Visiting Rwanda which is one of Africa’s minor miracles. If not for anything else, for the fact that this small, landlocked country has been able to not only survive one of the most gruesome episodes of genocide in modern history, but been able to look beyond it, and to a glorious future.
The Land of a Thousand Hills, as this country is affectionately known, provides a myriad of stunning natural sights. From majestic landscapes to equally impressive wildlife, Rwanda is filled with these phenomena. The capital Kigali also offers a modern counterbalance to the rustic charm of the rural areas.
Are you planning to visit this remarkable country soon? Here are a few things to know while visiting Rwanda.
Security in Visiting Rwanda
Security should frankly be one of your least concerns in visiting Rwanda. The country is one of the most peaceful and safest in the whole of Africa. Nevertheless, due to the effects of the genocide, which are still raw, there may be violence in certain area, especially border regions.
Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas such as markets. Your rented cars may also be broken into by local thieves in search of valuables to steal. So, be vigilant and ensure that you don’t expose your valuables too flagrantly. You should also avoid staying too long in crowded areas. Also discussions about the genocide are still highly charged, so it may be best to not let conversations with locals veer towards that direction.
Health
Malaria is fairly common in the country, so it’s best to take precautionary procedures in order to protect yourself from it. Health facilities in the country are still fairly basic, so you may have to pack your own anti-malarial prescriptions before entering the country. You can also bring mosquito repellents, and pack clothes that’ll offer adequate protection to your body.
The water may contain several infections, so you should exercise caution and restraint when swimming or bathing in it. There’s a mild HIV risk in the country, but you should be safe if you do not engage in unprotected sex.
Visa Requirements when Visiting Rwanda
If you’re from Singapore, Mauritius, or The Philippines, you can get into and stay in Rwanda for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens from every other country will typically need a visa before they can be granted entry into the country. However, visas can be obtained on arrival at the country, no matter which country you’re from.
Additionally, you’d need to present a certificate declaring you free of yellow fever, along with a passport, before entry can be granted into the country.
People And Culture
Rwandans are very polite, warm, and friendly, and just like it is in most African societies, Rwandans value greetings a lot. As a matter of fact, it is considered extremely impolite to not respond to greetings. Or offer up one in the country.
The people are very conservative, and they place importance on dressing modestly. So you might have to put away your skimpy and tight clothes in Rwanda.
Understandably, politics is still a sore topic in the conversation. As the people struggle to come to terms with the impact of the genocide. One thing you should avoid doing is asking a Rwandan about their ethnicity. It is illegal, as well as uncomfortable.
