Rwanda is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers.
It is an easy introduction to Africa because it is very clean, accessible and safe. Like anywhere there are certain precautions and cultural notes that need to be acknowledged when traveling through Rwanda.
Here are a few tips to keep you safe:
How to Travel Safely in Rwanda
Transportation is unsurpassed in Rwanda.
Motorcycle taxis are a common mode of transportation for locals because they are easy and inexpensive.
For longer distances, buses are used by everyone and even timely for the most part. They even post prices for all tickets so there is no burden in bargaining for a fair ticket price.
It is completely safe for women to travel on motorcycle taxis, buses and on foot. However, it is not safe to travel at night.
Choose safe routes to travel on which may mean paying extra for a taxi instead of walking to your destination.
Wear a money belt!
There are many thieves waiting for opportune moments in busy areas, such as on buses and in markets, when your attention is not on your bag.
They love taking phones and wallets, so don’t leave anything in your pockets and keep your bag closed to discourage wandering hands.
Where to Stay in Rwanda
There are several safe and affordable hotel options for female travelers in Rwanda (just search the Booking.com widget on our homepage!)
The important part of deciding whether to stay at a budget hotel is making sure that the place is fairly fenced in and has a night guard.
Many budget places have simple rooms with communal bathrooms.
I have never had a problem with these types of rooms, but if you are not comfortable then pay a little more to get an en-suite room. It is sometimes worth a good night’s sleep and peace of mind.
The Culture
Culture is a huge factor in Rwanda and should be respected. Here are some things you should know:
- Women do not usually drink in bars
- Public displays of affection such as kissing or crying are frowned upon
- Eating or drinking in public is not permitted unless it is at a restaurant
- It is not appropriate to discuss or ask people about the genocide
Personal Safety in Rwanda
The main obstacle women face is blatant gender inequality. This is usually very challenging for Western women who are used to having many personal freedoms.
It is possible to travel freely around Rwanda with minimal hassle, but Rwandans are not used to seeing Western women, let alone Western women traveling, eating and drinking alone.
It is best to avoid traveling alone but do not feel that there are travel restrictions for women.
If you do not see many Rwandan women where you are, then it is probably not where you should be.
If you do find yourself attracting a lot of attention, especially from Rwandan men, then you need to figure out how to control the situation.
The quicker you tell them you are not interested and wish to be left alone, the quicker you can get out of the spotlight.
It is also wise to wear a ring on your finger and always have an exit strategy.
Also check out these helpful posts by Claire on How to Avoid the Creepers When Traveling Solo and Rease on Single Travelers: Should You Invent a Boyfriend?
In any situation, safety comes first.
Do not be concerned with potentially disrespecting the culture when your safety is at stake. Use your best judgment and simple common sense goes a long way.
Urugendo rwiza! (Safe Travels!)
11 Comments
You have some great tips to stay safe. Like you mentioned I think it is very important to respect the local culture to be a safe traveler in any country.
Kara, these tips are so helpful! I would’ve never thought twice about drinking in a bar.. good to know!
I’ve never had to wear a fake ring in Latin America but this seems like it would be a good time to put one on.
A lot of people probably don’t know much about this area, so using helpful posts like this to prepare for a trip is important.
I’m glad to see that this post is helpful! For clarification, it isn’t the worst thing to be seen in a bar, however, women who frequent bars are also commonly known as prostitutes. Don’t be surprised or offended if you are propositioned at a bar. Western travelers tend to be accepted anywhere in Rwanda but just be aware of the cultural implications.
I was really surprised when I started reading this, because I had no idea that Rwanda would be an “easy introduction to Africa” or a “fantastic destination for female travelers”. I’ve just had preconceived ideas that were totally different. Thanks for this. It opened my eyes.
Haven’t been to Rwanda yet, but dying to go – these look like great tips!
Kara is exaggerating! No need to wear fake ring! Girls drinks in pub…but if u feel drunk, go and sleep because if u get drunk in public places, u will loose credibility & pple will juge you as irresponsible! Smoking in public area is also prohibited.
PS: Bear in mind that plastic bags are banned in Rwanda for environmental reason
Oh yes? Rwanda being one of the safest, the cleanest,,the most friendly & fastest growing economy in Africa ?I live in Dubai and I am planning to visit either late June or early July this year. I even have a plan to look for business aapportunities between Middle East & Rwanda (East Africa)
Thanks for the beautiful Information..much apprecuated??
Thanks for the insightful article on how touring Rwanda can be accessible to solo travelers on budget-friendly tours.
“If you do find yourself attracting a lot of attention, especially from Rwandan men, then you need to figure out how to control the situation.
The quicker you tell them you are not interested and wish to be left alone, the quicker you can get out of the spotlight.
It is also wise to wear a ring on your finger and always have an exit strategy.
Also check out these helpful posts by Claire on How to Avoid the Creepers When Traveling Solo and Rease on Single Travelers: Should You Invent a Boyfriend?”
How does any of these sentences can make a girl feel safe?? Are you kidding?