGICAL PARK (PICNIC, INCLUDING CAMPING, FOR A DAY)
  • HIKING IN THE HEART OF THE GAHINGA, MUHABURA, BISOKE AND KARISIMBI VOLCANO CHAINS
  • GUIDED HIKES IN NATURE
  • GUIDED TROPICAL HIKING
  • GUIDED BIRD HIKING
  • GUIDED CANOPY ADVENTURE RIDE
  • GUIDED CONGO-NIL HIKING
  • HIKING-CHIMPANZE WITH GUIDES
  • OTHER PRIMATE HIKES WITH GUIDES

Rwanda’s Tourism Sector On A Full Rebound Post Covid-19

rwanda tourist board

A panel discussion during WTD 2022 celebrations. Officials and players appreciated the recovery process of the tourism and hospitality sector.

Rwanda’s tourism sector is on a path to full recovery more than two years after the Covid-19 pandemic had a major impact on the sector, with more than 80 percent of the players reporting a rebound.

This was revealed on Tuesday during the celebration of World Tourism Day 2022 which was marked on September 27 at Kigali Convention and Exhibition Village (KCEV).

The event, organized by Mastercard Foundation, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Private Sector Tourism Chamber brought together players and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector who shared their experiences.

According to Ariella Kageruka, Head of Tourism and Conservation at RDB, today more that 80% of the business in the sector which were affected by the pandemic are on a path to recovery- a development that gives a positive forecast for the industry.

“The recovery of the sector has been a deliberate effort, working on new innovations and ensuring that we remain operational in different ways. We are happy that even during the pandemic the MICE sector somehow continued to operate,” Kageruka said.

rwanda tourist board

Ariella Kageruka, head of Tourism and Conservation at RDB    

She pointed out Rwanda’s ability to host meetings and conferences even during the pandemic was key in keeping the sector going while efforts by the government and partners ensured that the sector picked itself up as the pandemic subsided.

“If you recall well, even as the Covid-19 pandemic went on, Rwanda managed to host international conferences, concerts and events related to sports, which is was not a coincidence,”

“Rwanda put an effort in the infrastructure and other facilities that enabled that to happen and the partners and organisers of these activities were convinced by what we were doing to ensure the safety and protection of everyone,” Kageruka said.

With the sector recovering steadily, Kageruka said that there are many activities lined up ahead including hosting The Basketball Africa League (BAL) tournament again as well as the Veterans World Cup and UCI Road World Championships in 2025, all of which present a positive outlook for the sector.

Speaking during the event which was celebrated under the theme “Rethink Tourism,” Frank Gisha Mugisha, Director General of Rwanda Chamber of Tourism said that Rwanda is positioning itself to tap into the available opportunities as things get back to normal.

rwanda tourist board

Frank Gisha Mugisa, head of the tourism chamber.

“Before the Covid-19 outbreak, 2019 had proved to be the best year for the sector, with over 165,000 people working in the industry, but all that was set back. Over 18, 000 jobs were affected, including over 8,000 women and youth who lost their jobs,” Mugisha said.

He pointed out that as the sector recovers, players in the industry have to do things differently, factoring in innovation and diversifying into other untapped areas, especially domestic tourism, to be less vulnerable to future shocks.

Théodore Nzabonimpa, who owns Beyond the Gorillas Experience Ltd, a tourism agency, said that there are many opportunities for people to tap into, including trekking of mountains and hills, cultural sites and many more which can increase domestic tourism.

Ngabo Karegeya, the founder of Ibere rya Bigogwe Tourism company presented the opportunities he identified in his home area, where he entices people to visit Bigogwe area and experience traditional lifestyles based on cattle keeping and visit the rock known as Ibere rya Bigogwe.

Sector on a rebound

RDB figures show that in the first six months of this year it earned $11 million in revenues from parks, while in 2021 and 2020 it earned $6 million and $5.9 million, respectively. In 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, the parks generated $21.9 million.

The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted tourism, with numbers dropping by over 70 percent. The numbers now show optimism for a recovery, with revenues increasing by 25% year-on-year, from $131 million to $164 million.

Kageruka said that there is hope that tourism will recover from the effects of Covid-19 quickly, buoyed by the growth in domestic tourism where more Rwandans are showing more interest in touring the country.

In general, tourism is a sector that has already shown that it has a big impact on Rwanda and Rwandans because in 2019, it earned more than $500 million, up from $300 million in 2014. At the same time, the jobs it provided went from 89 thousand to 164,000.

Supporting the hospitality sector to grow

Speaking at the event, Rica Rwigamba, the Country Head, Mastercard Foundation highlighted how investing in the tourism and hospitality sector cannot only contribute to its growth but also provide thousands of jobs to your people, citing ‘Hanga Ahazaza’ as an example.

“Just five years ago, the Mastercard Foundation announced an investment of $50 million with the aim of increasing employment opportunities for young people while expanding the tourism and hospitality sector in Rwanda,”

“Today, we are happy. We are happy because during the past five years, we have worked with 14 organizations represented here today, and with the great support from the Government of Rwanda through the Rwanda development Board to achieve that goal,” Rwigamba said.

She pointed out that they had a bold target of equipping 30,000 young women and men with the skills they need to transition into jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Despite the challenges along the way, Rwigamba said the programme has been able to create the next generation of young leaders in the tourism sector who are now at the forefront of the recovery process.

rwanda tourist board

Rica Rwigamba, country head, Mastercard Foundation.

rwanda tourist board

Michaella Rugwizangoga, Chief Tourism Officer, RDB

rwanda tourist board

Sports journalist Usher Komugisha spoke about the potential of sports tourism.

rwanda tourist board

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Rwanda Travel: Community at Heart of Tourism

Travel Begins at 40 chats with Belise Kariza, Chief Tourism Officer, Rwanda Development Board about Covid, Sustainable Tourism and the future of Rwanda travel. 

How badly has Rwanda been affected by Covid?

There is no denying that Covid-19 has had a devastating impact globally, but the Government of Rwanda’s response has been exemplary. Rwanda has a population of 12 million people and since reporting our first Covid-19 case in mid-March 2020, we have recorded 26,529 cases and sadly, 349 deaths. The Government was quick to respond to the pandemic and take action, vowing to identify every coronavirus case and implementing stringent lockdown measures. We quickly mobilised contact tracers, set up national and regional command posts to track cases and even leveraged the use of technology by using robots and drones in our Covid-19 clinics to take patients’ temperatures and deliver supplies.

I understand that all staff at Kigali International Airport and at RwandAir have been vaccinated against Covid, can you update us on the vaccination programme in Rwanda?

Yes, all staff at Kigali International Airport and RwandAir have been vaccinated against Covid-19 which is a great step towards protecting both the community and visitors alike, whilst also playing our part in ensuring international travel is conducted as safely as possible. To offer an overview, the second phase of its national vaccination rollout is underway and it was developed based on scientific evidence and rooted in the ideals of equity – much like Rwanda’s overall Covid-19 preparedness and response efforts.

BBelise Kariza, Chief Tourism Officer, Rwanda Development Board

In agreement with COVAX, the country’s Ministry of Health defined a clear plan, which had a priority list to ensure that essential workers and people most at risk of infection and COVID-19-related death would receive the vaccine first. The list included frontline healthcare workers, the elderly, individuals with underlying conditions, and people living in crowded settings such as refugees and prison populations. Other essential workers such as those employed in the education and security sectors and those employed in the country’s tourism and hospitality industry have also been vaccinated. We received the first batch of vaccines in early March from the COVAX initiative: 342,960 Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines.

Today, 350,400 people in Rwanda have received their first dose of vaccines and the country has received 247,000 additional doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Administration of the second doses of the vaccine is well underway. Looking longer term, the government aims to have 60% of the population vaccinated by 2022 to meet this target.

Travel to Rwanda is opening to international tourism, how are you ensuring the safety of tourists?

The wellbeing of all travellers is Rwanda’s top priority and the country has put in place robust health and safety guidelines to ensure this. Since August 2020 when we reopened our borders, all travellers, including those in transit, are required to present a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure. For passengers entering Rwanda, a second test is then conducted upon arrival, with results delivered within 24 hours – during which time travellers are required to self-quarantine in designated accommodation.

In terms of tourism activity once in the country, the rangers, guides, vets and all hospitality staff working in the national parks are tested for coronavirus every two weeks and kept in isolation between tests to minimise risks. Rwanda’s commitment to ensuring safety for tourists and locals alike is evident through the way we received the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp in August 2020, which was launched by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The safety stamp is a form of accreditation which recognises the efficiency of the global standardised health and hygiene protocols Rwanda has adopted, protocols that are specifically based on guidelines laid out by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

RwandAir is the first African airline to trial the IATA Travel Pass, how will this work in practice?

Rwandair

The result of this is ultimately to ensure safe and seamless international connectivity. In April 2021 the national airline welcomed a three-week trial plan for customers travelling between Kigali, Rwanda and Nairobi, Kenya. The IATA Travel Pass is a digital application with the sole purpose to help passengers verify their compliance with COVID-19 test or vaccine travel requirements securely and in turn provide governments with the confidence to reopen borders.

The RwandAir customers participating in the trial each had a ‘digital passport’ which verified that their pre-travel COVID-19 test or vaccination meets the requirements of the destination they are travelling to. The aim is for passengers to be able to safely and securely share their test and vaccination certificates with participating authorities and airlines around the world to ensure smooth and seamless travel. We expect this trial to be successful and look forward to having these predictions confirmed so that we can officially implement it into our recovery strategy moving forward.

Gorilla trekking is a key part of Rwanda Travel. What measures have you taken to ensure the safety of tourists, the gorillas and the guides during Covid?

Rwanda is a rare example of how luxury eco-tourism is driving the country’s travel industry to great heights. Thanks to a welcoming environment for investment and a commitment to environmental protection, Rwanda is now home to some of the most spectacular eco-lodges and resorts in East Africa. Rwanda’s national park network is also leading the way in sustainable tourism.

Forest of Hope Guest House

Visiting endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park is an investment in their conservation and in supporting the communities surrounding the park while Rwanda is also home to the oldest protected mountain rainforest in Central Africa, Nyungwe National Park and Africa’s largest protected wetland, Akagera National Park.

Rwanda’s Gishwati-Mukura protected reserve spans across 8,400 acres with lush mist-covered forests, primates, waterfalls and native Umushwati trees. However, Gishwati-Mukura wasn’t always so abundant: in the early 2000s, 98% of the woodland was diminished due to increased human settlement. The Government together with the local community and the Forest of Hope Association, undertook a major restoration effort to bring the area back to health and rewild the forest.

Today, eastern chimpanzees, golden monkeys and side-striped jackals roam freely throughout the vegetation, amongst dozens of varieties of bats, frogs and birds. Carefully curated ecotourism projects such as guided nature hikes, chimp and monkey tracking, bird watching and visits to the waterfalls have helped to fund conservation, whilst providing income and enrichment for the surrounding communities. Gishwati-Mukura is living proof of the impact that communities can have when they pull together, put the planet first and work to restore landscapes.

How does tourism in Rwanda serve to benefit local communities?

Wildlife tourism, conservation and improvement of community livelihoods go hand-in-hand in Rwanda, each one serves to benefit the other, the profits generated get fed back directly into the local communities and the wildlife, creating both jobs and revenue. It has been proven that by turning the endangered mountain gorillas into profit-hubs each gorilla family could turn around $12,000 for an hour’s “work” each day. Consequently, the profits generated by each gorilla family results in the gorillas’ protection and jobs for locals, allowing the numbers of endangered mountain gorillas to recover and the number of Rwandans in secure employment to increase. Tourism currently employs over 164,000 people in Rwanda and its contribution to the GDP in 2019 was over 11%.

Rwanda One Only Nyungwe House

The community is at the heart of Rwanda’s tourism industry. An example of this is SACOLA (Sabyinyo Community Livelihood Association), a non-profit-making association created in 2004 by the population surrounding Volcanoes National Park through the assistance of the Rwanda Development Board and the International Gorillas Conservation Programme (IGCP).

The association started with 34 founder members representing communities of sectors surrounding Volcanoes National Park with the aim to improve the livelihoods of the community surrounding the park and at the same time contribute to the conservation of the park and mountain gorillas.

RDB in partnership with the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) through the IGCP helped the association to acquire a world-class lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge and the association uses the income from the lodge to drive socio-economic development and conservation initiatives. Total revenue from the lodge now stands at over US$3.3 million and has directly benefited some 6,000 households in Musanze District in Rwanda.

Many people are worried about travelling overseas for the foreseeable future, how would you persuade them to visit Rwanda?

Rwanda travel

Rwanda’s tourism industry is adapting to create a safe environment for travellers and operators, in order to thrive in these unprecedented times. The pandemic has reminded us of the power of travel as a force for good in protecting wildlife, supporting local communities and sharing educational and memorable experiences.

We therefore encourage all travel enthusiasts and avid explorers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to venture out and experience the beauty of nature and the adventures that await them in our “Land of a Thousand Hills”.

Rwanda Travel Advice

To learn about Rwanda’s reopening measures, Rwanda travel restrictions and entry requirements go to www.visitrwanda.com/rwanda-reopens/ and www.visitrwanda.com/frequently-asked-questions/ .

More information on RwandAir’s safety protocols can be found here: www.rwandair.com .  

Main Rwanda travel image of Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

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Mark Bibby Jackson

Mark Bibby Jackson

Before setting up Travel Begins at 40, Mark was the publisher of AsiaLIFE Cambodia and a freelance travel writer. When he is not packing and unpacking his travelling bag, Mark writes novels, including To Cook A Spider and Peppered Justice. He loves walking, eating, tasting beer, isolation and arthouse movies, as well as talking to strangers on planes, buses and trains whenever possible. Most at home when not at home.

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Travel Advisory March 29, 2024

Rwanda - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with updates to add area of Level 3.

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

Exercise Increased Caution in:

  • The Rwanda-Burundi border due to armed violence.

Reconsider Travel to:

  • The Rwanda-Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border due to armed violence.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Rwanda.

If you decide to travel to Rwanda:

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Rwanda.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Rwanda- Burundi  Border—Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution The Nyungwe Forest National Park abuts the border with Burundi. Borders may not be clearly marked. It is required to obtain permits from the Rwanda Development Board prior to entry. Relations between Burundi and Rwanda are tense and there have been cross-border incursions and armed violence.

Rwanda- Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)  Border – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Armed groups operate in DRC’s North and South Kivu provinces and Virunga Park which is adjacent to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The area has experienced escalating levels of armed conflict which could spill across poorly marked borders. Permits are required from the Rwanda Development Board prior to entry to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Yes. Yellow fever vaccination if entering from a country where yellow fever is endemic and/or where there is an active outbreak of yellow fever.

Embassies and Consulates

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. and Friday 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 :

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.  

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s  Fact Sheet on Rwanda  for information on U.S.-Rwanda relations. 

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry: 

  • U.S. passports must be valid for six months after the date of entry into Rwanda.  
  • Obtain a 30-day tourist 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 visa in case credit card transactions are not possible at the time of your arrival. Additional information about this process can be found on the Rwandan Immigration website . 
  • Obtain 30-day, 90-day, or 10-year tourist visa through 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 countries listed 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.

Safety and Security

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- Burundi  border, 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 Embassy  Alerts .
  • 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. 

  • 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 the emergency hotline number 112.   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should also contact 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 hotline number is 112. 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 . 
  • 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 more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties :  You are subject to local laws while 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 United States, 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 our  webpage  for further information. 

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

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 to seven years in prison and fines of 500,000 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 Mount Nyiragongo volcano 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 season from February to May and September to December, Rwanda may experience heavy rains that lead to flooding and landslides. You can monitor weather warnings on the  Rwanda Meteorology Agency website .  

Akagera National 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 our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section six of our  Human 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 not common outside of Kigali and do not include curb-cuts. 

Students :  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI 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 in Rwanda.

For emergency services in Rwanda, dial 112 for police, 113 for traffic accidents, or 116 to report abuse by a police officer.

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/Medicaid does 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. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for 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 with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority  to ensure the medication is legal 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 all  vaccinations recommended  by the CDC. While the CDC does not generally recommend the  yellow fever  vaccination 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.

The following diseases are prevalent in  Rwanda : 

  • African Tick-Bite Fever
  • Chikungunya
  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Leptospirosis
  • Tuberculosis (TB)
  • 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 avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list 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 in Kigali and other major cities but health care, especially in rural areas, may be below U.S. standards. 
  • Some public 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 public hospitals 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 back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.  
  • Please review Rwandan rules on medication on 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. 
  • 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.

Travel and Transportation

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 drive vehicles but lack shoulders and become impassible during the rainy season, February to May and September to December, when flooding and mudslides occur. 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 is illegal unless it 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 our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Rwanda’s national tourist office and  national authority  responsible 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 the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Contribution of RDB to Growth of Rwanda Tourism

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is a body responsible for setting and regulating all tourism activities in Rwanda. The RDB runs tourism activities on behalf of the Government of Rwanda and its contribution to the development of tourism can be discussed below:

Rwanda tourism board (RDB) has facilitated tourism activities like Gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee trekking, canopy walk, Golden monkey trekking, Dian Fossey tomb trips, Mountain climbing and colobus monkeys among others. The body sets marketing plans to ensure that the world is made aware of the available potentials. Today, if you compare Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda and democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda takes more visitors. This indicated that Rwanda development board is playing a big role to market Rwanda’s Tourist attraction hence taking a biggest market share.

RDB sets rules and regulations governing tourist activities in Rwanda. This is done to protect the wild life and their habitat ….this is done for continuity hence catering for the future generation.

RDB has reduced cases of poaching in Rwanda which was rampant during the era of Dian Fossey. The board has managed to achieve this by employing armed rangers to patrol all parks 24/ 7.

RDB drafts tourism budget and send it to the ministry of finance for approval. In return the tourism industry gets money which is used to promote Tourism.

Rwanda Development board ensures that all wild animals and birds are in good health and care. Wildlife Doctors are put in all national parks to treat wild animals and gives healthy advises. Primates like Gorillas and chimpanzees get full time health care.

Rwanda Development Board selects capable people to run tourism activities.  Such staff includes rangers, Doctors or health workers and so on.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is the eye and ear of the government in tourism sector. The RDB work on behalf of the government and in case of any problem like increasing poaching, outbreak of diseases, increasing deforestation and so on, RDB reports to the government to find solution.

RDB trains security personal to protect wild animals. They include rangers, tourism police and army among others.

Rwanda Development Board gazette places for wildlife reserves and resettle people who try to encroach the wildlife reserves. Wildlife reserves include National parks, Game reserves and so on.

Rwanda Development board (RDB) promotes tourism in Rwanda through advertisements, organizing tourism events like kwita Izina (Gorilla Naming events), attending world exhibition events and so on.

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Rwanda's president is lauded for transforming the country. But he's also criticized

Juana Summers

Juana Summers

Tinbete Ermyas

Matt Ozug headshot

William Troop

Rwanda has experienced considerable economic growth in the 30 years since the genocide. But some critics say it's come at the cost of certain freedoms.

JUANA SUMMERS, HOST:

I'm Juana Summers in Kigali, Rwanda. Staring at the skyline in the city, you can't miss the tiered dome.

We're walking up to the Kigali Convention Center now, down a winding, tree-lined path. The building is known to be the most expensive building on the African continent, and a project that's quite special to Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

This building is one of the most visible signs of the ways in which the country has transformed under Kagame's decades in power. This week, as the country marked the 30th anniversary of the genocide, he said Rwanda has had a long journey.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

PRESIDENT PAUL KAGAME: But the tremendous progress of our country is plain to see, and it is a result of the choices we made together to resurrect our nation.

SUMMERS: And today, Rwanda has made measurable gains. Life expectancy is up, as is tourism. The roads in Rwanda are paved. There are luxury hotels, tech startups, international investment. But that transformation is only part of Rwanda's story.

PAUL RUSESABAGINA: Today you have two Rwandas. You have the Rwanda for the elite and the other Rwanda.

SUMMERS: That's Paul Rusesabagina, the hotelier-turned-dissident whose story inspired the film "Hotel Rwanda." He is now an outspoken critic of the government.

RUSESABAGINA: You've got some people, many people who have been silenced and others who are silencing them. So Rwanda is rather a boiling volcano which might erupt any time.

SUMMERS: The country's transformation has been uneven and is happening under the tight rule of a president who faces little opposition. All this week, we've been bringing you reporting from Rwanda, and we've been trying to answer some big questions. What does Rwanda tell us about democracy versus authoritarianism? What can we learn about how a country turns the page post-genocide? Is it possible to mandate social reconciliation? To try to understand all of this in this country...

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON: Welcome to Rwanda.

SUMMERS: ...We drive to meet this man.

ALBERT RUDATSIMBURWA: I'm Albert Rudatsimburwa.

SUMMERS: He is a one-time musician and journalist.

RUDATSIMBURWA: Today I do a bit less of journalism but then political analyst. And with the gray hair, it helps, you know?

SUMMERS: He wants to talk over full porcelain mugs of milk.

RUDATSIMBURWA: Well, you have no choice.

SUMMERS: (Laughter) I'm trying to find the words to describe the taste because it's very different than the milk we have in the U.S. It's...

RUDATSIMBURWA: So this is...

SUMMERS: ...Sweeter, almost.

RUDATSIMBURWA: Let's say - let's put it this way. This is, like, a kind of yogurt, but it's natural.

SUMMERS: Milk is a favorite drink in Rwanda and one of the biggest things Rudatsimburwa missed when he was a refugee. His family would find a way to make this fermented milk drink even when they were in exile. He returned to Rwanda in 1994, just after the genocide.

RUDATSIMBURWA: When I came back, it was joy and tears - joy because it had been a journey. To witness the rebirth of a nation - that is the most incredible part.

SUMMERS: That rebirth, he says, would have never happened without Kagame and the ruling political party, the Rwandan Patriotic Front, or RPF. And that's why, he says, Kagame has so much support. He's been reelected three times. Rudatsimburwa is close to the president. In fact, he lives a few doors down from him, and he says Kagame is a skilled leader. He ticks through some of Kagame's accomplishments, like the number of women in government leadership. He says Kagame has visibly improved people's lives.

RUDATSIMBURWA: And the steps were giant steps. You know, I mean, more than 90% of the population has medical care coverage.

SUMMERS: And the country now enjoys massive internet connectivity.

RUDATSIMBURWA: Even the gorillas can take selfies and post them on Instagram in the middle of the jungle, you know?

SUMMERS: Another big step - the country is now home to a number of tech startups, like this one that we visited about an hour south of the capital. That's where a company called Zipline operates a drone delivery service.

There it goes.

The fleet of drones carries blood and other medical supplies to health facilities across the country. The drones look like small planes with white styrofoam bodies and wide wings. And when they take off...

(SOUNDBITE OF DRONE BUZZING)

SUMMERS: ...It looks like a high-tech slingshot. Abdoul Salam Nizeyimana was Zipline's first Rwandan employee. He says the Rwandan government prioritizes innovation.

ABDOUL SALAM NIZEYIMANA: Due to the problems and challenges that we face - most of African countries, at least - is that countries are willing to take bets on some of the things that they think are going to be helpful for the communities or for the country.

SUMMERS: There's also big growth in tourism, which today makes up 11% of Rwanda's GDP. Tourists now fly to the country to go on safari and to see Rwanda's famous gorillas. You can see the country's Visit Rwanda logo on the jerseys of European soccer teams.

ARIELLA KAGERUKA: We started with Arsenal, expanded with PSG. And that's speaking to now people in the world getting to know Rwanda for what it stands for and what it can offer as a country that is open for business and a place where events can be held.

SUMMERS: This is Ariella Kageruka, the head of tourism and conservation for the Rwanda Development Board.

KAGERUKA: Kigali is ranked second as one of the most popular events destination and also a place for sustainable tourism.

SUMMERS: Part of her job is managing the country's public image, which has taken a hit with allegations of human rights abuses.

Many people sometimes express concerns about President Kagame's government and the squashing of political dissent. How do you think about that part of it?

KAGERUKA: You can't avoid it in terms of what, you know, these people are choosing to look at. But it won't stop Rwanda to, you know, remain committed to its development path, to remain committed to what matters more.

SUMMERS: I just want to be clear. Are you saying that those stories are inaccurate or untrue or that it just is a counternarrative? I just want to make sure I understand.

KAGERUKA: I'm telling you what is on the ground. You choose what you believe. The decision is yours - but totally untrue because the most important thing is, do Rwandans believe? Do Rwandans benefit? And are Rwandans happy and continue that path of development, of being united and transformed for good?

LEWIS MUDGE: If these assertions and reporting made by Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, International Journalists, etc. - if they're untrue, why are we not allowed in the country?

SUMMERS: This is Lewis Mudge. He's the Central Africa director for Human Rights Watch. He worked in Rwanda but says he was kicked out by the government in 2018. He describes democracy in Rwanda as a performance and says that political opposition is virtually non-existent.

MUDGE: Instead of continuing to clamp down, we think the RPF should open up the space, should allow real, meaningful opposition to challenge some government policies and to allow the country to, through those challenges, move forward accordingly.

SUMMERS: In the country, it's hard to find anyone who will offer even faint criticism of Kagame. One of the few who does speak openly is Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, an opposition leader who we reached by phone in Kigali.

VICTOIRE INGABIRE UMUHOZA: Kagame was the strongman that we needed after the genocide, but today we need a fresh perspective, fresh blood and fresh new leadership in our country.

SUMMERS: She challenged Kagame in the 2010 election, but she was arrested and imprisoned on terrorism and conspiracy charges. She was pardoned by Kagame in 2018 and released from prison. But she can't leave the country, and she was barred from challenging him again this year.

INGABIRE UMUHOZA: So that is really the problem we have in our country. Citizen - they cannot participate in decision-making. So if they dare to say something to challenge the authorities, they are labeled to be the enemy of Rwanda.

SUMMERS: She also tells me that other political opponents have been imprisoned by the government. Others have disappeared or been assassinated.

MUDGE: I mean, look, she's lucky to be alive.

SUMMERS: Lewis Mudge at Human Rights Watch again.

MUDGE: I think she represents the risk that there is when you challenge the government of Rwanda and President Kagame, and she basically is living with this dagger over her of getting thrown back into prison at any moment.

SUMMERS: Rwanda today, 30 years after the genocide, faces fresh challenges, including a severe humanitarian crisis just at its border. Millions have been forced to flee their homes in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. The U.S. government, as well as the U.N., have accused Rwanda of support for a rebel group that has caused that displacement. Rwanda has denied that. Rights groups and government officials have warned the conflict could spill over into regional war.

MUDGE: I don't prescribe to the fact that things are going to bubble over in Rwanda. I think there is a degree of stability that continues to be maintained by the authoritarian government. However, in the region itself, I think we're very much entering a new epoch in which these regional tensions could spill over into a wider range of conflict.

SUMMERS: We reached out to the Rwandan government for comment. Spokesperson Yolande Makolo sent a reply, which I will read in part. Quote, "Rwandan democracy is delivering progress for Rwandan people. People are free to criticize us. But all the evidence shows that Rwanda is advancing across every sector of society. But, of course, there's more to do, and we're a work in progress," end quote. She also said that Human Rights Watch is not a serious or credible organization when it comes to their work in Rwanda. She went on to say the idea that there are two Rwandans today is ridiculous. Quote, "the Rwandan government is delivering progress for all Rwandans," end quote. The government says there's been progress. But Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza says little has changed from 30 years ago.

INGABIRE UMUHOZA: Because we have the same problem - the lack of democracy, the lack of the respect of human rights, the lack for the rule of law - we still have the same problem.

SUMMERS: President Paul Kagame is running virtually unopposed for reelection in July. Last time, he won with 99% of the vote. He could well be in power for another decade.

(SOUNDBITE OF DE LA SOUL SONG, "GREYHOUNDS (FEAT. USHER)")

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The Houses of Parliament and over Westminster Bridge in London with the sunsetting in the background.

Rwanda bill: what does the latest delay mean?

Flights have been pushed back to summer after the House of Lords spoke out for Afghans and refugees – here’s what to expect over the coming weeks

Rishi Sunak’s plan to fly people seeking asylum to Rwanda this spring appears to have been put back to the summer after House of Lords insisted on changes to the scheme .

On Thursday the prime minister’s spokesperson said the Lords were responsible for any delay after attaching unwanted amendments to the deportation bill.

Pressed on whether spring was still the target, the spokesperson told reporters: “I’m not going to get ahead of the bill passing, which obviously we’ve seen again last night has continued to be held up.”

Below, we examine what the impact will be on the scheme and what will happen next.

Where does the latest delay leave the Rwanda deportation bill?

The bill, with two Lords amendments attached, still has to be voted through both houses before it can be given royal assent after being passed between them three times. In parliamentary jargon, it is stuck in “ping pong”.

It will be voted upon by MPs on Monday before moving to the Lords later that day.

The government says it will resist pressure to offer a compromise to peers, who want to ensure that it allows an independent committee to decide whether Rwanda is a safe country, and exempts Afghans who helped British troops from deportation to Rwanda.

What is ‘ping pong’?

The process by which proposed new laws are sent back and forth between the Houses of Parliament – Commons and Lords – if they do not agree on the wording of a bill.

A coalition of cross-bench, Tory rebel and opposition peers are refusing to back down over two issues – the rights of Afghans and scrutiny of the treatment of refugees in east Africa.

Will the bill pass?

The Lords could hold out for more rounds of ping pong – many peers remain furious with the proposed bill.

Usually there is some form of compromise or the Lords give way to the elected chamber. But in theory it could continue until “double insistence” takes place – both sides refuse to back down over an amendment – and then the bill is lost.

This is extremely rare but not without precedent – it happened to the European Parliamentary Elections Bill 1997–98. Government sources believe the Rwanda bill will go through on Monday.

What happens if and when the bill goes through?

It will be a minor political triumph which Sunak is expected to grab with both hands. Expect a press conference or a Downing Street lectern.

When will planes take off for Rwanda?

Home Office sources say that flights are unlikely to take off before late June, more likely July.

Why the delays?

Asylum seekers are expected to challenge their removal on a case-by-case basis, which could lead to their immediate removal from a flight.

The bill allows challenges if a detainee faces a “real, imminent and foreseeable risk of serious irreversible harm if removed to Rwanda”.

People suffering serious mental or physical conditions, victims of torture and anyone who is shown to be suicidal could launch a challenge on these grounds.

Some delays could be due to the appeals process. Many people subject to removal will have eight days to lodge claims and they will need to present compelling evidence to support their case.

Where the Home Office refused the claim without a right to appeal, permission to appeal will need to be obtained within 23 working days.

What other issues have been expressed about deportations?

Lawyers representing asylum seekers are deeply concerned that there will be a risk of suicide among those told they are being removed to Rwanda.

Unions representing border guards have expressed concern that some claimants may resort to attacking their members in order to avoid being deported.

The ISU union – which represents frontline Border Force and immigration workers – said its members were concerned about potential physical resistance from people being taken into detention for Rwanda flights, and on the plane itself.

Lucy Moreton, an ISU professional officer, said: “Given the undertaking that we will not send anyone with a criminal record to Rwanda, and given the high stakes involved, there is serious concern that migrants may take to assaulting staff as a way to avoid removal.”

Any other obstacles before a flight takes off?

Ministers have not confirmed if they have secured the planes which can deport large numbers of people.

Although the Home Office says there are many options on the table, officials have said they are struggling to confirm airlines willing to facilitate mass deportations.

The Times reported on Tuesday that AirTanker, an aviation company that provides a fleet of 14 airbuses to the RAF to fuel and transport the military, is being lined up to take people to Rwanda.

AirTanker – whose involvement in talks over the Rwanda plan was revealed by the Guardian – declined to comment.

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  4. RDB kicks off Tour Guides training on the Rwanda Liberation History

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  5. Visit Rwanda: 2021 Travel Guide for Rwanda, Africa

    rwanda tourist board

  6. Rwanda Wins Emerging Destination Award as Top 30 Place to Travel in

    rwanda tourist board

COMMENTS

  1. Visit Rwanda

    Tourism. Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda's stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world. It is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, montane rainforest and sweeping plains.

  2. RDB Tourism Regulation Division

    Rwanda Tourism Regulation Regulating the tourism industry and improving quality of service Register Now! Secure & Safe. All information you share on the portal is secured of a secure sockets layer (SSL) supported by the lastest and most secure encryption technologies. ... 2024 Rwanda Development Board ...

  3. Tourism

    Online Permits/Bookings. Application for tourist permit Reschedule advance booking with deposit Application for Research Permit Reschedule Permit Advance booking of tourist permit Confirm booking of tourist permit Transfer tourist permit Extend research permit Application for Personalized tourist package Conference discount (Gorilla Trekking ...

  4. Discover Rwanda

    Safe and Seamless Experiences. Rwanda has received the Global Safety and Hygiene Stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council. To ensure your health and the well-being of those around you while you are visiting Rwanda, we encourage you to following the guidelines for mask-wearing, physical distancing, hand sanitising and other COVID-19 prevention measures.

  5. RWANDA RE-OPENS FOR TOURISM

    Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is pleased to announce the reopening of tourism activities as well as the resumption of international travel for charter flights, effective 17 June 2020. The well-being of all travelers is our top priority and we have therefore put robust health and safety guidelines in place. Together with the private sector, RDB ...

  6. Five ways Rwanda is investing in ecotourism and conservation

    The Government of Rwanda, through the Rwanda Development Board and in collaboration with conservation partners, has achieved success in protecting and increasing the endangered mountain gorilla population and conserving its habitat. ... Rwanda's tourism sector is the country's leading foreign exchange earner. In 2022, the sector earned US ...

  7. Rwanda's Tourism Sector On A Full Rebound Post Covid-19

    Rwanda's tourism sector is on a path to full recovery more than two years after the Covid-19 pandemic had a major impact on the sector, with more than 80 percent of the players reporting a rebound. ... Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Private Sector Tourism Chamber brought together players and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality ...

  8. Tourist Permit

    IMPORTANT INFORMATION! In case of a no-show on the visiting date, please consider your permit as expired. "By purchasing this permit I accept to have read the terms and conditions of the park indemnity agreement".

  9. PDF Annual Report 2020

    RWANDA DEVELOPMENT BOARD ANNUAL REPORT 2020 DOCUMENTING RWANDAÕS CO V ID -19 R ESILIENCE RDB B OARD OF D IRECTOR S Itzhak Fisher is the Founder and General Partner of Pereg Ven - tures, a Nielsen-backed private equity fund Itzhak Fisher - Chairman Faith Keza is the CEO of Irembo Ltd. and Board Member of the National Bank of Rwanda

  10. Tourism in Rwanda

    Tourism in Rwanda is the largest source of foreign exchange earnings in Rwanda. It was projected to grow at a rate of 25% every year from 2013-2018. The sector is the biggest contributor to the national export strategy. ... To further place Rwanda on the world map as a first-class tourism destination, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) ...

  11. Rwanda Travel: Community at Heart of Tourism

    Belise Kariza, Chief Tourism Officer, Rwanda Development Board. In agreement with COVAX, the country's Ministry of Health defined a clear plan, which had a priority list to ensure that essential workers and people most at risk of infection and COVID-19-related death would receive the vaccine first. The list included frontline healthcare ...

  12. Rwanda Tourism

    Rwanda, popularly known as the land of seven hills is one of the tourist destinations in Africa. Led by Rwanda Tourism Board, the Office Rwandais Du Tourisme Et Des Parcs Nationaux (ORTPN), the tourism sector is rapidly developing from the wounds of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. A number of historical sites have been developed.

  13. Rwanda International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  14. Tourist Permit

    Product And Visit Details. Site. Tourist attraction you wish to visit. Product. Activity you want to apply permit for. Date Of Visit. Slots Available. Number of Visitors. Visitor Category.

  15. Contribution of RDB to Growth of Rwanda Tourism

    Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is the eye and ear of the government in tourism sector. The RDB work on behalf of the government and in case of any problem like increasing poaching, outbreak of diseases, increasing deforestation and so on, RDB reports to the government to find solution. RDB trains security personal to protect wild animals.

  16. Destinations

    Akagera National Park. The relatively warm and low-lying plains of Akagera comprise savannah, woodland, wetland and a dozen lakes. In partnership with African Parks, we have reintroduced lions and rhinos, meaning once again visitors can hope to see the Big Five on safari drives. Know more.

  17. Visit Rwanda

    © 2020 Rwanda Development Board

  18. Rwanda's president is lauded for transforming the country. But he's

    SUMMERS: There's also big growth in tourism, which today makes up 11% of Rwanda's GDP. Tourists now fly to the country to go on safari and to see Rwanda's famous gorillas.

  19. Rwanda bill: what does the latest delay mean?

    Rishi Sunak's plan to fly people seeking asylum to Rwanda this spring appears to have been put back to the summer after House of Lords insisted on changes to the scheme. On Thursday the prime ...

  20. Tourism

    Tourism is the largest source of foreign exchange earnings in Rwanda and it is projected to grow at a rate of 25% every year from 2013-18. The sector is the biggest contributor to the national export strategy. Total revenues generated from the sector in 2014 alone was UsD305 Million. The sector has also attracted Foreign Direct Invest- ments ...

  21. Rwanda Reopens for Tourism

    Tourists to Rwanda's national parks are now required to complete a guest registration and indemnity form in advance of their visit and submit the form electronically to the park. Please find the forms to print and sign below: Volcanoes National Park (submit to: [email protected]) Nyungwe National Park (submit to: [email protected])

  22. Contact

    Tourism; Investment; Meet in Rwanda; Gorilla Gram; Practical Information; Media; Book A Trip; ... Email [email protected] [email protected] Phone +250 727 775 170 (or 1415 from within Rwanda) Address. Rwanda Development Board (RDB) KG 220 St, Kigali, Gishushu | Kigali | Rwanda. Social Media. Tourism Investment Meet in Rwanda Arsenal. Destinations ...