Rwanda
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest information on recommended vaccinations
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Rwanda including mpox.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Rwanda. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Marburg virus disease (MVD)
The Rwandan Ministry of Health has issued a public update that Marburg virus disease has been confirmed in health facilities in the country. We understand it is present in hospitals in Kigali. Investigations are being carried out to determine the origin of the infection.
The Rwandan Ministry of Health has issued advice on avoiding close contact with symptomatic people, practicing enhanced hygiene measures, and the symptoms of Marburg virus disease to look out for.
To prevent the spread of MVD, all travellers departing Rwanda are asked to complete a symptom-screening questionnaire in advance of exiting the country. See Entry requirements for details.
Latest updates from the Rwandan Ministry of Health can be found on X (formerly Twitter) at Ministry of Health Rwanda @RwandaHealth / X.
Check the latest situation with local authorities before travelling. You can find more information on Marburg virus disease from the WHO, and TravelHealthPro.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Rwanda
Only limited medical facilities are available in Rwanda. If you have a serious accident or illness, you may need to be evacuated by air ambulance to Kenya or South Africa.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Rwanda where some staff speak English.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Rwanda.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.