How Solo Women can Travel Safely in Rwanda and Uganda

Although many countries worldwide have been putting concerted efforts to ensure safety for lone female Travelers, some still encounter challenges while traveling abroad. These challenges range from discrimination and sexual abuse among others.

Uganda and Rwanda are both in the Eastern part of Africa. Both countries register large numbers of tourists visiting the countries annually. This is due to the various interesting tourist attractions like primates tracking, mountain hiking, fishing, game drives, and cultural sites.

Changing the narrative around Uganda and Rwanda travel

When most people think about East Africa, images of wildlife safaris tend to dominate the conversation. However, Uganda and Rwanda are so much more than their iconic gorillas and savannahs. These countries are rich in culture, vibrant in color, and brimming with warm, welcoming people.

One thing that stands out is how often travelers overlook East Africa’s cultural diversity. In Uganda, from the bustling markets and traditional dances performed by the local communities, while on a Rwanda safari, you will be struck by the country’s breathtaking rolling hills and poignant stories of resilience.

For solo women travelers, Uganda and Rwanda offer not just beauty, but safety and accessibility. According to a study by the Solo Female Travelers Club, 86% of women who travel solo report feeling empowered and adventurous during their trips​. Rwanda’s reputation for being one of Africa’s cleanest and safest countries only adds to its appeal.

Transport for solo female travelers in Uganda and Rwanda

Travelers in Uganda and Rwanda use cheap transport means like public commuter buses, taxis, and motorcycles. They use them to move around the cities and other places around the country. There are also more organized and convenient means of transportation. These include Uber, Taxify, SafeBoda, and others although they are more expensive. With all these options you can be sure to move freely and conveniently without any hurdles. In Kigali, buses operate a smart card system called Tap&Go.

If you want to save time, you can charter a flight from Entebbe and Kigali to different national parks and locations in the country. This saves you from many hours of driving, which you can use to do other tour activities. There are daily flights that you can charter.

Combine public transport for short trips with private transfers for longer, more remote destinations to strike the perfect balance between independence and comfort.

Ugandans and Rwandans are welcoming to travelers

One of the biggest surprises for travelers during their trips is just how warm and hospitable Ugandans and Rwandans are toward visitors especially solo travelers. From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed with kindness, whether it the locals’ offering directions in Kampala or a host in Musanze going out of their way to make you comfortable.

It’s a widely recognized trait. Research shows that travelers to Africa often report a sense of connection with locals. A study highlighted in the Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change found that solo women travelers feel particularly adventurous and satisfied in Africa because of the meaningful interactions they experience with local communities​.

Be prepared for immigration and entry Requirements

Luckily, Uganda and Rwanda both offer relatively straightforward entry systems, especially for tourists. For travelers from Europe, Canada, or the U.S., the East African Tourist Visa is a game-changer. This single visa allows access to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, saving time and money for those visiting multiple countries.

However, solo travelers have to double-check visa requirements before departure, as policies can change.  Having digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance is a must. We also recommend keeping contact details for your country’s embassy in case of emergencies—a tip especially important for solo travelers.

Solo female traveler safety during Gorilla Trekking

The gorilla trekking sites in Uganda are very safe and secure for lone female travelers. In addition to that, you can only access the gorilla parks in the company of friendly Guides and Rangers. They’ll take you through the procedures and guidelines for gorilla trekking. They also accompany you to see the gorillas. Should you have some additional load to carry, there are standby porters. These will help you carry the luggage throughout the trek.

Solo female Travelers are free to dress up in any comfortable clothing of their choice while within the major cities of Uganda. However, should they decide to travel to the rural parts of the country or to the small towns, it’s always advisable that they dress up modestly. They should go with something not too tight and revealing since women dress more conservatively in those areas. It’s also a sign of respect for culture.

In conclusion

Solo female Travelers can go ahead and plan their trips to any of the two countries of Uganda and Rwanda. They must be vigilant at all times about their surroundings and keep a low profile.