Many tour companies in Rwanda serve all travelers, including LGBTQ visitors. Your sexuality is considered a private matter, and most people do not pay attention to it. This makes Rwanda welcoming to all tourists, no matter their sexual orientation.
Homosexuality existed in pre-colonial times, but public discussion about it grew in 2009 when the government debated whether to criminalize it. No law was passed, but same-sex marriage remains illegal. Some people in the country believe it is a sin, so it is important to behave respectfully in public to avoid discrimination or misunderstandings.
There was hope for the LGBTQ community in 2011 when the Rwandan government signed a United Nations statement against violence toward LGBTQ people. Rwanda joined nine other African countries in supporting this stand. In 2016, President Paul Kagame said LGBTQ people are not a problem in Rwanda and should not be treated as such.
Even with these positive messages, many people—especially in rural areas—still see same-sex relationships as a taboo. Reports of discrimination or violence are more common in rural regions than in cities, where people are more used to different ways of life.
Rwanda’s open attitude has made it a safer and more comfortable place for LGBTQ visitors, especially when compared to countries like Uganda, where new laws have made things harder for this group. In Rwanda, lodges and hotels accept all guests, including LGBTQ travelers. Over the years, there have been no major cases of people being denied service.
Still, for your safety, it is best to follow a “don’t ask, don’t tell” approach in public. You can also visit the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office website for travel advice specific to LGBTQ visitors, or check the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA) site for up-to-date laws and guidance.
While in Rwanda, you can enjoy various safari activities, such as gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and cultural visits that allow you to spend time with local communities and learn about their traditions and daily life.
Enjoy Rwanda this year and feel welcome.
