Rwanda Medical Facilities
In some other countries of Africa, people can enter into their premises without having any travel insurance but one can never do it in Rwanda. This is because in Rwanda it is a govt. law to have health insurance. If someone gets injured or becomes sick unexpectedly, then the medical bills can be sky high in Rwanda. So, it is an important step to prepare travel insurance with 24/7 emergency assistance.
Common diseases like Hepatitis A, Malaria, and Typhoid tend to affect some travelers but there is nothing to worry about because the country has sufficient equipment in 499 health centers, including hospitals, health posts, district hospitals, and more.
Rwanda used to be poor in terms of medical facilities but recently it has improved drastically. However, in terms of serious emergency situations, the patient might need to be transferred to Kenya or South Africa from Rwanda.
The most basic and important step is to remain vigilant to stay healthy while traveling to any country. That means travelers should carry some basic medicines and primary first aid kit in the bag while exploring in Rwanda. In case of any emergency, anyone can dial 112 and ask for medical support.
Lastly, it will be a better idea to avoid the Rwanda border area because in June 2020 a massive outbreak of Ebola cases was confirmed in Goma which is close to Rwanda (DRC) border.
Safety Aspects in Rwanda
Rwanda is considered as one of the safest countries to visit in entire Africa. The crime rate here is very low but not entirely 0. So, crimes like pickpocketing in a crowded area and hired car glass breaking to stealing things may occur occasionally.
For women, traveling solo in Rwanda is safe but it will be a good idea to wear modest clothing to be respected in Rwandan culture.
Getting around in Rwanda for travelers is also safe but they need to be aware of scammers. That means they need to buy tickets from reliable bus companies, not from any tout hanging around the transport terminal.
Hiring a car to roam around Rwanda is a great option but it is advised not to drive at night in remote areas. Even during the day, it will be a better idea to stay focused while driving in Rwanda because in some rural areas, roads are not completely constructed. So, experiencing small bumps, rough roads while driving is pretty common in the rural regions in Rwanda.
Huye
Marked by centuries of glorious and eventful past, today the Huye region is a popular Rwandan tourist destination that signifies the struggle for power and traditions of the region. Established at the dawn of the colonial era, this city features exceptional architectural monuments and most importantly, the National University of Rwanda. There is also the National Institute of Scientific Research among many other educational organizations located in this area. To gain an insight into the academic aspect of Rwanda, a visit to Huye is a must-have plan for your tour list.
Apart from the educational institutes, Huye draws attention due to its gigantic churches, cathedrals, and other Christian establishments. After a casual stroll at these religious monuments, one can pay a visit to the remarkable Ethnographic Museum as well. From centuries-old artifacts to the modern era transitional elements – the museum has a collection worth checking out for enhancing your knowledge on the rich history of Rwanda.
Karongi
Perfect for a romantic getaway or a family trip, Karongi is one of the best places to visit if you prefer a relaxing beach retreat. Located not far from Kigali, Karongi is home to shining lakes, majestic hillsides, and a serene atmosphere. To top it all, there are luxurious vistas, fancy restaurants, and cafes where one can enjoy life and forget about any worldly worries.
The most highlighted activity in Karongi is kayaking. One can choose to go to Napoleon’s Island to dine in and enjoy the blissful nature or enjoy a day with the locals to learn about their lifestyle.
For birdwatchers, Karongi has another surprise up its sleeves – the Mukara Forest that is home to over 150 bird species. A visit to the national park located there is another bonus that will simply add more joy to the trip.
Kigali
Located at the center of Rwanda, Kigali is a resting place for tourists both during the beginning and the end of the tour. Although many often skip exploring this beautiful and impactful city, you may want to keep this on the tour plan to gain an insight into the Rwandan history.
Apart from the stunning architectural monuments, clean appearance, spacious boulevards, and dining areas, the city bears numerous sites reminiscing its past time. One of the most visited trip destinations in Rwanda, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is located here. It consists of burial gardens, paying tribute to the million Rwandas who sacrificed their lives in 1994 in order to build a better nation.
Another popular site in Kigali is the Cultural Village where one can meet with the local artisans, try traditional delicacies, buy souvenirs, and more. The Convention Center is also a great visiting place for shopping and experiencing fine dining.