Capital: Rigali
Population: 12.21 million
Official language: French, English, Kinyarwanda, Swahili
Time zone: Central Africa Time
Emergency #: 112
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Rwanda is known for its natural landscapes, wildlife, and history. Travellers can hike and observe mountain gorillas in the wild in Volcanoes National Park. The Kigali Genocide Memorial tour is also a popular site for visitors.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Rwanda may differ from your home country. Rwanda has a public healthcare system and a small private sector. Access to healthcare facilities in Rwanda is generally good and basic healthcare services typically meet an adequate standard. Access to specialized care can be limited, as there are only four referral hospitals: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Butare, King Faisal Hospital Kigali and the Rwanda Military Hospital. Public healthcare facilities may lack modern equipment, supplies, and healthcare personnel. Private facilities may meet a higher standard and be able to provide a higher level of care in some cases.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Rwanda typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation to Kenya or South Africa may be required for complex medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Rwanda.
Basic medications are generally accessible in Rwanda through public and private pharmacies. Access to pharmacies can vary by region. Travellers should pack sufficient supply of essential medications for the duration of their trip.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Rwanda’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Main roads in Rwanda are paved and generally well maintained, but conditions vary by region. In the rainy season, roads may flood or become impassable, which may pose a risk and make driving difficult. Seat belts must be worn by drivers and passengers of vehicles at all times. Helmets must be worn by motorcycle drivers and passengers at all times.