Rwanda, the smallest country in the African mainland, has left its tragic history of genocide behind and has moved ahead with determination. Today, tourism is Rwanda’s largest source of earning foreign exchange.
This lush, green country of beautiful roads is safe with remarkably low crime rates. Known to be the most corruption-free country in the region, Rwanda is an ideal destination if you find nature and wildlife exciting. While preparing for your trip to Rwanda, be sure to buy travel insurance as protection against any unexpected illnesses, injuries, or accidents that could occur during your trip.
Rwanda Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage can help take care of the extra expenses you might incur because of events beyond your control.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Rwanda?
It could be a close relative’s death back home or a border conflict escalation in Rwanda. Uncertainties you have no control over could cause you to cancel or reschedule your trip.
What you can control is having an insurance plan that can cover the additional expenses you incur for trip cancellation or trip interruption.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Rwanda?
Rwanda trip cancellation insurance includes the following benefits:
- If you need to cancel your trip before departure for reasons covered in the plan, you can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable prepaid costs.
- You can pay a higher premium to get trip cancellation for any reason coverage.
- Some trip cancellation plans cover trip interruption costs. An earlier return because of border violence escalation in Rwanda could cause you to end your trip early, for instance.
- It is also possible to get emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage.
The risks can be massive. The right choice is to buy Rwanda travel insurance and enjoy your vacation with one less thing to worry about. Before you buy your plan, be sure to read the certificate wording so you have an idea of what circumstances are and aren’t covered for trip cancellation.
Things to Do for Travelers in Rwanda
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the long dry spell from mid-May to mid-October. You may get offseason discounts if you go between late October and early May; however, the top two activities listed below may not be possible.
Here’s a list of 5 unique things you can do in Rwanda.
- Gorilla Tracking: We share 98% of our DNA with these big, yet gentle creatures. The lure of watching them up close and personal is number one on travel itineraries for Rwanda. About half of the world’s 1,000 surviving gorillas live here. Once you spot a gorilla family, you can spend an hour with them. Gorilla tracking is expensive at U.S. $1,500 per person. It is money well-spent, though. It contributes to conservation efforts for this endangered species.
- Volcano Trekking: The view from any volcano top in Rwanda is invariably stunning. The most popular trek begins early in the morning from inside the spectacular Volcanoes National Park. The hike can be strenuous as you enter the forest on the Virunga mountain range. If you want a moderate morning trek, try Mount Bisoke. The crater lake at its top is an attraction by itself. If you are a keen trekker, do one of the overnight treks. You camp en route to reach the peak the next morning.
- Spend a Day in Kigali: Done enough nature hugging? Spend a day in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. There’s plenty to do in this thriving city. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where 250,000 victims lie in rest. It is a sobering experience. Witnessing the impact of intolerance highlights the need to be more accepting and inclusive. Go to the Kimironko market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at incredibly low prices. Splurge on Rwandan handicrafts and fabrics. Try traditional Rwandan dresses. Women with their sewing machines will alter them for you then and there. The Inema Art Center, the Niyo Art Gallery, and the Ntarama Church feature high on the tourist attraction list.
- Say Hello to Chimps and Rare Old-World Monkeys: The Nyungwe National Park, a rainforest, is home to many varieties of chimps, as well as to the rare owl-faced monkeys and the black and white colobus monkeys. The Canopy Walkway, a high suspension bridge, offers fantastic views of the valley and the forests that surround it.
- Go Kayaking in Lake Kivu: A sunrise or a sunset from a kayak drifting slowly in Lake Kivu is an unforgettable experience. It will be a moment etched in eternity for you.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Rwanda
A note of caution: Rwanda banned non-biodegradable plastic bags in 2008. Be a responsible international tourist. Don’t carry plastic polyethylene bags.
Random luggage checks at the airport are routine. Make sure you aren't carry anything that isn't allowed. You may attract a fine of up to U.S. $61 or jail term for severe offenses.
Other necessary precautions include:
- Make sure your travel medical insurance covers common diseases and that you’ve taken the appropriate vaccines.
- Rwanda’s healthcare arrangements are basic. Be smart and make sure your travel medical insurance plan includes emergency medical evacuation.
- Wildlife exposure and trekking, the key attractions in Rwanda, come with their inherent risks. Avoid insect bites or tripping during a trek.
- Rwanda is a safe country, even for lone travelers, except for infrequent petty crimes like pickpocketting in markets and other crowded places.
Before You Travel to Rwanda - Do This
- Get a yellow fever vaccination, and carry the certificate.
- Pack plenty of insect repellant and sunscreen lotion.