The best way to have a good safari in Rwanda is by following the rules and regulations of the country. Here are some important things you should know before you travel:
- Avoid mentioning the genocide tragedy: The genocide was a painful event for many people in Rwanda, and even today, many are still healing from it. You are advised not to bring up this sad history by talking about what happened. There are specific sites where you can learn about the events and the reasons behind the conflict between the Hutu and the Tutsi.
- Eating in public is not allowed: Rwandese are polite people, and they see eating in public as rude. Eating is considered a private matter, and visitors must follow this rule. Even snacks or fruits should be eaten indoors because they are also part of eating.
- Check with your doctor and get vaccinated: Vaccination is important, especially for visitors coming from countries with diseases like yellow fever or COVID-19. Some vaccines may not be required, but it is better to be safe. While you will not be refused entry without certain vaccines, it is advised to take vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Rabies, Malaria, and Meningitis.
- Dress properly: There are recommended clothes for visitors, especially when visiting the savanna areas of Rwanda. These include earth-colored clothes that do not attract insects. In the city, you can wear your nice clothes, but make sure they are not offensive to Rwandan culture. Avoid wearing wild or flashy clothes during dinner in the city; dress in a respectful way.
- Follow the rules in every national park: The rules are made to be followed to protect both visitors and wildlife. You must have a permit to take part in gorilla trekking. You are not allowed to get close to wild animals without a park guide. Children under 15 years old are not allowed to join the trek. Also, loud noise should be avoided because it disturbs the animals.
- Do not carry plastics with you: Rwanda has banned polythene bags to protect the environment. The country is now known as one of the cleanest, so you must avoid bringing plastic bags to help keep it that way.
